Tibial Vessels Research Articles

Outcomes of Tibial Balloon Angioplasty in Patients with Single Tibial Runoff on Wound Healing

Background The lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) is between 3 and 12 percent, and If PAD left untreated, can lead to loss of the limb and in severe cases, death. Each year, there are 500 to 1000 new cases of chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) per million population with an estimated annual cost to the UK National Health Service (NHS) of more than GBP 200 million. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to assess the outcome of tibial balloon angioplasty in patients with single tibial runoff by the impact of technical success in the form of single patent tibial vessel continuous with pedal arch and clinical success by wound healing. Patients and Methods This a prospective observational cohort study which was done to is to assess the outcome of tibial balloon angioplasty in patients with single tibial runoff by the impact of technical success in the form of single patent tibial vessel continuous with pedal arch and clinical success by wound healing in 40 patients with CLTI due to infrapopliteal disease. Our study included forty patients who visit out patient clinic or emergency room and scheduled for angioplasty. Then their wound healing rate was followed up for 6 months after the procedure. Results The mean of age was 62.55 ± 7.31 years. 17 patients (42.5%) were male while 23 patients (57.5%) were female. Regarding the past medical history; current Smoking was found in 30 patients (75%). Diabetes mellitus was found in 28 patients (70.0%). hypertension was found in 32 patients (80.0%). Cardiac diseases were found in 24 patients (60%). Conclusion This is a prospective observational cohort study to assess the outcome of tibial balloon angioplasty in patients with single tibial runoff by the impact of technical success in the form of single patent tibial vessel continuous with pedal arch and clinical success by wound healing. Our study proved that single tibial angioplasty has effective role in improving the foot wound healing, shortening its duration in the chronic threatening limb ischemia patients, improving limb salvage and quality of life.

Ten-year experience with use of cryopreserved allografts for redo infrapopliteal bypass.

The aim of this study is to report the early and late outcomes of cryopreserved saphenous vein (CSV) in redo infrainguinal bypass and to investigate possible predictors of primary patency loss. All patients who underwent a redo bypass for critical limb ischemia from January 2010 to December 2020 were reviewed. Early and late complications were analyzed and included. The endpoints of the study were all cause mortality, major limb amputation, and primary patency (PP). Data were collected from 95 patients. Among the entire cohort, 16 (16.8%) patients received a cryopreserved vessel bypass with anastomosis in the popliteal artery and 79 (83.2%) patients had cryopreserved vessel bypasses with distal anastomosis in tibial vessels. Median duration of follow-up was 73months; during this, period estimated survival at 5years was 80.5 ± 4% (95% CI, 78.0-91.2) and estimates of freedom from limb amputation was 90.3 ± 3.2% (95% CI, 87.3-98.1). Overall, the estimated primary patency of the bypass was 43.7 ± 6.7% (95% CI, 30.2-51.4). On multivariable analysis, intraprocedural tibial vessel angioplasty (HR = 2.3, p = 0.01), distal anastomosis in tibial vessels (HR = 3.6, p = 0.36), and the use of a composite graft (HR = 2.4, p = 0.01) were independently associated with loss of PP. The use of CSV in redo bypass is an effective strategy in salvaging threatened lower extremities and in preventing or delaying limb amputation. Our results confirm that further attempts at revascularization are generally appropriate, even in technically changing patients.

The value of Wound, Ischemia and foot Infection classification in patients undergoing endovascular therapy

