Runoff Score Research Articles

Development of a clinical and ultrasonic parameter-based nomogram model to predict restenosis after superficial femoral artery stenting.

Prediction of in-stent restenosis (ISR) is clinically important for patients with peripheral artery disease in their superficial femoral arteries (SFA) who have been treated with stenting. The aim of this study was to construct and validate a predictive model for ISR after SFA stenting based on a series of clinical and ultrasonic parameters. This retrospective study included 381 patients who were treated with self-expanding bare nitinol stents in their SFA at our hospital between January 1, 2018, and January 1, 2022. These patients were randomly allocated to a training cohort (266 patients) or a validation cohort (115). Clinical and ultrasonic parameters related to ISR (>50%) in the SFA at 12 months were derived by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses to create a nomogram model predictive of risk of ISR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used to assess the recognition ability of the model. A calibration curve was used to evaluate the model's calibration ability, and decision curve analysis was used to validate the nomogram's clinical utility. Logistic regression analyses showed that sex, echogenicity of the target plaque, preoperative arterial runoff score, preoperative popliteal artery flow rate, lesion length, and residual diameter were risk factors for ISR; these parameters were used to construct the nomogram model. Internal and external validation showed that the areas under the ROC curves were 0.82 (95%CI: 0.77-0.87) and 0.70 (95%CI: 0.60-0.79), respectively, suggesting good recognition ability of the model. Additionally, calibration curves for the predictive model indicated good calibration, and decision curve analysis demonstrated clinical utility of the model. This novel nomogram that predicts ISR after SFA stenting demonstrated excellent discriminatory power, calibration capacity, and clinical usefulness.

Intraluminal crossing of infrainguinal SFA chronic total occlusions may offer patency superiority compared to subintimal crossing.

Patency for chronic total occlusions (CTO) of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) after endovascular interventions traditionally demonstrate a low 1-year patency ranging from 40%-60%. The optical coherence tomography (OCT) catheter (Avinger Inc., Redwood City, CA) uses light-based technology imaging to cross Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus D (TASC D) lesions intraluminally with direct intra-arterial visualization. Insufficient data exist evaluating intraluminal crossing with OCT imaging compared with traditional subintimal techniques. We evaluated outcomes for TASC D lesions crossed intraluminally. A retrospective analysis of patients with SFA TASC D lesions crossed intra-arterially with the OCT catheter imaging. Descriptive statistics evaluated patient characteristics which included patient demographics, Rutherford scores, ABIs, CTA information, lesion categorization, as well as runoff score. Patency at baseline, 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year outcomes were compared using t-tests. Cumulative patency rates were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. 101 patients underwent elective intervention for SFA TASC D lesions with the OCT catheter. The crossing rate was 78.2%, mean lesion length was 16.2cm, and runoff at the tibial level was 2.2 patent vessels. Mean age and BMI were 64 years and 29kg/m2, respectively. Patient characteristics are male (57%); Caucasian (90%); ever smoking (85%); hypertension (82%), hyperlipidemia (70%), and diabetes (46%). Pre-operative computed tomography demonstrated SFA lesions were predominantly eccentric (91%) with mild to moderate calcification (90%). All underwent PTA, 87% were stented (mean stent length: 186.1mm), mean crossing time was 13.4 min. Pre-operative, 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year post-operative mean Rutherford-Becker scores were 4, 1, 1, and 1, respectively (p < 0.0001). Mean pre-operative ABI was 0.49, compared to 0.84 at 30 days, 0.64 at 6 months, and 0.67 at 1 year (p < .0001). Duplex demonstrated 6- and 12-month primary patency of 89% and 75%; primary-assisted patency was 94% and 84%. The OCT imaging catheter successfully crossed long chronic total occlusions of the SFA using direct intra-arterial imaging. Compared to subintimal techniques, patients had high 1-year primary patency and prolonged symptom improvement with intraluminal crossing. These data suggest that intraluminal crossing of TASC D lesions may be superior to traditional subintimal crossing techniques.

