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Rationale: Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is an uncommon fibroinflammatory condition without established or effective medical therapies. Infiltrating B lymphocytes are commonly present, and progressive fibrosis compromises mediastinal structures, including blood vessels and airways, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate the benefits and side effects of rituximab in patients with progressive and symptomatic FM. Methods: We treated 22 patients (median age, 35 yr; range, 15–68 yr; 45% female) with metabolically active, progressive FM with rituximab on an off-label basis. Additionally, patients were administered pneumocystis and antifungal prophylaxis when immunosuppressed with rituximab. Modeling of longitudinal treatment response based on changes in relative lesion volume from baseline was performed retrospectively using functional data analysis, and time-to-event modeling was performed to estimate treatment response rates based on a >30% reduction in pretreatment volume. The primary endpoints were lack of disease progression and change in mediastinal lesion volume on computed tomography (evaluated retrospectively). Results: No patient experienced disease progression after rituximab therapy. Median clinical follow-up was 42 months (range, 7–94 mo) and imaging follow-up 21 months (range, 7–62 mo). A total of 82% of patients had confirmed histoplasmosis-associated FM. After rituximab treatment, a 49.6% (95% confidence interval, 17.5–64.4%) mean estimated decrease in pretreatment lesion volume was observed at 24 months. The estimated objective treatment response rate was 47.9% (95% confidence interval, 26.7–70.3%). Conclusions: This observational study suggests that rituximab is a well tolerated and potentially effective therapy in a cohort of patients with symptomatic and progressive FM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Most paediatric upper respiratory infections are virally mediated and result in self-limiting reactive lymphadenopathy. In children younger than 5 years, retropharyngeal lymph nodes may give rise to deep neck space infections in this potential space. Retropharyngeal infections are rare after 5 years because lymph nodes undergo atrophy. Methods: We present a series of 6 cases of paediatric retropharyngeal abscesses (RPA) complicated by mediastinitis, managed at a tertiary hospital over a 4-year period. Results: All our cases presented with fever, difficulty feeding, and neck swelling. The age range was 11 weeks–11 months, and all tested negative for human immunodeficiency virus. The diagnosis and complications were confirmed on computed tomography (CT) scan. The CT scans consistently revealed RPA with varying degrees of deep neck space and mediastinal extension. All children were promptly taken to theatre for source control. Two were extubated successfully immediately after surgery, and the other 4 were extubated in the paediatric intensive care unit, with the longest duration of intubation being 3 days. Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) was cultured in all 6 cases. Conclusion: Management of these cases may be challenging, and young children with RPA require close care and airway monitoring. CT or magnetic resonance imaging is essential to delineate the extent of infection. Surgical drainage should be performed when there is a large abscess, a complication occurs, or an inadequate response in 24–48 h to medical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ingestion of corrosive substances represents a frequent and consequential medical scenario, significantly impacting both vital and functional prognoses through the emergence of acute complications or stenosis, which pose considerable therapeutic challenges. Currently, endoscopy remains the cornerstone modality for diagnostic assessment and management. Nevertheless, recent research highlights computed tomography (CT) as a promising alternative, avoiding the risks associated with endoscopy and reducing the unnecessary surgical interventions based on its findings. Methods: Our retrospective study, spanning three years, encompassed 28 patients who had ingested corrosive substances. Among them, 24 underwent both CT scanning and endoscopic evaluation using CT and endoscopic scores. Results: Employing Standardized CT scoring criteria alongside the Zargar's endoscopic classification, our findings revealed significant concordance between the two modalities, particularly in discerning trans-parietal necrosis within the esophagus and stomach. Notably, radiographic evidence of digestive tract injury was found to be predictive of complications in over 80% of cases, demonstrating high sensitivity and negative predictive value. Furthermore, CT scores indicating moderate to severe injury were significantly associated with stenosis, with slightly inferior performance compared to endoscopy. Of particular note, a CT score indicative of severe injury was found to be a good predictor of mortality, further underscoring the prognostic value of CT in these cases. Conclusion: While the utility of CT in this context is undeniable, its integration with endoscopic findings remains imperative. We advocate for a systematic approach incorporating CT scanning, with further prospective research warranted to explore the feasibility of CT as a standalone diagnostic tool, as suggested by some scholars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oesophageal soft food bolus obstruction is a common presentation to emergency departments. Often these patients are given medication with little evidence of efficacy. Although many cases self-resolve, some require removal of the obstruction. Delay in removal can lead to complications such as oesophageal perforation and mediastinitis. Traditionally, removal was performed by ENT surgeons using rigid oesophagoscopy, but oesophago-gastro duodenoscopy offers a safer alternative that does not require a general anaesthetic. Method: The current performance, pathways and outcomes of patients attending emergency departments across three health boards in Scotland were reviewed. Results: In total, 313 patients admitted for oesophageal soft food bolus obstruction were identified. Mixed practice for a single common presentation was observed. In addition, it was found that the majority of patients are already managed by surgery and gastroenterology services with good outcomes and low morbidity. Conclusion: Patients presenting with soft food bolus obstruction should be referred to local surgery and gastroenterology services in the first instance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A foreign body is defined as any object coming from outside, foreign to the human body. In dentistry, cases of accidental aspiration or ingestion of orthodontic appliances or fragments, as well as instruments used during dental practice, have been described. If a sharp object pierces the esophagus, the consequences can be serious. Food and other esophageal contents can enter the chest cavity (mediastinum) and cause a life-threatening inflammation (mediastinitis). Sharp objects can also cause perforation of the stomach, intestines, colon or rectum. The perforation allows food, digestive juices, or intestinal contents, to leak into the abdomen. This leak is a medical emergency, as it can cause peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity) with fatal consequences. It passes more frequently into the digestive tract than into the respiratory tract. The biggest problems occur at the level of the esophagus and stomach. Abdominal radiographic studies are the initial approach and are very useful in determining the location of ingested foreign bodies, in addition to fiber ingestion for i ntestinal motility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening soft-tissue infection affecting the deep fascia and subcutaneous tissue. It is characterized by a fulminant course and high mortality rates. NF of the head and neck is very rare, with most cases being odontogenic in origin. