Acute diverticulitis with extraluminal air: is conservative treatment sufficient? A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Acute diverticulitis with extraluminal air constitutes a heterogeneous condition whose management is controversial. The aims of this study are to report the failure rate of conservative treatment for diverticulitis with extraluminal air and to report risk factors of conservative treatment failure.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed from an institutional review board-approved database of patients admitted with acute diverticulitis with extraluminal air from 2015 to 2021 at a tertiary referral center. All patients managed for acute diverticulitis with covered perforation (without intraabdominal abscess) were included. The primary endpoint was failure of medical treatment, defined as a need for unplanned surgery or percutaneous drainage within 30 days after admission.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients (61% male, mean age 57 ± 17 years) were retrospectively included. Ten patients had failure of conservative treatment (11%). These patients were significantly older than 50 years (n = 9/10, 90% versus n = 47/83, 57%, p = 0.007), associated with cardiovascular disease (n = 6/10, 60% versus n = 10/83, 12%, p = 0.002), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 3-4 (n = 4/7, 57% versus 6/33, 18%, p = 0.05), under anticoagulant and antiplatelet (n = 6/10, 60% versus n = 11/83, 13%, p = 0.04) and steroid or immunosuppressive therapy (n = 3/10, 30% versus 5/83, 6%, p = 0.04), and with distant pneumoperitoneum location (n = 7/10, 70% versus n = 14/83, 17%, p = 0.001) compared with those with successful conservative treatment. On multivariate analysis, only distant pneumoperitoneum was an independent risk factor of failure (odds ratio (OR) 6.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2-21], p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Conservative treatment with antibiotics for acute diverticulitis with extraluminal air is safe with a success rate of 89%. Patients with distant pneumoperitoneum should be carefully monitored.

Transarterial Embolization of Simple Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations: Long-Term Outcomes of 0.018-Inch Coils versus Vascular Plugs

PURPOSE

To compare the safety, effectiveness, and persistence rates of 0.018-inch coils with those of Amplatzer vascular plugs (AVPs; Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, Illinois) for the treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) in response to a growing concern that 0.018-inch coil embolization would increase the long-term persistence rate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective, single-center study of a database (2002-2020) of 633 PAVM embolizations. Complex PAVMs and those not embolized with 0.018-inch coils or plugs were excluded. PAVM embolization material was classified into 4 groups: (a) 0.018-inch nonfibered coils (NFCs), (b) 0.018-inch fibered coils (FCs), (c) NFCs and FCs, or (d) plugs. Persistence was defined as flow through the PAVM on digital subtraction angiography (DSA) or as <30% diameter reduction of the aneurysmal sac on unenhanced computed tomography (CT). Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression were used to assess PAVM's persistence-free survival.

RESULTS

A total of 312 PAVM embolizations with NFCs (43 PAVMs), FCs (127 PAVMs), NFCs and FCs (12 PAVMs), or plugs (130 PAVMs) in 109 patients (28% men; mean age = 49 years) were included. All PAVM embolizations were technically successful without any major adverse events. PAVM persistence-free survival rates at 10 years' follow-up were 40.8% versus 44.7% in the NFC and FC groups (P = .22) and 47.3% versus 81.0% in the 0.018-inch coil (NFC or FC) and plug groups (P < .0001), respectively. There were 0.43 (79/182) and 0.08 (10/130) re-embolization procedures per PAVM in the 0.018-inch coil and plug groups, respectively (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

PAVM embolization with 0.018-inch coils was safe, but persistence rate with PAVM embolization was significantly higher than that with plugs, with no significant differences between FCs and NFCs.

Diffusion weighted imaging changes in extra-abdominal desmoid tumor after cryotherapy