Influence of a Novel Morphology-Driven Classification on Limb Salvage after Isolated Tibial Intervention for Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia

Infra-popliteal interventions for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) can be impacted by the morphology of the tibial vessels. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a novel morphology-driven classification on the outcomes of isolated tibial intervention for CLTI. A database of patients undergoing isolated tibial interventions for CLTI at a single center between 2010 and 2020 was retrospectively queried. Patients with isolated infra-popliteal disease were identified, and their anatomy was scored as present or absent for lesion calcification (1 point), target vessel diameter<3.0mm (1 point), lesion length>300mm (1 point), and poor pedal runoff score (1 point). Patients were then divided into 3 groups: low risk (0 or 1 points), moderate risk (2 points), and high risk (3 or 4 points). Intention to treat analysis by the patient was performed. Limb-based patency (the absence of reintervention, occlusion, critical stenosis [>70%], or hemodynamic compromise with ongoing symptoms of CLTI as it related to the patency of the preoperatively determined target artery pathway) was assessed. Patient-oriented outcomes of amputation-free survival (AFS; survival without major amputation) and freedom from major adverse limb events (MALE; above ankle amputation of the index limb or major reintervention: new bypass graft, jump/interposition graft revision) were evaluated. 1,607 patients (55% male, average age 60years, 3,846 vessels) underwent tibial intervention for CLTI. The majority of the patients were diabetic and of Hispanic origin. Morphologically, 27%, 31%, and 42% of the vessels were categorized as low risk, moderate risk, and high risk, respectively. There was a significant worsening of the infra-popliteal Global Limb Anatomic Staging System (GLASS) grading as the morphological risk increased. The 30-day major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were equivalent across the groups and were under the stated objective performance goal (OPG) of ≤10%. In contrast, both the 30-day MALE and the 30-day major amputations were significantly different across the groups, with the low-risk group remaining under the OPG of ≤9% and ≤4%, respectively, while the moderate risk and high risk exceeded the goal threshold. For the OPG, freedom from MALE was 60±5%, 46±5%, and 22±9% at 5years for low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups, respectively (mean±standard error of the mean; P=0.008). Overall AFS was 55±5%, 37±6%, and 18±7% at 5years for low-, moderate-, and high-risk groups, respectively (mean±standard error of the mean; P=0.003). Tibial anatomic morphology impacts isolated tibial endovascular intervention with adverse morphology associated with poorer short- and long-term outcomes. Risk stratification based on anatomic predictors should be an additional consideration as one intervenes on infra-popliteal vessels for CLTI.

Association of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease with quantitative muscle features from computed tomography angiography

ObjectivesTo explore the association between lower extremity muscle features from CTA and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) severity using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as reference standard.MethodsInformed consent was waived for this Institutional Review Board approved retrospective study. PAD patients were recruited from July 2016 to September 2020. Two radiologists evaluated PAD severity on DSA and CTA using runoff score. The patients were divided into two groups: mild PAD (DSA score ≤ 7) vs. severe PAD (DSA score > 7). After segmenting lower extremity muscles from CTA, 95 features were extracted for univariable analysis, logistic regression model (LRM) analysis, and sub-dataset analysis (PAD prediction based on only part of the images). AUC of CTA score and LRMs for PAD prediction were calculated. Features were analyzed using Student’s t test and chi-squared test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsA total of 56 patients (69 ± 11 years; 38 men) with 56 lower legs were enrolled in this study. The lower leg muscles of mild PAD group (36 patients) showed higher CT values (44.6 vs. 39.5, p < 0.001) with smaller dispersion (35.6 vs. 41.0, p < 0.001) than the severe group (20 patients). The AUC of CTA score, LRM-I (constructed with muscle features), and LRM-II (constructed with muscle features and CTA score) for PAD severity prediction were 0.81, 0.84, and 0.89, respectively. The highest predictive performance was observed in the image subset of the middle and inferior segments of lower extremity (LRM-I, 0.83; LRM-II, 0.90).ConclusionsLower extremity muscle features are associated with PAD severity and can be used for PAD prediction.Critical relevance statementQuantitative image features of lower extremity muscles are associated with the degree of lower leg arterial stenosis/occlusion and can be a beneficial supplement to the current imaging methods of vascular stenosis evaluation for the prediction of peripheral arterial disease severity.Key points• Compared with severe PAD, lower leg muscles of mild PAD showed higher CT values (39.5 vs. 44.6, p < 0.001).• Models developed with muscle CT features had AUC = 0.89 for predicting PAD.• PAD severity prediction can be realized through the middle and inferior segment of images (AUC = 0.90).Graphical

Early outcomes of drug-coated balloon angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions in diabetic foot