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively review the most important features of cervical necrotizing fasciitis (CNF) in adults and add our experience in the management of this entity. The most common isolated organisms are Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. If the infection progresses to descending mediastinitis, the prognosis becomes very poor. Since the initial clinical features can be similar to those of a non-necrotizing deep cervical infection, a high degree of suspicion is critical for an early diagnosis. A computed tomography scan is essential for the diagnosis and to define the extent of the infection/rule out descending mediastinitis. Early and aggressive surgical debridement of all compromised tissue and antibiotic therapy and fluid resuscitation are essential and should not wait for bacterial culture results. Despite prompt and adequate treatment, the mortality of CNF can be as high as 35%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) developing after deep neck infection (DNI) is a potentially lethal disease of the mediastinum with a mortality rate as high as 40% prior to the 1990s. No standard treatment protocol is available. Here, we present the outcomes of our multidisciplinary approaches for treating DNM originating from a DNI. Methods: Between June 2016 and July 2021, there were 390 patients with DNIs admitting to our tertiary hospital. A total 21 patients with DNIs complicated with DNM were enrolled. The multidisciplinary approaches included establishment of airway security, appropriate surgery and antibiotics, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and intensive care unit management. The clinical variables were analyzed. Results: Two patients died and 19 survived (mortality 9.5%). The patients who died had a higher mean C-reactive protein (CRP) level than did those who survived (420.0 ± 110.3 vs 221.8 ± 100.6 mg/L) (P =.038). The most common pathogens were Streptococcus constellatus and Streptococcus anginosus. From 2001 to 2021, the average mortality rate of studies enrolling more than 10 patients was 16.1%. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary approaches, early comprehensive medical treatment, and co-ordination among departments significantly reduce mortality. Patients with severe inflammation and high CRP levels require intensive and aggressive interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the histological characteristics and treatment efficacy of non-immunoglobulin G4-related fibrosing mediastinitis and discuss differential diagnoses for this rare entity. Methods: We present a case study of non-immunoglobulin G4-related fibrosing mediastinitis diagnosed on core biopsy and treated with steroids. A total of four 18-gauge core needle biopsy specimens were obtained for surgical pathology. Analysis of the patient's medical history, radiological characteristics of fibrosing mediastinitis, histological features, immunohistochemistry results, the differential diagnosis and treatment efficacy of different types of fibrosing mediastinitis was performed. Results: This report describes a unique presentation of fibrosing mediastinitis (syncope and weight loss) that was concerning for malignancy. Histological, laboratory and radiographical studies confirmed the diagnosis of non-immunoglobulin G4-related fibrosing mediastinitis. The patient received corticosteroid treatment which showed marked improvement after 1 month of treatment. Conclusions: Fibrosing mediastinitis is an extremely uncommon entity with unknown pathogenesis, and it is more important to rule out malignancy and infection than to delineate between fibrosing mediastinitis and IgG4-related disease. In doing this, we may reasonably initiate a trial of corticosteroids which may prove beneficial, as in this patient. More studies on the pathogenesis of fibrosing mediastinitis are necessary to guide better directed treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Median sternotomy and steel wires for sternal closure are the standard approach for cardiac surgery. An incomplete repair associated with chest wall motion, especially in the presence of predisposing factors, can lead to life-threatening deep sternal wound infection, also known as mediastinitis, in 2–5% of cases. Despite current antibiotic and surgical treatments, mediastinitis is associated with a 10–40% mortality rate and a significant increase in morbidity and hospital stay. High mortality and difficult treatment appear to be due to bacterial biofilm, a self-produced extracellular polymeric product that incorporates host tissue and is responsible for the failure of immune defenses and standard antimicrobial therapies. Nanostructures are an effective strategy to enhance the healing process, as they establish a favorable environment for the neosynthesis of the extracellular matrix, supporting tissue development. Synthetic polymers have been proven to exhibit suitable biodegradable and mechanical properties, and their biofunctionalization to enhance cell attachment and interaction with the extracellular matrix is being widely investigated. The use of antibiotic treatments suspended in poly-D,L-lactide and polyethylene oxide and electrospun into nanofibers, or in sponges, has been shown to inhibit bacterial biofilm production. Additionally, growth factors can be incorporated into 3D bioresorbable scaffolds with the aim of constituting a structural and biological framework to organize and expedite the healing process. Therefore, these combined approaches may change the treatment of mediastinitis in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening soft-tissue infection affecting the deep fascia and subcutaneous tissue. It is characterized by a fulminant course and high mortality rates. NF of the head and neck is very rare, with most cases being odontogenic in origin. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively review the most important features of cervical necrotizing fasciitis (CNF) in adults and add our experience in the management of this entity. The most common isolated organisms are Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. If the infection progresses to descending mediastinitis, the prognosis becomes very poor. Since the initial clinical features can be similar to those of a non-necrotizing deep cervical infection, a high degree of suspicion is critical for an early diagnosis. A computed tomography scan is essential for the diagnosis and to define the extent of the infection/rule out descending mediastinitis. Early and aggressive surgical debridement of all compromised tissue and antibiotic therapy and fluid resuscitation are essential and should not wait for bacterial culture results. Despite prompt and adequate treatment, the mortality of CNF can be as high as 35%.

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) is one of the most established methods for voice reacquisition following total laryngectomy. The most difficult complication following TEP is the management of saliva leakage or secretion into the trachea due to TE fistula enlargement. In this study, we devised a new strategy to close TE fistulas and confirmed its safety and effectiveness. Skin incision: If the tracheal mucosa around the voice prosthesis appears intact and normal, an arcuate incision, from 10 to 2 o'clock, is made on the skin 5 mm superior to the edge of the stoma. However, if the surrounding tracheal mucosa is fragile because of leaking, the incision is made on the superior edge of the stoma, with later reconstruction of the posterior tracheal wall. Separation of the trachea and esophagus: If the esophagotracheal spatium appears normal and is easy to dissect, the connective pipes can be found easily. After cutting the pipe, a ligature alone is sufficient for the tracheal side; however, the esophageal wall is closed with Gambee sutures. If the esophagotracheal spatium is compromised and the posterior tracheal wall is fragile (due to saliva leakage), we remove the posterior wall and reconstruct the area using the superior skin flap. We performed our novel method on four patients with intractable conditions; postradiotherapy for laryngeal cancer, total pharyngo-laryngo-esophagectomy (TPLE) with jejunum reconstruction, TPLE with gastric lifting reconstruction, and in a patient who underwent cervicothoracic incisional drainage for descending necrotizing mediastinitis. None of the cases showed postoperative leakage from the fistula, and oral intake was resumed without difficulty. This study showed that this strategy based on TE fistula conditions is effective even in difficult-to-treat cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pleural effusion caused by fibrosing mediastinitis is rarely reported. This study aimed to summarize the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of transudative pleural effusion due to fibrosing mediastinitis. Methods: Medical records and follow-up data of 7 patients with transudative pleural effusion due to fibrosing mediastinitis in Beijing Chaoyang Hospital between May 2014 and Feb 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: These patients included 4 males and 3 females, with an average age of (64 ± 9) years. There were 3 left-sided effusions, 2 right-sided effusions and 2 bilateral effusions. Previous or latent tuberculosis was found in 6 patients. Pulmonary hypertension was indicated by echocardiography in all the 7 patients. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) of all the 7 cases showed increased soft tissue images visible in the mediastinum and bilateral hilus, different degrees of stenosis or occlusion in the pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein. In addition, 4 cases were found of right middle lobe atelectasis with a mediastinal window setting. There was interstitial pulmonary edema on the side of pleural effusion with a lung window setting. All the 7 patients were treated with intermittent drainage of pleural effusion combined with diuretic therapy. Five patients were treated with antituberculosis therapy. Up to now, two patients died of right heart failure and respiratory failure after 2 and 16 months respectively; The remaining 5 patients were still in follow up. Conclusion: Fibrosing mediastinitis can lead to pulmonary vein stenosis or occlusion, and thus cause transudative pleural effusion, which can be detected by CTPA. Pulmonary hypertension, long time of cough, and a history of tuberculosis are common in these patients. The common therapy is intermittent drainage of pleural effusion combined with diuretic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to explore the added value of spectral computed tomography (CT) parameters to conventional CT features for differentiating tuberculosis-associated fibrosing mediastinitis (TB-associated FM) from endobronchial lung cancer (EBLC). Chest spectral CT enhancement images from 109 patients with atelectasis were analyzed retrospectively. These patients were divided into two distinct categories: the TB-associated FM group (n = 77) and the EBLC group (n = 32), based on bronchoscopy and/or pathological findings. The selection of spectrum parameters was optimized with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. The relationship between the spectrum parameters and conventional parameters was explored using Pearson's correlation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to build spectrum model. The spectrum parameters in the spectrum model were replaced with their corresponding conventional parameters to build the conventional model. Diagnostic performances were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analyses. There was a moderate correlation between the parameters ㏒(L-AEF NIC) - ㏒(L-AEF C) (r = 0.419; p < 0.0001), ㏒(O-AEF 40KeV) - ㏒(O-AEF C) (r = 0.475; p < 0.0001), [L-A-hydroxyapatite {HAP}(I)] - (L-U-CT) (r = 0.604; p < 0.0001), {arterial enhancement fraction (AEF) derived from normalized iodine concentration (NIC) of lymph node (L-AEF NIC), AEF derived from CT 40KeV of bronchial obstruction (O-AEF 40KeV), arterial-phase Hydroxyapatite (Iodine) concentration of lymph node [L-A-HAP(I)], AEF derived from conventional CT (AEF C), unenhanced CT value (U-CT)}. Spectrum model could improve diagnostic performances compared to conventional model (area under curve: 0.965 vs 0.916, p = 0.038). There was a moderate correlation between spectrum parameters and conventional parameters. Integrating conventional CT features with spectrum parameters could further improve the ability in differentiating TB-associated FM from EBLC. • Spectrum parameters correlated moderately with conventional parameters. • Spectrum parameters may be helpful for identifying atelectasis due to tuberculosis-associated fibrosing mediastinitis. • Integrating spectrum parameters with computed tomography features could further improve the differential ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial mediastinal cryobiopsy (EBUS-TMC), a novel technique, has been reported to improve the diagnostic value of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) for mediastinal lesions in recent studies. Current literature suggests that this procedure has greater diagnostic efficacy compared to conventional EBUS-TBNA. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic yield and complications associated with EBUS-TMC in comparison to EBUS-TBNA, thereby exploring the potential of this novel technique in enhancing the diagnostic utility for mediastinal lesions. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted by searching the PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases for articles published from inception to December 31, 2023. The objective of this review was to evaluate the utilization of EBUS-TMC in diagnosing mediastinal disease, while also assessing the quality of each study using the QUADAS-2 tool. The diagnostic yield estimates were subjected to a meta-analysis utilizing inverse variance weighting. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the complications associated with this procedure was performed. Results: The meta-analysis included 10 studies involving a total of 538 patients. The findings of the meta-analysis demonstrated that EBUS-TMC yielded an overall diagnostic rate of 89.59% (482/538), while EBUS-TBNA yielded a rate of 77.13% (415/538). The calculated inverse variance-weighted odds ratio was 2.63 (95% confidence interval, 1.86–3.72; p < 0.0001), and I2 value was 11%, indicating a statistically significant difference between the two techniques. The associated complications consisted of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, mediastinitis, and bleeding, with an incidence of 0.74% (4/538), 0.37% (2/538), 0.0% (0/538), and 1.12% (6/538), respectively. Moreover, the funnel plot displayed no discernible publication bias. Further subgroup analysis revealed a notable improvement in the diagnosis value for lymphoma (86.36% vs. 27.27%, p = 0.0006) and benign disorder (87.62% vs. 60.00%, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: This review of the current available studies indicated that EBUS-TMC enhanced overall diagnostic yields compared to EBUS-TBNA, particularly for diagnosing benign disease and lymphoma. This procedure was not associated with any serious complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy has become a popular treatment option for wound healing. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the use of VAC therapy as a bridge before the definitive treatment for the management of deep sternal wound complications. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were performed in PubMed and Embase. Outcomes of interest included mortality, treatment failure, length of hospital stay (LOS), length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and cost of treatment. Twenty-two studies involving 1980 patients were included in the quantitative synthesis of this meta-analysis. Patients treated with VAC had significantly lower overall mortality [1738 patients; Risk ratio [RR] = 0.36 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25, 0.51)], treatment failure [1210 patients; RR = 0.26 (95% CI: 0.19, 0.37)], LOS [498 patients; (standard mean difference = −0.44 (95% CI: −0.81, −0.07)] and ICU stay [309 patients; (standard mean difference = −0.34 (95% CI: −0.67, −0.01)] compared to that of non-VAC patients. VAC therapy was associated with reduced cost of treatment per patient compared with that of non-VAC therapies (reductions of 3600 USD, 6000 USD and 8983 USD in the reported studies). VAC therapy as an adjunct in the definitive treatment of patients with deep sternal wound complications was associated with lower mortality, treatment failure, LOS, ICU stay and cost of treatment when compared with a non-VAC approach. Randomised controlled trials would be essential to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis is one of the most lethal forms of acute mediastinitis. It originates from an odontogenic or deep neck infection, which descends to the mediastinum through the fascial planes. It is a rare condition, but mortality rates remain high, especially in the presence of comorbidities or predisposing factors. Delay in diagnosis has been shown to be one of the most important factors for the disease outcome. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment by a multidisciplinary team are of utmost importance. Case series: Four healthy young males with descending necrotizing mediastinitis were treated at our institution. None of them had any comorbidities, but all of them waited between 3 and 4 days before seeking medical help. Upon their arrival at the hospital, in addition to the presence of a severe neck infection, the presence of mediastinitis was also found. Despite the timely surgical treatment of both the source of the infection and the mediastinitis, three of the four cases had a fatal outcome. Conclusion: We believe that the time factor is of greater importance for the outcome of acute descending mediastinitis than the factors of age and presence of accompanying diseases. Proper and rapid treatment by a multidisciplinary team is essential, even for young and healthy people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep sternal wound infection is a rare complication of cardiac surgery that is typically caused by skin resident flora, such as species of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Infections caused by fungi are less common and are generally caused by Candida species. Regardless of etiology, these infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We present a case of postoperative mediastinitis that occurred following a 5-vessel coronary artery bypass graft and was caused by a filamentous fungus of the Rhizopus genus. The patient was treated with serial debridement, liposomal amphotericin B, and isavuconazonium and was discharged from the hospital in stable condition. Fungal mediastinitis is a rare entity, and clinicians must maintain a high level of suspicion to make the diagnosis. A fungal cause of postoperative mediastinitis should be considered in patients with negative bacterial cultures, uncontrolled diabetes, or current immunosuppression or those who present weeks after surgery with a subacute onset of symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neck infections are often prone to being underestimated and can manifest insidiously. The spread of infection can lead to translocation into thoracic areas, causing descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM). However, the application of the post-mortem approach in such cases is not well-described in the literature. A literature review was carried out according to the PRISMA methods. Nine papers were included in the final review, revealing different levels of involvement of neck layers that can be linked to different causes. Expertise with respect to the anatomy of the fasciae and spaces of the neck enables an understanding of the pathogenesis of DNM. However, a clear autoptic description was not provided in any of the articles. Therefore, we also employed a practical post-mortem approach to cases of death due to DNM. It is fundamental for pathologists to identify the exact head and neck structures involved. Providing dissectors with support from an otolaryngologist could be useful. This paper could help address such difficult cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Lemierre syndrome (LS) is a rare condition with a high mortality risk. It is well described in older children and young adults involving bacteremia, thrombophlebitis, and metastatic abscess commonly due to Fusobacterium infections. Young, pre-verbal children are also susceptible to LS; thus, careful attention must be given to their pattern of symptoms and history to identify this condition in the emergency department (ED). Case Report: A 12-month-old previously healthy boy with a recent diagnosis of acute otitis media and viral illness presented to the ED with a complaint of fever. Additional symptoms developed at the head and neck and were noted on subsequent ED visits. Advanced imaging revealed significant lymphadenopathy and deep space inflammation extending to the mediastinum. Subsequent imaging confirmed extensive sinus and deep vein thromboses, consistent with LS. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was the only organism identified. After surgical debridement, appropriate intravenous antibiotics, and heparin anticoagulation therapy, the patient experienced full recovery after prolonged hospitalization.Conclusion: A febrile infant with multiple acute care visits and development of lymphadenopathy, decreased oral intake, decreased cervical range of motion, and sepsis should raise suspicion for Lemierre syndrome. The medical evaluation of deep neck spaces and deep veins should be similar to that of older children and adults with LS, including advanced imaging of the head and neck. However, medical management should particularly target MRSA due to its emerging prevalence among infantile LS cases. Further research is necessary to determine the optimal management strategies of LS for this age group.

Background: Acute mediastinitis is rarely caused by haematogenous spread of a remote infection. In this respect, since the only medical therapy is usually unsuccessful, treating acute mediastinitis with no source of infection detected is very challenging and management not standardized. In this case report, we describe non-surgical management experience of acute mediastinitis caused by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Case presentation: In a 79-year-old man judged not eligible for cardiac surgery, we attempted the infection source control through vacuum-assisted closure therapy, together with antimicrobial therapy. We observed gradual clinical, laboratory and radiologic improvements: reduced swelling and normalization of the white blood cell count and C-reactive protein level were associated with reduction in size of a periaortic abscess. Conclusion: We managed a clinical condition with high mortality risk with chronic antimicrobial therapy alone, a strategy that is rarely considered. With this medical strategy we achieved an optimal response to a clinical picture that does not allow any other approach.

Abstract Tracheomediastinal fistula is a rare but life‐threatening complication of cancer. We report a case of tracheomediastinal fistula induced by concurrent chemoradiotherapy in limited stage small cell lung cancer. Despite the treatment response, the metastatic paratracheal lymph node increased gradually during concurrent chemoradiotherapy, resulting in the occurrence of tracheomediastinal fistula and mediastinitis. Without any surgical intervention, the patient achieved successful recovery from mediastinitis through antibiotic treatment, although the tracheomediastinal fistula remained open. In this report, we also review previous studies of tracheomediastinal and bronchomediastinal fistulas and summarize the clinical features.

Abstract Despite evidence suggesting the benefit of prophylactic regional antibiotic delivery (RAD) to sternal edges during cardiac surgery, it is seldom performed in clinical practice. The value of topical vancomycin and gentamicin for sternal wound infections (SWI) prophylaxis was further questioned by recent studies including randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to comprehensively assess the safety and effectiveness of RAD to reduce the risk of SWI.We screened multiple databases for RCTs assessing the effectiveness of RAD (vancomycin, gentamicin) in SWI prophylaxis. Random effects meta-analysis was performed. The primary endpoint was any SWI; other wound complications were also analysed. Odds Ratios served as the primary statistical analyses. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed.Thirteen RCTs (N = 7,719 patients) were included. The odds of any SWI were significantly reduced by over 50% with any RAD: OR (95%CIs): 0.49 (0.35–0.68); p

Abstract The occurrence of ectopic pancreas in the mediastinum is rare. Herein, we report a 22-year-old female who presented with right shoulder pain, dysphagia, fever and headaches. Chest computer tomography revealed a mass in the posterior mediastinum with accompanying signs of acute mediastinitis. Needle biopsy and fine-needle aspiration revealed ectopic gastral tissue and ectopic pancreas tissue, respectively. Surgical resection was attempted due to recurring acute pancreatitis episodes. However, due to chronic-inflammatory adhesions of the mass to the tracheal wall, en-bloc resection was not possible without major tracheal resection. Since then, recurring pancreatitis episodes have been treated conservatively with antibiotics. We report this case due to its differing clinical and radiological findings in comparison to previous case reports, none of which pertained a case of ectopic pancreas tissue in the posterior mediastinum with recurring acute pancreatitis and mediastinitis.

