Mid-term Outcomes Of Patients Research Articles

Mid-term outcomes following transfemoral revision of total hip arthroplasty for Vancouver B2/B3 periprosthetic fractures

IntroductionPeriprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) are often the reason for revising total hip arthroplasty (RTHA). Converting these fractures into modified extended trochanteric osteotomy (mETO) facilitates stem revision. Modular revision stems are a common choice with good results. We present mid-term outcomes in patients undergoing RTHA for Vancouver B2/B3 PFF using a tapered, fluted modular stem with an mETO approach. Materials and methodsA single-center analysis of patients with RTHA for Vancouver B2/B3 PFF using a single modular implant with mETO was performed (2007 – 2019). Clinical outcome (mobility, range of motion, function), radiological outcome (fracture healing, stem subsidence) and patient reported outcome measures (FJS-12, HHS, EQ-5D) were assessed. ResultsNinety-seven patients (mean age 78.1 years, BMI 25.8 kg/m2, 85.6% B2-fractures) were included; 80 patients had complete clinical and radiological follow-ups. Normal unaided gait without limping was achieved in 38/80 patients. After one year fracture / mETO healing occurred in 74/80 patients; 5.3 years after surgery, the respective FJS-12, HHS and EQ-5D (available in 34 patients) averaged 81.3 ± 30.2, 71.4 ± 18.7 and 0.8 ± 0.2. We documented 7 in-hospital deaths, 18.8% postoperative complications and 13.8% revisions with stem revisions being most commonly for subsequent PFF or subsidence. ConclusionGood clinical and radiological outcomes and rather low complication and revision rates (18.8% and 13.8%) were achieved. FJS-12 showed excellent results in patients undergoing RTHA for Vancouver B2/B3 PFF using a cementless, dual modular titanium revision stem and an mETO approach. Joint awareness was thereby similar to previously reported primary THA results at 5.3 years follow-up.

Procedure-Associated Costs and Mid-Term Outcomes of Endovascular Zone 0 and Zone 1 Aortic Arch Repair

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of proximal aortic arch pathology provides a less-invasive treatment option for high-risk patients ineligible for open arch reconstruction. However, the fiscal impact of these techniques remains unclear. Therefore, our objective was to characterize the mid-term outcomes after Zone 0 and Zone 1 TEVAR and describe the associated technical costs, revenues, and net margins at a single tertiary medical center. We examined all patients who underwent TEVAR between April 2011 and August 2019 via retrospective chart review. Patients were categorized by proximal endograft extent to identify Zone 0 or Zone 1 repairs. Procedural characteristics and outcomes were described. Technical costs, revenues, and margins were obtained from the hospital finance department. We identified 10 patients (6 Zone 0, 4 Zone 1) who were denied open arch reconstruction. Patients were predominantly female (n=8; 80%) and the mean age was 72.8 ± 5.5 years. TEVAR was performed in 5 asymptomatic patients, urgently in 3 symptomatic patients, and emergently in 2 ruptured patients. TEVAR plus extra-anatomic bypass was performed in 4 patients. Another 4 patients also received parallel stent-grafting while 1 patient received a branched thoracic endograft and yet another an in-situ laser fenestration followed by branch stent grafting. Within the 30-day postoperative period, 1 patient experienced stroke and 1 patient died. Bypass and branch vessel patency were 100% through the duration of follow-up (mean 19.3 months). Mean total technical cost associated with all procedures or repair stages was $105,164 ± $59,338 while mean net technical margin was -$25,055 ± $18,746. The net technical margin was negative for 9 patients. Endovascular repair of the proximal aortic arch is associated with good mid-term outcomes in patients considered too high-risk for open repair. However, reimbursement does not adequately cover treatment cost, with net technical margins being negative in nearly all cases. To remain financially sustainable, efforts should be made to both optimize aortic arch TEVAR delivery as well as advocate for reimbursement commensurate with associated costs.

