Successful Placement Research Articles

Comparing Ambu AuraGain™ Disposable Laryngeal Mask with i-gel™ as a conduit for fibreoptic guided tracheal intubation for elective surgery under general anaesthesia in adult patients

BackgroundSupraglottic airway devices (SADs) have emerged as an alternative for airway management, serving as conduits for tracheal intubation with fibreoptic bronchoscopy (FOB). In this study, we aim to compare the efficacy of two SADs for FOB guided tracheal intubation in adult patients undergoing elective surgery. Methods120 patients were randomly assigned to two groups Group A (i-gel™) or Group B (Ambu AuraGain™ Disposable Laryngeal Mask). The ease of insertion, time for successful placement, number of attempts, need for manipulation, time for FOB intubation and laryngeal view were recorded. ResultsThe first pass success rate of intubation through either SAD was 100% (p = 1). Group A had a significantly higher ease of insertion score of 1 than Group B (63.33% vs 38.33%, p = 0.003). The time required for successful placement of the device was significantly longer in Group B than in Group A (17.44 ± 5.46 s vs13.62 ± 4.67 s, p = 0.001). The mean ± SD of time for FOB guided intubation(seconds) in group A was 66.59 ± 21.42 which was significantly higher as compared to group B (55.93 ± 19.79) (p value = 0.005). Conclusion: Our study compared i-gel™ and Ambu AuraGain™ for FOB-guided tracheal intubation and found both SADs equally effective with similar laryngeal views. Despite i-gel's superior ease of insertion, shorter time for insertion and fewer airway manipulations for insertion, Ambu AuraGain™ exhibited a shorter intubation time. Incidences of intraoperative and postoperative complications were comparable. Clinicians should choose the SAD based on preference and familiarity.

Impact of psychosocial factors on the success of neuromodulation treatment for patients with persistent pain

IntroductionSignificant interindividual variability in spinal cord stimulation (SCS) outcomes exists. Due to its high cost and risks of complications, criteria to guide patient selection for SCS trials and their outcomes...

Computed tomography anatomic predictors of outcomes in patients undergoing tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair

AimTo identify anatomical computed tomography (CT) predictors of procedural and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER). Methods and resultsConsecutive patients undergoing T-TEER between March 2018 to December 2022 who had cardiac CT prior to the procedure were included. CT scans were automatically analyzed using a dedicated software that employs deep learning techniques to provide precise anatomical measurements and volumetric calculations. Technical success was defined as successful placement of at least one implant in the planned anatomic location without single leaflet device attachment. Procedural success was defined as tricuspid regurgitation reduction to moderate or less. Procedural complexity was assessed by measuring the fluoroscopy time. The clinical endpoint was a composite of death, heart failure hospitalization, or tricuspid re-intervention throughout two years. A total of 33 patients (63.6% male) were included. Procedural success was achieved in 22 patients (66.7%). Shorter end-systolic (ES) height between the inferior vena cava (IVC) and tricuspid annulus (TA) (r ​= ​- 0.398, p ​= ​0.044) and longer ES RV length (r ​= ​0.551, p ​= ​0.006) correlated with higher procedural complexity. ES RV length was independently associated with lower technical(adjusted Odds ratio [OR] 0.812 [95% CI 0.665–0.991], p ​= ​0.040) and procedural success (adjusted OR 0.766, CI [0.591–0.992], p ​= ​0.043). Patients with ES right ventricular (RV) length of >77.4 ​mm had a four-fold increased risk of experiencing the composite clinical endpoint compared to patients with ES RV length ≤77.4 ​mm (HR ​= ​3.964 [95% CI, 1.018–15.434]; p ​= ​0,034]). ConclusionCT-derived RV length and IVC-to-TA height may be helpful to identify patients at increased risk for procedural complexity and adverse outcomes when undergoing T-TEER. CT provides valuable information for preprocedural decision-making and device selection.

Optimal patient positioning for spinal anesthesia using a visual aid in cesarean section patients: A randomized control trial.

