Prevalence of abnormal upper limb arterial anatomy and its correlation with access failure during transradial coronary angiography

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed at to find out prevalence of abnormal upper limb arterial anatomy and its correlation with access failure during transradial coronary angiography.

METHOD

This was a prospective observational study of 1512 patients who had undergone transradial coronary angiography (CAG). Angiographic assessment of upper limb arterial tree was performed when the angiographic guidewire or the diagnostic catheter followed an abnormal path or got stuck in its course.

RESULTS

About 5.29% patients (80/1512) were noted to have abnormal upper limb arterial anatomy. The most common abnormality detected were radio-ulnar loop in 22 (1.46%) patients, tortuous upper limb arteries 19 (1.25%) and abnormal high origin of radial artery 10 (0.66%) patients. Access failure was encountered in 4.4% (67/1512) of total patients and 64.17% (43/67) access failure was due to abnormal upper limb arterial anatomy.

CONCLUSION

Abnormal upper limb arterial anatomy was the most common cause of access failure in transradial coronary angiography in this study.

Diffuse Venous Malformations of the Upper Extremity (Bockenheimer Disease): Diagnosis and Management

BACKGROUND

Diffuse venous malformations that involve all tissues in the upper limb and ipsilateral chest wall are known as "phlebectasia of Bockenheimer." The authors describe their experience with management of this uncommon vascular anomaly.

METHODS

The authors' Vascular Anomalies Center registry comprised 18,766 patients over a 40-year period. This review identified 2036 patients with venous malformations of the extremities (10.8 percent), of whom only 80 (0.43 percent) had Bockenheimer disease. The authors retrospectively analyzed patient characteristics, diagnostics, treatments, and complications.

RESULTS

The venous malformation was first noted at birth or within the first few years of life with slow and gradual progression. Pain was related to engorgement of the limb. Thromboses and phleboliths were common, but diffuse intravascular coagulopathy occurred in only 12 patients (15 percent). Skeletal involvement was demonstrated as lytic lesions, cortical scalloping, osteopenia, and pathologic fractures. Management included compression garments (100 percent), sclerotherapy (27.5 percent), and resection of symptomatic areas in 35 percent of patients. Adjunctive pharmacologic medication was given in 7.5 percent. Following resection, 17 patients (60 percent) had one or more complications: hematoma, wound dehiscence, flap loss, contracture, and psychosis. There were no deaths. Symptoms improved in all patients with useful functional outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The decision to pursue compression, sclerotherapy, pharmacologic treatment, or resection alone or in combination was made by an interdisciplinary team. Although extensive venous malformations cannot be completely ablated, debulking of symptomatic regions, resection of neuromas, and noninvasive treatments improve the quality of life. Despite the bulk and weight of the arm, forearm, and hand, and the ominous appearance on magnetic resonance imaging, these patients remain functional.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, V.

Arteriovenous Access superficialization: A New Technique and Review of Options

BACKGROUND

Up to 30% of autogenous cephalic vein arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are too deep for reliable cannulation. Techniques to superficialize these AVFs have been described previously. This study describes a new surgical technique for AVF superficialization and provides a review of the alternative techniques.

METHODS

The path of the fistula is marked using ultrasound, and transverse incisions are made along this path. The underlying tissue is separated from the dermis over this area to expose the fistula outflow vein. The mobilized vein is then elevated and "trapped" directly under the dermis by closing the superficial fascia and adipose tissue beneath it.

RESULTS

Between March 2016 and February 2019, 23 patients underwent superficialization using this technique at two centers. The mean time between AVF creation and superficialization was 6.3 months, and the time to first use for hemodialysis after superficialization was 38.8 ± 27.9 days. The average presuperficialization depth was 7.1 ± 2.4 mm and average postsuperficialization depth was 3.7 ± 2.7 mm (P = 0.002). Sixteen fistulas were successfully accessed for a cannulation rate of 89%. 94.7% of fistulas remained patent at last visit, with only one thrombosed 8-10 weeks after superficialization.

CONCLUSIONS

This technique appears to be both safe and effective, and results in a vein that is immediately subdermal without major contour deformity. Early outcomes are comparable to those alternative methods described in the literature.

Distal revascularization and interval ligation for dialysis access-related ischemia is best performed using arm vein conduit

OBJECTIVE

Distal revascularization and interval ligation (DRIL) is an effective approach to the management of hemodialysis access-related ischemia that offers both symptom relief and access salvage. The great saphenous vein (GSV) has been the most commonly used conduit. However, the use of an ipsilateral arm vein will allow for performance of the operation with the patient under regional anesthesia and might result in lower harvest site morbidity than the GSV. We sought to determine the suitability of DRIL using an arm vein compared with a GSV conduit.

METHODS

All patients who had undergone DRIL from 2008 to 2019 were retrospectively identified in the electronic medical records. The characteristics and outcomes of those with an arm vein vs a GSV conduit were compared using the Wilcoxon log-rank and χ² tests. Access patency was examined using Kaplan-Meier methods, with censoring at lost to follow-up or death.

RESULTS

A total of 66 patients who had undergone DRIL for hand ischemia were included in the present study. An arm vein conduit was used in 40 patients (median age, 65 years; 25% male) and a GSV conduit in 26 patients (median age, 58 years; 19% male). No significant differences in comorbidities were found between the two groups, with the exception of diabetes mellitus (arm vein group, 78%; GSV group, 50% GSV; P = .02). No difference in the ischemia stage at presentation was present between the groups, with most patients presenting with stage 3 ischemia. Also, no differences in patency of hemodialysis access after DRIL between the two groups were found (P = .96). At 12 and 24 months after DRIL, 86.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 68.3%-94.9%) and 82.0% (95% CI, 61.3%-92.3%) of patients with an arm vein conduit had access patency compared with 93.8% (95% CI, 63.2%-99.1%) and 76.9% (95% CI, 43.0%-92.2%) of those with a GSV conduit, respectively. All but one patient had symptom resolution. The incidence of wound complications was significantly greater in the GSV group than in the arm vein group (46% vs 11%; P = .003). DRIL bypass had remained patent in all but one patient in each group, with a median follow-up of 18 months (range, 1-112 months) in the arm vein conduit group and 15 months (range, 0.25-105 months) in the GSV conduit group.

CONCLUSIONS

DRIL procedures using an arm vein have advantages over those performed with the GSV. In our series, symptom resolution and access salvage were similar but distinctly fewer wound complications had occurred in the arm vein group. Additionally, the use of an arm vein conduit avoids the need for general anesthesia. If an ipsilateral arm vein is available, it should be the conduit of choice when performing DRIL.

Drug-Coated Balloons for Dysfunctional Dialysis Arteriovenous Fistulas

BACKGROUND

Standard percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is the current recommended treatment for dysfunctional hemodialysis fistulas, yet long-term outcomes of this treatment are poor. Drug-coated balloons delivering the antirestenotic agent paclitaxel may improve outcomes.

METHODS

In this prospective, single-blinded, 1:1 randomized trial, we enrolled 330 participants at 29 international sites. Patients with new or restenotic lesions in native upper-extremity arteriovenous fistulas were eligible for participation. After successful high-pressure percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, participants were randomly assigned to receive treatment with a drug-coated balloon or a standard balloon. The primary effectiveness end point was target-lesion primary patency, defined as freedom from clinically driven target-lesion revascularization or access-circuit thrombosis during the 6 months after the index procedure. The primary safety end point, serious adverse events involving the arteriovenous access circuit within 30 days, was assessed in a noninferiority analysis (margin of noninferiority, 7.5 percentage points). The primary analyses included all participants with available end-point data. Additional sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the effect of missing data.

RESULTS

A total of 330 participants underwent randomization; 170 were assigned to receive treatment with a drug-coated balloon, and 160 were assigned to receive treatment with a standard balloon. During the 6 months after the index procedure, target-lesion primary patency was maintained more often in participants who had been treated with a drug-coated balloon than in those who had been treated with a standard balloon (82.2% [125 of 152] vs. 59.5% [88 of 148]; difference in risk, 22.8 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.8 to 32.8; P<0.001). Drug-coated balloons were noninferior to standard balloons with respect to the primary safety end point (4.2% [7 of 166] and 4.4% [7 of 158], respectively; difference in risk, -0.2 percentage points; 95% CI, -5.5 to 5.0; P = 0.002 for noninferiority). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the results of the primary analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Drug-coated balloon angioplasty was superior to standard angioplasty for the treatment of stenotic lesions in dysfunctional hemodialysis arteriovenous fistulas during the 6 months after the procedure and was noninferior with respect to access circuit-related serious adverse events within 30 days. (Funded by Medtronic; IN.PACT AV Access Study ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03041467.).

Preoperative color Doppler ultrasound parameters for surgical decision-making in upper arm arteriovenous fistula maturation

OBJECTIVE

Current scientific evidence is insufficient to determine the best vascular access for each patient. It is an unmet clinical need because vascular access dysfunction accounts for 20% to 30% of hospital admissions. Our aim was to evaluate preoperative color flow Doppler ultrasound (CDUS)-derived parameters (vein diameter and brachial artery flow and diameter) and their effect interaction with comorbidities as predictors of brachiocephalic (BC) and brachiobasilic (BB) arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation.

METHODS

A prospective analysis was performed of patients who underwent BC and BB AVF as primary definitive vascular access between January 2016 and May 2017. Variables included patients' demographics, comorbidities, medication, preoperative blood pressure, and CDUS-derived parameters. Outcomes were patency 48 hours after surgery and fistula maturation at 6 and 12 weeks. Nonparametric descriptive and univariate statistics were used. Logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed.

