Term Follow-up Research Articles

Electrocardiographic abnormalities and NT-proBNP levels at long-term follow-up of patients with dyspnea after pulmonary embolism

ABSTRACTS Objectives Electrocardiogram (ECG) and measurement of plasma brain natriuretic peptides (BNP) are established markers of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in the setting of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) but their value at long-term follow-up is largely unknown. The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the prevalence of ECG abnormalities, describe levels of N-terminal proBNP (NT-proBNP), and establish their association with dyspnea at long-term follow-up after PE. Design All Swedish patients diagnosed with acute PE in 2005 (n = 5793) were identified through the Swedish National Patient Registry. Surviving patients in 2007 (n = 3510) were invited to participate. Of these, 2105 subjects responded to a questionnaire about dyspnea and comorbidities. Subjects with dyspnea or risk factors for development of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension were included in the study in a secondary step, which involved collection of blood samples and ECG registration. Results Altogether 49.3% had a completely normal ECG. The remaining participants had a variety of abnormalities, 7.2% had atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF). ECG with any sign of RVD was found in 7.2% of subjects. Right bundle branch block was the most common RVD sign with a prevalence of 6.4%. An abnormal ECG was associated with dyspnea. AF was associated with dyspnea, whereas ECG signs of RVD were not. 61.2% of subjects had NT-proBNP levels above clinical cut-off (>125 ng/L). The degree of dyspnea did not associate independently with NT-proBNP levels. Conclusions We conclude that the value of ECG and NT-proBNP in long term follow-up after PE lies mostly in differential diagnostics.

Change in tissue resistance after irreversible electroporation in liver tumors as an indicator of treatment success - A multi-center analysis with long term follow-up

IntroductionA nationwide multicenter study was performed to examine whether there is a correlation between decrease in tissue resistance and time to local tumor recurrence after irreversible electroporation (IRE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM). MethodsAll patients treated with IRE for liver tumors in Sweden from 2011 until 2018 were included. Patient characteristics and recurrence patterns were obtained from medical records and radiological imaging. All procedural data from the IRE hardware at the three hospitals performing IRE were retrieved. The resistance during each pulse and the change during each treatment were calculated. The electrode pair with the smallest decrease in tissue resistance was used and compared with the time to LTP. Results149 patients with 206 tumors were treated. Exclusion due to missing and inaccurate data resulted in 124 patients with 170 tumors for the analyses. In a multivariable Cox regression model, a smaller decrease in tissue resistance and larger tumor size were associated with shorter time to local tumor recurrence for CRCLM, but not for HCC. ConclusionThere was an association between a decrease in tissue resistance and time to local tumor recurrence for CRCLM. The decrease in resistance, in combination with a rise in current, may be the parameters the interventionist should use during IRE to decide if the treatment is successful.

Comparison of SHD-IBG and PVIBGT in ONFH including mechanical and pathological analysis of failure cases

