Arterial Embolization Therapy Research Articles

Technique of Fractionated Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Treating Large Arteriovenous Malformation in Brain Functional Area

At present, large cranial function area arteriovenous malformation (fAVM) is mainly treated by craniotomy with a high risk of operation and high disability. In recent years, with the continuous improvement of the neural intervention technology, fractionated transcatheter arterial embolization (fTAE) may be used to treat the fAVM instead of surgical treatment. However, its effectiveness for treating fAVM has never been explored. The authors hypothesized that fTAE can be effective in the treatment of fTAE. A retrospective study was conducted in 229 cases of large fAVM in multicenter hospitals. Among them, 103 cases were performed fTAE and the other 126 cases were carried on minimally invasive craniotomy (MIC). Clinically relevant symptomatic improvement and complications were compared between 2 groups. Complete resection rate of arteriovenous malformation in MIC group (100%) was significantly higher than that of complete embolization rate in fTAE group (77.7%) (P = 0.000). However, the incidence of postoperative complications includes decreased limb muscle strength (P = 0.001), sensory loss of extremities (P = 0.003), visual field defect (P = 0.025) that were lower in fTAE group and remission rate of headache (P = 0.012) but not epilepsy (P = 0.952) was higher in fTAE group compared with that in MIC group. After 1 year follow-up, the rebleeding rate in the fTAE treatment group was 4.85%, higher than that in MIC group (0%) (P = 0.000). Fractionated transcatheter arterial embolization therapy is beneficial for reducing the postoperative complications and preoperative symptoms of fAVM, but not for recurrence rate.

One-step preparation of nano-in-micro poly(vinyl alcohol) embolic microspheres and used for dual-modal T1/T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging

It is crucial to develop dual or multi-modal self-imaging embolic microspheres to evaluate the effects of transcatheter arterial embolization therapy of tumor. However, the preparation of such hybrid microspheres always involved in multiple steps or complicated conditions. Here, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hybrid microspheres with dual-modal T1/T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been prepared based on microfluidic technique in one step. Gd2O3 and Fe3O4 nanoparticles with a size of ~5 nm act as T1- and T2-weighted MRI contrast agents, respectively, which are simultaneously in-situ synthesized in the PVA matrix via the reaction of metal ions and alkali with PVA chains as a soft template. Meanwhile, these metallic-oxide nanoparticles act as cross-linker to gelatinize the PVA droplets to obtain nano-in-micro PVA microspheres in one step. This procedure is simple, economic and feasible. The obtained nano-in-micro PVA microspheres show good magnetothermal effect, enhanced T1- and T2-weighted MRI and embolization effect.

The role of metallic clips in transcatheter intravascular embolization for non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding cases receiving unmanageable endoscopic therapy: A retrospective cohort study

IntroductionThis study aims to explore whether metallic clips could be a kind of localizer and guider in transcatheter arterial embolization for patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, who received an unmanageable endoscopic therapy. MethodsA total of 18 patients with non-variceal hemorrhage of the upper gastrointestinal tract, who received an unmanageable endoscopic therapy at *** Hospital of **** Province from July 2010 to December 2016, were included into this study. One or two metallic clips were placed on the margin of the bleeding point to be a mark during the endoscopic therapy. Then, all patients were immediately transferred to have an emergent upper gastrointestinal angiography. Bleeding vessels were embolized when found according to the guidance of the metallic clips. After the procedure, any changes of the patient's condition were closely observed and recorded. ResultsThe average transcatheter arterial embolization therapy time was 31 min, 17 patients immediately had a successful result, and the success rate of the arterial embolization therapy was 94.44%. However, the bleeding could not be stopped in one patient. This patient was transferred and underwent a surgical operation to stop the bleeding. ConclusionMetallic clips could play an important role in accurately locating the bleeding vessel during the trans catheter arterial embolization therapy. Furthermore, it could also improve the success rate of stopping the bleeding during intravascular embolization therapy, and shorten the time of intravascular embolization therapy.

