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The aim of this study was to compare the 2-year outcomes of de novo versus postendovascular lesion treatment of femoropopliteal occlusions included in a national, multicenter, observational, prospective registry based on the treatment of critical Limb-threatening IschaeMia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique (LIMBSAVE) registry.From January 2018 to December 2019, 541 patients from 43 centers have been enrolled in the LIMBSAVE registry. Of these patients, 460 were included in the present study: 341 (74.1%) with de novo lesions (DN group) and 119 (25.9%) with postendovascular treatment lesions (PE group). Initial outcome measures were assessed at 30 days after treatment. Furthermore, at the 2-year follow-up, the estimated outcomes of primary patency, primary-assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier curves and compared between groups with the log-rank test.Both groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic data, preoperative risk factors, and clinical presentation. However, compared with DN group, more patients in PE group had a great saphenous vein diameter of less than 3 mm (11.1% vs 21%; P = .007). Intraoperatively, both groups showed similar distal anastomosis sites: below-the-knee popliteal artery (63% DN group, 66.4% PE group) and tibial vessel (37% DN group, 33.6% PE group) (P = .3). The overall mean duration of follow-up was 11.6 months (range, 1-24 months). At the 2-year follow-up, there were no differences between the two groups in terms of primary patency (66.3% DN group vs 74.1% PE group; P = .9), primary-assisted patency (78.2% DN group vs 79.5% PE group; P = .2), secondary patency (85.1% DN group vs 91.4% PE group; P = .2), and limb salvage (95.2% DN group vs 95.1% PE group; P = .9).The LIMBSAVE registry did not show a worsening of overall patency and limb salvages rates at the 2-year follow-up in patients undergoing in situ saphenous bypass after a failed endovascular approach for long femoropopliteal occlusive disease. This finding is in contrast with what has been published in literature.

Background: Identifying sex-related differences/variables associated with 30 day/1 year mortality in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Methods: Multicenter/retrospective/observational study. A database was sent to all the Italian vascular surgeries to collect all the patients operated on for CLTI in 2019. Acute lower-limb ischemia and neuropathic-diabetic foot are not included. Follow-up: One year. Data on demographics/comorbidities, treatments/outcomes, and 30 day/1 year mortality were investigated. Results: Information on 2399 cases (69.8% men) from 36/143 (25.2%) centers. Median (IQR) age: 73 (66–80) and 79 (71–85) years for men/women, respectively (p < 0.0001). Women were more likely to be over 75 (63.2% vs. 40.1%, p = 0.0001). More men smokers (73.7% vs. 42.2%, p < 0.0001), are on hemodialysis (10.1% vs. 6.7%, p = 0.006), affected by diabetes (61.9% vs. 52.8%, p < 0.0001), dyslipidemia (69.3% vs. 61.3%, p < 0.0001), hypertension (91.8% vs. 88.5%, p = 0.011), coronaropathy (43.9% vs. 29.4%, p < 0.0001), bronchopneumopathy (37.1% vs. 25.6%, p < 0.0001), underwent more open/hybrid surgeries (37.9% vs. 28.8%, p < 0.0001), and minor amputations (22% vs. 13.7%, p < 0.0001). More women underwent endovascular revascularizations (61.6% vs. 55.2%, p = 0.004), major amputations (9.6% vs. 6.9%, p = 0.024), and obtained limb-salvage if with limited gangrene (50.8% vs. 44.9%, p = 0.017). Age > 75 (HR = 3.63, p = 0.003) is associated with 30 day mortality. Age > 75 (HR = 2.14, p < 0.0001), nephropathy (HR = 1.54, p < 0.0001), coronaropathy (HR = 1.26, p = 0.036), and infection/necrosis of the foot (dry, HR = 1.42, p = 0.040; wet, HR = 2.04, p < 0.0001) are associated with 1 year mortality. No sex-linked difference in mortality statistics. Conclusion: Women exhibit fewer comorbidities but are struck by CLTI when over 75, a factor associated with short- and mid-term mortality, explaining why mortality does not statistically differ between the sexes.