Currently, there is a lack of relevant research on the efficacy difference between SHD combined with IBG and PVIBGT in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head(ONFH). Firstly, this study intends to compare the effectiveness of surgical hip dislocation combined with impacting bone grafts (SHD-IBG) and pedicled vascularised iliac bone graft transfer (PVIBGT) in treating ONFH. And the study investigates patients who suffered from hip preservation failures from both groups to better comprehend failure reasons. 30 patients (34 hips) with ARCO stage IIIA femoral head necrosis were selected between January 2012 and July 2022. They were divided into group A(SHD-IBG) and group B (PVIBGT) according to different surgical methods. Firstly, compared the 1-year effect between SHD-IBG and PVIBGT at 1 year postoperatively; Secondly, assessed the medium and long-term efficacy of SHD-IBG hip preservation treatment; Lastly, based on study of the femoral head removed from patients with hip preservation failure in the two groups, the reasons for the failure of hip preservation were comprehensively analyzed in the two groups. Group A: 11 males (13 hips), 4 females (4 hips);Group B: 9 males (11 hips), 6 females (6 hips).Firstly, the average Harris scores of the two groups at 1 year after surgery: preoperative: 70.7, 1 year after surgery: 78.9 in group A; preoperative: 69.5, 1 year after surgery: 81.5 in group B. The differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).Compared to the preoperative period, quantitative analysis by DCE-MRI showed an increase in perfusion in the necroticarea and an improvement in hyperperfusion in the repair-responsive area one year after the surgery. Secondly, in group A, the hip preservation rate was 88.2% at 2.5–11 (average of 77 months) years of follow-up, and the mean Harris score at the last follow-up was 73.2.Semi-quantitative analysis of postoperative DCE-MRI showed that the perfusion curves of necrotic and repaired areas were similar to those of the normal area. This suggests the instability within the femoral head had been effectively improved, and the perfusion had partially recovered. Thirdly, according to Micro-CT and pathologica studies of patients with hip preservation failure in these two groups, all these patients' femoral head was significantly collapsed and deformed. Their trabeculae was thin and partially disorganized, with fractures in the subchondral bone and separation of the cartilage from the subchondral bone. The necrotic areas had sparse trabeculae, disorganized arrangement, loss of continuity, and disappearance of cells in the trabecular traps. The necrotic area was covered with fibrous tissue, and partial restoration was observed in the repair area. Mechanical finite element analysis showed that the maximum equivalent force was observed in the weight- bearing area and the cortical bone surrounding the shaft of femurand. The result of DCE-MRI showed that the repair reaction area exhibited abnormal hyperperfusion. In this study, the efficacy of SHD-IBG and PVIBGT was compared at 1 year after operation, and the long-term follow-up of SHD-IBG was 2.5–11 (mean 77 months) years, combined with DCE-MRI results, we found that the short-term effect of PVIBGT was more significant than that of SHD-IBG. SHD-IBG can achieve satisfactory hip preservation in the medium and long term follow-up.

The Effectiveness of Using Progressive Muscle Relaxation Techniques on Quality of Life, Stress, And Anxiety Among Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review

The progressive muscle relaxation technique (PMRT) is an active method that is defined as a technique through which individuals gradually cause a feeling of quietness and coolness by actively contracting and loosening specific muscle groups. The purpose of this study was to review the effectiveness of using progressive muscle relaxation techniques on quality of life, stress, and anxiety levels among Acute Myocardial Infarction patients. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (2013-2023). Databases of&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;Pub Med through (Medline), EBSCO, and Cochrane Library were conducted for trials of progressive muscle relaxation techniques on quality of life, stress, and anxiety levels as clinical outcomes. Data extraction and quality appraisal were performed and verified. The Cochrane Risk of Bias instrument tool was used to appraise the selected articles critically. Seven out of 40 studies included 420 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The progressive muscle relaxation technique is more effective and statistically significant regarding quality of life (p &lt; 0.05). Stress as an outcome was decreased after PMRT (p &lt; 0.05), and anxiety levels (p = 0.001). The progressive muscle relaxation technique&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;revealed a significant effect on patients' quality of life, stress, and anxiety levels. However, results need to be confirmed using more high-quality RCTs. Therefore, frequent evaluation is suggested for the available primary studies to prove the findings. Applying the PMRT as part of the cardiac rehabilitation program will help in enhancing patient outcomes. A combination of PMRT with other interventions will increase the efficacy of the PMRT. Follow-up in the long term will improve the generalizability of the findings for MI patients and among different patients with other cardiac diseases.

Super natural power of MTA!! Successful management of badly mutilated young molars, report of two cases with 3 years follow up

Apexification in one visit with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) is beneficial in effectively sealing the open apices of young mutilated teeth. Although, placement of MTA through canals is difficult and many a times leads to over extrusion due to wide apex. This case report presents the outcome of extruded MTA during apexification in mandibular young permanent molars in children. On long term follow-up, complete healing of the periapical radiolucency was evident around MTA without any symptoms. MTA apexification in incisors have been found in literature, but very few cases are reported with long term follow up regards to young molars.

