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Background: This study compares short-term (30 days) and intermediate term (3 years) clinical outcomes in patients with large (≥31 mm) versus small aortic neck diameters (≤28 and ≤31 mm)., Methods: Prospectively collected data from 741 patients who underwent endovascular aortic aneurysm repair were analyzed. Some surgeons have reported the threshold for a large aortic neck for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair to be 28 mm, whereas for others it is 31 mm. Therefore, we classified aortic neck diameter into less than or equal to 28 versus greater than 28 mm; and less than or equal to 31 versus greater than 31 mm. Logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare outcomes., Results: There were 688 patients who had a defined aortic neck diameter: 592 with less than or equal to 28 mm, 96 with greater than 28 mm, 655 with less than or equal to 31 mm, and 33 with greater than 31 mm. The mean follow-up was 25.2 months for less than or equal to 31 mm versus 31.8 months for greater than 31 mm. Clinical characteristics were similar in all groups, except that there were more patients outside the instructions for use in the greater than 31 mm versus less than or equal to 31 mm group (94% vs 44%; P < .0001). There was a significant increase in early type I endoleak for patients with an aortic neck diameter of greater than 31 versus less than or equal to 31 mm (9 [27%] vs 74 [11%]; P = .01); late type I endoleaks (4 [14%] vs 18 [3%]; P = .01); sac expansion (5 [17%] vs 28 [5%]; P = .01); late intervention (5 [17%] vs 23 [4%]; P = .01); and death (9 [31%] vs 48 [8%]; P < .0001). There were no differences in outcomes between the patients with greater than 28 mm aortic neck diameters and the less than or equal to 28 mm diameters. Freedom from late type I endoleak at 1, 2, and 3 years were 96%, 88%, and 88% for patients with a neck diameter of greater than 31 mm versus 97%, 97%, and 97% for a diameter less than or equal to 31 mm (P = .19). The rate of freedom from sac expansion for patients with a diameter greater than 31 mm was 88%, 81%, and 81% at 1, 2, and 3 years versus 99%, 97%, and 92% for a diameter less than or equal to 31 mm (P = .02). Freedom from late intervention for 1, 2, and 3 years for patients with a diameter greater than 31 mm were 91%, 91%, and 91% versus 99%, 97%, and 96% for those with a diameter less than or equal to 31 mm. Survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years for a diameter greater than 31 mm were 83%, 74%, and 68% versus 96%, 92%, and 90% for a diameter less than or equal to 31 mm (P < .001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that patients with a diameter greater than 31 mm had an odds ratio of 6.1 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2-16.8) for mortality, 4.7 (95% CI, 1.4-15.5) for sac expansion, and 4.9 (95% CI, 1.4-17.4) for late type I endoleak., Conclusions: Patients with large aortic neck diameters (>31 mm) had higher rates of early and late type I endoleak, sac expansion, late intervention, and mortality., (Copyright © 2018 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Post-endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) endoleaks and the need for reintervention are challenging. Additional endovascular treatment is advised for type Ia endoleaks detected on post-EVAR completion angiogram. This study analyzed management and late outcomes of these endoleaks., Study Design: This was a retrospective review of prospectively collected data from EVAR patients during a 10-year period. All post-EVAR type Ia endoleaks on completion angiogram were identified (group A) and their early (30-day) and late outcomes were compared with outcomes of patients without endoleaks (group B). Kaplan-Meier analysis was used for survival analysis, sac expansion, late type Ia endoleak, and reintervention., Results: Seventy-one of 565 (12.6%) patients had immediate post-EVAR type Ia endoleak. Early intervention (proximal aortic cuffs and/or stenting) was used in 56 of 71 (79%) in group A vs 31 of 494 (6%) in group B (p < 0.0001). Late type Ia endoleak was noted in 9 patients (13%) in group A at a mean follow-up of 28 months vs 10 patients (2%) in group B at a mean follow-up of 32 months (p < 0.0001). Late sac expansion and reintervention rates were 9% and 10% for group A vs 5% and 3% for group B (p = 0.2698 and p = 0.0198), respectively. Freedom rates from late type Ia endoleaks at 1, 3, and 5 years for group A were 88%, 85%, and 80% vs 98%, 98%, and 96% for group B (p < 0.001); and for late intervention, were 94%, 92%, and 77% for group A, and 99%, 97%, and 95% for group B (p = 0.007), respectively. Survival rates were similar., Conclusions: Immediate post-EVAR type Ia endoleaks are associated with higher rates of early interventions, late endoleaks and reintervention, which will necessitate strict post-EVAR surveillance., (Copyright © 2016 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: A significant number of patients undergo endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (EVAR) outside the instructions for use (IFU). This study will examine various aortic neck features and their predictors of clinical outcomes., Study Design: We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on EVAR patients. Neck features outside IFU were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier and multivariate analyses were used to predict their effect as single features, or in combination, on outcomes., Results: Fifty-two percent of 526 patients had 1 or more features outside the IFU. The overall technical success rate was 99%, and perioperative complication rates were 7% and 12% for IFU vs outside IFU use, respectively (p = 0.04). Type I early endoleak and early intervention rates were 7% and 10% for IFU vs 18% and 24% for outside IFU (p = 0.0002 and p < 0.0001). At a mean follow-up of 30 months, freedom from late type I endoleak and late reintervention at 1, 2, and 3 years for IFU were 99.5%, 99.5%, and 98.4%, and 99.4%, 98%, and 96.8%; vs 98.9%, 98.1%, and 98.1%, and 97.5%, 96.2%, and 95.2% for outside IFU (p = 0.049 and 0.799), respectively. Survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years for IFU were 97%, 93.5%, and 89.8%; vs 93.7%, 88.8%, and 86.3% for outside IFU (p = 0.035). Multivariate analysis showed that a neck angle > 60 degrees had odds ratios for death, sac expansion, and early intervention of 6, 2.6, and 3.3, respectively; neck length < 10 mm had odds ratios of 2.8 for deaths, 3.4 for early intervention, 4.6 for late reintervention, and 4.3 for late type I endoleak., Conclusions: Patients with neck features outside IFU can be treated with EVAR; however, they have higher rates of early and late type I endoleak, early intervention, and late death., (Copyright © 2016 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Imaging surveillance after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is critical. In this study we analyzed compliance with imaging surveillance after EVAR and its effect on clinical outcomes., Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 565 EVAR patients (August 2001-November 2013), who were followed using duplex ultrasound and/or computed tomography angiography. Patients were considered noncompliant (NC) if they did not have any follow-up imaging for 2 years and/or missed their first post-EVAR imaging over 6 months. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare compliance rates in EVAR patients with hostile neck (HN) vs favorable neck (FN) anatomy (according to instructions for use). A multivariate analysis was also done to correlate compliance and comorbidities., Results: Forty-three percent were compliant (7% had no follow-up imaging) and 57% were NC. The mean follow-up for compliant patients was 25.4 months (0-119 months) vs 31.4 months for NC (0-140 months). The mean number of imaging was 3.5 for compliant vs 2.6 for NC (P < .0001). Sixty-four percent were NC for HN patients vs 50% for FN patients (P = .0007). The rates of compliance at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years for all patients were 78%, 63%, 55%, 45%, and 32%; and 84%, 68%, 61%, 54%, and 40% for FN patients; and 73%, 57%, 48%, 37%, and 25% for HN patients (P = .009). The NC rate for patients with late endoleak and/or sac expansion was 58% vs 54% for patients with no endoleak (P = .51). The NC rate for patients with late reintervention was 70% vs 53% for patients with no reintervention (P = .1254). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that patients with peripheral arterial disease had an odds ratio of 1.9 (P = .0331), patients with carotid disease had an odds ratio of 2 (P = .0305), and HN patients had an odds ratio of 1.8 (P = .0007) for NC. Age and residential locations were not factors in compliance., Conclusions: Overall, compliance of imaging surveillance after EVAR was low, particularly in HN EVAR patients, and additional studies are needed to determine if strict post-EVAR surveillance is necessary, and its effect on long-term clinical outcome., (Copyright © 2016 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare with antibiotics with methicillin-resistant microbial coverage in a prospective fashion., Background: Current antibiotic prophylaxis for vascular procedures includes a first generation cephalosporin. No changes in recommendations have occurred despite changes in reports of incidence of MRSA related surgical site infections. Does supplemental anti-MRSA prophylactic coverage provide a significant reduction in Gram-positive or MRSA infections?, Methods: Single center prospective double blinded randomized study of patients undergoing lower extremity vascular procedures from 2011 to 2014. One hundred seventy-eight (178) patients were evaluated at 90 days for surgical site infection. Infections were categorized as early infections less than 30 days of the index procedure and late after 90 days., Results: Early vascular surgical site infection occurred in 7(8.24%) of patients in the Vancomycin arm, and 11 (11.83%) in the Daptomycin arm (P = 0.43). Gram-positive related infections and MRSA infections occurred in 1(1.18%)/0(0%) of Vancomycin patients and 9 (9.68%)/1 (1.08%) of Daptomycin patients, respectively (P < 0.02 and P = 1.00). Readmissions related to surgical site infections occurred in 4(4.71%) in the Vancomycin group and 11 (11.8%) in the Daptomycin group (P = 0.11). Patients undergoing operative exploration occurred in 5 (5.88%) in the Vancomycin group and 10 (10.75%) of the Daptomycin group (P = 0.17). Late infections were reported in 3 patients, 2 of which were in the combined Daptomycin group. Median hospital charges related to readmissions due to a surgical site infection was $50,823 in the combination Vancomycin arm and $110,920 in the combination Daptomycin group; however, no statistical significance was appreciated (P = 0.11)., Conclusions: Vancomycin supplemental prophylaxis seems to reduce the incidence of Gram-positive infection compared with adding supplemental Daptomycin prophylaxis. The Incidence of MRSA-related surgical site infections is low with the addition of either anti-MRSA agents compared with historical incidence of MRSA-related infection.

