Risk Of Procedure-related Complications Research Articles

Abstract 13699: Comparing Patency Benefits of Pulmonary Stent Implantation and Balloon Angioplasty in Pulmonary Vein Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) may arise from various conditions and result in significant morbidity and mortality. Transcatheter approaches, including pulmonary stent implantation (PSI) and pulmonary balloon angioplasty (PBA) are associated with restenosis risks. We conducted a meta-analysis comparing PSI and PBA to understand restenosis risk and complications rate. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases from inception until May 2023. A total of 1233 studies were screened, and 11 studies were included in our analysis. Our primary outcomes of interest were the risk of restenosis requiring reintervention, 5-year freedom from restenosis, and the risk of procedure-related complications. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model and performed a meta-regression analysis. Results: We included a total of eleven observational studies in our meta-analysis, comprising 780 patients with PVS, 335 of whom underwent PBA and 445 underwent PSI. Our analysis showed that PSI was associated with a lower risk of restenosis requiring reintervention compared to PBA (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13, 0.87, P= 0.02). PSI was also associated with a significantly higher 5-year freedom from restenosis (OR 4.42, 95% CI 1.11, 17.62, P= 0.04) than PBA. There was no significant difference in the risk of procedure-related complications between PSI and PBA. Our meta-regression analysis revealed that age of patient and stent size did not significantly affect the risk of restenosis requiring intervention. Conclusions: PSI offers superior patency benefits compared to PBA for PVS. PSI was associated with a lower risk of restenosis requiring reintervention and a higher 5-year freedom from restenosis. Bases on these findings, PSI is the preferred strategy for the treatment of pulmonary vein stenosis.

Association of clinical characteristics and biomarkers with recurrent atrial fibrillation after hybrid ablation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Atrial fibrillation ablation research at our institution was supported by an unrestricted grant from AtriCure. Background Hybrid ablation is an alternative treatment for both persisting and therapy-resistant, symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), combining the strengths of endocardial catheter and epicardial surgical ablation. Although results exhibit lower rates of recurrence and higher reduction of AF burden, there is a considerable risk of procedure-related complications. Therefore, the identification of patient groups who benefit most of this procedure can help in pre-procedural selection and tailoring of optimal therapy post-ablation. Purpose This study aimed to identify clinical factors and blood biomarkers associated with recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation. Methods A total of 96 consecutive patients undergoing hybrid ablation between January 2015 and December 2018 in a tertiary care center were enrolled. Blood samples were collected pre-ablation. Seven biomarkers [Bone Morphogenetic Protein 10 (BMP10), angiopoietin-2 (ANG2), Dickkopf WNT Signaling Pathway Inhibitor 3 (DKK3), Endothelial Cell Specific Molecule 1 (ESM1), Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23), Insulin Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 7 (IGFBP7) and total N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)] were assayed at Roche Diagnostics based on their possible association with recurrence of AF. Clinical follow-up visits combined with 12-lead ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring were scheduled at 3, 6 and 12 months post-procedure. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to study the association with recurrence of AF. Results Out of the 96 patients (mean age 58±8 years; 18% women), 17 (17.7%) developed recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation. Median time to diagnosis was 191 days (range: 92-344). Comparisons between patients with and without recurrence of AF are depicted in Table 1. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression, adjusted for sex, showed that older age (HR 1.104, 95% CI 1.003-1.215, p=0.043), type of AF (HR 0.322, 95% CI 0.117-0.886, p=0.028), a history of peripheral vascular disease (HR 13.84, 95% CI 3.13-61.14, p<0.001) and recurrence in the blanking period (HR 14.25, 95% CI 3.99-50.85, p<0.001) were associated with recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation, but no blood biomarkers (Figure 1). Conclusion In AF patients undergoing extensive ablation, older age, type of AF, a history of peripheral vascular disease and recurrence in the blanking period were determinants of AF recurrence within 1 year post-ablation.