Desmoid tumors (DT) are rare benign tumors with a local invasion potential and recurrence. It is characterized on histology by an abnormal fibroblastic proliferation in a collagenous stroma, in variable proportions leading to heterogeneity of the lesion signal on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Current guidelines propose watchful waiting but in case of progression or symptoms, cryotherapy may be a therapeutic option in its extra-abdominal form. Tumor recurrence is mostly detected based on post-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although DWI sequence is the key-sequence for tumor detection in oncologic imaging, there are very few data in literature on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) in DT generally and even fewer on DT after cryotherapy. DWI changes after cryotherapy may be confusing and suspicious of residual tumor or tumor recurrence when displaying low ADC values; thus knowledge of possible DWI patterns after cryotherapy of DT seem paramount. We found that the early changes of DT after cryotherapy are hyperintensity on DWI sequence with low ADC values (<1.00 × 10^-3mm²/s), without corresponding enhancement and a later decrease in signal of the treated lesion on DWI. The freezing-thawing cycles of cryotherapy turn DT into gelatinous necrosis with a slow resorption rate, as reported in the only few studies referring of changes of DWI signals after cryotherapy, which are on renal and prostate models. Hyperintensity on DWI with low ADC values may be seen in early MRI follow-up after cryotherapy of extra-abdominal DT, corresponding with tumor necrosis changes and should not be mistaken with recurrence.KEY MESSAGESMagnetic resonance imaging is the modality of choice for desmoid tumor (DT) follow-up, mainly based on contrast uptake which make data on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) very rare.Cryotherapy is an accepted therapeutic option for DT that will lead to tumor necrosis.Hyperintensity on DWI with low apparent diffusion coefficient values is a possible expected early pattern on DWI after cryotherapy of DT.

Prognostic factors after acute mesenteric ischemia: which patients require specific management?

PURPOSE

Diagnosis and treatment of AMI are a real issue for implicating physicians. In the literature, only one AMI stroke center has reported its results so far, with increasing survival rates. Our aim was to analyze acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) related mortality and predictive factors, in a single academic center, before creating a dedicated intestinal stroke center.

METHODS

All the patients with an AMI, between January 2015 and December 2020, were retrospectively included. They were divided into 2 groups according to the early mortality: death during the first 30 days and alive. The 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

173 patients (57% of men), were included, with a mean age of 68 ± 16 years. Overall mortality rate was 61%. Mortality occurred within the first 30 days in 78% of dead cases. Dead patients were significantly older, more frequently admitted from intensive care, with more serious clinical, laboratory and radiological characteristics. We have identified 3 protective factors - history of abdominal surgery (Odd Ratio = 0.1; 95%CI = 0.01-0.8, p = 0.03), medical management with curative anticoagulation (OR = 0.09; 95%CI = 0.02-0.5, p = 0.004) and/or antiplatelets (OR = 0.04; 95%CI = 0.006-0.3, p = 0.001)-, and 2 predictive factors of mortality - age > 70 years (OR = 7; 95%CI = 1.4-37, p = 0.02) and previous history of coronaropathy (OR = 13; 95%CI = 1.7-93, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

AMI is a severe disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. Even if its diagnosis is still difficult because of non-specific presentation, its therapeutic management needs to be changed in order to improve survival rates, particularly in patients older than 70 years with history of coronaropathy. Developing a dedicated organization would improve the diagnosis and the management of patients with AMI.

Distal cerebral vasospasm treatment following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage using the Comaneci device: technical feasibility and single-center preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Balloon-assisted mechanical angioplasty for cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) has a number of limitations, including transient occlusion of the spastic blood vessel. Comaneci is an FDA-approved device for temporary coil embolization assistance which has recently also been approved for the treatment of distal symptomatic refractory vasospasm. We aimed to report the feasibility, efficacy and safety of our experience with Comaneci angioplasty for refractory distal vasospasm (up to the second segment of the cerebral arteries) following aSAH.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospective series of 18 patients included between April 2019 and June 2021 with aSAH and symptomatic vasospasm refractory to medical therapy, who were treated using Comaneci-17-asssisted mechanical distal angioplasty. Immediate angiographic results, procedure-related complications, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Inter-rater reliability of the scores was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Comaneci-assisted distal angioplasty was performed in 18 patients, corresponding to 31 target arteries. All distal anterior segments were easily accessible with the Comaneci-17 device. Vasospasm improvement after Comaneci mechanical angioplasty was seen in 22 distal arteries (71%) (weighted Cohen's kappa (κ_w) 0.73, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.93). Vasospasm recurrence occurred in three patients (16.67%) and delayed cerebral infarction in three patients (16.67%), with a mean±SD delay between onset of symptoms and imaging follow-up (MRI/CT) of 32.61±8.93 days (κ_w 0.98, 95% CI 0.88 to 1).

