Repeat Endovascular Intervention Research Articles

Intraoperative Pedal Pressure Changes Offers Another Quantitative Assessment for Revascularization

IntroductionLower extremity angiography is one of the most prevalent vascular procedures performed, generally via the contralateral common femoral artery. The use of retrograde pedal artery access to perform angiography has long been reserved as a “bail-out” technique to help cross chronic total occlusions that were not amenable from an antegrade approach. Recently, there has been reports and discussion involving increased utilization of pedal access for primary revascularization. The purpose of this study is to describe the outcomes of pedal access as a primary approach and to propose a novel evaluation of distal perfusion changes associated with interventions using direct pressure measurements. MethodsA retrospective observational study evaluating all patients who underwent lower extremity angiography via retrograde pedal access between December 1st 2020 and June 30th 2021 within a single healthcare system spanning 3 hospitals was performed. Demographics, comorbidities, procedural indications, and details were all recorded. Hemodynamic measurements were obtained and recorded upon initial pedal access and post intervention with a pressure transducer connected directly to the access sheath. Outcomes were analyzed with a paired t-test. ResultsTwenty-eight angiograms using primary pedal access for endovascular intervention were performed during the study period. Most patients were African American (75%) females (57.1%) with hypertension (89.3%), hyperlipidemia (78.6%), diabetes (85.7%), coronary artery disease (64.3%), and current tobacco user (57.1%). The most prevalent indication for angiography was nonhealing wounds (67.9%). Pedal access was mostly achieved via the anterior tibial artery (79%). Sixty-three vessels were treated during the 28 angiograms (averaging 2.3 vessels per angiogram), most commonly the superficial femoral (27%), anterior tibial (25%), and popliteal (22%) arteries. Balloon angioplasty with or without stenting (98.5%) was predominately performed with an overall technical success rate of 94%. The mean pre- and post-intervention pressures were 36.5mmHg (standard deviation 25.7) and 83.4mmHg (standard deviation 19.5), respectively. The mean change in pressure after intervention was 46.9mmHg (standard deviation 23.3) (Table 3). There was a statistically significant difference detected between pre-intervention and post-intervention pressure (p<0.00) (Figure 1). There were no major amputations or adverse cardiovascular events at a mean first follow-up duration of 89 days. Six of the total 28 patients (21.4%) underwent repeat endovascular intervention on the ipsilateral extremity within a median of 45 (IQR 22.5-62.3) days. ConclusionPrimary pedal access is a viable option for performing lower extremity angiographic interventions. A significant increase in pedal artery pressure can be observed after angiographic intervention from retrograde pedal artery access. Further studies are necessary to define the clinical prognostic importance of these findings in relation to wound healing rates.

One-year Outcomes Among Patients Undergoing Tibial Endovascular Reinterventions for Recurrent Critical Limb Ischemia

Angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy for tibial occlusive disease are commonly performed among critical limb ischemia patients, but restenosis and occlusion significantly hinder long-term durability. For patients requiring reintervention for recurrent tibial occlusive disease, the impact on clinical benefit and patency equivalence is unclear. We compared 1-year outcomes following repeat tibial endovascular intervention(s) to the first (primary) tibial endovascular intervention. Procedural and long-term data from the Vascular Quality Initiative database were queried for patients with critical limb ischemia (Rutherford Class 4-6) undergoing endovascular intervention for isolated tibial occlusive disease (2010-2020). Outcomes included 1-year change from baseline in ambulatory status, functional status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group), disposition, minor amputation, and major adverse outcomes (death, below-knee amputation, above-knee amputation). Statistically significant and clinically relevant variables were included in multivariate logistic regression. We included 1871 patients underwent primary isolated tibial endovascular intervention for critical limb ischemia. Of those, 433 (23.1%) patients underwent tibial endovascular reintervention for recurrent disease (tissue loss 35.0%). 81.6% and 14.5% of patients underwent angioplasty and atherectomy, respectively, for primary intervention. Patients requiring repeat intervention(s) had significantly decreased clinical improvement after primary intervention (67.4% vs 77.9%; P < .001) and repeat intervention (67.8% vs 77.9%; P < .001) compared to patients with no reintervention (Table). Among the three groups, a minority of patients achieved improvement in functional status (22.2% vs 20.7% vs 21.9%; P = .84) and ambulatory status at 1-year (20.0% vs 18.6% vs 17.1%; P = .54). Approximately 50% of patients were fully ambulatory at 1 year (Table). After multivariate adjustment, patients with reintervention were 50% less likely to have a patent target vessel at 1-year after primary endovascular treatment vs patients having no reintervention (odds ratio [OR], 0.50; 95% CI, 0.31-0.79; P = .03). Patients with reintervention were also found to have increased risk for minor amputation compared to patients without reintervention (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.20-2.23; P = .002). Repeat interventions significantly increased risk of minor amputation at 1-year compared to primary intervention (OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.53-3.80; P < .001). There was no significant difference in death or major amputation (below or above knee) (Table). Atherectomy was associated with significant reduction in high-grade stenosis at 1 year (>50%) after primary treatment compared to angioplasty (OR, 0.097; 95% CI, 0.018-0.52; P = .006). Major adverse outcomes after repeat endovascular tibial intervention for recurrent tibial occlusive disease were similar to those after primary tibial endovascular intervention. However, patients with recurrent tibial occlusive disease requiring reintervention had decreased symptom improvement after primary and repeat treatment, decreased target lesion patency, and increased risk of minor amputation.TableOne-year outcomes following tibial endovascular intervention for critical limb ischemiaPrimary endovascular intervention (no future intervention), n = 1438Primary endovascular intervention (future reintervention), n = 433Repeat endovascular intervention (2+ interventions), n = 143P valueDeath335 (23.3)86 (19.9)39 (27.3).14Symptom improvementn = 1094n = 380n = 115 Regression72 (6.6)35 (9.2)13 (11.3)<.001 No change170 (15.5)89 (23.4)24 (20.9) Improvement852 (77.9)256 (67.4)78 (67.8)Patency (patent)755/827 (91.3)259/298 (86.9)77/89 (86.5).05>50% Stenosis27/160 (16.9)14/75 (18.7)2/20 (10.0).66Functional status changen = 517n = 198n = 64.87 Regression173 (33.5)72 (36.4)25 (39.1) No change229 (44.3)85 (42.9)25 (39.1) Improvement115 (22.2)41 (20.7)14 (21.9)Ambulation status (ambulatory)565/1075 (52.6)200/377 (53.1)60/112 (53.6).69Ambulatory status changen = 1072n = 377n = 111.54 Regression303 (28.3)113 (30.0)26 (23.4) No change555 (51.8)194 (51.5)66 (59.5) Improvement214 (20.0)70 (18.6)19 (17.1)Disposition changen = 358n = 137n = 40.28 Needs advanced care206 (57.5)68 (49.6)23 (57.5) No change152 (42.5)69 (50.4)17 (42.5)Postoperative ABI1.15 ± 0.501.12 ± 0.541.09 ± 0.62.63Amputationn = 1168n = 396n = 118 All cause370 (31.7)152 (38.4)56 (47.5)<.001 Below knee173 (14.8)58 (14.6)15 (12.7).83 Above knee44 (3.8)16 (4.0)8 (6.8).29 Minor amputation (toe/ray/transmetatarsal)153 (16.1)78 (24.2)33 (34.7)<.001Values are number (%) or mean ± standard deviation. Open table in a new tab

Early Fevers and Elevated Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio are Associated with Repeat Endovascular Interventions for Cerebral Vasospasm in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

Patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) may develop refractory arterial cerebral vasospasm requiring multiple endovascular interventions. The aim of our study is to evaluate variables associated with need for repeat endovascular treatments in refractory vasospasm and to identify differences in outcomes following one versus multiple treatments. We retrospectively reviewed patients treated for aSAH between 2017 and 2020 at two tertiary care centers. We included patients who underwent treatment (intraarterial infusion of vasodilatory agents or mechanical angioplasty) for radiographically diagnosed vasospasm in our analysis. Patients were divided into those who underwent single treatment versus those who underwent multiple endovascular treatments for vasospasm. Of the total 418 patients with aSAH, 151 (45.9%) underwent endovascular intervention for vasospasm. Of 151 patients, 95 (62.9%) underwent a single treatment and 56 (37.1%) underwent two or more treatments. Patients were more likely to undergo multiple endovascular treatments if they had a Hunt-Hess score > 2 (odds ratio [OR] 5.10 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.82-15.84]; p = 0.003), a neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio > 8.0 (OR 3.19 [95% CI 1.40-7.62]; p = 0.028), and more than two fevers within the first 5days of admission (OR 7.03 [95% CI 2.68-20.94]; p < 0.001). Patients with multiple treatments had poorer outcomes, including increased length of stay, delayed cerebral ischemia, in-hospital complications, and higher modified Rankin scores at discharge. A Hunt-Hess score > 2, a neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio > 8.0, and early fevers may be predictive of need for multiple endovascular interventions in refractory cerebral vasospasm after aSAH. These patients have poorer functional outcomes at discharge and higher rates of in-hospital complications.

