Thomas C Bower

The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA

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Publications (77)197.56 Total impact

  • Article: Results of elective and emergency endovascular repairs of popliteal artery aneurysms.
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    ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVE: Endovascular repair has emerged as a treatment option for popliteal artery aneurysms. Our goal was to analyze outcomes of elective and emergency endovascular popliteal artery aneurysm repair (EVPAR). METHODS: This was a retrospective review of clinical data of patients treated with EVPAR at our institution between 2004 and 2010. Stent-related complications, patency, outcome limb salvage, and survival were evaluated and analyzed. RESULTS: EVPAR was performed in 31 limbs of 25 patients (mean age, 81 years; range, 65-89 years). Repair was elective in 19 limbs (61%) and emergent in 12 (39%). One aneurysm ruptured and 11 presented with acute thrombosis. All 11 underwent thrombolysis before EVPAR. Patients were implanted with a mean of 2.1 Viabahn stent grafts (range, 1-4). Ten procedures (32%) were performed percutaneously and 21 by femoral cutdown. Technical success was 97%. Overall 30-day mortality was 6.4%, with 0% in the elective group, and 16.7% in the emergent group (P = .14). Early complications included graft thrombosis in two limbs (6.4%) and hematoma in four (13%), all after percutaneous repair. Myocardial infarction and thrombolysis-associated intracranial hemorrhage occurred in one patient each (3.2%). The 30-day primary and secondary patencies were 93.6% and 96.7%, respectively, and were 100% in the elective group and 83.3% and 91.6%, respectively, for the emergent group. Mean follow-up was 21.3 months (range, 1-75 months). Primary patency at 1 year was 86% (95% for elective, 69% for emergent; P = .56), secondary patency at the same time was 91% (elective, 100%; emergent, 91%). One-year limb salvage was 97%. Two-year survival was 91% for the elective group and 73% for the emergent group (P = .15). Five stent occlusions were encountered after 30 days, four in the elective group. Four underwent successful reintervention, two had bypass, and two had thrombolysis, followed by angioplasty. The fifth patient was asymptomatic and nonambulatory and remains under observation. Stent graft infolding occurred in one limb (3.2%), with no clinical sequelae. No stent migration or separation was observed. One stent fracture was noted in an asymptomatic patient. Three (10%) type II endoleaks were detected but none had aneurysm expansion. One (3.2%) type I endoleak was treated percutaneously with placement of an additional stent graft. Overall, major adverse events, including death, graft occlusion with or without reoperation, or reoperation for endoleak or stent infolding occurred after 11 procedures (35.5%). On univariate analysis, no factors predicted stent failure, including runoff, antiplatelet therapy, emergency repair, number of stents implanted, heparin bonding of the stent, or degree of stent oversizing. CONCLUSIONS: These results support elective EVPAR in anatomically suitable patients with increased risk for open repair; however, major adverse events after EVPAR, mainly after emergency repairs, are frequent. A prospective randomized multicenter study to justify EVPAR in the emergent setting is warranted.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 01/2013; · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Patient survival after open and endovascular mesenteric revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischemia using propensity score-matched comparison.
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    ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVE: To evaluate long-term patient survival and causes of death after open (OR) or endovascular (ER) mesenteric revascularization for atherosclerotic chronic mesenteric ischemia using propensity score-matched comparison and clinical risk stratification. METHODS: The clinical data of 343 patients treated with mesenteric revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischemia between 1991 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical, anatomical, and procedure-related variables were analyzed using a multivariate model to identify independent predictors of any-cause early and late (>30 days) mortality. Cause of death was retrieved from review of the National Death Index. Patient survival was analyzed using Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) comorbidity scores and propensity score-matched comparison based on independent predictors of any-cause mortality. RESULTS: There were 187 patients treated by OR and 156 patients treated by ER. Early procedure-related mortality was 2.6% (9/343), including five OR (2.7%) and four ER (2.6%) patients. Median follow-up was 96 ± 54 months (range, 1-168 months). There were 144 late deaths, most commonly from cardiac causes in 35% (51/144), followed by cancer in 15% (21/144), pulmonary complications in 13% (19/144), and mesenteric ischemia in 11% (16/144). A further 21 patients died from various identifiable causes, and 14 patients (10%) died of unknown causes. Overall, 25 patients (7.3%) died of mesenteric-related causes, including nine early and 16 late deaths (OR, 10/187; 8.0%, and ER, 6/156; 6.4%). Multivariate analysis identified age >80, diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage IV or V, and home oxygen therapy as independent predictors (P < .05) of any cause of death. Diabetes and CKD stage IV or V were independently associated with mesenteric-related death (P < .05). Late patient survival at 5 years in the OR and ER groups was 75% ± 4% and 60% ± 9% for low SVS risk (<9), 52% ± 8% and 43% ± 9% for intermediate SVS risk (9-16), and 67% ± 15% and 30% ± 8% for high SVS risk (>16). Using propensity matched scores, 5-year survival was nearly identical for patients treated by OR (60%) or ER (57%; P = .7). CONCLUSIONS: Long-term patient survival after mesenteric revascularization was not influenced by type of arterial reconstruction. Age >80 years, diabetes, CKD stage IV or V, and home oxygen were independent predictors of any-cause mortality. Diabetes and CKD stage IV or V were independently associated with mesenteric-related death.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 01/2013; · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Primary angiosarcoma of the aorta, great vessels, and the heart.
