Invasive Approach Research Articles

Optimization of stereolithography 3D printing of microneedle micro-molds for ocular drug delivery

Microneedles (MN) have emerged as an innovative technology for drug delivery, offering a minimally invasive approach to administer therapeutic agents. Recent applications have included ocular drug delivery, requiring the manufacture of sub-millimeter needle arrays in a reproducible and reliable manner. The development of 3D printing technologies has facilitated the fabrication of MN via mold production, although there is a paucity of information available regarding how the printing parameters may influence crucial issues such as sharpness and penetration efficacy. In this study, we have developed and optimized a 3D-printed MN micro-mold using stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing to prepare a dissolving ocular MN patch. The effects of a range of parameters including aspect ratio, layer thickness, length, mold shape and printing orientation have been examined with regard to both architecture and printing accuracy of the MN micro-mold, while the effects of printing angle on needle fidelity was also examined for a range of basic shapes (conical, pyramidal and triangular pyramidal). Mechanical strength and in vitro penetration of the polymeric (PVP/PVA) MN patch produced from reverse molds fabricated using MN with a range of shapes and height, and aspect ratios were assessed, followed by ex vivo studies of penetration into excised scleral and corneal tissues. The optimization process identified the parameters required to produce MN with the sharpest tips and highest dimensional fidelity, while the ex vivo studies indicated that these optimized systems would penetrate the ocular tissue with minimal applied pressure, thereby allowing ease of patient self-administration.

SAGES guidelines for the use of laparoscopy during pregnancy.

When pregnant patients present with nonobstetric pathology, the physicians caring for them may be uncertain about the optimal management strategy. The aim of this guideline is to develop evidence-based recommendations for pregnant patients presenting with common surgical pathologies including appendicitis, biliary disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Guidelines Committee convened a working group to address these issues. The group generated five key questions and completed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. An expert panel then met to form evidence-based recommendations according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Expert opinion was utilized when the available evidence was deemed insufficient. The expert panel agreed on ten recommendations addressing the management of appendicitis, biliary disease, and IBD during pregnancy. Conditional recommendations were made in favor of appendectomy over nonoperative treatment of appendicitis, laparoscopic appendectomy over open appendectomy, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy over nonoperative treatment of biliary disease and acute cholecystitis specifically. Based on expert opinion, the panel also suggested either operative or nonoperative treatment of biliary diseases other than acute cholecystitis in the third trimester, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography rather than common bile duct exploration for symptomatic choledocholithiasis, applying the same criteria for emergent surgical intervention in pregnant and non-pregnant IBD patients, utilizing an open rather than minimally invasive approach for pregnant patients requiring emergent surgical treatment of IBD, and managing pregnant patients with active IBD flares in a multidisciplinary fashion at centers with IBD expertise.

Big surgeons don't need big incisions: Minimally invasive surgery and use of robotics in Otolaryngology: A Narrative Review.

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and robotics have revolutionized the field of Otolaryngology. MIS and robotics have reshaped traditional otolaryngological practices, offering patients a multitude of benefits. Reduced incision sizes and tissue manipulation minimize postoperative pain and discomfort, while also improving cosmetic outcomes. MIS has facilitated enhanced visualization and access to intricate anatomical structures, enabling the treatment of previously inaccessible lesions. MIS procedures also offer shorter hospital stays, reduced blood loss, and faster healing times whilst enhancing patient satisfaction and overall quality of life The ongoing progress in minimally invasive approaches solidifies their role as a cornerstone in modern Otolaryngology, and surgeons navigating this transformative landscape must embrace the learning curve associated with these advanced techniques, recognizing the potential for improved patient outcomes. This article explores the transformative impact of MIS and robotics on the diverse branches of Otolaryngology, highlighting the technological advancements that have enabled these techniques to flourish.

Surgical Management of Thoracolumbar Adjacent Segment Disease: Techniques and Outcomes in 107 Patients Undergoing Surgical Intervention.

