Intraoperative Angiography Research Articles

Concordance between preoperative ultrasound arterial mapping in the femoropopliteal and distal sector and intraoperative angiography.

The present study analyzes the concordance between arterial mapping of this sector using duplex ultrasound and intraoperative angiography. A retrospective, single-center observational study was carried out. The study sample consisted of patients subjected to open or endovascular surgery of the femoropopliteal and distal sector with prior ultrasound arterial mapping from January 2017 to December 2022. Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) of arterial mapping with duplex ultrasound versus intraoperative angiography were evaluated, the degree of concordance between the two techniques and the correlation between surgical planning and the surgery finally performed. 167 patients were analyzed. A total of 1837 segments were explored, of which 149 (8.1%) were not able to be evaluated. Regarding the global precision of ultrasound in predicting significant arterial lesions (stenosis > 50% or occlusion), sensitivity was 85.26% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 82.33-88.19%), specificity 88.57% (95%CI: 86.63-90.51%), PPV 80.41% (95%CI: 77.24-83.58%), and NPV 91.61% (95%CI: 89.89-93.34%). Global concordance assessed by the kappa index was 0.725 (95%CI: 0.691-759). The surgical indications based on arterial mapping coincided with the final surgery performed in 97.6% of the cases. Arterial mapping of the femoropopliteal and distal sector with duplex ultrasound could be considered as the sole preoperative imaging technique for surgical planning.

Intraoperative ICG-fluorescence imaging of ureteral defect: case report and literature review

Iatrogenic ureteral injury is the most frequent trauma during pelvic surgery. Due to the peculiarities of this topographic region, assessment of ureteral wall perfusion is critical for prevention of ischemic complications.In modern surgical practice, assessing local ureteral perfusion is often based on the surgeon’s subjective opinion. Intraoperative angiography with indocyanine green (indocyanine green, ICG) has been shown to be an adequate reflection of tissue perfusion and potentially influence the outcome of surgery.Currently, there are insufficient data regarding the use of ICG in iatrogenic ureteral injury. In this article, we describe a successful ICG fluorescence-guided middle third ureteroplasty in a 92-year-old patient with uterine cancer who underwent a simple hysterectomy. We also review the literature on this topic. The literature search for the review was performed using the PubMed database.Based on currently available data, the use of ICG for defect detection and control during ureteral resection is feasible and safe. However, the significance of this procedure should be evaluated in further studies.

Intraoperative Invasive Coronary Angiography after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the feasibility and safety of intraoperative invasive coronary angiography (ICA) following coronary artery bypass grafting using a mobile angiography C-arm. Between August 2020 and December 2021, 18 patients were enrolled for intraoperative ICA following coronary artery bypass grafting. After skin closure, ICA was performed including angiography of all established bypass grafts via a mobile angiography system by an interventional cardiologist. Data on graft patency, stenosis, and kinking were assessed. Grafts were rated on an ordinal scale ranging from very poor (1) to excellent (5). Furthermore, the impact of ICA compared with flow measurement was assessed using the ordinal Likert scale ranging from (I) worse to (V) much better. The ICA was considered better (V) compared with transient flow measurement in 38 (93%) and comparable (III) in 3 (7%) distal anastomoses. ICA impacted clinical or surgical decision-making in three patients (17%). In one patient, dual antiplatelet therapy for 6 months was initiated and rethoracotomy was needed in two (11%) patients with bypass graft revision and additional bypass grafting for graft occlusion. There were no cerebral and distal embolic events or access vessel complications observed and no postoperative acute kidney injury occurred. Intraoperative angiography after coronary bypass grafting is safe. Using a mobile angiographic device, graft patency, and function assessment was superior to transit time flow measurement leading to further consequences in a relevant number of patients. Therefore, it has the potential to reduce postoperative myocardial injury and improve survival.

