Guidance for the Management of Patients with Vascular Disease or Cardiovascular Risk Factors and COVID-19: Position Paper from VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine

COVID-19 is also manifested with hypercoagulability, pulmonary intravascular coagulation, microangiopathy, and venous thromboembolism (VTE) or arterial thrombosis. Predisposing risk factors to severe COVID-19 are male sex, underlying cardiovascular disease, or cardiovascular risk factors including noncontrolled diabetes mellitus or arterial hypertension, obesity, and advanced age. The VAS-European Independent Foundation in Angiology/Vascular Medicine draws attention to patients with vascular disease (VD) and presents an integral strategy for the management of patients with VD or cardiovascular risk factors (VD-CVR) and COVID-19. VAS recommends (1) a COVID-19-oriented primary health care network for patients with VD-CVR for identification of patients with VD-CVR in the community and patients' education for disease symptoms, use of eHealth technology, adherence to the antithrombotic and vascular regulating treatments, and (2) close medical follow-up for efficacious control of VD progression and prompt application of physical and social distancing measures in case of new epidemic waves. For patients with VD-CVR who receive home treatment for COVID-19, VAS recommends assessment for (1) disease worsening risk and prioritized hospitalization of those at high risk and (2) VTE risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban, betrixaban, or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) for those at high risk. For hospitalized patients with VD-CVR and COVID-19, VAS recommends (1) routine thromboprophylaxis with weight-adjusted intermediate doses of LMWH (unless contraindication); (2) LMWH as the drug of choice over unfractionated heparin or direct oral anticoagulants for the treatment of VTE or hypercoagulability; (3) careful evaluation of the risk for disease worsening and prompt application of targeted antiviral or convalescence treatments; (4) monitoring of D-dimer for optimization of the antithrombotic treatment; and (5) evaluation of the risk of VTE before hospital discharge using the IMPROVE-D-dimer score and prolonged post-discharge thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban, betrixaban, or LMWH.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on early outcome of carotid endarterectomy

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus increases the risk of ischaemic stroke in the general population but its impact on early outcome after the carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is controversial with conflicting results.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective study includes 902 consecutive CEAs. Patients were divided into non-diabetic and diabetic groups and subsequently analysed. Early outcomes in terms of 30-day stroke and death rates were then analysed and compared.

RESULTS

There were 606 non-diabetic patients. Among 296 diabetic patients, 83 were insulin-dependent. The cumulative TIA/stroke rate was statistically higher in the diabetic group (2.6 vs. 5.7 %, P = 0.02). Stroke was more frequent in the diabetic group (2.0 vs. 4.4 %, P = 0.04) comparedto TIA (0.7 vs. 1.4 %, P = 0.45). Mortality was statistically more frequent in diabetic patients (0.2 vs. 1.7 %, P = 0.01). The 30-day stroke/death rate (2.6 vs. 5.7 %, P = 0.02) was also statistically higher in the diabetic group. Factors that were identified to increase risk of death and stroke in multivariate analysis were: use of insulin for blood glucose control (OR = 2.47, 95 % CI 1.61-4.68, P = 0.01), higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol value (OR = 1.52, 95 % CI 1.15-2.22, P < 0.01), presence of coronary disease (OR = 2.04, 95 % CI 1.40-3.31, P = 0.03), peripheral artery disease (OR = 2.14, 95 % CI 1.34-3.65, P = 0.02), complicated plaque (OR = 1.77, 95 % CI 1.11-3.68, P = 0.03), contralateral carotid artery occlusion (OR = 2.37, 95 % CI 1.25-4.74, P = 0.02), shunt use (OR = 3.46, 95 % CI 1.18-7.10, P < 0.01), and among diabetic patients higher HbA1c levels (OR = 1.28, 95 % CI 1.05-1.66, P = 0.03). Clamp toleration was associated with lower risk of death and stroke rates (OR = 0.43, 95 % CI 0.23-0.76, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, perioperative neurological complications and mortality were statistically higher in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic patients during CEA. Further research will have to show whether other treatment modalities of carotid artery stenosis and better glycaemia and dyslipidaemia controlling in diabetics can reduce this risk.

