Technical Outcomes Research Articles

Outcomes of Endovascular Treatment for Salvaging Failed Hemodialysis Arteriovenous Fistula – Role of Balloon Angioplasty as Initial Therapy

Background: This study aims to evaluate the technical and clinical outcomes of endovascular treatment for failed native hemodialysis fistulas, mainly the role of balloon angioplasty in salvaging thrombosed and stenosed arteriovenous fistulas. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was done on 23 patients who had presented with non-functioning dialysis fistulas. The mean age of the patients was 58.7 ± 2.3 years. The cause of failure was thrombosis in 14 cases (61%) and stenosis in 9 cases (39%). All patients initially underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), followed by thromboaspiration depending on the thrombus load and extent. Results: A total of 27 salvage procedures were performed on 23 patients. Technical success was achieved in 24 procedures (88.8%), and clinical success was 81.5%. Patients were followed up for mean duration of 9.5 months (range: 1–19 months). Eight out of 23 accesses initially revised failed again due to repeat thrombosis, of which four patients underwent repeat procedures. The mean duration to re-intervention was 5.5 ± 1.3 months. The primary patency rates were 79% at 3 months and 60% at 6, 12, and 18 months. The cumulative (secondary) patency rates were 73% at 6 months and 66% at 12 and 18 months. Minor complications were seen in three procedures (11%), which included venous extravasation in two cases and prolonged bleeding from puncture site in one case. Conclusion: Percutaneous balloon angioplasty can be used as first-line procedure in failed hemodialysis fistulas, in both cases of stenosis and/or thrombosis, followed by thromboaspiration if required.

Application of the Self Organized Learning Environment Learning Model in Mathematics Learning Arithmetic Sequence Material

The objective of this study is to analyze the disparities in the mean learning achievements between students who utilize the SOLE learning model and those who employ the direct learning model for arithmetic sequence material at Tondano State Vocational School. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a Posttest Only Control Group Design. The participants in this study consisted of students from class X OTKP 1, who were assigned to the experimental group, and students from class X OTKP 2, who were assigned to the control group. The data gathering method involved administering a technical learning outcomes test at the conclusion of the class (Posttest). The data analysis technique employed in this research utilizes tests on data that has undergone normality and homogeneity testing. The t test calculations yielded a t_count value of 2.736, which exceeded the critical t_table value of 1.685. Therefore, the null hypothesis (H_0) was rejected, and the alternative hypothesis (H_1) was accepted. Therefore, it can be inferred that there is a disparity in the mean learning results of students in the Self-Organized Learning Environment (SOLE) instructional approach and the traditional direct learning approach when it comes to arithmetic sequence material.

Stent retriever versus aspiration based thrombectomy: impact on first pass reperfusion, procedure time, and clinical outcomes in large vessel occlusion. Nationwide registry based cohort study

BackgroundFirst pass reperfusion (FPR), defined as near complete reperfusion (extended Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia (eTICI) score 2c/3) in a single attempt without rescue therapy has been proposed as a quality...

Advancing minimally invasive hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery: ensuring safety with implementation.

Although minimally invasive hepato-pancreato-biliary (MIS HPB) surgery can be performed with good outcomes, there are currently no standardized requirements for centers or surgeons who wish to implement MIS HPB surgery. The aim of this study was to create a consensus statement regarding safe dissemination and implementation of MIS HPB surgical programs. Sixteen key questions regarding safety in MIS HPB surgery were generated after a focused literature search and iterative review by three field experts. Participants for the working group were then selected using sequential purposive sampling and snowball techniques. Review of the 16 questions took place over a single 2-h meeting. The senior author facilitated the session, and a modified nominal group technique was used. Twenty three surgeons were in attendance. All participants agreed or strongly agreed that formal guidelines should exist for both institutions and individual surgeons interested in implementing MIS HPB surgery and that routine monitoring and reporting of institutional and surgeon technical outcomes should be performed. Regarding volume cutoffs, most participants (91%) agreed or strongly agreed that a minimum annual institutional volume cutoff for complex MIS HPB surgery, such as major hepatectomy or pancreaticoduodenectomy, should exist. A smaller proportion (74%) agreed or strongly agreed that a minimum annual surgeon volume requirement should exist. The majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed that surgeons were responsible for defining (100%) and enforcing (78%) guidelines to ensure the overall safety of MIS HPB programs. Finally, formal MIS HPB training, minimum case volume requirements, institutional support and infrastructure, and mandatory collection of outcomes data were all recognized as important aspects of safe implementation of MIS HPB surgery. Safe implementation of MIS HPB surgery requires a thoughtful process that incorporates structured training, sufficient volume and expertise, a proper institutional ecosystem, and monitoring of outcomes.