Successful laparoscopic arterial ligation of splenic artery aneurysm with a splenomesenteric trunk: a case report and literature review

BackgroundThe mortality rate of splenic artery aneurysm rupture is very high, and patients with aneurysms larger than 30 mm are recommended for treatment, regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms. We herein report a case of splenic artery aneurysm with an abnormal bifurcation that was treated with laparoscopic ligation of the splenic artery.Case presentationA 51 year-old Japanese male was referred to our hospital because a splenic artery aneurysm was noted on abdominal echocardiography during a medical examination. The splenic artery bifurcated from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA), and a 38-mm splenic artery aneurysm was found just after the bifurcation; thus, surgery was performed. Intraoperative angiography was performed, a balloon catheter was placed before the splenic artery bifurcation, and laparoscopic splenic artery ligation was performed to prepare for sudden bleeding. After ligation of the splenic artery, angiography was performed again to confirm the absence of the splenic artery aneurysm and that the peripheral splenic artery was visible through the peripheral collateral vessels. The patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day, with good progress. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography performed 1 month postoperatively confirmed the disappearance of the splenic artery aneurysm, and the contrast-enhanced peripheral splenic artery was visible.ConclusionThis is the first report of a safe laparoscopic artery ligation procedure for a splenic artery aneurysm with an abnormal splenic artery bifurcation from the SMA, in which a balloon catheter was placed at the splenic artery bifurcation.

Intraoperative visualization of cerebral aneurysms using navigated 3D-ultrasound power-Doppler angiography.

The questions of whether the spatial resolution of navigated 3D-ultrasound (3D-US) power-Doppler angiography imaging rendered by existing 3D-US systems is sufficient for the intraoperative visualization of cerebral aneurysms, and in what percentage of cases, are largely unanswered. A study on this topic is lacking in the literature. From 2015 to 2022, we performed 86 surgeries on 83 aneurysm patients. Navigated 3D-US was used at the discretion of the operating neurosurgeons when available (i.e., not being used during parallel tumor surgeries). Twenty-five aneurysms (15 ruptured) were operated on using 3D-US; 22 aneurysms were located at the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Patient 3D-US power-Doppler angiography images and surgical reports were retrospectively reviewed to assess the intraoperative ultrasound visibility of aneurysms. In 20 patients (80%) the aneurysms were successfully visualized. In five patients (20%), the aneurysms visualization was insufficient or absent. Nineteen of 22 aneurysms (86.4%) were visualized in the MCA aneurysm subgroup. We observed no association between aneurysm visibility and aneurysm size or the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. In the subgroup of MCA aneurysms, no association between aneurysm visibility and the presence of subarachnoid hemorrhage was found; a trend toward poor sonographic visibility of smaller aneurysms was observed (p = 0.09). Our initial data show that intraoperative 3D-US power-Doppler angiography, rendered by current navigated 3D-US systems, clearly depicts the majority of aneurysms in the MCA aneurysm subgroup. However, future prospective studies performed on a higher number of aneurysms localized at various anatomic sites are needed to confirm our initial findings and determine their potential clinical relevance.

Transcarotid flow reversal for proximal control during cerebral aneurysm clip reconstruction: illustrative case.

Paraclinoid aneurysms can pose an operative challenge during clip reconstruction, given the complex surrounding anatomy and the aneurysmal tendency to maintain turgor despite standard approaches to proximal control. This report demonstrates the use of intraoperative retrograde arteriovenous shunting with the transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) system to assist in the safe clip reconstruction of an irregular paraclinoid aneurysm. A 33-year-old woman presented with perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage and was found to have an incidental 9-mm ophthalmic aneurysm. Coil embolization was not successful. During microsurgical clip reconstruction, the left common carotid artery was exposed to allow for proximal control as well as transcarotid arterial sheath placement. Flow reversal was instituted throughout the aneurysm dissection and clipping, with a visible softening of the aneurysm. Intraoperative angiography confirming successful clip reconstruction was performed utilizing the TCAR sheath. The case was complicated by the development of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea postoperatively, requiring surgical repair. The patient has since made a complete recovery. Transcarotid flow reversal utilizing the TCAR system has potential for use in the surgical treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms, as it may aid in softening the aneurysm for safer dissection and clip reconstruction, protect against aneurysm-associated emboli, and provide an avenue for intraoperative angiography. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24330.