Background: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is currently performed by various surgical specialties with varying outcomes. This study analyzes different surgical practice patterns and their effect on perioperative stroke and cost., Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 1000 consecutive CEAs performed at our institution by three different specialties: general surgeons (GS), cardiothoracic surgeons (CTS), and vascular surgeons (VS)., Results: VS did 474 CEAs, CTS did 404, and GS did 122. VS tended to operate more often on symptomatic patients than CTS and GS: 40% vs 23% and 31%, respectively (P < .0001). Preoperative workups were significantly different between specialties: duplex ultrasound (DUS) only in 66%, 30%, and 18%; DUS and computed tomography angiography in 27%, 35%, and 29%; and DUS and magnetic resonance angiography in 6%, 35%, and 52% for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively (P < .001). The mean preoperative carotid stenosis was not significantly different between the specialties. The mean heparin dosage was 5168, 7522, and 5331 units (P = .0001) and protamine was used in 0.2%, 19%, and 8% (P < .0001) for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively. VS more often used postoperative drains; however, no association was found between heparin dosage, protamine, and drain use and postoperative bleeding. Patching was used in 99%, 93%, and 76% (P < .0001) for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively. Bovine pericardial patches were used more often by CTS and ACUSEAL (Gore-Tex; W. L. Gore and Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) patches were used more often by GS (P < .0001). The perioperative stroke/death rates were 1.3% for VS and 3.1% for CTS and GS combined (P = .055); and were 0.7% for VS and 3% for CTS and GS combined for asymptomatic patients (P < .034). Perioperative stroke rates for patients who had preoperative DUS only were 0.9% vs 3.3% for patients who had extra imaging (computed tomography angiography/magnetic resonance angiography; P = .009); and were 0.9% vs 3% for asymptomatic patients (P = .05). When applying hospital billing charges for preoperative imaging workups (cost of DUS only vs DUS and other imaging), the VS practice pattern would have saved $1180 per CEA over CTS and GS practice patterns; a total savings of $1,180,000 in this series., Conclusions: CEA practice patterns differ between specialties. Although the cost was higher for non-VS practices, the perioperative stroke/death rate was somewhat higher. Therefore, educating physicians who perform CEAs on cost-saving measures may be appropriate., (Copyright © 2014 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Hepatic hemorrhage can be devastating, especially in patients with underlying hepatic pathology. This is a case report of a 50-year-old man who presented to the emergency room with Stage 3 shock as evidenced by a systolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg, a heart rate of 125 beats per minute, respiration of 32, with delayed capillary refill and agitation. At this time, he was found to have a massive spontaneous intra-abdominal hemorrhage with an advanced stage of amyloidosis with multiple organ malfunctions. The initial diagnosis was based on an abdominal computed tomography scan and the patient was taken expeditiously to a hybrid angiography suite for a celiac angiogram. An intraoperative diagnosis of extravasation from amyloid related vasculopathy was made based on the angiographic appearance of hepatic circulation. Coil embolization of the feeding branch of the bleeder was achieved using the interlock coil system and a completion angiogram was done showing complete cessation of active bleeding. The postoperative phase was uneventful and the patient was discharged home on postoperative day three. His postoperative visit at five months later was unremarkable., (© The Author(s) 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.)