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) Wound, Ischemia and foot infection (WIfI) classification system and clinical outcomes for 1-year limb amputation-free survival (AFS), freedom from reintervention, and wound healing rate in a cohort of patients affected by chronic limb-threatening ischemia treated exclusively by endovascular procedures. MethodsWe analyzed a prospective, consecutive cohort of 203 patients (203 limbs) who underwent infrainguinal endovascular revascularization at a single center between March 2018 and January 2021. These patients were stratified into clinical stages 1 to 4 based on the SVS WIfI classification and categorized into two groups: WIfI 1 to 3 (n = 101 limbs) and WIfI 4 (n = 102 limbs). The SVS objective performance goals of 1-year limb AFS, freedom from reintervention, and wound healing were compared between the groups and assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Angiographic lesion characteristics and angioplasty details were compared. ResultsThe average age was 72.4 years (44.3% male, 85.2% had hypertension, 80.3% had diabetes, and 87.7% had tissue loss). There were statistical differences between the groups in 1-year limb AFS Kaplan-Meier rate between WIfI clinical stages 1 to 3 group and WIfI clinical stage 4 group (82% vs 66%, respectively; P < .001), but there was no statistical difference in freedom from reintervention and wound healing rates between the groups (70% vs 64% [P = .62] and 74% vs 79% [P = .90], respectively). Owing to angiographic lesion characteristics, femoropopliteal and infrapopliteal segment distributions were similar between the groups, but there was a statistical difference in target lesion location to tibial vessels (55.4% vs 71.6%, respectively; P = .025). ConclusionsIn this cohort of patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia, SVS WIfI clinical stage 4 had worse results in the 1-year limb AFS rate, but there was no statistical difference in freedom from reintervention and wound healing rates between the groups.

Safety of free fibula flap harvest in IIIA and IIIB tibio-peroneal trunk variations

In head and neck cancer malignancies, free fibula flap is the gold standard for reconstruction of segmental bone defects owing to its predictable anatomy, long bone length, and feasibility for multiple osteotomies. However, sometimes because of variations in anatomy of tibio-peroneal trunk, it is a dilemma for the surgeons to use free fibula flap for reconstruction. This case series aimed to evaluate the safety of harvest of fibula in such cases in terms of acute and chronic donor-site complications. A retrospective study was conducted from January 2018 to May 2021. All the patients with tibio-peroneal trunk anomaly, diagnosed during surgery, who underwent successful harvest of the free fibula were included in the study and analyzed for the early major and minor donor wound complications, long-term donor complications, and late functional deficit using the Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI). Out of 714 free fibulae operated, 26 patients (3.6%) had such tibio-peroneal trunk variations: 22 (2.9%) cases of type III A and B anomalies and 4 (0.56%) cases of type III C anomalies. The average FADI score was 95.3%. No one had any difficulty in personal care and activity of daily living. The free fibula flap can be safely harvested in patients with type III A and B anomalies if vascularity of foot after clamping of peroneal vessels is good and anterior tibial vessels are normal.

The Peroneal Vessels as Recipient in Free Flaps for Defects near the Ankle: An Alternative to the Anterior Tibial Vessels

The Peroneal Vessels as Recipient in Free Flaps for Defects near the Ankle: An Alternative to the Anterior Tibial Vessels

Proximity of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation needle insertion to surrounding anatomic structures: a cadaveric study

Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation is a third-line treatment for overactive bladder and urgency urinary incontinence. During the procedure, a needle is inserted cephalad to the medial malleolus and posterior to the tibia. In recent years, permanent implants and leads have been developed for insertion into the medial ankle via a small incision. There are many important structures present in the medial compartment of the ankle, including the great saphenous vein, saphenous nerve, tibial nerve, posterior tibial vessels, and tendons of the posterior compartment leg muscles. The primary objective of this study was to identify the proximity of the percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation needle placed per Food and Drug Administration-approved device instructions to nearby important anatomic structures. The secondary objectives were to identify the proximity of the tibial nerve to the needle site, identify clinically relevant ankle anatomic structures, and confirm the tibial nerve and posterior tibial vasculature by histologic analysis. Detailed medial ankle dissections were performed bilaterally on 10 female lightly embalmed anatomic donors (cadavers) obtained from the Willed Body Program at the University of Louisville. A pin was inserted at the percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation needle site, and the medial ankle was minimally dissected so the surrounding anatomic structures were visible but not disrupted. The shortest distance from the pin to the selected structures of the medial ankle region was measured. On completion of each dissection and set of measurements, tissue was harvested for histologic examination. The distances between the pin and each structure were assessed using means and standard deviations. A paired t test was used to assess the difference in the locations between the left and right ankles. Statistical analysis was performed on left-sided, right-sided, and combined measurements. An 80% prediction interval was found to represent the expected range of values for the measurement of a new cadaver or patient, and the 95% confidence interval of the mean was computed to characterize the average distance across all cadavers or patients. The medial ankle of 10 adult female lightly embalmed cadavers were examined bilaterally. Dissections were completed from October 2021 to July 2022. Of note, 80% prediction intervals for the tibial nerve, the posterior tibial artery or vein, and the flexor digitorum longus tendon had a lower range of 0.0 mm from the pin and extending to 12.1, 9.5, and 13.9 mm, respectively. Moreover, 2 of the structures were found to be asymmetrical between the right and left ankles. The great saphenous vein was further from the pin on the left (20.5 mm [standard deviation of 6.4 mm] on the left vs 18.1 mm [standard deviation of 5.3 mm] on the right; P=.04). The calcaneal (Achilles) tendon was further from the pin on the right side (13.2 mm [standard deviation of 6.8 mm] vs 7.9 mm [standard deviation of 6.7 mm]; P=.04). Tibial neurovascular structures were confirmed with microscopic analysis. The anatomic structures within the medial ankle lie unexpectedly close to the percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation needle site as noted per Food and Drug Administration-approved device instructions. There is a possibility that some medial ankle structures are not symmetrical. It is crucial that practitioners understand medial ankle anatomy when performing percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation or permanent device insertion.

