Endovascular Techniques Research Articles

A New Bailout Maneuver to Manage Type IIIa Endoleak Due to Displaced Renal Bridging Stent Graft in Narrow Aorta.

To present endovascular management of an intraoperative type IIIc endoleak (EL) in a patient with migration of the right renal artery (RRA) bridging stent graft (BSG) during branched aortic aneurysm repair. The technique is demonstrated in an 80-year-old woman who underwent branched endograft repair of a symptomatic 6-cm type II TAAA. The t-Branch thoracoabdominal stent graft was positioned without difficulty. A "partial graft deployment" was performed, with the distal portion of the device remaining inside the delivery system and the right renal and superior mesenteric arteries were stented. When the constraining wires were removed, the RRA BSG migration from the branch was displayed, due to endograft twisting resulting in a horizontal rotation of the t-Branch. The RRA BSG remained oriented upward with the proximal edge positioned above the distal edge of the directional branch, making cannulation very difficult. This bailout technique uses a balloon placed at the level of the RRA BSG through the celiac artery (CA) directional branch; keeping the balloon inflated and in thrust, the edge of the BSG has moved downward making it possible to engage it and relining through the RRA directional branch. This paper describes an endovascular bailout technique for relining a displaced bridging stent graft, oriented upwards with the proximal edge positioned above the distal edge of the directional branch. This sophisticated technique adds to the spectrum of bailout techniques that can be applied in cases of type IIIa EL with migration and complete separation of BSG.

Postdissection Abdominal Aorto-Iliac Aneurysm Open Repair: A Surgical Technique Description and Systematic Review of the Literature

BackgroundPost-dissection abdominal aortic aneurysms (pDAAA) may develop in up to 7% of patients affected by aortic dissection. However, there is no consensus on the optimal management. Different endovascular and open surgical techniques have been reported. This case-series describes the open surgical technique employed at a tertiary vascular surgery center to manage this complex pathology to allow future treatment of the visceral aorta if needed. A systematic review of the relevant literature on surgical and endovascular management of pDAAA was conducted. MethodConsecutive patients surgically treated at a single center for pDAAA metachronous to a Stanford type A or type B aortic dissection from January 2018 to March 2023 were retrospectively retrieved. The surgical technique we employed entails the use of large-diameter bifurcated grafts (≥ 9 mm branches) with longer main body, fenestration of the septum at renal arteries ostia and landing on a common femoral artery in case of small caliber iliac arteries (< 8 mm) to provide a suitable landing zone and access route for future endovascular thoracoabdominal repair in case of subsequent aneurysmal degeneration. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were major complications, late mortality, aortic-related mortality, and aortic-related reinterventions. Then, a systematic review of the literature until March 2023 was conducted. ResultsFive patients were included, all males with a mean age of 61 years. 30-day mortality was 0. One patient suffered from post-operative acute kidney injury and acute distress respiratory syndrome, and another one underwent repeat laparotomy for abdominal seroma. The mean follow-up was 44 months with no aortic-related reinterventions to date. One patient died from non-aortic-related causes 9 months after surgery. ConclusionsOpen repair of pDAAA appears to be an effective treatment in selected patients, with low mortality rates, and technical choices should consider future endovascular treatment of the thoracoabdominal aorta.

A novel bailout technique using myocardial biopsy forceps to grasp a dislodged angio-seal collagen with footplate