Background: Identifying sex-related differences/variables associated with 30-day/1-year mortality in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Methods: Multicenter/retrospective/observational study. Database sent to all-the-Italian vascular surgeries to collect all-the¬-patients operated for CLTI in 2019. Acute lower-limb ischemia and neuropathic-diabetic foot not included. Follow-up: 1-year. Data on demographics/comorbidities, treatments/outcome, and 30-day/1-year mortality investigated. Results: Information on 2399 cases (69.8% men) from 36/143 (25.2%) centers. Median (IQR) age: 73 (66-80) and 79 (71-85) yrs for men/women, respectively (p75 (HR3.63, p=.003) associated with 30-day mortality. Age >75 (HR2.14, p

Background Isolated post dissection infrarenal and iliac aneurysm is a rare condition that often requires surgical treatment. Surgical repair should involve the replacement of the aneurysmal segments and a wide fenestration in the residual proximal untreated abdominal aorta. However, in these patients proximal aortic clamping may be challenging. Indeed, infrarenal clamping may hamper an appropriate fenestration in the proximal dissecting lamella, and suprarenal or supraceliac clamping can be dangerous and highly demanding, especially in acute and subacute patients. Here we report our initial experience with a balloon endoclamping technique. Material and Methods Our technique includes 1) direct aortic true lumen catheterization, 2) balloon endoclamping of the proximal thoracic aorta, 3) wide fenestration of the infrarenal aorta followed by external clamp positioning, 4) infrarenal aorta and iliac artery reconstruction. Results Between October 2018 and November 2019, 4 patients (male n = 4, median age 57 years) underwent postdissection iliac aneurysm repair in our institution. All patients had previously undergone emergent thoracic aorta repair. Postoperative courses were uneventful in all cases. At a median FU of 13 months, all patients remain well, with stable diameters in visceral aorta. Conclusions In our initial experience, proximal aortic endoclamping appeared to be a safe technique associated with promising results. This approach may facilitate proximal aortic clamping and allow for a wide aortic fenestration. Further larger clinical trials are needed to validate our preliminary observations.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair with flared iliac limb grafts in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and aneurysmal common iliac arteries (CIAs).This is a multicenter, retrospective, observational cohort study that involves four tertiary referral hospitals between May 1, 2005, and April 30, 2019. Primary outcomes were freedom from aneurysm-related mortality (ARM), and freedom from iliac-related reintervention.We studied 995 aneurysmal iliac limbs in 795 (85.2%) patients who met the inclusion criteria. Median AAA diameter was 55mm (IQR: 51-60). Early mortality occurred in 3 (0.4%) patients. The median of follow-up time was 52 months (IQR: 26-88). Estimated freedom from ARM was 99±0.002% (95% CI: 99-99.9) at 1 year, and 99±0.004% (95% CI: 97.9-99.6) at 5-years. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR=6.4, 95% CI: 1.7-24.0, P=0.006), chronic kidney disease (HR=5.5, 95% CI: 1.4-21.9, P=0.016), and the presence of an aneurysmal left CIA (HR=5.3, 95% CI: 1.0.5-27.4, P=0.044) was associated with ARM. There were 42 (7.3%) late iliac-related events (limb occlusion, N.=5; iliac-related endoleaks, N.=37). Estimated freedom from iliac-related reintervention was 98±0.003% (95% CI: 97-99) at 1 year, and 95±0.01% (95% CI: 92.7-96.7) at 5-years, which was associated with an aneurysmal right CIA (HR=2.2, 95% CI: 1.3-3.9; P=0.005), and age ≥78 years (HR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.01-1.3; P=0.039).EVAR flared iliac limb grafts showed a high rate of freedom from ARM and a low reintervention rate. Owing to these results, it can be a durable and stable alternative for patients aged78 years.