Background: Multiple studies have been conducted that demonstrate the superiority of patch angioplasty over primary closure for carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Patch angioplasty with polytetrafluorethylene patches (ACUSEAL) have shown results comparable to patch angioplasty with saphenous vein and polyester patches. This is a prospective randomized study to compare the clinical outcomes of CEA using ACUSEAL versus bovine pericardium patching (Vascu-Guard)., Methods: Two hundred patients were randomized (1:1) to either ACUSEAL or Vascu-Guard patching. Demographic data/clinical characteristics were collected. Intraoperative hemostasis times and the frequency of reexploration for neck hematoma were recorded. All patients received immediate and 1-month postoperative duplex ultrasound studies, which were repeated at 6-month intervals. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate the risk of restenosis and the stroke-free survival rates., Results: The demographics were similar in both groups, except for a higher incidence of current smokers in the ACUSEAL group and more patients with congestive heart failure in the Vascu-Guard group (P = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively). The mean operative internal carotid artery diameter and the mean arteriotomy length were similar in both groups. The mean hemostasis time was 4.90 min for ACUSEAL patching vs. 3.09 min for Vascu-Guard (P = 0.027); however, the mean operative times were similar for both groups (ACUSEAL 2.09 hr vs. Vascu-Guard 2.16 hr, P = 0.669). The incidence of reexploration for neck hematoma was higher in the Vascu-Guard group; 6.12% vs. 1.03% (P = 0.1183). The incidence of perioperative ipsilateral neurologic events was 3.09% for ACUSEAL patching vs. 1.02% for Vascu-Guard patching (P = 0.368). The mean follow-up period was 15 months. The respective freedom from ≥70% carotid restenosis at 1, 2, and 3 years were 100%, 100%, and 100% for ACUSEAL patching vs. 100%, 98%, and 98% for Vascu-Guard patching (P = 0.2478). The ipsilateral stroke-free rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 96% for ACUSEAL and 99% for Vascu-Guard patching., Conclusions: Although CEA patching with ACUSEAL versus Vascu-Guard differed in hemostasis time, the frequency of reexploration for neck hematomas was more frequent in the pericardial patch group; however, only 1 patient had documented suture line bleeding and the surgical reexploration rate is not likely to be patch related. There were not any significant differences in perioperative/late neurologic events and late restenosis in the 2 groups., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine predictors of percutaneous (PEVAR) access failure requiring conversion to an open approach (OEVAR) during endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR)., Methods: A single-center retrospective review of all EVAR patients from January 2009 through June 2011 with multivariate analysis of clinical and anatomic variables that could impact access outcome was conducted. Target vessel calcification was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on circumferential calcium arc (<⅓, ⅓ to ½, and >½ respectively), dyslipidemia (defined as low-density lipoprotein >130 mg/dL or receiving lipid lowering medication), and obesity (defined as body mass index [BMI] >30)., Results: We investigated 400 access sites for 200 patients who underwent EVAR. The study cohort's characteristics included an average age of 72.8 ± 9.0 years, vessel size of 9.6 ± 1.8 mm, sheath size of 17.1 ± 3.0 Fr, BMI of 27.6 ± 5.3, and estimated glomular filtration rate of 68.5 ± 24.2 mL/min. Comorbidities included dyslipidemia in 129 patients (64.5%) and diabetes in 54 patients (27%). There were 132 OEVAR (66 patients), two mixed OEVAR with contralateral PEVAR (one patient), and 266 (133 patients) PEVAR approaches. Use of PEVAR increased over time (45.5% [2009], 77.8% [2010], and up to 88.5% [2011]; P = .001) while conversions decreased (24.3% [2009], 8.7% [2010], and 4.3% [2011]; P = .001]. More OEVAR patients (35.8%) stayed longer than 3 days compared with 21.1% for PEVAR (P = .028). For the 266 PEVAR approaches, 32 access sites (12.0%) had to be converted. Severely calcified arteries were most predictive of conversion (odds ratio [OR], 36.4; P < .001). Year of procedure (2010; OR, 0.17; P = .001; 2011, OR, 0.20; P = .049), female gender (OR, 3.1; P = .017), moderately calcified arteries (OR, 2.5; P = .085), and age (OR, 2.3 [per decade]; P = .002) were all also significant. Vessel size, sheath size, and BMI were found to be nonsignificant predictors of conversion., Conclusions: PEVAR was found to be safe, reliable, and feasible. Several factors, including learning curve, vessel calcification, age, and female gender predicted conversion of PEVAR to OEVAR., (Copyright © 2013 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

We report on a 52-year-old female patient who presented with a 6-month history of right lower extremity swelling and tenderness. The patient was treated as an outpatient with full anticoagulation, without any improvement. Her medical history was significant for hypertension and high cholesterol, and she had a full coagulopathy profile that was negative for any hypercoagulable syndrome. On examination, the patient was moderately obese, with significant tenderness over the medial aspect of the right groin. A venous duplex examination revealed hypoechoic structure ± acute deep vein thrombosis of right common femoral vein (CFV). A computed tomography of the venous phase revealed an eccentric compression over the medial wall of the right CFV. During surgical exploration, adventitial cystic mucinous disease was enucleated from the medial wall of the right CFV, and the pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis. The postoperative course was uneventful, and all swelling and tenderness were completely resolved. The patient continued to do well, and she had an unremarkable venous duplex evaluation at her 6-month follow-up.

Background: Several studies have demonstrated better outcomes for carotid endarterectomy (CEA) at high-volume hospitals and providers. However, only a few studies have reported on the impact of surgeons' specialty and volume on the perioperative outcome of CEA., Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of CEA during a recent 2-year period. Surgeons' specialties were classified according to their Board specialties into general surgeons (GS), cardiothoracic surgeons (CT), and vascular surgeons (VS). Surgeons' annual volume was categorized into low volume (<10 CEAs), medium volume (10 to <30 CEAs), and high volume (≥30 CEAs). The primary outcome was 30-day perioperative stroke and/or death; however, other perioperative complications were analyzed. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were done to predict the effect of specialty/volume and any other patient risk factors on stroke outcome., Results: Nine hundred and fifty-three CEAs were performed by 24 surgeons: 122 by seven GS, 383 by 13 CT, and 448 by 4 VS. Patients' demographics/clinical characteristics were similar between specialties, except the incidence of coronary artery disease, which was higher for CT (P < .0001). The indications for CEA were symptomatic disease in 38% for VS, 31% for GS, and 23% for CT (P < .0001). The perioperative stroke and death rates were 4.1%, 2.9%, and 1.3% for GS, CT, and VS, respectively (P = .126). A subgroup analysis showed that the perioperative stroke rates for symptomatic patients were 5.3%, 2.3%, and 2.3% (P = .511) and for asymptomatic patients were 3.6%, 3%, and 0.72% (P = .099) for GS, CT, and VS, respectively. Perioperative stroke rates were significantly higher for nonvascular surgeons (GS and CT combined) vs VS in asymptomatic patients (3.2% vs 0.72%; P = .033). Perioperative stroke/death was also significantly lower for high-volume surgeons: 1.3% vs 4.1% and 4.3% for medium- and low-volume surgeons (P = .019) (1.3% vs 4.15% for high vs low/medium combined; P = .005). More CEAs were done for asymptomatic patients in the low/medium-volume surgeons (78%) vs high-volume surgeons (64%; P < .0001) with a stroke rate of 4.6% for low/medium-volume surgeons vs 0.51% for high-volume surgeons (P = .0005). A univariate logistic analysis showed that the odds ratio of having a perioperative stroke was 0.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.13-0.73; P =.008) for high-volume surgeons vs low/medium-volume surgeons, 0.4 (95% CI, 0.16-1.07; P = .069) for VS vs CT/GS and 0.2 (95% CI, 0.06-0.45; P = .0004) when patching was used. A multivariate analysis showed that the odds ratio of having a perioperative stroke for CT VS was 2.1 (95% CI, 0.71-5.92; P = .183); for GS vs VS, 1.8 (95% CI, 0.49-6.90; P = .3709); for low-volume surgeons (vs high-volume) 3.4 (95% CI, 0.96-11.77; P = .0581); medium- vs high-volume surgeons 2.2 (95% CI, 0.75-6.42; P = .1509)., Conclusions: High-volume surgeons had significantly better perioperative stroke/death rates for CEA than low/medium-volume surgeons. Perioperative stroke/death rates were also higher for nonvascular surgeons in asymptomatic patients., (Copyright © 2013 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: It is difficult to maintain a working access for patients on hemodialysis. Despite current Dialysis Outcome Quality Initiatives recommendations of "Fistula First," not everyone qualifies for a fistula, and those patients undergoing the alternative treatment, a graft, can experience graft failure. This study examines factors associated with arteriovenous graft (AVG) patency., Methods: A retrospective analysis was completed for all the patients who had an AVG during 2005 to 2010. Data were collected from electronic medical records, including date of first and subsequent interventions, salvage technique (surgical vs percutaneous), medical comorbidities, and use of antiplatelet medications (aspirin and clopidogrel). Continuous variables were compared with 2 sample t tests, and categorical variables with chi-square/Fisher exact test. Logistic regression was used to determine the odds ratio for risk factors associated with patency. A P value of <.05 was considered significant. All analyses were done using SAS 9.2 (SAS Institute Inc, Cary, North Carolina)., Results: A total of 193 unique patients had an AVG. Of the 193 patients, 64% were female, 83% were hypertensive, and 64% were diabetic. The locations of the grafts were 80% arm, 15% forearm, and 5% thigh. Configurations, including loop and straight, were 34% and 63%, respectively. Comorbidities were not associated with patency. Primary patency was not found to be different with respect to location and configuration of graft and type of intervention. Primary patency for patients taking only aspirin (n = 43) and only clopidogrel (n = 17) were significantly different from patients on a combination of aspirin and clopidogrel (n = 7), with a P = .0051 and P = .0447, respectively., Conclusion: Neither location nor configuration affects the primary patency of AVGs. Aspirin alone is not inferior to aspirin and clopidogrel. Further prospective studies may be warranted to establish a consensus regarding medications and patency with AVGs.