BackgroundHemostatic devices are now frequently used in femoral artery punctures, and the Angio-Seal (Terumo, Tokyo, Japan) is one of the most commonly used devices for closure of the femoral artery because it provides rapid hemostasis. Although device failure rarely occurs, if the collagen falls into the femoral artery, it may lead to severe limb ischemia. Herein, we describe a case of a novel endovascular technique for the treatment of Angio-Seal arterial closure device failure.Case presentationThe patient in Case 1 was a 75-year-old man with severe left limb claudication. We used a contralateral antegrade approach and used the Angio-Seal for hemostasis. However, the Angio-Seal collagen and footplate dropped and stopped at the bifurcation of the superficial femoral artery and deep femoral artery. The collagen with the footplate was caught with myocardial biotome forceps (MBF) and pulled into the external iliac artery (EIA). The distal common femoral artery (CFA) was punctured, and we delivered a 10.0- × 80-mm stent (SMART®; Cordis, USA) to the EIA from the ipsilateral sheath. The stent was deployed at the EIA and crushed the collagen. The patient in Case 2 was an 88-year-old man with rest pain in the right limb. The right CFA was punctured using an ipsilateral approach and the Angio-Seal was used for hemostasis. The Angio-Seal collagen with the footplate dropped into the bifurcation of the deep femoral artery. The collagen and footplate were caught with MBF and pulled up to the EIA. The right CFA was punctured and a 10.0- × 60-mm stent (SMART®; Cordis) was delivered from the ipsilateral sheath. The stent was deployed at the EIA and crushed the collagen with the footplate.ConclusionsMBF were used to grasp the dislodged collagen with the anchor and cover it with a stent at the iliac artery. This may be a useful bailout technique for Angio-Seal dislodgement.

Transprosthetic Fenestration With Electrified Wires. Experimental Evaluation of Three Multifilament Endografts.

In situ fenestration of aortic endografts is an alternative endovascular technique for treatment of complex aortic aneurysms. While this technique has been carried out also to pass stent-grafts in individual cases, its feasibility and safety using different stent-grafts needs to be evaluated. In a saline bath at water temperature of 37°C, a 0.018" Astato 30 guidewire was advanced through 3 different stent-grafts (RelayPro, Zenith and Endurant II) by applying external current of 180 W via an electrosurgery pencil. Puncture efficacy and quality of the fenestration after ballooning with a 6 mm percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) catheter were assessed. Then, balloon-expandable covered stents were deployed in the fenestrations and evaluated for stenosis, using microscopy and radiography. Crossing of the electrified guidewire was instantaneous in the Zenith (n:10) and RelayPro (n:10) groups but not in 3 of 10 punctures in the Endurant group (p<.05). The fenestration area created after PTA was significantly larger in the RelayPro (5.3 mm2 ± 1.8, interquartile range [IQR] 1.6) and Zenith group (6.7 mm2 ± 0.7, IQR 0.5) compared to Endurant (2.3 mm2 ± 0.4, IQR 0.5, p<.001). Fraying was observed in all groups while graft shredding was found in 8 cases after PTA of the Zenith and Endurant endografts and in 5 of the RelayPro group, but the difference was not significant. Vertical tearing was detected after RelayPro (2 out of 10) and Zenith (6 out of 10) fenestrations, no damage was found in the Endurant group (p<.01). Residual stenosis at the level of the fenestration after implantation of a 6 × 79 mm VBX stent had to be corrected in all Endurant cases with a high-pressure PTA catheter. No stenosis was found in the RelayPro and Zenith groups before and after flaring. The "electrified wire" technique is a feasible tool that can be used to perform in situ fenestration by perforation of the endograft fabric. Based on this experimental evaluation the "ideal graft" for this technique could not be identified. Long-term fatigue tests and comparison with other fenestration techniques are required. In situ endograft fenestration can be a useful technique in emergent aortic repair. Recently, the electrified wire technique has been proposed as alternative option to laser, radiofrequency and needle-based techniques. In comparison to these methods, the use of electrified wires can be performed without modifications of routine equipment. Additionally, the material costs can be substantially reduced. However, the effectiveness of this approach for fenestration of different prosthetic grafts is unknown. Based on our experimental studies, the electrified wire technique is feasible but the Endurant endograft requires more attempts, and the placement of a bridging stent should be completed with high-pressure balloons.