The Agonist-Antagonist Myoneural Interface in a Transtibial Amputation.

The agonist-antagonist myoneural interface (AMI) technique at the time of transtibial amputation involves the use of agonist-antagonist muscle pairs to restore natural contraction-stretch relationships and to improve proprioceptive feedback when utilizing a prosthetic limb1. Utilizing the standard incision for a long posterior myofasciocutaneous flap, the lateral and medial aspects of the limb are dissected, identifying and preserving the superficial peroneal and saphenous nerve, respectively. The tendons of the tibialis anterior and peroneus longus are transected distally to allow adequate length for the AMI constructs. After ligation of the anterior tibial vessels, the deep peroneal nerve is identified and tagged to create a regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI). The tibia and fibula are cut approximately 15 cm from the medial joint line, facilitating dissection of the deep posterior compartment and ligation of the peroneal and posterior tibial vessels. The tendons of the lateral gastrocnemius and tibialis posterior are transected distally, and the amputation is completed. The extensor retinaculum is harvested from the residual limb along with multiple 2 × 3-cm free muscle grafts, which will be used for the RPNI constructs. The retinaculum is secured to the tibia with suture anchors, and AMI pairs of the lateral gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior as well as the tibialis posterior and peroneus longus are constructed. Separate RPNIs of the major lower-extremity nerves are performed, and the wound is closed in a standard layered fashion. An isometric myodesis of the gastrocnemius without coaptation of agonist-antagonist muscle pairs can be performed at the time of transtibial amputation. The AMI technique restores natural agonist-antagonist relationships at the time of transtibial amputation to increase proprioceptive feedback and improve prosthetic control. These outcomes contrast with those of a traditional isometric myodesis, which prevents proprioceptive communication from the residual limb musculature to the central nervous system. Additionally, the AMI technique allows for concentric and eccentric muscular contractions, which may contribute to the maintenance of limb volume and aid with prosthetic fitting, as opposed to the typical limb atrophy observed following standard transtibial amputation1,2. With the development and availability of more advanced prostheses, the AMI technique offers more precise control and increases the functionality of these innovative devices. Early clinical outcomes of the AMI technique at the time of transtibial amputation have been promising. In a case series of the first 3 patients who underwent the procedure, complications were minor and consisted of 2 episodes of cellulitis and 1 case of delayed wound healing1. Muscle activation measured through electromyography demonstrated an improved ability to limit unintended muscular co-contraction with attempted movement of the phantom limb, as compared with patients who underwent a standard transtibial amputation1. Additionally, residual limb volume was maintained postoperatively without the need for substantial prosthetic modifications. The tendons of the tibialis anterior, peroneus longus, tibialis posterior, and lateral gastrocnemius should be transected as distal as possible to allow adequate length for creation of the AMI constructs.Approximately 2 × 3-cm free muscle grafts are harvested from the amputated extremity for RPNI3.Smooth tendon-gliding through the synovial tunnels should be confirmed before closure. If necessary, muscle debulking can improve gliding and decrease the size of the residual limb.Harvesting the extensor retinaculum for synovial tunnels has been our preferred method, although we acknowledge that other grafts options such as the tarsal tunnel are available1. RPNI = regenerative peripheral nerve interfaceAMI = agonist-antagonist myoneural interfaceEMG = electromyographic.