RESULTS

There were 132 patients (91 with BC AVF and 41 with BB AVF) included. The 48-hour patency was 91.7%. AVF maturation at 6 weeks was observed in 71.3%, and AVF maturation at 12 weeks was observed in 66.3%. There were no associations in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis between AVF maturation and comorbidities. Systolic blood pressure was an independent predictor of 48-hour patency with an optimized cutoff of 154 mm Hg (area under the curve, 0.73; P = .013; Youden index, 0.40). Vein diameter with tourniquet was an independent predictor of AVF maturation at 6 and 12 weeks with an optimized cutoff of 3.9 mm (area under the curve, 0.74; P < .001; Youden index, 0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

AVF maturation was independent of comorbidities. Systolic blood pressure ≥154 mm Hg and vein diameter with tourniquet ≥3.9 mm were the associated conditions that better predicted BC and BB AVF maturation. There were no effect interactions between CDUS-derived parameters and associated comorbidities.

"Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Not Just the Bowel's Bane": Peripheral Arterial and Venous Thrombosis in a Patient With Crohn Disease

INTRODUCTION

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic multisystem inflammatory condition with associated endothelial dysfunction and dysregulated coagulation. Although deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in IBD has been well described, arterial thrombosis and thromboembolism are less commonly appreciated.

METHODS

A 63-year-old male with a known history of Crohn disease presented with acute-onset right arm pain. His past vascular history was significant for left lower extremity DVT with an existing inferior vena cava filter and acute ischemia of the right lower extremity requiring a below-knee amputation a year ago. Imaging revealed acute brachial, ulnar, and radial artery thrombosis.

RESULTS

Patient underwent an open right brachial, radial, and ulnar thrombectomy to restore vascular flow. He required multiple exploration and thrombectomy for reocclusion of the vessels in the early postoperative period. He later developed a rapidly deteriorating clinical status, flank ecchymosis and swelling concerning for soft tissue ischemia, and compartment syndrome heralding an eventual hemodynamic collapse. On exploration, he was found to have chronic fibrosis of his left femoral vein and femoral artery occlusion. Clinically, the patient deteriorated rapidly, which resulted in his demise.

CONCLUSION

The inflammatory reaction in IBD leads to arterial stiffening and hypercoagulability, which should theoretically increase the risk for vascular disease. Although the link between IBD and DVT is well established, arterial thrombosis and thromboembolism remain widely debated, with some implications for therapeutic intervention. The link between vascular thrombosis and IBD must be examined further, as the treatment and prevention of vascular complications in IBD depends on our understanding of this relationship.

Association between interarm blood pressure differences and diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The effect of interarm blood pressure difference on the development of diabetic retinopathy, proteinuria and chronic kidney disease remains unknown. We investigated to determine the impact of interarm blood pressure difference on the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, proteinuria and chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

The study included 563 patients with diabetes, who were evaluated with a simultaneous bilateral blood pressure measurement. The cutoff values for interarm blood pressure difference were 5, 10 and 15 mmHg. Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the relation between interarm blood pressure difference and diabetic retinopathy, proteinuria and chronic kidney disease.

RESULTS

Diabetic patients with systolic interarm blood pressure difference ⩾5, ⩾10 and ⩾15 mmHg showed an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy [adjusted odds ratio = 1.48 (95% confidence interval = 1.01-2.18), odds ratio = 1.80 (95% confidence interval = 0.99-3.22), odds ratio = 2.29 (95% confidence interval = 1.00-5.23)] after adjustment. There were significant associations between interarm blood pressure difference ⩾5 and ⩾10 mmHg and proteinuria [odds ratio = 1.68 (95% confidence interval = 1.15-2.44), 1.89 (95% confidence interval = 1.05-3.37)].

CONCLUSION

The association between interarm blood pressure difference and the presence of diabetic retinopathy emerged even for systolic interarm blood pressure difference ⩾5 mmHg without interaction of systolic blood pressure. Systolic interarm blood pressure difference should be considered a surrogate marker for vascular complication in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Intravenous drug use history is not associated with poorer outcomes after arteriovenous access creation

OBJECTIVE

Rising intravenous drug use (IVDU) paralleled with an increasing dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease population may pose a challenge for creating and maintaining arteriovenous (AV) access for hemodialysis. We aimed to elucidate baseline characteristics and outcomes of AV access creation in the IVDU population.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative (2011-2018) was queried for patients undergoing AV access placement. Univariable and multivariable analyses comparing outcomes of patients with and without IVDU history were performed.

RESULTS

Of 33,404 patients undergoing AV access creation, 601 (1.8%) had IVDU history (21.8% current and 78.2% past users). IVDU patients receiving AV access were more often younger, male, nonwhite, smokers, homeless, Medicaid recipients, and hospitalized at the time of surgery (P < .001 for all). They exhibited higher rates of congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (P < .05 for all). They more frequently had tunneled catheters at the time of access creation (53.6% vs 42%; P < .001) and had a previous AV access (25.3% vs 21.7%; P = .002). IVDU patients more often received prosthetic AV grafts (28.6% vs 18%; P < .001) and more often had anastomoses created to basilic veins (33.1% vs 23.2%; P < .001) but less often to cephalic veins (36.8% vs 57.7%; P < .001). IVDU patients had longer postoperative length of stay (2 ± 6 days vs 0.9 ± 5 days; P < .001) but no significant difference in 30-day mortality (1.7% vs 1.2%; P = .3). Comparing IVDU vs no IVDU cohorts, 1-year access infection-free survival (85.4% vs 86.6%; P = .382), primary patency loss-free survival (39.5% vs 37.9%; P = .335), endovascular/open reintervention-free survival (58% vs 57%; P = .705), and overall survival (89.7% vs 88.9%; P = .635) were similar. On multivariable analysis, IVDU was independently associated with postoperative length of stay (odds ratio, 1.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.35-2; P < .001) but not with 30-day mortality or 1-year infection-free survival, primary patency loss-free survival, reintervention-free survival, and all-cause mortality. The null results were confirmed in a propensity score-matched cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

IVDU history was uncommon among patients undergoing AV access creation at Vascular Quality Initiative centers and was not independently associated with major morbidity or mortality postoperatively. IVDU patients more often received grafts or autogenous access with anastomoses to basilic veins. Although these patients frequently have more comorbidities, IVDU should not deter AV access creation.

Higher body mass index is associated with reinterventions and lower maturation rates after upper extremity arteriovenous access creation

OBJECTIVE

A patient's body mass index (BMI) can affect both perioperative and postoperative outcomes across all surgical specialties. Given that obesity and end-stage renal disease are growing in prevalence, we aimed to evaluate the association between BMI and outcomes of upper extremity arteriovenous (AV) access creation.

METHODS

A retrospective single-institution review was conducted for AV access creations from 2014 to 2018. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and AV access details were recorded. BMI groups were defined as normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m²), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m²), obese (30-39.9 kg/m²), and morbidly obese (>40 kg/m²). Perioperative complications and long-term outcomes including access maturation (defined as access being used for hemodialysis or the surgeon's judgment that access was ready for use in patients not yet on hemodialysis), occlusion, and reintervention were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 611 upper extremity AV access creations were performed on patients who were normal weight (29.6%), overweight (31.3%), obese (29.6%), and morbidly obese (9.5%). Access type included brachiocephalic (43.2%), brachiobasilic (25.5%), and radiocephalic (14.2%) fistulas and AV grafts (14.2%). Median age was 60.9 years, and 59.6% were male. Univariable analysis showed no difference between BMI groups for perioperative steal, hematoma, home discharge, or 30-day primary patency. Freedom from reintervention at 2 years on Kaplan-Meier analysis differed by BMI (44.5% ± 4.6% normal weight, 29% ± 3.8% overweight, 39.8% ± 4.3% obese, 34.7% ± 8% morbidly obese; P = .041). There was no difference in 2-year freedom from new access creation or survival. AV access maturity within 180 days differed between BMI groups (74.3% normal weight, 66% overweight, 65.7% obese, 46.6% morbidly obese; P < .001). On multivariable analysis, failure to mature within 180 days was associated with overweight (odds ratio [OR], 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-3.29; P = .002), obese (OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.19-3.47; P = .009), and morbidly obese (OR, 3.68; 95% CI, 1.85-7.3; P < .001) relative to normal weight BMI. AV access reintervention was associated with overweight (hazard ratio [HR], 1.83; 95% CI, 1.34-2.5), obese (HR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.12-2.16), and morbidly obese (HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.1-2.58; P = .02) relative to normal weight BMI. BMI was not independently associated with long-term readmission or survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with higher rates of AV access failure to mature and reintervention. Surgeons performing access creation on obese patients must consider this for planning and setting expectations. Weight loss assistance may need to be incorporated into treatment algorithms.

Single-stage basilic vein transposition-An effective and viable autogenous access for dialysis

INTRODUCTION

The National Kidney Foundation's/Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative recommends autogenous arteriovenous fistulas as the preferred method for long-term hemodialysis access. Basilic vein transposition is not only an alternative in patients with failed arteriovenous access but also can be the first option for arteriovenous access in patients with inadequate cephalic vein. Several studies have shown better patency rates, cost-effectiveness, and fewer complications of autogenous access over prosthetic arteriovenous grafts.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To analyze patency, complication rates, and outcomes of single-stage basilic vein transposition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-center retrospective non-randomized study conducted at Ramaiah Medical College and Hospitals, Bangalore from July 2015 to June 2018. A total of 94 consented patients who underwent single-stage basilic vein transposition were included in the study. All the surgeries were done in a single stage under regional anesthesia. All the complications and patency rates were calculated at the end of one year. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, and patency rates were assessed using the Kaplan-Meir survival curve.

