Anterior Branch Research Articles

Comparison of analgesic efficacy of combined external oblique intercostal and rectus sheath block with local infiltration analgesia at port site in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized controlled trial.

Conventional fascial plane block approaches for upper abdominal surgeries spare the lateral cutaneous nerve. An external oblique intercostal block (EOIB) may be suitable for upper abdominal incisions as it blocks the lateral and anterior branches of the intercostal nerves T6-T10. However, there is a paucity of studies evaluating this block in clinical settings. The study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of combined EOIB and rectus sheath block with local infiltration analgesia (LIA) in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). After obtaining written informed consent, 70 patients were randomly allocated to undergo right-sided EOIB with 20 ml and left-sided RSB with 10 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine at the end of surgery (group ER, n = 35). Patients in the LIA group (n = 35) underwent local infiltration at the port site using 20 ml of the same solution (group LIA, n=35). The visual analog scale scores with combined EOI and RSB were significantly lower than those with LIA at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 h (P < 0.001). Rescue analgesics were required by 65.7% and 14.3% of the patients in the LIA and block groups, respectively (P < 0.001). The time to first rescue analgesic was significantly greater in the ER group than that in the LIA group (2.8 ± 1.10 vs. 1.6 ± 0.50 h; P = 0.012). The number of times rescue analgesia was required was significantly lower in the ER group than that in the LIA group (1.00 ± 0.00 vs. 1.83 ± 0.72; P = 0.015). Nausea and vomiting scores were higher in the LIA group than those in the ER group (P < 0.001). Patient satisfaction scores were higher in the ER group than those in the LIA group. EOIB combined with RSB provides superior analgesia compared with LIA and should be considered for LC.

Anatomie de la région frontale

The forehead is an anatomic region located between the frontal hairline cranially, the eyebrow and the glabella caudally, and the anterior border of the temporal fossa laterally on both sides. Its vertical situation, due to the telencephalon growth, is specific of the human species. From surface to deep planes, the skin and sub-cutaneous fat pads are described first. The muscular plane is constituted of the frontal muscles elevators of the forehead and the eyebrow, and the depressors which are the procerus and orbicularis oculi muscles superficially, the depressor supercilii muscle, and the corrugator supercilii in a deep plane. The galea aponeurotica, located deep to the frontal muscles, is a fibrous lamina on which the muscles of the skull insert. There is a sexual dimorphism of the frontal bone. The male forehead has extensive supraorbital bossing, and above this there is often a flat area, in teh femalethe supraorbital bossing is often nonexistent and above, there is a continous mild curvature. Blood supply to the forehead is given by an anterior pedicle constituted by the supraorbital and supratrochlear vessels and a lateral pedicle made of the anterior branches from the superficial temporal vessels. The sensory innervation of the forehead is given by the ophtalmic nerve which divides in frontal, nasociliar and lacrymal nerves. The motor innervation is given by the temporal ramus of the facial nerve which passes laterally to the zygomatic arch, and gives the innervation of the frontal, corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles.

Diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging in patients with consequences of obstetric brachial plexus palsy

BACKGROUND: Diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging allows visualizing the conductive pathways of the brain and spinal cord and assessing their structure and integrity and has found wide application in practical medicine. Currently, brachial plexus diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging is not a routine research technique, and very few studies have described its use in children and adolescents. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the possibility of brachial plexus diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging application in pediatric patients with obstetric brachial plexus palsy sequelae and identify correlations between the diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging parameters of brachial plexus and parameters of electrophysiological study of the upper extremities in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A complex examination of 50 patients was performed. The main group included 30 patients aged 6–17 years, with contractures and secondary deformities of the bones of the shoulder girdle and upper limbs caused by unilateral obstetric brachial plexus palsy. The control group included 20 patients aged 7–17 (10.1 ± 2.1) years without clinical signs, and anamnestic data indicated the presence of damage to the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves of the upper limbs. RESULTS: No significant differences in diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging parameters of the right and left brachial plexus were found in the control group. Significant differences in fractional anisotropy of the C5–C8 tracts on the side of the damaged brachial plexus were detected compared with those on the side of the undamaged brachial plexus. On the side of the injured brachial plexus, nonlinear correlations were found between the fractional anisotropy of the tracts of the spinal nerve and its branches and the amplitude of sensory responses from the sensory nerve, which originated from the anterior branches of this spinal nerve, and between the volume of the branches of the tracts of the spinal nerve and the amplitude of соmpound motor responses from the muscles, which were innervated by the anterior branches of this spinal nerve. CONCLUSIONS: Diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging allows for the evaluation of the structural changes in the SNs that participate in the formation of the brachial plexus. The results can be used for further studies of diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging of brachial plexuses in various pathologies in pediatric patients.