Straight antegrade humeral nailing and risk of iatrogenic injury of supraspinatus tendon footprint: An MRI study

Background Straight antegrade humeral nailing (SAHN) is associated with excellent clinical results in proximal humerus fractures. The optimal entry point is the top of the humeral head. However, the anatomy is variable, and the entry point can affect supraspinatus tendon footprint (SSP-F) or fracture reduction. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the SSP-F and SAHN entry point by analyzing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the humerus. Methods In total 58 MRI studies of entire humerus were reviewed. The mean age was 51.6 ± 12.4 years, with 40 female patients. The distance between the SSP-F and the SAHN insertion point (critical distance: CD), the width of the footprint, and the neck-shaft angle (NSA) were measured. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed. Results The mean CD was 7.51 mm ± 2.81 (0–12.9 mm) with 51.7% of proximal humerus “critical type” (CD <8 mm). The CD was found to be lower in females, with no difference found with varying age (62.5% “critical type”). CD correlated with NSA (linear regression). “Critical type” correlated with female gender and NSA (logistic regression). Discussion More than half of the humerus are “critical types” as to SAHN and may, therefore, be at risk for procedure-related complications.

Current state of preoperative embolization for spinal metastasis – A survey by the EANS spine section

IntroductionPreoperative embolization (PE) for spinal metastasis can be used to reduce tumor blood supply in selected patients. The decision whether and when to perform PE varies largely among spine surgeons and centers. Research questionThe aim was to understand the current decision-making process in European spine centers. Material and methodsThe European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS) spine section designed a 13-item online survey. It was distributed to neurosurgical residents and board-certified neurosurgeons between 7th of February and May 5, 2023. ResultsWe analyzed 120 survey responses. Most participants were board-certified neurosurgeons (71%) or residents (26%) in university hospitals (76%). Routinely performed PE was stated not a common practice in 62%. Of those using PE, 25% indicated to perform it in selected cases requiring vertebral body replacement. Reasons for not performing PE included lack of time (44%), unclear benefits (25%), no significant bleeding without PE (19%), and significant bleeding despite PE (8%). Most participants opted for PE < 24h before surgery, but in a separate anesthesia (54%). More experienced participants were more likely to observe reduced blood loss (BL) after PE (p = 0.014). The most common reported complications were neurological deterioration due to spinal cord infarction (n = 15) and swelling due to tumor necrosis (n = 13). Discussion and conclusionsPE is still not a routine among European spine surgeons and is considered mostly for elective cases with hypervascularized tumors scheduled in a separate anesthesia <24h before tumor resection. Most participants noted reduced intraoperative BL, but also a risk of procedure-related complications.

Risk of lead explantation after first-time implantation of cardiac implantable electronic device as a function of comorbidity: a nationwide study

Abstract Background The benefit of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is challenged by the risk of procedure-related complications and lead explantation. Whether patient comorbidity burden is associated with risk of lead explantation &amp;lt;6 months of implantation is unknown. Purpose We assessed the risk of lead explantation and its association with comorbidity burden within 6 months after first-time CIED implantation. Methods The study population comprised patients ≥18 years old with first-time CIED implantation (i.e., pacemaker [PM], implantable cardioverter defibrillator [ICD], and cardiac resynchronisation therapy with defibrillator [CRT-D] or without [CRT-P]) using Danish nationwide registries including the Danish Pacemaker and ICD registry (1 January 2000 to 30 June 2018). Patients were followed from their first-time CIED implantation and 6 months forward. Patient comorbidity burden was categorised in four groups according to the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score: 0 (none), 1–2 (mild), 3–4 (moderate), and ≥5 (severe). Multivariable cause-specific Cox regression was performed to assess risk of lead explantation according to comorbidity burden, with death as competing risk. Comorbidity burden was adjusted for sex, age, type of CIED, and body mass index categories. Results We identified 73,491 patients with first-time CIED implantation including 55,733 (75.8%) with PM, 11,351 (15.5%) with ICD, 2,989 (4.1%) with CRT-P, and 3,418 (4.7%) with CRT-D. In total, 1,049 (1.4%) patients underwent lead explantation. The median age of the study population was 75.1 years [25th-75th percentile 66.2–82.5 years], and 62.1% were male. Patients undergoing lead explantation had higher median CCI score, compared with those not undergoing lead explantation (2 [1–3] and 1 [0–3], respectively). The median age and distribution of sex were similar in both groups. In the multivariable Cox regression model (Figure 1), an increase in patient comorbidity burden was associated with higher hazard ratio [HR] of lead explantation, compared with CCI score 0 (CCI score 1–2: HR=1.38 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.69], CCI score 3–4: HR=1.61 [95% CI: 1.28–2.03], and CCI score ≥5: HR=1.60 [95% CI: 1.25–2.05]). Conclusion Risk of lead explantation within 6 months after first-time implantation of cardiac implantable electronic device was 1.4% and associated with higher comorbidity burden. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Independent Research Fund Denmark