Boerhaave's syndrome, also known as spontaneous esophageal rupture, is a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by a tear in the esophagus. It is most commonly caused by a sudden increase in intraesophageal pressure, often due to severe vomiting or retching. Early diagnosis of Boerhaave's syndrome is crucial for improving patient outcomes. The classic triad of symptoms includes severe chest pain, vomiting, and subcutaneous emphysema (air under the skin). However, not all patients present with this triad, and the diagnosis can be challenging, especially in patients without the typical symptoms. In this case report, we present the clinical details of a 52-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department (ED) with severe abdominal pain and vomiting for several days. The patient had a history of chronic alcohol abuse and a recent episode of vigorous vomiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study aimed to characterize the demographics, microbiology, management and treatment outcomes of mediastinitis according to the origin of the infection. Methods This retrospective observational study enrolled patients who had mediastinitis diagnosed according to the criteria defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and were treated in Strasbourg University Hospital, France, between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2020. Results We investigated 151 cases, including 63 cases of poststernotomy mediastinitis (PSM), 60 cases of mediastinitis due to esophageal perforation (MEP) and 17 cases of descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM). The mean patient age (standard deviation) was 63 (14.5) years, and 109 of 151 patients were male. Microbiological documentation varied according to the origin of the infection. When documented, PSM cases were mostly monomicrobial (36 of 53 cases [67.9%]) and involved staphylococci (36 of 53 [67.9%]), whereas MEP and DNM cases were mostly plurimicrobial (38 of 48 [79.2%] and 8 of 12 [66.7%], respectively) and involved digestive or oral flora microorganisms, respectively. The median duration of anti-infective treatment was 41 days (interquartile range, 21–56 days), and 122 of 151 patients (80.8%) benefited from early surgical management. The overall 1-year survival rate was estimated to be 64.8% (95% confidence interval, 56.6%–74.3%), but varied from 80.1% for DNM to 61.5% for MEP. Conclusions Mediastinitis represents a rare yet deadly infection. The present cohort study exhibited the different patterns observed according to the origin of the infection. Greater insight and knowledge on these differences may help guide the management of these complex infections, especially with respect to empirical anti-infective treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracheomediastinal fistula is a rare but life‐threatening complication of cancer. We report a case of tracheomediastinal fistula induced by concurrent chemoradiotherapy in limited stage small cell lung cancer. Despite the treatment response, the metastatic paratracheal lymph node increased gradually during concurrent chemoradiotherapy, resulting in the occurrence of tracheomediastinal fistula and mediastinitis. Without any surgical intervention, the patient achieved successful recovery from mediastinitis through antibiotic treatment, although the tracheomediastinal fistula remained open. In this report, we also review previous studies of tracheomediastinal and bronchomediastinal fistulas and summarize the clinical features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the early postoperative outcomes of right anterior thoracotomy minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (RAT-MIAVR) surgery with those of median full sternotomy aortic valve replacement (MFS-AVR) approach with the goal of identifying potential benefits or drawbacks of each technique. Methods: This retrospective, observational, cohort study included 476 patients who underwent RAT-MIAVR or MFS-AVR in our hospital from January 2015 to January 2023. Of these, 107 patients (22.5%) underwent RAT-MIAVR, and 369 patients (77.5%) underwent MFS-AVR. Propensity score matching was used to minimize selection bias, resulting in 95 patients per group for analysis. Results: After propensity matching, two groups were comparable in preoperative characteristics. RAT-MIAVR group showed longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (130.24 ± 31.15 vs. 117.75 ± 36.29 minutes, P=0.012), aortic cross-clamping time (76.44 ± 18.00 vs. 68.49 ± 19.64 minutes, P=0.004), and longer operative time than MFS-AVR group (358.47 ± 67.11 minutes vs. 322.42 ± 63.84 minutes, P=0.000). RAT-MIAVR was associated with decreased hospitalization time after surgery, lower postoperative blood loss and drainage fluid, a reduced incidence of mediastinitis, increased left ventricular ejection fraction, and lower pacemaker use compared to MFS-AVR. However, there was no significant difference in the incidence of major complications and in-hospital mortality between the two groups. Conclusion: RAT-MIAVR is a feasible and safe alternative procedure to MFS-AVR, with comparable in-hospital mortality and early follow-up. This minimally invasive approach may be a suitable option for patients requiring isolated aortic valve replacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite evidence suggesting the benefit of prophylactic regional antibiotic delivery (RAD) to sternal edges during cardiac surgery, it is seldom performed in clinical practice. The value of topical vancomycin and gentamicin for sternal wound infections (SWI) prophylaxis was further questioned by recent studies including randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to comprehensively assess the safety and effectiveness of RAD to reduce the risk of SWI.We screened multiple databases for RCTs assessing the effectiveness of RAD (vancomycin, gentamicin) in SWI prophylaxis. Random effects meta-analysis was performed. The primary endpoint was any SWI; other wound complications were also analysed. Odds Ratios served as the primary statistical analyses. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed.Thirteen RCTs (N = 7,719 patients) were included. The odds of any SWI were significantly reduced by over 50% with any RAD: OR (95%CIs): 0.49 (0.35–0.68); p < 0.001 and consistently reduced in vancomycin (0.34 [0.18–0.64]; p < 0.001) and gentamicin (0.58 [0.39–0.86]; p = 0.007) groups (psubgroup = 0.15). Similarly, RAD reduced the odds of SWI in diabetic and non-diabetic patients (0.46 [0.32–0.65]; p < 0.001 and 0.60 [0.44–0.83]; p = 0.002 respectively). Cumulative Z-curve passed the TSA-adjusted boundary for SWIs suggesting adequate power has been met and no further trials are needed. RAD significantly reduced deep (0.60 [0.43–0.83]; p = 0.003) and superficial SWIs (0.54 [0.32–0.91]; p = 0.02). No differences were seen in mediastinitis and mortality, however, limited number of studies assessed these endpoints. There was no evidence of systemic toxicity, sternal dehiscence and resistant strains emergence. Both vancomycin and gentamicin reduced the odds of cultures outside their respective serum concentrations’ activity: vancomycin against gram-negative strains: 0.20 (0.01–4.18) and gentamicin against gram-positive strains: 0.42 (0.28–0.62); P < 0.001. Regional antibiotic delivery is safe and effectively reduces the risk of SWI in cardiac surgery patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a life-threatening condition, generally caused by downward dissemination of oropharyngeal infections through cervical fascial planes. Mediastinal drainage is conventionally achieved by thoracotomy, but a Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) approach is gaining interest due to the reduced invasiveness of procedure. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of VATS treatment in patients with DNM. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter study including patients with descending mediastinitis that underwent mediastinal drainage through VATS (VATS group) or thoracotomy (thoracotomy group), both in association with cervical drainage. Patients with mediastinitis secondary to cardiac, pulmonary, or esophageal surgery were excluded. The intergroup differences regarding surgical outcome and postoperative morbidity and mortality were compared. Results: A total of 21 patients were treated for descending mediastinitis during the study period. Cervicotomy and thoracotomy were performed in 15 patients (71%), while cervicotomy and VATS were performed in 6 patients (29%). There were no significant differences in surgical outcome, postoperative morbidity, and mortality between groups. VATS treatment was not associated with a higher complication rate. Patients in the VATS group had a shorter operative time (p = 0.016) and shorter ICU stay (p = 0.026). Conclusions: VATS treatment of DNM is safe and effective. The comparison with thoracotomy showed no significant differences in postoperative morbidity and mortality. The VATS approach is associated with a shorter operative time and ICU stay than thoracotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of ectopic pancreas in the mediastinum is rare. Herein, we report a 22-year-old female who presented with right shoulder pain, dysphagia, fever and headaches. Chest computer tomography revealed a mass in the posterior mediastinum with accompanying signs of acute mediastinitis. Needle biopsy and fine-needle aspiration revealed ectopic gastral tissue and ectopic pancreas tissue, respectively. Surgical resection was attempted due to recurring acute pancreatitis episodes. However, due to chronic-inflammatory adhesions of the mass to the tracheal wall, en-bloc resection was not possible without major tracheal resection. Since then, recurring pancreatitis episodes have been treated conservatively with antibiotics. We report this case due to its differing clinical and radiological findings in comparison to previous case reports, none of which pertained a case of ectopic pancreas tissue in the posterior mediastinum with recurring acute pancreatitis and mediastinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cluster of deep sternal wound infections caused by Candida spp. occurred at our institution. Investigation did not disclose a common environmental source. We postulate that broad-spectrum antibiotic surgical prophylaxis and liberal use of antibiotics contributed to these infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many options are available for reconstruction after deep sternal wound infections. However, these options have not been critically appraised. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the existing evidence on sternal rewiring versus flap reconstruction and pectoralis major muscle flaps (PMFs) versus greater omental flaps (GOFs). A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched. Outcomes of interest included mortality, treatment failure and length of hospital stay (LOS). Fourteen studies were included. Nine studies compared flaps to rewiring, reporting on 618 patients. Patients treated with flaps had significantly lower mortality compared with patient treated with rewiring (Risk ratio [RR] 0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23–0.77, P < 0.01). Flap patients had significantly lower treatment failure compared with those who were treated with rewiring (RR 0.22, 95% CI: 0.14–0.37, P < 0.01). No statistically significant differences were observed in LOS between patients treated with flaps compared those treated with rewiring (standard mean difference −0.84, 95% CI: −1.91 to 0.24, P = 0.13). Five studies compared PMF with GOF, reporting on 599 patients. No statistically significant differences were found in mortality (RR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.24–1.68, P = 0.36), LOS (standard mean difference −14.52, 95% CI: −42.00 to 12.96, P = 0.30) or treatment failure (RR 1.37, 95% CI: 0.31–6.07, P = 0.68) in patients treated with PMF compared with patients treated with GOF. Flap-based reconstruction demonstrated improved mortality and treatment outcomes compared to sternal rewiring. However, no significant differences were observed in outcomes between the PMF- and GOF-based reconstructions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of optimal surgical approach for descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) treatment still remains a challenging issue due to absence of guidelines or well-designed prospected multicenter studies. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of patients with DNM treatment depending on spread of mediastinum lesions, characteristics of clinical course and surgical tactics. 27 patients were included in the study. The patients were assigned to groups according to Endo S. et al. and Sugio K. et al. mediastinitis classification. We investigated the cause of infection and its causative agents, time interval from symptoms onset to hospitalization, time of antibiotics administration, presence of comorbidities including diabetes mellitus, SIRS or sepsis arise during treatment, clinical course of the disease and peculiarities of surgical management. Development of types I, IIA, IIB DNM is associated with odontogenic or pharyngeal source of infection including pharyngeoesophageal perforations. Types I, IIB, IIC -- with pharyngeal infection. Patients with type I DNM have high risk of infection dissemination to inferior mediastinum in early postoperative period and requires CT monitoring during first 48-72 hours in case of certain positive clinical dynamic presence. Combined mediastinotomy in patients with type IIA DNM can require either right-sided or left-sided incision. Thoracoscopic mediastinotomy is expedient and perspective approach for treatment of patients with type IIC DNM. Fulminant clinical course with early DNM verification (2nd-4th day) suggest for high causative agents virulence and host inability to limit infection spreading. Potential predictors of unfavorable DNM course could be odontogenic etiology, presence of decompensated comorbidities and severe patient condition at the time of hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute coronary artery obstruction is a rare but lethal complication of surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), which may be caused by embolization of resected native tissue such as calcium plaque, thrombus, or perivalvular aortic tissue like fat embolus. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are the main treatment modalities. PCI is less invasive, but it is difficult to determine its feasibility intraoperatively. Case presentation: We report an 86-year-old woman who had asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis. She had scleroderma with an intractable left leg ulcer and bilateral leg varices. Considering the possibility of the spread of infection from the leg wound, SAVR was performed via right anterior thoracotomy to avoid complications such as mediastinitis. Coronary artery occlusion was suspected after weaning of cardiopulmonary bypass in the operation room due to asynergy with ST elevation and new severe mitral regurgitation. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) helped diagnose coronary obstruction by embolus based on the degree of stenosis and the movement of the stenosis site. Percutaneous catheter intervention was performed successfully to restore coronary perfusion. Conclusion: TEE facilitated the diagnosis of coronary artery stenosis caused by an embolus and helped in determining the feasibility of percutaneous catheter intervention, thus allowing us to choose PCI over CABG as a less invasive surgery. This is especially invaluable in cases where obtaining a saphenous graft for CABG is difficult or where CABG would have required conversion from minimally invasive surgery (anterolateral approach) to median sternotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatal hemoptysis secondary to severe pulmonary veins stenosis and fibrosing mediastinitis is an exceptional late complication of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. We report the case of a 53-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation treated by radiofrequency ablation and admitted in our center 6 months after the procedure because of aggravating dyspnea and fatigability. Transthoracic echocardiography showed moderate dilation of right heart cavities, severe pulmonary hypertension and a turbulent flow in superior pulmonary veins. The cardiologist suspected pulmonary vein(s) stenosis and so cardiac computed tomography (CT) angiography was performed, with findings of severe stenosis of the right superior, right inferior and left inferior pulmonary veins, near-occlusion of the left superior pulmonary vein and the vein draining the apical segment of the right lower lobe. The CT scan also revealed soft tissue attenuation of the mediastinum posterior to the left atrium suggesting fibrosing mediastinitis together with parenchymal findings consistent with pulmonary veno-oclusive disease and an area of hemorrhagic infarction. Fatal hemoptysis occurred 3 days later, before treatment was attempted. In conclusion, severe pulmonary vein stenosis and fibrosing mediastinitis are rare but devastating complications of radiofrequency ablation. Prevention and early diagnosis are the key elements as these entities are potentially life-threatening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients with congenital heart disease are at increased risk for requiring cardiac pacing during their lifetime. Methods: We present the first described case of using two leadless pacing systems manufactured by separate companies implanted within the same patient to provide atrial and ventricular pacing due to complex congenital anatomy. Results: A 27‐year‐old male with dextrocardia with double outlet right ventricle, subaortic ventricular septal defect, and pulmonary stenosis status‐post pulmonary valve replacement complicated by ventricular pacing dependence and subsequent atrial pacing dependence after atriotomy‐based atypical flutter ablation developed recurrent mediastinitis and pocket infection with erosion despite prolonged antibiotic treatment. Due to atrial and ventricular pacing dependence, a comprehensive congenital care team concluded the need for lead extraction and replacement of pacemaker via leadless peacemaking device. Laser‐lead extraction and temporary atrial pacemaker placement was performed. Afterward, a transesophageal echocardiogram guided implantation of both a Micra AV 2 (Medtronic) leadless pacemaker in the interventricular septum within the right ventricle and an Aveir (Abbott) leadless pacemaker in the superior base of the right atrial appendage was performed with successful pacing. Although there is no communication between these devices, atrial‐mechanical ventricular pacing was reliable with good implant thresholds, impedances and sensing from both devices. Conclusion: Our case demonstrates the feasibility of using dual leadless pacing modalities to simultaneously pace someone at complex, prohibitive risk for temporary permanent or permanent pacemaker devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical damage to the esophagus is a severe urgent pathology characterized by the development of life-threatening complications. With all the variety of modern diagnostic and treatment technologies, the mortality rate in this category of patients remains quite high, which requires the search for new approaches to this problem. An analysis of modern approaches to the treatment of mechanical injuries of the esophagus and their complications was carried out. In the practice of surgery for esophageal injuries, minimally invasive technologies are becoming increasingly common, including endovideosurgical and oral endoscopic interventions. A special place in this is occupied by endoscopic vacuum therapy, which results have been sufficiently studied in the treatment of complications of gastrointestinal surgery. At the same time, the use of this technology in patients with mechanical damage to the esophagus is limited to small series of observations, which requires further study.