Brain lymphatic vessels accompanying meningeal arteries in the human

IntroductionRecent studies showed the connection between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and deep cervical lymph nodes (dCLN) via lymphatic vessels (LV)s. These LVs accompany dural sinuses, cranial nerves, and arteries. The present study aimed to show in addition to the main trunk of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) whether the anterior and posterior branches of MMA; the anterior (AMA) and posterior (PMA) meningeal arteries also have a role in brain lymphatic drainage in humans. Materials and methodSamples of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) and its two main branches (anterior and posterior), anterior and posterior meningeal arteries (AMA and PMA) were obtained from 3 cadavers and 6 autopsies. Podoplanin (PDPN) (lymphatic endothelial marker) and CD31 (vascular endothelial marker) immunohistochemistry (IHC) were applied to 5 μm thick transverse sections and counterstained with hematoxylin. Furthermore, western blotting techniques were applied to the same tissue samples in 3 autopsy cases to demonstrate the presence of PDPN. ResultsWe observed the presence of the LVs along the main trunk of MMA and its two branches, AMA, and PMA. The LVs along the MMA (main trunk) had a larger diameter range than its branches and the AMA and PMA. The diameter of LVs of the PMA was larger than AMA. Furthermore, fluid channels with varying diameters and densities were closely localized to the LVs. The western blot PDPN protein expression confirmed IHC results. ConclusionThe LVs along the main trunk, anterior and posterior branches of the MMA, AMA, and PMA also provide an extracranial pathway for thought drainage of waste from the brain tissue in humans. Thus, the organization of the extracranial transport of LVs of the brain should be well-defined for understanding the role of lymphatic drainage in various neurological diseases.

The key to success in blocking lateral cutaneous branches with re-modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach: a newly discovered space between the endothoracic fascia, diaphragm, and costodiaphragmatic recess.

This study aimed to determine whether the administration of a modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach (M-TAPA) could result in the blockade of the lateral cutaneous branches. This study focused on a newly discovered anatomical space/plane adjacent to the M-TAPA plane, which we termed "space between the endothoracic fascia, diaphragm, and costodiaphragmatic recess: SEDIC." Thirteen sides of nine formalin-embalmed cadavers were macroscopically dissected to investigate the anatomical spaces related to the effects of M-TAPA. Furthermore, ten adult volunteers were administered 20mL of 0.2% ropivacaine into the abdominal plane (corresponding to the M-TAPA plane) and the SEDIC, and a pinprick test was performed 1h after the injection. Cadaver macrodissection revealed the presence of the SEDIC adjacent to the M-TAPA plane. The SEDIC was completely spatially isolated from the M-TAPA plane by the presence of costal cartilage and/or tendinous structures. In the volunteer study, the administration of local anesthetics into the SEDIC effectively blocked the lateral cutaneous branches of T8-T12, in addition to the anterior branches. Our study revealed the presence of the SEDIC adjacent to the M-TAPA plane. Administration of local anesthetics into the SEDIC, named re-modified TAPA, may have the potential to enhance the analgesic effect in the abdominal region.

Evaluation of ventral branches of segment VI portal vein relative to the right hepatic vein in laparoscopic right anterior sectionectomy.