Hybrid microcatheter angioplasty for refractory cerebral vasospasm.

Cerebral vasospasm is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality associated with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Intra-arterial chemical and mechanical angioplasty, performed alone or in combination, have been shown to ameliorate cerebral vasospasm and improve patient outcomes. Few options exist for patients who fail these traditional endovascular tactics. We propose a hybrid microcatheter technique that combines the mechanical benefit of transient high pressure induced by microcatheter fluid bolus with a low-dose vasodilator infusion. Five patients with moderate to severe symptomatic vasospasm who failed medical and traditional endovascular management were treated using a hybrid microcatheter technique. All angioplasty procedures were technically successful, and the degree of vasospasm improved following angioplasty. There were no complications related to the cerebral angioplasty procedures. None of the patients required repeat endovascular intervention. Hybrid microcatheter angioplasty may be a useful complement to mechanical or pharmacological techniques in the endovascular management of intractable cerebral vasospasm after aSAH.

Evaluation of Endovascular Intervention for Tracheo-Innominate Artery Fistula: A Systematic Review

While the standard of care for suspected tracheo-innominate artery fistula (TIF) necessitates sternotomy, perioperative mortality remains high. Endovascular interventions have been attempted, but reports have been anecdotal. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the outcomes of endovascular management of TIF by pooling the existing evidence. An electronic database search of Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register was performed to identify all studies examining endovascular treatment of TIF. Patients greater than 14 years of age who underwent endovascular intervention for TIF were included. 25 studies consisting of 27 patients met the inclusion criteria. 48.1% (13/27) of patients were male and median age was 39.0 [IQR 16.0, 47.5] years. Tracheostomy was present in 96.3% (26/27) of cases. Median duration from tracheostomy to TIF presentation was 2.2 months [0.5, 42.5]. On presentation, 84.6% (22/26) had tracheal hemorrhage, and 22.8% (6/27) were hemodynamically unstable. 96.3% (26/27) underwent covered stent graft placement while 1 patient (3.8%) had coil embolization. 18.5% (5/27) of patients required repeat endovascular intervention for recurrent bleeding, while 11.1% (3/27) required rescue sternotomy. Median hospital length of stay was 30 days [16.0, 46.5], and overall mortality was 29.6% (8/27) with a median follow-up time of 5 months [1.2, 11.5]. While uncommon, endovascular treatment of TIF may be a feasible alternative to sternotomy. The approach may be useful in those who are unable to undergo surgery or are likely to have adhesions from prior chest operations.

Endovascular treatment of type 3 and 4 thoracic central vein obstruction in hemodialysis patients

ObjectiveThoracic central vein (TCV) obstruction (TCVO) in the presence of upper extremity (UE) hemodialysis access can present as superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) and cause vascular access dysfunction and failure. We report the techniques and results of endorevascularization of TCVO in hemodialysis patients, which allowed for long-term functioning vascular access in the UE. MethodsFrom June 2009 to February 2020, 45 hemodialysis patients underwent TCV endorevascularization. The indications for surgery were TCVO or SVCS that threatened the function of a preexisting upper arm access or contraindicated placement of a new upper arm access. Conventional endovascular techniques were used when feasible. Patients with unfavorable anatomy were treated using a transseptal needle to cross difficult intrathoracic stenosis and occlusions or to facilitate an inside-out central venous access technique. The reestablishment of venous outflow was accomplished with angioplasty, stenting, and/or placement of HeRO conduits. Successful revascularization was followed by hemodialysis access revision or a new UE access placement. We recorded the risk factors and procedural outcomes, patency rates, complications, and mortality. ResultsThe mean age was 53 ± 16.3 years, and 51% were women. The most common risk factors were diabetes mellitus (64.2%) and hypertension (56%). Twenty-five patients (55.5%) had symptoms of SVCS. These symptoms resolved after the TCV procedure in all cases. Crossing of the TCV lesion was successful using a conventional catheter and wire in 26 cases (57.8%) and transseptal needle in 17 cases (37.8%), including 12 using an inside-out central venous access technique. Treatment of the TCV lesion included a HeRO conduit in 20 cases (44.4%), stenting in 17 (37.7%), and transluminal balloon angioplasty alone in 7 (15.5%). Other veins were treated in 33 cases (73.3%). The overall technical success rate was 95.5%. Two intraoperative complications occurred, including one case of severe hypotension and one of fatal cardiac tamponade. Of the 16 patients with preexisting UE access, its function was preserved in all 16 (100%). In 24 of 27 patients (85.7%), new arm access was successfully created after the TCV procedure. The overall clinical success rate was 88.9%. The average follow-up was 663.4 days (median, 507 days; range, 0-2679 days). During follow-up, 26 patients had undergone 90 procedures to maintain access function, 21 had undergone repeat endovascular interventions, and 17 had undergone open procedures. Eight patients (17.8%) had developed infection, five involving HeRO conduits that required excision with loss of access. During the follow-up period, 14 patients (31%) had died of unrelated causes, and 34 patients (75.5%) maintained functional access. ConclusionsThe results of the present study have shown that endorevascularization of TCVO reconstruction is effective in maintaining function or allowing the creation of UE hemodialysis access, with acceptable complication rates.