Adjacent segment disease (ASD) is a known sequela of thoracolumbar instrumented fusions. Various surgical options are available to address ASD in patients with intractable symptoms who have failed conservative measures. However, the optimal treatment strategy for symptomatic ASD has not been established. We examined several clinical outcomes utilizing different surgical interventions for symptomatic ASD. A retrospective review was performed for a consecutive series of patients undergoing revision surgery for thoracolumbar ASD between October 2011 and February 2022. Patients were treated with endoscopic decompression (N = 17), microdiscectomy (N = 9), lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF; N = 26), or open laminectomy and fusion (LF; N = 55). The primary outcomes compared between groups were re-operation rates and numeric pain scores for leg and back at 2 weeks, 10 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postoperation. Secondary outcomes included time to re-operation, estimated blood loss, and length of stay. Of the 257 patients who underwent revision surgery for symptomatic ASD, 107 patients met inclusion criteria with a minimum of 1-year follow-up. The mean age of all patients was 67.90 ± 10.51 years. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in age, gender, preoperative American Society of Anesthesiologists scoring, number of previously fused levels, or preoperative numeric leg and back pain scores. The re-operation rates were significantly lower in LF (12.7%) and LLIF cohorts (19.2%) compared with microdiscectomy (33%) and endoscopic decompression (52.9%; P = 0.005). Only LF and LLIF cohorts experienced significantly decreased pain scores at all 4 follow-up visits (2 weeks, 10 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months; P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively) relative to preoperative scores. Symptomatic ASD often requires treatment with revision surgery. Fusion surgeries (either stand-alone lateral interbody or posterolateral with instrumentation) were most effective and durable with respect to alleviating pain and avoiding additional revisions within the first 12 months following revision surgery. This study emphasizes the importance of risk-stratifying patients to identify the least invasive approach that treats their symptoms and reduces the risk of future surgeries.

Abstract PO4-18-09: SMALL: Open Surgery versus Minimally invasive vacuum-Assisted excision for smaLL screen-detected breast cancer – a UK phase III randomised multi-centre trial

Abstract Background: Mammographic screening programmes reduce breast cancer mortality but detect many small good-prognosis tumours which may not progress. Screen-detected cancers are currently treated with standard surgery and adjuvant therapies, with associated morbidities. There is a need to reduce overtreatment of good prognosis tumours and numerous studies are evaluating omission of radiotherapy in low-risk disease. However, there is little evidence to support surgical de-escalation, although percutaneous minimally invasive treatment approaches have been described. Vacuum-assisted excision (VAE) is in widespread use for management of lesions of uncertain malignant potential and benign lesions. SMALL (ISRCTN 12240119) is designed to determine the feasibility of using this approach to treat small invasive tumours detected within the UK NHS Breast Screening Programme. Methods: SMALL is a phase III multicentre randomised trial comparing standard surgery with VAE for screen-detected cancers. Main eligibility criteria are age ≥47 years, unifocal grade 1 tumours with maximum diameter 15mm, strongly ER/PR+ve and HER2-ve, with negative axillary staging. Patients are randomised 2:1 to VAE or surgery, with no axillary surgery in the VAE arm. Completeness of excision is assessed radiologically, and if excision is incomplete, patients undergo surgery. Adjuvant radiotherapy and endocrine therapy are mandated in the VAE arm but may be omitted following surgery. Co-primary end-points are: 1. Non-inferiority comparison of the requirement for a second procedure following excision 2. Single arm analysis of local recurrence (LR) at 5 years following VAE Recruitment of 800 patients will permit demonstration of 10% non-inferiority of VAE for requirement of a second procedure. This ensures sufficient patients for single arm analysis of LR rates, where expected LR free survival is 99% at 5 years, with an undesirable survival probability after VAE of 97%. To ensure that the trial as a whole only has 5% alpha, the significance level for each co-primary outcome is set at 2.5% with 90% power. The Data Monitoring Committee will monitor LR events to ensure these do not exceed 3% per year. Secondary outcome measures include time to ipsilateral recurrence, overall survival, complications, quality of life and health economic analysis. A novel feature of SMALL is the integration of a QuinteT Recruitment Intervention (QRI), which aims to optimise recruitment to the study. Recruitment challenges are identified by analysing recruiter/patient interviews and audio-recordings of trial discussions, and by review of trial screening logs, eligibility and recruitment data and study documentation. Solutions to address these are developed collaboratively, including individual/group recruiter feedback and recruitment tips documents. Results: SMALL opened in December 2019, but recruitment halted in 2020 for 5 months due to COVID-19. At 6th July 2023, 39 centres are open, with 300 patients randomised from 32 of these, with a randomisation rate of approximately 45%, and a per site recruitment rate of 0.4-0.5 patients/month. Despite the pandemic, SMALL achieved the internal pilot feasibility targets and continues to recruit to the main study, with estimated completion of recruitment in June 2025. Drawing from preliminary QRI findings and insights from patient representatives, a recruitment tips document has been circulated (on providing balanced information about treatments, encouraging recruiters to engage with patient preferences, and explaining randomisation). Individual recruiter feedback has commenced and wider feedback is being delivered across sites via recruitment training workshops. Conclusion: Despite pandemic-related challenges, SMALL has excellent recruitment to date and is expected to have a global impact on treatment of breast cancer within mammographic screening programmes. SMALL is funded by the UK NIHR HTA programme award 17/42/32 Citation Format: Stuart McIntosh, Charlotte Coles, David Dodwell, Kenneth Elder, Jessica Foster, Claire Gaunt, Amanda Kirkham, Iain Lyburn, Sangeetha Paramasivan, Jenna Morgan, Sarah Pinder, Shelley Potter, Tracy Roberts, Nisha Sharma, Hilary Stobart, Elizabeth Southgate, Sian Taylor-Phillips, Matthew Wallis, Daniel Rea. SMALL: Open Surgery versus Minimally invasive vacuum-Assisted excision for smaLL screen-detected breast cancer – a UK phase III randomised multi-centre trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-18-09.