The right intersectional plane and the right hepatic hilum were noted too often exhibit anatomical variations, making difficult the laparoscopic right anterior sectionectomy (LRAS). We analyzed the anatomical features employing 3D-CT images of 55 patients, and evaluated these features according to the course of ventral branches of segment VI of the portal vein (PV, P6a) relative to the right hepatic vein (RHV). P6a run on the dorsal side of RHV in 32 patients (58%, Dorsal-P6a) and the ventral side of RHV in 23 (42%, Ventral-P6a). Ventral-P6a had more patients with S6 partially drained by middle hepatic vein (MHV, 39% vs. 0%, P < 0001), the narrower angle between the anterior and posterior branches of PV (73.1° vs. 93.8°, P = 0.006), the wider angle between the RHV and inferior vena cava (54.3° vs. 44.3°, P < 0.001), and more steeply pitched angle between S6 and S7 along the RHV (140.6° vs. 162.0°, P < 0.001) compared to Dorsal-P6a. In LRAS for Dorsal-P6a patients, the transection surface was relatively flat. In LRAS for Ventral-P6a patients, the narrow space between anterior and posterior glissons makes difficult the glissonean approach. The transection plane was steeply pitched, and RHV was partially exposed. S6 was often partially drained to MHV in 39% of the Ventral-P6a patients, which triggers congestion during liver transection of a right intersectional plane after first splitting the confluence of this branch.

A bicaudatus sartorius muscle: a rare variant with potential clinical implications.

Sartorius muscle (SM) belongs to the thigh anterior compartment musculature. It corresponds to the longest muscle of the human body, while its variations are described rarely. The current case reports aims to describe a distal bifurcation of the SM, forming the bicaudatus SM variant. M: ETHODS: An 84-year-old male cadaver was dissected for educational and research purposes at the Department of Anatomy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. On the left lower limb, the SM was typically originated from the anterior superior iliac spine. After 351.22 mm length, it was bifurcated into an anterior and posterior part. Both muscular parts were contributing to the pes anserinus morphology. Femoral nerve branches were providing innervation to the variant muscle, while the saphenous nerve and vein were coursed posteriorly to the variant muscle. SM morphological variability is described quite rarely. The current case report corresponds to the bicaudatus SM variant. Accessory parts of SM could lead to compression symptoms to the femoral nerve anterior branches, as well as to the saphenous nerve.

The Medipol Combination: Novel Rectointercostal Fascial Plane Block and Pectointercostal Fascial Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia Management After Cardiac Surgery: A Report of 15 Cases.

The parasternal blocks cannot cover the T7 and lower anterior and lateral branches of the thoracoabdominal nerves. In the open heart surgeries, chest drainage tubes are generally outside the target of the parasternal blocks. Recently, Tulgar et al described a novel interfascial plane block technique named "recto-intercostal fascial plane block" (RIFPB). RIFPB is performed between the rectus abdominis muscle and the sixth to seventh costal cartilages. RIFPB targets the anterior and lateral cutaneous branches of the T6-T9 thoracoabdominal nerves. In this clinical report, we want to share our experiences about pectointercostal plane block and RIFPB combination (Medipol Combination) after cardiac surgery.

The Anterior Branch of the Medial Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Innervates Cutaneous and Deep Surgical Incisions in Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Background/Objectives: The intermediate femoral cutaneous nerve (IFCN), the saphenous nerve, and the medial femoral cutaneous nerve (MFCN) innervate the skin of the anteromedial knee region. However, it is unknown whether the MFCN has a deeper innervation. This would be relevant for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) that intersects deeper anteromedial genicular tissue layers. Primary aim: to investigate deeper innervation of the anterior and posterior MFCN branches (MFCN-A and MFCN-P). Secondary aim: to investigate MFCN innervation of the skin covering the anteromedial knee area and medial parapatellar arthrotomy used for TKA. Methods: This study consists of (1) a dissection study and (2) unpublished data and post hoc analysis from a randomized controlled double-blinded volunteer trial (EudraCT number: 2020-004942-12). All volunteers received bilateral active IFCN blocks (nerve block round 1) and saphenous nerve blocks (nerve block round 2). In nerve block round 3, all volunteers were allocated to a selective MFCN-A block. Results: (1) The MFCN-A consistently innervated deeper structures in the anteromedial knee region in all dissected specimens. No deep innervation from the MFCN-P was observed. (2) Sixteen out of nineteen volunteers had an unanesthetized skin gap in the anteromedial knee area and eleven out of the nineteen volunteers had an unanesthetized gap on the skin covering the medial parapatellar arthrotomy before the active MFCN-A block. The anteromedial knee area and medial parapatellar arthrotomy was completely anesthetized after the MFCN-A block in 75% and 82% of cases, respectively. Conclusions: The MFCN-A shows consistent deep innervation in the anteromedial knee region and the area of MFCN-A innervation overlaps the skin area covering the medial parapatellar arthrotomy. Further trials are mandated to investigate whether an MFCN-A block translates into a clinical effect on postoperative pain after total knee arthroplasty or can be used for diagnosis and interventional pain management for chronic neuropathic pain due to damage to the MFCN-A during surgery.

