Procedural Complications Research Articles

Non-palpable Pulmonary Nodules and Uniportal-VATS: Radio-guided Localization (ROLL) Experience of a Lung Multidisciplinary Team.

Surgical resection with a minimally invasive approach is the standard for diagnosing and treating solitary pulmonary nodules. A computed tomography (CT)-guided technetium99m-macroaggregated albumin (99mTc-MAA) injection-based procedure has been employed for small and non-palpable lung nodule radio-guided preoperative localization (ROLL). This procedure is usually followed by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). This study retrospectively evaluated the feasibility, clinicopathologic outcomes, and complications of this localization radio-guided procedure followed by uniportal VATS. This retrospective study included 63 patients with suspicious lung nodules who underwent 99mTc-MAA CT-guided localization before uniportal VATS. The analysis examined the imaging and procedure characteristics, procedural risks, successful intra-operative localization, wedge resection, conversion from VATS to open thoracotomy, the reason, and histological diagnosis for each nodule. Also, it was evaluated how nodule and procedure features affected successful intra-operative localization. All patients were diagnosed using a CT scan, and 90.4% had a PET scan at basal staging. A round-glass morphology was present in 9.6% of cases, whereas most had a solid appearance. The mean nodule size was 9.78 mm (maximal tumoral diameter) with a 1-23 mm range. The mean distance from the pleural surface was 15.6 mm (range=1-117 mm). The detection rate of the 99mTc-MAA CT-guided localization procedure was 100%. Surgical procedures were uniportal VATS and transpleural thoracoscopy in 52 (82.5%) and 11 (17.5%) patients, respectively. The intraoperative localization rate was 98.4%. Pneumothorax represented the most frequent complication (6.3%), with one case clinically significant and three only with minimal radiological evidence. Pathology confirmed radical excision in all cases. Lung nodule localization with CT-guided 99mTc-MAA followed by uniportal VATS is feasible with a high success rate and low complication rate.

“But I’m not a professional” − How women with high-risk pregnancies voice the experiences of home-based telemonitoring; a qualitative interview study

ObjectivesTelemonitoring of high-risk pregnancy complications is a new approach that offers remote obstetric caregiving using mobile and wireless technologies. New evidence shows that home-based obstetric telemonitoring is not only feasible but also a safe alternative to inpatient or frequent outpatient care. As little is known how performing obstetric telemonitoring is perceived, this study examined how women with pregnancy complications experienced performing home-based telemonitoring. MethodsA qualitative, semi-structured interview study was conducted with women with ongoing experience in performing home-based telemonitoring procedures for high-risk pregnancy complications. Purposeful sampling strategy and data saturation were applied followed by verbatim transcription. The data were analyzed using systematic text condensation. ResultsFifteen informants participated in the study and four major themes emerged. The study revealed that performing telemonitoring was overall positively experienced as an ‘Empowering yet challenging responsibility’ as well as an ‘Extended patient-clinician partnership.’ There were pros and cons as to the influence of telemonitoring in everyday life; ‘Tele-comfort yet ambivalence’ and that it could be accompanied by annoying practical issues; ‘Accompanying remote issues.’ ConclusionsPerforming obstetric telemonitoring was experienced as an empowering yet challenging responsibility as well as an extended partnership between the clinician and the pregnant woman. Pros and cons were voiced as to the influence and ambivalence of telemonitoring in everyday life, and that it could be accompanied by annoying practical issues. Patient aspects and experiences of telemonitoring are important clinical knowledge that must be considered when a telemonitoring plan is tailored preferably in a shared decision-making process.