Abstract: PURPOSE: To evaluate 6-month outcomes of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions in patients with diabetic foot. METHODS: We analyzed 6-month follow-up data from the prospective PRIME-WIFI study with 203 consecutive patientswith diabetic foot who underwent DCB angioplasty for infrapopliteal arterial occlusive disease. The primary outcome was freedom from major adverse event (MAE), a composite of major amputation, all-cause death, and clinically-driven target limb reintervention (CD-TLR). Secondary outcomes included amputation-free survival (AFS), freedom from each primary outcome component, and complete wound healing. RESULTS: The mean age was 69.78 ± 9.50 years and 61 were female. A total of 271 lesions, with an average length of 26.02 ± 12.94 cm, accepted DCB angioplasty. Both infrapopliteal runoff score and pedal runoff score improved significantly after procedure compared with baseline. The score changes were − 5.73 and − 0.39, respectively (P &lt; 0.001 for both). Within 6-month follow-up, 16 of the 203 patients died and 32 (15.76%) were lost to follow-up. By Kaplan–Meier analysis, at 6 months postprocedure, freedom from MAE was 85.77% (95% confidence interval [CI], 80.92%–90.91%); AFS was 88.88% (95% CI, 84.49%–93.49%); and freedom from major amputation, all-cause death, and CD-TLR were 95.65% (95% CI, 92.73%–98.65%), 92.57% (95% CI, 88.88%–96.4%), and 95.51% (95% CI, 92.51%–98.61%), respectively. During the 6-month follow up, complete wound healing was achieved in 67.11% patients. CONCLUSION: In patients with diabetic foot, DCB angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions was effective and safe.

Safety and efficacy of mechanical aspiration thrombectomy for patients with acute lower extremity ischemia

ObjectiveAcute limb ischemia (ALI) is associated with high rates of amputation and consequent morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study is to report on the safety and efficacy of aspiration thrombectomy using the Indigo Aspiration System in patients with lower extremity (LE) ALI. MethodsThe STRIDE study was an international, multicenter, prospective, study that enrolled 119 participants presenting with LE-ALI. Patients were treated firstline with mechanical thrombectomy using the Indigo Aspiration System, before stenting or angioplasty, or other therapies as determined by treating physician. The primary end point was target limb salvage at 30 days after the procedure. Secondary end points within 30 days included technical success, defined as core laboratory-adjudicated Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 2/3 flow rate immediately after the procedure, changes in modified Society for Vascular Surgery runoff score, improvement of Rutherford classification compared with before the procedure, patency, rate of device-related serious adverse events, and major periprocedural bleeding. Secondary end points that will be evaluated at 12 months include target limb salvage and mortality. ResultsOf the 119 participants enrolled at 16 sites, the mean age was 66.3 years (46.2% female). At baseline (n = 119), ischemic severity was classified as Rutherford I in 10.9%, Rutherford IIa in 54.6%, and Rutherford IIb in 34.5%. The mean target thrombus length was 125.7 ± 124.7 mm. Before the procedure, 93.0% (of patients 107/115) had no flow (TIMI 0) through the target lesion. The target limb salvage rate at 30 days was 98.2% (109/111). The rate of periprocedural major bleed was 4.2% (5/119) and device-related serious adverse events was 0.8% (1/119). Restoration of flow (TIMI 2/3) was achieved in 96.3% of patients (105/109) immediately after the procedure. The median improvement in the modified Society for Vascular Surgery runoff score (before vs after the procedure) was 6.0 (interquartile range, 0.0-11.0). Rutherford classifications also improved after discharge in 86.5% of patients (83/96), as compared with preprocedural scores. Patency at 30 days was achieved in 89.4% of patients (101/113). ConclusionsIn the STRIDE (A Study of Patients with Lower Extremity Acute Limb Ischemia to Remove Thrombus with the Indigo Aspiration System) study, aspiration thrombectomy with the Indigo System provided a safe and effective endovascular treatment for patients with LE-ALI, resulting in a high rate (98.2%) of successful limb salvage at 30 days, with few periprocedural complications.

Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty of Infrapopliteal Lesions in Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia: Six-month Outcomes of PRIME-WIFI.