Preservation of the middle meningeal artery during unruptured aneurysm surgery: an independent risk factor for postoperative chronic subdural hematoma.

Although microsurgical clipping for unruptured aneurysms has become safer and more efficient with modern neurosurgical advances, postoperative chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) persists as an underrecognized complication. This study investigated the association between preservation of the anterior branch of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) during surgery and CSDH development. We retrospectively reviewed 120 patients who underwent clipping for unruptured aneurysms at Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital between May 2020 and July 2023. We evaluated the patients on the basis of surgical approach-lateral supraorbital (LSO) or standard pterional craniotomy-and the status of the MMA postoperatively. We employed pre-and post-operative MR angiography to assess MMA preservation and used follow-up computed tomography scans to monitor CSDH development. Of the 120 patients, 22 (18.3%) developed CSDH. Univariate analysis revealed that male sex, advanced age, and MMA preservation are risk factors for postoperative CSDH. Multivariate analysis supported these findings, indicating a significant association with the development of CSDH. MMA preservation was reported in 65 patients, of whom 60 and 5 underwent LSO and pterional craniotomy, respectively. Preservation of the anterior branch of the MMA during unruptured aneurysm surgery is a risk factor for postoperative CSDH development. Advanced age and male sex also contribute to the increased risk. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into surgical techniques that could mitigate postoperative CSDH development.

The Relationship Between the Retromandibular Vein and the Extratemporal Segment of the Facial Nerve: A Prospective Cadaveric Study of 24 Hemifaces.

Anatomical preservation and functional integrity of the facial nerve (FN) are the main concerns of parotid surgery. Even though a variety of anatomical landmarks have been proposed and widely utilized, temporal or permanent postoperative FN palsy is stilla significant comorbidity of parotid surgery. Therefore, the literature must fully elucidate the consistency of the anatomical relationship between the FN and the retromandibular vein (RMV). We conducted a cadaveric study of 24 hemifaces to map the relationship between the FN and the RMV. Threedistinct patterns were identified.Fourteen of the hemifaces were males, and 10 were females. Thirteen cadaveric dissections were performed on the right side and 11 on the left side. Our study found three distinct patterns and proposed a classification system. Type I (66.7%) is when the nerve lies exclusively lateral to the RMV. Type II (29.2%) is when the FN lies superficial to the RMV, but its mandibular branch lies deep to the anterior branch of the RMV, and type III (4.1%) is when the FN lies exclusively medial to the RMV. The FN and RMV relationship is not constant, and surgeons should be aware of every anatomical variation. Especially in cases where the FN is estimated to lie more in-depth to the level of the RMV, a retrograde approach may be required to avoid a FN injury.

External Carotid Artery:Essential Knowledge of the External Carotid Artery Required for Neuroendovascular Surgery, with a Focus on the Middle Meningeal Artery and Occipital Artery

The perfusion territory of the external carotid artery is often underestimated; however, this blood vessel forms abundant "dangerous anastomoses" with the internal carotid and vertebral arteries. An understanding of these vascular anastomoses is crucial to ensure safe cerebrovascular interventions. There are several important aspects of the middle meningeal artery that should be considered, including anastomoses with the anterior(frontal)branch and ophthalmic artery through the sphenoidal artery(recurrent meningeal artery)and meningolacrimal artery. Additionally, the blood supply to the facial nerve via branches of the petrosal branch, such as the superior tympanic artery, and the formation of the facial arcade by the superior tympanic and stylomastoid arteries, which often originate from the posterior auricular artery, is significant. The occipital artery demonstrates rich anastomoses with vessels, such as the ascending pharyngeal and vertebral arteries, forming what is known as the pharyngo-occipital system.