Evaluation of coiling endovascular technique on treatment of Middle cerebral artery cerebral aneurysms in different blood haematocrits: numerical study

Evaluation of coiling endovascular technique on treatment of Middle cerebral artery cerebral aneurysms in different blood haematocrits: numerical study

Graduating Vascular Surgery Trainee Proficiency in Endovascular and Open Peripheral Revascularization Procedures

Endovascular interventions for peripheral artery disease have increased in prevalence over time given the inherent benefits of minimally invasive approaches. While it is essential that vascular surgery graduates are facile with endovascular techniques, the results of the BEST-CLI trial highlight the equivalent importance of ensuring trainee competence in open skills. Recent studies demonstrate increasing case volume of both endovascular and open procedures during vascular surgery training. Case volume is merely a surrogate marker for competence, however, and the objective competence attained by trainees at the time of graduation is unknown. We sought to investigate operative autonomy and competence of graduating vascular surgery trainees performing endovascular as compared to open peripheral vascular revascularization procedures. Operative performance and autonomy ratings for infrainguinal endovascular and open revascularizations from the Society for Improving Professional Learning Operative (SIMPL OR) application database were collected for all vascular surgery participating institutions from 2018-23. The distribution for autonomy and performance ratings were determined by training level for endovascular and open procedures, respectively. Mixed effects logistic regressions were conducted to estimate the predictive association between procedure type and autonomy and performance assessment, adjusting for training level and case complexity. Subsequently, the estimated model was applied to predict the probability of a graduating trainee being rated as meaningfully autonomous or competent while performing endovascular and open procedures across various case complexities. Sixty-nine residents from 23 programs (12 fellowship, 11 residency) were assessed on 706 revascularization procedures (n=383 endovascular, 323 open). When controlling for training level and case complexity, there were no differences in autonomy (OR 1.11 [95% CI: 0.62-1.99]) or competency assessment (OR 0.86 [95% CI: 0.46-1.59]) for endovascular, as compared to open, peripheral revascularization procedures. For average complexity procedures, the predicted probability of a trainee being assessed as competent and autonomous at the time of graduation was high (competent: 88% endovascular, 86% open; autonomous: 96% endovascular, 97% open). Predicted probability of competence and autonomy for complex procedures was lower but remained similar between groups (competent:73% endovascular, 70% open; autonomous: 92% endovascular, 92% open). There is no difference in the graduating level of autonomy and competence of endovascular as compared to open peripheral revascularization procedures for vascular surgery trainees. These findings suggest vascular surgery trainees enter independent practice with adequate proficiency to utilize the full scope of techniques to care for patients requiring peripheral revascularization procedures.

Post Neck Radiation Cancer Carotid Pseudoaneurysm Blowouts with Viabahn Stent Placement

Carotid Blowout Syndrome (CBS) is a critical and often fatal complication associated with head and neck malignancies. CBS is characterized by three stages: threatened, impending, and acute rupture/hemorrhage. The condition is notably linked with a history of radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, with an incidence of approximately 3-4% among those who have received such treatment. Historically, surgical management of CBS has involved open surgical ligation. However, advancements in endovascular techniques, including endovascular destructive procedures (e.g., coil embolization) and reconstructive procedures (e.g., carotid artery stenting), have become increasingly prevalent. This report presents two cases where a self-expandable PTFE-coated nitinol stent with a heparin coating (Viabahn; Gore and Associates) was utilized in the treatment of CBS.