Spinal anesthesia is the safest technique of anesthesia in parturients for cesarean section. Usually, patients are instructed verbally to acquire the ideal position for spinal anesthesia, but there can be difficulty in attaining the best position if patients fail to understand the verbal command, which will lead to detainment in accomplishing the technique and increased possibility of patient's dissatisfaction. Hence, in our study, we hypothesized that using photographs with verbal commands would reduce the time taken for spinal needle placement, reduce the total number of skin pricks, and improve the success at the first attempt. One hundred and eleven pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section were divided into Group C (only verbal instructions were given) and Group V (visual aid and verbal instructions were given). Time taken for successful spinal needle placement was noted in seconds and summarized in terms of median and interquartile range. Number of skin punctures, intervertebral spaces attempted, and first-pass success were determined in terms of percentage. Pearson's Chi-square test was used to compare the above parameters between the two groups. There was significant reduction in the time taken for spinal needle placement in Group V compared to the control group. There was significant improvement in first-pass success rate and reduction in the number of skin pricks and intervertebral spaces attempted in Group V. Use of visual aid with verbal commands helps in better understanding of positioning, thus improving the first-pass success significantly. It also reduces the duration for successful spinal needle placement, number of skin pricks, and intervertebral spaces attempted.

Multisegmented esophageal fully covered self-expandable metal stent for palliation of malignant dysphagia: a prospective, multicenter feasibility and safety study

A novel multisegmented esophageal fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) was designed to reduce stent migration, which is seen in up to 30% of patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the multisegmented FCSEMS. This multicenter prospective study aimed to include 30 patients undergoing palliative stent placement. Efficacy, defined as technically successful stent placement and dysphagia scores, and safety, defined as the number of adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs (SAEs), were measured. The study was prematurely terminated due to safety concerns after including 23 patients (mean ± standard deviation age, 72 ± 10 years; 78% male). Stent placement was technically successful in 21 patients (91%), and dysphagia scores had improved in all patients with successful stent placement. SAEs were reported in 16 (70%) patients. Stent-related mortality occurred in 3 patients (13%). The multisegmented FCSEMS successfully treated malignant dysphagia. The study was prematurely terminated, however, because stent placement was associated with a relatively high SAE rate. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04415463.).

More With Less: Single-Incision Sling Insertion Techniques

To demonstrate reproducible procedures for efficient single-incision sling insertion and troubleshooting. Narrated video footage with stepwise demonstration of single-incision sling insertion technique with anchor system. The mesh midurethral sling is a highly effective and safe procedure that is considered the gold standard for surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence. Retropubic and transobturator approaches for midurethral slings have similar subjective cure rates with differing surgical risk profiles [1,2]. The retropubic route has a higher risk of injury to the bladder, nerves, and vascular structures, whereas the obturator approach carries a risk of groin or thigh pain [3-5]. Use of a single-incision sling decreases these risks and allows flexibility to perform the procedure without sedation or general anesthesia. Recent literature demonstrates similar subjective and objective success and safety of single-incision slings compared with both retropubic and transobturator approaches, although long-term data are forthcoming [5]. We demonstrate a stepwise approach for the insertion of a single-incision sling using a helical trocar. Easily reproducible procedures for setup and sling anchor management allow for efficient placement without assistance. In addition, we outline hand positioning, trocar management, and anchor deployment with troubleshooting techniques for potential placement difficulties. Finally, we review methods for sling tensioning to prevent complications such as voiding dysfunction and mesh or suture exposures. Given that single-incision slings are more likely to be performed under local anesthesia and are less invasive with decreased recovery time, it has the potential to become the preferred approach in the future. This video demonstrates clear and detailed steps to facilitate successful placement of the single-incision mesh midurethral sling.

Comparison of Pressure Control Ventilation and Palpation Methods to Protect the Endotracheal Tube Cuff During Tracheotomy: A Manikin Simulation Study.