Relationship between postoperative biliary complications and biliary anatomical aspects in performing right anterior- or central bisectionectomy: Single-center retrospective observational study.

Central liver resections are considered to be high-risk procedures due to postoperative biliary complications. However, anatomical aspect-related causes are underreported. Focusing upon right anterior sectionectomy (H58) and central bisectionectomy (H458), we assessed risk factors for postoperative biliary complications. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent H58 or H458 in our hospital between April 2008 and June 2023 (n = 58). We conducted univariate and multivariate analysis of risk factors of postoperative biliary complications among perioperative factors and anatomical factors including the branching type of the right posterior hepatic duct (RPHD) and the length of the right hepatic duct (RHD). Twenty-six patients (44.8%) had postoperative biliary complications. Potent risk factors in univariate analysis were the tumor proximity to the right anterior Glissonean branch and longer RHD (both P < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, longer RHD was the only independent risk factor and its hazard (95% confidence interval [CI] was 1.19 (1.05-1.35). Receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) analysis and the area under the ROC showed that 10 mm was the optimal cutoff value with high discriminatory power (0.72). Considering intraoperative procedures of the right anterior segment Glissonean branch dissection, mass ligation at the second-order branch had marginal risk, especially in patients with RHD >10 mm; its hazard (95% CI) was 5.83 (0.95-35.7). Anatomical factors of RPHD and RHD influenced postoperative biliary complications in this cohort. The supraportal with RHD type was most common anatomy but considered to be hazardous if the RHD was >10 mm.

Nothochrysinae (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) from the early Eocene Fur Formation, Denmark, with description of a new genus

Furochrysa alisae gen et sp. nov. is described, and Stephenbrooksia multifurcata Willmann, 1993 and Danochrysa madseni Willmann, 1993 are re-described based on their holotypes and additional specimens from the early Eocene Fur Formation of Denmark. The very long crossvein 1icu between CuA and CuP in the hind wing distinguishes Furochrysa gen. nov. from all other Nothochrysinae. The hind wing venation of the holotype of S. multifurcata is strongly aberrant; in particular, its MA is deeply forked proximad the origin of RP, while it is not forked proximad the pseudocubitus in other Chrysopidae. The forewing venation of the three examined specimens of D. madseni show variability in the branching of the anterior branch of CuP and A2. The chrysopid assemblage of the early Eocene Fur Formation strongly differs from that of the late Paleogene (late Eocene/Oligocene) of Europe, while the nothochrysines of the early and late Paleogene of North America do not especially differ.

Assessment of the safety and efficacy of the Zoom 45 and 55 reperfusion catheters for medium and distal mechanical thrombectomies: A multi-institutional study

IntroductionThe Zoom aspiration catheters harbor novel dimensions and construction to enhance trackability and deliverability. In addition, a beveled tip may improve thrombus interaction and aspiration force for a set inner diameter. This study evaluates their utility in medium and distal vessel occlusions. ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of Zoom 45 and 55 aspiration catheters in medium and distal vessel thrombectomy. MethodsPatients treated for distal vessel occlusions via mechanical thrombectomy utilizing either the Zoom 45/55 catheter or a historical control catheter between 2021–2022 at two institutions were included in this study. Medium and distal occlusions were defined as any anterior or posterior cerebral artery branch as well as the M2-4 segment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Preprocedural, procedural, and postprocedural variables were obtained. ResultsThirty-eight patients underwent thrombectomy with Zoom 45 or 55 catheters; four had multiple occluded vessels. Occlusion location included the M2 in 32 cases, M3-4 in 7 cases, A2 in 2 cases and P2 in 1 case. The mean number of passes per occlusion was 1.6 and overall successful reperfusion (TICI 2b or greater) was achieved in 84 % of cases. There were no symptomatic procedure-related complications such as perforation or post-procedural symptomatic ICH. Modified Rankin scores rates of 0–2, 3–5, and 6 at three months post-procedure were 35.7 %, 21.4 %, and 42.9 %, respectively. ConclusionsThe Zoom beveled tip aspiration catheters are safe and effective for more challenging medium and distal vessel occlusions.