Cardiovascular Implications of Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, Thyroid Disease, and Cardio-Oncology in Women

Cardiovascular disease may be associated with several comorbidities, including diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, and the metabolic syndrome, which are predominantly observed in women and often starting at particular ages. In addition, common treatment options for carcinomas frequently seen in women may induce serious cardiotoxic effects. We review the scope of the problem, the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved, as well as the resulting abnormalities regarding cardiac structure and function as observed by using imaging techniques.

ESVM guidelines – the diagnosis and management of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Abstract. Regarding the clinical diagnosis of Raynaud’s phenomenon and its associated conditions, investigations and treatment are substantial, and yet no international consensus has been published regarding the medical management of patients presenting with this condition. Most knowledge on this topic derives from epidemiological surveys and observational studies; few randomized studies are available, almost all relating to drug treatment, and thus these guidelines were developed as an expert consensus document to aid in the diagnosis and management of Raynaud’s phenomenon. This consensus document starts with a clarification about the definition and terminology of Raynaud’s phenomenon and covers the differential and aetiological diagnoses as well as the symptomatic treatment.

Aortobifemoral Grafting: Factors Influencing Long-Term Results

We present the results and respective determinant factors of 283 consecutive aortobifemoral bypasses. This prospective study included 283 patients with aortoiliac atherosclerotic occlusive disease treated by aortobifemoral reconstructions. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts were used in 136 patients and Dacron® grafts in 147 patients. The 30-day mortality rate was 11 patients (3.9%). Perioperative (< 30 days) graft failure occurred in 6 patients (2.1%), whereas in 14 (5.25%) patients, it occurred during the follow-up period. There were 3 (1.05%) distal anastomotic pseudoaneurysms and 5 (1.7%) graft infections, with no statistical difference between the two types of grafts. The type of prosthesis did not influence cumulative graft patency. The end-to-end configuration of proximal anastomosis and a simultaneously performed femoropopliteal bypass significantly increased the graft patency ( p < .05). The associated occlusion of the superficial femoral and popliteal arteries decreased the cumulative graft patency in comparison with that of the patients without artery disease ( p < .05). Our results showed that in the aortobifemoral position, there was no significant difference in the patency, anastomotic pseudoaneurysms, and graft infection between PTFE and Dacron grafts. However, the PTFE grafts had a significantly higher rate ( p < .05) of distal anastomotic stenosis, which was mostly caused by neointimal hyperplasia.

Carotid Artery Aneurysms

We present the treatment of 17 extracranial carotid artery aneurysms in 16 patients (1 patient had bilateral lesions). There were 15 (93.75%) male patients and 1 (6.25%) female patient, with an average age of 64.8 years. Two (11.8%) aneurysms involved the common carotid artery and 15 (88.2%) the internal carotid artery. Two (11.8%) aneurysms presented with rupture, 3 (17.6%) as an asymptomatic mass, 2 (11.8%) with cranial nerve compression, 6 (35.3%) with transient ischemic attack, and 4 (23.5%) with stroke. The following surgical procedures were performed: extirpation with 8 mm Dacron graft replacement, 5 (29.4%) cases; extirpation with end-to-end anastomosis, 8 (47.1%) cases; extirpation with saphenous vein graft replacement, 3 (17.6%) cases; and ligature of the internal carotid artery, 1 (5.9%) case. One (5.9%) patient died postoperatively owing to stroke. Including this case, 3 (17.6%) patients had a postoperative stroke, whereas 2 (11.8%) patients had transient cranial nerve damage. Sixteen surviving patients were followed from 2 months to 15 years (mean 5 years, 3 months). During this period, 1 patient died 5 years postoperatively owing to a myocardial infarction, whereas all other patients were alive and free of neurologic symptoms. Extracranial carotid artery aneurysms are rare. However, they are of medical importance because of their location, differential diagnosis, natural history, complications, and treatment.