Objective This study aims to evaluate and compare the suitability and safety of palpation and pressure control ventilation (PCV) methods for the accurate positioning of an endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff. Methods We conducted a pilot simulation randomized crossover study using a medical manikin. Twenty junior resident physicians who had completed anesthesiology training participated in the study. Airway management was performed using a modified manikin designed to simulate palpation and PCV methods. Participants performed both methods in a randomized order. The primary outcome was the number of successful ETT placements. The secondary outcomes were procedure duration and the perceived difficulty of each procedure. Results Five successful procedures were observed in the palpation method group (PALG), while 19 were observed in the PCV method group (PCVG). The duration of the trial was 98 s (standard deviation [SD], 41) in the PALG and 93 s (SD, 49) in the PCVG. The visual analog scale score for difficulty encountered during the trial was 30 (SD, 21) in the PALG and 69 (SD, 19) in the PCVG. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the PCV method had a higher success rate than the palpation method. Thus, the PCV method may be more suitable for inexperienced physicians to perform the procedure with greater confidence.

Feasibility of a novel type of complex anterior cervical fixation by using Mimics software

To investigate the feasibility of mimics software in analyzing a new type of complex anterior cervical fixation -- anterior transpedicular screw fixation+zero notch internal fixation. From January 2021 to September 2022, 50 normal pedestrians who underwent cervical spine CT scanning were selected for C1-C7 segment scanning, including 27 males and 23 females, aged from 25 to 65 years old with an average of (46.0 ± 9.0) years old. The dicom format is exported and engraved into the CD, and use the mimics software to perform 3D reconstruction of each segment. A simulated screw is placed on the image according to the critical value of zero notch screw (head and tail angle 44°, internal angle 29°). The position of zero notch screw in each segment is observed to determine the feasibility of anterior transpedicular screw fixation plus zero notch internal fixation. For the upper zero notch screws the three-dimensional images of the cervical spine across all 50 subjects within the C3-C7 segments demonstrated safe position, with no instances of intersection with ATPS. For the lower zero notch screw, in C3-C4 and C4-C5, 4 out of 50 subjects are in the safe position in the three-dimensional images of cervical vertebrae, and 46 cases could achieve secure screw placement when the maximum caudal angle is(32.3±1.9) ° and (36.1±2.2) °, respectively. In C5-C6 and C6-C7 segments, no lower zero notch screws intersected with ATPS, and all screws are in safe positions. Lower cervical anterior pedicle screw fixation plus zero notch internal fixation can achieve successful nail placement through the selected entry point and position.

Determinants of Accuracy of Freehand, EVD Placement by Neurosurgical Trainees.

Background: The insertion of an external ventricular drain (EVD) is a fundamental neurosurgical procedure predominantly performed by junior neurosurgical trainees. It is vital for managing conditions like hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, traumatic brain injury, and others. The procedure's success heavily relies on the precise identification of anatomical landmarks and the trainee's experience. Objective: This study aims to assess the precision and safety of EVD placement in patients treated by first-year (R1) and second-year (R2) neurosurgical residents, evaluating the impact of the residents' experience levels on the outcomes of the procedure. Methods: Conducted at the Neurosurgery Department of Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Center, Karachi, from February to July 2022, this prospective cohort study involved individuals aged 18 years or older undergoing EVD placement for hydrocephalus. Exclusion criteria included patients with more than 5mm midline shift on initial scans or those without a post-EVD placement scan. Procedures were performed under senior resident supervision, with postoperative CT scans assessing catheter tip placement and potential complications. Statistical analyses utilized IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0, with Student’s t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher exact tests applied as appropriate. Results: The study comprised 152 patients (mean age: 39.4 ± 10.7 years; 52.6% male). The initial GCS scores varied, with 44.7% scoring above 8. Most EVD placements (60.5%) were by residents in their fourth or fifth year. The average procedure duration was 43 ± 8.7 minutes, with an average of 1.44 ± 0.12 passes. Optimal placement (Kakarla Grade 1) was achieved in 59.2% of cases, with significant differences in placement accuracy between R1 and R2 residents (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the significant role of experience and training in the successful placement of EVDs. The higher accuracy rates in more experienced residents underscore the need for enhanced training programs for junior neurosurgical trainees, focusing on anatomical landmark identification and procedural practice.

Use of Polyurethane-Covered Stents for Exclusion of Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations.