Complex aortic pathology still represents an open issue in contemporary endovascular management, with continuous technological advancement being introduced in practice over time aiming to improve outcomes. Thus far, the dualism between the fenestrated and branched configuration for visceral artery revascularization is yet unsolved, with each approach having its own pros and cons. The inner branched technology for endovascular aneurysm repair (iBEVAR) aims to take the best out of both strategies, offering wide applicability and stable bridging stent sealing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the early outcomes obtained with a single manufacturer custom-made inner-branched endograft in a multicenter Italian experience.All patients consecutively treated with E-xtra design devices in three Italian facilities were enrolled. Anatomic characteristics and perioperative data were analyzed. The main objective was to asses technical and clinical success after iBEVAR. Secondary end points were overall survival, aortic-related mortality, target visceral vessel (TVV) patency, and freedom from target vessel instability during follow-up.From 2016 to 2021, 45 patients were treated with an E-xtra design device revascularizing at least one visceral vessel through an inner branch. The mean age at the time of the procedure was 71.1 ± 9.3 years and 77.8% were males. The total number of target visceral arteries to be bridged with an inner branch was 159. The extent of aortic repair was thoracoabdominal in 91.1% of the cases. Technical success was achieved in 93.3% of the procedures (42/45) with all failures owing to a type I endoleak at final angiography. Each TVV was successfully connected to the graft's main body as planned without complications. Following their intervention, five patients developed spinal cord ischemia and in three of these cases symptoms persisted after discharge (6.7%). At 30 days clinical success was 93.3% (42/45). No death as well as no TVV thrombosis occurred within 30 days from the primary procedures. The mean follow-up was 22.8 ± 14.2 months. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of overall survival and TVV patency at 36 months were 83.9% and 95.9%, respectively.Inner branches seem to be a promising technology in the complex aortic repair landscape, with an applicability ranging from type II thoracoabdominal aneurysm to type I endoleak repair after infrarenal endografting. Whether iBEVAR could offer results comparable with those provided by fenestrated/branched endovascular aneurysm repair in terms of target vessel patency and stent stability is yet to be established and further studies are, therefore, needed.

The aim was to demonstrate contemporary outcomes of in situ saphenous vein bypass using a valvulotome.Analysis of two year outcomes of a multicentre registry based on the treatment of critical Limb Ischaemia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique (LIMBSAVE). Between January 2018 and December 2019, 541 patients in 43 centres were enrolled. In all patients an innovative valvulotome was used. Early outcomes were assessed. Two year outcomes according to Kaplan-Meier curves in terms of patency and limb salvage were evaluated. Associations between patient and procedure variables were analysed with univariable and multivariable analyses.In all cases, a valvulotome was able to lyse the valves. Vein injury due to the in situ technique was 3.5%. Thirty day mortality and major amputation rates were 3% and 0.9%, respectively. Mean follow up was 12.1 months. Two year estimated primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were 69.1%, 81.4%, 86.5%, and 94.5%, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed an association between pre-operative vein diameter3 mm and lower primary patency (hazard ration [HR] 14.3, p.001), primary assisted patency (HR 9.4, p = .002), secondary patency (HR 7.2, p = .007), and limb salvage (HR 7.8, p = .005) rates. Distal anastomosis to a tibial or foot vessel was also associated with lower primary patency (HR 4.8, p = .033), and primary assisted patency (HR 6, p = .011) rates. Use of a suprafascial tributary collateral as a graft was associated with lower primary patency (HR 6.7, p = .013), and primary assisted patency (HR 4.2, p = .042) rates.Vein diameter3 mm, distal anastomosis on a tibial or foot vessel, and use of a suprafascial tributary collateral as a graft were significantly associated with loss of patency and limb loss during follow up.

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) refers to a mirror-image reversal of the internal organ position. The coexistence of abdominal aortic aneurysm and SIT is extremely rare; very short series have been reported; therefore its prevalence has never been estimated. The presence of anatomical anomalies could increase operative risk. The authors describe a case of successfully repaired pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysm with a right retroperitoneal approach in situs inversus totalis.

Background Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is considered the primary option for abdominal aortic aneurysm but the management of concomitant wide or aneurysmal iliac arteries (CIAs) is still controversial. Methods We retrospectively evaluated mid-term results of patients receiving standard EVAR combined with bell-bottom technique (BBT) using Medtronic Endurant endograft between January 2009 and December 2018. Patients were followed up by CT scan performed 1 month after the procedure and by duplex ultrasound annually (with or without contrast medium) followed by CT scan in case of evolution. Results Seventy-one patients (67 males; mean age of 77,1 years) with abdominal aortic aneurysm and wide or aneurysmal common iliac artery (distal landing zone diameter up to 25 mm and length more than 20 mm) were treated with standard EVAR and BBT (107 limbs) using Endurant stent graft. The median aortic diameter was 56,1 mm (31.0-85.0). Technical success was obtained in 100%. Mean procedural time was of 100.1 min. No 30 days’ mortality, renal failure or limb ischaemia occurred. The median follow-up was of 36.56 months (1–136). 5-year aneurysm related mortality was not found. At 5 years, the number of all-cause deaths was seven. The freedom from secondary intervention was 91.6% at 5 years. Three patients (4.4%) were treated for iliac related complications at 5 years: internal iliac artery aneurysm, iliac obstruction, type 1b endoleak, all successfully treated by endovascular technique. Conclusions According with this study BBT using Endurant stent graft is effective and safe with good mid-term results, with low rate of iliac related complications and no aneurysm related mortality.