Extended postpartum outcomes with systematic treatment of and management of postpartum hypertension program

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine the long-term effect of a quality improvement initiative at one-year post delivery. Study DesignThis was a retrospective study of 1480 patients who delivered between October 2018 and June 2020 at the study institution and were enrolled in the Systematic Treatment and Management of PostPartum Hypertension Program (STAMPP). Patients received standardized cuffs, education, and follow-up. At the six-week postpartum follow-up, patients were again given instructions to establish follow-up. Main Outcome MeasuresThe primary outcome was a visit with a primary care physician (PCP) or cardiologist between 6 weeks and 1 year postpartum. ResultsA total of 939 (63 %) patients had some follow-up within twelve months. Of these, 113 (12 %) and 175 (19 %) had follow-up with cardiology and primary care providers, respectively. Patients with no follow-up were more likely to have public aid (73.9 % vs 60.3 %; p < 0.001). 77 % identified as Black, with only 12 % of this cohort following up with cardiology and 13 % with a PCP. ConclusionsDespite specific counseling about long term follow-up, a minority of patients completed one year follow-up, notably amongst Black patients and those with public insurance. Further work is needed to optimize long-term follow-up after HDP to reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease, especially amongst high-risk patients.

Long term follow-up of patients with patent ductus arteriosus after transcatheter closure.

To investigate the concurrent, long-term, and future adverse events and assess the trend of adverse events in pediatric patients with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) after transcatheter closure. A total of 1590 patients underwent transcatheter PDA closure were enrolled, including 465 patients (median age = 22 months) in the training group and 1125 patients in the validation group. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess independent risk factors associated with concurrent adverse events after closure. The chi-square test was used to evaluate the 5-year follow-up trend. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that low age, female, and high pulmonary end diameter were independent risk factors for concurrent adverse events after closure. For patients without concurrent adverse events and for those who with concurrent adverse events but return to normal, the Chi-square test showed no abnormal results at the 5-year follow-up. Furthermore, the follow-up data of the validation group were not significantly different from those of the training group. The value of long-term follow-up of children may be limited for those who did not have a concurrent adverse event after closure nor for those who had a concurrent adverse event after closure but returned to normal during the 5-year follow-up period. Follow-up monitoring of adverse events tended to be recommended in pediatric patients with PDA after transcatheter closure. However, follow-up in these pediatric patients is expensive and there is a risk of sedation for echocardiography examination frequently. ·Patients who had no concurrent adverse events after closure did not show any abnormality at 5-year follow-up. ·Most of the patients who had concurrent adverse events after closure returned to normal at 5-year follow-up. The value of long-term follow-up may be limited for the above patients after transcatheter PDA closure.

The relationship between Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) and ischemic priapism: a case-control study.

This multicentre retrospective study was conducted in 3 university hospitals in Egypt between April 2020 and June 2022. The aim was to assess the relation between Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) and ischemic priapism. Forty-three ischemic priapism patients were diagnosed and divided into two groups (30 in group I with ischemic priapism only, and 13 in group II with both ischemic priapism and COVID-19). Further sub-classification of COVID-19 patients according to the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection severity was done. Cavernosal aspiration was successful in 25 patients (83.3%) in group I and 12 (92.3%) in group II. Long term follow-up proved moderate to severe erectile dysfunction in 6 patients (20.0%) and 1 (7.7%) in group I and II, respectively. All those with severe erectile dysfunction were managed by distal shunt and prepared for penile prosthesis placement. The median duration of ischemic priapism was significantly longer in patients with severe erectile dysfunction [19 vs. 7 h, P = 0.01]. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups regarding patients' age (p = 0.8), required priapism management (p = 0.4), priapism recurrence (p = 0.1), and erectile dysfunction severity (p = 0.5). Ischemic priapism in COVID-19 patients can occur not only in severe, but also in mild or even asymptomatic cases. COVID-19 did not influence the ischemic priapism treatment protocol and post-treatment erectile function. COVID-19 and ischemic priapism seem to have a coincidence relation rather than a causal.

Shortfalls of free autologous internal limiting membrane transplantation for highly myopic refractory macular holes in a long term follow-up