Low incidence of complications after cephalic vein cutdown for pacemaker lead implantation in children weighing less than 10 kilograms: A single-center experience with long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

Only a few studies on the cephalic vein cutdown technique for pacemaker lead implantation in children weighing ≤10 kg have been reported even though the procedure is widely accepted in adults.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to prove that cephalic vein cutdown for pacemaker lead implantation is a reliable technique with a low incidence of complications in children weighing ≤10 kg.

METHODS

The study included 44 children weighing ≤10 kg with an endocardial pacemaker. Cephalic, subclavian, and axillary vein diameters were measured by ultrasound before implantation. The measured diameters were used to select either an endocardial or epicardial surgical technique. Regular 6-month follow-up visits included pacemaker interrogation and clinical and ultrasound examinations.

RESULTS

Two dual-chamber and 42 single-chamber pacemakers were implanted. Mean weight at implantation was 6.24 kg (range 2.25-10.40 kg), and mean age was 11.4 months (range 1 day-47 months). In 40 children (90.1%), the ventricular leads were implanted using the cephalic vein cutdown technique, and implantation was accomplished via the prepared right external jugular vein in 4 of the children (9.9%). The atrial leads were implanted using axillary vein puncture and external jugular vein preparations. Mean follow-up was 8.9 years (range 0-20.9 years). Only 1 pacemaker-related complication was detected (a lead fracture near the connector that was successfully resolved using a lead repair kit).

CONCLUSION

The cephalic vein cutdown technique is feasible and reliable in children weighing ≤10 kg, which justifies the application of additional surgical effort in the treatment of these small patients.

Coexistence of internal carotid artery stenosis in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm

Background and Objectives

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) and carotid disease have medical and social significance, considering their morbidity, disability, and economic consequences. The study objectives were to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic internal carotid artery (ICA) lesions ≥70% in patients with AAA, the correlation of AAA diameter with the degree of ICA stenosis and symptoms, and the importance of preventive ultrasound checkups.

Subjects and Methods

A prospective non-randomized controlled study including 740 patients, aged from 18-85 years, who were suitable for the inclusion and exclusion criteria and reported at the vascular laboratory of the Institute for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Clinical Center of Serbia from 1st of December 2011 to the 1st of November 2012.

Results

The prevalence of asymptomatic ICA stenosis ≥70% in patients with AAA is 10.8%. Male representatives have more symptomatic ICA stenosis ≥70%. Patients with small aneurysms more often have asymptomatic ICA stenosis ≥70%. The occurrence of symptoms of carotid disease was more prevalent among patients with ICA stenosis ≥70% compared to the group with stenosis <70%. There was no correlation found between the grade of ICA stenosis with the size of AAA.

Conclusion

The prevalence of asymptomatic ICA stenosis ≥70% in patients with AAA is found to be 10.8%. Male patients with ICA stenosis ≥70% more often had symptoms of carotid disease. In the smaller aneurysms, ICA stenosis ≥70% occurs frequently, but without the symptoms of carotid disease, and there was no correlation between the size of AAA and the grade of ICA stenosis. Clinical implications of ICA imaging in patients with previously diagnosed AAA is necessary.

Sitagliptin reduces plaque macrophage content and stabilises arteriosclerotic lesions in Apoe (-/-) mice

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), such as sitagliptin, increase glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) concentrations and are current treatment options for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. As patients with diabetes exhibit a high risk of developing severe atherosclerosis, we investigated the effect of sitagliptin on atherogenesis in Apoe (-/-) mice.

METHODS

Apoe (-/-) mice were fed a high-fat diet and treated with either sitagliptin or placebo for 12 weeks. Plaque size and plaque composition were analysed using Oil Red O staining and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, in vitro experiments with the modified Boyden chamber and with gelatine zymography were performed to analyse the effects of GLP-1 on isolated human monocyte migration and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) release.