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    ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVE: Primary angiosarcomas originating from the heart, aorta, or great vessels are extremely rare and hence poorly understood. We reviewed our experience to identify a preferred diagnostic and treatment strategy and evaluate the role of adjunctive therapy. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical data of all patients diagnosed with primary angiosarcoma of the heart, aorta, and great vessels from 1985 to 2011, including presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes. RESULTS: Thirteen patients (five males and eight females; mean age, 54 ± 4 years) had primary angiosarcoma arising from the aorta (n = 7), heart (n = 3), pericardium (n = 2), and pulmonary artery (n = 1). Patients with aortic tumors most commonly presented with lower extremity claudication (n = 2), renovascular hypertension (n = 3), abdominal pain (n = 5), and weight loss (n = 4). Patients with cardiac and pericardial tumors presented with dyspnea (n = 5) due to pleural effusion or cardiac tamponade. All 13 patients underwent computed tomographic scan, which demonstrated irregular, lobulated mass/thrombus with peripheral enhancement, and eight patients underwent diagnostic echocardiography. Metastatic disease was present in 10 patients. The most common site was the lungs (n = 6). All except one patient exhibited high-grade morphology histopathologically. Nine patients were treated surgically: resection with aortic reconstruction (n = 5), thromboendarterectomy (n = 2), pericardiectomy/atrial septal resection with patch reconstruction (n = 2), and just biopsy (n = 1). Adjunctive treatment included chemotherapy (n = 6) and radiation (n = 4). Median survival was 8 months (range, 1-75 months). Patients treated with all three treatment modalities had longer survival than did patients treated with a single modality (P = .013). Patients treated with chemotherapy had a more favorable survival than did those without chemotherapy (P = .048). CONCLUSIONS: Primary angiosarcoma of the heart and great vessels is rare but is a harbinger of poor prognosis. Pathologic examination is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Combined therapy with surgical resection and chemoradiotherapy offers patients the best survival.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 01/2013; · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Common femoral artery endarterectomy for lower-extremity ischemia: evaluating the need for additional distal limb revascularization.
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    ABSTRACT: The role of common femoral artery endarterectomy (CFE) and the need for distal revascularization is challenging in certain clinical scenarios. For some patients with claudication or rest pain CFE alone may suffice, however, some surgeons advocated that in-line flow must be re-established in patients with major tissue loss for wound healing purposes. The decision when to perform CFE with or without distal revascularization is sometimes difficult. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of common femoral artery endarterectomy (CFE) to define predictive factors for additional distal revascularization. Retrospective review of 262 consecutive CFEs in 230 patients with lower-extremity ischemia between 1997 and 2008. Patients were divided into two groups: group A (n = 169; CFE alone) and group B (n = 93; CFE + distal revascularization). Concomitant iliac intervention was included only if performed by endovascular approach. Patients were analyzed by Rutherford category (RC) and TransAtlantic InterSociety Consensus (TASC) II classification. Primary end points were mortality, patency, reintervention, and limb salvage. Demographics, preoperative Society for Vascular Surgery score assessment, and TASC II classification did not differ between groups. Mean follow-up was 75 months (range: 1-128 months). Technical success was obtained in all patients. RC (3 ± 1.2 vs. 5 ± 1.4; P = 0.001), diabetes (33% vs. 52%; P = 0.005), mean operative time (+154 minutes; P < 0.001), and length of hospital stay (+1.7 days; P = 0.03) were higher in group B. Reintervention rates were higher in group B than group A (12% vs. 3%; P = 0.015). For patients with RC 5/TASC D lesions and patients with RC 6 regardless of TASC, initial distal revascularization (group B) was associated with fewer reinterventions or major amputations (29%) than CFE alone (67%) (P = 0.002). The cumulative 5-year primary patencies for groups A and group B were 96% and 92%, respectively. Secondary patency was 100% at both time points. Limb salvage was also lower in patients with RC 5 and 6 (P = 0.01; P = 0.02). Overall survival was 93% at 1 year and 77% at 5 years. Independent predictors for distal revascularization were RC 5 or 6 (P < 0.001), TASC D lesions (P < 0.0001), diabetes (P = 0.04), and being on anticoagulation (P = 0.003). There was no difference in survival between the two groups for RC 1 to 5 (P = 0.2), but for patients with RC 6, survival was improved in group B (39% vs. 67%; P = 0.9). CFE alone is sufficient for patients with lower-extremity ischemia who present with life-limiting claudication regardless of TASC lesion and for those with RC 5 and TASC lesions A to C. Patients with RC 5 and TASC D lesions and those with major tissue loss (RC 6) regardless of TASC lesion are better served with additional distal revascularization to improve limb salvage, reintervention, and survival rates.