RESULTS

A total of 94 single-stage basilic vein transposition was performed. Fifty-four patients had a previous failed autogenous access and 40 had either absent or thrombosed cephalic vein. The mean age was 56.6 years with 59.57% males. The mean basilic vein and brachial artery diameter was 3.6 and 3.8 mm, respectively. The primary patency rate at one year was 84%. Edema and thrombosis were the most common complication in our study.

CONCLUSION

Single-stage basilic vein transposition is a feasible surgical option in end-stage renal disease patients and provides durable autogenous access with very reasonable outcomes in terms of complication rates and patency rates.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection and the Upper Limb Deep Vein Thrombosis Risk

Little or nothing is known about the correlation between the upper limb deep vein thrombosis (UL-DVT) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS–CoV-2). We describe the increased risk of UL-DVT in 3 patients with SARS–CoV-2 who require continuous positive airway pressure with a hood and the need for early adequate antithrombotic prophylaxis.

Correlation of Central with Jugular and Upper-limb Venous Pressure Measurements

BACKGROUND

Correlation data of different external reference points and methods used to measure venous pressures are scarce in the literature. We correlated central venous pressure with jugular venous pressure measured from sternal angle and with jugular and upper-limb venous pressures from zero level corresponding to mid-right-atrium level.

METHODS

A hospital-based observational study in the medical and surgical intensive care units was conducted for period of one year. Central venous pressure was measured from right fourth intercostal space in mid-axillary line and jugular venous pressure from sternal angle and jugular and upper-limb venous pressures from horizontal plane through the midpoint of anteroposterior line from anterior end of right fourth intercostal space to back. We measured central venous pressure by central venous cannulation and jugular and upper-limb venous pressures clinically by JVP Meter®. Upper-limb venous pressure was indicated by collapse of visible veins in dorsum of hands as the arm was slowly raised from dependent position.

RESULTS

Correlation coefficient (r) values were 0.61 between central venous pressure and jugular venous pressure from zero level, 0.48 between central venous pressure and jugular venous pressure from sternal angle, and 0.31 between central and upper-limb venous pressures; and 0.67 and 0.50 between central venous pressure measured from right internal jugular vein and jugular venous pressure from zero level and sternal angle respectively and 0.52 and 0.44 between central venous pressure from right sub-clavian vein and jugular venous pressure from zero level and sternal angle respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Different correlation values indicate the need to have future investigations and consensus on the common external reference point and methods to measure venous pressures.

Super Wide-Field Photoacoustic Microscopy of Animals and Humans In Vivo

Acoustic-resolution photoacoustic micro-scopy (AR-PAM) is an emerging biomedical imaging modality that combines superior optical sensitivity and fine ultrasonic resolution in an optical quasi-diffusive regime (~1-3 mm in tissues). AR-PAM has been explored for anatomical, functional, and molecular information in biological tissues. Heretofore, AR-PAM systems have suffered from a limited field-of-view (FOV) and/or slow imaging speed, which have precluded them from routine preclinical and clinical applications. Here, we demonstrate an advanced AR-PAM system that overcomes both limitations of previous AR-PAM systems. The new AR-PAM system demonstrates a super wide-field scanning that utilized a 1-axis water-proofing microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) scanner integrated with two linear stepper motor stages. We achieved an extended FOV of 36 ×80 mm² by mosaicking multiple volumetric images of 36 ×2.5 mm² with a total acquisition time of 224 seconds. For one volumetric data (i.e., 36 ×2.5 mm²), the B-scan imaging speed over the short axis (i.e., 2.5 mm) was 83 Hz in humans. The 3D volumetric image was also provided by using MEMS mirror scanning along the X-axis and stepper-motor scanning along the Y-axis. The super-wide FOV mosaic image was realized by registering and merging all individual volumetric images. Finally, we obtained multi-plane whole-body in-vivo PA images of small animals, illustrating distinct multi-layered structures including microvascular networks and internal organs. Importantly, we also visualized microvascular networks in human fingers, palm, and forearm successfully. This advanced MEMS-AR-PAM system could potentially enable hitherto not possible wide preclinical and clinical applications.

Vascularization of the arteriovenous fistula wall and association with maturation outcomes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The venous vasa vasorum is the mesh of microvessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the walls of large veins. Whether changes to the vasa vasorum have any effects on human arteriovenous fistula outcomes remains undetermined. In this study, we challenged the hypothesis that inadequate vascularization of the arteriovenous fistula wall is associated with maturation failure.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, AND MEASUREMENTS

This case-control pilot study includes pre-access veins and arteriovenous fistula venous samples (i.e. tissue pairs) from 30 patients undergoing two-stage arteriovenous fistula creation (15 matured and 15 failed to mature). Using anti-CD31 immunohistochemistry, we quantified vasa vasorum density and luminal area (vasa vasorum area) in the intima, media, and adventitia of pre-access veins and fistulas. We evaluated the association of pre-existing and postoperative arteriovenous fistula vascularization with maturation failure and with postoperative morphometry.

RESULTS

Vascularization of veins and arteriovenous fistulas was predominantly observed in the outer media and adventitia. Only the size of the microvasculature (vasa vasorum area), but not the number of vessels (vasa vasorum density), increased after arteriovenous fistula creation in the adventitia (median vasa vasorum area 1366 µm2/mm2 (interquartile range 495-2582) in veins versus 3077 µm2/mm2 (1812-5323) in arteriovenous fistulas, p < 0.001), while no changes were observed in the intima and media. Postoperative intimal thickness correlated with lower vascularization of the media (r 0.53, p = 0.003 for vasa vasorum density and r 0.37, p = 0.045 for vasa vasorum area). However, there were no significant differences in pre-existing, postoperative, or longitudinal change in vascularization between arteriovenous fistulas with distinct maturation outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The lack of change in intimal and medial vascularization after arteriovenous fistula creation argues against higher oxygen demand in the inner walls of the fistula during the vein to arteriovenous fistula transformation. Postoperative intimal hyperplasia in the arteriovenous fistula wall appears to thrive under hypoxic conditions. Vasa vasorum density and area by themselves are not predictive of maturation outcomes.

Outcome analysis in 270 radiologically guided implantations of totally implantable venous access ports via basilic vein

BACKGROUND

Totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs) are widely applied in patients who require chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, or frequent intravenous drug infusion. Although various venous access routes are possible for TIVAP insertion, the best method remains a topic of controversy. We present a single-center retrospective study of radiologically guided placement of TIVAPs through the basilic vein, with analysis of technical feasibility, patient safety, and device-related complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 270 patients who received TIVAP implantation through the basilic vein from November 2013 to July 2016, under imaging guidance by an interventional radiology team at our institution. Fluoroscopic images, chest radiographs, computed tomography scans, and medical records were reviewed after port implantation. Catheter maintenance days were calculated and catheter-related complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The procedural success rate was 99.3%. In total, 270 TIVAPs were implanted in 270 patients, of which 150 remained functional at the end of the study period. The total catheter maintenance days was 77 543 days, and the mean catheter indwelling duration was 287 ± 207 days. In 20 (7.4%) patients, TIVAP-related complications occurred during the follow-up period, resulting in a postprocedural complication rate of 0.26 incidences per 1000 catheter days. No significant relationship was observed between complications and gender (p = 0.188), age (p = 0.528), body mass index (p = 0.547), the type of primary malignancy (p = 0.914), or between the left and right basilic veins (p = 0.319).

CONCLUSION

Real-time ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance provides a safe method for TIVAP implantation through the basilic vein, with a high technical success rate and few device-related complications.

Innominate to contralateral brachial artery bypass via ministernotomy with anatomic tunneling for critical ischemia of the left upper extremity

OBJECTIVES

Scarring from prior bypass surgery and irradiation may compromise revascularization options in critical ischemia due to underlying occlusive disease. Occlusive disease of the axillo-brachial artery is particularly difficult to revascularize under such hostile conditions.

METHOD

We present a case of a 58-year-old woman presenting with a painful, pulseless, and cool left upper extremity. The patient had a known history of left upper extremity occlusive disease which was managed by subclavian-axillary artery stenting with re-occlusion and subsequent extra-anatomic left carotid-to-proximal brachial artery prosthetic bypass, which was complicated by stroke. The patient had a history of left mastectomy, axillary node dissection, and external beam radiation therapy. When considering revascularization options, the combination of post-radiation changes and scarring of the conventional operative zones for revascularization posed a high risk for complications. We describe a novel approach for such revascularization, where the inflow source was the terminal brachiocephalic artery, outflow to the upper left brachial artery, with anatomic intrathoracic-to-axillary tunneling through the thoracic outlet after verifying the lack of dynamic extrinsic compression at that level.

RESULT

The procedure resulted in resolution of the symptoms and the patient continued to do well 2 years later.

CONCLUSION

This case shows that anatomic tunneling through the thoracic outlet can be a viable option for upper extremity revascularization when hostile conditions preclude other anatomic tunneling routes or extra-anatomic options.