Noninvasive visualization of the midline-crossing arterial variation in the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap using photoacoustic tomography for application in patients with abdominal scars

BackgroundThe importance of the subcutaneous arterial network crossing the midline in transverse abdominal flaps has been reported. Photoacoustic tomography can be used to noninvasively visualize subcutaneous vascular networks. We applied this novel technology preoperatively in patients undergoing breast reconstruction to detect individual variations in the midline-crossing arteries. MethodsSix patients scheduled to undergo breast reconstruction using free deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps were examined. Each scan of the 12×8-cm region took approximately 8min. The accuracy of the tentative arteries evaluation defined by photoacoustic tomography was compared with the arterial phase detected by intraoperative indocyanine green angiography. The number of perforator vessels used for the flap, surgical time for flap elevation, and perfusion area ratio were compared with those of the control group. ResultsThe average match rate between tentative arteries prediction by photoacoustic tomography and arterial-phase assessment by intraoperative angiography in 5 patients was 79.8%. Each midline crossing artery showed individual variations. The photoacoustic tomography group (PAT-1 to 5) showed 1.8 perforators per flap, 163minutes for flap elevation, and 93% perfusion area, with no significant differences from the control group (N=5). A 63-year-old woman (PAT-6) with abdominal scars, including a midline abdominal incision, showed a preserved midline crossing artery. The planned single perforator deep inferior epigastric perforator flap was successfully applied to the contralateral perfusion area. ConclusionsPhotoacoustic tomography noninvasively visualizes the subcutaneous midline-crossing arterial networks. Understanding individual vascular variations can support preoperative planning and surgical indication of abdominal flaps, especially in patients with postsurgical scars.

205. MINIMALLY INVASIVE IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY WITH TOTAL MEDIASTINAL LYMPHADENECTOMY FOR THORACIC ESOPHAGEAL CANCER: SHORT- AND LONG-TERM OUTCOMES IN 139 PATIENTS

Abstract Background The McKeown approach is a standard surgery for thoracic esophageal cancer in Japan, as lymph node dissection of upper mediastinum and neck is mandatory. The thoracoscopic approach allows access to the lymph node chain along the laryngeal nerves from the chest and led us to introduce minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIILE) with radical lymphadenectomy for middle and lower esophageal cancer. Although circular-stapled anastomosis is popular in MIILE, the frequency of anastomotic complications has been reported to be high. We introduced MIILE with linear-stapled anastomosis in 2010. Methods To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of MIILE with radial lymphadenectomy and linear stapled anastomosis, we performed a retrospective cohort study of 139 consecutive patients. The endpoints included overall complications, anastomotic leak rate, nutritional status at 12 months after MIILE, and 5-year overall survival, and disease-free survival. Surgical Procedure After laparoscopic gastric tube construction, thoracoscopic or robotic esophagectomy with total mediastinal lymphadenectomy was done in the prone position. ICG angiography was used to assess gastric tube viability and sacrifice the ischemic portion in recent cases. Esophago-gastric anastomosis was performed using a linear stapler. The opening was closed with interrupted sutures and covered with the omentum to secure the anastomosis. Results There was 122 male and 17 female patients with median age of 69 years. Preoperative diagnosis was stage I/II/III/IV in 44/46/37/12 patients. Pathology results were SCC in 108 cases. Tumor location was middle/lower/EGJ in 58/64/17 patients. Preoperative chemotherapy or CRT was administered in 77 patients. Median thoracic surgery time was 297 minutes and blood loss was 53 mL. Median hospital stay was 17 days. The short-term complication rate of grade IIIa or higher was 8.7%. Anastomotic leak occurred in 8 patients (5.8%), three of whom required intervention. No leakage occurred after introduction of intraoperative ICG angiography. 90-day mortality was 0.7%. With a median follow-up of 41 months, 5-year overall survival rate was 68.3% and disease-free survival rates was 56.7%. For the 65 SCC patients with clinical stage II/III disease, 5-year OS rate was 58.7%. During follow-up period, 2 patients (1.4%) required balloon dilatation due to anastomotic stenosis. At 12 months after MIILE, the mean weight loss was 11.6% and the mean albumin level was 3.9. Discussion Compared to benchmark complication rates reported by the international Esophagectomy Complication Consensus Group (ECCG), the overall complication rate (47% vs. 59%) was not significantly lower, but the anastomotic leak rate was significantly lower (5.8 vs. 11.4%). Overall survival, disease-free survival, and nutritional outcomes were similar to those reported in Japanese clinical trials. Conclusions MIILE with linear-stapled anastomosis is a safe procedure with a low rate of serious complications. Survival and nutritional outcomes were excellent. It may be recommended as a standard procedure for lower and middle esophageal cancer. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/z6zyllnmie9qh3zhz2wd5/Okabe_ISDE.wmv?rlkey=4mig28fv5z2vhaui31tbk0mr9&dl=0

Blood perfusion assessment by near-infrared fluorescence angiography of epiploic appendages in prevention of anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection for ultra-low rectal cancer: a case-matched study.