High-grade carotid stenosis can affect cognition, but the relationship between stenosis correction and cognitive outcome is not fully understood, yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictors of post-operative neurocognitive functioning in patients with symptomatic severe internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA).Patients with history of transient ischemic attack within the past 6 months and ipsilateral high-grade stenosis of ICA undergoing CEA were prospectively enrolled. Cerebral hemodynamics was assessed by means of the cerebral vasomotor reactivity (CVR) to hypercapnia measured through transcranial Doppler ultrasonography. Coloured Progressive Matrices plus Complex Figure Copy Test, and phonemic plus categorical (ca) Verbal Fluency tests were performed to assess right and left hemisphere cognitive functions, respectively. Cerebral hemodynamics and cognitive functions were assessed before and 6 months after CEA.One hundred and eighty-one patients were included. The mean age was 73.2 (6.9) years and 121 (66.9%) were males. At 6 months from CEA, the scores obtained in the cognitive tests exploring the re-vascularized hemisphere's functions and ipsilateral cerebral hemodynamics were improved. At multivariate linear regression analysis, the 6-month change in cognitive performance was inversely associated with age [ß = -0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.22 to -0.12; p .001] and CVR value obtained before CEA on the side of ICA stenosis (ß = -6.25, 95% CI -7.40 to -5.10; p .001).In patients with symptomatic high-grade ICA stenosis, age and cerebral hemodynamic status before CEA predicted the neurocognitive performance changes after surgical stenosis correction.

Background Catastrophic events have been correlated to increased incidence of cardio-vascular events, but no correlation between RAA and seismic activities have ever been investigated. Methods Hospital admissions related to RAA between January 2014 and December 2016 were retrospectively assessed in nine vascular centers of central Italy and correlated with date-matched seismic events. Correlation between RAA presentation and seismic event was first evaluated by Linear Regression analysis. Incidence of RAA events, mortality rate, and type of intervention were analyzed during seismic days (SD) and compared to outcomes during non-seismic days (nSD). Results A total of 376 patients were admitted with a diagnosis of RAA, and a total of 783 seismic events were reviewed. Twenty patients died before intervention (untreated). Open surgery was performed in 72.8%, endovascular treatment in 27.2%. General mortality at 30 days was 26.6% (30.5% for open surgery; 21.6% for endovascular treatment; P=0.24). Linear regression analysis between RAA and seismic periods revealed a significant correlation (slope=0.11±0.04, equation: y = 0.1143 x + 3.034, P=0.02). Incidence of RAA was 0.34 event per day during the entire period, 0.32 during nSD and 0.44 during SD (P=0.006). During seismic days, patients with RAA were older (80.5 years during SD vs. 77 years during nSD, P=0.12), were in poorer general condition at admission and remained untreated more frequently (8% SD vs. 4.7% nSD, P=0.3), and had a higher mortality rate at 30 days (46.2% SD vs. 27.2% nSD, P=0.012). Conclusions During seismic days, the incidence of RAA is higher in comparison to non-seismic days. Patients with rupture during seismic days have a higher risk of death.

The use of the tunneled central venous catheter (CVC) is steadily increasing worldwide as a means of vascular access for hemodialysis. The increased use of these devices, which often outlive the patients, and the extended time they are used are associated with more frequent complications. Among these, one of the emerging complications is that of the “embedded” or stuck catheter. This term refers to when the catheter cannot be removed after detaching the retention cuff. In medical literature, experiences with the removal of stuck catheters are described with the use of several different methods. Currently the most commonly used technique also considered the safest is “endoluminal dilation” also known as Hong's Technique, recently modified by Quaretti and Galli. Below, a new technique using a Vollmar ring is described for removing a stuck catheter as an alternative to Hong's technique, or after a failed attempt at using Hong's technique.