Abstract PO4-15-12: Personalized circulating tumor DNA monitoring to predict response to neoadjuvant therapy in patients with early-stage breast cancer

Abstract Introduction Longitudinal ctDNA testing offers a minimally invasive approach for monitoring treatment response in patients with breast cancer (BC). In this study, we evaluated whether serial ctDNA testing during neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) can provide an early indication of treatment response or resistance and disease progression. Methods In this real world study, longitudinal blood samples collected from 159 patients with stage I-III BC were analyzed using a personalized, tumor-informed ctDNA assay (SignateraTM bespoke mPCR-NGS assay). Of the 159 patients, 157 received standard of care NAT; the remaining 2 patients were treated with endocrine therapy only in the neoadjuvant setting. Blood samples were collected at the time of diagnosis from 71 patients (baseline) and longitudinally during treatment from 159 patients (median time between time points: 1.5 months). ctDNA status and dynamics were correlated with clinicopathological features and surgical outcomes available at the time of data cut off. Results At baseline, ctDNA was detected in 72% (51/71) of patients. Baseline ctDNA detection rates varied based on histologic subtypes: 82% (28/34) in patients with triple negative breast cancer, 88% (15/17) in patients with HER2+ disease and 40% (8/20) in patients with ER+HER2- BC. ctDNA was detectable at baseline in 72% (26/36) of patients with clinical T1-2 disease and 92% (11/12) of patients with T3-4 disease. ctDNA was detected in 64% (16/25) of patients with clinical N0, whereas among patients with at least one positive lymph node, ctDNA was detected in 92% (22/24). At baseline, 65% (31/48) of patients with low/intermediate-grade disease were ctDNA-positive, while 81% (25/31) of patients with high-grade disease were ctDNA-positive. Similarly, 83% (24/29) of patients with high levels (&amp;gt;20%) of Ki67 expression had detectable ctDNA prior to treatment initiation, while only 22% (2/9) of those with low level (&amp;lt; 20%) of Ki67 expression had ctDNA detected. Surgical outcomes were available for 22 patients of whom 16 had achieved pathologic complete response (pCR). While 3/16 pts were ctDNA negative at baseline, all of the remaining cases except one patient with baseline ctDNA detection and serial measurements (11/12) became ctDNA negative by the end of two months of treatment. Despite achieving pCR, one patient with inflammatory ER+HER2+ BC remained ctDNA positive before and after the surgery, which informed a change in the adjuvant treatment strategy. Among those with residual disease (pT1c-T3), 28% (7/25) remained ctDNA positive after two months of NAT. Association between ctDNA dynamics and surgical outcomes of the remaining 137 patients will be presented at the time of the conference. Conclusions This real world study demonstrates the prevalence of ctDNA detection and dynamics in patients with eBC treated with NAT. ctDNA monitoring during NAT can facilitate real-time assessment of treatment response and serve as an early indicator of subsequent pCR to NAT. Citation Format: Mridula George, Trishala Meghal, Coral Omene, Ekaterina Kalashnikova, Janie Fielder, Nisha Ohri, Shicha Kumar, Valeria Burkovskaya, Preena Patel, Ashley Young, Melanie Racenstein, Tinamarie Bauman, Wassim Mchayleh, Deborah Toppmeyer, Shridar Ganesan, Barry Rosen, Angel Rodriguez, Minetta Liu. Personalized circulating tumor DNA monitoring to predict response to neoadjuvant therapy in patients with early-stage breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-15-12.