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to evaluate long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of autologous internal limiting membrane (ILM) transplantation in refractory highly myopic macular holes (HMMHs).MethodsRetrospective interventional analysis of 13 eyes with refractory HMMH undergoing autologous ILM transplantation with gas tamponade. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, Snellen), optical coherence tomography and fundus photography were scheduled at baseline and every follow-up visit (1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24 months and the most recent). Preoperatively, we collected minimum linear diameter (MLD) and basal diameter (BD). Post-operatively, rates of external limiting membrane (ELM)/ellipsoid zone (EZ) restoration, excessive gliosis and subfoveal retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) atrophy were evaluated.ResultsAverage AXL was 31.45 ± 2.07 mm and mean follow-up was 47.2 ± 31.4 months. Anatomical success was reached in 7/13 eyes (54%), while 2 cases showed persisting HMMH, 2 cases had early recurrence and 2 cases late recurrence. BCVA went from 0.19 ± 0.18 to 0.22 ± 0.20 at final follow-up (p = 0.64), improving in 5/13 eyes (38%). One eye showed continuous ELM and EZ lines, while another eye showed an irregular ELM but no EZ. Post-operatively, 5 eyes (71%) developed progressive atrophy of the subfoveal RPE, while excessive gliosis was reported in 3 eyes (43%). Furthermore, one patient developed post-operative chronic macular edema-like changes in the perifoveal area.ConclusionAutologous ILM transplantation showed controversial anatomical outcomes and and poor visual results in refractory HMMH. Moreover, progressive subfoveal patchy atrophy and excessive gliosis are possible post-operative complications.

Safety and efficacy of ifebemtinib (IN10018) combined with D-1553 in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS G12C mutation: Results from a phase Ib/II study.

8605 Background: KRAS G12C mutation is present in about 12-14% of NSCLC population. Ifebemtinib (IN10018) is a highly potent and selective oral inhibitor of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). D-1553 (garsorasib) is a novel oral and potent KRAS G12C inhibitor. Preclinical data showed that ifebemtinib in combination with KRAS G12C inhibitors had synergistic anti-cancer effect in multiple KRAS G12C mutant cancer models. This study is to evaluate the safety and antitumor activity of ifebemtinib combined with D-1553 in solid tumors with KRAS G12C mutation. Here we report the preliminary data from phase II part of front-line NSCLCs with KRAS G12C mutation. Methods: Locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC subjects without prior systemic anti-cancer therapy were enrolled. Subjects were required to have KRAS G12C mutation in tumor tissues. All subjects were assigned to the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of ifebemtinib (100mg qd) + D-1553 (600mg bid). Results: As of 31 January 2024, 33 front-line NSCLC subjects with KRAS G12C mutation were enrolled and received the combination therapy. Median age was 65yrs (range 58, 83), 93.9% were male, and 81.8% had stage IV metastatic disease. Median study follow-up (FU) was 2.2 months (range 1.1, 9.2). The safety profile of the combination therapy is comparable to each single agent without additive toxicities. No ifebemtinib- or D-1553-related death was reported. Four subjects (12.1%) had ifebemtinib-related SAEs (diarrhea, enteritis, oedema peripheral and proteinuria) as assessed by investigators, and all SAEs were also considered D-1553 related. Six subjects (18.1%) had ≥ Grade 3 ifebemtinib-related AEs as assessed by investigators, and all were also D-1553 related AEs. The majority of ifebemtinib-related AEs were CTCAE Grade 1 or 2. There was no event leading to study treatment discontinuation. We have observed continuing tumor shrinkage in almost all subjects who had at least 2 tumor assessments. Among 16 subjects with ≥ 3 months FU, preliminary efficacy found that 14 had best overall response of partial response (PR) including 12 confirmed PRs and 2 unconfirmed but still in treatment, 1 had stable disease (SD), and 1 had progressive disease (PD). The overall response rate (ORR) was 87.5% (95%CI: 56.6, 96.2), and disease control rate (DCR) was 93.8% (95%CI: 63.6, 98.5). The median duration of response (DOR), median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) have not been reached. Conclusions: The combination of ifebemtinib and D-1553, as a dual-oral regimen, showed promising antitumor activity and manageable safety profile in KRAS G12C mutant front-line NSCLC population. Long term follow-up is needed to assess the potential of such novel combo. Clinical trial information: NCT06166836 ; NCT05379946 .