Editor's Choice – Pre-Operative Moderate to Severe Chronic Kidney Disease is Associated with Worse Short-Term and Mid-Term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Fenestrated-Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair

To review experience of fenestrated-branched endovascular aortic repair (F-BEVAR) for pararenal/thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms (PRAA/TAAA) and to assess the association between pre-operative moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) and post-operative outcomes.All consecutive patients undergoing (elective and non-elective) F-BEVAR at a single centre (1 January 2011 - 1 July 2019) were identified. Renal function was calculated as the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula. Accordingly, presence of moderate to severe CKD was defined as eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m2.Overall, 202 consecutive patients (mean age 72 ± 8 years; 25% women) underwent F-BEVAR for the treatment of PRAA/TAAA during the study period. Of these, 51 had a history of moderate to severe CKD (none on chronic haemodialysis). No statistically significant differences were found in demographics and major comorbidities between patients with or without a history of CKD. The overall peri-operative mortality rate was 2%, without statistically significant differences between study groups (p = .26). Patients with prior CKD had statistically significantly higher rates of acute kidney injury (AKI) (37% vs. 12%, p < .001). At three years, overall survival was statistically significantly lower in patients with history of CKD compared with those without pre-operative CKD (57% vs. 82%, p = .010). Similarly, freedom from renal function decline at three years was statistically significantly poorer in patients with prior history of CKD compared with those without pre-operative CKD (43% vs. 80%, p = .020). In a multivariable analysis CKD was independently associated with higher odds of peri-operative AKI (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.9 - 5.8, p = .030), renal function decline (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.7 - 9.2, p = .003), and all cause mortality (HR 3.2, 95% CI 1.2 - 8.6, p = .020).Despite low peri-operative mortality rates that are comparable to patients with unimpaired renal function, occurrence of AKI was statistically significantly higher in subjects with pre-existing moderate to severe CKD. History of CKD was independently associated to renal function decline and poorer midterm survival.

Impact of the Pre-Transplant Circulatory Supportive Strategy on Post-Transplant Outcome: Double Bridge May Work.

Background: The number of waitlisted patients requiring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) as a bridge to heart transplantation is increasing. The data concerning the results of the double-bridge strategy are limited. We sought to investigate the post-transplant outcomes across the different bridge strategies. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a heart transplantation database from Jan 2009 to Jan 2019. Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and ventricular assist devices (VAD) were the MCS that we investigated. The pre- and post-transplant characteristics and variables of patients bridged with the different types of MCS were collected. The post-transplant survival was compared using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Results: A total of 251 heart transplants were reviewed; 115 without MCS and 136 with MCS. The patients were divided to five groups: Group 1 (no MCS): n = 115; Group 2 (IABP): n = 15; Group 3 (ECMO): n = 33; Group 4 (ECMO-VAD): double-bridge (n = 59); Group 5 (VAD): n = 29. Survival analysis demonstrated that the 3-year post-transplant survival rates were significantly different among the groups (Log-rank p < 0.001). There was no difference in survival between group 4(ECMO-VAD) and group 1(no MCS)1 (p = 0.136), or between group 4(ECMO-VAD) and group 5(VAD) (p = 0.994). Group 3(ECMO) had significantly inferior 3-year survival than group 4(ECMO-VAD) and group 5(VAD). Conclusion: Double bridge may not lead to worse mid-term results in patients who could receive a transplantation. Initial stabilization with ECMO for critical patients before implantation of VAD might be considered as a strategy for obtaining an optimal post-transplant outcome.

Hydroxyapatite-coated cementless total hip arthroplasty for patients undergoing dialysis: a study of 30 hips with a minimum follow-up period of 5\u2009years

BackgroundThe number of total hip arthroplasties (THAs) performed for patients undergoing dialysis is increasing. However, there are few reports of cementless THA for patients undergoing dialysis. This study investigated the mid-term to long-term results of hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated cementless THA for dialysis patients.MethodsThis single-center, retrospective study enrolled dialysis patients undergoing primary HA-coated cementless THA. A total of 24 patients (30 hips) were included in the final analyses. The Harris hip score and radiographic results were assessed preoperatively and during the final follow-up examination. Postoperative complications and mortality rates were recorded. The mean follow-up period was 109 months (range, 60–216 months).ResultsThe total Harris hip score significantly improved from 40 to 84 points. The overall cumulative survival rates with revision as the endpoint were 100% at 5 years and 90.4% at both 10 and 15 years. Stress shielding was observed in 24 hips (80%). No deaths were related to the primary THA. Complications included periprosthetic fracture for one patient (3.3%), blood transfusion for nine patients (30%), shunt blockage for two patients (6.7%), deep infection for one patient (3.3%), and dislocation for two patients (6.7%).ConclusionsHA-coated cementless THA resulted in good mid-term outcomes for patients undergoing dialysis with no mortality risk. However, the procedure involved a relatively high perioperative risk of blood transfusion.