CONCLUSION

This initial experience suggests that distal mechanical angioplasty performed with the Comaneci-17 device for refractory vasospasm following aSAH seems to be safe, with good feasibility and efficacy.

Prognostic value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance T1 mapping and extracellular volume fraction in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Heart failure- (HF) and arrhythmia-related complications are the main causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is a noninvasive tool for risk stratification based on fibrosis assessment. Diffuse interstitial fibrosis in NIDCM may be a limitation for fibrosis assessment through late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), which might be overcome through quantitative T1 and extracellular volume (ECV) assessment. T1 and ECV prognostic value for arrhythmia-related events remain poorly investigated. We asked whether T1 and ECV have a prognostic value in NIDCM patients.

METHODS

This prospective multicenter study analyzed 225 patients with NIDCM confirmed by CMR who were followed up for 2 years. CMR evaluation included LGE, native T1 mapping and ECV values. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) which was divided in two groups: HF-related events and arrhythmia-related events. Optimal cutoffs for prediction of MACE occurrence were calculated for all CMR quantitative values.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients (26%) developed a MACE during follow-up, 42 patients (19%) with HF-related events and 16 patients (7%) arrhythmia-related events. T1 Z-score (p = 0.008) and global ECV (p = 0.001) were associated with HF-related events occurrence, in addition to left ventricular ejection fraction (p < 0.001). ECV > 32.1% (optimal cutoff) remained the only CMR independent predictor of HF-related events occurrence (HR 2.15 [1.14-4.07], p = 0.018). In the arrhythmia-related events group, patients had increased native T1 Z-score and ECV values, with both T1 Z-score > 4.2 and ECV > 30.5% (optimal cutoffs) being independent predictors of arrhythmia-related events occurrence (respectively, HR 2.86 [1.06-7.68], p = 0.037 and HR 2.72 [1.01-7.36], p = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

ECV was the sole independent predictive factor for both HF- and arrhythmia-related events in NIDCM patients. Native T1 was also an independent predictor in arrhythmia-related events occurrence. The addition of ECV and more importantly native T1 in the decision-making algorithm may improve arrhythmia risk stratification in NIDCM patients. Trial registration NCT02352129. Registered 2nd February 2015-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02352129.

Endovascular therapies for hepatic artery stenosis post liver transplantation

PURPOSE

To evaluate primary patency at 12 months after endovascular therapies in hepatic artery stenosis.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all endovascular interventions for hepatic artery stenosis (HAS) after liver transplantation that occurred between June 2013 and November 2020 was performed at a single institution in France. Follow up occurred from 1 month to 4 years (median 15 months). The treatment consisted of dilation with a balloon or stent. We analyzed short-term (technical success and complications) and long-term outcomes (liver function, arterial patency, graft survival at 12 months (GS), and reintervention). We also compared percutaneous balloon angioplasty (PBA) with stent placement. PBA alone was used if < 30% residual stenosis of the hepatic artery was achieved. Stenting was performed if there was greater than 30% residual stenosis and in the case of complications (dissection or rupture).

RESULTS

A total of 18 stenoses were suspected on the basis of routine surveillance duplex ultrasound imaging (peak systolic velocity > 200 cm/s, systolic accelerating time > 10 ms and resistive index < 0.5), all of which were confirmed by angio CT, but only 17 were confirmed by angiography. Seventeen patients were included (14 males, mean age 57 years; and three females, mean age 58 years). Interventions were performed in 17 cases (95%) with PBA only (5/17), stent only (5/17) or both (4/17). Immediate technical success was 100%. Major complications occurred in 1 of 17 cases (5.8%), consisting of target vessel dissection. The analysis of the three (groups PBA only, stent only or both) showed the same procedural success (100%), GS (100%) and normal liver function after the procedures but different rates of complications (20% vs. 0% vs. 0%), arterial patency at 12 months (60% vs. 80% vs. 85%) (p = 0.4), early stenosis (40% vs. 80% vs. 0%) or late stenosis (60% vs. 20% vs. 100%) and requirement for reintervention (40% vs. 20% vs. 14%) (p = 0.56).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that PBA, stent, or both procedures show the same primary patency at 12 months. It is probably not a definitive answer, but these treatments are safe and effective for extending graft survival in the context of graft shortages.