To evaluate the safety, technical success and short-term effectiveness of polyurethane-covered stent (PK Papyrus, BioTronik, Berlin) in the treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) that are not amenable to embolotherapy. In this IRB-approved, retrospective study, data from patients who received polyurethane-covered stents for exclusion of PAVMs were analyzed. The study included 5 patients (all women) with a median age of 40years (range 25-60). Patients presented with hypoxemia, TIAs, and/or epistaxis; 4 were confirmed to have HHT. All had multiple PAVMs diagnosed on chest CT and underwent embolization with other devices in addition to the polyurethane-covered stent. The indication for stent placement in all cases was a short and/or tortuous feeding artery. Safety was assessed by immediate or short-term complications, e.g., migration, stent thrombosis, and fracture. Technical success was defined as the ability to accurately place the stent at the intended location. Effectiveness was defined as successful exclusion of PAVM with no perfusion across the AVM. Technical success of stent placement was 100%. AVM exclusion rate was 80% after single stent deployment; in the case of incomplete exclusion, success was achieved using an overlapping stent to completely cover a second feeding artery. During the median follow-up period of 5months (range 2-10), all stents remained patent, and AVMs were excluded without other complications. Exclusion of PAVMs with polyurethane-covered stents is technically feasible, safe, and shows short-term effectiveness for PAVMs with a short/tortuous feeding artery when traditional embolization techniques are not possible.

Is Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Nephrostomy Efficacious and Safe in Pregnant Patients?: A Single Center Experience

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) placement in pregnancy. Method: Medical records of 26 pregnant patients who were inserted with a total of 27 PCN catheters between June 2020 to June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed to assess imaging findings, procedural parameters, technical success, delivery outcomes, and procedural complications. Results: At the time of placement of the PCN, the mean gestational age was 29.04±7.01 weeks (range 7 - 36 weeks). The indications for insertion of the PCN catheter included: 1) obstructing calculi (46.2%), 2) pyelonephritis (34.6%), and 3) symptomatic hydronephrosis without calculi (19.2%). Successful catheter placement was achieved in 25/27 procedures, yielding a success rate of 92.59%, and no major complications. Minor instances of transient hematuria were encountered in three cases. The mean duration of catheter retention was 72.58 days. All patients exhibited significant clinical and symptomatic improvement. Among these patients, 22 patients (84.6%) delivered their babies at full-term, 3 patients (11.5%) delivered prematurely, and 1 patient (3.8%) experienced a miscarriage. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided PCN placement is a reliable method with high success and efficacy that can be applied during pregnancy. This procedure avoids the use of ionizing radiation, ensuring safety for both the fetus and the mother.

The effect of distal ureteral lateralization angle on ureteral trauma avoidance and successful ureteral access sheath placement.

The use of ureteral access sheaths (UAS), which offer advantages in flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (fURL), may lead to undesirable conditions such as ureteral injury, ischemia, and prolonged ureteral stenosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the distal ureteral lateralization angle on successful UAS placement. We analyzed the data of patients who underwent fURL for kidney and/or proximal ureteral stones retrospectively. Based on the preoperative computed tomographic examinations of the patients, the bladder outlet was considered the zero point. We calculated the angle values between the horizontal axis passing through this point and the most lateralized point of the distal ureter. The patients were divided into two groups: those to whom UAS was successfully placed and those to whom UAS placement failed. No significant difference was detected between the groups with successful UAS placement (n=36) and those without UAS placement (n=12) in terms of sex, laterality, localization, number of stones, stone burden, and bladder volumes evaluated with preoperative computed tomography (p>0.05). However, a significant difference was found between the two groups regarding age and distal ureteral lateralization angle (p<0.001, p=0.013). The distal ureteral lateralization angle is considered to be an effective factor in the placement of UAS in patients scheduled for fURS.