Transbronchial cryoablation in peripheral lung parenchyma with a novel thin cryoprobe and initial clinical testing

BackgroundTransbronchial cryoablation shows potential as a local therapy for inoperable peripheral lung cancer. However, its clinical application for peripheral pulmonary lesions has not been reported yet.MethodsAn improved cryoprobe with an...

Dynamic Perviousness: A Novel Imaging Marker for Predicting Mechanical Thrombectomy Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke.

The predictive value of thrombus standard perviousness (SP) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) for the technical success rates of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) or functional outcomes is not yet conclusive. We investigated the relationship between dynamic perviousness (DP) and revascularization results using time-dependent enhancement curve types determined with computed tomography (CT). A retrospective analysis of 137 AIS patients was performed. DP was calculated as the thrombus attenuation increase (TAI) using three time points and categorized into four groups: (1) no enhancement (CNE); (2) late enhancement (CLE); (3) early enhancement with washout (CW); (4) early enhancement without washout (CNW). Associations with the technical success rate and functional outcomes were assessed. Late enhancement (CLE) had approximately two times higher odds for successful MT as compared to clots with other enhancement dynamics. The odds ratios (logistic regression model with CNW as the reference) for the TICI III scores were 4.04 (p = 0.067), 1.82 (p = 0.3), and 1.69 (p = 0.4) for CLE, CW, and CNE, respectively. The NIHSS scores at discharge and mRS scores at three months showed regression coefficients (linear regression model with CNW as reference) of -3.05 (p = 0.10), -1.17 (p = 0.51), and -1.24 (p = 0.47); and -1.30 (p = 0.097), -0.85 (p = 0.25), and -0.15 (p = 0.83) for CLE, CW, and CNE, respectively. Thrombi with late enhancement patterns showed a higher revascularization rate and better outcomes as compared to clots with early uptake or no washout.

Robotic CME in 110 consecutive cases: feasibility and short-term technical and oncological outcomes.

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) has been introduced from open surgery, to compare right colon cancer surgery to total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer and it is currently being applied by robotic approach. CME concept is based on the complete removal of right mesocolon and the dissection deep at the level of the central feeding vessels. Aside the CME, intracorporeal anastomosis completes a total minimally invasive approach to the treatment of right colon cancer. This study retrospectively analyzed the feasibility and efficacy of robotic CME and intracorporeal anastomosis in a cohort of consecutive patients affected with right colon cancer. The data of 110 patients undergone a robotic CME with IA anastomosis for right colon cancer from 2018 to 2023 were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Intraoperative, postoperative, and short-middle term outcomes were considered for analysis, as well as pathologic and oncologic outcomes. A time-to-event analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method for OS and DFS. All patients underwent a robotic right colectomy. Median operative time was 184 min, blood loss was negligible, no intraoperative complications occurred. Three conversions (2.7%) were experienced due to bulky lymph nodes and severe local advanced tumor. Mean postoperative stay was 6 days. Six postoperative complications occurred, 4 postoperative ileus, 1 late dehiscence of the colonic stump and an iatrogenic colonic perforation. The latter needed reintervention. Robotic CME with central vessels ligation seems feasible and safe, with acceptable morbidity and adequate short-middle term outcomes.