Clinical Characteristics of the Patient With Unmeasurable Ankle-Brachial Index in Endovascular Treatment.

Introduction Ankle-brachial index (ABI) is an important indicator to diagnose lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD). However, patients with unmeasurable ABI are sometimes excluded from the analysis and their clinical characteristics are poorly understood. Methods One hundred twenty-two consecutive Japanese subjects (mean age, 72 years), who underwent successful endovascular treatment (EVT) for lower extremity arteries at our hospital were retrospectively studied. Results Of the 122 patients, 23 (19%) patients presented an unmeasurable ABI before EVT. Five of 23 (22%) had still an unmeasurable ABI one day after EVT. Comorbidities including hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hemodialysis, smoking, ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and past-EVT history were not different between ABI measurable and unmeasurable patients. However, patients with unmeasurable ABI presented a significantly higher degree of Rutherford category and a smaller number of tibial vessel runoff than patients with measurable ABI before EVT (p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively). There was no difference in the lesion site between the two groups. The event rate including all-cause mortality, re-EVT, lower limb amputation, and bypass surgery did not differ between two groups four years after EVT. ABI after four years of initial EVT did not differ between pre-EVT measurable and unmeasurable patients (0.96 vs. 0.84, p=0.48). Conclusions Patients with unmeasurable ABI before EVT were characterized by higher degree of Rutherford categorization and a small number of tibial vessel runoff, but there was no significant difference in outcomes during the follow-up period.

Super-thin anterolateral thigh flap for reconstruction of the medial plantar artery perforator flap donor site.

The medial plantar artery perforator (MPAP) flap is widely used to reconstruct the weight-bearing area of the foot. Traditionally, its donor site is closed using a skin graft, which is associated with several complications, including walking disability. This study aimed to examine our experience with using a super-thin anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap to reconstruct the MPAP flap donor site. We examined 10 patients who underwent reconstruction of the MPAP flap donor site using a super-thin ALT flap between August 2019 and March 2021. The vascular pedicle was anastomosed to the proximal end of the medial plantar vessels or the end of the posterior tibial vessels. All reconstruction flaps survived and all patients were satisfied with the aesthetic appearance. No blisters, ulcerations, hyperpigmentation, or contractures occurred. All patients gained protective sensation in the super-thin ALT flap. The average visual analog scale score for the aesthetic appearance of the reconstructed foot was 8.5 ± 0.7 (range, 8-10). All patients were able to ambulate without aids and could wear regular shoes. The average revised Foot Function Index score was 26.4 ± 4.1 (range, 22-34). Reconstruction of the MPAP flap donor site using a super-thin ALT flap is reliable and provides satisfactory functional recovery, aesthetic appearance, and protective sensation while minimizing postoperative morbidity.

Free Tissue Transfer to the Knee for a Complex Wound Coverage When Good Recipient Vessels Are Not Available

Free tissue transfer to the knee can be difficult due to limited options for reliable recipient vessels and vein grafts or arteriovenous loops may also be associated with an increased risk of flap failure. In this study, the authors describe our experience with creating proper recipient vessels for free flap reconstructions around the knee using the descending branch (DB) of the lateral circumflex femoral vessels (LCFV) or anterior tibial vessels (ATV). Three patients underwent free flap reconstruction of knee wounds secondary to trauma, prosthesis infection, and radiation therapy. The anterolateral thigh, rectus abdominis, and latissimus dorsi flaps were used to close the wounds, respectively. Dissection of the DB of LCFV was carried between the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis, and between the peroneus longus and brevis for the ATV. These recipient's vessels were created and placed in a more desirable location adjacent to the defect for microvascular anastomoses. The DB of LCFV and ATV were dissected successfully and both arterial and venous micro-anastomose were performed in an end-to-end manner with the recipient's vessels. All patients had successful free tissue reconstructions with uneventful postoperative courses. The flaps remained viable and reliable soft tissue coverage with acceptable contour had been accomplished during follow-up. Either DB of LCFV or ATV can serve as adequate recipient vessels after being placed adjacently to soft tissue defects for a straightforward free tissue transfer to the knee. The creation of such recipient vessels avoids vein grafts or arteriovenous loops and allows for a reliable free flap reconstruction of the knee.