Three-corner arthrodesis for scapholunate and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapsed wrists: outcomes at long term follow-ups

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess clinical, functional and radiological outcomes after three-corner arthrodesis in patients suffering from symptomatic scapholunate or scaphoid non-union advanced collapsed wrists. We hypothesised that three-corner arthrodesis provided satisfactory clinical and radiological results in the long term. Material and methodsThis was a retrospective study of 13 patients (14 wrists) who underwent a three-corner arthrodesis between March 2004 and January 2019 with a mean follow-up of 6,7 years. Clinical assessment consisted of wrist motion, grip strength, pain and functional scores (Quick-DASH, PRWE, MWS). All complications and surgical revisions were investigated. Radiographic assessment searched for union, evaluated carpal height and ulnar translation, lunate tilt and occurrence of radio-lunate arthritis. ResultsAt the last follow-up Quick-DASH and PRWE scores were 24,87(± 17.2) and 47.4 (± 26.9) respectively and were significantly improved. Wrist motion was 35°, 32°, 10° et 24° of flexion, extension, radial and ulnar deviation respectively. Union was obtained for 13 (92,9%) wrists. The mean radiolunate angle was 11° (-17°-34°). Three patients needed reintervention, which 2 consisted of total wrist arthrodesis due to persisting pain. Mild signs of radio-lunate arthritis were found in three patients. ConclusionThree-corner arthrodesis seemed to provide satisfactory long-term functional outcomes. The union rate was high and even patients with signs of radio-lunate arthritis still had improved outcomes at the last follow-up. It could be a part of surgical options in wrists with radio- and midcarpal arthritis, among other procedures.

Onabotulinumtoxina (craniotomy scar combined with cranial suture line injections) for persistent post craniotomy headache: Case series with long-term follow-up.

There is no defined preventive treatment protocol for persistent post-craniotomy headache. In several small case series and individual case reports onabotulinumtoxinA injected into the craniotomy scar has shown possible efficacy. What is lacking is long term follow-up and if focusing on the cranial suture lines along with the craniotomy scar can enhance improvement and provide more sustained benefit. Retrospective chart review with case series. Four patients (three women, one man) with ICHD-3 defined persistent post craniotomy headache were treated using a novel onabotulinumtoxinA injection protocol. All the patients presented with continuous head pain of moderate to severe intensity. All had severe allodynia on the side of their craniotomy. All had significant reduction in quality of life. Our application of onabotulinumtoxinA involved injection into both the surgical scar and the transected/irritated cranial suture lines noted on neuroimaging and physical examination. With treatment all patients demonstrated significant benefit including a reduction in daily pain intensity (75%-100%), developing periods of pain freedom (2-7 days per week) and having a dramatic improvement in quality of life (close to 100% in all). The benefit was sustained for at least five years of follow-up. From our case series it appears that injection not only along the painful craniotomy scar but into the involved cranial suture lines provides positive efficacy and sustained improvement in patients with persistent post craniotomy headache.

Updates in the management of hypertension

Hypertension is the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases and nephropathies. Its treatment and management require long-term follow-up which can be facilitated by the emergence of device-based therapies. Novel recommendations have been well described in the latest ESH guidelines as well as new risk factors have been identified. The authors summarized the published evidence on hypertension management. The authors also cited in this review novel treatment approaches in different settings and the intervention of medication adherence in treatment success. Such non-communicable disease requires long-term follow-up and monitoring, which is quite facilitated in the era of digitalization by cuff-less devices based on prediction tools.

OriCAR-017, a novel GPRC5D-targeting CAR-T, in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: Long term follow-up results of phase 1 study (POLARIS).