63. Partial splenic artery embolization therapy in hemophilia a with decompensated cld causing hypersplenism: caution to hepatologists- a case report

Background and Aims: Partial splenic artey embolization (PSE) have been prescribed extensively by hepatologists to avoid splenectomy in special case of hemophilia A and to improve symptoms and hematological indices, and to also decrease CLD decompensation. Splenomegaly is a common sequela of cirrhosis, and is frequently associated with decreased hematologic indices including pancytopenia. In liver tissues after PSE, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive hepatocytes were remarkably increased, speculating that PSE induced liver regenerative response and regularly monitoring of symptoms are required. Case Summary: A 41 Year old, male known case of Hemophilia A with decompensated cirrhosis with portal hypertension with hypersplenism (pancytopenia) secondary to hepatitis C [MELD Na-12, CTP-9/B] presented with 3 month history of dyspnoea of exertion (DOE) with malena with progressive developement oedema in both lower extremities and abdominal distention, requiring support while walking. On further evaluation, normal renal function, hypoalbuminemia and first time detected as anti HCV POSITIVE and found to have elevated HCV RNA load 145000, with genotype 3, factor VIII assay <15 obtained. Patient was diagnosed with HCV related decompensated cirrhosis of liver with portal hypertension induced hypersplenism. After patient underwent partial splenic artery embolization, patient's symptoms improved and he had decreased ascites and pedal edema and improved hematological indices over a period of a 3 month. Conclusions: Partial splenic artery embolization has a great potential in the management of hypersplenism due to liver cirrhosis. Partial splenic artery embolization is particularly valuable amongst those cirrhotic patients who are not viable candidates for splenectomy in special case like hemophilia A. The author has none to declare.

Progression of Treated versus Untreated Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System Category 4 Masses after Transcatheter Arterial Embolization Therapy

PurposeTo compare outcomes of treated vs untreated Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System category 4 (LR-4) masses after transcatheter arterial embolization. Materials and MethodsIn 167 patients undergoing embolization for HCC from January 2005 to December 2012, LR-4 masses were retrospectively identified on CT and MR imaging examinations performed before embolization. In 149 patients undergoing embolization from January 2013 to December 2016, masses prospectively classified as LR-4 were identified. In total, there were 81 LR-4 masses in 62 patients (16 women; mean age 62 y; range 29-83 y). Procedures were reviewed to determine whether LR-4 masses were within or outside the liver volume that received embolization during treatment of dominant masses. Time to progression to LR-5 and by modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) was estimated for treated vs untreated LR-4 masses using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log rank test. ResultsLR-4 masses averaged 1.8 cm; 88%, 60%, 14%, and 14% demonstrated arterial phase hyperenhancement, washout, a capsule, and growth. Of LR-4 masses, 62 were within the liver volume that received embolization and considered treated, and 19 were outside and considered untreated. Response rates according to mRECIST were 37% vs 21% for treated vs untreated masses (P = .27). The 6- and 12-month rates of progression to LR-5 were 7% and 26% for treated masses vs 27% and 75% for untreated masses (P = .001). According to mRECIST, 7% and 27% of treated masses progressed vs 30% and 65% of untreated masses (P = .001). ConclusionsLR-4 masses that receive embolization in the setting of dominant masses elsewhere show lower rates of progression compared with untreated masses.

3:27 PM Abstract No. 204 Cost analysis of geniculate artery embolization versus conservative therapy for pain secondary to knee osteoarthritis

3:27 PM Abstract No. 204 Cost analysis of geniculate artery embolization versus conservative therapy for pain secondary to knee osteoarthritis

131I-Labeled Copper Sulfide-Loaded Microspheres to Treat Hepatic Tumors via Hepatic Artery Embolization.

Purpose: Transcatheter hepatic artery embolization therapy is a minimally invasive alternative for treating inoperable liver cancer but recurrence is frequent. Multifunctional agents, however, offer an opportunity for tumor eradication. In this study, we were aim to synthesized poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres encapsulating hollow CuS nanoparticles (HCuSNPs) and paclitaxel (PTX) that were then labeled with radioiodine-131 (131I) to produce 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX. This compound combines the multi-theranostic properties of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and photothermal therapy. In addition, it can also be imaged with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging and photoacoustic imaging.Methods: We investigated the value of therapeutic and imaging of 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX in rats bearing Walker-256 tumor transplanted in the liver. After the intra-arterial (IA) injection of 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX, 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) micro-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (micro-PET/CT) imaging was used to monitor the therapeutic effect. PET/CT findings were verified by immunohistochemical analysis. SPECT/CT and photoacoustic imaging were performed to demonstrate the distribution of 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX in vivo.Results: We found that embolization therapy in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy and photothermal therapy offered by 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX completely ablated the transplanted hepatic tumors at a relatively low dose. In comparison, embolization monotherapy or combination with one or two other therapies had less effective anti-tumor efficacy. The combination of SPECT/CT and photoacoustic imaging effectively confirmed microsphere delivery to the targeted tumors in vivo and guided the near-infrared laser irradiation.Conclusion: Our study suggests that there is a clinical theranostic potential for imaging-guided arterial embolization with 131I-HCuSNPs-MS-PTX for the treatment of liver tumors.