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty alone versus stent placement for the treatment of transplant renal artery stenosis

PurposeThe purposes of this retrospective study were to assess the efficacy of endovascular techniques for the treatment of transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) by analyzing technical and clinical success and to compare the results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) alone to those of stenting. Materials and methodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 31 patients who underwent endovascular treatment for TRAS between January 2012 and December 2017. There were 23 men and 8 women with a mean age of 60.5±14 (SD) years (range: 24–81 years). Ten patients (10/31; 32%; 8 men, 2 women; median age, 63 years) were treated with PTA alone and 21/31 (68%; 15 men, 6 women; median age, 65 years) with metallic stent placement. Several variables including serum creatinine level, glomerular filtration rate, arterial blood pressure value, antihypertensive medication obtained before and after treatment were compared. Technical success was assessed for each procedure. Clinical success was defined as a 15% drop in serum creatinine level, a decrease greater than 15% in mean blood pressure values or a decrease greater than 10% in mean blood pressure values with a reduction in the number of antihypertensive drugs needed for hypertension control. ResultsTechnical success was obtained in all patients [31/31; 100%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 89–100%] and clinical success in 27/31 patients (87%; 95%CI: 71–95%). Four patients (4/31; 13%; 95%CI: 5–29%) underwent repeat endovascular intervention. Mean serum creatinine level and mean arterial blood pressure values were significantly lower after treatment (177.4 and 93.8μmol/l, respectively) compared to before treatment (319.4 and 106.7μmol/l, respectively) in the stent group but not in the group treated with PTA alone (P=0.0012 and P=0.002, respectively). ConclusionThe endovascular approach is safe and effective in the management of TRAS and stenting, depending on the morphology of the stenosis, should be the treatment of choice when possible.

A Comparison of Outcomes after Lower Extremity Bypass and Repeat Endovascular Intervention following Failed Previous Endovascular Intervention for Critical Limb Ischemia

Optimal approach for repeat revascularization after failed endovascular intervention for critical limb ischemia (CLI) is unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare Major Adverse Limb Events (MALE) and Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) between lower extremity bypass (LEB) and repeat endovascular intervention (REI) in patients with prior failed ipsilateral endovascular intervention. We hypothesize LEB has lower rates of MALE and high rates of MACE compared to REI.

Tibioperoneal Occlusive Disease: A Review of below the Knee Endovascular Therapy in Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia

Tibioperoneal occlusive disease is one of the most difficult disease processesto successfully treat. Previous studies have attempted to address the outcomes of tibial interventions in this patient population; however, the majority of these study cohorts are composed of patients who have undergone concomitant aortoiliac or femoral procedures. Our objective was to present the outcomes of patients treated with endovascular intervention for isolated below-the-knee atherosclerotic disease causing critical limb ischemia (CLI). We performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent isolated endovascular treatment of the below-knee popliteal, tibial, and/or peroneal arteries for CLI (Rutherford class 4-6). Primary outcomes include wound healing, reintervention rates, and amputation-free survival out to 5 years, as well as 1-year primary patency rates. 116 patients were identified as having undergone a tibial endovascular intervention. Ninety-two had concomitant aortoiliac or femoropopliteal interventions; after excluding those patients, we identified 24 limbs that were treated for isolated below-knee popliteal, tibial, and/or peroneal occlusive disease using an endovascular modality. 62.5% of limbs had successful wound healing, whereas 37.5% eventually required a major amputation. Mean time to amputation was 514.6days (standard error: 57.3). Of those patients with successful limb salvage (n=15), 66.7% required only the index procedure to heal; the remaining 33.3% required a repeat endovascular intervention, an arterial bypass, or a combination to successfully heal. The mean time to reintervention was 780.1days (standard error: 179.5). The 1-year primary patency rate was 52.6% (n=19). Patients with CLI secondary to isolated below-the-knee atherosclerotic occlusive disease are a difficult population to successfully treat; despite this, these patients benefit from an initial attempt at endovascular limb salvage. In our experience, this approach resulted in a respectable limb salvage rate of 62.5% and did not compromise open surgical solutions in the event of nonhealing.