Angio Cone-Beam CT (Angio-CBCT) and 3D Road-Mapping for the Detection of Spinal Cord Vascularization in Patients Requiring Treatment for a Thoracic Aortic Lesion: A Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Spinal cord ischemia is a major complication of treatment for descending thoracic aorta (DTA) disease. Our objectives were (1) to describe the value of angiographic cone-beam CT (angio-CBCT) and 3D road-mapping to visualize the Adamkiewicz artery (AA) and its feeding artery and (2) to evaluate the impact of AA localization on the patient surgical strategy.

METHODS

Between 2018 and 2020, all patients referred to our institution for a surgical DTA disorder underwent a dedicated AA evaluation by angio-CBCT. If the AA feeding artery was not depicted on angio-CBCT, selective artery catheterization was performed, guided by 3D road-mapping. Intervention modifications, based on AA location and one month of neurologic follow-up after surgery, were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients were enrolled. AA was assessable in 100% of patients and in 15 (71%) with angio-CBCT alone. Among them, 10 patients needed 3D road-mapping-guided DSA angiography to visualize the AA feeding artery. The amount of contrast media, irradiation dose, and intervention length were not significantly different whether the AA was assessable or not by angio-CBCT. AA feeding artery localization led to surgical sketch modification for 11 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Angio-CBCT is an efficient method for AA localization in the surgical planning of DTA disorders.

Automatic Deep-Learning Segmentation of Epicardial Adipose Tissue from Low-Dose Chest CT and Prognosis Impact on COVID-19

Background: To develop a deep-learning (DL) pipeline that allowed an automated segmentation of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) from low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) and investigate the link between EAT and COVID-19 clinical outcomes. Methods: This monocentric retrospective study included 353 patients: 95 for training, 20 for testing, and 238 for prognosis evaluation. EAT segmentation was obtained after thresholding on a manually segmented pericardial volume. The model was evaluated with Dice coefficient (DSC), inter-and intraobserver reproducibility, and clinical measures. Uni-and multi-variate analyzes were conducted to assess the prognosis value of the EAT volume, EAT extent, and lung lesion extent on clinical outcomes, including hospitalization, oxygen therapy, intensive care unit admission and death. Results: The mean DSC for EAT volumes was 0.85 ± 0.05. For EAT volume, the mean absolute error was 11.7 ± 8.1 cm3 with a non-significant bias of −4.0 ± 13.9 cm3 and a correlation of 0.963 with the manual measures (p < 0.01). The multivariate model providing the higher AUC to predict adverse outcome include both EAT extent and lung lesion extent (AUC = 0.805). Conclusions: A DL algorithm was developed and evaluated to obtain reproducible and precise EAT segmentation on LDCT. EAT extent in association with lung lesion extent was associated with adverse clinical outcomes with an AUC = 0.805.

Evaluation of Multiple Embolic Agents for Embolization of the Superior Rectal Artery in an Animal Model

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively compare the safety of transcatheter embolization of superior rectal arteries in healthy pigs with multiple agents such as coils, spheres and liquids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine adult domestic pigs (three males, mean weight: 60 kg [50-70]) were randomly assigned to the embolization group: copolymer of ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)-Onyx® (group 1, n = 3), microspheres 500 µ (group 2, n = 3), 2-mm micro-coils (group 3, n = 3). After a selective angiogram has been acquired, the embolic agent was infused at the distal part of rectal arteries. An angio-CT was performed before and after each embolization. After one week, angiography was repeated prior to euthanasia. At necropsy, the anorectal juncture was removed for histopathologic examination.

RESULTS

At necropsy, 100% of animals embolized with Onyx developed a significant necrosis zone of the distal part of the rectum. Histological examination revealed a mural infarction. For the micro-coil and microsphere groups, gross examination of the intestines did not reveal any evidence of ischaemia. The coils were found in the distal arterial vasculature of the meso-rectum, allowing a downstream revascularization by collaterals. The microspheres and onyx in the rectal wall, more distally.

CONCLUSION

Microspheres appear to induce fewer histologic complications than the liquid embolic agent and provide a more distal occlusion than micro-coils. These results suggest that, for superior rectal artery embolization, a super-selective embolization using spheres in human clinical conditions should be more effective and as safe as coil embolization. EVOH might be an unsafe embolization agent for haemorrhoids.