Propensity matched analysis of minimally invasive versus conventional isolated aortic valve replacement.

To analyse the early and mid-term outcome of patients undergoing conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR) versus minimally invasive via hemi-sternotomy aortic valve replacement (MIAVR). A single centre retrospective study involving 653 patients who underwent isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) either via conventional AVR (n = 516) or MIAVR (n = 137) between August 2015 and March 2020. Using pre-operative characteristics, patients were propensity matched (PM) to produce 114 matched pairs. Assessment of peri-operative outcomes, early and mid-term survival and echocardiographic parameters was performed. The mean age of the PM conventional AVR group was 71.5 (±8.9) years and the number of male (n = 57) and female (n = 57) patients were equal. PM MIAVR group mean age was 71.1 (±9.5) years, and 47% of patients were female (n = 54) and 53% male (n = 60). Median follow-up for PM conventional AVR and MIAVR patients was 3.4 years (minimum 0, maximum 4.8 years) and 3.4 years (minimum 0, maximum 4.8 years), respectively. Larger sized aortic valve prostheses were inserted in the MIAVR group (median 23, IQR = 4) versus conventional AVR group (median 21, IQR = 2; p = 0.02, SMD = 0.34). Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was longer with MIAVR (94.4 ± 19.5 minutes) compared to conventional AVR (83.1 ± 33.3; p = 0.0001, SMD = 0.41). Aortic cross-clamp (AoX) time was also longer in MIAVR (71.6 ± 16.5 minutes) compared to conventional AVR (65.0 ± 52.8; p = 0.0001, SMD = 0.17). There were no differences in the early post-operative complications and mortality between the two groups. Follow-up echocardiographic data showed significant difference in mean aortic valve gradients between conventional AVR and MIAVR groups (17.3 ± 8.2 mmHg vs 13.0 ± 5.1 mmHg, respectively; p = 0.01, SMD = -0.65). There was no significant difference between conventional AVR and MIAVR in mid-term survival at 3 years (88.6% vs 92.1%; log-rank test p = 0.31). Despite the longer CPB and AoX times in the MIAVR group, there was no significant difference in early complications, mortality and mid-term survival between MIAVR and conventional AVR.

Carotid artery stenting in patients with chronic internal carotid artery occlusion.

The risk of ischemic stroke in patients with chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) on best medical treatment has been estimated to be 5.5% per year. The purpose of this study was to assess early and mid-term outcome of patients who underwent an attempt at transfemoral carotid artery stenting (CAS) for CTO of the ICA. Clinical data of symptomatic patients who underwent attempt at CAS for CTO of the ICA between January 1, 2010 and July 1, 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical success, perioperative and mid-term stroke and death rates were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used. There were 27 patients, 14 females, 13 males, with a mean age of 66.8 years, range: 57 to 79. All patients had symptoms within 6 months prior to the procedure. 16 had ipsilateral stroke at a mean of 2.8 months, ranges: 1.5-4 months, two had transient ischemic attack (TIA), at 1 week and at 6 months, one had amaurosis fugax at one week, two had chronic ocular ischemia and six had chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Technical success was 52% (14/27). One patient developed a minor reversible stroke (1/27, 3.7%) there was no early death, for an overall 30-day stroke and death rate of 3.7% (1/27). Two patients had perioperative TIAs. Among 14 patients with successful CAS (group A) one had minor, reversible ipsilateral stroke during a follow-up of 29 months (range: 4-112), two had contralateral stroke. There was no death. One patient developed asymptomatic stent occlusion, three had asymptomatic in-stent restenosis >50%, two had reinterventions. Among patients with unsuccessful attempt at CAS (group B), 31% (4/13) had stroke at 4, 10, 14 and 22 months, respectively. One stroke patient died at 10 months. Transfemoral CAS of symptomatic patients with CTO of the ICA was feasible in half of the patients, with no mortality or major stroke, for an overall early stroke/death rate of 3.7%. Since one third of the patients with unsuccessful stenting developed stroke during follow-up, further studies to investigate the safety, efficacy and durability of CAS for CTO of the ICA are needed.