Cerebrovascular Complications After Upper Extremity Access for Complex Aortic Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to review the risk of developing cerebrovascular complications from upper extremity access during endovascular treatment of complex aortic aneurysms.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to the PRISMA guideline. An electronic search of the public domains Medline (PubMed), Embase (Ovid), Web of Science and Cochrane Library was performed to identify studies related to the treatment of aortic aneurysms involving upper extremity access. Meta-analysis was used to compare the rate of cerebrovascular event after left, right and bilateral upper extremity access. Results are presented as relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Thirteen studies including 1276 patients with complex endovascular treatment of aortic aneurysms using upper extremity access were included in the systematic review. Left upper extremity access (UEA) was used in 1028 procedures, right access in 148 and bilateral access in 100 procedures. The rate of cerebrovascular complications for patients treated through left UEA was 1.7%, through right UEA 4% and through bilateral UEA 5%. In the meta-analysis, we included seven studies involving 645 patients treated with a left upper extremity access, 87 patients through a right and 100 patients through a bilateral upper extremity access. Patients, who underwent right-sided (RR 5.01, 95% CI 1.51-16.58, P = 0.008) or bilateral UEA (RR 4.57, 95% CI 1.23-17.04, P = 0.02), had a significantly increased risk of cerebrovascular events compared to those who had a left-sided approach.

CONCLUSION

Left upper extremity access is associated with a significantly lower rate of cerebrovascular complications as compared to right or bilateral upper extremity access.

Evaluation of upper limb superficial venous percussion as a sign of anatomical location and venous permeability. A comparative study of superficial venous percussion to ultrasound findings on non-renal patients and on chronic kidney disease patients

METHODS

An analytical cross-sectional study with 70 individuals divided into two groups. Group A consisted of 35 volunteers who were being preoperatively prepared for the construction of arteriovenous fistula. Group B consisted of 35 non-renal patients selected by convenience. Each participant underwent physical examination, including venous percussion, of the dominant upper limb and then ultrasound. Interobserver agreement was assessed between a trained vascular surgeon performing percussion and fourth-year medical student. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of percussion were determined in relation to ultrasound. The agreement between the methods, venous percussion and venous duplex ultrasound was also evaluated by the Kappa index.

RESULTS

The overall interobserver agreement for the percussion was 0.74 (95% CI 0.632 to 0.851). It was observed that the results were more favorable in the cephalic vein than in the basilic vein, emphasizing that the cephalic is more used in venous punctures, because of its anatomical location and visibility, and in fistula construction. The 35 percussions of the cephalic forearm vein in Group A resulted in a sensitivity of 1.0 (95% CI 0.63 to 1.00), specificity of 0.96 (95% CI 0.81 to 1.00), a positive predictive value of 0.89(95% CI 0.52 to 1.00) and a negative predictive value of 1.00 (95% CI 0.87 to 1.00), with an accuracy of 0.97 (95% CI 0.85 to 1.00) and Kappa index of 0.92 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.00) in relation to ultrasound. Overall, when all venous segments were analyzed in group A, the Kappa index of agreement between the percussion and the ultrasonography reached 0.56 (95% CI 0.401 to 0.72). All venous segments in Group A had a sensitivity of 0.54 (95% CI 0.37 to 0.70) and a specificity of 0.96 (95% CI 0.90 to 0.99). When all venous segments were analyzed in group B, the Kappa index of agreement between the percussion and the ultrasonography reached 0.48 (95% CI 0.34 to 0.62). All venous segments in Group B had a sensitivity of 0.70 (95% CI 0.59 to 0.79) and a specificity of 0.82 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.91).

CONCLUSION

Venous percussion of the upper limbs has a high positive predictive value and high specificity, when compared to ultrasound as a way to evaluate the patency and adequacy of the cephalic vein. Although there is not enough evidence to preclude ultrasound, percussion should definitely be included in the traditional physical exam evaluation of upper limbs superficial veins.

Creation of Arteriovenous Fistulas and Grafts Concomitantly with Endovascular Correction of Outflow Veins: A Hybrid Procedure

BACKGROUND

Achieving well-functioning dialysis fistulas is a common problem in dialyzed patients, and it is mainly caused by the pathologies of vessels used for fistula creation. Hybrid therapies, combining surgical and endovascular procedures, potentially enable the creation of functional dialysis fistulas in patients with vessels that are otherwise unsuitable for vascular access.

METHODS

Between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2018, we created dialysis fistulas simultaneously with endovascular correction of outflow pathologies in 15 patients. The included patients had a long history of dialysis (median 10.5 years, range 3-22) and many previous dialysis access procedures (mean 5.3 procedures, range 2-9). In 13 patients (86.7%), the fistula was created on the upper arm; in 5 patients (33.3%), it was arteriovenous graft done with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) prosthesis (in an additional 3 patients, a PTFE prosthesis was used to extend the vein), and 7 patients had native vessel fistulas (46.7%). Endovascular procedures, in some cases performed on more than 1 vein, were applied for correction of the subclavian vein (8 patients, 53.3%); brachiocephalic vein (6 patients, 40.0%); cephalic, basilic, and axillary veins (2 patients each, 13.3%); and superior cava vein (1 patient, 6.7%). Access for the endovascular procedure was achieved through a dissected vein used for arteriovenous anastomosis. The fistula function was monitored, and all complications of dialysis access were noted. The median follow-up in the observed group was 18 months. We compared the patency of dialysis fistula creation combined with endovascular correction of outflow vein pathology to our results of standard dialysis fistula operations: radiocephalic dialysis fistula creation (RCAVF group, 65 patients) and dialysis fistula stenosis angioplasty (PTA group, 30 patients).

RESULTS

The 12- and 24-month primary patency rates of dialysis fistulas created in hybrid procedures with simultaneous outflow vein pathology correction were 72.7% and 63.6%, respectively. No early complications related to endovascular or open procedures were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A hybrid procedure for the creation of a dialysis fistula with the simultaneous correction of outflow pathologies enables a properly functioning dialysis fistula to be obtained. This procedure can be performed in patients with complicated vascular situations, enabling the creation of dialysis fistulas. Our results of hybrid procedures, involving simultaneous endovascular correction of the outflow vein with dialysis fistula creation, showed the efficiency and good results.

Epidemiology of Upper Extremity Vascular Injury in Contemporary Combat

BACKGROUND

The incidence of wartime upper-extremity vascular injury (UEVI) has been stable for the past century. The objective of this study is to provide a contemporary review of wartime UEVI, including epidemiologic characterization and description of early limb loss.

METHODS

The Department of Defense Trauma Registry (DoDTR) was queried to identify US service members who sustained a battle-related UEVI in Afghanistan between January 2009 and December 2015. Anatomic distribution of injury, mechanism of injury (MOI), associated injuries, early management, and early limb loss were analyzed.

RESULTS

Analysis identified 247 casualties who sustained 308 UEVIs. The most common injury was to the vessels distal to the brachial bifurcation (63.3%, n = 195), followed by the brachial vessels (27.3%, n = 84) and the axillary vessels (9.4%, n = 29). The predominant MOIs were penetrating explosive fragments (74.1%, n = 183) and gunshot wounds (25.9%, n = 64). Associated fractures were identified in 151 (61.1%) casualties and nerve injuries in 133 (53.8%). Angiography was performed in 91 (36.8%) casualties, and endovascular treatment was performed 10 (4%) times. Temporary vascular shunts were placed in 39 (15.8%) casualties. Data on surgical management were available for 171 injuries and included repair (48%, n = 82) and ligation (52%, n = 89). The early limb loss rate was 12.1% (n = 30). For all casualties sustaining early limb loss, the MOI was penetrating fragments from an explosion; the average injury severity score (ISS) was 32.3, and the mortality was 6.7% (n = 2). In those without amputation, the ISS and mortality were low at 20 and 4.6% (n = 10), respectively. Overall mortality was 4.9% (n = 12).

CONCLUSIONS

The early limb loss rate was increased compared with initial descriptions from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Amputations are associated with a higher ISS. Improved data capture and fidelity, or differing MOIs, may account for this trend. Proficiency with open and endovascular therapy remains a critical focus for combat casualty care.

Risk assessment of significant upper extremity arteriovenous graft infection in the Vascular Quality Initiative

OBJECTIVE

Infectious complications of arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are a major source of morbidity. Our aim was to characterize contemporary risk factors for upper extremity AVG infection.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative (2011-2018) was queried for all patients undergoing upper extremity AVG creation. AVG infection was classified as an infection treated with antibiotics, incision and drainage, or graft removal. Multivariable analyses were used to evaluate risk factors for short- and long-term AVG infection.

RESULTS

Of 1758 upper extremity AVGs, 49 (2.8%) developed significant infection within 3 months, resulting in incision and drainage in 24% and graft removal in 76% of cases. None were managed with antibiotics alone in the study sample. Patients with significant AVG infection were more likely to be white, to be insured, to have a history of coronary artery bypass graft and intravenous (IV) drug use, to be undergoing a concomitant vascular procedure, and to be discharged on an anticoagulant. In multivariable analysis, significant AVG infection within 3 months was associated with IV drug use history (odds ratio [OR], 5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.75-14.3; P = .003), discharge to a health care facility (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.07-6.63; P = .035), discharge on an anticoagulant (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.13-4.72; P = .021), white race (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.21-4.34; P = .011), and female sex (OR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.06-3.85; P = .033). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that freedom from graft site infection at 1 year was 96.4%. Longer term graft infection at 1 year was independently associated with IV drug use history (hazard ratio [HR], 1.98; 95% CI, 1.06-3.68; P = .032), initial discharge to a health care facility (HR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.19-2.97; P = .007), and white race (HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.23-2.19; P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although significant AVG infection was uncommon in the Vascular Quality Initiative, the majority were treated with graft removal. In select high-risk patients, extra care should be taken and alternative forms of arteriovenous access may be considered.