The Incidence of Winged Scapula after Thoracic Cancer Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and surgery is still the first treatment of choice in early and locally advanced cases. One of the iatrogenic complications is the serratus anterior palsy, which could lead to a winged scapula (WS). Unfortunately, the incidence of this deficit in thoracic surgery is unclear. Our primary aim was to determine the incidence of WS in lung cancer patients in a single-center experience. We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data with patients eligible for oncological thoracic surgery from March 2013 until January 2014. A physical evaluation of the WS was performed pre- and postoperatively, at the discharge and after 1 year of follow-up. A total of 485 patients were evaluated; 135 (27.8%) showed WS. Longer operative time (p < 0.0001), type of surgery (p < 0.0001), lymphadenectomy (p < 0.0001), and neoadjuvant treatment prior surgery (p = 0.0005) were significantly related to the WS injury. Multivariable analysis showed that type of surgery was significantly associated with WS (p < 0.0001). After 1 year, 41.6% still had WS. The incidence of WS was similar to the literature. As WS incidence is underdiagnosed, assessment and correct education about possible deficits or impairments should be improved. Moreover, when a minimally invasive approach is not planned, it is a good clinical practice to discuss surgical strategies with surgeons to reduce this deficit.

Abstract PO5-15-06: NVIGEN X® Comprehensive Liquid Biopsy for Sensitive ctDNA, Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC), and Protein Detection in Breast Cancer: Next-Generation Sequencing, Patient Case Studies, and Clinical Implications

Abstract Background Breast cancer (BC) represents the most prevalent cancer and is a leading cause of cancer related mortality among women worldwide. Despite notable therapeutic advancements, concern for metastatic recurrence remains a significant challenge. Liquid biopsy has emerged as a promising method for monitoring cancer treatment efficacy and disease progression. However, existing technologies predominantly focus on ctDNA, and their clinical utility is hindered by limited detection sensitivity and accuracy. To address these challenges, NVIGEN has developed NVIGEN X® comprehensive liquid biopsy, a novel minimally invasive approach that integrates ctDNA, CTC, and protein biomarkers. This comprehensive method could enable longitudinal monitoring of tumor dynamics, offering valuable insights into cancer biology, treatment responses, and emerging therapeutic targets. Here, we showcase compelling patient case studies, and the potential clinical implications of our technology for an exciting and evolving field in cancer diagnostics. Method Patients with advanced breast cancer were prospectively identified and consented. 10mL blood per timepoint was collected in Streck tubes. ctDNA, CTC and proteins were captured from a single tube of blood using NVIGEN magnetic nanoparticles according to established protocols. Following DNA extraction, ctDNA and CTC samples underwent NVIGEN’s highly sensitive sample workflow, optimized for NGS data accuracy and efficiency, employing hybridization capture with a 180 gene customizable cancer panel. Sequenced data were processed with NVIGEN’s proprietary high-sensitivity data analysis pipeline. Gene alterations identified from both ctDNA and CTC samples were analyzed and integrated to provide a comprehensive view of the tumor profile. Protein biomarkers of interest were detected using NVIGEN’s on-beads ELISA assay. Correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between the detected gene alterations, protein biomarkers, ctDNA/CTC data, and clinicopathologic features. Treatment response and identification of potential new treatment targets were evaluated based on the integrated analysis of ctDNA, CTC, protein biomarkers, and patient information. Result We collected 94 blood samples from 85 patients. Here we will present data from initial 36 patient samples. Of these 36 patients, 18 were tested with ctDNA/protein biomarkers (duo assays), and 18 were tested with ctDNA/CTC/protein biomarkers (trio assays). Comparison between duo and trio samples revealed that trio samples provided 2.5 times the number of detected variants compared to duo samples, with the median of variant numbers in duo assays being 52 (range 22-442), and in trio assays being 130 (range 73-703). Over 50% of the detected variants fell within the 0.1-0.5% variant allele frequency (VAF) range (number 2599) with total variant number being 5123. Several patient case studies were conducted using serial blood samples. These case studies revealed notable patterns of important gene alterations, such as ESR1, ERBB2 and PIK3CA, and demonstrated trends in the presence of these genes in ctDNA, CTC, or their coexistence. Protein biomarker information was correlated with ctDNA, CTC NGS data, and patient clinical status. Conclusions The analysis of the presented data from 36 patient samples with advanced breast cancer highlight the clinical relevance and potential significance of utilizing ctDNA, CTC and protein biomarkers in monitoring disease dynamics, treatment response, and guiding personalized treatment approaches. Our results suggest that individual protein biomarker analysis may be crucial in supporting personalized diagnostics and enabling more effective personalized medicine strategies. Citation Format: Aihua Fu, Minh Ton, Kevan Wang, Weiwei Gu, Henry Jin, Nuzhat Shaikh, Sasha Madan, Shreya Perepa, Tianhong Li, Minetta Liu, Heather Parsons, George Sledge, Fauzia Riaz. NVIGEN X® Comprehensive Liquid Biopsy for Sensitive ctDNA, Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC), and Protein Detection in Breast Cancer: Next-Generation Sequencing, Patient Case Studies, and Clinical Implications [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-15-06.