Background: Over the past decade, the treatment of popliteal aneurysms has evolved at our institution from sole operative intervention during the initial part of the study period, to combined surgical and endovascular treatment, and finally to endovascular-centered management in more recent years., Methods: This is a retrospective review of all patients with popliteal aneurysms treated at our institution from 2001 to 2011. Data collection included the indication for intervention, treatment details, interventional patency, limb salvage, perioperative outcome, and midterm survival., Results: Eighty-eight aneurysms (72 patients) were treated during this period. Indications for intervention included symptomatic presentations in 53% (n = 47) and asymptomatic in 47% (n = 41). Treatment included endovascular exclusion in 24, surgical repair in 63 (14 posterior approach and 49 medial approach with bypass and exclusion), and primary amputation in one patient. Nine aneurysms (10.2%) received catheter-directed thrombolysis. Demographics were similar between the two treatment cohorts, except for age with endovascular stenting patients being significantly older (76.0 vs 66.0 years; P = .002). The mean length of stay was 3.9 days vs 9.5 days (P < .001), favoring endovascular treatment. There were no perioperative (30-day) deaths in the endovascular group and one in the surgical cohort. The mean patency follow-up was 21.2 vs 28.3 months. Primary patency did not differ between endovascular and surgically treated patients at 1 year (92.9% vs 83.3%; P = .26) and 3 years (63.7% vs 77.8%; P = .93). No limbs were lost in the endovascular group during the follow-up period of 22.4 months, and one late limb loss occurred in the surgical cohort (mean follow-up, 29.2 months). Endovascular patients had a midterm survival rate of 65% (mean follow-up, 33.9 months), whereas surgical patients experienced a survival rate of 80.8% (mean follow-up, 42.9 months; P = .22)., Conclusions: Endovascular treatment of popliteal aneurysms provides similar short-term patency to that of the traditional gold standard approach with surgical bypass, with shorter hospitalizations in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Further long-term follow-up is required to compare these two treatment modalities for durability to determine the optimal popliteal aneurysm management., (Copyright © 2013. Published by Mosby, Inc.)

We report a case of a pseudoaneurysm of the popliteal artery following arthroscopic knee surgery. Endovascular repair was successfully used as the treatment for this patient and studies have shown this to be a safe alternative to surgery.