To evaluate 6-month outcomes of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). We analyzed 6-month follow-up data from the 10-center PRIME-WIFI prospective registry on 300 consecutive patients (33.000% female) with CLTI who underwent DCB angioplasty for infrapopliteal arterial lesions. The primary outcome was freedom from major adverse event (MAE), a composite of major amputation, all-cause death, and clinically-driven target limb reintervention (CD-TLR). Secondary outcomes included amputation-free survival (AFS), freedom from each primary outcome component, primary sustained clinical improvement, and quality of life (QOL) score. Independent risk factors of MAE were determined using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. A total of 409 infrapopliteal lesions in 312 limbs were treated with DCB, with 54.167% of the limbs being treated for isolated infrapopliteal lesions. By Kaplan-Meier analysis, at 6 months post- procedure (follow-up rate, 85.000%), freedom from MAE was 86.353%; AFS was 90.318%; and freedom from major amputation, all-cause death, and CD-TLR were 96.429%, 93.480%, and 95.079%, respectively. At 6-month follow-up, 83.590% of patients showed primary sustained clinical improvement, and QOL score (4.902±1.388) improved compared with that before procedure (2.327±1.109; p<0.001). Chronic renal insufficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Rutherford grade, and postoperative infrapopliteal runoff score were independent risk factors for MAE within 6 months. In CLTI, DCB angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions yields acceptable early efficacy and safety. This study evaluated the 6-month outcomes of DCB angioplasty in infrapopliteal lesions in CLTI patients by analyzing multicenter prospective data, showing that infrapopliteal DCB angioplasty can be performed with acceptable freedom from MAE rate, amputation-free survival rate, freedom from major amputation rate, survival rate, and freedom from CD-TLR rate. No patient experienced DCB-related intraoperative distal embolism. Chronic renal insufficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Rutherford grade and postoperative infrapopliteal runoff score were independent risk factors for MAE within 6 months. Comparative real-world studies are needed.

Impact of Runoff Quality on Superficial Femoral Artery Endovascular Interventions: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Endovascular therapy is the first choice for femoropopliteal occlusive disease treatment in most cases. Multiple factors are known to affect the outcomes of endovascular therapy, including lesion anatomy and distal runoff status. Information regarding the influence of runoff status on the outcomes of superficial femoral artery (SFA) interventions is still scarce and has not been well studied in the current literature. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the runoff score on the outcomes of endovascular SFA interventions.

Angioscopic Ulcerated Plaques in the Femoropopliteal Artery Associated with Impaired Infrapopliteal Runoff

PurposeTo determine the correlation between upstream atherosclerosis in the femoropopliteal arteries, assessed using angioscopy, and impaired infrapopliteal runoff. Materials and MethodsThirty-one patients with peripheral arterial disease who underwent endovascular therapy and angioscopy were prospectively included. Yellow plaque color scores were semiquantitatively determined as 0, 1, 2, or 3. Irregular plaques with rough surfaces, similar to gastric ulcers, were defined as ulcerated plaques (UPs). Angioscopic data were correlated with angiographic runoff scores (ARS). ResultsUPs were detected in 74.2% of enrolled diseased legs using angioscopy. Mural thrombi were more commonly observed in the femoropopliteal artery in patients with UPs than in those without UPs (91.3% vs 37.5%, respectively; P = .006) and were frequently found on the UPs (21/23 patients with UPs). Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that the presence of UPs was positively and independently associated with a poor ARS and that oral anticoagulant use was independently associated with a preferable ARS (standardized β = 0.462, P = .004 and standardized β = −0.411, P = .009, respectively, in the multivariate analysis). ConclusionsUPs, associated with mural thrombi and diagnosed by angioscopic examination, were demonstrated to be one of the factors associated with poor infrapopliteal runoff.

Efficacy and one-year outcomes of Luminor® paclitaxel-coated drug-eluting balloon in the treatment of popliteal artery atherosclerosis lesions.

Reporting outcomes with a new generation paclitaxel eluting balloon (Luminor®; iVascular, Vascular, S.L.U., Barcelona, Spain) in the popliteal district. Endovascular treatment of popliteal artery atherosclerotic disease is still debated without definitive evidences. From January to June 2019, patients' data presenting popliteal artery atherosclerotic diseases and treated with the Luminor® (iVascular) drug eluting balloon (DEB) were prospectively collected. Critical limb ischemia (CLI) or severe claudication associated with popliteal artery stenosis >50% were the inclusion criteria. Measured outcomes were technical success, early and late results; including mortality, morbidity, symptoms recurrence, amputation, ankle-brachial index (ABI), survival, primary patency, secondary patency, freedom from restenosis. Median follow-up was 22.43 ± 4 (mean:21.58; IQR:20-24) months. Of the 33 included patients, 28 (85%) were diagnosed with CLI, with a mean preoperative run-off score of 5.39 (r:0-10; SD:3) and a chronic popliteal occlusion in 21 (64%). Technical success was achieved in all cases. Perioperative mortality was observed in 1 (3%) patient and perioperative complications in 2 (6%). During the follow-up were reported 2 symptoms recurrence; a significant ABI increase (0.57; IQR:0.41-0.47 vs. 0.69; IQR:0.50-0.67; P < 0.01); 1 (3%) major and 2 (6%) minor amputations. Estimated 24 months survival, primary patency, secondary patency, and freedom from restenosis were 97%, 96.9%, 100%, and 93.8% respectively. In this prospective study, the use of the Luminor® (iVascular) was safe and effective in addressing atherosclerotic popliteal artery lesions. Larger studies with longer term-outcomes are required to assess the durability of this device in the popliteal artery.