7511 Background: OriCAR-017 is a novel GPRC5D-targeting CAR T-cells. Previously we had presented early study results (Lancet Haematol 2023: 10: e107–16) following OriCAR-017 treatment, the results of good durable response and long-term safety profile support OriCAR-017 is highly probable to be developed as a promising therapy for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. All patients had completed at least 2-year follow-up per protocol. Methods: Ten median age of 64 years (range 41–71) pretreated RRMM pts with a median of 5.5 prior lines therapies (range 3-17) received OriCAR-017. Seven (70.0%) pts were cytogenetics high risk, 4 (40.0%) pts had EMD, 3 (30.0%) pts had ISS stage(III), 2 (20.0%) pts had received prior anti-CD38 and 2 (20.0%) pts were treated with auto-HSCT and 5 (50.0%) pts were treated with BCMA CAR-T. Patients were administrated in a single dose of intravenous OriCAR-017 at 1×10⁶CAR-T/kg (DL1,n=3), 3×10⁶CAR-T/kg(DL2,n=4), or 6×10⁶CAR-T/kg(DL3,n=3). Results: At data cut-off (Jan 16, 2024), all 10 enrolled pts had been evaluated for response with the last patient completed 24 months follow up. ORR was 100.0%, sCR was 80.0%, VGPR was 20.0%. All patients achieved MRD negativity at day 28. The mDOR was 10.43 months (95%CI, 5.00-17.00); mPFS was 11.37 months (95%CI, 5.93-18.00) while mOS has not reached (7 pts still undergo survival follow-up, 1 pt died from disease progress, 2 from COVID). The mDOR was 17.23 months (95%CI, 7.33-NR) and the mPFS was 19.10 months (95%CI, 8.30-NR) with 67% prior BCMA CAR-T pts at high dose level. Nine (90%) pts had grade 1 CRS, and 1 (10%) pt had grade 2 CRS. No ≥ G3 CRS was observed. Median time to CRS onset was 2 days (range 1–9) and median duration was 6 days (range 3–9). No ICANS, nor DLTs were observed. There were no SAE and no treatment-related deaths. No PK difference across dose levels with Cmax 7354.7 copies/μL and AUC0-28 68587 copies·day/μg. At high doses, CAR-T cells were detectable at 9 months and one responder at 21 months above the LLOQ. The patients with Tlast≧9 months had a longer PFS than those with Tlast &lt;9 months. No correlation of antigen expression and efficacy was observed. All patients had the positive GPRC5D expression in bone marrow CD138+MMPC at baseline, compared with 50% of relapsed pts had a reduced expression measured by flow cytometry. Conclusions: The updated results showed OriCAR-017 continued to provide deep and durable responses, MRD negativity was achieved in all RRMM pts, including in pts refractory to anti-CD38, PIs and IMIDs and failure to BCMA-directed therapy with excellent safety profile. The results of long-term efficacy and safety follow up support that OriCAR-017 is highly probable to be developed as a promising therapy in RRMM. Further clinical development efforts are undertaking to confirm the clinical benefits of OriCAR-017. Clinical trial information: NCT05016778 .

Long term follow-up results of BRL-201 phase I study, a CRISPR-based non-viral PD-1 locus specific integrated anti-CD19 CAR-T cells in treating relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Long term follow-up results of BRL-201 phase I study, a CRISPR-based non-viral PD-1 locus specific integrated anti-CD19 CAR-T cells in treating relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Comparable Results of Single and Two-Stage Exchange for Select Periprosthetic Hip and Knee Infection.

Although two-stage exchange has been the standard of care for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in the United States, single-stage exchange is emerging as an option in select patients. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of patients undergoing single-stage and two-stage exchange using strict surgical indications. We reviewed a consecutive series of 196 patients with diagnosed PJI undergoing revision total knee and hip arthroplasty from 2017 to 2021. Patients were excluded if they had PJI history, plastic surgery coverage, or extensive bone loss requiring endoprosthesis. We compared the number of patients PJI-free at 1-year follow-up using MusculoSkeletal Infection Society criteria and patients requiring re-revision between the single-stage and two-stage groups. In total, 126 patients met inclusion criteria. Of 61 knee patients (48.4%), 22 underwent single-stage (36%) and 39 underwent two-stage (63.9%). Of 65 hip patients (51.6%), 38 underwent single-stage (58.5%) and 27 underwent two-stage (41.5%). At a mean follow-up of 1.95 ± 0.88 years, a higher rate of knee patients were classified as having treatment success in the single-stage group (77.3% versus 69.2%, P = 0.501), however with comparable septic failure rates (18.1% single-stage versus 17.9% two-stage; P = 0.982). At a mean follow-up of 1.81 ± 0.9 years, a higher rate of hip patients were classified as having treatment success in the single-stage group (94.7% versus 81.5%, P = 0.089), and more patients had septic failures in the two-stage group (18.5% versus 5.3%; P = 0.089). No differences were observed in the microorganism profile. More total complications (P = 0.021) and mortalities were found in the single-stage knee cohort than in the two-stage cohort (22.7% versus 2.6%; P = 0.011). Single-stage arthroplasty is a viable alternative to standard two-stage exchange in patients with PJI without a history of infection and with no bone or soft-tissue compromise. Additional studies with longer term follow-up are needed to evaluate its efficacy.