P-BN12 Impact of covid-19 on ugi (upper gastrointestinal) tract stenting and dilatation services- prioritise, keep scoping and training

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected endoscopy services including therapeutic gastroscopy across the UK. The BSG (British Society of Gastroenterology) issued guidance for managing endoscopy services safely throughout this period. At the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, a symptom-based questionnaire was used to screen patients for COVID-19 prior to their endoscopic procedures in our hospital (COVID-19 swabs were only carried out if patients presented with COVID-19 symptoms). From 18 May 2020 onwards, in addition to the above approach, all patients attending endoscopic procedures underwent a SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab 1-3 days prior to the procedure. We describe our experience of UGI stenting and dilatation during the initial wave of COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. AimsTo assess the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on technical and clinical success of luminal dilatation and stenting in the UGI tract and ascertain the risk of procedure related complications.MethodsA retrospective audit of a prospectively maintained endoscopy database was carried out between 18th March and 31st July. All patients were followed for 30 days. Full PPE were used.Results42 procedures [31 were oesophageal dilatation (21 peptic stricture, 9 radiotherapy stricture, 1 achalasia), 8 oesophageal stent insertion (6 for primary oesophageal cancer, 1 metastatic cancer and 1 secondary to external compression from lung cancer) and 3 pyloric dilatation all benign] were carried out-mean age 65 years, 64.3% males, 81% of procedures were carried out as outpatients. All procedures were performed under fluoroscopy. 41/42(97.6%) patients had a confirmed histology prior to their procedure – one patient who underwent oesophageal dilatation had a peptic stricture on endoscopy (no biopsy or imaging). 39/42(92.9%) patients had undergone CT scan and/or barium swallow prior to their first procedure. All procedures were technically and clinically successful (100%).There were no procedure related complications or mortality. There were no COVID positive swabs in the 30-day post procedure period during the entire study period. Trainees were present in 21/42 (50%) of the procedures. None of the endoscopists who were involved with these procedures were diagnosed with COVID-19 during this period. One of the nursing staff, who regularly assisted in the fluoroscopy room, was involved in a non-fluoroscopic endoscopic procedure in a COVID-19 patient (not known at the time of the procedure) and subsequently tested positive. ConclusionsOur study confirms that a high quality stenting and dilatation service of the upper gastrointestinal tract together with specialist registrar training can be delivered safely and effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic in appropriately prioritised symptomatic patients.

Evaluation of platelet count/spleen diameter ratio for detection of oesophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis of liver: a cross-sectional study

Background: Gastroesophageal varices due to portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Gold standard investigation for varices is esophagogastroduodenoscopy and patients are advised to undergo regular follow up based on the risk stratification. But the invasive nature, risk of procedure-related complication and lack of accessibility and affordability makes it important to identify simpler methods to screen patients. Platelet count/spleen diameter (PSD) ratio has been validated as a marker for oesophageal varices (OV) in multiple studies but with varying results. The present study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of PSD ratio in OV.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. Clinical examination, relevant laboratory investigations, abdominal ultrasound and endoscopy were performed and data were recorded. PSD was calculated. Receiver-operator characteristics curves were plotted to determine cut-off values. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated.Results: Total 100 patients were included in this study, out of which 25% of patients did not have varices on endoscopy. The mean PSD was for patients without varices 1242.82 (253.45) and 883.51 (582.38467) for patients with OV. The area-under-curve was 0.823, 95% CI=0.734-0.912, p value=0.000001. The cut-off value for PSD was calculated from the ROC analysis was 1077. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 76%, 88%, 95% and 55% respectively.Conclusions: PSD ratio is not an efficient parameter for detection of varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. The current evidence does not support its role as a screening test for identification of patients with OV.