Brainstorming and Fishbone diagram Tools for Enhancing the Student Placement in Technical Education System

Increased engineering colleges and unemployment have raised critical issues of quality for sustaining invisible competition all around the globe. In the olden days, higher education success was truly measured based on the performance (ability to apply knowledge and skills in resolving problems) of graduates in industries, which in turn ranked the colleges. In recent years, campus placement for engineering students has been treated as an institution’s responsibility, and the institute, upon successful job placement and average salary offered for the academic year. Since there are many engineering colleges, the reputed companies select to conduct placement drives for those institutes whose courses/programs have been accredited by quality assessment bodies. The accreditation to engineering institutions and their performance are tested for different attributes such as admission, teaching-learning process, infrastructure, curriculum and examination, placement, and career. Placement and carrier could directly or indirectly affect the other qualities and hence their improvement being the major concern to many engineering colleges. Brainstorming technique is first applied to know the possible methods for enhancing placement of students. The fishbone diagram is a standard way of representing in a more structured and precise manner that helps to identify the root causes that affect the graduate outcome, institution’s quality, which in turn is the placement of students. The generic framework module is defined for enhancing the placement of students with the help of brainstorming and the fishbone diagram tool.

Femoral Stem Placement for Total Hip Arthroplasty Using Three-Dimensional Custom Surgical Guides in Dogs: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and accuracy of femoral stem placement for total hip arthroplasty (THA) using three-dimensional (3D)-printed custom surgical guides (CSGs). Study Design Computed tomography (CT) scans of 7 cadaveric adult medium-sized (23.2–30.0 kg) dog femurs were acquired. A virtual plan was made using 3D models, and CSGs were designed to aid in optimal femoral stem positioning. Two surgeons with limited experience in THA performed stem implantation with CSGs for each limb. Following stem implantation, CT scans were repeated, and final stem alignment was measured and then compared with the preoperative virtual plan. Results The median difference between planned and postoperative stem alignment with CSGs was –6.2 degrees (interquartile [IQR] –15.2 to 2.1 degrees) for stem version, 2.3 degrees (IQR –0.6 to 3.9 degrees) for varus/valgus angulation, and 1.8 degrees (IQR –0.1 to 2.9 degrees) for cranial/caudal stem angulation. The median difference in stem depth was 1.5 mm (IQR –1.2 to 3.1). Mean surgical procedure time for CSG surgeries was 44.1 ± 20.5 minutes for femoral stem implantation. Conclusion The use of CSGs resulted in successful femoral stem placement by two novice THA surgeons. Novice THA surgeons may benefit from CSGs in the learning stages of THA, but further investigation is recommended prior to clinical implementation.

Effect of perioperative tamsulosin on successful ureteral access sheath placement and stent-related symptom relief: A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

This study investigated the effect of administering tamsulosin before surgery on the successful insertion of a 12/14 French (F) ureteral access sheath (UAS) during the procedure, as well as the impact of preoperative and postoperative tamsulosin use on symptoms related to the ureteral stent. This study was a randomized, single-center, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial involving 200 patients who underwent unilateral retrograde intrarenal surgery. Patients received either tamsulosin (0.4 mg) or placebo 1 week before surgery until stent removal. Patients were randomly assigned to one of four groups. Group 1 received tamsulosin throughout the study period. Group 2 received tamsulosin before surgery and placebo after surgery. Group 3 received placebo before surgery and tamsulosin after surgery. Group 4 received placebo before and after surgery. The USSQ (Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire) was completed between postoperative days 7 and 14 immediately before stent removal. A total of 160 patients were included in this analysis. Their mean age was 55.0±11.0 years, and 48 patients (30.0%) were female. In the group that received preoperative tamsulosin, the success rate of 12/14F UAS deployment was significantly higher than that of the preoperative placebo group (88.0 vs. 75.3%, p=0.038). Preoperative and postoperative tamsulosin did not significantly alleviate symptoms related to the ureteral stent. Our results revealed that preoperative administration of tamsulosin improved the success of larger-sized UAS, whereas preoperative and postoperative tamsulosin use did not significantly alleviate symptoms related to ureteral stents.

Innovation of 6-sulfonamide-2H-chromene derivatives as antidiabetic agents targeting α-amylase, α-glycosidase, and PPAR-γ inhibitors with in silico molecular docking simulation.