The white test for intraoperative screening of bile leakage: a potential trigger factor for acute pancreatitis after liver resection-a case series

Background

Acute pancreatitis after liver resection is a rare but serious complication, and few cases have been described in the literature. Extended lymphadenectomy, and long ischemia due to the Pringle maneuver could be responsible of post-liver resection acute pancreatitis, but the exact causes of AP after hepatectomy remain unclear.

Cases presentation

We report here three cases of AP after hepatectomy and we strongly hypothesize that this is due to the bile leakage white test. 502 hepatectomy were performed at our center and 3 patients (0.6%) experienced acute pancreatitis after LR and all of these three patients underwent the white test at the end of the liver resection. None underwent additionally lymphadenectomy to the liver resection. All patient had a white-test during the liver surgery. We identified distal implantation of the cystic duct in these three patients as a potential cause for acute pancreatitis.

Conclusion

The white test is useful for detection of bile leakage after liver resection, but we do not recommend a systematic use after LR, because severe acute pancreatitis can be lethal for the patient, especially in case of distal cystic implantation which may facilitate reflux in the main pancreatic duct.

Hemorrhoid embolization: A review of current evidences

Hemorrhoids are local vascular structure dilations in the lower rectum, associated with morbidity and reduced quality of life. Endovascular coil or particle embolization of the superior rectal arteries, known as Emborrhoid technique, is a minimally invasive, image-guided therapy that targets the hemorrhoidal plexus and reduces hemorrhage. The purpose of this review was to analyze the results of published studies to determine the efficacy, clinical outcomes, and morbidities associated with the endovascular occlusion of hemorrhoidal arteries for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids. Current evidences suggest that hemorrhoids treated by Emborrhoid technique using microcoils, embolic particles or a combination is safe with no reported serious complications. Hemorrhoid embolization can preserve the anal tone without direct anorectal trauma and maintain the hemorrhoidal tissue in place requiring minimal local wound care on an outpatient basis. However, due to the paucity of high-quality trials, further research is warranted to evaluate its long-term outcomes, compare its efficacy with other treatment modalities, and fully assess its role in the treatment of hemorrhoid.

Description of morphological evolution of lung tumors treated by percutaneous radiofrequency ablation: long term follow-up of 100 lesions with chest CT

PURPOSE

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment for pulmonary tumors. Patterns on chest computed tomography (CT) after RFA are classified into five types; however, the follow-up has not been fully described. The objectives of this study were to describe (1) the CT pattern 3 years after RFA and (2) its evolution over 7 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lesions treated with RFA between 2009 and 2017 and with ≥3 years of follow-up CT data were included. Lesions with local recurrences were excluded from the study. The morphology of the ablation zone was classified as nodular, fibrotic, atelectatic, cavitary, and disappeared. Other initial anatomical parameters were recorded. Kruskal-Wallis or Chi-square tests were used to compare the groups.

RESULTS

One hundred lung RFA scars were included, and a retrospective longitudinal study was performed. Three years after RFA, nodular, fibrotic, atelectatic, and cavitary scars, and disappearance were observed in 49%, 36%, 5%, 3%, and 6% of the scars, respectively. Evolution over 7 years showed that the fibrosis, atelectasis, and disappearance remained stable over time, whereas 28% of nodular scars evolved into fibrotic scars. Additionally, 45% of cavitary scars evolved into nodular scars. Pleural contact was associated with disappearance, and the use of a 20-mm needle was associated with atelectasis.

CONCLUSION

Follow-up after RFA showed that fibrosis, disappearance, and atelectasis remained stable over time. Nodular scars could evolve into fibrotic scars, and cavitary scars could evolve into nodular scars.

Safety and Efficacy of Peripheral Embolization with EASYX Liquid Embolic Agent: A Multicenter Prospective Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of EASYX, a new nonadhesive precipitating liquid embolic agent based on a polyvinyl alcohol ether polymer labeled with iodine molecules, for peripheral embolization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This open-label prospective multicenter study was conducted on 50 consecutive patients treated with embolization using EASYX in 3 academic hospitals from April 2018 to July 2019. Indications for embolization were symptomatic varicocele (n = 15), type II endoleak (n = 8), acute hemorrhage (n = 16), portal vein embolization (PVE; n = 9), or angiomyolipoma (AML; n = 2). Patient characteristics, technical and clinical success rates, pain at injection, and satisfaction of the interventional radiologists were assessed. Follow-up imaging was performed using ultrasound for varicoceles (at 1 month) and computed tomography (CT) for the other indications (at 3 or 6 months).