VERY LOW RECCURENCE AT 5-YEAR FOLLOW AFTER TAPP WITH PRO-GRIP IN 1200 PATIENTS

Abstract The aim of this study was to demonstrate the long term safety and the efficacy of the self-gripping Parietex ProGrip™ mesh (Medtronic) used with the laparoscopic approach for inguinal hernia repair. The incidence of chronic pain, post-operative complications, patient satisfaction and hernia recurrence at follow-up after 5 years. Methods Data were collected prospectively using the “hernia-med” register in 1579 primary inguinal hernias. All patients included had undergone surgical repair for inguinal hernia by the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal approach using Parietex ProGrip™ meshes performed in the same hernia referral center in Germany. Pre-, per- and post-operative data were collected, and a follow-up after one and five years was performed prospectively. Complications, pain scored on a 0–10 numeric rating scale (NRS), patient satisfaction and hernia recurrence were assessed. Results The only complications were minor and were post-operative: hematoma/seroma (3 cases), secondary hemorrhage through the trocar's site (5 cases), hematuria, emphysema in the inguinal regions (both sides) and hematoseroma in 3,2%. The 5 year follow-up rate was 76%, respectively 1205 patients. There were only 14 reports of hernia recurrence: 1.2% of the hernias. Most patients (95.9%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their hernia repair with only 1.2% reporting severe pain (NRS score 7–10) and 3.6% reported mild pain. Conclusion This study demonstrates that in experienced hands, inguinal hernia repair surgery performed by laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal hernioplasty using Parietex ProGrip™ self-gripping meshes is rapid, efficient and safe with low pain and low hernia recurrence rate. The promising short term results held true also in the long term follow-up.

Short term follow-up of femoral neck dynamic cross screw system and threaded cannulated screw in the treatment of vertically unstable femoral neck fractures

To analyze and compare the clinical effects of femoral neck dynamic cross screw system (FNS) and cannulated screws(CS) in the treatment of vertically unstable femoral neck fractures. The clinical data and short-term follow-up results of 40 patients with vertically unstable femoral neck fractures admitted from July 2020 to August 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. According to different internal fixation methods, 40 patients were divided into two groups, 20 cases in FNS group included 11 males and 9 females with a median of 58.5(50.3, 62.5) years old, and 20 in CS group included 9 males and 11 females with a median of 52.0(40.5, 58.0) years old. The operation time, knife edge length, blood loss and treatment cost of two gruops were observed and compared. The postoperative fracture healing and internal fixation were evaluated with X-ray imaging data, and the femoral neck shortening of the affected side was measured. The incidence of thigh irritation, the time of partial weight bearing and full weight bearing, early necrosis of femoral head, reoperation revision and Harris scores were compared between two groups. FNS group was followed up for 18.0(15.0, 19.0) months, CS group for 17.0(15.0, 18.8) months. There was no significant difference in operation time, incision length and blood loss between two groups(P>0.05). The cost of diagnosis and treatment in FNS group was higher than that in CS group(P<0.001). In FNS group, there was no irritation sign of the affected side thigh, while in CS group, there were 6 cases with discomfort or irritation sign of the lateral thigh(P<0.05). The average time of partial weight bearing activity in CS group was later than that in FNS group(P<0.05); However, there was no significant difference in the activity time of complete weight bearing between two groups(P=0.011>0.05). At the last follow-up, the shortened length of the affected femoral neck in CS group was greater than that in FNS group(P<0.05). There was no early necrosis of femoral head and reoperation in both groups. There was no significant difference in Harris score between two groups 12 months after operation(P>0.05). FNS treatment of vertically unstable femoral neck fractures can significantly reduce the incidence of lateral thigh irritation sign, and effectively reduce the postoperative shortening rate of vertically unstable femoral neck fractures, which can provide a relatively stable anti rotation force and anti cutting force, so that patients can go to the ground relatively early, which is conducive to the recovery of the affected hip joint function after surgery. It is a new option for the surgical treatment of vertically unstable femoral neck fractures. However, due to the high cost of treatment, In clinical practice, appropriate surgical treatment is selected according to the actual situation.