The role of intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence angiography with indocyanine green in reducing anastomotic leakage (AL) has been demonstrated in colorectal surgery, however, its perfusion assessment mode, and efficacy in reducing anastomotic leakage after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (LsISR) need to be further elucidated. Aim was to study near-infrared fluorescent angiography to help identify bowel ischemia to reduce AL after LsISR. A retrospective case-matched study was conducted in one referral center. A total of 556 consecutive patients with ultra-low rectal cancer including 140 patients with fluorescence angiography of epiploic appendages (FAEA)were enrolled. Perfusion assessment by FAEA in the monochrome fluorescence mode. Patients were divided into two groups based on perfusion assessment by FAEA. The primary endpoint was the AL rate within 6 months, and the secondary endpoint was the structural sequelae of anastomotic leakage (SSAL). After matching, the study group (n = 109) and control group (n = 190) were well-balanced. The AL rate in the FAEA group was lower before (3.6% vs. 10.1%, P = 0.026) and after matching (3.7% vs. 10.5%, P = 0.036). Propensity scores matching analysis (OR 0.275, 95% CI 0.035-0.937, P 0.039), inverse probability of treatment weighting (OR 0.814, 95% CI 0.765-0.921, P 0.002), and regression analysis (OR 0.298, 95% CI 0.112-0.790, P = 0.015), showed that FAEA was an independent protector factor for AL. This technique can significantly shorten postoperative hospital stay [9 (6-13) vs. 10 (8-13), P = 0.024] and reduce the risk of SSAL (1.4% vs. 6.0%, P = 0.029). Perfusion assessment by FAEA can achieve better visualization in LsISR and reduce the incidence of AL, subsequently avoiding SSAL after LsISR.

Effect of singular value decomposition on removing injection variability in 2D quantitative angiography: An in silico and in vitro phantoms study.

Intraoperative 2D quantitative angiography (QA) for intracranial aneurysms (IAs) has accuracy challenges due to the variability of hand injections. Despite the success of singular value decomposition (SVD) algorithms in reducing biases in computed tomography perfusion (CTP), their application in 2D QA has not been extensively explored. This study seeks to bridge this gap by investigating the potential of SVD-based deconvolution methods in 2D QA, particularly in addressing the variability of injection durations. Building on the identified limitations in QA, the study aims to adapt SVD-based deconvolution techniques from CTP to QA for IAs. This adaptation seeks to capitalize on the high temporal resolution of QA, despite its two-dimensional nature, to enhance the consistency and accuracy of hemodynamic parameter assessment. The goal is to develop a method that can reliably assess hemodynamic conditions in IAs, independent of injection variables, for improved neurovascular diagnostics. The study included three internal carotid aneurysm (ICA) cases. Virtual angiograms were generated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for three physiologically relevant inlet velocities to simulate contrast media injection durations. Time-density curves (TDCs) were produced for both the inlet and aneurysm dome. Various SVD variants, including standard SVD (sSVD) with and without classical Tikhonov regularization, block-circulant SVD (bSVD), and oscillation index SVD (oSVD), were applied to virtual angiograms. The method was applied on virtual angiograms to recover the aneurysmal dome impulse response function (IRF) and extract flow related parameters such as Peak Height PHIRF, Area Under the Curve AUCIRF, and Mean transit time MTT. Next, correlations between QA parameters, injection duration, and inlet velocity were assessed for unconvolved and deconvolved data for all SVD methods. Additionally, we performed an in vitro study, to complement our in silico investigation. We generated a 2D DSA using a flow circuit design for a patient-specific internal carotid artery phantom. The DSA showcases factors like x-ray artifacts, noise, and patient motion. We evaluated QA parameters for the in vitro phantoms using different SVD variants and established correlations between QA parameters, injection duration, and velocity for unconvolved and deconvolved data. The different SVD algorithm variants showed strong correlations between flow and deconvolution-adjusted QA parameters. Furthermore, we found that SVD can effectively reduce QA parameter variability across various injection durations, enhancing the potential of QA analysis parameters in neurovascular disease diagnosis and treatment. Implementing SVD-based deconvolution techniques in QA analysis can enhance the precision and reliability of neurovascular diagnostics by effectively reducing the impact of injection duration on hemodynamic parameters.