AB044. SOH21AS206. Significance of distal run-off score as a key influencer on clinical outcomes following endovascular interventions for superficial femoral artery disease

AB044. SOH21AS206. Significance of distal run-off score as a key influencer on clinical outcomes following endovascular interventions for superficial femoral artery disease

Factors associated with infrainguinal bypass graft patency at 1-year; a retrospective analysis of a single centre experience.

Introduction:The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with primary graft patency 1 year following open lower limb revascularisation (LLR) at a tertiary referral vascular service.Methods:A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing infra-inguinal bypass surgery between January 2016 and May 2017 at a tertiary vascular centre (St Mary’s Hospital, London) was performed. Data regarding patient demographics, comorbidities, type of operation and post-operative anti-thrombotic strategy were collected. Quality of run-off score was assessed from pre-operative imaging.Results:Seventy-seven cases were included in the analysis. Overall, the primary patency rate at 1-year was 63.6% (n = 49/77) and the secondary patency rate was 67.5% (n = 52/77). Independent variables with statistically significant inferior patency rates at 1-year were (1) bypasses with below knee targets (p = 0.0096), (2) chronic limb threatening ischaemia indication (p = 0.038), (3) previous ipsilateral revascularisation (p < 0.001) and (4) absence of hypertension history (p = 0.041). There was also a trend towards significance for American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade (p = 0.06). Independent variables with log-rank test p values of <0.1 were included in a Cox proportional hazards model. The only variable with a statistically significant impact on primary patency rates was previous open or endovascular ipsilateral revascularisation (HR 2.44 (1.04–5.7), p = 0.04).Conclusion:At 1-year follow-up, previous ipsilateral revascularisation was the most significant factor in affecting patency rates. Patients in this subgroup should therefore be deemed high-risk, which should be reflected in the informed consent and peri-operative management.

Pre-procedural color duplex ultrasound evaluation predicts restenosis after long-segment superficial femoral artery stenting.

Restenosis after stenting for superficial femoral artery atherosclerotic disease remains a significant clinical problem, especially for long-segment lesions. We assessed predictors of in-stent restenosis in patients with long-segment superficial femoral artery disease and hypothesized that pre-procedural ultrasound assessment would predict in-stent restenosis. This single-center study retrospectively analyzed 283 limbs in 243 patients who treated with superficial femoral artery nitinol stent placement for long-segment (≥15 cm) lesions between 2015 and 2018. Color duplex ultrasound was performed pre-procedure and post-procedure at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. The endpoint was ≥50% in-stent restenosis in the superficial femoral artery. Primary patency rates were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and compared using the log-rank test. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the risk factors for in-stent restenosis. The median length of lesions was 25.8 ± 8.1 cm. The cumulative freedom from ≥50% in-stent restenosis at 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months was 95.3%, 78.3%, 56.0%, 30.6%, and 15.9%, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that cumulative lesion length ≥ 25 cm (hazard ratio 1.681; p = 0.003), calcified plaque (hazard ratio 1.549, p = 0.006), poor runoff scores >10 (hazard ratio 1.870, p = 0.003), and chronic renal failure (hazard ratio 2.075, p = 0.009) were independent risk factors for in-stent restenosis. The agreement rate between ultrasound and angiography was 92.6% for cumulative lesion length (κ 0.851) and 91.9% for runoff score (κ 0.872). The results indicate that pre-procedural color duplex ultrasound evaluation is helpful for the selection of appropriate candidates for superficial femoral artery stent placement. Cumulative lesion length ≥25 cm, plaque calcification, poor distal runoff, and chronic renal failure independently predicted in-stent restenosis.