Coral reef aorta (CRA) is a rare condition featured by rock-hard calcifications that grow into the lumen of the thoracoabdominal aorta. Patients suffering from CRA may present severe downstream ischemic and embolic events involving the viscera and the lower limbs. In these patients, open surgical repair is the first choice of treatment. We present a case of a 70-year-old woman with acute presentation of bilateral limb ischemia and abdominal pain. An angio-computed tomography (CT) scan showed the subocclusion of the distal thoracic aorta due to a severe calcified coarctation with intraluminal thrombosis, a chronic occlusion of the superior mesenteric and celiac trunk arteries, a hypertrophic inferior mesenteric artery associated with signs of partial left kidney ischemia. The patient underwent urgent endovascular repair. A soft dilatation of the coarctation using a 7-mm noncompliant balloon was initially performed; a 21-mm conformable thoracic stent graft was subsequently deployed and increasingly dilated using progressively larger angioplasty balloons. The procedure was uneventful and the aortic gradient was reduced to zero. A postoperative CT scan revealed the proper deployment of the graft with no residual stenosis. Endovascular approach with the covered thoracic stent graft could be an accurate technique to treat CRA in the emergency setting. It allows for a primary protected balloon angioplasty and, in case of aortic-graft recoiling, a subsequent placement of covered or uncovered balloon-expandable stent graft can be safely and easily performed.

Background In vascular surgery with aortic cross-clamping, ischemia/reperfusion injury induces systemic haemodynamic and microcirculatory disturbances. Different anaesthetic regimens may have a varying impact on tissue perfusion. The aim of this study was to explore changes in microvascular perfusion in patients undergoing elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair under balanced or total intravenous anaesthesia. Methods Prospective observational study. Patients undergoing elective open infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair received balanced (desflurane + remifentanil, n = 20) or total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA, propofol + remifentanil using target-controlled infusion, n = 20) according to the clinician’s decision. A goal-directed haemodynamic management was applied in all patients. Measurements were obtained before anaesthesia induction (baseline) and at end-surgery and included haemodynamics, arterial/venous blood gases, sublingual microvascular flow and density (incident dark field illumination imaging), peripheral muscle tissue oxygenation and microcirculatory reactivity (thenar near infrared spectroscopy with a vascular occlusion test). Results The two groups did not differ for baseline characteristics, mean aortic-clamping time and requirement of vasoactive agents during surgery. Changes in mean arterial pressure, systemic vascular resistance index, haemoglobin and blood lactate levels were similar between the two groups, while the cardiac index increased at end-surgery in patients undergoing balanced anaesthesia. The sublingual microcirculation was globally unaltered in the TIVA group at end-surgery, while patients undergoing balanced anaesthesia showed an increase in the total and perfused small vessel densities (from 16.6 ± 4.2 to 19.1 ± 5.4 mm/mm2, p

We treated an 89-year-old patient affected by a descending thoracic aorta lesion due to a rib fracture with a penetrating costal stump. An urgent combined thoracic and endovascular surgical approach was performed, removing the rib fragment and positioning an aortic endoprosthesis simultaneously. Postoperative angio-computed tomography scan demonstrated the correct position of the endoprosthesis without any leakage or periaortic hemorrhage.