Introduction: Mediastinitis remains one of the most serious complications of cardiac surgery. The reported incidence is 1-4%, while the related mortality varies from 10-47%. Case Presentation: A patient with triple vessel disease (TVD) was hospitalized at our clinic for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. The preoperative examination results were normal. We performed standard CABG under extracorporeal circulation. The patient had a favorable postoperative course. On the fifth postoperative day, the wound showed seropurulent drainage. The treatment of the patient's wound continued with open dressing, negative wound pressure device, debridement, minimal muscle plasticity, and total bilateral muscle pectoral flap plasticity. The infecting microorganism was identified as multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumani, and systemic antibiotic therapy was initiated. The patient had "per secundum closure" of the wound after all these efforts. The wound healed completely 2 months after discharge, and the patient was in good health. Conclusions: Mediastinitis is associated with high mortality and high financial and human costs. The occurrence of this high-risk complication can be prevented through constant vigilance at every step from admission to discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to demonstrate a clinical case of iatrogenic injury of the trachea, which, despite its large size (length 65, width up to 25 mm), wastreated conservatively and, thus, avoided risks for the patient associated with the need for technically complex surgical intervention.Materials and methods. A 65-year-old patient diagnosed with peripheral cancer of the lower lobe of the left lung pT2aN0M0 stage IB, who routinely underwent thoracoscopic left lower lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection. During anesthesia, tracheal intubation with a double-lumen tube of the R. Shaw type was carried out with technical difficulties; during intubation, a defect in the posterior wall of the trachea in its membranous part was formed. The defect was diagnosed on the first postoperative day.Results. Despite the large size of the tracheal defect, the patient had no symptoms of respiratory failure, and there were also no signs of mediastinitis or damage to the esophagus, which almost completely covered the resulting hole in the posterior wall of the trachea. Such circumstances made it possible to avoid a potentially dangerous and complex surgical intervention, carry out conservative therapy and wait for the resulting defect to heal through granulation tissue. Enhanced antimicrobial therapy was carried out; in order to sanitize the tracheobronchial tree and monitor healing, fiber-optic bronchoscopy was performed, which made it possible to clearly demonstrate both the damage itself and the stages of its healing.Conclusions. The described case clearly demonstrates the potential for healing of even very extensive tracheal wall defects with conservative therapy. However, it is important to note that success in this clinical case was the result of a combination of circumstances – only the membranous part of the trachea was damaged; the defect was almost completely covered by the intact esophagus, which reduced the risk of developing mediastinitis and prevented the development of severe pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema. There were no signs of respiratory failure. The patient was transferred from the intensive care unit on the 13th day of the postoperative period, discharged from the hospital on the 22nd day.

Abstract Introduction Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a type of acute mediastinitis that is rarely reported but is regarded as a fatal disease despite improvements in technological methods and antibiotic therapies. We aimed to determine the demographic, clinical, and paraclinical features of patients diagnosed with acute DNM. Methods In this retrospective study, patients’ hospital records with a diagnosis of DNM admitted to the Namazi hospital in southern Iran during 18 years (2002–2019) were reviewed. Demographic and clinical features were recorded and subsequently analyzed via SPSS 22. Results Out of 67 mediastinitis patients, 25 (37.3%) were diagnosed as DNM with an average age of 37.2 ± 16.7 years, and 68% were male. Regarding etiology, 52.0% were due to neck infection. Based on the technique of surgery, 52% of the patients underwent the combined method, which was mostly among type I and IIA DNM, while thoracotomy was mostly performed on type IIB DNM (P = 0.08). Based on the incision, type IIA and IIB had the highest frequency of thoracotomy and cervicothoracic incisions (P = 0.02 and 0.002). Puss discharge was significantly lower in type I DNM (P = 0.01). Based on the presenting symptoms of our patients, the majority (72.0%) had a chief complaint of neck pain, followed by chills and fever (48%). There were no reports of mortality during our short-term follow-up. Conclusion We report one of the largest retrospective studies of DNM patients in our referral center, with a high prevalence of the disease among younger populations, especially under 40 years. The method of treatment should be chosen based on the extent of infection and can be limited to neck exploration in upper mediastinal infections, though thoracic or combined approach in more broad infections.