Sex differences in mapping and rhythm outcomes of a repeat atrial fibrillation ablation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction The risk of procedure-related complications and rhythm outcomes differ between men and women after atrial fibrillation catheter ablation (AFCA). We evaluated whether consistent sex differences existed in mapping and rhythm outcomes in repeat ablation procedures. Methods Among 3,282 patients in the registry, we analysed 443 consecutive patients (24.6% female, 58.5 ± 10.3 years old, 61.5% paroxysmal AF) who underwent a second AFCA. We compared the clinical factors, mapping, left atrial (LA) pressure, complications, and long-term clinical recurrences after propensity score matching. Results The LA volume index (43.1 ± 18.6 vs. 35.8 ± 11.6 ml/m2, p &amp;lt; 0.001) was higher, but LA dimension (40.0 ± 6.8 vs. 41.6 ± 6.3mm, p = 0.018), LA voltage (0.94 ± 0.55 vs. 1.20 ± 0.68 mV, p = 0.002), and pericardial fat volume (89.5 ± 43.1 vs. 122.1 ± 53.9 cm3, p &amp;lt; 0.001) lower in women with a repeat ablation than in their male counterparts. The pulmonary vein (PV) reconnections were lower (58.7% vs. 74.9%, p = 0.001), but the proportion of extra-PV triggers (27.5% vs. 17.0%, p = 0.026) and elevated LA pulse pressures (79.7% vs. 63.7%, p = 0.019) was significantly higher in women than men. There was no significant sex difference in the procedure-related complication rate (4.6% vs. 4.2%, p = 0.791). During a 31(8∼60) month median follow-up, clinical recurrences were significantly higher in women after both the de novo procedure (log rank p = 0.039, antiarrhythmic drug [AAD]-free log rank p &amp;lt; 0.001) and second procedure (log rank p = 0.006, AAD-free log rank p = 0.093). A female sex (HR 1.51 [1.06-2.15], p = 0.023), non-paroxysmal AF (HR 1.78 [1.30-2.34], p &amp;lt; 0.010), and extra-PV triggers (HR 1.88 [1.28-2.75], p = 0.001) were independently associated with clinical recurrences after repeat procedures. Conclusions During the repeat AFCA procedures, PV reconnections were lower in women than men, and the existence of extra-PV triggers and an LA pressure elevation was more significant, which resulted in poor rhythm outcomes.

Endoscopic Treatment for Superficial Nonampullary Duodenal Tumors.

Superficial nonampullary duodenal epithelial tumors are considered rare but have been increasingly recognized in recent years. Accordingly, the importance of endoscopic treatment for the lesions are also increasing. An endoscopic resection can be considered for duodenal adenoma and mucosal cancer. The choice of resection method should be made based on the size of the lesion, endoscopic findings, pathologic diagnosis, and risk of procedure-related complication. For small adenomas <10 mm in size, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), cold snare polypectomy, and underwater EMR can be considered. An en bloc or piecemeal resection using EMR or underwater EMR can be selected for 10-20 mm sized adenomas. For lesions ≥20 mm in size or suspicious for mucosal cancer, an endoscopic submucosal dissection followed by closure of the mucosal defect conducted by an experienced endoscopist is appropriate.