Il nefrologo, che si confronta con tutti i problemi inerenti all'insufficienza renale, è anche da sempre principale gestore della terapia emodialitica. Per tale motivo tocca al nefrologo, in prima istanza, occuparsi dell'accesso vascolare disponendone l'allestimento, la sorveglianza e la manutenzione a garanzia della possibilità di effettuare il trattamento sostitutivo. Rispetto a quanto avviene in altri paesi, in Italia l'attività dell'accesso non è ad oggi standardizzata né strutturata; ciascun centro dialisi si organizza in funzione delle capacità dei nefrologi ivi operanti e delle collaborazioni di altri specialisti presenti nell'ospedale, spesso senza un percorso strutturato e con modalità di intervento per lo più fondate sulla disponibilità personale e sul volontarismo. Partendo dalla storia dell'accesso vascolare in Italia, abbiamo individuato tre tipologie organizzative che correlano, da un lato, con il contesto storico in cui sono sorte e, dall'altro, con il progresso, in termini di dispositivi medici e competenze specialistiche, che ha via via modificato i comportamenti. Il modello organizzativo “primordiale” vede il nefrologo confezionare e correggere personalmente gli accessi disponibili in quell'epoca. Nel modello polispecialistico, che nasce successivamente, il nefrologo inizia a delegare ad alti specialisti, più competenti sul versante tecnico, singole fasi del lavoro; resta colui che inizia il percorso e detta i tempi ma perde, talora, il controllo della gestione complessiva. Nel modello strutturale integrato, ideale ma non ancora integralmente realizzabile, il chirurgo dedicato all'accesso dialitico ed il radiologo interventista interagiscono da vicino con il nefrologo, che funge da regista, coordinatore e amministratore di tutto il processo di gestione dell'accesso vascolare. La formazione culturale specifica e necessaria e la conoscenza del programma terapeutico complessivo sono condivise dal team dell'accesso. In tale modello integrato dovrebbero essere trovate soluzioni perché anche la responsabilità professionale ed il rimborso amministrativo risultino bene “integrate” tra i vari specialisti ed operatori sanitari che partecipano all'attività. Il rimborso a D.R.G. com'è attualmente regolato presenta incongruenze e può produrre effetti contrari alla migliore cura del paziente. Le Aziende ospedaliere attualmente non riservano all'accesso vascolare, parte irrinunciabile della terapia dialitica, l'attenzione necessaria e non comprendono come una corretta gestione del problema, fondata su percorsi organizzati, migliori la qualità di vita del paziente e contenga il costo assistenziale della dialisi. La gestione complessiva dell'accesso vascolare dialitico non può più fondarsi, attualmente, solo sulla “buona volontà” del nefrologo dializzatore, ma richiede regole strutturali. Pertanto andrebbero definite le motivazioni professionali mediante l'attribuzione di precisi compiti, con lo scopo di meglio identificare e minimizzare il “rischio organizzativo”. L'individuazione di meccanismi economico-organizzativi-normativi che privilegino anzitutto l'ottenimento del risultato e, a seguire, che premino il lavoro di tutta la squadra che l'ha generato è la condizione prima per creare il modello integrato. è più che mai tempo che l'accesso vascolare entri a pieno titolo nel sistema qualità della dialisi e per farlo, a nostro avviso, il modello organizzativo integrato è l'unica soluzione possibile.

ObjectiveTo evaluate in patients with TIA and ipsilateral high-grade internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis whether changes in cognitive performance and cerebral hemodynamics occurred after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and to explore their relationship.MethodsParticipants were patients who underwent CEA, had TIA within the last 6 months, and had an ipsilateral severe ICA stenosis. Coloured Progressive Matrices (CPM) plus Complex Figure Copy Test (CFCT) and phonemic (ph) plus categorical (ca) Verbal Fluency (VF) tests were performed to assess right and left hemisphere cognitive functions, respectively. Hemodynamics was assessed with transcranial Doppler ultrasonography by means of the cerebral vasomotor reactivity (CVR) to hypercapnia.ResultsA total of 137 patients were included. Before CEA, patients with right ICA obtained lower scores on the CPM and CFCT; patients with left ICA stenosis performed worse on the phonemic and categorical VF tests. The CVR was decreased on the side of the stenosis. At 6 months from CEA, CVR and cognitive performance were significantly improved. The performance change in cognitive tests exploring the revascularized hemisphere was positively associated with the ipsilateral CVR variation (CPM: R2 for linear regression = 0.759, adjR2 = 0.737; CFCT: R2 = 0.734, adjR2 = 0.710; (ph)VF: R2 = 0.774, adjR2 = 0.749; (ca)VF: R2 = 0.732, adjR2 = 0.703).ConclusionCognitive performance was enhanced at 6 months since CEA, and the improvement was related to the CVR increase. Cerebral hemodynamics may be an independent and potentially reversible determinant of cognitive dysfunction in severe carotid artery disease.

We treated a 73-year-old female patient with a giant thoracic proximal aortic aneurysm above a previous multibranched thoracoabdominal graft without a distal neck for a standard endovascular approach. A procedure with sandwich technique was performed using the new Valiant Navion Evo Thoracic Endograft® to preserve visceral graft. Postoperative angio-computed tomography scan demonstrated the correct position of the endoprosthesis without any leakage with patency of visceral graft.