Advancements in Endovascular Treatment of Extracranial Carotid Artery Aneurysms

Traditionally, extracranial carotid artery aneurysms or pseudoaneurysms (ECCAs) have been managed through open surgical repair. Recent literature highlights the increasing success of endovascular techniques in treating ECCAs. Our study explores our center's experience with endovascular management of ECCAs, including the innovative use of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) at a tertiary care center. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with ECCAs who underwent endovascular intervention at a single institution. We examined our database from the period of 2010 to 2024. Our treatment modalities have expanded to include covered stenting, stent-assisted coil embolization, braided stents, overlapping closed-cell stents, and most recently Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR). There were 29 extracranial carotid artery aneurysms in 27 patients treated with various endovascular modalities. The average age was 67.6 years, with 17 (63.0%) males and 10 (37.0%) females. 8 (29.6%) patients had prior ipsilateral carotid intervention. 9 (31.0%) aneurysms were symptomatic. The most common etiology was idiopathic, with 16 (55.2%) aneurysms being spontaneous. Treatment modalities included: 2 (6.9%) treated with covered stents, 2 (6.9%) with stent-assisted embolization, 3 (10.3%) with flow-diverting braided stents, 3 (10.3%) with embolization or ligation alone, 17 (58.6%) with overlapping bare metal stents via femoral or radial access, and 2 (6.9%) with overlapping bare metal stents via TCAR. Technical success was achieved in all patients. The mean follow-up duration was 236 days (range: 2 to 3039 days). No perioperative or post-operative complications occurred, including no neurological deficits or embolic events. All patients were discharged on post-operative day 1 or 2. All 29 (100%) stents maintained vessel patency on follow-up imaging, and exclusion of ECCAs was confirmed on post-procedure surveillance imaging. Our study highlights that endovascular therapy is effective in managing ECCAs, with high patency rates and a favorable procedural safety profile.

Management of a giant right common carotid artery aneurysm with concomitant significant stenosis of LICA using surgical and endovascular techniques — case report and review

Management of a giant right common carotid artery aneurysm with concomitant significant stenosis of LICA using surgical and endovascular techniques — case report and review

Comparative Analysis of Surgical and Endovascular Approaches for Isolated Aortic Coarctation Repair across Age Groups: Outcomes and Long-Term Efficacy.

Background: Aortic coarctation, a condition characterized by localized narrowing of the aorta, can be managed with either surgical or endovascular techniques. This study aims to compare these approaches concerning long-term outcomes, particularly re-coarctation rates and late arterial hypertension. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with native, isolated aortic coarctation treated by surgical or endovascular methods between 2015 and 2024. Clinical and demographic data were collected from electronic health records. Blood pressure was measured using oscillometric devices, and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed by an experienced sonographer. The primary endpoint was to identify which treatment predicted re-coarctation during follow-up, while the secondary endpoint assessed the incidence of late arterial hypertension. Results: Sixty-nine patients were included, with a mean age of 18.14 ± 8.18 years (median 16 years; range 8 to 37 years) and a median follow-up of 3 years (range 6 months to 8 years). Of these, 67 (97.1%) underwent elective repairs. Repair techniques included endovascular treatment (24.6%), surgical end-to-end anastomosis (47.8%), and surgical patchplasty (27.5%). The endovascular group was significantly older (29.82 ± 5.9 years vs. 14.33 ± 4.25 years, p = 0.056) and had shorter procedure durations and hospital stays. One-year freedom from reintervention was significantly higher in the surgical group (98.7%) compared to the endovascular group (88.23%) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both techniques effectively treat aortic coarctation, but surgical repair offers better long-term outcomes, while endovascular repair provides shorter recovery times. These findings should inform the choice of treatment modality based on patient-specific factors and clinical priorities.

Physician-Modified and In Situ Fenestrated Stent Grafts in Zone 0 for Aortic Arch Pathology After Ascending Aortic Replacement.

We sought to describe our experience and outcomes of a zone 0 landing physician-modified aortic stent for the treatment of aortic arch pathologies late after open ascending aortic replacement. This study included consecutive patients with aortic arch diseases treated with total endovascular repair using different techniques. The indication for endovascular repair was agreed on in a multidisciplinary discussion. Study end points were technical success, early and late outcomes. From November 2018 to May 2022, 16 consecutive patients underwent total endovascular repair of aortic arch pathologies. Median time for surgery was 4.8 hours (range, 2.6-6.6 hours). All the new-onset aortic arch pathologies were successfully treated. The 30-day mortality rate was 0%. Two patients had endoleak. The median length of postoperative stay was 4 days (range, 3-6 days). During follow-up, 1 patient underwent reintervention for type II endoleak. There were no conversions to retrograde dissection, aortic rupture and stroke. Our experience of using different total endovascular techniques for selective patients with arch pathologies who may be unfit or too risky for reopen surgery revealed favorable initial results. In addition, these techniques are promising options for urgent arch pathologies without availability of custom-manufactured devices. Durability concerns will need to be assessed in additional studies with long-term follow-up. The use of physician-modified and in situ fenestrated stent grafts in zone 0 landing for aortic arch pathologies in patients with prior open ascending aortic replacement is effective in endovascular therapy. This innovation enables clinicians to offer an alternative option to high-risk patients, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality. It underscores the feasibility of tailored endovascular therapy in complex aortic diseases, where customized devices may not be available.