Management of vascular complications following transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Vascular complications (VCs) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are frequent and their management is challenging. To report the incidence, predictors and management of VCs following percutaneous transfemoral TAVI (TF-TAVI) at a single centre. We analyzed 102 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous TF-TAVI between August 2008 and December 2013. All endpoints were evaluated at 30 days and 6 months according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria. VC percutaneous treatment success was defined as residual stenosis<30%, absence of blood extravasation and absence of surgical or repeat endovascular intervention at 30 days. Twenty-two patients (22%) experienced VCs, including five patients (5%) with major VCs. Mortality at 30 days was significantly higher in patients with major VCs than in patients without major VCs (60% vs 3%; P=0.001). Patients with VCs had more life-threatening or major bleeding (23% vs 5%; P=0.02), but no difference in terms of need for blood transfusion was observed. Endovascular treatment was used in 13 of 22 patients with VCs (59%) and was successful in 11 of these 13 patients (85%). Primary surgical repair was necessary in only 1/22 (5%) patients, for a common femoral artery pseudoaneurysm 2 weeks after the TAVI procedure. VCs following TF-TAVI are frequent. Major but not minor VCs are associated with increased mortality. Percutaneous management of VCs is feasible and safe, and surgery is rarely needed.

Initial Experience With the Absorb Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold Below the Knee

Purpose: To investigate a new bioresorbable vascular scaffold for the treatment of focal tibial and distal popliteal lesions. Methods: Tibial and distal popliteal angioplasty was performed in 15 limbs of 14 patients (9 men; median age 82 years) with critical limb ischemia (CLI, n=7) or severe claudication. The 18 lesions (mean length 22.2±14.0 mm) were implanted with 22 everolimus-eluting bioresorbable scaffolds (Absorb). Clinical and ultrasound follow-up was performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to detect restenosis and evaluate safety, midterm restenosis rate, and clinical improvement. Results: Immediate technical success was 100%, although a single limb suffered 2 scaffold thromboses on the first day; it was salvaged with repeat endovascular intervention. All patients were available for surveillance examinations during a follow-up of 6.1±3.9 months; no patient died. Of the 15 limbs in the analysis, clinical improvement was present in 12 (4 of 7 CLI patients); there was no amputation, bypass surgery, or evidence of binary restenosis on follow-up sonographic examination. Conclusion: Midterm follow-up for this small pilot sample demonstrates acceptable safety and patency results, together with freedom from all major adverse limb events, using the Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold below the knee.

The impact and outcomes of establishing an integrated interdisciplinary surgical team to care for the diabetic foot

This study aimed to quantify the impact of an integrated diabetic foot surgical service on outcomes and changes in surgical volume and focus. We abstracted registry data from 48 consecutive months at a single institution, evaluating all patients with diabetic foot complications requiring surgery or vascular intervention, and compared outcomes in the 24 months before and after integrating podiatric surgery with vascular surgical limb-salvage service. The service performed 2923 operations; 790 (27.0%) were related to treatment of diabetic foot complications in 374 patients. Of these, 502 were classified as non-vascular diabetic foot surgery and 288 were vascular interventions. Urgent surgery was significantly reduced after team implementation (77.7% vs 48.5%, p < 0.0001; OR = 3.7, 95% CI: 2.4-5.5). The high/low amputation ratio decreased from 0.35 to 0.27 due to an increase in low-level (midfoot) amputations (8.2% vs 26.1%, p < 0.0001; OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 2.0-83.3). A 45.7% reduction in below-knee amputations was realized with a stable above-knee/below-knee amputation ratio (0.73-0.81). One-third of patients required vascular intervention. Vascular reconstructions increased 44.1% following institution of the team. Initial revascularization was endovascular in 70.6% of patients. Repeat endovascular intervention or conversion to open bypass was required in 37.1% of these patients, almost double the reintervention rate of those receiving open bypass first (18.9%). Interdisciplinary diabetic foot surgery teams may significantly impact surgery type, with greater focus on proactive and preventive, rather than reactive and ablative, procedures. Although endovascular limb-sparing procedures have become increasingly applicable, open bypass remains critical to success.