Intra-aneurysmal contrast agent stasis during intraoperative digital subtraction angiography may predict long-term occlusion after clipping.

The routine use of intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (iDSA) increases detection of intracranial aneurysm (IA) remnants after microsurgical clipping. Spontaneous thrombosis of IA remnants after clipping is considered a rare phenomenon. We analyse iDSA characteristics to find predictors for IA remnant thrombosis. IA with intraoperative detection of a remnant after clipping were identified and divided into remnants experiencing spontaneous thrombosis, and remnants with long-term patency and/or remnant growth. Angiographic features of iDSA were analysed and compared between the two groups. Of 37 IAs with intraoperative remnant on 3D-iDSA, five sustained a spontaneous remnant thrombosis and remained occluded in long-term follow-up. In all five cases, iDSA revealed delayed inflow and consequent stasis of the contrast agent until the late venous phase.On the other hand, in all cases with persistent long-term IA remnants (n = 32) iDSA demonstrated timely arterial contrast inflow and wash-out without stasis of intra-aneurysmal contrast agent. Contrast stasis in IA remnants during iDSA appears to predict long-term IA occlusion, indicating that clip correction manoeuvres or even attempted endovascular treatment of the remnant IA may be avoided in these patients.

How to increase the success rate in microsurgical free and pedicled flap reconstructions with intraoperative multistep ICG imaging: A case series with 400 consecutive cases

BackgroundOver the last decade, microsurgical soft tissue transfer became the gold standard for a wide variety of reconstructions throughout the body. Continued improvement of instruments and surgical techniques allowed reaching a very high success rate, like the employment of intra-operative indocyanine green angiography (ICG-A). This study aims to assess and validate the role of a standard intraoperative ICG-A in free flap and pedicled flap surgery to improve the overall outcomes. Patients and MethodsFrom April 2018 and April 2023, four hundreds consecutive patients who underwent reconstruction using free flap and pedicled flap were enrolled. The ICG-A was always performed in free flap after elevation of the flap, after microsurgical anastomosis, immediately after the flap inset and after wound closure; in pedicled flap the sequential procedure was performed after elevation of the flap, after flap inset and after wound closure. ResultsAll four hundred patients who underwent flap reconstruction using intraoperative ICG angiography had an extremely low incidence of necrosis (0.75% partial necrosis among free flaps and pedicled flaps) and reoperation for perfusion-related complications (0.75% due to acute ischemia and 0.50% due to flap congestion). Minor complications like hematoma, seroma, wound dehiscence, and wound infections were managed with a second operation. No flaps were lost and all the patients were successfully treated. ConclusionsThe present report shows how the employment of systematic multiple-steps ICG angiography for intra-operative assessment of both free and pedicled flap’s perfusion can significantly reduce the complications rate, including flap loss and re-exploration surgeries, in a time- and cost-effective manner.