Revascularization of superior mesenteric artery occlusion via the arc of Buhler: A case report and literature review.

To report revascularization of a superior mesenteric artery (SMA) ostial occlusion via the Arc of Buhler. A 62-year-old female presented with 2 months of recurrent abdominal distension and postprandial pain. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed ostial occlusion of the SMA with distal perfusion via the Arc of Buhler (connecting the celiac trunk and SMA). Conventional endovascular techniques failed. A 0.014 guidewire was passed retrograde through the occlusion via the Arc of Buhler. The guidewire was captured from the femoral sheath and balloon angioplasty with stent placement was performed. The patient had complete symptom resolution post-procedure. Retrograde revascularization via the Arc of Buhler is an effective method for treating the initial segment occlusion of the SMA.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) for Treatment of Bleeding from Cardiofundal and Ectopic Varices in Cirrhosis

Acute variceal bleeding in cirrhosis represents a critical clinical event that significantly impacts patient prognosis, with mortality rates increasing further after a second episode. This underscores the need for immediate intervention and optimal prophylaxis. The creation of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has been proven to be highly effective for managing esophageal variceal bleeding. However, the use of TIPS for managing cardiofundal gastric varices and ectopic varices remains debated due to their unique vascular anatomy and the limited data available. These varices, although less prevalent than esophageal varices, are complex and heterogeneous vascular shunts between the splanchnic venous system and the systemic veins. Indeed, while endoscopic therapy with tissue adhesives is widely endorsed for achieving hemostasis in active hemorrhage, there is no consensus regarding the optimal approach for secondary prophylaxis. Recent research emphasizes the efficacy of endovascular techniques over endoscopic treatments, such as TIPS and endovascular variceal embolization techniques. This review examines the use of TIPS in managing acute variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhosis, focusing specifically on cardiofundal gastric varices and ectopic varices, discussing optimal patient care based on the latest evidence, aiming to improve outcomes for this challenging subset of patients.

Current state of education in venous diseases within vascular surgery training programs in Italy: A national web-based survey among residents

Background To analyze the perception of vascular surgery trainees from Italian schools of Vascular Surgery regarding the level of practical and theoretical education in venous diseases. Methods An anonymous electronic survey was sent to Italian vascular surgery residents affiliated with 19 universities, asking about their training and experience in the management of venous diseases. The survey gathered information on the residents’ personal and demographic details, their university’s teaching program, operative experience in phlebology, as well as their confidence levels in performing various venous procedures, with the goal of analyzing the training and learning programs provided by Italian vascular surgery schools. Results The analysis showed that 28% of programs do not include phlebology in the curriculum, and more than 40% of residents are unable to independently perform venous duplex ultrasound or treat venous ulcers. Additionally, most residents (over 70%) have limited weekly exposure to phlebology cases, with only 5% having access to a dedicated phlebology operating room. The vast majority of residents (96%) expressed a strong desire to deepen their knowledge and skills in this field, particularly in areas such as endovascular ablation techniques, venous duplex ultrasound, and management of deep venous disease. Conclusions The survey reveals significant limitations in phlebology education and hands-on experience within the current training programs, highlighting the need to standardize and enhance venous disease management education in order to ensure that future vascular surgeons are adequately equipped to provide high-quality care for patients with a wide range of venous disorders.