Lung Ultrasonography in the Monitoring of Intraoperative Recruitment Maneuvers

Introduction: Postoperative respiratory failure is a serious problem in patients who undergo general anesthesia. Approximately 90% of mechanically ventilated patients during the surgery may develop atelectasis that leads to perioperative complications. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine whether it is possible to optimize recruitment maneuvers with the use of chest ultrasonography, thus limiting the risk of respiratory complications in patients who undergo general anesthesia. Methodology: The method of incremental increases in positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) values with simultaneous continuous ultrasound assessments was employed in mechanically ventilated patients. Results: The study group comprised 100 patients. The employed method allowed for atelectasis reduction in 91.9% of patients. The PEEP necessary to reverse areas of atelectasis averaged 17cmH2O, with an average peak pressure of 29cmH2O. The average PEEP that prevented repeat atelectasis was 9cmH2O. A significant improvement in lung compliance and saturation was obtained. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided recruitment maneuvers facilitate the patient-based adjustment of the process. Consequently, the reduction in ventilation pressures necessary to aerate intraoperative atelectasis is possible, with the simultaneous reduction in the risk of procedure-related complications.

Abstract 14804: Complications and Mortality Following CRT-D versus ICD Implants in Older Medicare Beneficiaries

Introduction: Despite growing numbers of older HF patients, clinical trials of implantable defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) rarely include older patients (≥75 yrs). Hypotheses: (1) Among Medicare beneficiaries, older CRT-D patients have a higher risk of procedure-related complications than older ICD patients. (2) Compared with older ICD patients, older CRT-D patients have lower risk of death. Methods: We identified Medicare beneficiaries with HF and reduced LVEF who underwent ICD or CRT-D implant based on CPT codes (1/2008-8/2015) by age group (65-74, 75-84, and 85+). After matching device groups with inverse probability weighting (IPW), we estimated the comparative hazard ratio (HR) of death by age group and device type using a Cox proportional hazards model. Results: Compared with the ICD group, the CRT-D group was older and more likely to be white and female and have atrial fibrillation; CRT-D patients were less likely to have ischemic heart disease. Use of guideline directed medical therapy was similar between groups. In all age groups, complications were more common in the CRT-D group. IPW was successful, and after matching, the HR for death was lower in the CRT-D versus the ICD group; this finding was most pronounced in the 85+ age group in which the HR for death in the CRT-D versus ICD group was 0.76 (95% CI 0.64-0.88). (Table) Conclusions: Procedure-related complications in older HF patients were higher in CRT-D versus ICD patients and generally increased with age. Overall high post-implant mortality in ICD patients (± CRT) highlights the difficulty in assessing competing mortality risk when considering patients for an ICD especially in the oldest patients in whom clinical trial data are absent. However, in matched Medicare beneficiaries, CRT-D was associated with a lower risk of mortality in all age groups compared with ICD alone. These findings support the use of CRT in eligible older patients undergoing ICD implantation.

Coil embolization of a thoracic aorta hematoma with branch artery pseudoaneurysm \u2013 case report

BackgroundA thoracic aorta hematoma with branch artery pseudonaneurysm is a very rare complication of thoraric blunt trauma. The standard treatment of this type of injury is aortic endograft placement.Case presentationWe present a case in which a thoracic aorta hematoma with branch artery pseudoaneurysm was treated with coil embolization instead of endografting.ConclusionsCoil embolization of aortic injuries may be a safe and definitive treatment alternative in selected cases. This technique has the potential to reduce the risk of procedure-related complications.

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: tool or toy?

Neurological outcome and quality of live are of uttermost interest in survivors of cardiac arrest. Assuming acceptable rates of return of spontaneous circulation, the long-term effects on neurological function and quality of live after cardiopulmonary resuscitation remain unsatisfactory. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (eCPR) can reduce low-flow times and therefore provide adequate cerebral tissue perfusion and oxygenation. This may improve favorable outcomes after cardiac arrest. Due to the risk of procedure related complications and ethical issues, this technique should be only performed in selected patients by specially trained and experienced teams. In this review we aimed at providing an insight into the sparse evidence in this field and discussing ethical issues associated with the use of eCPR.