Hip chronic pain: ultrasound guided ablation of anterior articular branches plus posterior neurolysis of the nerve to the quadratus femoris versus the alone anterior approach-a retrospective observational study.

Chronic hip pain is a common painful condition in the elderly population. A mini invasive technique that is increasingly being considered for management of CHP is the percutaneous denervation of hip articular branches via radiofrequency ablation. We described a new ultrasound-guided technique based on the combination of 90° ultrasound-guided anterior radiofrequency ablation of the articular branches of femoral nerve, accessory obturator nerve and obturator nerve for anterior hip, combined with 90° ultrasound-guided ablation of the articular branches of the nerve of the quadratus femoris for posterior pericapsular neurolysis of the hip. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients from September 2022 to September 2023 treated for chronic hip pain in the ambulatory of Pain Management, identifying 22 patients who underwent ultrasound guided radiofrequency denervation of anterior hip articular branches alone (Group B); and 22 patients in which was also applied a radiofrequency denervation of the posterior articular branches, in addition to the anterior denervation (Group A). We analysed the pain intensity of both groups measured with numeric rating scale. The combined anterior plus posterior approach ensured that the results obtained were maintained 6months after the procedure (T3) with excellent pain control and an average NRS of 1455 for group A. While for the group B, with the anterior approach alone, the NRS at six months showed an upward trend with an average NRS of 3818. The dual approach is more effective in pain relief at 6months with a statistically significant difference in NRS values (p < 0.001). This retrospective observational study highlighted the greater impact of the double approach (anterior plus posterior) in the denervation of the hip joint, compared to anterior neurolysis alone.

What should the optimal access site be for percutaneous treatment of anterior lower pole calyx stones?

Compared to other stone groups, anterior calyx stones are more challenging for endourologists to treat. This study aims to evaluate the differences between our latest technique and conventional techniques for treating anterior calyx stones in the lower pole. Patients with isolated anterior lower pole calyx or complex lower pole stones with anterior calyx branching were included in the study. The first group included lower pole access, while the second group included percutaneous treatment through the middle or upper pole. In the first group, the posterior calyx or direct anterior calyx approach was utilised depending on whether the stone was isolated calyx, complex structure or calyx anatomy, while in the second group, percutaneous nephrolithotomy was performed through the middle or upper pole posterior calyx access. There were 37 patients in Group 1 and 25 patients in Group 2. Both groups were similar regarding patient age, sex, stone burden, and stone localisation (p > 0.05). When comparing operative and post-operative data between groups, it was found that the stone clearance rate, number of accesses, and haematocrit decrease were statistically superior in the second group (p: 0.003, p: 0.002, p: 0.018), with no significant difference in mean operative time, length of hospital stay, fluoroscopy time and pain score (p > 0.05). Percutaneous surgery utilising an access from a calyx distal to the stone may offer better clearance and lower morbidity rates for lower pole stones involving the anterior calyx.

Anatomic evaluation to compare the dye spread with ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group (PENG) injection with or without an additional suprainguinal fascia iliaca (SIFI) injection in soft embalmed cadavers.