Technical aspects and outcomes of endovascular treatment for vertebrobasilar tandem occlusions as compared to isolated basilar artery occlusion

Background: The optimal treatment approach for posterior circulation tandem occlusion remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of treatment strategies for vertebrobasilar tandem occlusions as compared to isolated basilar artery occlusions. This study investigates the challenges of managing these complex cerebrovascular conditions and explores the feasibility of optimizing treatment approaches to improve patient outcomes and safety. Methods: Fifty-nine patients with acute posterior large-vessel occlusion stroke who underwent mechanical thrombectomy between November 2016 and December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized as isolated or tandem basilar artery occlusion. The baseline patient characteristics, risk factors, time metrics, recanalization rates, and angiographic characteristics were compared between groups. The study analyzed various interventional strategies, including thrombectomy technique, additional angioplasty, the approach to lesion patterns (ipsilateral to steno-occlusive VA lesion: dirty road or contralateral: clean road), and the sequence of actions during the procedures. The outcome measures were a 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 4-6, post-thrombectomy recanalization defined as mTICI -2b, 90-day mortality. Results: Out of the 59 patients, 39 (66%) had isolated basilar occlusion(i-BAO), while 20 (33%) presented with tandem occlusions (t-BAO). Patients with i-BAO and t-BAO had mean ages of 59.08±12.53 and 56.30±12.94 years, respectively. Both groups had a median NIHSS score of 22 upon admission. t-BAO group had longer times from symptom onset to hospital admission and recanalization times compared to i-BAO. (median 270 min versus 60min, p=0.015; 384 min versus 240 min, p=0.03). Successful recanalization (modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score ≥2b) was obtained in 13 (76.4%) versus 35 (89.7%) patients with t-BAO versus i-BAO, respectively. Thrombectomy performed aspiration with a distal access catheter (CA) was more common in the isolated basilar occlusion group (73.7% vs. 43.8%). In contrast, stent retrievers (SR) were more common in the tandem group (37.5% vs. 18.4). Access was achieved in 17 patients with tandem occlusion. The clean road approach was used in 58.8 % of cases, and the dirty road in 41.2%. t-BAO procedures involved a higher number of intraprocedural passes (median 2.5 vs. 1.5, p=0.047). Third-month mortality rate was significantly higher in the t-BAO group (66.7% vs. 38.5%, p=0.047). Multivariate logistic regression identified a number of passes ≥3 as an independent risk factor for poor clinical outcome at three months (OR=14; 95% CI, 2.596-77.208). Conclusions: Endovascular intervention via mechanical thrombectomy has been demonstrated to be both safe and feasible as a treatment approach for patients presenting with tandem occlusions in the posterior circulation.

Long-term survival of single and multifocal stage 1 lung carcinoma using image-guided thermal ablation.

e20087 Background: Image-guided thermal ablation (IGTA) is an effective treatment option for patients with non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), offering an excellent alternative to invasive surgery. We seek to compare long-term survival metrics between single and multifocal stage IA NSCLC patients who underwent IGTA. Methods: IRB-approved, HIPAA-compliant, retrospective study of patients who underwent IGTA for NSCLC during 2015 and 2016. Patient demographics, clinical and imaging follow-ups, tumor characteristics, and procedural technical outcomes were reviewed. We analyzed technical success, 5-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis between single and multifocal NSCLC cohorts, as well as different tumor stages. Results: 37 patients (mean ± SD age=71.6±8.8) ablated for single (n=15 (40.5%)) or multifocal (n=22 (59.5%)) NSCLC were identified. Multifocal NSCLC were sub-classified into 2-3 (n=12 (32.4%)) and ≥4 tumors (n=10 (27%)). All ablations were completed successfully. Across 119 IGTA encounters, patients were treated using cryoablation (n=66), microwave ablation (MWA) (n=49), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) (n=4). At the time of ablation, individual nodules were staged at T1A=46 (38.7%), T1B=54 (45.4%), T1C=16 (13.5%) and T2A=3 (2.5%). Local recurrence was observed in 4/119 (3.3%) tumors; two were reablated once with MWA and cryoablation with no further recurrence, the third was reablated twice with MWA and had no recurrence, and the fourth was reablated once with MWA and subsequently treated with radiotherapy. Multifocal NSCLC patients exhibited significantly better 5-year OS of 85.6% compared to single NSCLC patients at 35.7% (HR=0.14, p=0.003, 95% CI: 0.037, 0.51). PFS and CSS at 5 years were higher for multifocal NSCLC compared to single NSCLC, but only significant for PFS (HR=0.25, p=0.014, 95% CI: 0.084, 0.76). PFS and CSS of subjects with ≥4 tumors were both 100%, 2-3 tumors at 58.7% and 90.9%, and single tumors at 35.7% and 83.1%, respectively. There was no significant difference between tumor T stages for OS and PFS (p=0.48 and p=0.56, respectively; see Table). No patient staged at T1A at the initial IGTA encounter died as a result of cancer, meaning cancer-specific survival was greatest in T1A tumors (see Table). Conclusions: IGTA is an effective treatment for multifocal and early-stage NSCLC. Our results demonstrated consistent trends in improved survival for multifocal NSCLC. The size of tumor up to 3 cm did not have significant impact on overall survival or progression-free survival. [Table: see text]