The application of cell products for the treatment of critical limb ischemia in patients with diabetes mellitus: a review of the literature

The number of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) has been progressively increasing worldwide over the past decades, and many international organizations consider DM as a public health emergency of the 21st century.Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the most severe stage of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in DM and is characterized by a high risk of limb loss without revascularization. Traditional treatment tactics include open and endovascular revascularization surgical techniques. However, in patients not eligible for revascularization and in cases where performed surgical treatment performed has been ineffective, there are almost no therapeutic alternatives, often leading to amputations and death. As of today, one of the newest non-surgical treatment options is cell therapy. Among different cells, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are potentially one of the most prospective for use in this patient population.This article provides an overview of clinical trials using cell therapy in patients with CLI.To analyze publications, electronic databases PubMed, SCOPUS, ClinicalTrials, and ScienceDirect were searched to identify published data from clinical trials, research studies, and review articles on cell therapy for critical lower extremity ischemia. After the search, 489 results were received.As a result of systematic selection, 22 clinical trials were analyzed.According to the analyzed literature data, the use of cell products in this category of patients is effective and safe. Cell therapy can stimulate the formation of new vessels and enhances collateral circulation; it is also reported improved distal perfusion, increased pain-free walking distance, decreased amputation rates, and increased survival rates.Nevertheless, further study of the potential use of this category of drugs is needed.

Conventional and old endovascular techniques for vertebral aneurysms still work in the era of flow diversion

BackgroundEndovascular management for vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms (VADA) is quite intricate which thereby necessitate different strategies per case. Our current study described various optimal strategies available for endovascular management of VADA other than flow diverter (FD).Results14 Patients presented with acute SAH and 4 patients with symptoms of mass effect. VADA were classified in 3 groups, viz contralateral vertebral artery is dominant group A (n = 5), co-dominant group B (n = 8) or group C hypoplastic (n = 5). Group A and B (n = 13) was further subdivided into three subtypes depending on location of aneurysm with respect to posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA), aneurysm proximal to the PICA, type I (n = 5); involving the PICA, type II (n = 1); and distal to the pica, type III (n = 4). Treatment strategy varied with type whether deconstructive or reconstructive methods using stents and coils in different fashion.ConclusionPreprocedural angiographic work up delineating the anatomical location of the aneurysm, contralateral vertebral artery dominancy and nearby perforator status along with location of PICA is imperative in selecting the safest and optimal endovascular therapy option.

Vein of galen malformations: for patients and caregivers.

Vein of Galen malformations (VOGMs), also known as Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Malformations (VGAMs), are rare and complex cerebrovascular anomalies that pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. These malformations result from abnormal arteriovenous shunts during embryonic development, leading to a range of severe clinical manifestations, including high-output cardiac failure and hydrocephalus. Advances in prenatal imaging, particularly fetal MRI, have improved early detection, allowing for timely intervention. Endovascular techniques, especially transarterial embolization, have become the primary treatment modality, often preferred over surgical approaches due to their effectiveness and lower risk. However, challenges remain, particularly in managing these malformations in neonates and infants, where the risk of complications is high. Gamma Knife radiosurgery offers a non-invasive alternative for select cases, though its effects are gradual and may carry delayed risks. Despite advancements, the management of VOGMs continues to require a multidisciplinary approach, with ongoing research focused on improving outcomes through a better understanding of the genetic and molecular underpinnings of the disease. Future directions include the integration of genetic studies into clinical practice and the refinement of treatment strategies to optimize outcomes for this complex condition.

Rescue stenting in refractory mechanical thrombectomy: A review

Despite advancements in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in the treatment of large vessel occlusions, failure to achieve recanalization remains a challenge in 10 &amp;ndash; 30% of patients. Several underlying pathologies have been postulated in refractory MT, including intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis, intracranial dissection, and recalcitrant emboli. Rescue strategies to maximize recanalization rates, such as alternative access routes, local thrombolysis, stent-assisted angioplasty, and acute &amp;ldquo;rescue&amp;rdquo; stenting, have been proposed. Considered an emerging treatment strategy for refractory MT, rescue stenting (RS) has been shown in non-randomized observational studies as a safe and effective strategy for increasing reperfusion rates and consequently improving clinical outcomes. The effective use of RS approach requires consideration of patient-specific characteristics, clot characteristics, and lesion anatomy. This review provides an overview of the understanding of refractory MT, epidemiology, pathophysiology, current evidence supporting RS in the anterior and posterior circulation, stents used, endovascular techniques, patient selection criteria, antithrombotic use, risks, and complications.