Complications in Patients with Surgically Altered Gastrointestinal Anatomy Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: 15-Year Experience at a Tertiary Care Center in Latin America.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a common procedure, but it poses challenges in patients with surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy (SAGA). Alternative techniques like single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE), double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE), or push enteroscopy (PE) have been used, albeit with potential complications. Limited Latin American data exists on ERCP complications in SAGA patients. Our goal is to describe complications of ERCP in SAGA at a national referral institution. Retrospective, single-center cohort study. All SAGA ERCP procedures performed at the Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Department of the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán from January 2008 to May 2023 were included. Extracted data from records included procedure specifics, endoscope type, success, and complications. Complications were evaluated during procedure and 28-day post-procedure and classified using the AGREE system. A total of 266 procedures in 174 patients were included, 74% were women, and the median age was 44years. Predominant modified anatomy was Roux-en-Y biliary reconstruction (79%), followed by Whipple procedure (13%) and subtotal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction (6.0%). The main indications were cholangitis with stricture (31%), stricture (19%), and cholangitis (19%). DBE was used in 89%, PE in 7.5%, and SBE in 3.4%. Success rates were 77% endoscopic, 72% technical, and 69% therapeutic; in 30%, the procedure was unsuccessful. Complications happened in 18% of cases, most commonly cholangitis (7.5%), followed by perforation (2.6%) and hemorrhage (1.9%). According to the AGREE classification, 10.9% were grades 1 and 2, 6.4% were grade 3, and 0.4% were grade 4 complications. No significant differences emerged between groups with and without complications. Procedures increased over time, but complications and unsuccessful procedures remained stable. ERCP complications align with international data, often not requiring invasive treatment. Enhanced exposure to such cases correlates with fewer complications and failures. Prospective studies are essential to identify complication and failure predictors.

Pre-Cut Papillotomy Versus Endoscopic Ultrasound-Rendezvous for Difficult Biliary Cannulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Various endoscopic techniques are employed to achieve biliary cannulation when confronted with difficult biliary access. Every procedure carries its own risk in terms of bleeding, infection, pancreatitis, and cholangitis. Our meta-analysis aimed to compare pre-cut papillotomy and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-rendezvous in terms of technical success rates, and post-procedure pancreatitis and bleeding. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that compared pre-cut papillotomy and EUS-rendezvous. The primary outcome was technical success by achieving biliary cannulation. Secondary outcomes were postoperative pancreatitis and bleeding. A random-effects model was used to calculate the risk ratios (RRs) and confidence intervals (CIs). A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Our meta-analysis included four studies comparing pre-cut papillotomy and EUS-rendezvous. The studies included 13,659 total endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures, of whom 1,004 patients underwent alternate biliary cannulation procedures due to difficult biliary cannulation. The mean age of the study population was noted to be 49.5 years and males represented 53.3% of the total participants. Both procedures were similar in terms of technical success (RR: 0.95, 95% CI (0.88, 1.02)). No difference was found between rates of post procedure pancreatitis (RR: 1.82, 95% CI (0.80, 4.15)) and post procedure bleeding (RR: 2.80, 95% CI (0.67, 11.66)). There was no difference in technical success of procedure or post-procedure complications such as pancreatitis and bleeding between pre-cut papillotomy and EUS-rendezvous technique. More randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to compare both procedural techniques and complications rates. However, currently, both procedures are equally effective and safe during difficult biliary cannulation in the hands of experienced endoscopists.

Impact of the use of plaque modification techniques on coronary microcirculation using an angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance.

Many lesions in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) exhibit significant calcification. Several techniques have been developed to improve outcomes in this setting. However, their impact on coronary microcirculation remains unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of plaque modification techniques on coronary microcirculation across patients with severely calcified coronary artery disease. In this multicenter retrospective study, consecutive patients undergoing PCI with either Rotablation (RA) or Shockwave-intravascular-lithotripsy (IVL) were included. Primary endpoint was the impairment of coronary microvascular resistances assessed by Δ angiography-derived index of microvascular resistance (ΔIMRangio) which was defined as the difference in IMRangio value post- and pre-PCI. Secondary endpoints included the development of peri procedural PCI complications (flow-limiting coronary dissection, slow-flow/no reflow during PCI, coronary perforation, branch occlusion, failed PCI, stroke and shock developed during PCI) and 12-month follow-up adverse events. 162 patients were included in the analysis. Almost 80% of patients were male and the left descending anterior artery was the most common treated vessel. Both RA and IVL led to an increase in ΔIMRangio (22.3 and 10.3; p = 0.038, respectively). A significantly higher rate of PCI complications was observed in patients with ΔIMRangio above the median of the cohort (21.0% vs. 6.2%; p = 0.006). PCI with RA was independently associated with higher ΔIMRangio values (OR 2.01, 95% CI: 1.01-4.03; p = 0.048). Plaque modification with IVL and RA during PCI increases microvascular resistance. Evaluating the microcirculatory status in this setting might help to predict clinical and procedural outcomes and to optimize clinical results.

