Journal of vascular surgery
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Delayed abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture is a well recognized complication of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). We wanted to evaluate the frequency, etiology, and outcomes of delayed AAA rupture following EVAR, and identify treatment options that facilitate improved survival. ⋯ Delayed AAA rupture following EVAR can be successfully managed in most patients by open surgical conversion or secondary EVAR. The approach to each patient should be individualized; complete stent graft explant is not necessary in most patients; a secondary EVAR for delayed AAA rupture with or without an elective conversion to open surgical repair remains a viable option. Vigilant routine follow-up is needed for all patients after EVAR.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Standardization is superior to traditional methods of teaching open vascular simulation.
Standardizing surgical skills teaching has been proposed as a method to rapidly attain technical competence. This study compared acquisition of vascular skills by standardized vs traditional teaching methods. ⋯ This study demonstrates the feasibility of open vascular simulation to assess the effect of differing teaching methods on performance outcome. Findings from this report suggest that for simulation training, standardized may be more effective than traditional methods of teaching. Transferability of simulator-acquired skills to the clinical setting will be required before open simulation can be unequivocally recommended as a major component of resident technical skill training.
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Endovascular repair of complex aortic aneurysms (CAAs) can be performed in high-risk individuals, yet is still associated with significant morbidity, including spinal cord ischemia, cardiac complications, and death. This analysis was undertaken to better define the cardiac risk for CAA. ⋯ Endovascular repair of CAA can be performed in high-risk individuals but is associated with significant cardiac risk. It remains difficult to risk stratify patients using preoperative stress testing. Echo evaluation may help to identify patients who may be more likely to develop ventricular arrhythmias in the postoperative period and thus warrant closer monitoring. Postoperative troponin monitoring of all patients undergoing repair of CAA is warranted given the overall risk of MI.
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Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is a rare but serious complication of deep venous thrombosis, which can lead to arterial compromise, tissue ischemia, and gangrene. It typically presents in an elderly population often with coexistent malignancy. ⋯ Pharmacologic and mechanical interventions as described in the adult population were utilized. This case demonstrates that an aggressive, multimodal approach to phlegmasia cerulea dolens can be employed in the pediatric population and result in successful limb salvage.
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Concerns over radiation safety are valid. Understanding and maintaining safe administration helps patients understand the potential risks during endovascular procedures. ⋯ The best defense against radiation injury to both patient and staff is to minimize the total fluoroscopy time, keep the image intensifier close to the patient, collimate to the region of interest, and use appropriate radiation shielding and monitoring.