A new series of 2-imino or 2-oxo-2H-chromene-6-sulfonamide derivatives 2-9 with potential anti-diabetic activity were designed and synthesized. The new 6-sulfonamide chromenes were synthesized by reacting 3-formyl-4-hydroxybenzenesulfonyl chloride with activated methylene derivatives in the presence of ammonium acetate as a catalyst. The structure of the products was confirmed by spectroscopic analysis. All the designed derivatives 2-9 were evaluated for their activity against α-amylase and exhibited inhibitory percentage values higher than 93% at 100 μg mL-1. Additionally, the IC50 values represented a variable degree of activity with two derivatives 2 and 9 exhibiting the most promising derivative results with IC50 values of 1.76 ± 0.01 and 1.08 ± 0.02 μM, respectively, compared to Acarbose (IC50 = 0.43 ± 0.01 μM). Additionally, these derivatives showed potency against the α-glucosidase enzyme with IC50 values of 0.548 ± 0.02 and 2.44 ± 0.09 μg mL-1, compared to Acarbose (0.604 ± 0.02 μg mL-1). Moreover, the in vitro PPAR-γ transactivation assay revealed that chromene-6-sulfonamide derivatives 2 and 9 exhibited potential PPAR-γ activity with IC50 values of 3.152 ± 0.03 and 3.706 ± 0.32 μg mL-1, respectively, compared to Pioglitazone (4.884 ± 0.29 μg mL-1). This indicates that these derivatives have insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism activity. The in silico ADMET prediction showed that these derivatives have an acceptable range of oral bioavailability, drug-likeness, and a safe toxicity profile, including being non-cytotoxic, non-mutagenic, non-immunotoxic, and non-carcinogenic. Finally, computational docking analysis demonstrated the ability of these derivatives to interact with α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and PPAR-γ enzymes, with confirmed successful placement due to good binding energy values and various interactions within the pocket.

Environmental factors of sustainable development in China and Hong Kong

This article discusses China has become the second largest issuer of green bonds in the world after the United States. The authors carried out an analysis The Green Bond Index shows relatively good results due to its long–term outlook and high creditworthiness, as well as related industry factors. In recent years, China’s green bond market has developed rapidly and has now become the second largest green bond market in the world after the United States. Understanding the reasons that contributed to the growth and excellent market performance can help investors determine whether to include Chinese green bonds in their investment portfolios and how. The Hong Kong government has announced the successful placement of tokenized “green” bonds in the amount of HK$ 800 million (about $101.7 million). A press release from the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) states that this is the world's first tokenized “green” bond issued by the government. "Green" bonds are debt securities that are issued to attract investment in projects related to improving the environmental situation. The issue of tokens was made by HSBC bank on a private blockchain. Subsequent payments of coupon income, settlements on transactions on the secondary market and redemption of bonds will also be carried out in digital form. For the tokenization of bonds, the Goldman Sachs GS DAP bank platform was used, and settlements on bonds are carried out by the Central Clearing System for Debt Instruments (CMU) HKMA. Tokenization of “green” bonds with a yield of 4.05% and a maturity of 1 year is one of the pilot projects announced by the Hong Kong government as part of the virtual asset market development plan.

Feasibility and Challenges of Transradial Approach in Neuroendovascular Therapy: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Transradial approach (TRA) is increasingly used as a viable alternative to the traditional transfemoral approach (TFA) in neuroendovascular therapy (NET) owing to its potential anatomical benefits and lower puncture-site complication rates. However, the real-world challenges of implementing TRA-NET have not been thoroughly studied, particularly those related to guide catheter (GC) placement. In this study, we aimed to explore the feasibility and challenges of TRA-NET, with a specific focus on GC placement. This retrospective observational study included patients who underwent NET at our institution between December 2019 and May 2022. Procedural success was defined as the successful placement of a GC in the target vessel. Cases in which a Simmons-shaped GC was used or the approach was changed to TFA were classified as difficult. Safety was assessed based on the rate of severe puncture-site complications requiring either blood transfusion or surgical intervention. Among the 310 patients who underwent NET during the study period, 222 (71.6%) with a median age of 74 years were selected for TRA-NET. The target vessel was in the left anterior circulation (LtAC) in 101 (45.5%) patients, and 8-F GCs were the most frequently used (40.1%). TRA-NET achieved a 95.0% success rate, with a switch to TFA required in 5.0% of the cases. Procedural challenges occurred in 42 (18.9%) patients, primarily in those with LtAC lesions. Specifically, a type III aortic arch (p <0.0001) and age ≥80 years (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with procedural difficulties. Radial artery evaluation was confirmed in 66 cases (29.7%), revealing one instance (1.5%) of radial artery occlusion. No severe puncture-site complications were observed. TRA-NET may provide substantial therapeutic benefits without significant limitations in device use. However, it may be challenging, particularly in older patients and those with a type III aortic arch with LtAC lesions. Consequently, careful selection of the approach route is imperative.