Extensive aortic replacement including aortic arch for a mega aorta with chronic aortic dissection via posterolateral thoracotomy

BackgroundMega-aortic syndrome including aortic arch and descending aortic aneurysm is a challenging surgical case. Because the aorta continuously dilates, creating the distal anastomosis sites becomes an issue. Despite the developments in endovascular techniques including frozen elephant trunk, in the case of mega-aortic syndrome or mycotic aneurysm, extensive surgical repair is still a strong armamentarium. Our patient had a mega-aorta with chronic aortic dissection. Herein, we show tips regarding concurrent ascending, aortic arch, and descending aortic replacement via posterolateral thoracotomy for this relatively young patient.Case presentationA 46-year-old man with chronic kidney disease had chronic type A aortic dissection with an extensively dilated thoracic aorta from the distal ascending to the descending aorta measuring 63 mm in diameter and abdominal aorta measuring 50 mm. The short segment of the distal descending aorta was narrowed to 36 mm. The patient underwent a concurrent replacement of the distal ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta via a posterolateral thoracotomy. The patient was extubated on postoperative day (POD) 1 and discharged home without serious complications such as stroke, respiratory failure, or renal failure on POD 18. The 1-year follow-up computed tomography did not find issues in the anastomosis sites; however, the abdominal aorta enlarged from 50 to 58 mm. The patient underwent a thoracoabdominal aortic replacement and recovered well without any complications.ConclusionsGood exposure and meticulous organ protection methods are key to a safe concurrent replacement of the ascending, aortic arch, and descending aorta via posterolateral thoracotomy.

Prospective Multi-Center Longitudinal Study to Validate Accuracy of the Global Anatomic Staging System (GLASS) Score in Predicting Major Acute Limb Events in Patients With Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia Undergoing Endovascular Intervention: The PROMOTE-GLASS Study Protocol.

Developed by the Global Vascular Guidelines committee, the Global Limb Anatomic Staging System (GLASS) is an angiographic scoring system used for quantifying infrainguinal disease extent and predicting treatment success with endovascular techniques (EVT). Currently, no other risk prediction model is available for patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) undergoing EVT. GLASS' validation and adoption outside academic institutions for research are limited. Thus, this longitudinal multicenter prospective study aims to examine GLASS' validity and reliability in predicting major acute limb events and overall survival (OS) in patients with CLTI undergoing EVT. This prospective, international, multicenter, observational study will include patients with CLTI undergoing EVT (PROMOTE-GLASS) (ClinicalTrials.gov; ID: NCT06186544) identified through routine clinical referrals and emergency visits to vascular units in participating centers. Only patients who are referred for EVT will be recruited. The primary outcomes are immediate technical success, immediate technical failure, and 1-year limb base patency. The secondary outcomes are major adverse limb events, major lower limb amputation, and OS in patients presenting with CLTI who undergo EVT up to 1 year after the procedure. Clinical and imaging data will be analyzed at the end of follow-up to validate risk prediction. This protocol outlines our approach for identifying cases, GLASS score calculation, outcome measures assessment, and a statistical analysis plan. PROMOTE-GLASS holds significant implications and can potentially revolutionize clinical decision-making by assisting clinicians in identifying patients who are likely to benefit from EVT. Ultimately, reduce the need for more invasive procedures and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, PROMOTE-GLASS can provide useful information, including patient selection, for future randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating EVT for CLTI. PROMOTE-GLASS anticipated implications on the vascular community are rooted in its potential to improve patient care, inform future research, and address limitations in existing literature regarding CLTI treatment outcomes.