Traitement par stent grafts des pathologies de l’aorte thoracique descendante

To report our experience with endovascular stent-graft repair of descending thoracic aorta diseases in high risk patients. Between 2000 and 2007, 49 high surgical risk patients (mean age: 64.6 years) underwent stent-graft placement, including 24 cases presenting acutely. Mean follow-up was 25.4 months. Etiologies included 15 aneurysms, 11 dissections, 10 penetrating ulcers, 9 false aneurysms, 2 ruptures of the aortic isthmus, 2 intramural hematomas. Access failure occurred in one patient. The overall mortality was 27.1% (n=13), nine related to the presenting pathology or treatment. Thirty-day mortality was 10.4% (n=5). Complications included vascular injury at the iliac or femoral artery access (10.2%), 1 case of flaccid paraplegia, 2 cases of transient paraparesis, 2 strokes, 2 stent migrations and 1 stent rupture. The rate of early endoleak was 39.6% while the rate of delayed endoleak was 14.6%. Seven patients (14.6%) required repeat endovascular interventions. Explantation was required in 2 cases. The latest available follow-up showed no lesion enlargement in 70.7% (n=29/41) of our patients. Descending thoracic aortic pathology can be treated using endografts in high risk patients, although significant morbidity and mortality remain. Because of the high rate of endoleaks, close follow-up is required.

Balloon Angioplasty as the Primary Treatment for Failing Infrainguinal Vein Grafts

Background: We sought to evaluate the role of balloon angioplasty as the primary modality in the management of vein graft stenoses. Methods: Patients who underwent infrainguinal vein graft bypass from January 2002 to December 2007 were enrolled into a surveillance program. Grafts which developed critical stenoses were identified and underwent urgent angiography with a view to angioplasty of the stenotic lesion. Lesions which were deemed unsuitable for angioplasty underwent urgent surgical repair. Results: Four hundred and eleven grafts were followed up for a median of 19 months (range: 2–61). Ninety-six grafts (22.6%) developed critical stenosis. Twelve grafts occluded prior to repair and one was not intervened upon electively. Eight grafts underwent primary surgical repair. Seventy-six grafts underwent 99 endovascular procedures. Technical success was achieved in 60 grafts (78.9%). Of the grafts in which technical success had not been achieved, eight underwent repeat angioplasty and three were surgically repaired. Twenty-four grafts underwent repeat angioplasty for re-stenosis with a technical success rate of 71%. No difference was observed in graft patency (P = 0.08) or amputation rates (P = 0.32) between the grafts requiring intervention to maintain patency, and grafts which did not. Smoking [OR: 2.61 (95% CI: 1.51–4.53), (P = 0.006)], diabetes [OR: 2.55 (95% CI: 1.49–4.35), (P = 0.006)], renal failure [OR: 1.89 (95% CI: 1.19–3.38), (P = 0.040)] and recurrent stenosis [OR: 3.22 (95% CI: 1.63–4.69), (P < 0.001)] were risk factors for graft occlusion. Conclusions: Balloon angioplasty of failing infrainguinal vein bypass grafts is safe and can be performed with an acceptable medium term patency rate, albeit with a significant risk of re-stenosis which can be successfully treated in most patients using repeat endovascular intervention.

Balloon Angioplasty as the Primary Treatment for Failing Infra-inguinal Vein Grafts