[True Aneurysms of the Upper Limb: a Single-Centre Experience]

INTRODUCTION

True arterial aneurysms of the upper limb are rare and their treatment is intended to avoid complications as distal embolization, compression of surrounding neurovascular structures or rupture.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to review the experience of a department in the surgical treatment of true arterial aneurysms of the upper limb.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed between January 2007 and August 2017.

RESULTS

From a total of eleven patients, nine were male and two were female. One of the patients had surgery twice because of two consecutive aneurysms of the upper limb. From a total of twelve cases, two were subclavian, one was axillary and nine were brachial aneurysms. Three of them had degenerative/idiopathic aetiology, one was associated to a cervical rib and seven occurred in the setting of arteriovenous fistula or kidney graft. Five patients had emergent surgery and the others had elective surgery. All of the patients were submitted to aneurysmectomy. As 30-day complications, there were two haematomas, one compartment syndrome and two early graft occlusions. Four patients needed re-intervention. During the follow-up period, all the grafts initially preserved were patent. There were no further known complications or amputation procedures.

CONCLUSION

In this review most of the aneurysms were found in patients with haemodialysis vascular access or kidney grafts. Despite the need for early re-intervention in some cases, the surgical treatment of true arterial aneurysms of the upper limb is a low morbidity procedure.

Continuous monitoring of interstitial tissue oxygen using subcutaneous oxygen microsensors: In vivo characterization in healthy volunteers

Measurements of regional tissue oxygen serve as a proxy to monitor local perfusion and have the potential to guide therapeutic decisions in multiple clinical disciplines. Transcutaneous oximetry (tcpO2) is a commercially available noninvasive technique that uses an electrode to warm underlying skin tissue and measure the resulting oxygen tension at the skin surface. A novel approach is to directly measure interstitial tissue oxygen using subcutaneous oxygen microsensors composed of a biocompatible hydrogel carrier platform with embedded oxygen sensing molecules. After initial injection of the hydrogel into subcutaneous tissue, noninvasive optical measurements of phosphorescence-based emissions at the skin surface are used to sense oxygen in the subcutaneous interstitial space. The object of the present study was to characterize the in vivo performance of subcutaneous microsensors and compare with transcutaneous oximetry (tcpO2). Vascular occlusion tests were performed on the arms of 7 healthy volunteers, with repeated tests occurring 1 to 10 weeks after sensor injection, yielding 95 total tests for analysis. Comparative analysis characterized the response of both devices to decreases in tissue oxygen during occlusion and to increases in tissue oxygen following release of the occlusion. Results indicated: (I) time traces returned by microsensors and tcpO2 were highly correlated, with the median (interquartile range) correlation coefficient of r = 0.93 (0.10); (II) both microsensors and tcpO2 sensed a statistically significant decrease in normalized oxygen during occlusion (p < 0.001 for each device); (III) microsensors detected faster rates change (p < 0.001) and detected overshoot during recovery more frequently (38% vs. 4% of tests); (IV) inter-measurement analysis showed no correlation of baseline values between microsensors and tcpO2 (r = 0.03), but comparison of integrated oxygen dynamics showed similar variation in the normalized response to occlusion between devices (p = 0.06), (V) intra-measurement analysis revealed that microsensors detect greater physiological fluctuations than tcpO2 (p < 0.001) and may provide enhanced sensitivity to processes such as vasomotion. Additionally, the functional response of microsensors was not significantly different across time groupings (per month) post-injection (p = 0.61). Although the compared devices have differences in the mechanisms used to sense oxygen, these findings demonstrate that subcutaneous oxygen microsensors measure changes in interstitial tissue oxygen in human subjects in vivo.

Small Saphenous Vein and Arm Vein as Bypass Grafts for Upper Extremity Ischemia

BACKGROUND

Bypass in the upper extremity is a rare procedure mainly performed for chronic ischemia, trauma, or hemodialysis access complications. Feasibility and success of use of the arm vein and small saphenous vein (SSV) for autologous vein bypass have been reported in peripheral artery bypass procedures. There are very few reports on the use of alternative veins in upper extremity bypass. We report our experience with arm vein and SSV as a graft source in upper extremity arterial disease.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of a consecutively collected case series in an academic tertiary referral center from January 2010 to February 2018. Study end points were primary patency, secondary patency, limb salvage, and survival.

RESULTS

In total, 47 patients were treated with upper extremity bypass either using the SSV (n = 17) or arm veins (n = 30). Indications were either acute (n = 12) or chronic ischemia (n = 35) caused by acute (n = 8) and chronic (n = 9) trauma, sequela of iatrogenic interventions (n = 4), peripheral artery disease (n = 14), thrombangiitis obliterans (n = 3), and dialysis-access-related complications (n = 9). An arm vein was used in 30 and the SSV in 17 patients. Primary patency after 12 months was 87% with the SSV and 75% with an arm vein (P = 0.8) and 63% and 75% after 36 months (P = 0.9). Secondary patency were 100% with an arm vein and 100% with the SSV after 36 months (P = 0.4). One patient had to undergo major amputation and 2 minor amputations.

CONCLUSIONS

Arm vein revascularization using the primarily arm vein or SSV as a bypass conduit can be performed with reasonable mortality and morbidity rates and provide good results comparable with the greater saphenous vein.

Upper-Extremity Venous Access for Children and Adults in Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

BACKGROUND

Traditional approaches to pediatric cardiac catheterization have relied on femoral venous access. Upper- extremity venous access may enable cardiac catheterization procedures to be performed safely for diagnostic and interventional catheterizations. The objective of this multicenter study was to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of upper-extremity venous access in a pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent cardiac catheterization via upper-extremity vascular access was performed.

RESULTS

Eighty-two cardiac catheterizations were attempted via upper-extremity vein on 72 patients. Successful access was obtained in 75 catheterizations (91%) in 67 patients. Median age at catheterization was 18.79 years (interquartile range [IQR], 13.02-32.75 years; n = 75) with a median weight of 59.4 kg (IQR, 43.3-76.5 kg; n = 75). The youngest patient was 4.1 months old, weighing 4.3 kg. Local anesthesia or light sedation was utilized in 46 procedures (61%). Diagnostic right heart catheterization was the most common procedure (n = 65; 87%), with intervention performed via the upper extremity in 8 cases (11%). Median fluoroscopy time was 10.02 min (IQR, 2.87-36.26 min; n = 75), with dose area product/kg of 3.765 μGy•m²/kg (IQR, 0.74-34.12 μGy•m²/kg; n = 64). Median sheath duration time was 48 min (IQR, 19.5-147 min; n = 57) and median total procedure time was 116 min (IQR, 80.5-299 min; n = 65). Median length of stay for outpatient procedures was 5.37 hr (IQR, 4.25-6.92 hr; n = 27). There were no procedural complications.

CONCLUSION

Upper-extremity venous access is a useful, feasible, and safe modality for cardiac catheterization in the pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Limited Ultrasound Protocol for Upper Extremity Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Monitoring: A Pilot Study in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether a limited ultrasound (US) scanning protocol to monitor the upper extremity peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) location in neonates is feasible for experienced US operators.

METHODS

A radiologist, who was blinded to the PICC location on chest radiography, performed 14 US scans on 11 neonates with upper extremity PICCs. A US machine with 13-6-MHz linear and 8-4-MHz phased array transducers was used for the examinations.

RESULTS

The study population included 54% (n = 6) preterm infants, with 72% (n = 8) weighing less than 1500 g. The US location of the PICC was the same as the chest radiographic report in all 14 scans. A subclavicular long-axis view of the anterior chest visualized all PICCs in the subclavian or brachiocephalic veins. A parasternal long-axis right ventricular inflow view was able to visualize PICCs in the superior vena cava (SVC), and a subcostal long-axis view evaluated PICCs in the lower SVC and heart. The scanning time was location dependent: less than 5 minutes for PICCs in the brachiocephalic or subclavian vein and 5 to 10 minutes for PICCs in the SVC or heart. There were no desaturations below 90%, increases in the fraction of inspired oxygen need, or hypotension episodes during scanning.

CONCLUSIONS

A limited US scanning protocol to determine the upper extremity PICC location is feasible. Our protocol needs to be tested in neonatal providers before further dissemination.

A Pearl-Like 30-Year-Old Moving Phlebolith in the Left Cephalic Vein

BACKGROUND

Phleboliths are a common finding, especially in the pelvic veins. There are generally multiple thrombi associated with vascular malformations, trauma, or iatrogenic or noniatrogenic intravenous foreign bodies.

METHODS

Herein, we report a unique case of a single moving phlebolith in the cephalic vein of a 65-year-old man, not associated with any vascular lesion, trauma, or foreign body.

RESULTS

Too many cases of phleboliths have been reported in the literature since 1948, referred to vascular disorders, injuries, or foreign bodies. Only this work we are presenting refers to a phlebolith not associated with other vascular, pathological, or traumatic lesion.

CONCLUSION

Phleboliths not associated with other vascular lesions are not common and less rare when not associated with injuries or iatrogenic interventions. Clinicians should be aware of the existence of this pathology and include it as the differential diagnosis of various pathological conditions.