Safety and Efficacy of Aspiration Catheter CAT6 and 5 Fr Navien in the Endovascular Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke.

Mechanical thrombectomy has become a key treatment option for acute ischemic stroke. This study compared the safety and efficacy of aspiration catheter CAT6 and 5 Fr Navien. Thrombectomy was performed in103 patients with the acute internal carotid artery, middle cerebral artery M1 or M2 occlusions, including the CAT6 group (n=53 with stent retriever and CAT6 aspiration) and the 5 Fr Navien group (n=50 with stent retriever and 5 Fr Navien aspiration) at the Advanced Stroke Center. Overall, an aspiration catheter placement success rate was achieved in 93.2% of cases, 52 (98.11%) for CAT6, and 44 (88.00%) for 5 Fr Navien ( P =0.042). Overall, 17 cases (16.51%) required additional guidewire rates, 5.66% for CAT6, and 13.592% for 5 Fr Navien ( P =0.002). First-pass success rate (FPSR) was achieved in 38.84% of cases overall, a rate that did not differ significantly between catheters: 45.28% for CAT6; 32.00% for 5 Fr Navien ( P =0.167). Final thrombolysis in cerebral infarction 2b or 3 reperfusion was achieved in 91.26% of cases overall, 51 (96.23%) for CAT6, and 43 (86%) for 5 Fr Navien ( P =0.066). The participants had a mean number of passes for the index thrombus of 1.956 and a median procedure time of 65.82±21.8 minutes. There was no significant difference found in 90-day good outcome (mean 42.7%, modified Rankin Score 0 to 2) and 90-day mortality (17%) between CAT6 and 5 Fr Navien. Aspiration catheter placement success rate and first-pass success rate seemed to be higher for CAT6 and, moreover, the rate of additional guidewires was lower.

Introduction of transcatheter edge-to-edge repair in patients with congenital heart disease at a children's hospital.

Atrioventricular valve regurgitation (AVVR) is a devastating complication in children and young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD), particularly in patients with single ventricle physiology. Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is a rapidly expanding, minimally invasive option for the treatment of AVVR in adults that avoids the morbidity and mortality associated with open heart surgery. However, application of TEER in in CHD and in children is quite novel. We describe the development of a peri-procedural protocol including image-derived pre-intervention simulation, with successful application to four patients. To describe the initial experience using the MitraClip system for TEER of dysfunctional systemic atrioventricular valves in patients with congential heart disease within a pediatric hospital. A standardized screening and planning process was developed using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, three dimensional echocardiography and both virtual and physical simulation. Procedures were performed using the MitraClip G4 system and patients were clinically followed post-intervention. A series of fourCHD patients with at least severe AVVR were screened for suitability for TEER with the MitraClip system: three patients had single ventricle physiology and Fontan palliation, and one had repair of a common atrioventricular canal defect. Each patient had at least severe systemic AVVR and was considered at prohibitively high risk for surgical repair. Each patient underwent a standardized preprocedural screening protocol and image-derived modeling followed by the TEER procedure with successful clip placement at the intended location in all cases. The early results of our protocolized efforts to introduce TEER repair of severe AV valve regurgitation with MitraClip into the CHD population within our institution are encouraging. Further investigations of the use of TEER in this challenging population are warranted.