The angiographic characteristics and transcatheter arterial embolization therapy of Kasabach-Merritt syndrome

Objective To analyze the angiographic characteristics of Kasabach-Merritt syndrome (KMS) and study the value of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) in KMS therapy. Methods The clinical data of 36 infants with KMS treated between June 2010 and June 2016 in our hospital were reviewed retrospectively. All infants performed angiography and TAE therapy. These angiographic characteristics were analyzed by comparing with infantile hemangioma (IH). The times of TAE and the level of platelet after TAE therapy were observed. Results The angiographic characteristics of KMS were as follows: The capillary blush of KMS were ill defined with no-uniform distribution. There were a lot of very fine feeding arteries. The diameter of feeding artery was disproportionate to the volume of tumor blush because the feeding arteries were too small or fine. Normal artery was usually embedded in tumor blush. However, the angiographic characteristics of IH were different as follows: the capillary blush of IH were well defined with uniform distribution. There were about 1-4 feeding arteries. The diameter of feeding artery was proportional to the volume of tumor blush. Normal artery was not embedded in tumor blush. Tumor blush was usually located beside the normal artery. In 36 patients, 107 embolization treatments were performed. The platelet declined for 11 times and increased for 96 times after TAE therapy. The platelet count for these 96 cases increased to ≥100×109/L at (7.1±2.4) days following therapy. However, the platelet level fluctuated thereafter and the average relapse time was (45.9±21.8) days. All cases were followed-up ranging from 6 months to 2 years and finally received other therapies. Eight cases were cured and the other 28 cases were improved. Conclusions The angiographic characteristics of KMS are different from common infantile hemangioma. It is difficult to embolize the feeding arteries of KMS because there are a lot of very fine feeding arteries. TAE may rapidly improve the level of platelets while the long term effect was poor. It might be better to combine TAE with other medical therapies to treat KMS. Key words: Hemangioma; Embolization, therapeutic; Angiography; Kasabach-Merritt syndrome; Infantile hemangioma

Treatment of refractory Kasabach-Merritt syndrome with transcatheter arterial embolization plus sirolimus therapy

Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of transcather arterial embolization (TAE) plus sirolimus for the treatment of refractory Kasabach-Merritt syndrome (KMS) in infants. Methods Clinical data of twelve infants with refractory KMS treated between December 2015 and October 2016 in a single hospital were retrospectively analyzed. TAE were performed in all patients after failed traditional multiple therapies, followed by oral sirolimus administration. The dose of sirolimus was modulated according to the level of sirolimus, the count of platelet, the shrinkage of the lesion and the side effects, which were monitored regularly during the study. Results All 12 patients were treated with TAE plus sirolimus therapies successfully. The platelet count for all patients increased to ≥ 100×109/L for the first time at (7±5) days. Stabilization of platelet level was obtained in (15±7) days averagely. Before the treatment, two infants had a normal fibrinogen level and the fibrinogen level in the other 10 infants was found to be increased to ≥2.0 g/L at (9±4) days for the first time and was then stabilized at levels>2.0 g/L at (19±7) days after treatment. One patient showed skin fester (Grade Ⅱ), one patient had a fever with acute pulmonary infection (Grade Ⅲ) and both patients improved well after symptomatic treatment. There were no serious complications in the other ten patients. Conclusions TAE plus sirolimus can rapidly improve levels of platelets and fibrinogen, and it is a safe, useful and effective method for treatment of refractory KMS in infants. Key words: Kasabach-Merritt syndrome; Sirolimus; Radiology, interventional

Abstract 500: Treatment of Arterial Embolization for Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations With and Without Osler Disease