Society for Vascular Surgery femoral runoff score is associated with limb-based patency after aortofemoral bypass

ObjectiveDespite advancements, aortofemoral bypass (AFB) remains the most durable option for aortoiliac occlusive disease. Although runoff has been shown to be associated with AFB patency, the association of the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) thigh runoff scoring system with patency has not been assessed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between the SVS runoff scoring system and limb-based primary patency after AFB. MethodsInstitutional data for patients undergoing AFB with preoperative runoff imaging available from 2000 to 2017 were queried. Runoff scores were assigned according to the presence of occlusive disease in the superficial femoral artery and profunda femoris artery (minimum, 1; maximum, 10) as described by the 1997 SVS reporting standards for lower extremity ischemia. Limb-based patency was the primary endpoint. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare the long-term limb-based patency and freedom from reintervention between limbs with runoff scores ≥6 and those with runoff scores <6. Propensity score-weighted Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to evaluate the association between a runoff score of ≥6 and primary patency loss, controlling for other factors associated with primary patency. ResultsIn 161 patients, 316 limbs had undergone revascularization. The mean patient age was 66.7 ± 11.3 years, and 51.6% were women. Most limbs had undergone revascularization for claudication (56.5%). Most (89.4%) had TransAtlantic InterSociety Consensus class D lesions, 27.3% had required suprarenal or higher clamping, and 11.2% had undergone concomitant mesenteric intervention. A femoral outflow adjunct and concurrent lower extremity bypass was required in 41.8% and 2.9% of limbs, respectively. Those with a runoff score of ≥6 had experienced greater rates of 30-day myocardial infarction (11% vs 1%; P = .005), respiratory failure (11% vs 1%; P = .005), and mortality (8% vs 0%; P ≤ .006). The median follow-up period was 4.0 years (interquartile range, 6.5 years). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year primary patency was 94.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 91.9%-97.3%), 89.2% (95% CI, 85.4%-93.2%), and 81.4% (95% CI, 76.0%-87.1%), respectively. The 5-year primary-assisted patency, secondary patency, and freedom from reintervention were 84.9% (95% CI, 79.7%-90.5%), 91.7% (95% CI, 87.3%-96.3%), and 83.3% (95% CI, 78.3%-88.7%), respectively. Patients with a runoff score of ≥6 had lower primary (log-rank P < .01), primary-assisted (P < .01), and secondary patency (P = .01). The factors associated with the loss of primary patency included a high runoff score (runoff score of ≥6: hazard ratio [HR], 4.1; 95% CI, 2.1-8.0; P < .01), simultaneous mesenteric endarterectomy (HR, 13.5; 95% CI, 1.9-97.8; P = .01), and chronic kidney disease (HR, 4.6; 95% CI, 1.5-14.6; P = .01). Increasing age (HR, 0.94 per year; 95% CI, 0.91-0.97; P < .01) and hyperlipidemia (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.23-0.85; P = .01) were protective. ConclusionsThe SVS femoral runoff score is an important factor associated with long-term AFB limb patency. Scores of ≥6 portend for worse limb outcomes and a greater incidence of operative complications. The SVS score can be determined from preoperative axial imaging studies and serve as a guide in decision-making and operative planning.

Targeted tibio-peroneal re-entry during subintimal revascularization using the Outback\xae catheter

BackgroundRe-entry devices are used regularly in subintimal recanalization of chronic occlusions of the iliac and femoro-popliteal arteries and significantly contribute to the high success rate of these interventions. However, the use in tibio-peroneal arteries has only been described in few cases so far. The present work is a retrospective evaluation of the Outback® re-entry device for gaining targeted true lumen access at the level of the tibio-peroneal arteries.MethodsFrom 9/2017 until 10/2020 the Outback® catheter was used in case of failed spontaneous re-entry at the level of the tibio-peroneal arteries in 14 patients either instead of the usual retrograde approach via a pedal/distal-crural access (n = 11) or in combination with it (n = 3). Baseline demographic and clinical data, morphologic characteristics of the occlusions, procedural succedss, as well as the Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS) runoff score before and after revascularization were documented.ResultsAll patients (median age: 78 years; range: 66–93) suffered from peripheral artery occlusive disease Rutherford stage 4 to 6 with a median lesion length of 12 cm (range: 7–35). Technical and procedural success was achieved in all 14 patients. The mean re-entry accuracy was 0.25 cm (range: 0–0.8). The SVS runoff score improved from a median of 14.5 (interquartile range IQR: 10.8–16.4) to 7 (IQR: 6.3–7) (p < 0.01).ConclusionsThe use of the Outback® catheter for targeted tibio-peroneal re-entry is associated with a high technical and procedural success rate and should be considered in case of otherwise failed ante- and retrograde recanalization.