Comparison of EsophyX2.0 and MUSE systems for transoral incisionless fundoplication: Technical aspects and outcomes up to 3 years.

We compared the efficacy and safety of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) with the EsophyX2.0 and MUSE systems for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). TIF outcomes from prospective protocols (Esophy2.0X: 2007-2012; MUSE: 2015-2019) were retrospectively compared regarding technical success, moderate/severe adverse events, morpho-functional findings up to 1 year, and clinical outcomes up to 3 years. Inclusion criteria were: (i) at least 6-month symptomatic GERD, full/partial response to proton pump inhibitors (PPI), esophagitis, and nonerosive reflux disease/hypersensitive esophagus (both protocols); (ii) hiatal hernia <3 cm (Esophy2.0X) and ≤2.5 cm (MUSE); and (iii) Barrett's esophagus <3 cm (MUSE). In the 50 EsophyX2.0 and 46 MUSE procedures, technical success and adverse event rates were similar, but MUSE-related adverse events (4.4%) were life-threatening. At 12 months, hiatal hernia recurred more frequently after EsophyX2.0 (P = 0.008). At 6 months, significantly fewer total and acid refluxes were reported after both TIF, but not more significantly at 1 year. Symptoms improved after both TIF up to 1 year (P < 0.0001), but to a greater extent in MUSE patients up to 3 years (P < 0.0001 vs. P < 0.01 for EsophyX2.0). The rates of 3-year off-PPI therapy patients were 73.5% in the MUSE and 53.3% in the EsophyX2.0 series (P = 0.069). Although no conclusion could be drawn from this limited study, the MUSE technique seemed more effective in the long term in patients with hiatal hernia; however, there were more severe adverse events than with EsophyX2.0.

Renewable Energy Technical Potential Performance for Zero Carbon Emissions.

Global 2021 energy flows indicate sectors with the greatest opportunities for efficiency improvements and emissions reduction. Analysis of the International Energy Agency's 2050 Net Zero Emissions (NZE) Scenario with respect to the 2021 energy profile as a reference point provides a model for changes in energy efficiency, emissions reduction, cost, and land use resulting from substitutions of fossil fuels with renewable options at the levels required for net zero emissions by 2050. Even with optimized outcomes, the probability of such widespread changes occurring over the next 30 years is reduced by the need for large investments, infrastructure changes, and the successful deployment of technologies still under development. Achievement of the technical potential outcomes for alternative solar energy to fuels conversion technologies, including cultivated microalgae biomass and biofuels and photocatalytic and photobiological hydrogen, would reduce reliance on mature renewable technologies and provide increase in net energy ("power to wheels") to help meet the demands of a growing population while reducing cost and CO2 emissions compared to the baseline 2050 NZE scenario. Such technical potential performance along with those for solar and wind represents 4 billion tons of CO2 removal (a 28% increase) over the baseline 2050 NZE Scenario but still requires another 9.5 billion tons of carbon capture and removal (CCR) to achieve NZE.