    Annals of Vascular Surgery 10/2012; 26(7):946-56. · 1.03 Impact Factor
  • Article: Impact of preoperative embolization on outcomes of carotid body tumor resections.
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    ABSTRACT: This study assessed neurovascular complications in the surgical management of carotid body tumors (CBTs), with emphasis on those treated with and without preoperative embolization. We reviewed the clinical data of all consecutive patients with CBTs treated by surgical resection at our institution from 1985 to 2010. Outcomes were compared between Shamblin class II and III CBTs treated with preoperative embolization (EMB group) and with no preoperative embolization (NEMB group). A total of 131 patients (80 women, 51 men), who were aged 48 years (range, 16-84 years), had resection of 144 CBTs and 12 concurrent cervical paragangliomas. This included 18 patients who had bilateral resections and 29 with familial CBTs. Succinate dehydrogenase (SDHx) mutations were confirmed in 17 patients. Mean tumor volume was 20.5 cm(3) (range, 0.8-101.3 cm(3)), and there were two biochemically active CBTs (1%). There were 71 Shamblin II and 33 Shamblin III. The EMB group underwent 33 CBT resections, and the NEMB group underwent 71. There were more patients in the EMB group with bilateral (48% vs 22%; P = .01) and familial (34% vs 14%; P = .01) CBT; otherwise, patient demographics, Shamblin class, and tumor diameter and volumes were similar. No strokes or other major complications occurred after preoperative embolization with polyvinyl alcohol particles 1 day before surgery. The EMB group required less extensive procedures (simple excision in 97% vs 82%, P = .03; internal carotid artery clamping in 15% vs 37%, P = .04) and had less blood loss (mean estimated blood loss, 263 vs 599 mL; P = .002) than the NEMB group. However, there were no significant differences in operative time (250 vs 265 minutes; P = .49), temporary cranial nerve injury (52% vs 38%; P = .21), clinically apparent cranial nerve deficits after 1 year (12% vs 7%; P = .46), deaths (0% vs 0%; P > .99), stroke (0% vs 1%; P > .99), or postoperative length of stay (4.1 vs 4.2 days; P = .91). Large CBTs can be resected safely with or without preoperative embolization. Preoperative embolization may simplify the conduct of the operation and reduce blood loss but does not decrease rates of cranial nerve injury, although most are temporary.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 06/2012; 56(4):979-89. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Comparison of open and endovascular repair of inflammatory aortic aneurysms.
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    ABSTRACT: Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms (IAAAs) have been traditionally managed with open repair. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) was approved September of 1999. Some authors have suggested that EVAR is not an acceptable option for management of an IAAA. However, several recent reports have suggested EVAR is a reasonable management option in these patients. The purpose of our study was to review our experience with the contemporary management of IAAA involving both open and endovascular approaches. A retrospective review of all patients undergoing repair of IAAAs from 1999 to 2011 was conducted at three geographically separate institutions. Basic demographics, diagnostic workup, treatment, and outcomes were reviewed. Between 1999 and 2011, 69 patients underwent surgical repair of IAAAs, 59 by open repair and 10 by EVAR. Eighty-three percent of patients were men with a mean age of 67. Aneurysm size was similar in both groups (6.3 cm open repair vs 5.9 cm EVAR). Follow-up for the open group was a mean of 42.6 months and 33.6 months for the EVAR group. Periaortic fibrosis decreased from a mean of 5.4 mm to 2.7 mm after EVAR. Hydronephrosis was present preoperatively in one patient and did not change after EVAR. Aneurysm size decreased in seven patients (70%) who underwent EVAR. Two patients had no change with one lost to follow-up. Mean aneurysm size decrease after EVAR was 1.12 cm (17.8%). There were no aneurysm-related deaths or major morbidities in the EVAR group. Twenty-two patients (37%) in the open surgical group suffered major complications, including myocardial infarction, renal failure, lower extremity amputation, sepsis, and prolonged ventilation. Endovascular repair for IAAA results in successful management with improvement of periaortic inflammation. EVAR should be considered as first-line therapy in which anatomic parameters are favorable.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 06/2012; 56(4):951-6. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Revascularization for acute mesenteric ischemia.