An Expert-Based Review on the Relevance and Management of Type 2 Endoleaks Following Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) are life-threatening and require emergent surgical therapy. Endovascular aortic repair for rupture (rEVAR) has become the leading strategy due to its minimal invasive approach with expected lower morbidity and mortality, especially in patients presenting with hemodynamic instability and relevant comorbidities. Following rEVAR, intraoperative angiography or early postinterventional computed tomography angiography have to exclude early type 1 or 3 endoleaks requiring immediate reintervention. Persistent type 2 endoleaks (T2ELs) after rEVAR, in contrast to elective cases, can cause possibly lethal situations due to continuing extravascular blood loss through the remaining aortic aneurysm rupture site. Therefore, early identification of relevant persistent T2ELs associated with continuous bleeding and hemodynamic instability and immediate management is mandatory in the acute postoperative setting following rEVAR. Different techniques and concepts for the occlusion of T2ELs after rEVAR are available, and most of them are also used for relevant T2ELs after elective EVAR. In addition to various interventional embolization procedures for persistent T2ELs, some patients require open surgical occlusion of T2EL-feeding arteries, abdominal compartment decompression or direct surgical patch occlusion of the aneurysm rupture site after rEVAR. So far, in the acute situation of rAAAs, indications for preemptive or intraoperative T2EL embolization during rEVAR have not been established. In the long term, persistent T2ELs after rEVAR can lead to continuous aneurysm expansion with the possible development of secondary proximal type I endoleaks and an increased risk of re-rupture requiring regular follow-up and early consideration for reintervention. To date, only very few studies have investigated T2ELs after rEVAR or compared outcomes with those from elective EVAR regarding the special aspects of persisting T2ELs. This narrative review is intended to present the current knowledge on the incidence, natural history, relevance and strategies for T2EL management after rEVAR.

The hybrid operation based on microsurgery assisted by intraoperative spinal angiography in patients with spinal dural arteriovenous fistula: a series of 45 cases from multicenter research

BackgroundTo assess the clinical effects of hybrid surgery, which includes spinal angiography-assisted microsurgery, in the treatment of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVF).MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 45 patients who underwent hybrid Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) resection between September 2019 and June 2022. The hybrid surgery involved intraoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of the spinal vessels to determine the source of the blood-supplying artery, location of the fistula and draining vein, indocyanine green fluorescence (ICG)-assisted microsurgical resection of the fistula, and postoperative DSA to verify therapeutic efficacy. The Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Barthel score, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and modified Aminoff-Logue score (key indicator) were used to assess the clinical effects of SDAVF resection.ResultsA series of 45 patients with SDAVF were successfully treated with hybrid surgery without fistula recurrence. There were no intraoperative complications related to spinal angiography, and none of the patients died. Postoperatively, two patients experienced clinical deterioration of spinal cord function, which manifested as bilateral lower extremity paralysis and bladder sphincter dysfunction. Postoperatively, improvement in mALS scores was observed in 16 cases (35.6%) within 1–2 days, 12 cases (26.7%) at 1 week, and 7 cases (15.6%) at 6 months. No SDAVF recurrence was detected in the spinal MRA examination 6 months after surgery. When compared with preoperative mALS scores, 35 cases (77.8%) showed significant improvement in symptoms, 8 cases (17.8%), remained unchanged, and 2 cases (4.4%) deteriorated. Compared with the preoperative scores, the postoperative mALS score was significantly decreased [postoperative vs. preoperative: 2(1,3) vs. 3(2,4)], HAMD score [(12.2 ± 5.5) vs. (19.6 ± 6.3)], HAMA score [(15.6 ± 5.5) vs. (20.5 ± 6.5)], and VAS score [3(2,5) vs. 5(4,8)]. Conversely, Barthel scoresshowed significant increase [(74.6 ± 8.7) vs. (67.8 ± 9.2)] (P < 0.05). However, the mRS scores were lower than preoperatively [1(1,2) vs. 2(1,2.5)], but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There was a significant increase in “good” neurological outcomes at follow-up compared with preoperative function (62.2% vs. 33.3%) (P = 0.023).ConclusionHybrid surgery is a safe and effective treatment for patients with SAVF, which is beneficial for improving anxiety, depression, spinal cord, and neurological function, and relieving pain. However, the treatment of patients with SDAVF is a complex, long-term process requiring further multidisciplinary interventions, including clinical care, psychosocial interventions, and neurorehabilitation.