Intravascular ultrasound imaging for diagnosis and characterization of the popliteal compression syndrome.

Functional popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (fPAES) is a rare form of nonatherosclerotic claudication most often seen in young athletic patients. Diagnosis remains challenging, with various imaging modalities showing equivocal or subtle findings that may be missed. We sought to critically examine and quantitate the utility of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging, a common diagnostic tool for vascular compression syndromes, in diagnosis and characterization of fPAES. Patients presenting to a single tertiary care center between 2019 and 2022 with symptoms of PAES but without an anatomic etiology or equivocal workup were selected. Angiogram and IVUS with maneuvers were performed on affected extremities at rest, active plantarflexion/dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion/dorsiflexion against resistance. IVUS examination was recorded using a pull-back technique from the tibial vessels to the superficial femoral artery. The degree, length, and anatomic location of compression using the two imaging modalities were compared. Angiogram and IVUS with maneuvers were performed on 17 lower extremities (9 left, 8 right) in 15 patients (88% female; mean age, 21.2years). Evidence of arterial compression on angiography was noted in 88.2% (n= 15) of limbs (66.7% complete contrast cessation and 20% popliteal artery tapering); 13.3% (n= 2) only demonstrated sluggish flow as possible evidence of compression. Arterial compression was seen on IVUS imaging in 15 of 17 limbs, and all completely compressed around the IVUS catheter. The IVUS-measured mean length of compression was 10.5cm± 4.2 (median, 11cm; range, 4-23cm). Compression involved only the popliteal vessels in 86.7% (n= 13); one patient had both popliteal and tibioperoneal trunk compression, whereas another had tibioperoneal trunk and peroneal artery compression. Popliteal vein compression was 100%. The contrast cessation point on angiography and the proximal point of compression on IVUS imaging differed in 80% of cases (P< .05). The distal extent of compression was unable to be determined by angiogram findings but was clearly delineated by IVUS imaging in all cases. IVUS imaging is a more sensitive diagnostic and descriptive imaging modality compared with angiogram in patients with possible fPAES. IVUS and angiogram findings are greatly discordant; moreover, IVUS imaging can provide detailed information such as the precise extent and anatomic location of the arterial compression, which may be useful in aiding surgical planning. IVUS imaging should be considered the gold standard for diagnosing and characterizing fPAES before intervention planning.

FACTORS FAVORING PREFERENCE OF ARTERIOGRAPHY OVER CT ANGIOGRAPHY FOR PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE EVALUATION

Despite many advances in the quality and availability of less invasive arterial imaging modalities, arteriography remains the “gold standard.” This is a Prospective study which analyzes the factors favoring the preference of DSA over CTA in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Those patients with peripheral vascular disease undergoing DSA, who were initially planned for CTA and could not undergo CTA for various reasons were included. This study consists of 38 patients with most of them were males 29 (76%). In our study common factor for referral over CTA was renal dysfunction patients 18 out of 38 ( 47%), as contrast required in standard CTA for lower limb runoff is around 100ml and in our DSA average volume required is only 30ml because of target lesion arteriography with magnication. Next common factor was presence of heavy calcications in tibial vessel walls which hampers the evaluation of the CTA who were 37% of our study patients (14). Other factors were severe congestive Cardiac Failure, Previous Bone Plating/Nailing in leg bones and limb Contracture. With increasing incidences of diabetic patients with their associated diabetic nephropathy and heavy calcicated arteries, makes these patients more preferred for DSA than CTA due to its low contrast dose requirements and images free of calcication artefacts

Vascular Surgery Role in Vascular Trauma: 11-Year Analysis of Peripheral Vascular Trauma Management at a Level-1 Trauma Center