A stepwise scheme for the optimization implementation of lazy wave dynamic cables

The dynamic cables are usually designed to present a complex layout to improve service life and safety in commercial scale floating applications. It is urgent to establish consistent design philosophy and analysis methodologies to provide cost-efficient design requirement. A stepwise scheme for the optimization implementation of lazy wave dynamic cables is proposed and performed with a mass-damping equivalence model. A complicated multi-objective optimal procedure is implemented progressively under hydrostatic state, regular wave state and stochastic sea state. It is validated through a lazy wave dynamic cable (LWDC) from a cylindrical FPSO system under extreme conditions. Stepwise upgraded calibrations based on the coupling of multi-objective optimization modular NSGA-II and lumped mass FEM are applied to assess every sub-objective in defined steps. It is shown that the result is far beyond expectation than initial design after the application of the progressive solution system.

Inverse Optimal Adaptive Neural Control for State-Constrained Nonlinear Systems.

Optimizing a performance objective during control operation while also ensuring constraint satisfactions at all times is important in practical applications. Existing works on solving this problem usually require a complicated and time-consuming learning procedure by employing neural networks, and the results are only applicable for simple or time-invariant constraints. In this work, these restrictions are removed by a newly proposed adaptive neural inverse approach. In our approach, a new universal barrier function, which is able to handle various dynamic constraints in a unified manner, is proposed to transform the constrained system into an equivalent one with no constraint. Based on this transformation, a switched-type auxiliary controller and a modified criterion for inverse optimal stabilization are proposed to design an adaptive neural inverse optimal controller. It is proven that optimal performance is achieved with a computationally attractive learning mechanism, and all the constraints are never violated. Besides, improved transient performance is obtained in the sense that the bound of the tracking error could be explicitly designed by users. An illustrative example verifies the proposed methods.

Percutaneous Repair of Chronic Aortic Pseudoaneurysm: A Single-Center Experience

BackgroundAortic pseudoaneurysm (AP) is a late complication of aortic repair that, without intervention, carries a high mortality rate. Surgical repair has significant in-hospital mortality and high health care costs. Endovascular stent grafting use is currently limited to branch-free aortic segments or the use of complex fenestrated devices. Our objective was to review the literature and share our institution’s experience with AP percutaneous closure by vascular plugs and occluder technology. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed percutaneous AP closure cases published in the literature (2005-2016) and from our institution (2017-2019). The follow-up strategy in our institution group was up to the discretion of the performing physician. We measured the procedure’s safety, complications, and follow-up outcomes. ResultsWe found 40 cases in the literature and 10 at our institution. The procedural success rate was 90% in the literature and 100% in our group. Our group’s average length of stay was 1.9 days with no observed major procedural complications. The literature’s follow-up was generally limited to the hospitalization period. Our patients had a median follow-up time of 12 months (range 3-47 months). Late follow-up of AP demonstrated that sac size remained stable or reduced in 6 patients, but a size increase was observed in 4 patients requiring surgical intervention. Death from nonprocedure-related complications occurred in 40% of our patients. The cost per procedure was hypothetically less than for performing open surgical repair. ConclusionsOur experience shows a viable option for percutaneous AP repair, given its initial safety and cost-effectiveness. Our experience highlights the critical role of follow-up imaging in identifying AP expansion and the need for further intervention. The high nonaorta-related mortality seen in follow-up emphasizes the high-risk nature of the population due to comorbidities.

Angiographic Features of Meningiomas Predicting Extent of Preoperative Embolization.