Incisional negative pressure wound therapy (PrevenaTM) vs. conventional post-operative dressing after immediate breast reconstruction: a randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundSurgical complications following breast reconstruction remain a significant concern. This study aimed to investigate if incisional negative pressure wound therapy (iNPWT) using Prevena™ provides superior wound treatment for patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) compared to conventional postoperative dressing. Additionally, we investigated whether intraoperative indocyanine green angiography (ICG-A) could predict and prevent postoperative complications.MethodsA randomized controlled study (RCT) comprising 39 patients was conducted. The primary outcome was time until surgical drain removal. ICG-A was applied to evaluate tissue perfusion and compared to rate of postoperative complications. Patients were followed for one year, including postoperative complications, quality of life (QoL), scar evaluation, incidence of lymphedema and timely administration of adjuvant therapy.ResultsNo significant differences were observed in time to surgical drain removal, hospitalization or incidence of postoperative complications between the two groups. Analysis revealed no significant association between ICG-A results and postoperative complications. After one year, both groups exhibited similar QoL and satisfaction with scars. One patient developed lymphedema during follow-up, and adjuvant treatment was timely administered in 82%.ConclusionsThis RCT investigated iNPWT by Prevena™ compared to conventional postoperative dressing in IBR using implants or tissue expanders. ICG-A was applied to assess tissue perfusion and compared to postoperative complications. We did not find any significant differences in recovery time, hospitalization duration, postoperative complication rates, QoL, or scar satisfaction between the two groups within a one-year follow-up. Additionally, there were no significant association between ICG-A and postoperative complications. Larger randomized studies incorporating intraoperative ICG-A are needed to obtain higher quality data.Level of Evidence: Level I, Risk/Prognostic

Intraoperative indocyanine green angiography in preventing hypoparathyroidism after thyroid cancer surgery.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of indocyanine green angiography to identify devascularized parathyroids during thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer would decrease the rates of postoperative hypoparathyroidism. Retrospective study of patients who had undergone total thyroidectomy for treatment of thyroid cancer between March 2021 and March 2023. The indocyanine group included patients with all four parathyroids identified and evaluated by indocyanine green angiography at the end of the procedure. Those with parathyroid glands classified with no vascularization had the glands autotransplanted. A group without indocyanine angiography was used to compare results. The analysis included 100 patients in each group. Indocyanine angiography identified 14.75% of devascularized parathyroids at surgery. The number of parathyroids with a score of 2 (i.e., good vascularization) was not a safe predictor of normal parathyroid hormonelevels after surgery. Indeed, 29.2% of the patients with three parathyroids with a score of 2 developed transient hypoparathyroidism. Permanent hypoparathyroidism occurred in 7% of the patients without indocyanine group and in none of the patients in the indocyanine group (p = 0.014). Intraoperative angiography with indocyanine green could contribute to reduce the occurrence of permanent hypoparathyroidism in patients undergoing surgical treatment for thyroid cancer.

Effectiveness of the proximal medial branch in DIEP flaps for breast reconstruction using Hartrampf zone IV

BackgroundWhen performing breast reconstruction using a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap, including Hartrampf zone IV, the bipedicled DIEP flap has been argued to be necessary to ensure stable perfusion. However, a proximal medial branch (PMB), which is the most proximal perforator of the deep inferior epigastric artery, may make it possible to obtain adequate perfusion in a unilateral DIEP flap. This study aimed to clarify the detailed anatomical characteristics of PMB and its potential clinical application in breast reconstruction. MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted on breast reconstruction using the DIEP flap between May 2020 and July 2023. Data on PMB anatomy were collected from preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography, and contralateral perfusion of the flap was estimated using intraoperative indocyanine green angiography. ResultsThe PMB was present in approximately 85% of cases, arising near the lateral border of the rectus abdominis, branching caudomedially in over half of the cases, and perforating 2.3cm laterally and 8.8cm caudally on average from the umbilicus. The average perfusion area of both zones II and IV significantly expanded to 96.5% and 74.2%, respectively, when the PMB was included in the DIEP flap, and 9 of 22 cases showed contrast extending to the entire zone IV. ConclusionsThe use of the DIEP flap with PMB is a good option for substantial-volume breast reconstruction. When utilizing the PMB, it is important to consider its specific anatomy, location of the main perforator, and pedicle length.