Purpose: We report cases with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVM) treated with transcatheter arterial embolization. The clinical features of PAVM and the indication, techniques and longterm outcome of the embolization therapy were assessed. Patients: Six patients (age ranges from 44 to 67, five women and a man) had diagnosed as PAVM. Two patients diagnosed as definite HHT: Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (Rendu-Osler-Weber Syndrome) with epistaxis and family history and one as possible HHT associating hemorrhagic skin telangiectasias and abnormally enlarged the internal thoracic artery. Indication of the pulmonary arterial embolization therapy: Four patients had the episodes of cerebral infarction, one developed cerebellar ataxia, and another patient was proved the decreased PaO 2 . Two patients revealed the enlargement of PAVM. CT and 3-dimensional CT angiography (CTA) was obtained on 64-multi-detector row unit (Toshiba, Aquilion64, Japan) with bolus injection of contrast agent. The transcatheter pulmonary arterial embolization was performed with microcatheter system (TERUMO, Japan) and 0.035 coils of 6, 4, 3mm in diameter (Boston Scientific, USA). Results: After the selective catheterization for PAVM, all feeding arteries &gt;3 mm in diameter was embolized. Since coil size selection was crucial for the safe and productive procedure, the size of feeding arteries had been carefully estimated on CTA date in advance. All patients were successfully treated without any problems during and after the procedure. One patient with HHT, three years after the treatment of 4.3cm PAVM, showed the recurrent PAVM of 0.5mm in diamete. The other patient showed a small vessel emerged distal to the embolized PAVM draining to the pulmonary vein. These lesions were too small to consider the clinical management and had been followed up with no change. Conclusion: The pulmonary arterial embolization therapy for PAVM was discussed. The treatments were successful, however, some recurrences were noted. We did not thoroughly embolized the distal side of PAVM because to minimize the normal lung damage and to avoid the migration of coils. Deliberate clinical follow-up should be required and should apply the additional treatment, if necessary.

Hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm: A clinical and pathological experience in diagnosis and treatment.

Hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm (PEComa) is a rare type of neoplasm derived from mesenchymal tumors that is often misdiagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatic hemangioma or other liver malignancies. The clinical and histological characteristics of PEComa have yet to be fully documented. To optimize the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, a retrospective analysis was performed to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics of 7 patients diagnosed with hepatic PEComa in the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital between January 2004 and December 2015. Briefly, all the patients lacked specific symptoms, and a serological examination provided no further useful information. Additionally, non-specific imaging manifestations were observed. Microscopically, detection of epithelioid or spindle-shaped cells with adipocytes was suggestive of the disease, and an analysis of biomarkers, including the monoclonal antibody HMB-45, the melanocytic differentiation marker, Melan-A, and smooth muscle α-actin (SMA), helped to confirm the diagnosis. Regarding the treatment, 6 patients (85.7%) received surgical resection procedures, and 1 patient (14.3%) was admitted for tumor arterial embolization and percutaneous microwave coagulation therapy. After a follow-up period of 12–20 months, no recurrence was observed. Taken together, hepatic PEComa should be suspended in patients with a liver tumor with asymptomatic manifestation and normal serological test results. In imaging studies, hepatic PEComa was able to mimic HCC, hepatic hemangioma and metastatic tumor, although the mass did not invade the adjacent organs and vessel. The definitive diagnosis was made on the basis of the typical morphological features and notable markers of the tumor tissue. It is recommended that patients with PEComa in a benign pattern deserve serial imaging follow-up, but surgery is indicated in patients suffering from large tumors (>5 cm), or progressive enlargement or malignant tendency.

Abstract No. 32 - FEATURED ABSTRACT Progression of treated versus untreated liver imaging reporting and data system category 4 (LI-RADS 4) lesions after transcatheter arterial embolization therapy

Abstract No. 32 - FEATURED ABSTRACT Progression of treated versus untreated liver imaging reporting and data system category 4 (LI-RADS 4) lesions after transcatheter arterial embolization therapy