Preoperative embolization is used as an endovascular adjunct to surgical resection of meningiomas. However, there is no standardized system to assess the efficacy or extent of embolization during the embolization procedure. We sought to establish a purely angiographic grading system to facilitate consistent reporting of the outcome of meningioma embolization and to characterize the anatomic and other features of meningiomas that predict the degree of devascularization achieved through preoperative embolization. We identified patients with meningiomas who underwent preoperative cerebral angiography and subsequent resection between 2015 and 2021. Demographic, clinical, and imaging data were collected in a research registry. We defined an angiographic devascularization grading scale as follows: grade 0 for no embolization, 1 for partial embolization, 2 for majority embolization, 3 for complete external carotid artery embolization, and 4 for complete embolization. Eighty consecutive patients were included, 60 of whom underwent preoperative tumor embolization (20 underwent angiography with an intention to treat but ultimately not embolization). Embolized tumors were larger (59.0 vs 35.9 cc; P = .03). Gross total resection, length of stay, and complication rates did not differ among groups. The distribution of arterial feeders differed significantly across tumors in a location-specific manner. Both the tumor location and the identity of arterial feeders were predictive of the extent of embolization. Anterior midline meningiomas were associated with internal carotid (ophthalmic, ethmoidal) supply and lower devascularization grades (P = .03). Tumors fed by meningeal feeders (convexity, falcine, lateral sphenoid wing) were associated with higher devascularization grades (P < .01). The procedural complication rate for tumor embolization was 2.5%. Angiographic outcomes can be graded to indicate the extent of tumor embolization. This system may facilitate consistency of reported angiographic results. In addition, arterial feeders vary in a manner predicted by tumor location, and these patterns correlate with typical degrees of devascularization achieved in those tumor locations.

Effects of a prior failed attempt on the outcomes of subsequent chronic total occlusion‐percutaneous coronary intervention

AbstractObjectivesPatients undergoing a prior failed attempt of chronic total occlusion‐percutaneous coronary intervention (CTO‐PCI) represent a challenging subgroup across all patients undergoing CTO‐PCI. There are limited data on the effects of a prior failed attempt on the outcomes of subsequent CTO‐PCI. We aimed to compare the procedural results and 24‐month outcomes of prior‐failed‐attempt CTO‐PCI with those of initial‐attempt CTO‐PCI.MethodsPatients who underwent attempted CTO‐PCI between January 2017 and December 2019 were prospectively enrolled. We analyzed the procedural results and 24‐month major adverse cardiac events (MACE) between patients who underwent prior‐failed‐attempt and initial‐attempt CTO‐PCI. MACE was defined as a composite of cardiac death, target vessel‐related myocardial infarction, and ischemia‐driven target vessel revascularization (TVR) during follow‐up.ResultsIn total, 484 patients who underwent CTO‐PCI (prior‐failed‐attempt, n = 49; initial‐attempt, n = 435) were enrolled during the study period. After propensity score matching (1:3), 147 patients were included in the initial‐attempt group. The proportion of the Japanese‐CTO (J‐CTO) score ≥2 was higher in the patients who underwent prior failed attempt than in those who underwent initial attempt (77.5% vs. 38.8%, p &lt; 0.001). The retrograde approach was more often adopted in the prior‐failed‐attempt group than in the initial‐attempt group (32.7% vs. 3.4%, [P&lt; 0.001). Successful CTO revascularization rates were significantly lower in the prior‐failed attempt‐group than in the initial attempt group (53.1% vs. 83.3%, P &lt; 0.001). The multivariate analysis revealed that J‐CTO score ≥2 [odds ratio (OR), 0.359; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.159–0.812; P = 0.014], intravascular ultrasound procedure (OR, 4.640; 95% CI, 1.380–15.603; P = 0.013), and prior failed attempt (OR, 0.285; 95% CI, 0.125–0.648; P = 0.003) were the independent predictors for successful CTO revascularization. There were no significant differences in major procedural complications (2.0% vs. 0.7%, p = 0.438) and MACE rates (4.1% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.438) between the groups, mainly due to the TVR rate (4.1% vs. 8.2%, P = 0.522).ConclusionsCompared with initial‐attempt CTO‐PCI, prior‐failed‐attempt CTO‐PCI deserves more attention, since it is associated with a lower successful CTO revascularization rate. Prior failed attempt, J‐CTO score ≥2, and IVUS procedure are the determining factors for predicting successful CTO revascularization. There are no significantly different unfavorable outcomes between patients who undergo prior‐failed‐attempt and initial‐attempt CTO‐PCI.