RESULTS

Treatment of Apoe (-/-) mice with sitagliptin significantly reduced plaque macrophage infiltration (the aortic root and aortic arch both showing a 67% decrease; p < 0.05) and plaque MMP-9 levels (aortic root showing a 69% and aortic arch a 58% reduction; both p < 0.01) compared with controls. Moreover, sitagliptin significantly increased plaque collagen content more than twofold (aortic root showing an increase of 58% and aortic arch an increase of 73%; both p < 0.05) compared with controls but did not change overall lesion size (8.1 ± 3.5% vs 5.1 ± 2.5% for sitagliptin vs controls; p=NS). In vitro, pretreatment of isolated human monocytes with GLP-1 significantly decreased cell migration induced by both monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and by the protein known as regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, GLP-1 significantly decreased MMP-9 release from isolated human monocyte-derived macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Sitagliptin reduces plaque inflammation and increases plaque stability, potentially by GLP-1-mediated inhibition of chemokine-induced monocyte migration and macrophage MMP-9 release. The effects observed may provide potential mechanisms for how DPP-IV inhibitors could modulate vascular disease in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Characteristics of low-density and high-density lipoprotein subclasses in pediatric renal transplant recipients

Renal transplant recipients often suffer from dyslipidemia which is one of the principal risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This study sought to determine characteristics of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles and their associations with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in a group of pediatric renal transplant recipients. We also examined the influence of immunosuppressive therapy on measured LDL and HDL particle characteristics. HDL size and subclass distribution were determined using gradient gel electrophoresis, while concentrations of small, dense LDL (sdLDL)-cholesterol (sdLDL-C) and sdLDL-apolipoprotein B (sdLDL-apoB) using heparin-magnesium precipitation method in 21 renal transplant recipients and 32 controls. Renal transplant recipients had less HDL 2b (P < 0.001), but more HDL 3a (P < 0.01) and 3b (P < 0.001) subclasses. They also had increased sdLDL-C (P < 0.01) and sdLDL-apoB (P < 0.05) levels. The proportion of the HDL 3b subclasses was a significant predictor of increased cIMT (P < 0.05). Patients treated with cyclosporine had significantly higher sdLDL-C and sdLDL-apoB concentrations (P < 0.05) when compared with those on tacrolimus therapy. Pediatric renal transplant recipients have impaired distribution of HDL and LDL particles. Changes in the proportion of small-sized HDL particles are significantly associated with cIMT. Advanced lipid testing might be useful in evaluating the effects of immunosuppressive therapy.

Protocols for efficient repetitive and secondary somatic embryogenesis in Helianthus maximiliani (Schrader)

 Indirect somatic embryogenesis was induced on leaf explants of greenhouse-grown Helianthus maximiliani plants. Leaves of the regenerated plants were used as starting explants for the induction of direct somatic embryogenesis. Another cycle of somatic embryogenesis was induced on the leaves of regenerated plants. In both cases, leaf explants were cultured on media containing different auxin/cytokinin ratios. The auxin/cytokinin ratio had an influence on the intensity of embryo formation, germination and the capability to regenerate plants. Somatic embryogenesis was generally more intensive on the medium with lower concentrations of 6-benzylamino-purine. Further, the percentage of regenerated plants was higher when embryos were induced on high-cytokinin, low-auxin medium. Secondary somatic embryogenesis was induced on embryos by culture in liquid hormone-free medium. Similar to direct embryogenesis the efficiency of secondary embryogenesis depended on the medium used for the induction of the primary embryos. In contrast to the mostly low frequencies of conversion of secondary embryos into plants that has been observed in other species, the percentage of regenerated plants from secondary embryos of H. maximiliani was quite high, although slightly lower than that obtained in primary embryos.

[Possibility of serious damage when handling air guns]

The possibilities of serious injury being caused by firearms are well known. Less known is the fact that air guns also have such potential. We present the case of a six year old boy shot in the back with an air gun at a distance of four meters. Vital signs were normal. A small entrance wound was found in the back. On a CT scan, an air gun pellet was found to be situated partly inside the posterior wall of the stomach. There was no sign of peritonitis or complications of any other kind so one chose to await the course of events without surgical intervention. A few days later the patient was discharged in good health. An X-ray taken some days later showed no projectile; it seems to have migrated into the gastrointestinal tract and been shed along with faeces. The available literature suggests that air guns have considerable penetration abilities; this case underlines that. Articles on this subject are summarized and we discuss the options available in similar cases.