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    ABSTRACT: Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) remains difficult to diagnose, carries a high rate of complications, and is associated with significant mortality. We evaluated our experience with AMI over the last 2 decades to evaluate changes in management and assess current outcomes. Data from consecutive patients who underwent arterial revascularization for AMI over a 20-year period (January 1990-January 2010) were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, treatment modalities, and outcomes over the last decade (2000-2010) were compared with those of the preceding decade (1990-1999) previously reported. Over the last 2 decades, 93 patients with AMI underwent emergency arterial revascularization. Forty-five patients were treated during the 1990s and 48 during the 2000s. The majority of these patients were transferred from outside facilities. Patient demographics and risk factors were similar between the 2 decades with the exception that the more contemporary patients were significantly older (65.1 ± 14 vs 71.3 ± 14; P = .04). Etiology remained constant between the groups with in situ thrombosis being the most common followed by arterial embolus. The majority of patients were treated with open revascularization. Endovascular therapy alone or as a hybrid procedure was used in 11 total patients, eight of which were treated in the last 10 years. The use of second-look laparotomy was much more liberal in the last decade (80% vs 48%; P = .003) Thirty-day mortality was 27% in the 1990s and 17% during the 2000s (P = 0.28). Major adverse events occurred in 47% of patients with no difference between decades. There was no significant difference in outcomes between open and endovascular revascularization. On univariate analysis, elevated SVS comorbidity score, congestive heart failure, and chronic kidney disease predicted early death, while a history of chronic mesenteric ischemia appeared protective. On multivariate analysis, no factor independently predicted perioperative mortality. Bowel resection and cerebrovascular disease predicted postoperative morbidity, while advanced age and connective tissue disease predicted long-term mortality. Morbidity and mortality from AMI continues to be high. Revascularization by endovascular means, although more frequent in the last decade, was still utilized in a minority of patients with severe AMI. Advanced ischemia with bowel infarction at presentation, and markers of generalized atherosclerosis are predictors of poor outcome, while history of chronic mesenteric ischemia is associated with better outcome.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 04/2012; 55(6):1682-9. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Current role and future directions of hybrid repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
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    ABSTRACT: Hybrid procedures were introduced as a less invasive alternative to open conventional repair, avoiding thoracotomy, single-lung ventilation, and in many patients, aortic cross-clamping. Despite these potential advantages over open repair, results of hybrid repair have varied in the literature, with several reports indicating high morbidity and mortality rates. It is likely that once fenestrated and branched endografts receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration for clinical use, indications for hybrid repair of complex aortic aneurysms will further diminish. This article summarizes the current state of the art on patient selection, techniques, and results of hybrid procedures for the treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
    Perspectives in Vascular Surgery 03/2012; 24(1):14-22.
  • Article: Evolution from open surgical to endovascular treatment of ureteral-iliac artery fistula.
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    ABSTRACT: To review the indications and results of open surgical and endovascular treatment for ureteral-iliac artery fistula (UIAF). We reviewed the clinical data of 20 consecutive patients treated for 21 UIAFs between 1996 and 2010. Since 2004, iliac artery stent grafts were the primary treatment except for complex fistulas with enteric contamination or abscess. Endpoints were early morbidity and mortality, patient survival, vessel or graft patency, freedom from vascular or stent graft/graft infection, and freedom from recurrent bleeding. There were 20 patients, 15 females, and five males, with mean age of 63 ±13 years. Predisposing factors for UIAF were prior tumor resection in 18 patients, radiation in 15, ureteral stents in 15, ileal conduits in four, and ileofemoral grafts in three. All patients presented with hematuria, which was massive in 10. Treatment included iliac stent grafts in 11 patients/12 fistulas (55%), with internal iliac artery (IAA) exclusion in nine, femoral crossover graft with IAA exclusion in five, direct arterial repair in three, and ureteral exclusion with percutaneous nephrostomy and no arterial repair in one. There were no early deaths. Five of eight patients treated by open surgical repair developed complications, which included enterocutaneous fistula in three and superficial wound infection in two. Four patients (36%) treated by iliac stent grafts had complications, including pneumonia, non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, buttock claudication, and early stent occlusion in one each. After a median follow-up of 26 months, no one had recurrent massive hematuria, but minor bleeding was reported in three. Patient survival at 5 years was 42% compared with 93% for the general population (P < .001). Freedom from any recurrent bleeding at 3 years was 76%. In the stent graft group, primary and secondary patency rates and freedom from stent graft infection at 3 years were 81%, 92%, and 100%. UIAF is a rare complication associated with prior tumor resection, radiation, and indwelling ureteral stents. In select patients without enteric communication or abscess, iliac artery stent grafts are safe and effective treatment, and carry a low risk of recurrent massive hematuria or stent graft infection on early follow-up. Direct surgical repair carries a high risk of enterocutaneous fistula.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 02/2012; 55(4):1072-80. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Mesenteric artery complications during angioplasty and stent placement for atherosclerotic chronic mesenteric ischemia.