Quick evaluation of lower leg ischemia in patients with peripheral arterial disease by time maximum intensity projection CT angiography: a pilot study

BackgroundThe purpose of this study is to evaluate a new method involving time maximum intensity projection (t-MIP) postprocessed from dynamic computed tomographic angiography (dyn-CTA) in diagnosing peripheral arterial disease (PAD).MethodsA population of 34 patients with known PAD was examined with a combined CTA protocol consisting of a standard CTA (s-CTA) scan of the lower extremities and a dyn-CTA scan of the calves. For each lower leg, t-MIP images consisting of the MIP0 (sagittal MIP), MIP+θ (45° lateral MIP), and MIP−θ (− 45° lateral MIP) were automatically generated from dyn-CTA. An objective evaluation of the vascular CT attenuation of the best enhancement phase of dyn-CTA and t-MIP was measured; a subjective evaluation of vessel stenosis and occlusion was performed, assigning a score for t-MIP and s-CTA. The CT attenuation of t-MIP and dyn-CTA was compared, as were the runoff scores of t-MIP and s-CTA.ResultsThe CT attenuation of t-MIP CTA of three vascular segments from 68 lower extremities was higher than that of the best enhancement phase of dyn-CTA and s-CTA, with statistically significant differences at the posterior tibial artery and fibular artery (all p < 0.05). There were strong correlations (r ≥ 0.75, p < 0.05) of the runoff scores between t-MIP and s-CTA.ConclusionsThere is potential clinical applicability of t-MIP in assisting with the diagnosis of lower leg vascular stenosis in dyn-CTA with reliable diagnostic accuracy and convenient immediacy.

Significance of Distal Runoff Score as a Key Influencer on Clinical Outcomes after Endovascular Interventions for Superficial Femoral Artery Disease

Endovascular therapy (EVT) is being adopted by many surgeons as a suitable first choice in the treatment of most femoropopliteal disease when clinically indicated. However, there are multiple factors affecting the outcome of EVT including the anatomy of lesions and distal runoff status. The evidence of runoff effect on the outcome of superficial femoral artery (SFA) interventions is still scarce and not well studied in the current literature. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of runoff score on the outcomes of SFA endovascular interventions. Retrospective analysis was carried out on prospectively collected data on patients who underwent SFA endovascular intervention for critical limb ischemia (CLI) in a single tertiary center. Patients with Rutherford categories 4, 5, and 6 who did not have any previous vascular interventions were included in the study. The modified SVS runoff score was used after calculating scores from popliteal and all tibial vessels. Runoff was stratified into good (score <5), compromised (score 5-10), and poor (score >10). Amputation-free survival, patency rates, and overall survival were compared between all groups at 5 years. Between 2011 and 2018, 254 procedures were performed in 220 patients. Technical success was >92%; 66 patients required SFA stents, and 55 had concomitant tibial angioplasty. There was no significant difference between good, compromised, or poor runoff groups regarding complication rates, with 3.5% overall perioperative mortality (5 cases in the compromised group and 4 in the poor runoff group). A runoff score of <5 was associated with significantly marked clinical improvement (P<0.001). Patency rates were significantly worse in the compromised and poor runoff groups, with 5-year cumulative primary patency rates of 80%, 50%, and 22% in the good, compromised, and poor runoff groups, respectively (P<0.001). Amputation-free survival worsened as the runoff got poorer with 98%, 91%, and 78% in the good, compromised, and poor runoff groups, respectively, at 5 years (P<0.001). SFA stenting and concomitant tibial angioplasty led to slight improvement in patency rates in the poor runoff group. Poor runoff with a score of >10 was associated with significantly reduced amputation-free survival and patency rates at 5 years in patients undergoing SFA endovascular intervention for CLI. Patients with a runoff score of <5 showed marked clinical improvement postoperatively when compared with patients with a runoff score of ≥5.

Influence of Infrapopliteal Runoff Vessels on Primary Patency after Superficial Femoral Artery Angioplasty with Stenting in Patients with Claudication.

PurposeThe number of infrapopliteal runoff vessels seems to be one of the factors influencing arterial patency in patients who had undergone superficial femoral artery (SFA) angioplasty with stenting. However, the effectiveness of infrapopliteal runoff vessels in predicting patency during SFA angioplasty remains unclear. This study aimed to determine whether the number and quality of infrapopliteal runoff vessels affect the primary patency after SFA angioplasty with stenting in patients with claudication.MethodsMaterials and This study reviewed a retrospective database of patients with claudication who underwent SFA angioplasty with stenting between March 2011 and December 2016. The preoperative computed tomography findings of all patients were reviewed to assess infrapopliteal runoff vessels. The Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society (TASC) II classification and modified Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) runoff score were used for subsequent analysis. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were constructed, and Fisher’s exact and chi-square tests were used for data analysis.ResultsA total of 153 limbs of 122 patients (88.2% male, mean age: 69.1 years) underwent SFA angioplasty with stenting. The overall primary patency rates of TASC II A/B and C/D cases were 77.1% and 31.2%, respectively, at 36 months (P<0.001). The primary patency rates at 36 months using the modified SVS runoff scoring system were 64.6% and 49.8% for the good-to-compromised (≤9 points) and poor (≥10 points) runoff groups, respectively (P=0.011).ConclusionThe modified SVS runoff scoring system is effective in predicting primary patency after SFA angioplasty with stenting in patients treated for claudication.