Impact of Initial Thrombocytopenia on Short and Midterm Outcomes in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Abstract Background: Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS) patients with thrombocytopenia are challenging in their management as they carry high bleeding and thrombotic risks. Aim of Study: In this study we aimed to assess the impact of thrombocytopenia on ACS patients. Patients and Methods: We collected data of 608 ACS patients who presented to our hospital during the year 2017. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence of initial thrombocytopenia: Group 1 with initial thrombocy-topenia (n=123) and group 2 without initial thrombocytopenia (n=485). Platelet count less than or equal 150.000/ml was used to define thrombocytopenia. Endpoints were in-hospital and 6 months Major Adverse Cardiovascular and Cerebrov-ascular Events (MACCE). Results: Group 1 patients were significantly older and, more likely with a history of acute coronary syndrome (38.2% versus 26.7%, p=0.049), and more likely to present as non ST elevation myocardial infarction (39% versus 26.7%, p=0.037). In hospital outcome showed significantly higher risk of cumulative MACCE in group 1 patients (12.2% versus 2.3%, p=0.002) and a similar result was found after at least 6 months follow-up (19.3% versus 9.6%, p=0.041). Both groups had similar incidence of bleeding and heart failure. Group 1 patients had significantly higher incidence of in hospital MACCE (p=0.038), but this was not significant after 6 months follow-up. Conclusions: ACS patients with mild thrombocytopenia had similar bleeding risk in comparison to patients with normal count during the hospital stay and after 6 months of follow-up, higher risk of in hospital MACCE and so they should be managed as patients with normal platelet counts.

PD22-06 A MODIFIED APPROACH TO MEDIUM-LENGTH OBLITERATIVE BULBAR STRICTURES: TECHNIQUE AND OUTCOMES OF THE MUCOMUCOSAL ANASTOMOTIC NON-TRANSECTING AUGMENTATION (MANTA) URETHROPLASTY

You have accessJournal of UrologyTrauma/Reconstruction/Diversion: Urethral Reconstruction (including Stricture, Diverticulum) II (PD22)1 Sep 2021PD22-06 A MODIFIED APPROACH TO MEDIUM-LENGTH OBLITERATIVE BULBAR STRICTURES: TECHNIQUE AND OUTCOMES OF THE MUCOMUCOSAL ANASTOMOTIC NON-TRANSECTING AUGMENTATION (MANTA) URETHROPLASTY Phillip Marks, Roland Dahlem, Maryam Khonsari, Lennart Kühnke, Frederik König, Margit Fisch, and Malte W. Vetterlein Phillip MarksPhillip Marks More articles by this author , Roland DahlemRoland Dahlem More articles by this author , Maryam KhonsariMaryam Khonsari More articles by this author , Lennart KühnkeLennart Kühnke More articles by this author , Frederik KönigFrederik König More articles by this author , Margit FischMargit Fisch More articles by this author , and Malte W. VetterleinMalte W. Vetterlein More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002011.06AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: For short and obliterative bulbar strictures, non-transecting excision and primary anastomosis (EPA) has come of age to avoid disrupting spongiosal blood flow. Longer obliterative strictures may be treated by a combined "double" ventral + dorsal graft (Palminteri et al. 2008) or an augmented anastomotic approach, which was recently refined by a non-transecting technique combining EPA and a dorsal graft (Welk et al. 2012; Bugeja et al. 2016). We here present the initial experience with our ventral modification of this technique, the mucomucosal anastomotic non-transecting augmentation (MANTA) urethroplasty. METHODS: We included patients with an obliterative bulbar segment (≤2 cm) and mild to moderate spongiofibrosis undergoing MANTA between 2016-2019. The stricture is approached by ventral stricturotomy to avoid extensive urethral dissection and mobilization from the corpora cavernosa. Dorsally, the scar is superficially excised and the spongiosum is left intact. Dorsal mucomucosal anastomosis (excluding sponge tissue) is performed, which is complemented by a ventral onlay buccal mucosal graft. Perioperative characteristics were prospectively collected including uroflowmetry data and validated PROMs (6-item LUTS score of the USS PROM). We evaluated the postoperative improvement of objective (uroflowmetry at three weeks postoperatively) and functional follow-up, which incorporated patient-reported parameters (LUTS score) and functional success, whereas recurrence was defined as the symptomatic need of any re-intervention. RESULTS: Median age in 54 men undergoing MANTA was 51 yr, 83% and 26% had a history of ≥1 urethrotomy and urethroplasty, respectively. Stricture location was bulbar in 70% and penobulbar in 30%. Median operative time and graft length was 55 min and 4 cm, respectively. In 35 patients with measurable uroflowmetry data, median Qmax significantly improved (7.7 ml/s preoperatively to 31 ml/s three weeks postoperatively; p<0.001). Cross-sectional functional follow-up was performed at a median of 40 mo (range 5-57) postoperatively and was available in 50/54 patients (93% response rate). Preoperative median 6-item LUTS score was 12 (IQR 8–14) and improved significantly after surgery to a postoperative median of 1 (IQR 0-3; p<0.001). Overall success was 93% with 4/54 patients suffering from functional stricture recurrence and the need of a re-intervention. CONCLUSIONS: MANTA urethroplasty using a ventral onlay provides excellent mid-term results in patients with bulbar strictures with an obliterative segment ≤2 cm and adds to the surgical armamentarium of non-transecting techniques by minimizing extensive mobilization. Source of Funding: n/a © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e382-e382 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Phillip Marks More articles by this author Roland Dahlem More articles by this author Maryam Khonsari More articles by this author Lennart Kühnke More articles by this author Frederik König More articles by this author Margit Fisch More articles by this author Malte W. Vetterlein More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