Effect of magnetic microbeads on sustained and targeted delivery of transforming growth factor-beta-1 for rotator cuff healing in a rat rotator cuff repair model

Structural failure is a well-established complication of rotator cuff repair procedures. To evaluate the effect of magnetic microbeads, designed for precise drug delivery via magnetic force, on sustained transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGF-β1) release and rotator cuff healing in a rat rotator cuff repair model. TGF-β1 laden microbeads were prepared, and baseline in vitro experiments included the magnetization of the microbeads and TGF-β1 release tests. In an in vivo experiment using a rat rotator cuff repair model on both shoulders, 72 rats were randomly assigned to three groups (24 per group): group A, conventional repair; group B, repair with and simple TGF-β1 injection; and group C, repair with magnet insertion into the humeral head and TGF-β1 laden microbead injection. Delivery of TGF-β1 was evaluated at 1 and 7 days after the intervention using PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. At 6 weeks post-intervention, rotator cuff healing was assessed using biomechanical and histological analysis. The in vitro experiments confirmed the magnetization property of the microbeads and sustained delivery of TGF-β1 for up to 10 days. No difference in the TGF-β1 expression was found at day 1 in vivo. However, at day 7, group C exhibited a significantly elevated expression of TGF-β1 in both PCR and Western blot analyses compared to groups A and B (all P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a higher expression of TGF-β1 at the repair site in group C on day 7. At 6 weeks, biomechanical analysis demonstrated a significantly higher ultimate failure load in group C than in groups A and B (P < 0.05) and greater stiffness than in group A (P = 0.045). In addition, histological analysis showed denser and more regular collagen fibers with complete continuity to the bone in group C than in groups A and B, a statistically significant difference according to the semi-quantitative scoring system (all P < 0.05). The use of the TGF-β1 laden magnetic microbeads demonstrated sustained delivery of TGF-β1 to the repair site, improving rotator cuff healing.

One-pot construction of gradient colloidal gel coating for stable and efficient emulsion separation

Gradient gel coatings possess superior interfacial bonding strength and surface wettability, providing new ideas for the structure design of separation materials. However, simply and effectively combining colloidal gels that have excellent separation potential with gradient structure design remains a great challenge. Herein, a polymerization-induced microphase separation strategy based on metal ions is developed for constructing colloidal gel coatings with gradient structure on the stainless steel mesh. The colloidal gel is formed by hydrogen-bond complexation and microphase separation of acrylamide and methacrylic acid during polymerization. The metal ions generated by the hydrogen evolution corrosion of stainless steel mesh can not only be used to construct a continuous gradient structure by influencing the microphase separation process but also enhance the mechanical properties and stability of the gel coating. The preparation strategies of traditional gradient materials are limited in the manufacturing and application processes due to their complicated preparation procedures and potential requirement for special equipment assistance. In contrast, this strategy can simply and efficiently prepare colloidal gel coatings with continuous gradient structure by one-pot method under strict monomer ratio. Its unique colloid network demonstrates better wettability and permeability than conventional polymer gel. The prepared gradient colloidal gel coating exhibits excellent separation efficiency (above 99.9 %) and water flux recovery rate (≈98.75 %) in separating surfactant-stabilized emulsion. Therefore, this work provides new insights into the design and preparation of gradient colloidal gels, promoting their development in the field of water treatment.