Vascular surgeons are increasingly relied upon in the management of complex peripheral vascular trauma. The degree however that vascular surgery (VS) is involved in vascular trauma care is not well established. We hypothesize that VS consultation is required in a high portion of complex lower extremity vascular trauma. A single-center retrospective review of all consecutive patients who sustained traumatic arterial injury of the lower extremity requiring open operative repair at a level-1 trauma center (from February 2009 to May 2020) was performed. Patients who underwent surgical repair were stratified by the service that performed the operation (VS versus trauma surgery [TS]). Secondary outcomes assessed included location of arterial injury, type of repair, and clinical outcomes. A total of 111 patients underwent operative repair of lower extremity arterial injury (mean age 34.5±15.5years, 89% male). The most common vessels requiring intervention were the superficial femoral artery (n=42, 38%), popliteal artery (n=35, 31.5%), and tibial vessels (n=19, 17.1%). The most common intervention required in patients was an autologous bypass (n=85, 76.5%), followed by ligation (n=9, 8.1%) and primary repair (n=6, 5.4%). Most interventions overall required VS involvement (n=95, 86%). VS performed a higher proportion of autologous graft procedures compared to TS (n=79, 92.9% vs. n=6, 7.1%). VS case load overall was likewise predominantly autologous grafts (n=79/95, 83.2%). TS operated on a higher proportion of injuries to the tibial vessels (44% vs. 13%, P=0.01), whereas VS intervened more frequently on popliteal injuries (36% vs. 6%, P=0.02). With regard to the method of arterial repair, TS was more likely to perform ligation (38% vs. 3 %, P<0.001) or primary repair (13% vs. 3%, P=0.04) compared to VS. However, VS was more likely to perform repair with autologous graft (83% vs. 38%, P<0.001). There were no significant differences in rates of mortality, limb loss, transfusions requirement, fasciotomy, deep venous thrombosis, hematoma formation, or length of stay between groups. Although, surgical site infections were more common in the TS group (38% vs. 15%, P=0.04). Vascular surgeons play a large role in managing complex lower extremity vascular trauma. In particular, VS remains integral for the management of more difficult injuries (e.g., popliteal injuries) and is more likely to provide more complex repairs (e.g., autologous grafts).

Acute Limb Ischemia in COVID-19 Patients: A Single University Center Experience.

Introduction Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is currently known to lead to high rates of thrombotic complications. Of those, acute limb ischemia (ALI) was most frequently reported. Several case reports or case series had already described high mortality and amputation rates. The purpose of our study was to highlight the epidemiological, clinical, and management characteristics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related ALI patients. Methods This was a monocentric, observational, and retrospective study. Records of all patients ≥18 years of age admitted with ALI and a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 infection between March 2020 and December 2021 were retrospectively examined. Data collected included demographics, co-morbidities, biological findings, COVID-19 pneumonia and ALI severity, anatomical location of arterial thromboembolism, treatments, and outcomes. Results During the study period, 22 patients with ALI infected with COVID-19 were evaluated. The median age was 67 years (45-88) and 18 (81.8%) were men. The main comorbidities were diabetes mellitus (36.4%), smoking (22.7%), and arterial hypertension (18.2%). All 22 patients were already diagnosed positive for SARS-CoV-2. The median duration between COVID-19 diagnosis and ALI symptom onset was six days (1-13 days). The computed tomography (CT) extent of pulmonary lesions was assessed according to the French Society of Chest Imaging. The ischemic syndrome was classified on Rutherford Stage IIA (30.4%) and IIB (43.5%). Regarding thrombotic locations, ALI had occurred essentially in the lower limbs (95% vs. 5%). A revascularization procedure was performed in 14 patients (63.6%) of the patients, and primary amputation was unavoidable in five patients (22.7%). Three patients (13.6%) did not undergo operative management, two because of their hemodynamic instability and one rejected surgery. We performed 23 revascularization procedures for 14 patients and three primary amputations. Thromboembolectomy (TE) was the technique of choice (92.8%). Below-the-knee (BTK) femoropopliteal bypass was performed in one patient. Selective tibial vessel thrombectomy was performed in four patients (28.6%). The mortality rate was 27.3%. Among survivors, two secondary amputations were needed with a limb salvage rate of 68.2%. Conclusion By the apparent end of the pandemic, our study further supports the increased risk of ALI in COVID-19-positive patients. Moreover, the results affirm the unfavorable outcomes highly impacted by rethrombosis, reinterventions, and consequently high rates of amputations and mortality.

Secondary endovascular procedures improve overall patency and limb salvage in patients undergoing in situ saphenous vein infragenicular bypass.