Drug-coated balloon versus conventional balloon angioplasty of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula or graft: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BackgroundRestenosis remains a significant problem in endovascular therapy for hemodialysis vascular access. Drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty decreases restenosis in peripheral and coronary artery diseases. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the patency outcomes following DCB angioplasty, as compared to conventional balloon (CB) angioplasty for the stenosis of hemodialysis vascular access.MethodsA comprehensive search in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases was conducted in order to identify eligible randomized controlled trials evaluating DCB angioplasty for hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction. The primary endpoint was the 6-month target lesion primary patency and the secondary endpoints were 12-month target lesion primary patency and procedure-related complications. Risk ratios (RR) were pooled and relevant subgroups were analyzed separately.ResultsEleven randomized controlled trials comprised of 487 patients treated with DCB angioplasty and 489 patients treated with CB angioplasty were included. There were no significant differences in the target lesion primary patency at 6 months [RR, 0.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.56, 1.01; p = 0.06] and at 12 months (RR 0.89; 95% CI, 0.79, 1.00; p = 0.06). The absence of benefit for the DCB group remained, even in the arteriovenous fistula subgroup or the subgroup of studies excluding central vein stenosis. The risk of procedure-related complication did not differ between the two groups (RR 1.00; 95% CI 0.98, 1.02; p = 0.95).ConclusionDCB angioplasty did not demonstrate significant patency benefit for the treatment of hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction. Wide variations in patency outcomes across studies were noted. Further studies focusing on specific types of access or lesions are warranted to clarify the value of DCB for hemodialysis vascular access. (PROSPERO Number CRD42019119938)

Clinically Suspected Cast Nephropathy: A Retrospective, Multi-Center, Real-World Study

INTRODUCTION Myeloma cast nephropathy (CN) is the most common form of monoclonal immunoglobulin-mediated kidney disease, resulting from the precipitation of excessive amounts of monoclonal serum free light chains (sFLC) and causing around 70% of the cases of dialysis-dependent renal failure in multiple myeloma (MM)(Heher et al. 2013; Nasr et al. 2012; Sanders et al. 1991). In patients with acute renal failure, the finding of a high sFLC concentration with an abnormal sFLC ratio raises the clinical suspicion of CN (Hutchison et al. 2011). Although the histopathologic diagnosis of CN is established by renal biopsy, in routine clinical practice, the diagnostic yield of this procedure is often outweighed by the urgent need of anti-myeloma treatment and the risk of procedure-related complications. Recruitment of patients with CN into clinical trials is challenging and therefore real-world data on clinically suspected CN are necessary to understand the clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis of these patients (Bridoux et al. 2017; Hutchison et al. 2019). METHODS We searched the population-based Danish Multiple Myeloma Registry for patients diagnosed with MM according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria between 1st of January 2013 and 31st of December 2017 with a serum creatinine concentration of 200 µg/L or higher and a sFLC concentration of 1000 mg/L or higher at diagnosis. We conducted a retrospective patient chart review in eight Danish centers and assessed baseline characteristics, biopsy results, and overall survival. Anti-myeloma treatment, sFLC levels and renal function were registered during the first 12 months after MM diagnosis. RESULTS We identified 181 patients (176 with accessible clinical records). The median age was 72 years, the median serum creatinine was 384 µg/L, the median involved sFLC concentration was 5960 mg/L and dialysis dependent renal failure was present in 35%. Pre-myeloma estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was available in 80%, the median eGFR was 66 ml/min/1.73 m2. A kidney biopsy was carried out in 21% of patients and showed CN in 70% of cases. The median time from first sFLC measurement to initiation of therapy was 4 days. The number of lines of therapy ranged between zero and six. 173 patients received one, 35 patients received two and 14 patients received three lines of therapy during the first 12 months from diagnosis. High-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplantation (HDT-ASCT) was carried out in 45 (26%) patients. Bortezomib was administered as part of the first-line regimen in 163 (94%) patients. The most common first-line regimens were bortezomib-dexamethasone (n=67) and cyclophosphamide-bortezomib-dexamethasone (n=46). The first line of therapy resulted in very good partial response or better in 50% (Figure 1A), but was discontinued due to death, toxicity or progressive disease in 38% of patients. Dialysis dependency, eGFR and involved sFLC concentration were assessed at the end of the first cycle, at three months, six months and 12 months after initiation of therapy. At all these time points, achievement of renal recovery was associated with the magnitude of reduction of involved sFLC (Figure 1B). The median overall survival was 3.3 years (Figure 1C). At 12 months after diagnosis, 68% of patients were alive and 15% were dialysis dependent. Reduction of the initial involved sFLC concentration to ≤ 10% at three months was strongly associated with longer OS in a multivariate cox regression analysis adjusted for age and HDT-ASCT; hazard ratio 0.42, p=0.003. CONCLUSION In conclusion, we assessed a population-based cohort of newly diagnosed MM patients presenting with a serum creatinine of 200 µg/L or higher together with a sFLC of 1000 mg/L or higher. Although CN could have been clinically suspected in these cases, a kidney biopsy was only performed in one fifth of the population. Bortezomib-based therapy was initiated quickly and resulted in deep responses in most patients. Approximately one third of patients died within a year from MM diagnosis. Achievement of early and deep reduction in involved sFLC resulted in longer OS. Figure 1 Disclosures Szabo: Janssen: Consultancy. Vangsted:Takeda: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Jansen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Sanofi: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Oncopeptides: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Plesner:Celgene: Consultancy; AbbVie: Consultancy; Genmab: Consultancy; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Takeda: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding.