RESULTS

The immediate technical success rate was 98%. The clinical success rates were 100% for acute hemorrhage and type II endoleaks, 89% for PVE, 86% for varicoceles, and 50% for AMLs. Patients who underwent PVE showed significant hypertrophy of the future liver remnant at follow-up (P < .001), and 55.6% of patients proceeded to hepatectomy. The absence of artifacts on imaging allowed improved monitoring of the aneurysmal sac in patients with type II endoleaks. The satisfaction rate of the interventional radiologists was >90% for 5 of 7 items.

CONCLUSIONS

EASYX as a novel copolymer liquid embolic agent was safe and efficient for peripheral embolization. The absence of tantalum allowed reduced CT artifacts on imaging follow-up, which was especially useful in patients with type II endoleaks.

FairEmbo Concept for Arterial Embolizations: In Vivo Feasibility and Safety Study with Suture-Based Microparticles Compared with Microspheres

PURPOSE

Microspheres are effective embolic agents, especially for the management of bleeding and oncologic lesions. The first FairEmbo study reported the effectiveness of embolization using suture fragments. The effectiveness and safety of arterial embolization with suture-based microparticles (SBM) were assessed in a swine model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this ethical-approved animal study, a polar artery in each kidney was embolized in four swine: one side with hand-cut non-absorbable SBM (Flexocrin 2®) and the contralateral side with Embozene® 900 for comparison. Swine were followed for 3 months (M3) to evaluate the effectiveness and the safety of SBM. Follow-up protocol included clinical monitoring, computed tomography (CT) control and digital subtraction angiography (DSA), followed by histological analyses. The SBM confection parameters were evaluated by automatic microscopic sizer. RStudio software and Mann-Whitney test (significance at P < 0.05) were used for statistics.

RESULTS

The average size of SBM was 1002 μm (SD = 258). All targets were effectively embolized by SBM with an angiogram defect estimated at 45.6% (95% CI [35.9-55.2]), compared to 40.5% (95% CI [30.6-55.5]) for Embozene® group (P = 0.342). The average duration of SBM embolization procedure was significantly increased compared to Embozene® embolization (1202 s versus 222 s, P = 0.029). There were no statistical differences in M3 DSA and CT for SBM and Embozene®, with persistence of partial arterial occlusion and atrophic embolized area. No postoperative complications were observed on clinical and CT controls.

CONCLUSION

This experimental study suggests that embolization with SBM is feasible, safe and effective in short- and medium-term follow-up as compared to microspheres.

Left-ventricular non-compaction-comparison between different techniques of quantification of trabeculations: Should the diagnostic thresholds be modified?

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) is challenging, and different imaging techniques propose different criteria.

AIM

To compare the value of two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D-TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) criteria in diagnosing LVNC, and to test a new trabecular quantification method obtained by 2D-TTE, exploring its relationship with CMR non-compacted mass quantification.

METHODS

From a multicentre French study, we selected 48 patients with LVNC and 20 with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) who underwent 2D-TTE and CMR. Current 2D-TTE (Jenni et al.) and CMR criteria (Petersen et al., Jacquier et al.), were tested. A new 2D-TTE method of trabecular quantification (percentage of trabecular area) was also proposed, and compared with current criteria.

RESULTS

The best cut-off values for the diagnosis of LVNC were a non-compacted/compacted ratio≥2.3 (Petersen et al.), a trabeculated left ventricular mass≥20% (Jacquier et al.) and a non-compacted/compacted ratio≥1.8 (Jenni et al.). Lowering the threshold for the criterion of Jenni et al. from>2 to ≥1.8 improved its sensitivity from 69% to 98%. The 2D-TTE percentage of trabecular area was 25.9±8% in the LVNC group vs. 9.9±4.4% in the DCM group (P<0.05), and was well correlated with CMR non-compacted mass (r=0.65; P<0.05). A 15.8% threshold value for 2D-TTE percentage of trabecular area predicted LVNC diagnosis with a specificity of 95% and a sensitivity of 92%; its sensitivity was better than that for the criteria of Jenni et al. (P<0.01) and Petersen et al. (P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Revision of the current threshold for the criterion of Jenni et al. from>2 to ≥1.8 is necessary to improve LVNC diagnosis in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. A new 2D-TTE trabecular quantification method improves TTE diagnosis of LVNC.