Secondary interventions strongly improves patency and limb salvage rates in patients undergoing infrainguinal vein bypass. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of secondary endovascular procedures performed during the follow-up on patency and limb salvage in patients with critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) undergoing in situ saphenous vein infragenicular bypass. From January 2018 to December 2019 541 patients in 43 centers have been enrolled into the LIMBSAVE registry (treatment of critical Limb IschaeMia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique). In all patients a strict surveillance program with Duplex scan was established (1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24 months). During the follow-up indications for endovascular procedures were anastomotic stenoses, improvement of run-in (iliac stenosis) or run-off (tibial vessels' stenoses or occlusions). Two-year estimated outcomes in terms of overall patency, and limb salvage were analyzed by life-table analysis (Kaplan-Meier test). Outcomes obtained in patients undergoing endovascular procedure (Group-endo) were compared by means of Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon Test with those obtained in patients with no secondary endovascular procedure during the follow-up (Group-no endo). Two groups were homogeneous in terms of demographics and intraprocedural details. Overall mean duration of follow-up was 12.1 months (range 1-24). During the follow-up period (>30 days) 55 endovascular procedures were performed in 49 patients (9.1%) (Group-endo). Most of endovascular procedures (37/55, 67.3%) was performed to treat stenoses at proximal or distal anastomosis. Secondary endovascular procedures (40/55, 72.7%) were predominantly performed within 6 months from the index procedure. Estimated 2-year overall patency (97.9% vs. 85.2%, P=0.05), and limb salvage (100% vs. 93.9%, P=0.05) rates were significantly better in Group-endo. Secondary endovascular procedures in patients with CLTI undergoing in situ saphenous infragenicular bypass significantly improve the rates of overall patency and limb salvage in the mid-term period.

A comprehensive study on Regional Anatomy of Adho Shaakhaagata Maamsa Marma by Cadaver Dissection and their Applied Anatomy

Marma is the meeting point where Mamsa, Sira, Snayu, Asthi and Sandhi along with Prana resides which on injury produce death or death like miseries. Maamsa Marma is one such category based on predominant Marma Vasthu. They are eleven in number. Among them four are present in Adho Shakhaa i.e., two Talahrudaya and two Indrabasthi. Talahrudaya Marma is located in the middle of Paada in the line of middle finger, which on injury causes Ruja and Marana. Indrbasthi Marma is located in the middle of Janghain the side of Paarshni and it causes death due to Shonitha Kshaya. Both of them are Kaalantarapraanahara Marmas. Methods: Literature regarding Marma and its Viddhalakshana were collected from various sources and its Viddha Lakshanas are analysed scientifically. Anatomical structures found in the region of Adhoshakhaagata Maamsa Marmas were confirmed with the help of cadaveric dissection in five bodies. Results: Muscles of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th, layer of the sole, Medial &amp; lateral plantar nerves, deep plantar arch, shielded by thick layer of skin, superficial facia and plantar aponeurosis are the important structures present in the Talahrudaya Marma Sthaana. Superficial &amp; deep calf muscles, posterior tibial vessels, peroneal vessels, tibial nerve and short saphenous nerve are the important structures present in the Indrabasthi Marma Pradesha. The Viddha Lakshanas are analyzed with applied aspects of these regions. Conclusion: Centre of the sole along the line of middle finger can be considered as the region of Talahrudaya Marma which on injury results in Ruja &amp; Marana. Indrabasthi Marma is located in the middle of the Jangha (calf) in the side of Paarshni (heel) about 12 Angula above heel, which on injury results in Shonitha Kshaya &amp; Marana.

A DOUBLE HIT: EMERGENT GUILLOTINE AMPUTATIONS DUE TO TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME ASSOCIATED NECROTIZING FASCIITIS IN THE SETTING OF A VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE AND PHARYNGITIS

A DOUBLE HIT: EMERGENT GUILLOTINE AMPUTATIONS DUE TO TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME ASSOCIATED NECROTIZING FASCIITIS IN THE SETTING OF A VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICE AND PHARYNGITIS

The Combination of Vacuum-Assisted Thromboaspiration and Covered Stent Graft for Acute Limb Ischemia due to Thromboembolic Complications of Popliteal Aneurysm