Orbital Prosthesis Rehabilitation in Biomedical Engineering by Means of Computer Vision-Photogrammetry and 3D Prototyping

Eye loss may be caused as a result of eye trauma, accidents, or malignant tumors, which leads the patient to undergo surgery to remove the damaged parts. This research examines the potential of computer vision represented by Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetry in fabricating the orbital prosthesis as a noninvasive and low-cost technique. A low-cost camera was used to collect the data towards extracting the dense 3D data of the patient facial features following Structure from Motion-Multi View Stereo (SfM-MVS) algorithms. To restore the defective orbital, a Reverse Engineering (RE) based approach has been applied using the similarity RE algorithms based on the opposite healthy eye to rehabilitate the defected orbital precisely. Following quality assurance and best-fitting statistical analysis, the digital model of the restored eye was converted into a physical model using 3D prototyping. This is later used to fabricate the mold for casting medical-grade silicone to obtain the final orbital prosthesis. The results show the power of SfM photogrammetry by offering a high-accuracy model of 0.048 mm and 0.186 mm relative errors acquired in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. These results boost the RE implementation in medicine to reconstruct the patient's damaged eye by mirroring the image of the healthy eye using RE algorithms. Therefore, the margin matching results claim perfect data capture settings and successful data processing workflow as designed in the first place. Consequently, one can claim this approach effectively rehabilitates maxillofacial deformities as an alternative to invasive restoration approaches. The presented approach provided a low-cost and safe workflow that avoids the patient the risks of exposure to harmful rays or magnetic fields available in other sensors.

The Results of Minimally Invasive Implantation of the HeartMate 3 LVAD Left Ventricular Assist Device

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety, feasibility and effectiveness of minimally invasive HeartMate 3 LVAD implantation. Methodology47 patients who underwent the HeartMate 3 LVAD implantation by sternotomy and 26 ones who had implantation via minimally invasive method were analyzed. The observation lasted from November 2016 to May 2020. ResultsECMO as a bridge to LVAD, was more usual in the sternotomy group (11% vs. 0%, p=0,03). In the minimally invasive group, a history of previous cardiac surgery was more common (54% vs. 12%, p<0.001), this was the main indication for a minimally invasive approach in our institution. Patients undergoing a minimally invasive implantation had a significantly longer duration of surgery (Med.=367.5 min vs. Med.=265.0 min, p<0.001), and significantly higher intraoperative use of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet concentrates (PCs). There was no significant difference in the number of postoperative bleedings requiring surgical intervention. Postoperative wound infections were observed significantly more often in the sternotomy group (6% vs. 0.0%, p <0.001). There was no significant difference in survival between groups in the first 180 days after surgery. A slightly lower percentage of patients reached 2-year post surgery survival in the group undergoing sternotomy, but this finding was not statistically significant. The mean survival time among sternotomy patients was 430.0 days (+/- 291.77 days) vs. 633.15 days (+/- 426.84) in minimally invasive group. ConclusionsMinimally invasive implantation of the HeartMate 3 LVAD may be an alternative method of LVAD implantation in a selected group of patients.