A 59-year-old male underwent Bio-Bentall + total arch replacement with a frozen elephant trunk for acute type A aortic dissection before at another hospital. He was diagnosed as mediastinitis and previous graft infection, followed by wound closure with omental flap installation. However, the recurrent graft infection from the aortic root to the FET in the descending aorta was diagnosed by 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography. Redo modified Bio-Bentall procedure, total arch replacement, and descending aortic replacement for previous graft infection using anterolateral thoracotomy with partial sternotomy was successfully performed. Anterolateral thoracotomy with partial sternotomy provided not only the excellent exposure from the aortic root to the descending aorta but also sure myocardial protection with antegrade and selective delivery of cold crystalloid cardioplegia and stable brain protection with antegrade selective cerebral perfusion. The patient is doing well without recurrent of infection after 2 years of the operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a rare and life-threatening condition, with high morbidity and mortality. Consequently, appropriate and prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary. Herein, we report a case of esophageal perforation and bronchial ulcer secondary to DNM, for which thoracoscopic esophagectomy was performed after the failure of conservative treatment. Case presentation: A 63-year-old man was diagnosed with mediastinitis affecting the posterior mediastinum after presenting with a sore throat, back pain, and dyspnea. He also had type 2 diabetes mellitus and renal failure. The patient developed septic shock the following day, and intensive treatment was initiated. The condition of the patient gradually improved; however, the laboratory data revealed that levels of C-reactive protein remained high. On day 22, the esophageal perforation was demonstrated on esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Bronchoscopy was remarkable for the ulcer on the membranous tracheal wall, though he did not go into respiratory failure. The emergency thoracoscopic esophagectomy was performed on day 27. The reconstruction surgery was performed on day 100. Conclusions: Despite the fact that the general condition is stable with conservative treatment, DNM can develop esophageal perforation. Thus, it is essential to determine the appropriate timing of surgical intervention if levels of inflammation markers continue to be high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fibrosing mediastinitis is a benign but fatal disorder characterized by the proliferation of fibrous tissue in the mediastinum, causing encasement of mediastinal organs and extrinsic compression of adjacent bronchovascular structures. FM-associated pulmonary hypertension (FM-PH) is a serious complication of FM, resulting from the external compression of lung vessels. Pathologic assessment is important for etiologic diagnosis and effective treatment of this disease. Case Presentation: A 59-year-old male patient presented at our hospital and was diagnosed with FM-PH. He declined surgical biopsy that is the reference standard for pathologic assessment, in consideration of the potential risks. Therefore, an endobronchial ultrasound examination was performed, which identified the subcarinal lesion. Under ultrasound guidance, four needle aspirations were carried out, followed by one cryobiopsy. Histopathological examination of transbronchial needle aspiration specimens was inconclusive, while samples from cryobiopsy suggested a diagnosis of idiopathic FM. Further immunophenotyping demonstrated the infiltration of lymphocytes, macrophages, and FOXP3-positive cells in FM-PH. Conclusion: Mediastinal cryobiopsy might be a novel and safe option for FM-PH patients who are unwilling or unsuitable for surgical procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Culture of extracted drains or epicardial pacing wires is an easy and noninvasive method for detecting mediastinitis after open-heart surgery, although studies on its sensitivity and specificity are limited. We, therefore, investigated the usefulness of this approach for diagnosing mediastinitis. Methods: We retrospectively studied the culture results of drains and epicardial pacing wires extracted from 3308 patients. Prediction models of mediastinitis with and without culture results added to clinical risk factors identified by a logistic regression analysis were compared. Results: The incidence of mediastinitis requiring surgery was 1.89% (n = 64). Staphylococcus was the causative bacterium in 64.0% of cases. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of positive culture results were 50.8%, 91.8%, 10.7%, and 99.0%, respectively. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus had the highest positive predictive value (61.5%). A multivariate analysis identified preoperative hemodialysis (OR 5.40 [2.54−11.5], p < 0.01), long operative duration (p < 0.01), postoperative hemodialysis (OR 2.25 [1.01−4.98], p < 0.05), and positive culture result (OR 10.2 [5.88−17.7], p < 0.01) as independent risk factors. The addition of culture results to pre- and postoperative hemodialysis and a lengthy operative time improved the prediction of mediastinitis. Conclusions: A culture survey using extracted drains and epicardial pacing wires may provide useful information for diagnosing mediastinitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediastinal tumours represent a heterogeneous group of entities derived from the manifold structures located in or adjacent to the mediastinum. Due to the occurrence of some of these tumours in characteristic mediastinal compartments, an anatomical subdivision of the mediastinum in the prevascular (anterior), visceral (middle), and paravertebral (posterior) is helpful for the differential diagnosis. Benign anterior mediastinal tumours linked to an enlargement of the thymic gland mainly consist of thymic cysts and several types of thymic hyperplasia: true thymic hyperplasia, rebound hyperplasia, lymphofollicular hyperplasia, and so‐called thymic hyperplasia with lymphoepithelial sialadenitis (LESA)‐like features. Mature teratomas, ectopic (para)thyroid tissue, and benign thymic tumours such as thymolipoma or thymofibrolipoma represent further typical tumours of the anterior mediastinum. Pericardial, bronchogenic, or oesophageal duplication cysts predominate in the middle mediastinum, whereas neurogenic tumours and myelolipomas are characteristic findings in the posterior compartment. Vascular tumours, lipomas, adenomatoid tumours, Castleman disease, or mediastinitis are further examples of less frequent tumours or tumorous lesions affecting the mediastinum. This review focuses on benign mediastinal lesions with an emphasis on benign tumours of the thymus. Besides histology, characteristic epidemiological and clinical aspects prerequisite for the correct diagnosis and patient management are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 21-year-old woman with severe pulmonary hypertension and circulatory collapse was referred to our hospital for possible lung transplantation with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Computed tomography revealed severe stenosis of all 4 pulmonary veins, and fibrosing mediastinitis was suspected. Surgical reconstruction of the pulmonary veins was performed, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was weaned off. After surgery, pulmonary vascular resistance normalized. This successful case demonstrates that surgical pulmonary venous reconstruction is an important treatment for fibrosing mediastinitis induced by pulmonary venous stenosis and pulmonary hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes 5 mediastinitis cases secondary to invasive group A Streptococcus (iGAS) disease in a recent outbreak in Spain. Among 398 iGAS cases between January 2019—March 2023, 5 (1.3%) were mediastinitis, 4 occurring in December 2022, all secondary to pneumonia or deep neck infection. We outline the clinical outcome with a review of the scarce pediatric literature. Conclusion: mediastinistis is a rare but severe complication of iGAS and a high level of suspicion is required to diagnose it. What is Known: • Group A Streptococcus can cause invasive and severe infections in children. • Mediastinitis is a severe complication from some bacterial infections, mainly secondary due to deep-neck abscesses. What is New: • Mediastinitis is an unrecognized complication due to an invasive group A Streptococcus (iGAS) infection. • In cases of a deep-neck abscess or complicated pneumonia a high clinical suspicion of iGAS mediastinitis is required, especially when the clinical course is not favorable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracheal rupture is a very rare but life‑threatening complication of endotracheal intubation. It is more common in women and patients older than 50 years old. Overinflation of endotracheal tube cuff and tracheal wall weakening are the most important pathogenetic mechanisms. Laceration sites are located in the posterior membranous wall in most cases. Subcutaneous and mediastinal emphysema and respiratory distress are the most common manifestations. A 55‑year‑old female presented with postoperative subcutaneous and mediastinal emphysema without dyspnea because of a tear in the posterior tracheal wall. The diagnosis was based on clinical manifestation, chest computer tomography scans (CT), and endoscopic findings. A conservative approach by broad‑spectrum antibiotic therapy was decided because of patients’ vital signs stability and the absence of esophageal injury. The follow‑up showed that there was no lesion in the posterior tracheal wall. Our case showed that in clinically stable patients without mediastinitis and with spontaneous breathing, conservative management of tracheal tears is a safe procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]