Three Cases of Large-Diameter True Brachial and Axillary Artery Aneurysm and a Review of the Literature

Aneurysms of the upper extremity mostly originate from trauma, mycotic lesions, thoracic outlet syndrome, previous arteriovenous fistulae, and atherosclerosis. True aneurysms of the brachial and axillary artery are encountered rarely. They can be diagnosed by simple physical examination as a pulsatile mass. However, most of these aneurysms remain asymptomatic until a complication occurs. The primary complication seen with the axillary or brachial artery is embolization. We report 3 large-diameter true brachial artery aneurysms extending to the axillary zone. One of the patients had distal digital emboli causing gangrenous lesions at the finger tips and the other 2 patients had pain and ischemic symptoms in the forearm. All underwent surgical repair. After excision of the aneurysmal segment, arterial continuity was ensured by interposition of a reversed saphenous vein in 2 patients and with a biological vascular graft in 1 patient. Although endovascular techniques are improving, most true brachial artery aneurysms are not anatomically suitable for interventional procedures. Open surgery still preserves its value.

Prevalence of Persistent Median Arteries in the Pediatric Population on Ultrasonography

OBJECTIVES

To use real-time ultrasonography to estimate the prevalence of persistent median arteries in a cohort of pediatric orthopedic patients.

METHODS

With Institutional Review Board approval, patients between the ages of 3 months and 19 years were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Variables of interest included demographics, underlying diagnoses, and the presence of a Doppler-confirmed median artery. Ultrasonographic examinations were performed on both upper extremities by a single investigator. Patient- and limb-level analyses were performed. A multivariable generalized logistic regression analysis was used to test the association between the prevalence of limb-specific persistent median arteries and age. A generalized estimating equation was used to adjust for the inclusion of multiple limbs from the same patient.

RESULTS

A total of 135 patients (270 limbs) were evaluated. The patient-specific prevalence rate (persistent median arteries present in 1 or both limbs) was 26.7%. Among these patients (n = 36), a persistent median artery was present bilaterally in 55.6% (n = 20). The limb-specific prevalence rate (proportion of limbs with a persistent median artery) was 20.7%. After adjusting for race, for every 1-year increase in age, the odds of a persistent median artery decreased by 4.4%. After adjusting for age, African Americans were significantly more likely to present with a persistent median artery (odds ratio, 3.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-11.48).

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonography can effectively visualize anatomic variants, such as persistent median arteries, in the pediatric population. The prevalence of persistent median arteries was higher than anticipated, especially among African American patients.

Heterogeneity in the nonplanarity and arterial curvature of arteriovenous fistulas in vivo

OBJECTIVE

Native arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for hemodialysis are susceptible to nonmaturation. Adverse features of local blood flow have been implicated in the formation of perianastomotic neointimal hyperplasia that may underpin nonmaturation. Whereas computational fluid dynamic simulations of idealized models highlight the importance of geometry on fluid and vessel wall interactions, little is known in vivo about AVF geometry and its role in adverse clinical outcomes. This study set out to examine the three-dimensional geometry of native AVFs and the geometric correlates of AVF failure.

METHODS

As part of an observational study between 2013 and 2016, patients underwent creation of an upper limb AVF according to current surgical best practice. Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging was performed on the day of surgery to obtain luminal geometry along with ultrasound measurements of flow. Magnetic resonance imaging data sets were segmented and reconstructed for quantitative and qualitative analysis of local geometry. Clinical maturation was evaluated at 6 weeks.

RESULTS

There were 60 patients who were successfully imaged on the day of surgery. Radiocephalic (n = 17), brachiocephalic (n = 40), and brachiobasilic (n = 3) fistulas were included in the study. Centerlines extracted from segmented vessel lumen exhibited significant heterogeneity in arterial nonplanarity and curvature. Furthermore, these features are more marked in brachiocephalic than in radiocephalic fistulas. Across the cohort, the projected bifurcation angle was 73 ± 16 degrees (mean ± standard deviation). Geometry was preserved at 2 weeks in 20 patients who underwent repeated imaging. A greater degree of arterial nonplanarity (log odds ratio [logOR], 0.95 per 0.1/vessel diameter; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22-1.90; P = .03) and a larger bifurcation angle (logOR, 0.05 per degree; 95% CI, 0.01-0.09; P = .02) are associated with a greater rate of maturation, as is fistula location (upper vs lower arm; logOR, -1.9; 95% CI, -3.2 to 0.7; P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

There is significant heterogeneity in the three-dimensional geometry of AVFs, in particular, arterial nonplanarity and curvature. In this largest cohort of AVF geometry to date, the effect of individual geometric correlates on maturation is uncertain but supports the premise that future modeling studies will need to acknowledge the complex geometry of AVFs.

Early cannulation of bovine carotid artery grafts (Artegraft) after primary vascular access and fistula revision procedures

OBJECTIVE

Tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) use has been associated with increased infectious complications and mortality in hemodialysis-dependent patients. Unfortunately, patients who undergo fistula revisions or creation of a new arteriovenous fistula frequently require a TDC during the postoperative period. Bovine carotid artery grafts (BCAGs) can be used as an early-access dialysis conduit to reduce TDC dependence. This study describes the performance of BCAGs that were cannulated early (<3 days) after implantation and associated clinical outcomes.

METHODS

BCAGs were implanted in 63 consecutive dialysis-dependent patients. Patients and dialysis centers were directly provided early cannulation instructions; 31 (49%) patients were cannulated early, and of the 31 patients cannulated early, 21 (68%) were cannulated during the first postoperative day. Early complications, primary patency, secondary patency, and TDC incidence were monitored through clinic visits, hospital records, and phone calls to dialysis centers.

RESULTS

The primary patency of BCAGs at 1 year in the early and late cannulation cohorts was 28% and 39%, respectively. The secondary patency of BCAGs at 1 year in the early and late cannulation cohorts was 74% and 77%, respectively. Early complications occurred in 11 (19%) patients who received a BCAG. There were no significant differences in complication rates between early and late cannulation patients. Of the 24 patients who underwent the operation without a pre-existing TDC, only three (13%) required TDC placement during the 30-day postoperative period.

CONCLUSIONS

BCAGs can be cannulated early without increased complication rates or a negative impact on midterm patency. Early cannulation of BCAGs obviates the need for a TDC postoperatively in dialysis-dependent patients undergoing primary vascular access or fistula revision procedures.

The effects of upper and lower limb exercise on the microvascular reactivity in limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis patients

BACKGROUND

Aerobic exercise in general and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) specifically is known to improve vascular function in a range of clinical conditions. HIIT in particular has demonstrated improvements in clinical outcomes, in conditions that have a strong macroangiopathic component. Nevertheless, the effect of HIIT on microcirculation in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients is yet to be investigated. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to compare the effects of two HIIT protocols (cycle and arm cranking) on the microcirculation of the digital area in SSc patients.

METHODS

Thirty-four limited cutaneous SSc patients (65.3 ± 11.6 years old) were randomly allocated in three groups (cycling, arm cranking and control group). The exercise groups underwent a 12- week exercise program twice per week. All patients performed the baseline and post-exercise intervention measurements where physical fitness, functional ability, transcutaneous oxygen tension (ΔTcpO2), body composition and quality of life were assessed. Endothelial-dependent as well as -independent vasodilation were assessed in the middle and index fingers using LDF and incremental doses of acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). Cutaneous flux data were expressed as cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC).

RESULTS

Peak oxygen uptake increased in both exercise groups (p < 0.01, d = 1.36). ΔTcpO2 demonstrated an increase in the arm-cranking group only, with a large effect, but not found statistically significant,(p = 0.59, d = 0.93). Endothelial-dependent vasodilation improvement was greater in the arm-cranking (p < 0.05, d = 1.07) in comparison to other groups. Both exercise groups improved life satisfaction (p < 0.001) as well as reduced discomfort and pain due to Raynaud's phenomenon (p < 0.05). Arm cranking seems to be the preferred mode of exercise for study participants as compared to cycling (p < 0.05). No changes were observed in the body composition or the functional ability in both exercise groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that arm cranking has the potential to improve the microvascular endothelial function in SSc patients. Also notably, our recommended training dose (e.g., a 12-week HIIT program, twice per week), appeared to be sufficient and tolerable for this population. Future research should focus on exploring the feasibility of a combined exercise such as aerobic and resistance training by assessing individual's experience and the quality of life in SSc patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT number): NCT03058887 , February 23, 2017.

Ultrasonographic and Imaging Appearance of Peripheral Intraneural Vascular Anomalies: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

The purpose of the paper is to present the ultrasonographic and imaging appearance of two cases of peripheral nerve intraneural vascular anomalies and provide a comprehensive review of the publications on this subject.The clinical presentation, ultrasonographic appearance, corresponding imaging and outcome of a case of ulnar nerve venous malformation and a case of median nerve arteriovenous malformation are presented.Literature search revealed 35 papers presenting 52 cases of vascular anomalies involving the peripheral nerves. The ultrasonographic appearance was described only in ten cases. Our review suggests that peripheral intraneural vascular anomalies are twice more frequent in women. About three quarters of them are located in the upper limb, with the median nerve involved in one third and the ulnar nerved involved in a quarter of all cases. Most of the cases are hemangiomas. Peripheral neural compartment syndromes in patients with coexisting vascular anomalies may prompt for vascular neural involvement, requiring diagnostic imaging studies. Gray-scale and Doppler ultrasound are the methods of first choice, as they provide not only direct visual proof of neural involvement but also contribute to the differential diagnosis between hemangiomas and vascular malformations.