A real-world data analysis of ocular adverse events linked to anti-VEGF drugs: a WHO-VigiAccess study.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is key to wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD). Anti-VEGF drugs are the main treatment in clinics. This study assessed ocular adverse events (AE) from anti-VEGF drugs in VigiAccess, WHO's database, and compared adverse drug reaction (ADR) profiles of four drugs to aid personalized treatment choices for optimal benefit and safety. The design was a descriptive retrospective study. We observed four anti-VEGF drugs commonly used in the clinical treatment of wAMD, and their ADR reports came from WHO-VigiAccess. The collected data included the age group, gender, and regional data, as well as the data of disease systems and symptoms caused by ADR recorded in the annual ADR reports and reports received by the WHO. We observed the overall characteristics of the ADR reports of these drugs, then explored the distribution of 27 SOCs of these drugs. Subsequently, we compared the most common ocular ADRs of the drugs. Finally, we compared the commonalities and differences of ocular ADRs related to the drugs. Overall, 57,779 AE associated with the four anti-VEGF drugs were reported. The results showed that the number of females experiencing ADRs (67.83%) was significantly higher than males (32.17%), the age group with the highest reported incidence was over 75years old. More than half of the ADR reports came from the Americas (50.86%). The five most common types of AE were: eye disorders (43.56%), general disorders and administration site conditions (34.47%), injury poisoning and procedural complications (13.36%), infections and infestations (11.61%), nervous system disorders (9.99%). Compared with the other three inhibitors, brolucizumab had a significantly higher rate of ocular ADR reports. The most common ocular ADRs of these four anti-VEGF drugs were mostly related to visual impairment, vision blurred, and blindness. However, there is still a disparity of ADRs between different drugs. The presence of ocular AEs when using anti-VEGF drugs to treat wAMD in clinical practice should attract clinical attention. Clinicians should use these expensive drugs more rationally based on the characteristics of ADRs and develop personalized treatment plans for patients.

Transradial versus transfemoral access for treatment of HCC: a systematic review and meta analysis

Hepatic angiography procedures are essential in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with traditional transfemoral arterial (TFA) access being the traditional standard. Recently, transradial arterial (TRA) access has gained popularity, offering potential benefits. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare TRA and TFA access in hepatic angiography oncologic procedures for HCC. The study investigates fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, patient preferences, and complications associated with each access method. A systematic review was performed using PRISMA guidelines, with 11 studies encompassing 2535 HCC procedures included. Statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4 software. Continuous outcomes were calculated as mean differences, and binary outcomes were measured as odds ratios. Patient preferences, procedural complications, and access site success rates were assessed. The meta-analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, or contrast dose between TRA and TFA. Access failure rates were similar for both methods. However, the odds of adverse events, excluding access failure, were significantly higher for TFA, while the overall rate of complications was comparable. Patients strongly preferred TRA over TFA due to reduced hospital stay and post-procedure discomfort. This meta-analysis supports the use of TRA for hepatic angiography oncologic procedures for HCC with patient preferences in favor of TRA. Additional randomized clinical trials are encouraged to further evaluate the feasibility and benefits of both access sites.

Safety of long-term esophageal stent use for multiple indications.

Long-term (>30 days) esophageal stenting is controversial. Previous studies have documented complications associated with long-term esophageal stent use. This study's objective was to investigate complications associated with long-term esophageal stent use. A retrospective review of stenting done by thoracic surgery for any reason between 2010-2020 was completed. Patients were included if they had at least 30 days of follow-up after their initial stent placement. Outcomes included stent dwell time, patient outcomes, procedural and stent-related complications. Fifty-six patients, with 25 having ≥2 stents placed were included; overall, 90 stents were placed. The median length of initial esophageal stent dwell time was 59 [interquartile range (IQR), 21-119] days. Stent migration was the most common complication and occurred more with benign indications (P=0.12). As the length of dwell time increased, prevalence of any complication decreased. Complication rates between short-term (<30 days) and long-term stents were not significantly different (P=0.39). No instances of esophageal perforation or aortoesophageal fistulas related to stents were identified. There was one instance of post-esophagectomy tracheoesophageal fistula which was managed successfully with prolonged stenting. Over a 10-year period, there were no instances of stent erosion into the aorta or esophageal perforation, and the most frequent stent-related complication was stent migration. Long-term esophageal stenting did not result in increased rates of stent related complications in our cohort. This case series demonstrates that long-term stents may be safely used for many different indications. Randomized controlled studies may be needed to validate these findings.

Mid-term clinical outcomes of left bundle branch area pacing compared to accurate right ventricular septal pacing.