Laparoscopic Management of Huge Myoma Nascendi

Study ObjectiveTo demonstrate the feasibility of laparoscopic management of a huge myoma nascendi. DesignStep-by-step video demonstration of the surgical procedure (Canadian Task Force classification III-C). SettingUterine myoma is the most common benign neoplasm of the female reproductive tract, with an estimated incidence of 25% to 30% at reproductive age [1,2]. Patients generally have no symptoms; however, those with such symptoms as severe pelvic pain, heavy uterine bleeding, or infertility may be candidates for surgery. The traditional management is surgery; however, uterine artery embolization or hormonal therapy using a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist or a selective estrogen receptor modulator should be preferred as the medical approach. Surgical management should be performed via laparoscopy or laparotomy; however, the use of laparoscopic myomectomy is being debated for patients with huge myomas. Difficulties in the excision, removal, and repair of myometrial defects, increased operative time, and blood loss are factors keeping physicians away from laparoscopic myomectomy [1,2]. InterventionsA 35-year-old woman was admitted to our clinic with complaints of chronic pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. Her medical history included multiple hospitalizations for blood transfusions, along with a recently measured hemoglobin level of 9.5 g/dL and a hematocrit value of 29%. She had never been married and had no children. Pelvic ultrasonography revealed a 12 × 10-cm uterine myoma located on the posterior side of the corpus uteri and protruding through to the cervical channel. This was a huge intramural submucous myoma in close proximity to the endometrial cavity and spreading through the myometrium. On vaginal examination, the myoma was found to extend into the vagina through the cervical channel. Laparoscopic myomectomy was planned because of the patient's desire for fertility preservation. Abdominopelvic exploration revealed a huge myoma filling the posterior side of the corpus uteri and extending to the isthmus uteri and cervical channel. A myomectomy was performed using standard technique as described elsewhere. A vertical incision was made using a harmonic scalpel. The myoma was fixed with a corkscrew manipulator and enucleated. During the procedure, the endometrial cavity was torn and was closed with 2-0 Vicryl separately. Total intraoperative blood loss was 250 mL, the total weight of the myoma was 245 g, and the operation lasted about 120 minutes. The patient experienced no intraoperative complications. She was discharged on postoperative day 1 and did not exhibit any problems at follow-up. The final histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of uterine leiomyoma. ConclusionLaparoscopic management of huge myomas in difficult locations appears to be a feasible and safe surgical option, especially in experienced hands.

Laparoscopic Management of Huge Cervical Myoma

Study ObjectiveTo demonstrate the feasibility of laparoscopic management of a huge cervical myoma. DesignStep-by-step video demonstration of the surgical procedure (Canadian Task Force classification III-C). SettingUterine myoma is the most common benign neoplasm of the female reproductive tract, with an estimated incidence of 25% to 30% at reproductive age [1,2]. Patients generally have no symptoms; however, those with such symptoms as severe pelvic pain, heavy uterine bleeding, or infertility may be candidates for surgery. The traditional management is surgery; however, uterine artery embolization or hormonal therapy using a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist or a selective estrogen receptor modulator should be preferred as the medical approach. Surgical management should be performed via laparoscopy or laparotomy; however, the use of laparoscopic myomectomy is being debated for patients with huge myomas. Difficulties in the excision, removal, and repair of myometrial defects, increased operative time, and blood loss are factors keeping physicians away from laparoscopic myomectomy [1,2]. InterventionsA 40-year-old gravida 0, para 0 woman was admitted to our clinic with complaints of chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, and infertility. Her health history was unremarkable. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a 14 × 10-cm myoma in the cervical region. On bimanual examination, an immobile solid mass originating from the uterine cervix and filling the pouch of Douglas was palpated. The patient was informed of the findings, and laparoscopic myomectomy was recommended because of her desire to preserve her fertility. Abdominopelvic examination revealed a huge myoma filling and enlarging the cervix. Myomectomy was performed using standard technique as described elsewhere. A transverse incision was made using a harmonic scalpel. The myoma was fixed with a corkscrew manipulator and enucleated. Once bleeding was controlled, the myoma bed was filled with Spongostan to prevent possible bleeding from leakage. Owing to the anatomic structure of the cervical region, the incision was closed in a monolayer with 0 Vicryl. Total intraoperative blood loss was 300 mL, the total weight of the myoma was 670 g, and the operation lasted approximately 140 minutes. The patient experienced no intraoperative complications. She was discharged on postoperative day 1 and did not exhibit any problems at follow-up. The final histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of uterine leiomyoma. ConclusionLaparoscopic management of huge myomas in difficult locations such as the cervical region seems to be a feasible and safe surgical option, especially in experienced hands.

Short article: Management of ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma in a European tertiary care center.

Spontaneous rupture is a rare complication of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Treatment options consist of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE), hepatic resection, and conservative therapy. The best approach is under debate. This study presents a review of clinical data of patients with a ruptured HCC admitted to a European tertiary care center. Eleven patients were included; six (55%) had underlying cirrhosis. The majority of patients (73%) had no previous history of HCC. Spontaneous HCC rupture was diagnosed using abdominal computed tomography with or without a diagnostic paracentesis. Computed tomography showed one or two tumors in eight (73%) patients; the other patients had multiple tumors or diffuse infiltrative HCC. Seven (64%) patients were initially treated by TAE and one (9%) patient underwent hepatic resection. The remaining three (27%) patients, all of whom had liver cirrhosis, received conservative therapy. Two patients initially treated by TAE underwent a delayed resection and ultimately received systemic therapy. Overall, at the end of the follow-up period, three patients were still alive at 84, 991, and 1026 days after the initial presentation. Eight (73%) patients had died after a median of 88 days (range 7-417). One year after presentation, none of the conservatively treated patients was alive compared with three out of seven (43%) patients treated with TAE with or without delayed resection. Patients with a spontaneously ruptured HCC have a poor prognosis. In selected patients, however, prolonged survival is possible using TAE as initial therapy with or without a delayed resection and systemic therapy.