Technique to Avoid Hemodialysis Catheter in Patients with Failing Aneurysmal Arteriovenous Fistula by Creating a Concomitant New Arteriovenous Fistula

Autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the primary recommended access for hemodialysis. Long-term use will not uncommonly result in AVF aneurysmal degeneration. Aneurysm-associated complications encompass pain, skin ulceration, infection, thrombosis, cannulation difficulties, and life-threatening bleeding. Various methods to repair aneurysmal AVFs have been described. However, there may be circumstances when this is not possible and require insertion of a temporary hemodialysis catheter (HDC) until a new arteriovenous access is created. We describe a case series of creating a new simultaneous AVF while continuing to use the primary failing aneurysmal AVF to avoid placement of an HDC. Once the new AVF becomes operational, the primary aneurysmal AVF can be abandoned. Six patients underwent simultaneous new AVF creation, 4 ipsilateral, and 2 contralateral. None of the patients developed symptomatic steal syndrome or congestive heart failure. Five of 6 patients had successful usage of the new AVF, and subsequently underwent ligation and excision of the aneurysmal AVF, thus avoiding a temporary HDC. Close monitoring for skin compromise and bleeding in the aneurysmal AVF is recommended while the new AVF matures.

The brachio-brachial arteriovenous fistula: a new method in patients without a superficial venous system in the upper limb

Purpose

This study aimed to report our experience in the creation of brachio-brachial arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) in patients without adequate superficial venous circulation at the upper limb.

Methods

A retrospective study of 33 patients, operated on between 2004–2005, in whom we created a brachio-brachial fistula between the brachial artery and the brachial vein. After dissection and adequate mobilization, the brachial vein was anastomized to the brachial artery in an end-to-side fashion. After the maturation period (1 month) the brachial vein was transposed into the subcutaneous tissue.

Results

Thirty-three patients underwent 33 brachio-brachial fistula constructions. Primary patency was achieved in all patients. After 1 month, 27 fistulas (81.8%) were functional. Six patients developed fistula occlusion. The 27 remaining patients had subsequently good fistulas for hemodialysis (HD) afterwards. Discrete edema of the forearm was noted in 12 patients (36%); in one of these patients the edema was extended to the entire arm. No other complications were noted. A follow-up study, extended from 3–26 months (mean 14 ± 6.6 months), was performed. The overall patency rate of the brachio-brachial fistula at the end of the follow-up was 85.2%.

Conclusions

The brachio-brachial fistula can represent a viable choice in patients with an inadequate superficial venous system in the upper limb.

Impact of pre-operative venography on the planning and outcome of vascular access for hemodialysis patients

Objective

Pre-operative venous mapping has increased dramatically in most dialysis units since the Dialysis Outcome Quality Initiative (DOQI) guidelines recommended a native arteriovenous venous fistula (AVF) rather than a graft for hemodialysis (HD) access procedures. However, there are conflicting consequences as a result of this policy. Some studies have showed that routine mapping has resulted in a marked increase in maturation rate while others have observed the reverse. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pre-operative venography on the planning and outcome of AVF for our HD patients.

Patients and methods

A prospective study was performed on all patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who had HD access procedures and pre-operative venography between October 2003 and November 2005. Upper limb venography was done for all patients except those that required primary access and had visible veins. All patients had HD immediately after the venography. Access procedure selection was based on the result of the venography. The complications of venography, the surgical procedure and the outcome were recorded.

Results

One hundred and twenty-nine patients with ESRD who had pre-operative venography were included in this study. They were mostly middle age (mean age ± SD = 41 ± 15.5 yrs) with a high rate of diabetes mellitus (53%). No single complication was reported. A graft was placed in six patients (5%) only. Unsuccessful surgical exploration was 0%. Early failure was in 10 patients (8%).

Conclusion

Pre-operative venography resulted in an increase in the number of AVFs. It can improve the results of HD access procedures by selecting the most suitable veins.

Extremity Vascular Injury Management: Good Outcomes Using Selective Referral to Vascular Surgeons

Revascularization after extremity vascular injury has long been considered an important skill among trauma surgeons. Increasingly, some trauma surgeons defer vascular repair in response to training or practice patterns. This study was designed to document results of extremity revascularization surgery to evaluate trauma surgeon outcomes and judicious referral of more complex injuries to vascular surgeons (VAS). The trauma registry of an urban level I trauma center was used to identify all patients from 2003 to 2013 who underwent an early (<24 hours) procedure for urgent management of acute injury to extremity vessels. Patients were managed by trauma (TRA) versus VAS based on the practice pattern of the on-call trauma surgeon. Injury and outcome variables were recorded. Of 115 patients, 84 patients were revascularized by trauma and 31 vascular surgeries. There was no difference in complication rates or frequency of any type of complication associated with repairs performed by VAS or TRA. There were similar rates between the two groups for patients with multiple injuries, such as venous, bone or tendon, and nerve injury to the affected extremity. One VAS patient and two TRA patients developed compartment syndrome. In appropriately selected patients, trauma surgeons achieve good outcomes after revascularization of injured extremities.

Effects of remote ischemic preconditioning on contrast induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the clinical effects of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) on contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study was a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled study. A total of 161 patients with ACS and the rate of estimate glomerular filtration (eGFR) 15 to 70 mL/min/1.73 m2 undergoing PCI were randomly assigned to RIPC group (induced by 4 times of 5-minute inflations of a blood pressure cuff to 200 mmHg around the upper arm, followed by 5-min intervals of reperfusion at 1 hour before PCI therapy) or control group (an uninflated cuff around the arm). Successful completion of the PCI eventually included 107 cases of patients, including 50 cases in the RIPC group and 57 cases in the control group. The level of serum creatinine (Scr), CystatinC (CysC), blood neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), eGFR were measured in all patients at 6 AM before the day of PCI, and 4-hour NGAL, 24-hour CysC, 72-hour Scr, and eGFR after PCI in the 2 groups. The incidence of major adverse events in the kidney (including the incidence of CIN, the need for dialysis, or renal replacement therapy after using contrast agent) and the composite endpoint of cardiovascular events were recorded at 6 months after PCI.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in baseline indicators between the 2 groups. Scr, CysC, and blood NGAL levels and the incidence of CIN in patients with RIPC group were significantly lower than those form the control group after PCI (P < .05), but there were no significant differences between the average value of eGFR and occurrence of Major cardiovascular events in the postoperative 6 months (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

RIPC can reduce PCI-related CIN and protect renal function in patients with ACS. The benefits of these patients by RIPC may be related to the reduction of the NGAL and CysC.

The blind pushing technique for peripherally inserted central catheter placement through brachial vein puncture

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to conduct a prospective clinical trial evaluating the technical feasibility and short-term clinical outcome of the blind pushing technique for placement of pretrimmed peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) through brachial vein access.

METHODS

Patients requiring PICC placement at any of the three participating institutions were prospectively enrolled between January and December 2016. The review boards of all participating institutions approved this study, and informed consent was obtained from all patients. PICC placement was performed using the blind pushing technique and primary brachial vein access. The following data were collected from unified case report forms: access vein, obstacles during PICC advancement, procedure time, and postprocedural complications.

RESULTS

During the 12-month study period, 1380 PICCs were placed in 1043 patients. Of these, 1092 PICCs placed in 837 patients were enrolled, with 834 PICCs (76%) and 258 PICCs (34%) placed through brachial vein and nonbrachial vein access, respectively. In both arms, obstacles were most commonly noted in the subclavian veins (n = 220) and axillary veins (n = 94). Successful puncture of the access vein was achieved at first try in 1028 PICCs (94%). The technical success rate was 99%, with 1055 PICCs (97%) placed within 120 seconds of procedure time and 1088 PICCs (99%) having the tip located at the ideal position. Follow-up Doppler ultrasound detected catheter-associated upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT) for 18 PICCs in 16 patients and late symptomatic UEDVT for 16 PICCs in 16 patients (3.1%). Catheter-associated UEDVT was noted for 28 PICCs (82%) and 6 PICCs (18%) placed through brachial vein and nonbrachial vein access, respectively. The incidence of obstacles and the procedure time (<120 seconds) differed significantly between brachial vein and nonbrachial vein access (P = .001). There was no statistically significant difference between brachial vein and nonbrachial vein access in the incidence of UEDVT (odds ratio, 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.59-3.52; P = .22).

CONCLUSIONS

The placement of pretrimmed PICCs by the blind pushing technique and primary brachial vein access is technically feasible and may represent an alternative to the conventional PICC placement technique, having low incidences of UEDVT and other complications, with no significant difference in outcomes between brachial vein and nonbrachial vein access.

The Potential Role of Thermography in Determining the Efficacy of Stroke Rehabilitation

INTRODUCTION

Maintaining good physiological circulation in the extremities requires an optimally functioning muscle pump. Stroke symptoms indicate a change in venous circulation. In this study, changes were measured in joint function and microcirculation, and the correlation between them was examined.

SETTING

Physiotherapy Center, Ss. Cosmas and Damian Rehabilitation Institute, Visegrád, Hungary.

METHODOLOGY

Sixteen randomly selected poststroke patients with hemiparesis affecting mainly the upper extremities began undergoing rehabilitation 13 ± 4 days following stroke. Thermograms were taken with a Fluke Ti 20 (Fluke Corporation, WA) pretreatment and post-treatment, and a physiotherapy documentation form was completed. Treatment comprised 15 physiotherapy, massage, and galvanic therapy sessions per patient, with the side exhibiting no neurological symptoms as a control.