Novel interfascial plane blocks like PEricapsular Nerve Group (PENG) and SupraInguinal Fascia Iliaca (SIFI) blocks are effective for management of hip fracture pain. We compared the difference in the distribution of the dye injected and nerves stained by the addition of the SIFI block to the PENG block. A total of 24 designated dye injections were performed in eight soft-embalmed cadavers. Under ultrasound guidance 20ml green ink injected bilaterally in PENG block and 30ml methylene blue dye was injected in the SIFI block on the right side. The cadavers were dissected 24h later to assess the extent of dye spread. Extensive spread of dyes was seen on both side of iliacus muscle on the right side, but blue dye was not visible medial to the psoas tendon. The subcostal and iliohypogastric nerves were stained green in the infra-inguinal region. On the left side (PENG alone), the anterior division of the obturator, femoral and saphenous nerve (7/8) and iliohypogastric nerves (3/8) were stained in the infrainguinal region. In the suprainguinal region, the femoral nerve (5/8), accessory obturator nerve (3/8), lateral femoral cutaneous (1/8) and nerve to rectus femoris (4/8) were stained. The main obturator nerve trunk was spared with both injections while its anterior branch and accessory obturator nerve were stained with the PENG injection. The study findings indicate that combined PENG + SIFI injections lead to an extensive craniocaudal and longitudinal spread along the iliacus muscle. We perceive that the combination of these two injections will have a superior clinical outcome.

Sutton-Kadir Syndrome can be treated safely with endovascular embolisation alone.

Sutton-Kadir Syndrome (SKS) describes true inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery (IPDA) aneurysms in the setting of coeliac artery (CA) stenosis or occlusion. Although rare, SKS aneurysms can rupture and cause morbidity. Due to its rarity and lack of controlled treatment data, correct treatment for the CA lesion is currently unknown. Our aim was to assess if endovascular embolisation alone was safe and effective in treatment of SKS aneurysms, in emergent and elective settings. Secondary objectives were to describe presentation and imaging findings. A retrospective cohort study of patients treated at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital between January 2014 and December 2021 was done. Data on presentation, diagnostics, aneurysm characteristics, CA lesion aetiology, treatment and outcomes were extracted from chart review. Twenty-four aneurysms in 14 patients were identified. Rupture was seen in 7/15 patients. Most aneurysms (22/24) were in the IPDA or one of its anterior or posterior branches. Median arcuate ligament (MAL) compression was identified in all. There was no difference in median (IQR) maximal transverse diameter between ruptured and non-ruptured aneurysms (6 mm (9), 12 mm (6), P = 0.18). Of ruptures, 6/7 had successful endovascular embolisation and 1/7 open surgical ligation. Of non-ruptures, 6/7 had successful endovascular embolisation, 1/7 open MAL division then endovascular CA stenting and aneurysm embolisation. No recurrences or new aneurysms were detected with computed tomography or magnetic resonance angiography over a median (IQR) follow-up period of 30 (10) months in 12 patients. Endovascular embolisation of SKS aneurysms without treatment of MAL compression is safe and effective in both the emergent and elective settings.

Dorsal approach in laparoscopic extended left hemi-hepatectomy: A case series.

The utility of the dorsal approach has been reported for laparoscopic left hemi-hepatectomy. The aim of the present study is to show the usefulness of the dorsal approach for laparoscopic extended left-hemi-hepatectomy while ensuring safe identification of hepatic veins and dissection of the dorsal tumor margin. Tumors requiring extended left hemi-hepatectomy. After mobilization of the lateral sector and division of the Arantius plate, parenchyma above the Arantius plate is removed to expose the root of the middle hepatic vein and left hepatic vein. Each of these veins can be isolated separately either intra- or extra-hepatically. After removing the parenchyma on the cranial side of the left Glissonean pedicle continuous with the exposed hepatic veins, the left Glissonean pedicle is isolated using the Glissonean pedicle transection method. After division of the left hepatic vein and Glissonean pedicle, segment 4 (in which the main part of the tumor is commonly located) is dissected from the anterior plane of the paracaval portion of the caudate lobe by the dorsal approach, along with the hepatic hilum. Following dissection of the dorsal side of the tumor, and division of parenchyma from the anterior edge of the liver, the anterior Glissonean branches and middle hepatic vein are divided safely and the specimen is resected. Three patients underwent laparoscopic extended left hemi-hepatectomy, with no open conversions. Operative time and blood loss were 331 (concomitant with another partial hepatectomy), 277, and 315 minutes; and 200, 100, and 100 g, respectively. The postoperative courses were uneventful. The dorsal approach maximizes the advantages of laparoscopic extended left hemi-hepatectomy and can be performed safely.