Early and Mid-term Results of Mitral Valve Repair in Patients with Degenerative Mitral Regurgitation

Objectives: In this study, we present the mid-term results of patients who underwent valve repair due to degenerative mitral valve regurgitation in the first five years of our mitral valve repair program. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study, all patients who were operated for degenerative mitral regurgitation by a single surgical team between 2013 and 2017 were investigated. We determined early and mid-term cumulative survival rates, repair failure and freedom from reoperation. In addition, as a specific subgroup, the results of patients under 18 years of age after mitral valve repair were investigated Results: Mitral repair was performed in 121 of 153 degenerative mitral regurgitation patients during the study period. The overall repair rate was 79%. Mitral valve repair rate increased significantly over years. The Median follow-up time was 63 (range 10-92) months. Early mortality was 2.5% (n=3 patients). During the follow-up period, moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation was observed in 14 (11.8%) patients, mitral valve reoperation was required in 7 (5.9%) patients. Valve repair was performed in 4 of 7 patients under the age of 18. There was no pediatric case requiring reoperation during the follow-up period (median 46 months). Conclusion: Mid-term results of mitral valve repair in degenerative mitral valve patients are satisfactory. The success rate of repair increases in line with surgical experience.

Short- and Mid-Term Outcomes in Patients Deemed Inoperable Undergoing Transapical and Transfemoral TAVR with an STS-PROM below Four Percent.

Transapical (TA) TAVR is known to be associated with increased mortality and vascular complications compared with transfemoral (TF) TAVR in high-risk and inoperable patients. However, safe alternative access methods remain crucial. We aimed to (1) evaluate the 30-day and 1-year outcomes comparing TA and TF TAVR in patients with an STS-PROM of <4% deemed inoperable and (2) determine dependent and independent predictors for all-cause one-year mortality. Data were collected from a single-center registry consisting of 340 eligible patients. One-to-one propensity score matching was performed (n = 50 TA, n = 50 TF). Primary endpoints were all-cause mortality, stroke, and major bleeding. Predictors for all-cause one-year mortality were evaluated. Thirty-day mortality (TF vs. TA: 0.0% vs. 4.0%; p = 0.153) was comparable in both cohorts. One-year all-cause mortality was twice as high in TA patients (TF vs. TA: 10.0% vs. 20.0%, p logrank = 0.165, HR 2.10). Cerebrovascular events and major bleeding during one-year follow-up were similar. The multivariate analysis identified hemoglobin <12 g/dL at admission and dual antiplatelet therapy as strong predictors for one-year mortality. Although femoral access is the primary access with favorable 30-day and 1-year results, transapical access was successful for patients unsuitable for TF TAVR, showing acceptable short- and mid-term results in inoperable patients with low-risk profiles.

Funnel technique for wide infrarenal aneurysm neck with Lifetech Ankura™ Stent Graft System.