Treatment of Recurrent, Twice Coiled, Previously Ruptured Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery-Posterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery Aneurysm With Excision and End-to-End Anastomosis: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Anterior inferior cerebellar artery-posterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA-PICA) variant is a well-established variant of the vertebrobasilar system. AICA-PICA aneurysms are extremely rare.1-3 There are only 12 cases reported in the literature.1-3 Here, we are presenting a case of a previously ruptured AICA-PICA dissecting aneurysm which had undergone coil embolization twice at an outside institution. The aneurysm continued to grow, and therefore, the patient was transferred to our institution for definitive treatment. Placement of a flow diverter was felt not to be feasible because of the acute bend of the vessel at the neck of the aneurysm. After a retrosigmoid craniotomy, the aneurysm sac was opened to untether the coil mass from the neck of the aneurysm. Clip reconstruction was attempted but intraoperative blood flow measurements demonstrated no flow in the distal outflow artery, indicating that the clip was occluding the parent vessel at the neck because of the challenging geometry and atherosclerosis. We then proceeded with an excision and end-to-end anastomosis of the AICA-PICA. The details of vascular reconstruction while the inflow and outflow arteries are at acute angle are described. Intraoperative indocyanine video angiography demonstrated complete exclusion of the aneurysm from the circulation and patency of the bypass. Postoperative computed tomography angiography demonstrated bypass patency. Postoperatively, the patient required a temporary external ventricular drain for hydrocephalus; however, she was eventually discharged home without any neurological deficits. The patient gave informed consent for the surgery and video recording. Institutional Review Board approval was deemed unnecessary.

Noninvasive Real-Time Assessment of Nipple-Areola Complex Perfusion Using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging in Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction.

Nipple-areola complex (NAC) necrosis is a major complication for breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy. Although intraoperative indocyanine green angiography helps to assess the viability of tissue, the imaging could be conservative which may lead to aggressive resection. The plastic surgeons are eager to know the perfusion changes of NAC throughout the perioperative period. In this prospective cohort study, the authors enrolled patients who underwent NSM and immediate direct-to-implant breast reconstruction. All patients underwent laser speckle contrast imaging before surgery, immediately after mastectomy, after implant placement, and 24h and 72h after surgery. A total of 94 breasts were analyzed, including 64 breasts healed with viable NAC and 30 breasts with NAC necrosis. In viable NACs, the average blood supply decreased to 56% after NSM and 42% after reconstruction, then recovered to 68% and 80% at 24-h and 72-h post-operation. In necrotic NACs, the average blood supply decreased to 33% after NSM and 24% after reconstruction, and partial perfusion recovery was also recorded at 24-h (31%) and 72-h (37%) post-operation. The cutoff value for predicting NAC viability is 40% after NSM and 25% after implant placement. The study quantified the NAC perfusion changes during the perioperative period. NAC perfusion decreased significantly after NSM and would be the lowest after the end of breast reconstruction. Viable NACs displayed more perfusion during the operation and showed significant nipple revascularization after breast reconstruction. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The role of body mass index in high- and low-velocity trauma causing knee injury associated with popliteal artery lesions

BackgroundAmong arterial traumas, osteoarticular traumas are particularly dangerous, and those involving the popliteal artery are associated with a high amputation rate. Despite representing a minority of arterial traumas, with an incidence that varies considerably by population and geographic location, traumatic lesions of the popliteal artery are challenging. This study aimed to verify the impact of body mass index (BMI) on arterial trauma damage and patient outcomes.MethodsData were retrospectively collected from the electronic medical reports of all patients with osteoarticular and vascular associated lesions treated in the emergency operating room at our institution between 1 January 2005 and 1 May 2022. Forty-one patients presented with lower limb arterial trauma (43.2%); popliteal artery lesions occurred in 11 of these patients (26.8%), who were eligible for inclusion in the study. The lesion mechanism was dislocation by high-velocity trauma in 9 patients and dislocation by low-velocity trauma in 3 patients. All 7 males (63.6%) experienced high-velocity trauma, and 2 of the 3 females experienced low-velocity trauma. Only one patient had an isolated popliteal artery lesion associated with fractures in the leg or the contralateral limb. Patients with low-velocity trauma were older than 54 years, while those with high-velocity trauma were aged 22 to 71 years.ResultsIn 10/11 patients (90.9%), revascularization was performed after osteoarticular stabilization and reduction of the dislocation or fracture. Intraoperative angiography was selectively used. Two patients required above-the-knee amputation after the procedure: one due to infection of the surgical access point and the other due to severe soft tissue injury. One patient died during hospitalization due to trauma-related complications and comorbidities.ConclusionsHigh-velocity trauma and low-velocity trauma in patients with a body mass index > 35 kg/m2 and knee lesions are associated with popliteal artery lesions. Revascularization success is not associated with high- or low-velocity trauma.