Although left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) reportedly results in fewer adverse outcomes after implantation than conventional stylet-guided right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP), previous studies have not compared LBBAP with accurate RVSP using a delivery catheter. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between LBBAP and accurate RVSP among patients with atrioventricular block (AVB). This single-center observational study enrolled 160 patients requiring RV pacing due to symptomatic AVB between September 2018 and December 2021. Primary composite outcomes included all-cause death, hospitalization due to heart failure (HF), and upgrading to biventricular pacing. Secondary composite outcomes included any procedural and postprocedural complications. Overall, 160 patients were analyzed (LBBAP, n = 81; RVSP, n = 79). No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups. The RV pacing burden at 1year after implantation was 90.8% ± 20.4% and 86.2% ± 22.6%, respectively (p = 0.21). During a mean follow-up of 840 ± 369days, the incidence of the primary outcome was significantly lower with LBBAP (4.9%) compared to RVSP (22.8%) (Log-rank p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the incidence of the secondary outcome between the two groups (3.7% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.65). In the multivariate analysis, baseline QRS duration, RV pacing burden, and LBBAP were independently associated with the primary outcome (baseline QRS duration: hazard ratio [HR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00-1.02; p < 0.001; RV pacing burden: HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.02; p < 0.001; LBBAP: HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.31-0.64; p < 0.001). In patients requiring frequent RV pacing, LBBAP was associated with reduced adverse clinical outcome compared to accurate RVSP using a delivery catheter.

Knee fusion versus above knee amputation as two options to deal with knee periprosthetic joint infection.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) poses a significant challenge in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), with recurrence rates as high as 14-28%, leading to substantial morbidity and treatment costs. When conventional treatments fail, knee fusion and above-the-knee amputation (AKA) emerge as alternative options. Existing literature offers conflicting views on the efficacy and impact of knee fusion versus AKA with varied outcomes and limitations. This retrospective national study spanning 2010-2022 investigates Knee Fusion and AKA as options for addressing Knee PJI. Utilizing PearlDiver Patient Records Database, procedural, and reimbursement data on over 100million individuals from all the US was evaluated. Readmission rates, costs, and complications of the mentioned procedures were assessed using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes within a 90-day period and one-year post-operation. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and regression models, were conducted using integrated R software. The study reveals a substantial escalation (p < 0.0001) in the proportion of patients opting for AKA compared to arthrodesis. While age as a demographic factor showed no significant difference, arthrodesis patients exhibited lower comorbidity scores (3.6 ± 2.9 vs. 4.6 ± 3.4, p < 0.001). Arthrodesis correlated with higher 90-day thromboembolism rates (9.2% vs. 7.3%, p < 0.001), blood transfusion requirements (23.2% vs. 14.4%, p < 0.001), and acute renal failure incidence (p = 0.008) but demonstrated lower rates of urinary tract infections (p = 0.047) and cerebrovascular accidents (p < 0.001). At 1 year, arthrodesis was associated with higher infection rates (38.7% vs. 36.4%, p < 0.001). Arthrodesis patients had significant increased 90-day and 1-year readmission rates and hospitalization costs ($12,732 vs. $18,826, p < 0.001). We found higher rates of 1-year thromboembolism, infection, acute renal failure, and readmission in the arthrodesis group. AKA patients had more sepsis and cerebrovascular accidents. A patient-centered conversation is best for persistent infections and failed revision TKA. Considering the patient's quality of life, goals, and health status, this discussion should cover each procedure's risks and complications.

Complications of Chemical Peels, Lasers, and Energy-Based Device Procedures Performed by Core Cosmetic Physicians: A Retrospective Analysis.

There has been a proliferation of physicians of different levels of experience and training offering nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. Rising demand, compounded by increasing utilization of new and existing technologies by numerous physician specialties, compels discussion of adequate standardized training and patient safety. A retrospective chart review of patients who presented to our single site dermatology clinic for managment of complications following chemical peel, laser or energy-based device treatments performed by core cosmetic physicians between the years of 2013 and 2024 was conducted. Core cosmetic physicians included plastic surgery, facial surgery/otolaryngology, oculoplastic surgery, and dermatology. Charts were reviewed for documentation of the type of complication, procedure causing the complication, and physician credentials, and referral source. Twenty-five patients were identified as having complications from chemical peeling, laser treatment or energy-based devices. Devices implicated included CO2 laser (fractional or fully ablative), chemical peels, 1064 nm long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser, 1320 nm Nd:YAG laser, intense pulsed light, 595 nm pulsed dye laser, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, radiofrequency with and without microneedling, and 1550 nm erbium-doped fiber laser. Complications included hypertrophic scarring, atrophic scarring, post-inflammatory erythema, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and post-inflammatory hypopigmentation. Even in experienced hands, complications can arise. It is imperative that all physicians offering cosmetic treatments are equipped to recognize clinical endpoints, identify and manage complications, or make a timely referral to decrease the risk of a permanent and potentially devastating esthetic outcome for patients.