Stepwise caries intervention: An approach precursive to endodontic intervention – A case series

Abstract Stepwise caries excavation, being conceptualized for quite a time now, aims at phasic and thoughtful excavation of the diseased tissue, with a simultaneous attention to the fundamental principles of restorative dentistry. It has gained a humongous momentum conventionally, as the clinicians have eagle-eyed minimally invasive approaches for every possible treatment modality. The attempted case series showcases six cases of deep carious lesion managed by two-step caries excavation protocol in healthy patients diagnosed with chronic symptomatic reversible pulpitis, conclusively holding the longest favorable follow-up of over 3 years. This technique has a paramount clinical potential, conditional on appropriateness of case selection and clinical technique.

Robotic endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: A single institution case series

BackgroundRobotic-assisted, endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (RE-TLIF) is a promising, minimally invasive surgical option for degenerative lumbar spondylosis/spondylolisthesis; however, outcomes data and efficacy are limited, especially in multilevel disease. Here, we present the first reported series of patients that underwent either single or multilevel RE-TLIF. MethodsA retrospective review was performed on 23 consecutive patients who underwent a single level or multilevel RE-TLIF by a single surgeon. Variables included demographics, perioperative results, pain scores, and functional outcome scores. ResultsEighteen patients (78.3 %) underwent single level RE-TLIF and 5 patients (21.7 %) underwent multilevel RE-TLIF. The median reduction of visual analog scale (VAS) for low back pain (LBP) of all subjects was 6 (IQR = 4.5, 6.5) with no significant difference between single level and multilevel RE-TLIF (p = 0.565). The median reduction of VAS for leg pain of all subjects 7 (IQR = 6, 8) with no significant difference between single level and multilevel RE-TLIF (p = 0.702). Median blood loss was 25 cc (IQR = 25, 25) and 50 cc (IQR = 25, 100) for single and multilevel RE-TLIF, respectively (p = 0.025), whereas median length of stay was 1 (IQR = 1, 1; mean = 1.0 ± 00.18) days and 1 (IQR = 1, 2; mean = 1.4 ± 00.54) days, respectively (p = 0.042). One major complication was observed requiring reoperation for demineralized bone matrix migration resulting in an L5 radiculopathy. ConclusionsSingle and multi-level RE-TLIF appears to be a safe and efficacious approach with comparable outcomes to open and other minimally invasive approaches. Additionally, we observed favorable accuracy in robot-assisted pedicle screw, endoscope, and interbody device placement.

A-66 | Thrombolytics Assisted Invasive Approach versus Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

A-66 | Thrombolytics Assisted Invasive Approach versus Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Thoracoscopic-assisted, minimally invasive versus off-pump bypass grafting for single vessel coronary artery disease – A propensity matched analysis

ObjectiveThis study compared perioperative outcomes after off-pump revascularization through a thoracoscopic-assisted (non-robotic) minimally invasive approach (Endo-CAB) or sternotomy approach (OPCAB) for patients with single vessel left anterior descending (LAD) disease. MethodsIn this retrospective, propensity matched cohort study, 266 consecutive patients were included in the Endo-CAB group (n = 136) and OPCAB group (n = 130). After propensity score matching 116 Endo-CAB and 116 OPCAB patients were compared. ‘Textbook outcome’ was defined as the absence of 30-day mortality, re-exploration for bleeding, postoperative ischemia, cardiac tamponade, cerebrovascular events, wound infection, new-onset arrhythmias, pneumonia, placement of chest drains and prolonged hospital stay (> 7 days). Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors for textbook outcome. ResultsTextbook outcome occurred significantly more frequent in the Endo-CAB group compared to the OPCAB group (81.9% vs. 59.5%, p < 0.001). Patients undergoing Endo-CAB surgery had shorter hospital admission (3.0 [3.0–4.0] vs. 5.0 [4.0–6.0] days, p < 0.001), less blood loss (225 [150–355] vs. 450 [350–600] ml, p < 0.001). Other perioperative outcomes were comparable for both groups. Regression analysis demonstrated that Endo-CAB approach was an independent positive predictor for textbook outcome (OR 3.02, 95% CI 1.61–5.66, p < 0.001). ConclusionsOur study suggests that patients undergoing Endo-CAB surgery have improved perioperative outcome resulting in higher rates of textbook outcome for the treatment of single vessel CAD. This technique could be widely available since routine thoracoscopic instruments are used.