Background: Several authorities have proposed stenting of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA)/celiac artery (CA) as the primary treatment for patients with chronic mesenteric ischemia. However, most of these reports had small samples and short follow-up periods., Methods: Eighty-three patients were treated over a 10-year period. Clinical follow-up and duplex ultrasound exams were done to evaluate long-term patency. We used our newly validated duplex criteria to detect ≥70% in-stent stenosis of the SMA and CA. A Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis was used to estimate freedom from in-stent stenosis and late symptom and survival rates., Results: Fifty-four SMA and 51 CA stents were analyzed. The initial technical and clinical success rates were 97% and 96%, respectively, with 2% procedure morbidity and 2% mortality. The primary late clinical success rate was 59%, and the late ≥70% in-stent stenosis rate was 51% at a mean follow-up of 31 months (range, 1-124). Freedom from late recurrent symptoms at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years was 83, 77, 70, 70, and 65%, respectively. Survival rates at the same intervals were 88%, 82%, 70%, 64%, and 51%. Primary patency rates for the whole series were 69%, 48%, 39%, 28%, and 19% at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. Assisted primary patency rates for the whole series were 80%, 61%, 54%, 43%, and 34% at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. Primary patency rates for the SMA at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years were 71%, 47%, 37%, 28%, and 18%, respectively; and assisted primary rates were 82%, 64%, 57%, 45%, and 32%, respectively. Primary patency rates for the CA were 68%, 50%, 40%, 29%, and 21%; and assisted primary rates were 79%, 58%, 52%, 42%, and 36% for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. There were no significant differences in either primary or assisted primary patency between the SMA and CA (P = .7729 and .8169). A secondary intervention was carried out in 30% of the series. Freedom from ≥70% in-stent stenosis for the SMA was 82%, 65%, 56%, 42%, and 34%, and that for the CA was 73%, 59%, 48%, 34%, and 25%, at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively., Conclusions: Stenting of SMA/CA stenosis has high technical/early clinical success rates with a satisfactory late clinical outcome; however, it is associated with high rates of late in-stent stenosis and intervention., (Copyright © 2013 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Several published studies have reported differing results of renal duplex ultrasound (RDU) imaging in detecting significant renal artery stenosis (RAS) using different Doppler parameters. This study is the largest to date to compare RDU imaging vs angiography and assess various published Doppler criteria., Methods: RDU imaging and angiography were both done in 313 patients (606 renal arteries). RAS was classified as normal, <60%, ≥ 60% to 99%, and occlusion. Main outcome measurements included renal peak systolic velocity (PSV), systolic renal-to-aortic ratio (RAR), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and kidney lengths., Results: The mean PSVs and RARs for normal, <60%, and ≥ 60% stenosis were 173, 236, and 324 cm/s (P < .0001), and 2.2, 2.9, and 4.5, respectively (P < .0001). The PSV cutoff value that provided the best overall accuracy for ≥ 60% stenosis was 285 cm/s, with a sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of 67%, 90%, and 81%, respectively. The RAR cutoff value with the best overall accuracy for ≥ 60% stenosis was 3.7, with a sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of 69%, 91%, and 82%, respectively. A PSV of ≥ 180 cm/s and RAR of ≥ 3.5 had a sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of 72%, 81%, and 78% in detecting ≥ 60% stenosis. A PSV of ≥ 200 cm/s with an RAR of ≥ 3.5 had a sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of 72%, 83%, and 78% in detecting ≥ 60% stenosis. A receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the PSV and RAR were better than the EDV in detecting ≥ 60% stenosis: PSV area under the curve (AUC) was 0.85 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-0.88), EDV AUC was 0.71, and RAR AUC was 0.82 (PSV vs EDV, P < .0001; PSV vs RAR, P = .075; EDV vs RAR, P < .0001). A PSV of 285 cm/s or RAR of 3.7 alone were better than any combination of PSVs, EDVs, or RARs in detecting ≥ 60% stenosis. The mean kidney length was 10.4 cm in patients with ≥ 60% stenosis vs 11.0 cm in patients with <60% stenosis (P < .0001). Twelve percent of patients with ≥ 60% stenosis had a kidney length of ≤ 8.5 cm vs 4% in patients with <60% stenosis (P = .0003), and 5.6% (34 of 606) had accessory renal arteries on angiography, with six detected on RDU imaging. The presence of accessory renal arteries, solitary kidneys, or renal fibromuscular dysplasia had no influence on overall accuracy of using PSV values for detecting ≥ 60% stenosis., Conclusions: A PSV of 285 cm/s or an RAR of 3.7 alone can be used in detecting ≥ 60% RAS. Previously published data must be validated in individual vascular laboratories., (Copyright © 2012 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: This study assessed the efficacy of antibiotic-loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads in the treatment of lower extremity vascular surgical site infections (VSSIs)., Methods: This was a retrospective review of all patients with a VSSI of a lower extremity bypass treated with antibiotic-loaded PMMA beads and culture-specific antibiotics during a 4.5-year period. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, site of initial graft infection, symptoms and signs at presentation, initial and additional surgical debridement, wound culture results, type of antibiotic beads implanted, and graft treatment strategy, comprising conduit preservation or in situ replacement, with associated soft tissue management by muscle flap or vacuum-assisted closure. Primary outcome measures included death, recurrent infection, and limb salvage., Results: Forty patients developed 42 extracavitary lower extremity VSSIs (bilateral groin infections in two). Patients were treated according to our treatment algorithm with antibiotic-impregnated PMMA beads. Previous reconstructions included nine aortofemoral bypasses (groin infection only), 20 infrainguinal bypasses, five extra-anatomic bypasses, five femoral interpositions, two combined inflow-outflow bypass procedures, and one patch angioplasty with VSSI. Cultures isolated 59 pathogens (39 gram-positive, 18 gram-negative, 2 Candida spp). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was cultured from 10 VSSs (23.8%) overall and from 27.7% of those patients with attempted graft preservation or in situ reconstructions. Two patients (4.8%) had no growth despite clinical signs of infection. Repeat VSS exploration and culture results led to an average of 1.4 bead replacements before definitive treatment. Final treatment strategy included graft preservation of patent bypasses in 28, partial graft excision with in situ replacement in eight, graft removal only with residual graft remaining at implant site (ie, incorporated anastomotic conduit, 11.9%) in five, and extra-anatomic reconstruction in one. Sartorius muscle flap was performed in 14 groin infections (37.8%). The 30-day mortality was 0%, and limb loss was 7.1% (n = 3). At the median follow-up of 17 months, the limb loss was 21.4% and the recurrent infection rate was 19.4% (seven of 36) in those with attempted graft preservation or in situ replacement., Conclusions: Antibiotic-loaded PMMA beads may serve as an adjunct in the management of VSSIs and may also expand treatment options for graft preservation or in situ reconstruction, with expected recurrent infection rate approaching 20%. Further experience with this adjunct may help elucidate its role in the management of this complicated problem, including the need for bead exchanges, until perigraft cultures are free of microbes., (Copyright © 2012 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Duplex velocity criteria (DVC) to identify in-stent celiac artery (CA) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) stenosis is not well defined. Only one study has been published which concluded that DVC for native SMA stenosis overestimated stenosis in stented SMAs. The purpose of this study was to analyze DVC in detecting CA/SMA in-stent stenosis (ISS)., Methods: Forty-three patients with 62 stents (32 SMAs and 30 CAs), who had concurrent postoperative duplex ultrasound scan and angiograms for significant ISS by DVC were analyzed. A receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis was used to determine optimal DVC (peak systolic velocity [PSV], end-diastolic velocity [EDV], and CA or SMA/aortic systolic ratios) for detecting ≥50% and ≥70% ISS. These were compared to duplex velocities obtained from 97 native CAs and 74 native SMAs with ≥50% stenosis done in the same study period., Results: The mean stented celiac PSV (cm/s), EDV, and systolic ratio for ≥50% ISS were 447, 136, and 7.1 vs 379, 104, and 5.2 for ≥50% native stenosis (P = .067, .106, and < .01). The mean stented SMA PSV, EDV, and ratio for ≥50% ISS were 410, 114, and 6.2 vs 405, 76, and 2.0 for ≥50% native stenosis (P = .885, .037, and < .0001). The PSV cutpoints for detecting ≥50% SMA ISS was 325 cm/s (sensitivity 89%, specificity 100%, and overall accuracy 91%) vs 295 cm/s for ≥50% native SMA and for ≥70% SMA ISS was 412 (sensitivity 100%, specificity 95%, and overall accuracy 97%) vs 400 for native stenosis. The PSV cutpoints for ≥50% CA ISS was 274 cm/s (sensitivity 96%, specificity 86%, and overall accuracy 93%) vs 240 cm/s for ≥50% native stenosis and for ≥70% CA ISS was 363 (sensitivity 88%, specificity 92%, and overall accuracy 90%) vs 320 cm/s for native stenosis (sensitivity 80, specificity 89%, and overall accuracy 85%). ROC analysis also showed that both PSVs and EDVs were equal predictors for SMA and CA ≥50% and ≥70% ISS. For ≥50% SMA ISS, the area under the curve (AUC) for PSV equals 0.91, EDV = 0.81, P = .341. For CA, PSV, AUC = 0.99, EDV = 0.88, P = .063., Conclusions: There is a tendency toward higher velocities in stented CA/SMAs in comparison to native arteries. Caution must be exercised in using duplex velocity cutoffs for native CA/SMA stenosis for stented CA/SMA. Further prospective validation studies are needed., (Copyright © 2012. Published by Mosby, Inc.)