Oncologic benefits of dural resection in spinal meningiomas: a meta-analysis of Simpson grades and recurrence rates.

While resection of the dural attachment has been shown by Simpson and others to reduce recurrence rates for intracranial meningiomas, the oncological benefit of dural resection for spinal meningiomas is less clear. The authors performed a systematic analysis of the literature, comparing recurrence rates for patients undergoing various Simpson grade resections of spinal meningiomas to better understand the role of dural resection on outcomes after resection of spinal meningiomas. The PubMed/Medline database was systematically searched to identify studies describing oncological and clinical outcomes after Simpson grade I, II, III, or IV resections of spinal meningiomas. Thirty-two studies describing the outcomes of 896 patients were included in the analysis. Simpson grade I, grade II, and grade III/IV resections were performed in 27.5%, 64.6%, and 7.9% of cases, respectively. The risk of procedure-related complications (OR 4.75, 95% CI 1.27-17.8, p = 0.021) and new, unexpected postoperative neurological deficits (OR ∞, 95% CI NaN-∞, p = 0.009) were both significantly greater for patients undergoing Simpson grade I resections when compared with those undergoing Simpson grade II resections. Tumor recurrence was seen in 2.8%, 4.1%, and 39.4% of patients undergoing Simpson grade I, grade II, and grade III/IV resections over a mean radiographic follow-up period of 99.3 ± 46.4 months, 95.4 ± 57.1 months, and 82.4 ± 49.3 months, respectively. No significant difference was detected between the recurrence rates for Simpson grade I versus Simpson grade II resections (OR 1.43, 95% CI 0.61-3.39, p = 0.43). A meta-analysis of 7 studies directly comparing recurrence rates for Simpson grade I and II resections demonstrated a trend toward a decreased likelihood of recurrence after Simpson grade I resection when compared with Simpson grade II resection, although this trend did not reach statistical significance (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.23-1.36, p = 0.20). The results of this analysis suggest with a low level of confidence that the rates of complications and new, unexpected neurological deficits after Simpson grade I resection of spinal meningiomas are greater than those seen with Simpson grade II resections, and that the recurrence rates for Simpson grade I and grade II resections are equivalent, although additional, long-term studies are needed before reliable conclusions may be drawn.