Maxillary labial frenectomy: a randomized, controlled comparative study of two blue (445 nm) and infrared (980 nm) diode lasers versus surgical scalpel

BackgroundThis study aimed to compare the intra and postoperative complications of frenectomy procedure with a surgical scalpel versus 445 nm and 980 nm diode lasers.MethodsThis randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 174 patients requiring maxillary labial frenectomy. After completion of fixed orthodontic treatment and primary closure of maxillary diastema, the patients were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 58): group 1 (frenectomy via 445 nm diode laser, continuous-wave, 1.5 W), group 2 (frenectomy via 980 nm laser, continuous-wave, 1.7 W), and control group (V-Y plasty technique via scalpel). Intra-operative bleeding, discomfort in chewing and speaking, pain, and tissue healing were compared among the groups immediately, at 7 and 30 days postoperatively using the Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, and Chi-square tests.ResultsPain scores were significantly lower in group 1 compared to group 2 (immediately and day 7, P < 0.05). Significant faster tissue healing at days 7 and 30 were observed in group 1 compared to group 2 (P < 0.05). Group 1 was superior to the control group regarding lower intraoperative bleeding, discomfort in chewing and speaking (immediately and day 7), lower pain (immediately and day 7), and tissue healing (day 7) (P < 0.05 for all). Group 2 was significantly superior to the control group in lower intraoperative bleeding, discomfort in chewing and speaking (immediately and day 7), and better tissue healing (day 7) (P < 0.05 for all).ConclusionsIn conclusion, diode laser frenectomy resulted in significantly lower intra and postoperative complications compared to the scalpel. Moreover, 445 nm diode laser showed significantly superior effects compared to 980 nm diode laser.Trial registrationThe study protocol was registered on 29.10.2022 at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) (registration number: IRCT20220630055326N1).

Seriousness and outcomes of reported adverse drug reactions in old and new antiseizure medications: a pharmacovigilance study using EudraVigilance database.

Introduction: Epilepsy is a widespread disease requiring long-term drug treatment. The aim of this study was to collect information on reported suspected adverse drug reactions (sADRs) of antiseizure medications (ASMs) and study their seriousness and outcomes in various system organ classifications (SOCs). We intended to compare old and new ASMs' ADRs. Methods: Using EudraVigilance (EV) database, we extracted line listings of reported sADRs with different ASMs over the period from January 2012 to December 2021. The list of ASMs was compiled according to the Anatomical therapeutic chemical classification system. The Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities version 24.0 was used for determining the SOCs of individual reported preferred terms (PTs) sADRs. In addition, we calculated the Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), 95% confidence interval (95% CI), p-value (statistically significant if p< 0.05) and chi-square statistics. Results: A total of 276,694 reports were contained in the exported line listings which included 1,051,142 individual sADRs reported as PTs such as seizure (3.49%), drug ineffective (2.46%), somnolence (1.32%), dizziness (1.29%) and represented four SOCs: nervous system disorders (19.26%), general disorders and administration site conditions (14.39%), psychiatric disorders (11.29%) and injury, poisoning and procedural complications (9.79). Among patients, the age group between 18 and 64years had the highest percentage (52.40%), followed by those aged over 64years (18.75%). Of all the reported PTs, 882,706 (83.98%) had reported seriousness. Old ASMs had a significant positive association with "caused/prolonged hospitalisation", "congenital anomaly", "disabling", "life threatening" and "results in death", while new ASMS with 'other medically important condition'. There were 386 (0.04%) PTs related to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Conclusion: In our study, we examined 10years' reported sADRs of ASMs in the EV international database. The majority of PTs were serious. Old ASMs were generally more commonly associated with undesired outcomes and seriousness. Considering their expected seriousness and outcomes, the safety profile of the different ASMs, can play a cardinal role in the selection of ASMs.