We present a standardized protocol of endovascular revascularization for patients with acute limb ischemia due to popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) thromboembolic complication, based on the combination of vacuum-assisted thromboaspiration to improve tibiopedal outflow and covered stent graft to exclude the PAA. All patients with a diagnosis of PAA complicated by thromboembolic events undergoing total endovascular rescue were prospectively enrolled in a dedicated database from November 2018 to November 2021. To assess vessel patency, the TIPI (Thromboaspiration In Peripheral Ischemia) classification was used. The primary end point was the primary technical success (at least one tibial vessel with a TIPI flow of 2 or 3). The 30-day overall mortality and amputation rates were considered as secondary end points. Patients' overall survival, limb salvage, freedom from reocclusion and reinterventions were reported as secondary late outcomes using Kaplan-Meier method. Seventeen male patients were enrolled with a mean age of 75.7±9years. Rutherford grading score was IIa in 52.9% (9/17) and IIb in 47.1% (8/17). PAA mean diameter was 37.4±11.2mm. All patients had tibial arteries involvement, and in 9 cases (52.9%) there was also the occlusion of the PAA. Mechanical thrombectomy with Indigo/Penumbra thromboaspiration system was used in all patients. PAAs were excluded using one or more VIABAHN covered endografts (range 1-3 pieces). Technical success was achieved in 94.1%. Fasciotomy was performed in 1 case (5.9%). Mortality and amputation rates at 30-day follow-up were respectively 0% and 5.9%. Survival rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were respectively 94.1%, 86.3%, and 67.9%. Secondary patency was achieved in all cases (100%). Freedom from reintervention was 80.4%, 65.8%, and 54.8% at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up. Limb salvage was 88.2% at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up, respectively. Although preliminary, our experience of total endovascular rescue for complicated PAA with thromboembolic events highlighted promising rates of limb salvage at 30 days after intervention. The total endovascular approach seems able to maximize tibiopedal outflow offering an interesting strategy in limb salvage.

Dissection and Permissible Levels of Proximal Mobilization of Anterior Tibial Vessels During Island Flaps Transfer

The article presents a discussion with the authors of a previously published article (Zelyanin D.A. et al. Features of the Extraction of the Anterior Tibial Vessels in the Formation of Vascularized Bone Grafts. Traumatology and Orthopedics of Russia. 2022. Vol. 28, No 1. p. 89-99), as well as on the basis of our own topographic and anatomical studies, the information about the details of the topography of the branches of the anterior tibial vascular bundle (ATVB) and the permissible levels of its proximal mobilization during island flaps transfer are justified.&#x0D; Topographic and anatomical study was performed on 32 non-fixed speciments of the lower extremities for substantiating plastic surgery with island skin flaps isolated on ATVB. The arterial bed of the lower leg was injected with black natural latex Revultex, followed by precision dissection and measurements of all branches of the anterior tibial artery (ATA) with a diameter of 0.3 mm or more using a binocular magnifier with a magnification of 3.3 times. All the studied branches of ATA were identified, the number of which varied from 26 to 49 (on average 38.53.2), and 88.7% of them went to the three muscles of the anterior group of the lower leg. At the same time, the average numbers of ATA branches departing in each of the 10% intervals of the length of the lower leg were determined, and the average total values of the cross-sectional area of arterial branches in these intervals were calculated. It was found that from 28% to 39% of the total cross-section of all branches of the ATA are localized in the first and second 10% intervals of the length of the lower leg, which makes it possible to justify the proximal limit of the mobilization of the ATVB. Reasonable criteria for choosing the level of proximal mobilization of the ATVB are: the location of the mobilization border is not higher than the level of the upper 20% of the length of the lower leg, the assignment of this border, at least 6 cm distal from the exit of the anterior tibial vessels into the anterior bone fascial sheath of the lower leg and the preservation of at least four feeding vascular bundles extending from the ATVB to the tibialis anterior muscle (two bundles) and to the extensor digitorum longus muscle (two bundles).

Preliminary Clinical Validation Results of a Deep Learning Approach for Ankle Brachial Index Prediction in Noncompressible Tibial Vessels

The ankle brachial index (ABI) is limited by its inability to derive accurate values for noncompressible tibial vessels owing to falsely elevated readings. We have presented the preliminary clinical testing results of a deep learning approach to predict the ABI ranges directly from Doppler sounds for patients with noncompressible tibial vessels with high accuracy and the goal of alleviating the current limitations in ABI measurements.