Background In this study, we present our mid-term results in patients undergoing treatment with the funnel technique and describe technical issues for this bailout technique in extra-wide infrarenal necks. Methods Between January 2018 and June 2020, a total of seven male, symptomatic patients (median: 74.5 years; range, 64 to 84 years) who had comorbidities and were in the American Society for Anesthesiologists Class IV and treated by the funnel technique in an endovascular fashion were included. Pre- and post-procedural data of the patients, early mortality and technical success rates were evaluated. Results There was no early mortality. Technical success rate was 100%. There was no type I or III endoleaks at the completion angiography. All patients were discharged without any problem on the second or third day of the procedure. The median follow-up was 13 (range, 6 to 28) months. The aneurysm sac shrinkage was achieved in all patients over six months of follow up. During the follow-up period, no proximal endoleak or infrarenal aortic neck diameter enlargement was found. Conclusion Based on our limited experience, the funnel technique may be considered more than a bailout procedure under special circumstances.

Right bundle branch block is not associated with worse short- and mid-term outcome after transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

BackgroundTranscatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is the standard treatment option for patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) at intermediate or high surgical risk. Preexisting right bundle branch block (RBBB) is a strong predictor of new pacemaker implantation (PPM) after TAVI, and previous data indicate a worse short- and long-term outcome of patients. The aim of this study was to investigate whether preexisting RBBB has an effect on the short- and mid-term outcome of patients undergoing TAVI in a German high-volume TAVI center.MethodsFor the present retrospective analysis, a total of 1,891 patients with native severe AS with successful TAVI without preexisting PPM were included. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality after 30 days and 12 months. Baseline RBBB was present in 190 (10.1%) of cases.ResultsPatients with preexisting RBBB had a considerably higher rate of new PPM after TAVI compared with patients without RBBB (87/190 [45.8%] vs. 219/1,701 [12.9%]; p<0.001). RBBB had no impact on all-cause mortality at 30 days (2.1% vs. 2.7%; p = 0.625) and at 12 months (14.4% vs. 13.6%; p = 0.765). Further stratification according to the presence of new PPM showed a difference in mid-term survival rates between the four groups, with the worst outcome for patients without RBBB and new PPM (log rank p = 0.024). However, no difference in mid-term cardiovascular survival was found.ConclusionPreexisting RBBB is a common finding in patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI and is associated with considerably higher PPM rates but not with worse short- and mid-term outcome.

Nerve Transfers for Restoration of Elbow Flexion in Patients With Acute Flaccid Myelitis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate short- to midterm outcomes of patients with acute flaccid myelitis who underwent nerve transfers for restoration of elbow flexion. Patients with a minimum of 10 months of follow up after undergoing nerve transfers to restore elbow flexion were clinically assessed using the Active Movement Scale (AMS). They were evaluated for any postoperative complications, particularly weakness in the distribution of the donor nerve(s). Fifteen of 25 consecutive patients who were treated using this surgical technique were included in the final analysis. All patients exhibited poor elbow flexion preoperatively (AMS 0 to 3). At a mean follow up of 17.3 months, 80% (15/25) of patients achieved excellent elbow flexion (AMS 6 or 7); 9 of these 15 had full active range of motion. Two patients achieved good elbow flexion (AMS 5) with antigravity movement to less than 50% of the passive range of motion. No cases of superficial or deep infection were reported, and all patients maintained identical motor function, relative to preoperative status, of the muscles innervated by the donor nerves. Nerve transfer surgery has shown promising short- to midterm results for recovery of nerve and muscle function, particularly for the restoration of elbow flexion. We recommend this treatment option for patients not demonstrating clinical improvement after 6 to 9 months of incomplete recovery. Therapeutic IV.

Effect of Aortic Valve Type on Patients Who Undergo Type A Aortic Dissection Repair