Technical and Clinical Outcomes After Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair of Mitral Regurgitation in Male and Female Patients: Is Equality Achieved?

Currently, no clear impact of sex on short- and long-term survival following transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (TEER) is evident, although no data are available on postprocedural life expectancy. Our aim was to assess sex-specific differences in outcomes of patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) treated by TEER. Short-term and 5-year outcomes in men and women undergoing TEER between 2011 and 2018 who were included in the large, multicenter, real-world MitraSwiss registry were analyzed. Outcomes were compared stratified by sex and according to MR cause (primary versus secondary). The impact of TEER on postprocedural life expectancy was estimated by relative survival analysis. Among 1142 patients aged 60 to 89 years, 39.8% were women. They were older, with fewer cardiovascular risk factors and lower functional capacity compared with men. Thirty-day mortality was higher in men than in women (3.3% versus 1.1%; odds ratio, 3.16 [95% CI, 1.16-10.7]; P=0.020). Five-year survival was comparable in both sexes (adjusted hazard ratio for 5-year mortality in men, 1.14 [95% CI, 0.90-1.44], P=0.275). Both men and women with either primary or secondary MR showed similar clinical efficacy over time. TEER provided high relative survival estimates among all groups, and fully restored predicted life expectancy in women with primary MR (5-year relative survival estimate, 97.4% [95% CI, 85.5-107.0]). TEER is not associated with increased short-term mortality in women, whereas 5-year outcomes are comparable between sexes. Moreover, TEER completely restored normal life expectancy in women with primary MR. A residual excess mortality persists in secondary MR, independently of sex.

Technical Aspects and Outcome of Multi-Staged and Single-Staged Thoracoabdominal Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Repair.

In some cases of endovascular thoracoabdominal or juxtarenal aortic aneurysm repair, a thoracic endograft in combination with a fenestrated renovisceral device may be needed in order to create a sufficient proximal landing zone. This study aimed to evaluate the technical aspects and postoperative morbidity of a single- or 2-stage approach. Eighty-seven consecutive patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in combination with elective fenestrated repair (fenestrated endovascular aortic repair [FEVAR]; fenestrated Anaconda device) from 2015 to 2022 were included in this retrospective bicentric study. Underlying pathologies, aortic morphology, technical details, and postoperative morbidity were recorded. Single-staged ("1S," n=61) and 2-staged ("2S," n=26) interventions were compared. Indications were thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAAs) (Crawford I-IV) (n=56, 64%) and juxtarenal aneurysms (n=31, 36%). In 2S, the proportion of TAAA was higher than in 1S (2S: 77%, 1S: 59%; p=0.001). In 2S, the covered length of the descending aorta was longer (1S: 128±60 mm, 2S: 202±64 mm; p=0.003). Temporary aneurysm sack perfusion (TASP) was established in 11 (18%) of 1S and 1 (4%) of 2S patients (p=0.079), as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage catheter in 48 (79%) of 1S and 19 (73%) of 2S. The rate of spinal cord ischemia (SCI) and the severity of SCI were not different in both groups, with a total of 3 cases of persisting paraplegia. The rate of access complications was higher in 2S (n=6, 23%) than in 1S (n=4, 7%; p=0.027). Postoperative 30 day morbidity did not significantly differ in both groups and neither did 30 day mortality (4.6% in 1S vs 3.8% in 2S; p=0.083). The combination of TEVAR and FEVAR using a fenestrated endograft is feasible and safe. Aortic morphology does not change significantly after endovascular repair. A single-staged strategy is feasible with excellent results, especially in Crawford IV, Crawford V, or juxtarenal aneurysms. Two-staged repair is recommended in cases with long aortic coverage and a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class. Follow-up data are needed to evaluate the long-term stability of the TEVAR/FEVAR interconnection. Our study has revealed the safety and efficacy of the combination of TEVAR and FEVAR in the treatment of TAAAs and juxtarenal aneurysms with compromised supravisceral landing zones. A single-staged concept is not necessary in all cases. Staged procedures may reduce postoperative morbidity in cases with long aortic coverage and higher ASA class.