In Italy, the use of arteriovenous grafts (AVG) is limited (1-5 %) due to different approaches to vascular access (VA) management as compared to other countries, where guidelines (which may not apply to the Italian setting) have been produced. Therefore, the Study Group (GdS) on VA of the Italian Society of Nephrology produced this position paper, providing a list of 8 recommendations built upon current guidelines.The most controversial and innovative issues of existing guidelines have been summed up in 12 different statements. We selected 60 Italian dialysis graft experts, nephrologists and vascular surgeons (PP1SIN Study Investigators). They were asked to express their agreement/disagreement on each issue, thus creating a new method to share and exchange information.Most of them agreed (consensus90%) on specific criteria set to choose AVG over native AVF (nAVF) and tunnelled venous catheter (tVC) and on the necessary conditions to implant them. They did not fully agree on the use of AVG in obese patients, in patients at risk of developing ischemia, on the priority of AVG as an alternative to brachial-basilic fistula with vein transposition, and in case of a poorly organized setting regarding graft maintenance. Keeping in mind that the nAVF should be preferred whenever is feasible, AVGs are indicated when superficial veins are unavailable or to repair a nAVF (bridge graft). An AVG is an alternative to tVC if the expected patient survival is long enough to guarantee its clinical benefits.

This paper presents an overview of the project carried out by the Vascular Access (VA) Working Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology with the aim of developing 4 position papers at the national level on how to choose, use, and implant the different, possible types of vascular access. The topics of the project are: 1) recommendations on the use of prosthetic arteriovenous fistulas for vascular access in hemodialysis, 2) recommendations on the use of venous catheters for hemodialysis, 3) infections induced by a venous catheter for hemodialysis, and 4) how to create and maintain a vascular access for hemodialysis. This paper also gives an explanation of the difficulties existing in Italy in the implementation of international guidelines, mostly due to significant differences in the procedures for the creation of VA, compared with the countries where most of the literature on the subject has been published. Individual position papers were drafted for each of the different topics. A list of recommendations was produced based on existing guidelines. Then these recommendations were critically reviewed by experts working in Italy, who expressed their opinion on their inclusion in position papers. The working method used to gather the opinions of the various experts is described. The final target is to provide clinicians interested in VA with updated documents on selected topics. Such documents will be updated periodically, and they will present a thorough overview of expert opinions.

Partendo dalla recente analisi della letteratura sulla BT realizzata da Napoli (6), gli Autori approfondiscono alcuni elementi di incertezza relativi ai risultati, in particolare l’aumentato rischio di infezione e la ridotta formazione di aneurismi associati a tale tecnica. Se la sua sicurezza verrà confermata in ulteriori studi di ampia durata, la BT potrebbe essere indicata per pazienti con particolare location della FAV e per ridurre la formazione di aneurismi.

Objectives: The treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower limbs during pregnancy remains controversial. There are a lot of problems related to anticoagulant therapy for the safety of the fetus; the use of caval filters rarely appears in the literature and it is not yet codified. So the choice of the right treatment is often difficult. The authors review their experience with a prophylactic use of a temporary caval filter for patients with proximal DVT of the last period of pregnancy, in order to avoid the inherent risk of major pulmonary embolism during delivery and postpartum. Methods: Ten women with proximal DVT were treated. The diagnosis was performed by Doppler ultrasonography (DU) and magnetic resonance (MR). At the end of pregnancy, a temporary caval filter (eight Prolyser and two Tempofilter) was percutaneously inserted under X-ray control. The patients were then subjected to a planned caesarean section. After 15 days, all filters were removed after a phlebography to check the absence of clots. Results: The mean time of X-ray exposure was about 1 min and 30 s. None of the patients suffered a major pulmonary embolism. All fetuses were born without problems or malformations. There were no complications related to the filters. No caval thrombosis or filters clots were found at the phlebography. The follow-up registered no pulmonary embolism episodes. Conclusions: The use of a temporary caval filter in pregnancy is safe and does not introduce any additional risk. It could be suggested for pregnant patients with proximal DVT beginning in the last period of pregnancy.

Gestire l'accesso vascolare oggi è sempre più difficile per il nefrologo, soprattutto se deve farlo da solo. Il team dell'accesso vascolare è uno strumento importante del quale ciascun nefrologo dovrebbe dotarsi; è costituito da varie componenti, a iniziare da quella infermieristica “strutturalmente” già presente in un centro dialisi. Chirurgo vascolare e angioradiologo interventista sono ormai alleati irrinunciabili per il nefrologo che deve affrontare i problemi sempre più complessi dell'accesso vascolare. I componenti del team devono poter interagire fra loro sotto la sapiente regia del nefrologo, la cui cultura sul tema deve essere la più ampia, completa e aggiornata possibile. L'impossibilità di creare il team dell'accesso per mancanza di specialisti nella struttura in cui opera, non deve mai però impedire al nefrologo di individuare altri team esterni a cui fare riferimento per proporre i suoi casi complessi.