Computed tomography-guided percutaneous cryoablation of T1b renal tumors: safety, functional and oncological outcomes

Purpose: To evaluate the safety, functional and oncological outcomes associated with percutaneous cryoablation of stage T1b renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Materials and methods: Institutional database was reviewed to identify patients treated by percutaneous CT-guidance cryoablation between 2013 and 2018 for biopsy-proven RCC tumors measuring 4.1-7.0 cm. The main outcome parameters analyzed were primary and secondary technique efficacy, progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), loss of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and complications. PFS and CSS were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Complications were graded by the Clavien-Dindo system. Results: Twenty-three consecutive patients were included (mean tumor diameter: 45.6 ± 6.2 mm; mean RENAL score: 8.1 ± 1.8). The technical success rate was 95.7%. Primary and secondary technique efficacy rates were 86.3 and 100%, respectively. Three patients found to have incomplete ablations at 3 months were successfully treated by repeat cryoablation. Median duration follow-up was 11 months (range: 3-33). Imaging showed PFS to be 85.7% at 6 months, 66.7% at 12 months and 66.7% at 24 months. One patient with a local recurrence at 12 months was treated by radical nephrectomy. One patient died from progression of disease within 12 months. One patient reported a complication grade ≥ II (4.3%). Mean eGFR loss was 4.4 ± 8.5 ml/min/1.73m², which was significantly higher among those treated for central tumors (p < .05). Conclusion: Cryoablation for stage T1b renal tumors is technically feasible, with favorable oncological and perioperative outcomes. Longer-term studies are needed to verify our findings.

[Central venous access in interventional radiology]

Some patients require iteratives intravenous administrations on a central catheter, for example in oncology or infectiology, which represents a challenge for ambulatory treatment. Interventional radiology could provide solutions with the implant and monitoring of PICC-lines and ports. These are implanted in sterile environment and under imaging guidance in an interventional radiology room by an operator and with a paramedical team that need to be experienced. This development focus on the interest of one method with respect to the other, as well as the differents ways to do, the complications that could arise and the monitoring of these devices.

In Vivo Feasibility of Arterial Embolization with Permanent and Absorbable Suture: The FAIR-Embo Concept

PURPOSE

Arterial embolization has been shown to be effective and safe for the management of bleeding, especially for postpartum and pelvic traumatic bleeding. We propose to evaluate the proof of concept of feasibility and effectiveness of arterial embolization with absorbable and non-absorbable sutures in a porcine model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the acute setting (n = 1), several different arteries (mesenteric, splenic, pharyngeal, kidney) were embolized using non-absorbable sutures (NAS): Mersutures™ braided sutures (polyethylene terephthalate). In the chronic setting (n = 3), only lower pole renal arteries were embolized. On the right side, NAS was used, whereas on the left side embolization was realized with absorbable suture (AS): Vicryl^® braided suture (polyglactin 910). The chronic group was followed for 3 months. The pigs received contrast-enhanced CT the day before embolization (D-1), after the embolization (D0), at 1 month and 3 months after embolization (M1 and M3); digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was done at D0 and M3 and histological analysis at M3.

RESULTS

All vascular targets were effectively embolized without any pre- or postoperative complications. Both DSAs and CTs at M3 showed a 100% recanalization rate for the AS embolization and a partial reversal rate for the NAS embolization. A renal hypotrophy in the embolized region was observed during both the M1 and M3 scans for both sutures (AS and NAS) with a clear hypotrophy for the NAS embolized kidney.

CONCLUSION

Embolization by AS and NAS (FAIR-Embo) is a feasible and effective treatment which opens up the possibility of global use of this inexpensive and widely available embolization agent.