Long-term follow-up of pulmonary vein cryoballoon isolation using a double 120s vs single 240s standard freeze protocol

Abstract Background Recently, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using a double 120s freeze protocol has demonstrated to be non-inferior to a single 240s protocol despite a potentially increased procedural safety. Main advantages of a double 120s protocol are a reduction of phrenic nerve injury and an increase of the mean minimal esophageal temperature during the procedure. Methods We performed a long-term follow-up comparison between groups of patients with history of symptomatic atrial fibrillation undergoing PVI with second generation cryoballoon (CB) between 2019 and 2020. Our usual energy dosing protocol was modified including 2 times 120 seconds applications instead of a single 240 seconds application. Of A total of 160 consecutive patients, 80 were treated with double 120s (CB120) and 80 with single 240s (CB240) freeze protocol. 107 patients were, successfully, followed-up. The primary end-point was freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia. Results Before PVI a total of 11/52 patients (21%) had persistent AF and 41/52 (79%) had paroxysmal AF in the CB120 group; a total of 20/55 patients (36%) had persistent AF and 35/55 (64%) had paroxysmal AF in the CB240 group. On a mean follow-up time of 17 months, freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia was 63% in those patients undergoing CB240 and 74% with CB120 (log-rank P=0.255). Conclusions The double 120s freeze protocol is not-inferior as compared to the standard 240s in terms of freedom from recurrences on a long term follow-up, but with a more favorable procedural safety profile.

Ten-year follow-up results of patients with persistent atrial fibrillation treated by combined pulmonary vein isolation and complex fractionated atrial electrocardiogram ablation

Abstract Background For persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) alone is associated with lower success rate compared to paroxysmal AF and additional strategies are needed. Ablation targeting on complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) is an alternative method. Although clinical benefits of the strategy combined PVI and CFAE ablation have not been shown by large trials, clinical situations and consequences of this approach have not been clearly demonstrated during very long term follow-up. Purpose This study aimed to retrospectively investigate clinical outcomes of patients with persistent AF treated by the approach combined PVI and CFAE ablation during a follow-up period of 10 years. Methods 73 patients (59.4±8.1 years, 64 male, AF history 5.5 years) with persistent (23, 31.5%) and long-standing persistent AF (50, 68.5%) who underwent combined PVI and CFAE ablation in the first procedure were included. Structural heart disease was found in 9 patients, and a history of ablation for typical atrial flutter (AFL) in 4. A complete CFAE mapping in the left atrium and coronary sinus was performed with a 3-D mapping system (EnSite NavX). All CFAEs defined as electrograms with continuous activities or mean cycle length detected by the system &amp;lt;80 ms were eliminated. All patients were controlled regularly during the first year with 12-lead ECG and Holter monitoring and followed by annual control. The electronic health records for all patients were extensively investigated and the patients were interviewed in 2020-2022. Any documented atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) after 3-month blanking period was regarded as recurrence. Results Mean 2.2±1.2 (1-5) ablation procedures were performed in each patient. After index ablation, 18 (24.7%) were free of ATAs during 10-year follow-up. 26 (35.6%) had recurrence of only AF, 6 (8.2%) of only AFL and 23 (31.5%) had both AF and AFL. The proportion of AFL was 39.7% with 6 typical AFL. After multiple ablation procedures, 33 (45.2%) patients were free of ATA during the follow-up. 23 (31.5%) had recurrence of only AF, 5 (6.8%) of only AFL and 12 (16.4%) of both AF and AFL. The proportion of AFL was 23.2% with no typical AFL. At 1-year follow-up, freedom of ATAs in persistent AF was higher than that in long-standing AF (65.2 vs. 40.0%, p=0.033) and no significant difference was found after 2 years (47.8 vs. 34.0%, p=0.129) until 10 years (30.4 vs. 22.0%, p=0.167, Figure 1). No difference was observed between these subgroups after multiple procedures at 10-year follow-up (47.8 vs. 44.0%, p=0.708, Figure 2). Conclusions PVI plus CAFE ablation in patients with persistent AF led to a high recurrence of ATA after index ablation. Difference of ATA-freedom between persistent and long-standing persistent AF groups was found only 1 year after the index procedure, but not during further follow-up. Incidence of post-ablation AFL was particularly high, even after multiple ablation procedures.Figure 1Figure 2