Background: Several published studies with a small sample size have reported differing results of duplex ultrasound (DUS) utilizing different threshold velocities in detecting significant stenosis of superior mesenteric (SMA) or celiac arteries (CA). The present study is based on the largest number of mesenteric duplex/angiography correlations reported to date for the diagnosis of SMA/CA stenosis., Methods: One hundred fifty-three patients (151 SMA and 150 CA) had both DUS and arteriography. Receiver operator curves (ROC) were used to analyze peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), and SMA or CA/aortic PSV ratio in detecting ≥50% and ≥70% stenosis., Results: For SMA (151 arteries: 84 with ≥50% stenosis [54 of which had ≥70% stenosis] based on angiography): the PSV threshold that provided the highest overall accuracy (OA) for detecting ≥50% SMA stenosis was ≥295 cm/s (sensitivity [sens.] 87%, specificity [spec.] 89%, and OA 88%); and for detecting ≥70% SMA, it was ≥400 cm/s (sens. 72%, spec. 93%, and OA 85%). The EDV threshold that provided the highest OA for detecting ≥50% stenosis was ≥45 cm/s (sens. 79%, spec. 79%, and OA 79%); and for ≥70% stenosis was ≥70 cm/s (sens. 65%, spec. 95%, and OA 84%). ROC analysis showed that PSV was better than EDV and SMA/aortic PSV ratio for ≥50% stenosis of SMA (P = .003 and P = .0005). For celiac arteries (150 arteries: 105 with ≥50% stenosis [62 of which had ≥70% stenosis]): the PSV threshold that provided the highest OA for ≥50% stenosis was ≥240 cm/s (sens. 87, spec. 83%, and OA 86%); and for ≥70% stenosis was ≥320 cm/s (sens. 80%, spec. 89%, and OA 85%). The EDV threshold that provided the highest OA for ≥50% stenosis was ≥40 cm/s (sens. 84%, spec. 48%, and OA 73%); and for ≥70% stenosis was ≥100 cm/s (sens. 58%, spec. 91%, and OA 77%). ROC analysis showed that PSV was better than EDV and SMA/aortic PSV ratio for ≥50% stenosis of CA (P < .0001 and P = .0410.), Conclusions: PSV values can be used in detecting ≥50% and ≥70% SMA/CA stenosis and were better than EDVs and ratios. Previously published data must be validated in individual vascular laboratories. Our results will need prospective validation., (Copyright © 2012 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Central venous catheters are commonly utilized to gain vascular access for varied clinical indications. Successful catheter placement requires not only technical expertise but also awareness of the potential complications. In this article, we report a malposition of a central venous catheter in a hemodialysis patient. We review the complications of this catheter misplacement, as well as complications resulting from other central venous catheter malpositions.

Background: The optimal method for predicting when carotid shunting is not necessary during carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is controversial. This study will analyze the correlation of collateral perfusion pressure and the status of contralateral carotid/cerebral collaterals and determine whether preoperative duplex ultrasound/cerebral angiography can predict when CEA can be done without shunting., Methods: Ninety-eight patients were randomized into routine shunting and 102 into selective shunting when the collateral perfusion pressure (systolic carotid stump pressure) was <40 mm Hg during CEA. All patients had preoperative carotid duplex ultrasound and 87 had angiography, the results of which were evaluated for the presence of collateral flow from the contralateral carotid artery or posterior circulation through the anterior and/or posterior communicating arteries., Results: The perioperative stroke rate was 1.5% for the entire group. There was no correlation between preoperative symptoms and the status of the contralateral carotid artery (normal, stenosed, or occluded). The mean collateral perfusion pressure was inversely related to the severity of the contralateral carotid stenosis: 60, 57, 55, 56, and 38 mm Hg for normal, <50% stenosed, 50-69% stenosed, 70-99% stenosed, and occluded arteries, respectively (p = 0.005). There was a direct relation between the number of patients with a collateral perfusion pressure of <40 mm Hg (shunted group) and the severity of the contralateral carotid stenosis: 6 of 62 (10%) for normal carotid, 7 of 43 (16%) for <50% stenosis (OR = 1.82), 12 of 69 (17%) for 50-69% stenosis (OR = 1.97), 3 of 10 (30%) for 70-99% stenosis (OR = 4, CI = 0.81-19.68), and 9 of 13 (70%) for occlusion (OR = 21, CI = 4.98-89.32) (p < 0.0001). None of the patients (0/56) with normal to <70% contralateral carotid stenosis with cross-filling had a collateral perfusion pressure of <40 mm Hg (no shunting was necessary). However, 9 of 17 (47%) patients with <70% contralateral carotid stenosis and no cross-filling had a collateral perfusion pressure of <40 mm Hg (p < 0.0001), whereas 6 of 7 (86%) patients with ≥70% contralateral carotid stenosis and cross-filling versus 2 of 7 (29%) with ≥70% contralateral carotid stenosis and no cross-filling had a collateral perfusion stump pressure of >40 mm Hg (p = 0.1026). Overall, 62 of 63 (98.4%) patients with cross-filling versus 10 of 24 (42%) without cross-filling had a collateral perfusion pressure of ≥40 mm Hg (p < 0.0001)., Conclusions: There was an inverse correlation between collateral perfusion pressure and severity of contralateral carotid stenosis, and patients with severe contralateral carotid stenosis/occlusion were more likely to be shunted. The presence of cross-filling with normal to <70% contralateral carotid stenosis was associated with a collateral perfusion stump pressure of ≥40 mm Hg in 100% of patients for whom shunting was not carried out in our series., (Copyright © 2011 Annals of Vascular Surgery Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is not generally recommended for patients with hostile neck anatomy. This study analyzed the clinical implications of various clinical features of proximal aortic neck anatomy., Methods: Prospectively collected data from 258 EVAR patients using modular devices were analyzed. Patients were classified as having favorable neck anatomy (FNA) or hostile neck anatomy (HNA). HNA was defined as any or all of length of <10 mm, angle of >60°, diameter of >28 mm, ≥50% circumferential thrombus, ≥50% calcified neck, and reverse taper. Univariate, multivariate, and Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare early and late clinical outcomes., Results: FNA was present in 37% and HNA was present in 63%. Clinical and demographic characteristics were comparable. Technical success was 99%. Mean follow-up was 22 months (range, 1-78 months). Perioperative complication rates were 3% for FNA vs 16% for HNA (P = .0027). Perioperative deaths were 0% for FNA and 3% for HNA (P = .2997). Proximal type I early endoleaks (intraoperative) occurred in 9% of FNA vs 22% for HNA (P = .0202). Intraoperative proximal aortic cuffs were used to seal endoleaks in 9% of FNA vs 22% of HNA (P = .0093). At late follow-up, abdominal aortic aneurysm expansion was noted in 6% of FNA vs 7% of HNA (P = .8509). Rates of freedom from late type I endoleaks at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were 97%, 97%, 97%, and 90% for FNA vs 89%, 89%, 89%, and 89% for HNA (P = .1224); rates for late interventions were 95%, 90%, 90%, and 90% for FNA vs 95%, 93%, 91%, and 85% for HNA (P = .6902). Graft patency at 1, 2, and 3 years was 99%, 99%, and 99% for FNA vs 97%, 92%, and 90% for HNA (P = .0925). The survival rates were 93%, 84%, 76%, and 76% for FNA vs 88%, 82%, 74%, and 66% for HNA (P = .2631). Reverse taper was a significant predictor for early type I endoleak (odds ratio [OR], 5.25, P < .0001), reverse taper (OR, 5.95; P < .0001) and neck length (OR, 4.15; P = .0146) were for aortic cuff use; circumferential thrombus (OR, 2.44; P = .0448), and neck angle (OR, 3.38; P = .009) were for perioperative complications., Conclusions: Patients with HNA can be treated with EVAR, but with higher rates of early (intraoperative) type I endoleak and intervention. The midterm outcomes are similar to FNA., (Copyright © 2011 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Few studies have specifically correlated the amount of thrombus in the aneurysm sac and the presence of type II endoleaks (TIIE). This study examined the correlation of preoperative thrombus load and location to the incidence of TIIE and late sac regression., Methods: Prospectively collected data from 266 endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) patients were analyzed. Maximum thrombus thickness (MTT) and percentage of the circumference of the aortic wall lined by thrombus (thrombus-lined aneurysm circumference [TLAC]) were determined from preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) images at four levels: neck, maximum abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) diameter (zone B), zone A (between neck and zone B), and zone C (between zone B and aortic bifurcation). The number of aortic side branches (ASB) was also recorded (inferior mesenteric artery [IMA], accessory renals, lumbar, and middle sacral). Logistic regression was used to determine the association of TIIE with each variable., Results: Thirty-three (12%) early and 32 (13%) late TIIE were noted at a mean follow-up of 22 months (range, 1-87 months). The mean MTT at zone B was 19.7 mm in patients without early TIIE and 18.8 mm in patients without late TIIE vs 14.4 and 17.2 mm in patients with early and late TIIE (P = .0137 and P = .444, respectively). The mean percentage of TLAC was 76% and 75% vs 65% and 64% in patients without vs with early and late TIIE (P = .0329 and P = .044, respectively). There was no correlation of early and late TIIE and thrombus location by zones. The IMA was patent in 7% and 7% of patients without early and late TIIE vs 16% and 15% with TIIE (P = .0367 and P = .077, respectively). The mean number of ASB in patients without (early and late) TIIE was 5.8 and 5.6 vs 5.8 and 7 with endoleak (P = .932 and P = .001, respectively). Univariate analysis showed the following variables decreased the incidence of early TIIE: MTT for zone B (odds ratio [OR] 0.79 for 5-mm increase; P = .014), MTT zone A (OR, 0.78; P = .028), MTT zone C (OR, 0.82; P = .043), and percentage of TLAC (OR, 0.88 for 10% increase; P = .036). For late TIIE: percentage of TLAC (OR, 0.88 for 10% increase; P = .048), and ASB (OR, 1.39 for each additional vessel; P = .001). A multiple regression model showed only ASB (OR, 1.34; P = .009) was a predictor for late TIIE. Four of five patients (80%) with late sac expansion vs 24 of 208 (12%) without expansion had late TIIE (P = .001)., Conclusions: MTT, percentage of TLAC, number of ASB, and patent IMA influenced early TIIE; however, only the number of ASB influenced late TIIE., (Copyright © 2011 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

While undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), dissection occurred in bilateral common and external iliac arteries resulting in acute bilateral hypogastric artery occlusion. Attempts were made to reestablish flow to the left internal iliac artery via retrograde ipsilateral approach without success. A left brachial approach was used to gain access to the left internal iliac artery and kissing angioplasty and subsequent stent placement with 2 self-expanding stents was performed raising the iliac bifurcation to the level of the stent graft to salvage the internal iliac artery.

Background: Carotid artery stenting (CAS) has been advocated as an alternative to redo surgery for patients with post-carotid endarterectomy (CEA) stenosis. This study compares early and late clinical outcomes for both groups., Methods: This study analyzes 192 patients: 72 had reoperation (Group A) and 120 had CAS for post-CEA stenosis (Group B). Patients were followed prospectively and had duplex ultrasounds at 1 month, and every 6 to 12 months thereafter. The perioperative complications (perioperative stroke, myocardial infarction/death, cranial nerve injury) and 4-year end points were analyzed. A Kaplan-Meier lifetable analysis was used to estimate rates of freedom from stroke, stroke-free survival, ≥50% restenosis, and ≥80% restenosis., Results: Demographic/clinical characteristics were comparable for both groups, except for diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease, which were significantly higher in Group B. The indications for reoperations were transient ischemic attacks/stroke in 72% for Group A versus 57% for Group B (P=.0328). The mean follow-up was 33 months (range, 1-86 months) for Group A and 24 months (range, 1-78 months) for Group B (P=.0026). The proportion of early (<24 months) carotid restenosis prior to intervention was 51% in Group A versus 27% in Group B (P=.0013). The perioperative stroke rates were 3% and 1%, respectively (P=.5573). There were no myocardial infarctions or deaths in either group. The overall incidence of cranial nerve injury was 14% for Group A versus 0% for Group B (P<.0001). However, there was no statistical difference between the groups relating to permanent cranial nerve injury (1% versus 0%). The combined early and late stroke rates for Groups A and B were 3% and 2%, respectively (P=.6347). The stroke-free rates at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years for Groups A and B were 97%, 97%, 97%, and 97% and 98%, 98%, 98%, and 98%, respectively (P=.6490). The stroke-free survival rates were not significantly different. The rates of freedom from ≥50% restenosis at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were 98%, 95%, 95%, and 95% for Group A versus 95%, 89%, 80%, and 72% for Group B (P=.0175). The freedom from ≥80% restenosis at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years for Groups A and B were 98%, 97%, 97%, and 97% versus 99%, 96%, 92%, and 87%, respectively (P=.2281). Four patients (one symptomatic) in Group B had reintervention for ≥80% restenosis. The rate of freedom from reintervention for Groups A and B were 100%, 100%, 100%, and 100% versus 94%, 89%, 83%, and 79%, respectively (P=.0634)., Conclusions: CAS is as safe as redo CEA. Redo CEA has a higher incidence of transient cranial nerve injury; however, CAS has a higher incidence of ≥50% in-stent restenosis., (Copyright © 2010 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The use of shunting in carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is controversial. This randomized trial compared the results of routine (RS) vs selective shunting (SS) based on stump pressure (SP)., Methods: Two-hundred CEA patients under general anesthesia were randomized into RS (98 patients) or SS (102 patients), where shunting was used only if systolic SP (SSP) was <40 mm Hg. Clinical and demographic characteristics were comparable in both groups. Patients underwent immediate and 30-day postoperative duplex ultrasound follow-up. Analysis was by intention-to-treat., Results: Of 102 SS patients, 29 (28%) received shunting. Indications for CEA were similar (42% symptomatic for RS; 47% for SS, P = .458). The mean internal carotid artery diameter was comparable (5.5 vs 5.5 mm, P = .685). Mean preoperative ipsilateral and contralateral stenosis was 76% and 38% for RS (P = .268) vs 78% and 40% for SS (P = .528). Mean preoperative ipsilateral and contralateral stenosis was 79% and 56% in the shunted (P = .634) vs 78% and 34% in the nonshunted subgroup of SS patients (P = .002). The mean SSP was 55.9 mm Hg in RS vs 56.2 for SS (P = .915). The mean SSP was 33 mm Hg in the shunted vs 65 in the nonshunted subgroup (P < .0001). Mean clamp time in the nonshunted subgroup of SS was 32 minutes. Mean shunt time was 35 minutes in RS and 33 in SS (P = .354). Mean operative time was 113 minutes for RS and 109 for SS (P = .252), and 111 minutes in shunted and 108 in the nonshunted subgroup (P = .586). Mean arteriotomy length was 4.4 cm for RS and 4.2 for SS (P = .213). Perioperative stroke rate was 0% for RS vs 2% for SS (one major and one minor stroke, both related to carotid thrombosis; P = .498). No patients died perioperatively. Combined perioperative transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke rates were 2% in RS vs 2.9% in SS (P > .99). The overall perioperative complication rates were 8.3% in RS (2 TIA, 3 hemorrhage, 1 myocardial infarction [MI], and 1 asymptomatic carotid thrombosis) vs 7.8% in SS (2 strokes, 1 TIA, 3 hemorrhage, 1 MI, and 1 congestive heart failure; P = .917)., Conclusions: RS and SS were associated with a low stroke rate. Both methods are acceptable, and surgeons should select the method with which they are more comfortable., (Copyright (c) 2010 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Major lower extremity amputations continue to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, yet few recent large series have evaluated factors associated with perioperative mortality and wound complications. The purpose of this study was to examine factors affecting perioperative mortality and wound-related complications following major lower extremity amputation. A retrospective review was conducted of all adult patients who underwent nontraumatic major lower extremity amputations over a 5-year period at a single tertiary-care center in southern West Virginia. Demographic and clinical data, perioperative data, and outcomes were collected and analyzed to identify any relationship with perioperative mortality, as well as wound complications and early revisions (within 90 days) to a more proximal level. Variables were examined using chi-squared, two-tailed t-tests, and logistic regression. Three hundred eighty patients (61% male) underwent 412 major lower extremity amputations during 1999-2003. The initial level of amputation included 230 below-knee (BKA), 149 above-knee (AKA), and one hip disarticulation. Perioperative mortality was 15.5% (n = 59). From a regression model, age, albumin level, AKA, and lack of a previous coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) were independently related to mortality. Patients who did not have a previous CABG were nearly three times more likely to die than those who did (p = 0.038). Overall early wound complications were noted in 13.4% (n = 51). Four factors were independently related to experiencing a 90-day wound complication: BKA, community (rather than care facility) living, type of anesthesia, and preoperative hematocrit >30%. Major lower extremity amputation in patients with peripheral vascular disease continues to be associated with considerable perioperative morbidity and mortality. Even though the surgical procedure itself may not be challenging from a technical standpoint, underlying medical conditions put this group at high risk for perioperative death. Wound-healing problems are frequently encountered and must be minimized to facilitate early mobilization and hospital discharge.