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is common in the setting of type A aortic dissection (TAAD) repair. Here, we evaluated the association between prosthesis choice and patient outcomes in an international patient cohort. We reviewed data from the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection (IRAD) interventional cohort to examine the relationship between valve choice and short- and mid-term patient outcomes. Between January 1996 and March 2016, 1290 surgically treated patients with TAAD were entered into the IRAD interventional cohort. Of those, 364 patients undergoing TAAD repair underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR; mean age, 57 years). The mechanical valve cohort consisted of 189 patients, of which 151 (79.9%) had a root replacement. The nonmechanical valve cohort consisted of 5 patients who received homografts and 160 patients who received a biologic AVR, with a total of 118 (71.5%) patients who underwent root replacements. The mean follow-up time was 2.92 ± 1.75 years overall (2.46 ± 1.69 years for the mechanical valve cohort and 3.48 ± 1.8 years for the nonmechanical valve cohort). After propensity matching, Kaplan-Meier estimates of 4-year survival rates after surgery were 64.8% in the mechanical valve group compared with 74.7% in the nonmechanical valve group (p = 0.921). A stratified Cox model for 4-year mortality showed no difference in hazard between valve types after adjusting for the propensity score (p = 0.854). A biologic valve is a reasonable option in patients with TAAD who require AVR. Although this option avoids the potential risks of anticoagulation, long-term follow up is necessary to assess the effect of reoperations or transcatheter interventions for structural valve degeneration.

Posterior vertebral column resection as a safe procedure leading to solid bone fusion in metastatic epidural spinal cord compression

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death and greatly decreases a patient's quality of life. Vertebral metastases often lead to epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) requiring surgical therapy. It has previously been shown that in patients with metastatic ESCC (MESCC), a surgical intervention leads to an improved outcome. Although the treatment paradigms in spinal metastases have changed and separation surgery followed by stereotactic radiosurgery is considered the best strategy, there are still cases in which 360° decompression with stabilization is indicated. In these patients, a proper bone fusion should be the treatment goal to guarantee good clinical results in extended survival times through progressions in oncological therapies. The aim of this study was to examine the safety and feasibility of posterior vertebral column resection (pVCR) in everyday clinical practice, achievement of bone fusion, and midterm outcome in patients with MESCC. All patients treated with pVCR due to MESCC between 2013 and 2020 were enrolled in this observational single-center study. Demographics, outcome parameters, numeric rating scale (NRS) score, Frankel grade, and Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score were evaluated. Radiological images routinely acquired during follow-up were reviewed and screened for the presence of bone fusion. Sixty-six patients were treated by eight surgeons. The mean follow-up period was 549 ± 739 days. At baseline, the average age was 64.4 ± 10.9 years. Reported NRS scores (preoperative 6.2 ± 1.7 vs postoperative 3.4 ± 1.6) and segmental kyphosis as measured on sagittal CT images (preoperative 13.5° ± 8.6° vs postoperative 3.8° ± 5.4°) decreased significantly (p < 0.001). In only 2 patients (3%), the Frankel grade worsened postoperatively, whereas in 12 patients (18.2%) an improvement was documented. The KPS score remained constant during the observation period (preoperative 73.2% ± 18.2% vs 78.3% ± 18% at last follow-up). Bone fusion was observed in 26 patients (86.7%) receiving CT more than 100 days after the index surgery. pVCR is a reliable surgical technique in daily clinical practice, which proves to be beneficial in terms of short- as well as midterm outcome, as judged by the KPS and NRS. The overall improvement in the Frankel grade shows patient safety. A bone fusion was observed regularly in oncological patients undergoing pVCR. The authors therefore conclude that pVCR is a safe, fast, and efficient strategy to achieve stability and pain relief by achievement of bone fusion in cancer patients.

Constrained liners revisited: favourable mid-term results in patients with high-risk of dislocation: technical considerations for the optimal outcome.

The outcomes of constrained liners (CLs) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) remain inconclusive. We evaluated the mid-term performance of CLs in a consecutive series of high-risk dislocation patients undergoing primary or revision THA performed by a single surgeon. The survival, dislocation rate, complications, and functional patients' scores were assessed. Surgical tips to enhance outcomes were reviewed. 45 patients who received the Trident Tripolar CL between 2010 to 2019 were retrospectively evaluated from Arthroplasty Registry Thessaloniki. There were 17 primary and 28 revision THAs. The primary indications for using CL were severe abductor insufficiency or comorbidities, increasing the dislocation risk in primary, and recurrent dislocation or abductor insufficiency in revision THAs. The mean patient's age was 68.5 (±14.5) years, and the mean follow-up 3.81 (±1.66) years. There were 2 dislocations and 1 deep infection in the revision group. For any reason, the cumulative 6-year survival rate was 93.3%, 100% for primary, and 89.3% for revision THAs. The mean overall CL survival was 76.3 months for any reason (95% CI, 68.1-84.5) and 80.5 months for dislocation (95% CI, 75.8-85.2). The mean postoperative functional scores were significantly improved (p < 0.001) at the latest follow-up. CLs can provide hip stability and durable fixation in selected low-demand patients with high-risk for dislocation after primary and revision THA at mid-term follow-up. Careful patient selection and the refined surgical technique aiming at the neutral liner position and considering the high CLs' offset relative to stem-neck impingement are necessary to maximise outcomes.