Background We sought to evaluate the role of balloon angioplasty as the primary modality in the management of vein graft stenoses. Methods Patients who underwent infrainguinal vein graft bypass from January 2002 to December 2007 were enrolled into a surveillance program. Grafts which developed critical stenoses were identified and underwent urgent angiography with a view to angioplasty of the stenotic lesion. Lesions which were deemed unsuitable for angioplasty underwent urgent surgical repair. Results Four hundred and eleven grafts were followed up for a median of 19 months (range: 2–61). Ninety-six grafts (22.6%) developed critical stenosis. Twelve grafts occluded prior to repair and one was not intervened upon electively. Eight grafts underwent primary surgical repair. Seventy-six grafts underwent 99 endovascular procedures. Technical success was achieved in 60 grafts (78.9%). Of the grafts in which technical success had not been achieved, eight underwent repeat angioplasty and three were surgically repaired. Twenty-four grafts underwent repeat angioplasty for re-stenosis with a technical success rate of 71%. No difference was observed in graft patency ( P = 0.08) or amputation rates ( P = 0.32) between the grafts requiring intervention to maintain patency, and grafts which did not. Smoking [OR: 2.61 (95% CI: 1.51–4.53), ( P = 0.006)], diabetes [OR: 2.55 (95% CI: 1.49–4.35), ( P = 0.006)], renal failure [OR: 1.89 (95% CI: 1.19–3.38), ( P = 0.040)] and recurrent stenosis [OR: 3.22 (95% CI: 1.63–4.69), ( P < 0.001)] were risk factors for graft occlusion. Conclusions Balloon angioplasty of failing infrainguinal vein bypass grafts is safe and can be performed with an acceptable medium term patency rate, albeit with a significant risk of re-stenosis which can be successfully treated in most patients using repeat endovascular intervention.

Endovascular Stent Placement in Patients With Hepatic Artery Stenoses or Thromboses After Liver Transplant

Hepatic artery stenosis or thrombosis following liver transplant is a potentially life-threatening complication. Successful liver transplant depends on uncompromised hepatic arterial inflow. Early diagnosis and treatment of complications prolong graft survival. Interventional radiologic techniques are frequently used to treat hepatic artery complications. Twenty patients with hepatic artery stenoses (n = 11) or thromboses (n = 9) were included in this study. Eighteen of the 20 patients were successfully treated by stent placement. In 9 patients, early endovascular interventions were performed 1 to 7 days after surgery. Two patients were operated owing to the effects of dissection and bleeding from the hepatic artery. Repeat endovascular interventions were performed 10 times in 6 patients. Follow-up ranged from 5 months to 4.5 years. Nine patients with patent hepatic arteries died during follow-up owing to reasons unrelated to the hepatic artery interventions. In 3 patients, the stents became occluded at 3, 5, and 9 months after surgery but no clinical symptoms were present.

Endovascular Treatment of In-Stent Restenosis After Carotid Artery Stenting: Immediate and Midterm Results

To evaluate the immediate and midterm outcome and analyze the debris captured after repeat endovascular intervention for the treatment of in-stent restenosis after carotid artery stenting (CAS). Thirty-one consecutive patients (27 men; mean age 63.7+/-13.0 years, range 53- 81) underwent repeat endovascular intervention (balloon angioplasty and provisional stenting) for the treatment of 32 in-stent restenoses following CAS. Procedural success was achieved in all patients. An additional stent was implanted in 10 (31%) cases. No procedural complication was observed. Filter analysis was performed in 17 (53%) procedures; on 12 (71%), macroscopically visible material was captured. The histomorphometric analysis performed on 6 (19%) filters showed fibrin nets entrapping erythrocytes, leucocytes, platelets, and in 2 cases, fibrous hypercellular tissue fragments. At 30 days and during follow-up (mean 17+/-5 months), no deaths, transient ischemic attacks, or strokes were observed. In 1 (3.1%) patient, asymptomatic recurrence of ISR was found on Doppler ultrasonography and successfully treated with balloon angioplasty. Repeat endovascular intervention using balloon angioplasty with provisional stenting and routine cerebral protection appears to be a feasible, safe, and clinically effective strategy for the treatment of in-stent restenosis after CAS.

In-stent Restenosis After Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting: A Challenge for the Vascular Surgeon

Purpose This study aims to review the incidence of in-stent restenosis (ISR), the factors which determine restenosis, and to evaluate the use of various endovascular techniques for the management of ISR following carotid artery stenting (CAS). Methods Four hundred and seven patients (334 men, mean age 63 years, range 46–86, median 65 years) were treated with CAS between December 2000 and March 2004. Three hundred and seventy-two (89%) patients had at least one ultrasound evaluation performed 6 months after procedure (range 6–40). Recurrent stenosis >80% detected with duplex ultrasound scans were further evaluated by angiography and treated with repeat endovascular procedure. Results CAS was performed successfully in all cases with a Carotid WallStent (Boston Scientific) using a cerebral protection device (filter). Perioperative complications included four (0.9%) minor and two (0.4%) major strokes these latter two patients died at 5 and 12 days after the operation. No other deaths occurred. A total of 15 carotid arteries (3.6%) in 14 patients had ISR. All ISR were treated with a repeat endovascular procedure: three balloon angioplasty alone, eight angioplasty and secondary stenting, four angioplasty with cutting balloon. Postsurgical restenosis was confirmed to be the only predictive factor for the development of in-stent restenosis (OR 14.5, 95% CI 2.3–113.4, p=0.005). Endovascular treatment of ISR achieved technical success without periprocedurale complications and the absence of significant restenosis over a median follow up time of 12.4 months (range 3.5–30.7). Conclusion Our experience with a large cohort of CAS showed an encouragingly low incidence of ISR (3.6%) and successful treatment by repeat endovascular intervention. We recommend attempting all endovascular possibilities before performing stent removal.