Indication and Outcome of Late Open Conversion after Abdominal Endovascular Aortic Repair

ObjectiveEndovascular aortic repair (EVAR) has become the standard of care for patients with infrarenal aortic aneurysms over the last two decades. Endograft technology and treatment of complications like endoleaks, graft migration or graft occlusion developed over time. However, sometimes open surgical conversion maybe required. Our aim was to analyze the indications, the technical aspects and outcomes in patients who underwent open conversion after EVAR with different types and generations of endografts. MethodsThis retrospective single-center study reviewed all patients who underwent EVAR from 2004 to 2020. Open surgical conversions > 1 month post EVAR were identified. Conversions for graft infection were excluded. Indications for conversion and operative technique were analyzed. Primary endpoint of the study was 30-day mortality. Secondary endpoints were re-interventions and follow up mortality. ResultsDuring 2004 and 2020, 443 consecutive EVARs were performed, and 28 patients required open surgical conversion, with an additional 3 referred from other hospitals (N=31). The median age was 75 (range 58-93); 94% were male. Conversion was performed after a median time of 55 months (range 16 - 209). Twenty patients underwent elective and 11 emergency conversion. Indications for open conversion were graft migration respectively disease progression with endoleak type Ia and/ or Ib in 52 % (16/31) and sac expansion due to endoleak type II in 26 % (8/31). Of the 31 patients, 17 (55%) had at least one previous endovascular re-intervention. All patients met the device-specific instructions for use for each implanted endograft.In-hospital intervention rate was 16 % (5/31). 30-day mortality rate was 3% (1/31) with one patient died due to multi-organ failure after rupture with complete endograft replacement. Five patients (16%) died during follow-up. Mid-term follow-up was 47.5 months (range 24 -203) with estimated cumulative survival rates of 97%, 89%, and 84%, at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. ConclusionLate open conversion remains a valuable treatment option and can be performed safely in elective and emergency setting with a low early mortality. Lifelong surveillance, and prompt intervention when necessary are essential in ensuring optimal outcomes after EVAR and preventing the need for emergent conversions.

Stratification of Endovascular Revascularization Technical Outcomes Using the Global Limb Anatomic Staging System

Stratification of Endovascular Revascularization Technical Outcomes Using the Global Limb Anatomic Staging System

Advancements in Fire Safety Technology: A Automatic Fire Extinguishing Robot

Fire security which is a lasting and persistent issue requires the continuous development of technology to reinforce protection and inhibition of the fires which are regular event that often leads to emergencies in many sectors. This research endeavors to delve deeply into the realm of fire safety technology, focusing keenly on two innovative approaches: the Chai roof closers security policy, after house-closers protection process, and a matted fire extinguisher robot that notifies about the fire. Through scrupulously examining their technical detail, experiments, operational patterns, and potential outcomes and impact, the paper in this order to fulfills its objective of giving the reader a comprehensive and all-encompassing understanding of the extent and the take of these types of fire systems in the total field of fire safety. Relying on a broad review of journal articles, experiments, and also a proactive approach to these technological advancements that might contribute to averting fire disasters and on preserving both human lives and valuable properties, this research undertakes a mission to explore the emergence of these technological advancements and how much they instill change in the conduct of disaster response and risk mitigation.

Same-day discharge after percutaneous renal cryoablation and its effect on 30 day hospital re-admission rates and post-procedural complications

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify if the local institutional shift from routine overnight observation to same-day discharge following percutaneous cryoablation (PCA) of renal tumors increases 30 day re-admission rates or serious adverse events (AEs). Materials and methodsThis retrospective study included 133 adult patients. PCA patients in calendar years 2018-2019 were routinely observed overnight in the hospital, comprising the control group (Group A). PCA patients in calendar years 2021-2022 were routinely discharged the same day, comprising the test group (Group B). Relevant demographic information, tumor characteristics, technical outcomes, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Results15 patients (11.3 %) from the total cohort were re-admitted to the hospital within 30 days of PCA for any reason. Seven patients (10.4 %) and eight patients (12.1 %) were re-admitted for any reason within 30 days in Group A and Group B, respectively, with no difference between the two groups (p = 0.76). Nine patients (6.8 %) from the total cohort were re-admitted to the hospital within 30 days for a diagnosis secondary to the procedure. Four patients (6 %) and five patients (7.6 %) were re-admitted within 30 days for reasons related to PCA in Group A and Group B, respectively, with no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.71). Eight patients (12 %) and four patients (6 %) had major AEs following PCA in Group A and Group B, respectively, with no difference between the two groups (p = 0.43). ConclusionOverall, the change in post-procedural care after PCA did not have a deleterious effect on 30 day re-admission rates or rates of major AEs.