Systematic review of outcomes after distal pancreatectomy with coeliac axis resection for locally advanced pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer involving the coeliac axis is considered unresectable by most guidelines, with a median survival of 6-11 months. A subgroup of these patients can undergo distal pancreatectomy with coeliac axis resection, but consensus on the value of this procedure is lacking. The evidence for this procedure, including the impact of preoperative hepatic artery embolization and (neo)adjuvant therapy, was evaluated. A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines until 27 May 2015. The primary endpoint was overall survival; secondary endpoints included morbidity and radical resection rates. A total of 19 retrospective studies, involving 240 patients, were included. The methodological quality of the studies ranged from poor to moderate. A radical resection was reported in 74·5 per cent (152 of 204), major morbidity in 27 per cent (26 of 96), ischaemic morbidity in 9·0 per cent (21 of 223) and 90-day mortality in 3·5 per cent (4 of 113). Overall, 35·5 per cent of patients (55 of 155) underwent preoperative hepatic artery embolization without an apparent beneficial impact on ischaemic morbidity. Overall, 15·7 per cent (29 of 185) had neoadjuvant and 51·0 per cent (75 of 147) had adjuvant therapy. There was a difference in survival between patient series where less than half of patients had (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy and series where more than half were receiving this treatment: case-weighted median overall survival was 16 (range 9-48) versus 18 (10-26) months respectively (P = 0·002). Overall median survival for the whole study population was 14·4 (range 9-48) months. Distal pancreatectomy with coeliac axis resection seems a valuable option for selected patients with pancreatic cancer involving the coeliac axis with acceptable morbidity and mortality, and a median survival of 18 months when combined with (neo)adjuvant therapy.

Transarterial embolization of renal VX2 tumors with liquid embolic agent poly 2-hydroxymethyl methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate in a rabbit model

Objective To study the feasibility and effectiveness of liquid embolic agent HEMA-MMA in the arterial embolization therapy for the rabbit renal VX2 tumor models. Methods Renal VX2 tumor models were inoculated with the method of percutaneous CT-guided implantation of a small fragment of tumor into the inferior pole of the right kidney and were embolized when the max diameter was 1.5 cm. One model was embolized with the mixture of HEMA-MMA and carbonyl iron powder and was harvested immediately after embolization, the sample was fixed by paraformaldehyde for histopathological examination with methylene blue staining and HE staining to demonstrate the sizes of the vessels that the HEMA-MMA could reach. The remaining models were treated with pure HEMA-MMA by superselective or nonselective embolization (SSE or NSE). In SSE group, only the renal artery branch supplying the tumor was superselectively catheterized and embolized until the presence of artery casting change. In NSE group, the microcatheter was catheterized into the main renal artery then the whole renal artery branches and the renal capsular artery were embolized simultaneously until the presence of artery casting shape. Non-enhanced CT scans at immediate postoperation, on postoperative day 1 and day 3 were performed. The enhanced CT scans at the postoperative 1, 2, 4 and 6 weeks were performed. Necrotic zone of the tumor was defined as non-enhancement in parenchyma phase, residual tumor was defined as delayed enhancement around the necrotic zone or obvious thickness and enhancement of the adjacent renal capsule. When detecting residual tumor, the model was followed up another 1 week and then harvested for histopathological examination. If there was no residual tumor and lung metastasis in 6 weeks follow-up after operation, we defined this as complete necrosis and then harvested the kidney for histopathological examination. Results Eleven of the 12 rabbits were successfully inoculated VX2 tumors. The mixture of HEMA-MMA and carbonyl iron powder deposited in the arterial vessels demonstrated mazarine in methylene blue staining and brownness in HE staining. The diameter of the tumor vessels which the agent could reach was 30—150 μm, there was no embolic agent detected in the venous blood vessels. 5 models were performed with superselective embolization and the other 5 were embolized with nonselective embolization. The embolic agent demonstrated high density and obviously deposited in the surrounding zone of the tumor on immediate postoperative CT images, density of the surrounding zone decreased accompanied by density increase in the central area of the tumor on the first day postoperative CT images. Density difference between the embolism zone and normal renal tissue disappeared on the third day postoperative CT images accompanied by swelling changes of the embolized area. Residual tumor was detected in all 5 superselectively treated cases (2 in 1 week, 3 in 2 weeks), which located in the area of junctional zone and subrenal capsule. The necrotic zone was demonstrated coagulative necrosis on histopathologic images, the boundary between the residual tumor and the necrotic zone was clearly showed both on histopathologic images and gross specimen. Renal capsular artery participating in the residual tumor blood supply was also shown on gross specimen. There was no residual tumor and lung metastasis detected in nonselective treated group during the period of 6 weeks follow-up. Atrophy of the whole tumor-burdened kidney was shown on gross specimen and complete coagulative necrosis of the total tumor and the renal capsule adjacent to the tumor was demonstrated on histopathologic images. Conclusions Liquid embolic agent HEMA-MMA can embolize tumor blood vessels with a diameter of 30—150 μm. The renal capsular artery participates in the blood supply of the VX2 kidney tumor, so only superselective embolization of the renal artery branch with this liquid embolic agent may not induce the whole necrosis of the tumor, but complete necrosis of the tumor can be obtained by embolizing of all the tumor vessels and the adjacent normal renal arteries with this liquid embolic agent. Key words: Kidney neoplasms; Embolization, therapeutic; Rabbits