Infrainguinal Atherectomy Using the Transluminal Endarterectomy Catheter: Patency Rates and Clinical Success for 144 Procedures

Purpose: To determine if atherectomy using the transluminal endarterectomy catheter (TEC) is an effective endoluminal therapy for infrainguinal occlusive disease. Methods: Three surgeons used the TEC for 144 infrainguinal atherectomy procedures in 133 patients. The indications were severe claudication in 83, critical ischemia in 56, and graft stenosis in 5 limbs. The pathology was stenosis in 36 and occlusion in 105 limbs. Balloon dilation was also performed in 109 and stenting in 17 limbs. Results: There was initial technical and anatomic success in 124 (86%) procedures. There were 67 technically successful procedures at mean follow-up of 19 months, although 3 of these limbs with gangrene and extensive distal disease required major amputation. There were 26 failures due to stenosis leading to further intervention and 51 due to occlusion. Twenty of these cases were managed conservatively, 21 were treated with repeat endovascular intervention, 31 with bypass grafting, and 5 with amputation. Repeat intervention in 52 limbs resulted in 36 with patent arteries, 10that are occluded, and 6that required amputation. Thirteen of the 14 amputations were for limbs with critical ischemia, but 1 was in a patient with claudication. Life-table analysis showed that the primary patency rate was 51%, the assisted primary patency rate was 61%, and the secondary patency rate was 75% at 15 months. The clinical success rate was 49%, and the salvage rate for limbs with critical ischemia was 78% at 12 months. Univariate log-rank testing showed no significant differences according to the clinical presentation or pathology, but results were worse for lesions &gt; 5 cm long due to more frequent immediate failures. However, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that results were significantly worse for critical ischemia than for claudication, stenosis compared to occlusions, for limbs with poor runoff, for operations performed by percutaneous rather than an open approach, and for those performed more recently. Conclusions: TEC atherectomy may have a place in selected patients, but the optimal circumstances for its use and long-term efficacy require further study.

Infrainguinal atherectomy using the transluminal endarterectomy catheter: patency rates and clinical success for 144 procedures.

To determine if atherectomy using the transluminal endarterectomy catheter (TEC) is an effective endoluminal therapy for infrainguinal occlusive disease. Three surgeons used the TEC for 144 infrainguinal atherectomy procedures in 133 patients. The indications were severe claudication in 83, critical ischemia in 56, and graft stenosis in 5 limbs. The pathology was stenosis in 36 and occlusion in 105 limbs. Balloon dilation was also performed in 109 and stenting in 17 limbs. There was initial technical and anatomic success in 124 (86%) procedures. There were 67 technically successful procedures at mean follow-up of 19 months, although 3 of these limbs with gangrene and extensive distal disease required major amputation. There were 26 failures due to stenosis leading to further intervention and 51 due to occlusion. Twenty of these cases were managed conservatively, 21 were treated with repeat endovascular intervention, 31 with bypass grafting, and 5 with amputation. Repeat intervention in 52 limbs resulted in 36 with patent arteries, 10 that are occluded, and 6 that required amputation. Thirteen of the 14 amputations were for limbs with critical ischemia, but 1 was in a patient with claudication. Life-table analysis showed that the primary patency rate was 51%, the assisted primary patency rate was 61%, and the secondary patency rate was 75% at 15 months. The clinical success rate was 49%, and the salvage rate for limbs with critical ischemia was 78% at 12 months. Univariate log-rank testing showing no significant differences according to the clinical presentation of pathology, but results were worse for lesions > 5 cm long due to more frequent immediate failures. However, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that results were significantly worse for critical ischemia than for claudication, stenosis compared to occlusions, for limbs with poor runoff, for operations performed by percutaneous rather than an open approach, and for those performed more recently. TEC atherectomy may have a place in selected patients, but the optimal circumstances for its use and long-term efficacy require further study.