Two case reports of spontaneous coronary dissection

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has nowadays been described as a non-negligible etiology of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Its prevalence approximates 3% in most cohorts. It mainly affects women in the young to middle-aged range. Individuals with SCAD typically exhibit fewer conventional cardiovascular risk factors associated with ischemic heart disease compared to those with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Nevertheless, some SCAD patients may present with risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, and dyslipidemia, although their direct contribution to SCAD risk remains uncertain. We present two cases of spontaneous coronary dissection to explore its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment options. Learning objectives · Recognize spontaneous coronary artery dissection as the possible cause of ACS in females even with cardiovascular risk factors. Learn the importance of angiographic control after a conservative therapy that may lead to a more invasive approach.

Efficacy of verbal suggestion, verbal suggestion with a tuning fork, and verbal suggestion with a cotton swab for inducing the paroxysmal event during video-EEG recording in children with suspected psychogenic nonepileptic seizures

IntroductionVideo-electroencephalogram (EEG) with suggestion is widely considered the gold standard for diagnosing psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). However, ethical concerns and uncertainties persist regarding the most minimally invasive and least deceptive suggestion approach. Materials and methodsIn an open-label randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the effectiveness of three suggestion methods (verbal suggestion, verbal suggestion with a tuning fork, and verbal suggestion with a cotton swab) during short-term video-EEG (STVEEG) recordings to induce PNES in children aged 5–18 years. If the paroxysmal event couldn't be elicited with the assigned method, alternative techniques were employed. ResultsOut of 97 initially screened children, 75 were enrolled, with 25 in each group. The efficacy of all three suggestion methods was comparable in reproducing paroxysmal events (success rate of 16/25, 17/25 and 17/25 in verbal suggestion only, verbal suggestion with tuning fork and sterile cotton swab group respectively, p = 0.83) and the time required for induction (median of 2, 3 and 3 min respectively, p = 0.21). After trying alternative methods, 20 %, 12 %, and 12 % more patients in these three groups, respectively, were able to reproduce the paroxysmal event, with the differences not reaching statistical significance (p = 0.74). The assigned induction method or the success/failure of event reproduction did not significantly impact clinical outcomes at 12 weeks, and none of the patients in whom PNES could not be reproduced during STVEEG were later found to have an organic cause. Only the presence of psychiatric comorbidity independently predicted successful event reproduction during STVEEG, with statistical significance even after adjusting for other variables (p = 0.03). ConclusionThe efficacy of verbal suggestion alone in inducing paroxysmal nonepileptic seizures is on par with using a tuning fork or cotton swab in conjunction with verbal suggestion during STVEEG.

Evaluation of mediastinoscopy for cranial mediastinal and tracheobronchial lymphadenectomy in canine cadavers.

To report technical feasibility and describe procedural details of a novel single incision minimally invasive approach to the mediastinum in cadaver dogs. Cadaveric study. Large breed (25-40 kg) cadaver dogs (n = 10). Three of 10 cadavers were used for preliminary technique development without data recording. Cadaver specimens underwent pre- and postoperative thoracic computed tomographic scans. Seven dogs were placed in dorsal recumbency and mediastinoscopy was performed via a SILS port placed cranial to the thoracic inlet with CO2 insufflation of the mediastinum at 2-4 mmHg. Retrieval of all CT and visually identified mediastinal lymph nodes (LN) was attempted; endoscopic compartmental and individual LN dissection times and subjective operative challenges were recorded. Procedural success scores for visualization and dissection as well as NASA-task force index scores were recorded per lymph node, per cadaver. Median time required for initial approach including SILS placement was 5 min (range 5-10 min). Individual LN retrieval times ranged from 2 to 32 min. Mediastinoscopic retrieval of LNs was most commonly successful for the left tracheobronchial LN (7/7), followed by the right tracheobronchial LN (4/7), the left and right sternal LNs (3/7 each), and the cranial mediastinal LNs (1/7). Post-procedure pleural gas was identified on CT in 4/7 cadavers. Mediastinoscopy as reported was feasible in large breed canine cadavers and retrieval or cup biopsy of a variety of lymph nodes is possible from the described approach. Application in living animals and its associated challenges should be further investigated. Mediastinoscopy may provide a novel minimally invasive approach to the evaluation and oncologic staging of the cranial mediastinum in dogs.