Endovascular Stent-Graft Repair of True and False Aneurysms of the Splenic Artery.

In treatment of aneurysms (SAAs) and pseudoaneurysms (SAPs) of the splenic artery, endovascular coil embolization is the approach most commonly used as it is minimally invasive and safe. However, it carries a significant rate of primary failure (up to 30%) and might be complicated by splenic infarction. The use of stent grafts might represent a valuable alternative when specific anatomical criteria are respected. We report a comprehensive review on technical and clinical outcomes achieved in this setting. Methods: We performed a comprehensive review of the literature through the MedLine and Cochrane databases (from January 2000 to December 2023) on reported cases of stenting for SAAs and SAPs. Outcomes of interest were clinical and technical success and related complications. The durability of the procedure in the long-term was also investigated. Results: Eighteen papers were included in the analysis, totalling 41 patients (n = 20 male 48.8%, mean age 55.5, range 32-82 years; n = 31, 75.6% SAAs). Mean aneurysm diameter in non-ruptured cases was 35 mm (range 20-67 mm), and most lesions were detected at the proximal third of the splenic artery. Stent grafting was performed in an emergent setting in n = 10 (24.3%) cases, achieving immediate clinical and technical success rate in 90.2% (n = 37) of patients regardless of the type of stent-graft used. There were no procedure-related deaths, but one patient died in-hospital from septic shock and n = 2 (4.9%) patients experienced splenic infarction. At the last available follow-up, the complete exclusion of the aneurysm was confirmed in 87.8% of cases (n = 36/41), while no cases of aneurysm growing nor endoleak were reported. None of the patients required re-intervention during follow-up. Conclusions: When specific anatomical criteria are respected, endovascular repair of SAAs and SAAPs using stent grafts appears to be safe and effective, and seems to display a potential advantage in respect to simple coil embolization, preserving the patient from the risk of end-organ ischemia.

Implementing lean management in hospitals: a survey on social and technical outcomes of kaizen initiatives

Kaizen initiatives are core organisational mechanisms in lean healthcare projects. Although they show specific peculiarities (e.g. a narrow goal and an accelerated timeframe), they can vary in the way they are planned and executed. This study investigates what types of configurations of kaizen initiatives (profiled as gestalts of specific characteristics) can exist in healthcare, if they differ for social and technical outcomes, and for their application context (here considered in terms of work area routineness and team composition). The study is based on data from 362 participants to 105 kaizen initiatives implemented in two public hospitals in Italy. It identifies three clusters (i.e. ‘hard practices-oriented’, ‘soft practices-oriented’ and ‘full-lean adherent’ kaizen initiatives) characterised by different social and technical outcomes. The original contribution to the lean healthcare literature is twofold: first, the simultaneous focus on performance improvement (technical outcome) and modification of operators’ mindset (social outcome); second, the adoption of a configurational approach to understand how gestalts of many variables explain the dynamics that lead to social and technical outcomes. No significant differences were found among clusters in terms of work area routineness and team composition, which also opens interesting directions for future research.

C-77 | Real-World Clinical Application of the Detour Procedure: Technical Outcomes and Early Patency Using Percutaneous Transmural Arterial Bypass (PTAB) in Complex Femoro-Popliteal Occlusions

C-77 | Real-World Clinical Application of the Detour Procedure: Technical Outcomes and Early Patency Using Percutaneous Transmural Arterial Bypass (PTAB) in Complex Femoro-Popliteal Occlusions