Inferior vena cava filters provide an alternative method of protection against pulmonary embolism in situations where anticoagulation either fails or is contraindicated. These filters are easily placed, with a relatively minor risk of complications. Currently, we know of only one reported case of filter migration using the TrapEase filter. We present a case report of a migrating TrapEase filter, as well as pulmonary embolism after TrapEase filter placement. This complication developed in a 31-year-old trauma patient who developed bilateral popliteal deep vein thromboses and an initial pulmonary embolus while on low molecular weight heparin.

Objective: Carotid endarterectomies (CEAs) with standard polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patching have been shown to have results comparable with those of autogenous vein patching; however, prolonged bleeding through needle holes in PTFE is a commonly recognized problem. This is the first study of CEA using a new hemostatic modified PTFE patch (GORE-TEX) analyzing the early and late outcomes., Methods: Two hundred consecutive CEAs were entered into this protocol. All patients had an immediate postoperative carotid duplex ultrasound scan that was repeated at 1 month and every 6 to 12 months thereafter. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate the stroke-free survival and the risk of restenosis. The mean follow-up was 21 months (range, 1 to 48 months)., Results: The perioperative stroke rate was 1.5% (1% ipsilateral and 0.5% contralateral, two minor strokes and one major stroke) with no perioperative mortality or perioperative carotid thrombosis. The incidence of perioperative transient ischemic attacks was 3.5% (2.5% ipsilateral and 1% contralateral). The mean hemostasis time after completion of the patching was 3 minutes, in contrast to 14 minutes for conventional PTFE (in a previous study). The rates of freedom from ipsilateral strokes at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were 99%, 99%, 99%, and 99%, respectively. The cumulative stroke-free survival rates at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were 98%, 96%, 93%, and 93%, respectively. The rates of freedom from > or =70% restenosis at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years were 97%, 97%, 94%, and 94%, respectively., Conclusions: CEAs with a new modified PTFE patch are safe, have low perioperative stroke rates, are durable, and have an acceptable hemostasis time.

The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the safety and technical success of TrapEase inferior vena cava filter placement via the subclavian vein. As of yet, no reports in the literature have specifically investigated the use of the subclavian vein as a route for deploying TrapEase vena cava filters. Retrospective chart review was conducted of 135 patients with attempted TrapEase inferior vena cava filter placement over a 2-year period. In a majority of cases, the choice of subclavian vein approach was based primarily on surgeon preference. Other circumstances for subclavian vein deployment included cervical immobilization secondary to trauma, desire for concomitant placement of a subclavian long-term central venous access catheter, and patient body habitus limiting exposure to the internal jugular vein. One hundred and thirty-five filters were placed over this 2-year period. The internal jugular vein approach was used in 56 patients, the femoral vein approach in 39 patients, and the subclavian vein approach in 40 patients. Thirty-nine of the 40 TrapEase filter placements using the subclavian vein were successful. Twenty-six were deployed through the right subclavian vein and 14 through the left subclavian vein. The single failed subclavian deployment was due to the inability to pass the guidewire adequately into the inferior vena cava after successful cannulation of the right subclavian vein. The average deployment time for subclavian vein placement was 26 minutes when TrapEase filter placement was the only procedure performed. No insertional complications were encountered, specifically no pneumothoraces confirmed by chest radiography or fluoroscopy. The subclavian vein provides an alternative site of access for the TrapEase inferior vena cava filter. This route is comparable to other alternative methods evaluated both in average deployment time and complication occurrence. Furthermore, the subclavian vein route is valuable in patients with limited central access and where combined long-term central venous catheter placement using the subclavian vein is desirable.

Background: Massive fluid resuscitation often is required for patients with intraabdominal trauma. Subsequently, fascial closure is not always possible in this subset of patients. Under these circumstances, an initial step can be the use of a temporary abdominal closure method. The authors currently use a vacuum-assisted closure to manage the open abdomen for some of their trauma patients. They present their experience over the past 3 years., Methods: From January 2000 to December 2002, 48 trauma patients were treated with temporary abdominal closure using a vacuum-assisted dressing. The ultimate management of the abdominal defect, the serum lactate levels measured in the emergency department, and the fluid balance at the last attempt to accomplish fascial closure were reviewed., Results: Delayed fascial closure was achieved in 23 (71.9%) of 32 patients who survived to discharge (26 of 48, 54.2%). Of the 32 patients who survived to discharge, 9 (28.1%) required an alternative closure, most often a split-thickness skin graft. Of the 16 patients who died before discharge, 8 died within 24 hours after admission. Whereas 5 of the 16 deaths occurred after delayed abdominal closure, 11 patients died without abdominal closure. Emergency department serum lactate levels above 8 mg/dL show a positive correlation with in-hospital mortality (6 of 16 patients; 38%; p = 0.001) and mortality within 24 hours of admission (6 of 8 patients; 75%; p = 0.003). Admission lactate levels were not associated with the type of closure achieved. However, primary closure was associated with a significant decrease in lactate levels during the first 12 hours. Complications included five abdominal abscesses, two enterocutaneous fistulas, and one split-thickness skin graft failure., Conclusions: Patients requiring temporary abdominal closure have a significant in-hospital mortality rate of 33%. Delayed primary closure with vacuum assistance was achieved for 71.9% of the surviving patients. Maintaining a negative or total positive fluid balance of less than 20 L before the last attempted fascial closure improves successful closure rates, as seen in 19 of 22 patients (86.4%). The vacuum-assisted closure technique also enabled successful primary closure for two patients with extreme delay (>8 days). Elevated serum lactate levels are significantly correlated with early and in-hospital mortality. A significant decrease in lactate level during the first 12 hours is associated with achievement of primary closure.