Evaluation of Postoperative Mid-term Outcomes of Patients with Mitral Annular Calcification Undergoing Mitral Valve Replacement

Evaluation of Postoperative Mid-term Outcomes of Patients with Mitral Annular Calcification Undergoing Mitral Valve Replacement

Effects of peak time of myocardial injury biomarkers on mid-term outcomes of patients undergoing OPCABG

BackgroundWith the development of cardiac surgery techniques, myocardial injury is gradually reduced, but cannot be completely avoided. Myocardial injury biomarkers (MIBs) can quickly and specifically reflect the degree of myocardial injury. Due to various reasons, there is no consensus on the specific values of MIBs in evaluating postoperative prognosis. This retrospective study was aimed to investigate the impact of MIBs on the mid-term prognosis of patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG).MethodsTotally 564 patients undergoing OPCABG with normal courses were included. Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) were assessed within 48 h before operation and at 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h after operation. Patients were grouped by peak values and peak time courses of MIBs. The profile of MIBs and clinical variables as well as their correlations with mid-term prognosis were analyzed by univariable and multivariable Cox regression models.ResultContinuous assessment showed that MIBs increased first (12 h after surgery) and then decreased. The peak cTnT and peak CK-MB occurred within 24 h after operation in 76.8% and 67.7% of the patients respectively. No significant correlation was found between CK-MB and mid-term mortality. Delayed cTnT peak (peak cTnT elevated after 24 h after operation) was correlated with lower creatinine clearance rate (69.36 ± 21.67 vs. 82.18 ± 25.17 ml/min/1.73 m2), body mass index (24.35 ± 2.58 vs. 25.27 ± 3.26 kg/m2), less arterial grafts (1.24 ± 0.77 vs. 1.45 ± 0.86), higher EuroSCORE II (2.22 ± 1.12 vs.1.72 ± 0.91) and mid-term mortality (26.5 vs.7.9%). Age (HR: 1.067, CI: 1.006–1.133), left ventricular ejection fraction (HR: 0.950, CI: 0.910–0.993), New York Heart Association score (HR: 1.839, CI: 1.159–2.917), total venous grafting (HR: 2.833, CI: 1.054–7.614) and cTnT peak occurrence within 24 h (HR: 0.362, CI: 0.196–0.668) were independent predictors of mid-term mortality.ConclusioncTnT is a better indicator than CK-MB. The peak value and peak occurrence of cTnT are related to mid-term mortality in patients undergoing OPCABG, and the peak phases have stronger predictive ability. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000033850. Registered 14 June 2020, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=55162&htm=4.

Impact of Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation on the Mid-Term Outcomes of Patients After Acute Myocardial Infarction Treated With Current Acute-Phase Management and Optimal Medical Therapy

Early reported beneficial effects of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) have recently been disputed. The present study aimed to investigate the clinical impact of CR on the mid-term outcomes of patients following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with currently available management. This study reviewed 145 consecutive patients who underwent primary coronary intervention and were discharged without any disability after STEMI during 2013-2015. Among the patients, 66 (45.5%) completed an outpatient CR program (CR group) and 79 were their non-CR counterparts or patients who dropped out of the program (N-D group). There were no between-group differences in patient demographics and clinical profiles, including door-to-balloon times and prescriptions. A total of 27 patients developed major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) during follow-up. The MACCE-free survival rates were 88% and 76% in the CR and N-D groups, respectively (log-rank, p=0.04). Cox proportional analysis demonstrated that inclusion in the N-D group was a significant predictor of MACCEs (HR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.07-5.74; p=0.03). In the CR group, peak oxygen consumption and ventilatory efficiency determined by cardiopulmonary exercise testing significantly improved after the program (p<0.01). The impact of CR on the mid-term prognosis of patients with STEMI, even in the current myocardial infarction management era, was beneficial.