Arterial Embolization as a Prominent Option in the Treatment of Hemorrhoid Diseases

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is the most common anorectal disease, affecting millions of people worldwide. The most common clinical picture is rectal bleeding, which significantly impairs the quality of life of patients. Treatment of HD varies from diet and lifestyle changes to radical surgery, depending on the degree and severity of symptoms. Endovascular embolization of superior rectal artery (SRA), known as emborrhoid technique, has recently emerged as a promising minimally invasive approach. Because hemorrhoidal plexuses are almost entirely fed through the SRA. They are also fed less by middle rectal artery (MRA) and rarely inferior rectal artery (IRA). Due to some anastomoses and unpredictable variations, vascular structures must be examined before the procedure. So far, there have been reports of studies involving a small number of patients regarding the use of coils and particles as embolization agents. Some of these used particles and coils alone, while others used a combination of particles and/or coils. The studies demonstrated similar clinical efficacy with satisfactory results, and no significant complications such as ischemic necrosis were observed. The use of liquid embolic agents such as N-butyl-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) has also recently been suggested to be effective. In conclusion, the current data support the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of rectal artery embolization for hemorrhoidal disease. However, there is no guideline or consensus in the selection of embolic materials. More randomized controlled studies are needed. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of embolization applications in hemorrhoidal diseases.

The role of developmental factors in hypoplasia of deciduous teeth and treatment specifics in pediatric dental practice

Relevance. Congenital and systemic diseases can lead to developmental errors in the enamel organ, resulting in anomalies such as enamel hypoplasia. The high prevalence of these defects illustrates the vulnerability of teeth to changes in the intrauterine and postnatal environments. Enamel hypoplasia contributes to the development of caries and tooth wear by making enamel thinner, more retentive to dental plaque, and less resistant to acid degradation compared to normal enamel. Surfaces of the affected hard tissues are smooth and exhibit a symmetric distribution pattern. The occurrence of enamel hypoplasia in children is a significant factor in the development of caries; thus, they require comprehensive treatment and ongoing preventive care by a pediatric dentist.Purpose. To analyze the impact of factors contributing to the development of deciduous teeth hypoplasia in children, on the frequency of this condition and the specifics of its treatment by a pediatric dentist.Materials and Methods. The study involved the examination and treatment of children aged 4-12 at the Dental and Implantology Department of Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University over a 12-month period. Out of 972 children, 67 were diagnosed with systemic enamel hypoplasia. A questionnaire was developed for statistical research, and data were processed using Statistica 7.0 software Statistica 7.0 (StatSoft, США).Results. The survey revealed chronic diseases in 16.42% of mothers. During pregnancy, 68.6% of the mothers visited a dentist once, and 31.3% visited two to three times. Most mothers experienced early pregnancy toxemia—67% in the first half and 58.2% in the second half of the pregnancy. Additionally, 50.7% suffered from acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, and 25.4% had gastrointestinal diseases. Feeding practices involved breastfeeding in 68.7% of cases and artificial feeding in 31.3% (up to 3 months – 16.4%, up to 1 year – 64.1%, up to 2 years – 19.4%). Examination of the oral cavity in 67 children with systemic hypoplasia revealed a spotted form in 79.1% of cases and a purely destructive form in 20.9% of cases. Contemporary conservative dentistry emphasizes minimally invasive approaches to the treatment of such dental defects.Conclusion. The study of deciduous tooth hypoplasia in children highlighted the importance of the health status of the expectant mother and timely sanitation of the oral cavity. Particular attention should be paid to maternal infectious diseases, specifically influenza and ARVI. The findings underscore the need for preventive measures against temporary tooth hypoplasia from the onset of pregnancy planning to enhance the dental well-being of children.

RESIN INFILTRATION OF HYPOMINERALIZED ENAMEL DEFECTS WITH COMPOSITE RESIN COMBINED RESTORATION: CASE REPORT

The purpose of these case reports is the aesthetic treatment of enamel defects using the resin infiltration method and conservative approach. The treatment of three patients who came to our clinic complaining of an opaque enamel lesion in the upper anterior region is described. During oral examination, it was determined that the teeth were healthy but there were superficial and deep developmental defects. Before starting the restorative procedures, it was planned to treat the teeth using the resin infiltration method. The Icon infiltration technique, which has microinvasion technology, was applied in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Follow-up examinations were performed at 2, 6, 8 months and 1 year in 3 cases. The most aesthetic results can be achieved in a short time by using the resin infiltration method and minimally invasive approaches. The micro abrasive technique is effective in superficial defects, but is insufficient in more advanced deep enamel defects. A combination of resin infiltration technique, composite resin restoration and bleaching procedures to treat increased opacity, discoloration and defects in the anterior teeth can result in a homogeneous and aesthetic appearance of the teeth.