Comparison Between Below Knee Contrast Enhanced Tomographic 3D Ultrasound and CT, MR or Catheter Angiography for Peripheral Artery Imaging

Clear imaging of below knee and foot arteries is essential to plan distal reconstructions. Contrast enhanced tomographic 3D ultrasound (CEtUS) is novel and entirely safe with no exposure to ionising radiation or nephrotoxic contrast. In the present study, inter- and intra-observer agreement of CEtUS was calculated, and compared with below knee angiography. In the same week as computed tomography, magnetic resonance or catheter angiography, CEtUS was performed using intravenous 1.2mL bolus injections of Sonovue with a maximum of 5mL administered per patient. CEtUS was reported by a vascular scientist blinded to the angiograms reported by a consultant radiologist. Images were compared using a modified Society of Vascular Surgery (SVS) runoff score. Of the 181 patients recruited with peripheral arterial disease, 20 were excluded from analysis as they withdrew consent, could not be cannulated, or their images were non-diagnostic. In the remaining 161 patients, there were 175 comparative patient images split into two groups: 81 had calf imaging and 94 had pedal imaging representing 405 and 198 imaged arteries, respectively. Weighted quadratic kappa/ICC values for intra- and inter-observer agreement were excellent (κ/ICC=0.83 to 0.95) and had narrow confidence intervals in both groups. When comparing angiography and CEtUS, weighted quadratic κ/ICC agreement was moderate with acceptable confidence intervals in both groups (Calf κ/ICC=0.54; Pedal κ/ICC=0.53). Agreement decreased from popliteal to pedal vessels as diameter decreased. Agreement between CEtUS and digital subtraction angiography was best, and computed tomography angiography the weakest. CEtUS is a novel imaging modality with strong observer agreement that achieves clear peripheral and foot images without ionising radiation exposure or nephrotoxic X-ray contrast media. CEtUS enhances visualisation of runoff vessels, which may play a role in planning of limb salvage or targeted assessment.

Study on the relationship between the extent of runoff lesions under the knee and the patency of femoropopliteal artery stent in patients with diabetes

Objective To evaluate the impact of runoff score on the patency of femoropopliteal artery (FPA) stent in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with ultrasonography. Methods A retrospective review of a database of 127 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (127 limbs) undergoing femoropopliteal stents in Xuanwu Hospital from January 2016 to July 2018 was made. Demographic characteristics and possible related risk factors were recorded. The extent of FPA disease and the runoff lesions below the knee (anterior tibial artery, posterior tibial artery, and peroneal artery) were preoperative evaluated and regular followed-up by color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU). Femoropopliteal artery lesions were graded according to the Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASCII), and the runoff lesions below the knee were scored according to the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS). The patency and the predictors for in-stent restenosis were assessed using a Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards model. Results Follow up period ranged from 1 month to 24 months.The total patency rates at the 3, 6, 12, 24 months were 91.5%, 70.9%, 45.7% and 31.7%, respectively. Post-procedural runoff score according to SVS criteria: 1-3 scores in 45 limbs, 3.5-5 scores in 37 limbs, 5.5-7 scores in 34 limbs, 7.5-10 scores in 11 limbs. The median runoff score was 4.Patients were stratified according to runoff scores (score ≤4 and >4 groups), and the difference of the patency rates between the two groups was statistically significant by Kaplan-Meier analysis and Log-rank test (χ2=10.825, P=0.001). The runoff score affected patency significantly on COX analysis (RR=1.155, P=0.006, 95%CI: 1.042-1.281). Conclusions Compromised runoff negatively affects the patency of FPA stent. High post-procedural runoff score is a main risk factor related to loss of patency. CDU is a reliable method for monitoring patients with femoropopliteal stenting. Key words: Ultrasonography; Diabetes; Femoropopliteal artery; Runoff score; Stent