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke and Elevated Troponin: A TRoponin ELevation in Acute Ischemic Stroke (TRELAS) Sub-Study

Background: Elevated high-sensitive cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) can be found in more than 50% of the patients with acute ischemic stroke. The observational TRoponin ELevation in Acute ischemic Stroke (TRELAS) study revealed that about 25% of all stroke patients with elevated troponin had a coronary angiography-detected culprit lesion affording immediate intervention, and about 50% of all patients did not have any obstructive coronary artery disease. Given the risk of procedure-related complications, the identification of stroke patients in urgent need of invasive coronary angiography is desirable. Methods: TRELAS patients were prospectively enrolled into this sub-study. In addition to conventional coronary angiography, a cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3T was performed during the in-hospital stay after acute ischemic stroke to compare the diagnostic value of both imaging modalities. Results:Nine stroke patients (median age 73 years [range 58–87]; four females; median NIH Stroke Severity score on admission 4 [range 0–6] with elevated hs-cTnT [median 74 ng/L, interquartile range 41–247] on admission) completed cardiac MRI and underwent coronary angiography. The absence of MRI-detected wall motion abnormalities and/or late gadolinium enhancement in 5 stroke patients corresponded with the exclusion of culprit lesions or significant coronary artery disease by coronary angiography. Four patients had abnormal MRI findings, whereof 2 showed evidence of myocardial infarction and in whom coronary angiography demonstrated a >70% stenosis of a coronary artery. Conclusions: The TRELAS sub-study indicates that noninvasive cardiac MRI may provide helpful information to identify stroke patients with or without acute coronary syndrome. Our findings might help to select stroke patients in urgent need of coronary angiography.

Outcomes and Complications After the Use of the Pipeline Embolization Device in the Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms of the Posterior Circulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The use of the Pipeline embolization device (PED) for posterior circulation aneurysms is controversial. The aim of this study was to explore the safety and efficacy of PED for these aneurysms in a meta-analysis. Meta-regression was used to identify predictors for incomplete aneurysm occlusion and procedure-related complications. PubMed, Web of Science, and OVID databases were searched to identify all published references evaluating the treatment effect of PED for posterior circulation aneurysms. Only studies written in English that reported original data and included >10 cases were considered for inclusion. Patient demographics, aneurysm characteristics, angiographic outcomes, and clinical outcomes were extracted. A random-effects model was adopted to pool the obliteration rates and complication rates across selected studies. Finally, we conducted meta-regression analysis to identify predictors of angiographic outcomes. 12 studies including 358 patients with 365 aneurysms were included. The pooled complete aneurysm obliteration rate was 82% (95% confidence interval 73%-90%), and pooled procedure-related complication rate was 18% (95% confidence interval 14%-22%). Increasing age predicted incomplete obliteration of aneurysms after PED treatment in these patients (P= 0.01). PED is an alternative to treat intracranial aneurysms of the posterior circulation, achieving high complete occlusion rates, but it is less effective in elderly patients. The risk of procedure-related complications is not negligible. Further larger, long-term follow-up studies are needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Colitis-Associated Dysplasia.

Dysplasia is a precancerous lesion of colorectal cancer in patients with long-standing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Recent guidelines suggest endoscopic resection as a key modality for the treatment of endoscopically resectable dysplasia in patients with colitis. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been suggested as one of the therapeutic options for dysplasia that is potentially resectable but not suitable for the conventional endoscopic mucosal resection technique. Several recent studies supported the feasibility of ESD for the treatment of colitis-associated dysplasia in terms of the en bloc and complete resection rates and the risk of procedure-related complications. However, these studies were performed exclusively in expert centers. Moreover, the local and metachronous recurrence rates were relatively high, and long-term outcome data are still lacking. Endoscopists should be highly skilled in colorectal ESD and have an intensive understanding of not only the lesions but also the conditions of patients with IBDs. Therefore, the decision to perform ESD for colitis-associated dysplasia should be made scrupulously after careful discussion with patients, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary IBD team including physicians, surgeons, and pathologists specialized in IBDs.

Relationship between adverse events and antiplatelet drug resistance in neurovascular intervention: a meta-analysis

BackgroundThis meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between antiplatelet resistance and the risk of procedure-related complications in neurovascular interventions.MethodsWe identified relevant articles by searching electronic databases and reviewed the reference...