Embolization of the superior rectal arteries for chronic bleeding due to haemorrhoidal disease

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of the emborrhoid technique (embolization of the superior haemorrhoidal arteries) in patients ineligible for surgery.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and April 2015, 30 consecutive patients (average age 58 years) suffering from disabling chronic bleeding due to haemorrhoidal disease and with a contraindication for surgery (n = 23) or with a failure of instrumental or surgical treatment (n = 7) underwent embolization. All cases were discussed at multidisciplinary meetings including a proctology specialist or a surgeon and an interventional radiologist. We performed super selective micro coil embolization (pushable 2-3 mm fibre coils) of the distal branches of the superior rectal arteries with a microcatheter, via a right femoral approach, under local anaesthesia. We assessed clinical outcome by evaluating bleeding and specific clinical scores relating to bleeding and changes in quality of life.

RESULTS

Immediate technical success, with no complication, was achieved in 93% of cases. A mean of 3.1 arteries per patient was embolized, with a mean of 7.6 coils per patient. Median follow-up was 5 months. Clinical score improvement was observed in 72%, in 17 patients after a single embolization session, and in four additional patients after a second embolization session. No improvement in bleeding was observed in eight patients (28%).

CONCLUSION

Distal coil embolization of the superior rectal arteries for disabling chronic bleeding due to haemorrhoidal disease is safe and effective in patients untreatable by surgery.

Safety and efficacy of superior rectal artery embolization with particles and metallic coils for the treatment of hemorrhoids (Emborrhoid technique)

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the short-term outcomes after percutaneous embolization of the superior rectal artery (SRA) with metallic coils and particles for the management of hemorrhoids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients (15 men, 25 women) with a mean age of 35±5 years (SD) (range: 25-65 years) were prospectively enrolled. All patients had symptomatic hemorrhoids. The distribution of internal hemorrhoids was as follows: grade I (n=6, 16%); grade II (n=28, 69%) and grade III (n=6; 15%). All patients had percutaneous embolization of the SRA with metallic coils and synthetic polyvinyl alcohol particles. Follow-up evaluation included clinical examination, rectoscopy, histopathological analysis of rectal mucosa, duplex Doppler blood flow quantification, electromyography, sphincterometry of the anal sphincter and analysis of patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

No immediate complications were observed and no patients had anal pain syndrome after embolization. Hemorrhoids showed a 43% size reduction after embolization (P<0.05). Taking into account the symptom resolutions such as irritation, discomfort, bloody discharge and pain, satisfaction was observed in 5/6 (83%) patients with grade III hemorrhoids and 32/34 patients (94%) with grades I-II hemorrhoids. One month after embolization, anal sphincter contractility normalized and no changes in anal electromyography were observed. Blood flow in the hemorrhoidal plexus dropped from 109±1.2ml/min/100g (SD) before treatment to 60.2±4.4ml/min/100g (SD) (P<0.05) the day after embolization and remained unchanged one month after embolization.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that embolization of SRA with particle and coils does not lead to ischemia in patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids. Short-term results with regard to symptom management for hemorrhoidal disease are very encouraging and should stimulate further prospective and multicenter studies.

Emborrhoid: a new concept for the treatment of hemorrhoids with arterial embolization: the first 14 cases

PURPOSE

The 'emborrhoid' technique consists of the embolization of the hemorrhoidal arteries. The endovascular arterial occlusion is performed using coils placed in the terminal branches of the superior rectal arteries. The emborrhoid technique has been modeled after elective transanal Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation which has been shown to be effective in hemorrhoidal disease. We report the first 14 cases of our experience with emborrhoid technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen patients with disabling chronic rectal bleeding were treated using the emborrhoid technique (3 women, 11 men). The stage of the hemorrhoidal disease was II (10 patients), III (3), and IV (1). This treatment was decided by a multidisciplinary team (proctologist, visceral surgeon, and radiologist). Seven patients underwent previous proctological surgery. Ten patients had coagulation disorders (anticoagulants or cirrhosis). Superior rectal arteries were embolized with pushable microcoils (0.018).

RESULTS

Technical success of the embolization procedure was 100 %. Clinical success at 1 month was 72 % (10/14). Of the 4 patients who experienced rebleeding, two underwent additional embolization of the posterior rectal arteries with success. No pain or ischemic complications were observed in 13 patients. One patient experienced a temporary painful and edematous, perianal reaction.

CONCLUSION

Our case studies suggest that coil embolization of the superior rectal arteries is technically feasible, safe and well tolerated. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of this new 'emborrhoid' technique in the management of hemorrhoidal disease.