经导管肝动脉栓塞技术在创伤性肝破裂出血治疗中的价值

目的：探讨经导管肝动脉栓塞技术在创伤性肝破裂出血治疗中的价值。方法：回顾性分析我院2012年4月至2015年4月收治的57例创伤性肝破裂出血患者，依据治疗方法将这些患者随机分为两组，即研究组(n = 28)和对照组(n = 29)。介入组患者为经导管肝动脉栓塞技术及腹腔引流术治疗，对两组患者的术中输血量、术后住院时间及并发症发生情况进行统计分析。结果：和开放手术组相比，介入组患者的术中输血量明显较少(P < 0.05)，术后住院时间明显较短(P < 0.05)，术后并发症发生率35.7%显著低于对照组58.6% (P < 0.05)。结论：经导管肝动脉栓塞技术在创伤性肝破裂出血治疗中具有较高的应用价值，值得在临床推广。 Objective: To investigate the value of transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization in the treatment of traumatic hepatic rupture. Methods: 57 cases of patients with liver trauma bleeding who were treated in our hospital from April 2012 to April 2015 were selected. These patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment methods, namely the interventional therapy group (n = 28) and the open surgery group (n = 29). The interventional therapy group of patients were given transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization therapy and peritoneal drainage, and then the intraoperative blood transfusion, postoperative hospital stay and complications of the two groups of patients were analyzed statistically. Results: The intraoperative blood transfusion of the interventional therapy group of patients was significantly less than that of the open surgery group (P < 0.05). Postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter (P < 0.05). The postoperative complication rate 35.7% was significantly lower than that of the open surgery group 58.6% (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization is an effective and safe method in the treatment of traumatic hepatic rupture; so it is worthy of promotion in the clinical.

The Role of Spleen Directed Therapy and Predictors of Outcomes with Reduced Intensity Conditioning Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Patients with Primary Myelofibrosis and Splenomegaly