RESULTS

Joint function showed significant improvement on the affected side (P < .05). Thermographic examinations revealed microcirculatory dysfunction in the affected extremities in 100% of the cases. Following treatment, temperature increased significantly (P ≥ .5°C) on the affected side. A strong correlation (r) was observed between joint function and temperature change (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Thermography is shown to be a reliable method for monitoring the effects of stroke rehabilitation treatment. Thermographic testing may enable us to predict the course of the trauma and the efficacy of treatment even at the acute stage.

Effects of upper-extremity vascular access creation on cardiac events in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting

The present study was conducted to investigate whether upper-extremity vascular access (VA) creation increases the risk for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and death in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with an in situ left internal thoracic artery (ITA) graft. A total of 111 patients with CABG with a left ITA graft who underwent upper-extremity VA creation were analyzed retrospectively; 93 patients received left VA creation (83.8%, ipsilateral group) and 18 patients received right VA creation (16.2%, contralateral group). The primary outcome was the occurrence of MACE, and the secondary outcome was the composite of MACE or late death. There were no significant differences in the incidence of primary (P = 0.30) or secondary (P = 0.09) outcomes between the two groups. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that prior cerebrovascular accidents (hazard ratio [HR] 3.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–7.97; P = 0.01) and type of VA (HR 3.44; 95% CI 1.34–8.82; P = 0.01) were independently associated with MACE; prior peripheral arterial occlusive disease (HR 4.22; 95% CI 1.62–10.98; P<0.01) and type of VA (arteriovenous fistula vs. prosthetic arteriovenous grafting) (HR 3.06; 95% CI, 1.42–6.61; P<0.01) were associated with the composite of MACE or death. The side and location of VA were not associated with MACE or death. Our study showed no definite evidence that ipsilateral VA creation affects the subsequent occurrence of MACE or late death from any cause. The type of VA (a prosthetic arteriovenous grafting) is a significant predictor of the subsequent occurrence of MACE or late death.

Rivaroxaban in the Treatment of PICC-associated Upper Extremity Venous Thrombosis

PURPOSE

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are frequently used for prolonged drug administration, but their use is commonly complicated by the development of upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT) requiring anticoagulation. Here, we compared the efficacy and safety profile of rivaroxaban (20 mg/d) with low molecular weight (LMW) heparin and vitamin K antagonists in the treatment of PICC-associated UEDVT.

METHODS

Patients (N = 84) with PICC-associated UEDVT were studied. All had UEDVT identified by ultrasound scanning. Further ultrasound images were obtained at 1, 2, and 3 months after the start of treatment. Forty-four patients were treated with rivaroxaban and 40 with initial LMW heparin and vitamin K antagonist with continuation of vitamin K antagonists alone once international normalized ratio was therapeutic FINDINGS: In the rivaroxaban group mean (SD) age was 51 (16) years and 57% were men, whereas in the other group respective values were 50 (16) years and 56%. All patients were receiving treatment for cancer. Resolution of thrombus had occurred in 53.5% at 1 month, 76.1% at 2 months, and 92.6% at 3 months in the rivaroxaban-treated patients. Corresponding values in the LMW heparin/vitamin antagonist-treated patients were 34.2%, 55.5%, and 88.5%, respectively. Differences between groups were significant at 1 month (P < 0.01) and 2 months (P < 0.05). There were no major bleeds in either group, and cumulative bleeding rates by 3 months were 7.3% in the rivaroxaban group and 11.4% in the LMW heparin/vitamin K antagonist group.

IMPLICATIONS

Rivaroxaban led to faster resolution of PICC-associated UEDVT than LMW/vitamin K antagonists without any increase in bleeding.

Stromal vascular fraction cells for the treatment of critical limb ischemia: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Cell-based therapy is being explored as an alternative treatment option for critical limb ischemia (CLI), a disease associated with high amputation and mortality rates and poor quality of life. However, therapeutic potential of uncultured adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells has not been evaluated as a possible treatment. In this pilot study, we investigated the efficacy of multiple injections of autologous uncultured adipose-derived SVF cells to treat patients with CLI.

METHODS

This study included 15 patients, from 35 to 77 years old, with rest pain and ulceration. SVF cells were injected once or twice in the ischemic limb along the arteries. Digital subtraction angiography was performed before and after cell therapy. The clinical follow up was carried out for the subsequent 12 months after the beginning of the treatment.

RESULTS

Multiple intramuscular SVF cell injections caused no complications during the follow-up period. Clinical improvement occurred in 86.7% of patients. Two patients required major amputation, and the amputation sites healed completely. The rest of patients achieved a complete ulcer healing, pain relief, improved ankle-brachial pressure index and claudication walking distance, and had ameliorated their quality of life. Digital subtraction angiography performed before and after SVF cell therapy showed formation of numerous vascular collateral networks across affected arteries.

CONCLUSION

Results of this pilot study demonstrate that the multiple intramuscular SVF cell injections stimulate regeneration of injured tissue and are effective alternative to achieve therapeutic angiogenesis in CLI patients who are not eligible for conventional treatment. Trial registration number at ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN13001382. Retrospectively registered at 26/04/2017.

Accidental Intra Arterial Injection And Limb Ischemia

BACKGROUND

Accidental intra-arterial drug injections usually occur as an iatrogenic complication but it is also found in drug abusers as a result of attempted intravenous (IV) injections. It is estimated that accidental intra-arterial injections are found in 1:3500-1:56000 patients visiting emergency department.

METHODS

This was cross sectional study performed in cardiovascular department Lady reading Hospital Peshawar from 1.1.2013 to 31.8.2015. Accidental intra-arterial injection was defined as intravenous injection in upper limb for any illness which is followed by sudden severe pain in limb followed by bluish discoloration of any part of limb. Data was analysed using SPSS-20. Frequency and percentage were calculated for categorical variables like while Means±SD was calculated for numerical variables. Chi square test was used to compare Categorical variables.

RESULTS

Total 30 patients were studied in whom 17 were male. Mean age of the study population was 43.2±17.9 years. All patients after admission were put on intravenous Heparin alone or in combination with Dexamethason, Beraprost and Nifedifin on discretion of visiting consultant. Injection diclofenac were found more frequently as cause of limb ischemia (43 %). Amputation of digits or part of limb was noted in 7 (23.1 %) cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Accidental intra-arterial injection can lead to limb ischemia and even limb loss so while injecting IV drugs, care should be taken to use venous site away from arterial sites.

Arteriovenous fistula patency in the 3 years following vonapanitase and placebo treatment

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the long-term outcomes of arteriovenous fistulas treated with vonapanitase (recombinant human elastase) at the time of surgical creation.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 151 patients undergoing radiocephalic or brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula creation who were randomized equally to placebo, vonapanitase 10 μg, or vonapanitase 30 μg. The results after 1 year of follow-up were previously reported. The current analysis occurred when the last patient treated was observed for 3 years. For the current analysis, the primary end point was primary patency; the secondary end points included secondary patency, use of the fistula for hemodialysis, and rate of procedures to restore or to maintain patency.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the risk of primary patency loss with vonapanitase 10 μg or 30 μg vs placebo. When seven initial patency loss events related to cephalic arch and central vein balloon angioplasty were excluded, the risk of patency loss was reduced with vonapanitase overall (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63; P = .049) and 30 μg (HR, 0.51; P = .03). In patients with radiocephalic fistulas (n = 67), the risks of primary and secondary patency loss were reduced with 30 μg (HR, 0.37 [P = .02] and 0.24 [P = .046], respectively). The rate of procedures to restore or to maintain fistula patency was reduced with 30 μg vs placebo (0.23 vs 0.72 procedure days/patient/year; P = .03) and also reduced in patients with radiocephalic fistulas with 30 μg vs placebo (0.17 vs 0.85 procedure days/patient/year; P = .048).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, vonapanitase did not significantly improve primary patency in the primary analysis but did significantly improve primary patency in an analysis that excluded patency loss due to cephalic arch and central vein balloon angioplasty. In patients with radiocephalic fistulas, 30 μg significantly improved primary and secondary patency. Vonapanitase 30 μg decreased the rate of procedures to restore or to maintain patency in the analysis that included all patients and in the subset with radiocephalic fistulas.

Upper extremity vascular complications following transradial approach for cardiac catheterization and intervention: a focused review of diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic considerations

Cardiac catheterization using the transradial approach has dramatically increased in worldwide adoption since its original description almost thirty years ago. Over the past decade, a groundswell of contemporary clinical data has demonstrated the superiority of the transradial approach over transfemoral catheterization with respect to bleeding and vascular complications, time to ambulation, length of hospital stay, healthcare economics, as well as patient comfort and satisfaction. In addition, large multicenter clinical trials have demonstrated trends in mortality reduction with the transradial compared to transfemoral approach in high risk patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. As enthusiasm for the transradial approach has grown, the technique has expanded to more complex applications and patient subsets beyond those initially studied. Concerns regarding the risk of vascular complications following transradial procedures persist and questions regarding the safety and feasibility of repeated radial access have been raised. This article reviews various complications of the upper extremity associated with the transradial approach for catheter-based interventions. We discuss the vascular changes following radial artery cannulation, and describe in detail the incidence, risk factors, identification, and treatment of radial artery spasm, radial artery occlusion, radial pseudoaneurysm, radiobrachial perforation, forearm hematomas and compartment syndrome, hand ischemia, and radial artery avulsion. This review serves as a practical guide to the common and uncommon complications of the upper extremity that the contemporary transradial operator may be faced with.