The Vascular Access Study Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology has scheduled four national studies regarding the choice, implantation and use of vascular access. Study topics will include 1) utilization of vascular grafts for hemodialysis; 2) indications and use of venous catheters; 3) tunneled central venous catheter infection; 4) organization of the implantation and repair of vascular access. After examining the difficulties in implementing international guidelines on vascular access in Italy and the differences in practice patterns between our and other countries (where the most important studies were published), the Study Group set out to prepare four position papers based on discussion of controversial aspects of the international guidelines by nephrologists and surgeons experienced in the Italian practice. An innovative operative method for verifying the consensus on vascular access practice patterns was used. The final aim was to write a document addressed to vascular access operators (surgeons and nephrologists) based on the consensus of experts on controversial vascular-access- related issues. The project will include yearly updates of the documents.

In Italy, the use of arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) is limited (1-4%) due to different approaches to vascular access management compared to other countries, where guidelines that may not apply to the Italian setting have been produced. Therefore, the Vascular Access Study Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology produced this position paper, providing a list of 8 recommendations built upon current guidelines. The most controversial and innovative issues of the existing guidelines have been summed up in 12 different topics. We selected 60 Italian dialysis graft experts, nephrologists and vascular surgeons (PP1SIN Study Investigators). They were asked to express their approval or disapproval on each issue, thus creating a new method to share and exchange information. Almost all agreed on specific criteria for the choice of AVG over native arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) and tunneled venous catheters (tVC) and on the necessary conditions to implant them. They did not fully agree on the use of AVG in obese patients and patients at risk of developing ischemia, as an alternative to brachiobasilic fistula with vein transposition, and in case of a poorly organized setting. When AVF is feasible, it should be preferred. AVGs are indicated when superficial veins are unavailable or to repair an AVF (bridge graft). An AVG is an alternative to tVC if the expected patient survival is long enough to allow clinical benefits. The ultimate choice of the graft type is made by the physician in charge of the surgical intervention. Antithrombotic prophylaxis may be justified in some cases.

We report a case of Inflammatory Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (IAAA) producing bilateral hydro-ureteronephrosis. A 74-year-old patient presented to urologist office for bilateral hydronephrosis detected by kidney and bladder ultrasound (US). Patient reported lower urinary tract symptoms and inconstant and slight low back pain irradiated to inguinal region dating 3 weeks. Renal function, urine analysis and abdominal examination were normal. However the repeated ultrasound in the urologist office revealed abdominal aortic aneurism extended to iliac vessels. The patient was sent directly to vascular surgery unit where contrast computerized tomography (CT) and successful surgical repair were done. Final diagnosis was IAAA. The post-operative course was uneventful. Renal function was regular and the hydronephrosis reduced spontaneously under monitoring by CT and US. We review diagnosis and management of hydronephrosis that is sometimes linked to IAAA rather than standard AAA. Abdominal ultrasound is mandatory in any bilateral hydronephrosis and it could save lives.

The renal haematic flow decrease, the vasoconstriction and the local vascular resistance increase, associated with descending aortic cross-clamping, before the origin of renal arteries, can be contrasted by continuous infusion of fenoldopam, a dopamine analog with selective action on DA1-receptors. The renal effects of this molecule are renal plasmatic flow increase and local vascular resistance decrease, without important haemodynamic changes, with mild cardiovascular modification, even at high doses, in hypertensive and non hypertensive patients, also in normal volume condition and hypovolemic condition. This selective action at renal level allows the use of fenoldopam also in surgical emergencies, in patients with low cardiovascular function. The case report here presented demonstrated a beneficial renal effects of continuous infusion of fenoldopam and its easy to use, in emergency situations. These findings could be extrapolated for other patients or suggested for additional research.

Extracranial carotid artery aneurysm is a rare condition with relatively significant morbidity and mortality. When surgery is not indicated, endovascular techniques are emerging as the preferred treatment. However, even this approach may be contraindicated due to anatomic factors. We present a case of a high-lying extracranial carotid artery aneurysm with challenging anatomy unsuitable for conventional or endovascular repair. After resecting the aneurysm, the carotid artery was revascularized using the new Gore Hybrid Vascular Graft (W. L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz). This straightforward procedure turned out to be safe and further reduced the cerebral ischemic time.