Background: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a potentially curative treatment for primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) allows otherwise ineligible patients to proceed with HSCT. Host factors in PMF such as bone marrow (BM) fibrosis, massive splenomegaly, and transfusion related allo-immunization increase the risk of engraftment failure, especially with RIC. Spleen directed therapy (SDT) is often used in PMF patients with splenomegaly to help with engraftment, however little data exists supporting this practice. This study was carried out to investigate the role for SDT and the predictors of outcomes with RIC HSCT for PMF.Methods :After IRB approval, the Mayo Clinic HSCT registry was queried for patients with PMF that underwent RIC allo-HSCT from 2005-2014. Disease and transplant related data were retrospectively abstracted and analyzed for HSCT related outcomes. SDT was defined as a therapeutic strategy with specific intent to overcome an enlarged spleen prior to HSCT and included splenectomy, splenic artery embolization, splenic irradiation, or JAK inhibitor therapy that was stopped <30 days before HSCT. Survival estimates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and means were compared using the log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Cox regression modeling.Results :51 patients (67% males) with WHO defined PMF with palpable splenomegaly that underwent RIC allo-HSCT were included in the study; median age 57 years (range, 35-68). The median follow-up was 12.2 months, and at last follow up, 19 deaths (37%) and 4 relapses (8%) were documented. The median OS for the group was not reached (mean 34.2 months); 88% at 100 days and 60% at 2 years. 17 deaths were attributed to non-relapse mortality (NRM). There were 3 engraftment failures (6%). 32 patients (63%) developed acute GVHD (grades II-IV) and 24 patients (47%) developed chronic GVHD (all grades).Twenty-one patients (41%) received SDT; 10 (48%) splenectomy, 2 (9%) splenic irradiation, and 9 (43%) JAK inhibitor therapy (ruxolitinib). The SDT group had a median spleen size of 14.5 cm (range, 1-29 cm) below the left costal margin (LCM) and 13 patients (62%) with spleen size >10 cm below LCM, while the no SDT group had a median spleen size of 7 cm (range, 1-19 cm) and 12 patients (40%) with spleen size >10 cm below LCM; p = 0.01. Seven (64%) of 11 patients receiving splenic irradiation (n = 1) or JAK inhibitor therapy (n = 6) were eligible for IWG-MRT spleen response, and 2 (29%) responded (both in JAK inhibitor group). Of the remaining 5 patients, 2 had a response not meeting IWG-MRT criteria.There were no differences in age (p = 0.09), gender (p = 1.0), DIPSS + score (p = 0.35), or HCT-CI (p = 0.61) between the two groups. There was a statistically significant difference in engraftment failure, with all 3 engraftment failures occurring in the SDT group (2 splenectomy patients, 1 splenic irradiation patient; p = 0.02). Engraftment failures were not attributable to insufficient cell dose, donor specific antibodies, or identifiable host factors. The patient with engraftment failure who underwent splenic irradiation had persistent massive splenomegaly. There were similar outcomes with regards to relapse rates, NRM, and acute and chronic GVHD. In the SDT group, the median OS was 13.3 months; 81% at 100 days and 33% at 2 years. In the no SDT group, the median OS was not reached; 94% at 100 days and 68% at 2 years; p=0.13.In a univariate survival analysis that included age, gender, SDT, DIPSS+ score, HCT-CI, CMV status, ABO status, HLA matching, donor source, graft source, engraftment status, and acute and chronic GVHD, predictors of survival were engraftment failure (p = 0.02) and major/bidirectional ABO incompatibility (p = 0.02). Similar results were obtained when JAK inhibitor therapy was considered separately from other forms of SDT. In a multivariate analysis, engraftment failure (HR 8.2, 1.8-27.2; p = 0.01) and major/bidirectional ABO incompatibility (HR 4.1, 1.4-10.9; p = 0.009) retained independent prognostic significance.Discussion:In patients with PMF and splenomegaly, there was no demonstrable benefit from SDT. Predictors of post-HSCT survival included engraftment failure and major/bidirectional ABO incompatibility. These findings need validation in a larger cohort of patients. DisclosuresAl-Kali:Celgene: Research Funding. Mesa:Gilead: Research Funding; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Consultancy; NS Pharma: Research Funding.

Therapeutic effects of uterine artery embolisation (UAE) and methotrexate (MTX) conservative therapy used in treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy.

Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a rare and severe complication after cesarean section. The incidence of CSP has been increased significantly in recent years. In this retrospective case study of 131 CSP patients, the therapeutic effects and prognosis were compared between the two treatment groups: uterine artery embolization and systemic methotrexate injection conservative therapy. In addition, the necessary of subsequent dilation and curettage as a further treatment was also evaluated. The 131 CSP patients were assigned into two groups receiving uterine artery embolization (UAE) or MTX conservative therapy. Based on patients' myometrial thickness and reducing degree of β-hCG level, each of the two treatment group was further divided into two subgroups according to whether the patient received subsequent dilation and curettage as further treatment. The therapeutic effect of two treatment groups was compared. The results indicated that both UAE and MTX conservative treatment achieved the expected therapeutic effect, and the recovery time in dilation and curettage subgroup was significantly shorter than that of the non-curettage subgroup. One hundred and thirty patients resumed normal menstrual cycles within 3-10 months after the treatment. The individualized therapeutic regimen is an important factor to achieve the desired therapeutic effect based on the specific indications. Dilation and curettage could shorten the recovery time significantly.