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    ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to describe the incidence, management, and outcomes of mesenteric artery complications (MACs) during angioplasty and stent placement (MAS) for chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI). We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 156 patients treated with 173 MAS for CMI (1998-2010). MACs were defined as procedure-related mesenteric artery dissection, stent dislodgement, embolization, thrombosis, or perforation. End points were procedure-related morbidity and death. There were 113 women and 43 men (mean age, 73 ± 14 years). Eleven patients (7%) developed 14 MACs, including distal mesenteric embolization in six, branch perforation in three, dissection in two, stent dislodgement in two, and stent thrombosis in one. Five patients required adjunctive endovascular procedures, including in two patients each, catheter-directed thrombolysis or aspiration, retrieval of dislodged stents, and placement of additional stents for dissection. Five patients (45%) required conversion to open repair: two required evacuation of mesenteric hematoma, two required mesenteric revascularization, and one required bowel resection. There were four early deaths (2.5%) due to mesenteric embolization or myocardial infarction in two patients each. Patients with MACs had higher rates of mortality (18% vs 1.5%) and morbidity (64% vs 19%; P <.05) and a longer hospital length of stay (6.3 ± 4.2 vs 1.6 ± 1.2 days) than those without MACs. Periprocedural use of antiplatelet therapy was associated with lower risk of distal embolization or vessel thrombosis (odds ratio, 0.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.06-0.90). Patients treated by a large-profile system had a trend toward more MACs (odds ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 0.7-26.5; P = .07). MACs occurred in 7% of patients who underwent MAS for CMI and resulted in higher mortality, morbidity, and longer hospital length of stay. Use of antiplatelet therapy reduced the risk of distal embolization or vessel thrombosis. There was a trend toward more MACs in patients who underwent interventions performed with a large-profile system.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 02/2012; 55(4):1063-71. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Contemporary management of giant renal and visceral arteriovenous fistulae.
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    ABSTRACT: To evaluate our experience with treatment of giant arteriovenous fistulae (AVFs) involving the renal and visceral vasculature and assess outcomes. Clinical data from 12 consecutive patients (10 women; median age 58 years, range 37-79) undergoing intervention for 14 giant renal/visceral AVFs over a 15-year period (1994-2008) were retrospectively reviewed. Only patients with extra-parenchymal, wide arteriovenous communications were included. Thirteen were located in the renal artery and one in the splenic artery. The etiology was most likely post-traumatic/iatrogenic in 6 patients, idiopathic in 4 (1 bilateral), congenital in 1 (bilateral), and one was associated with fibromuscular dysplasia. In 4 cases, the lesion was asymptomatic. Two large renal AVFs were treated with open surgery: one elective AV fistula repair early in our experience and the other an emergent nephrectomy for rupture. Twelve AV fistulae were closed successfully using endovascular techniques performed solely through the feeding vessel without cannulating the draining vein. All symptomatic patients, except one with continued dyspnea from cardiac causes, had complete symptomatic relief. There was no mortality. Morbidity included 2 access site hematomas that were managed conservatively. Loss of renal parenchyma ranged from 5% to 30%, but median serum creatinine levels remained stable. Endovascular treatment of giant renal/visceral AVFs is challenging but feasible and safe, with good organ preservation. Endovascular techniques have replaced open surgical repair as a first-line treatment for these challenging lesions.
    Journal of Endovascular Therapy 12/2011; 18(6):811-8. · 2.86 Impact Factor
  • Article: Efficacy of combined renal and mesenteric revascularization.
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    ABSTRACT: Small numbers of patients have advanced renal and mesenteric vascular disease requiring treatment. Open surgical treatment has been considered high risk, and the advent of endovascular intervention has affected management. This study evaluated the safety and long-term efficacy of concomitant mesenteric and renal revascularization with open techniques. Data from 90 consecutive patients who underwent mesenteric and renal revascularization during a 30-year period were analyzed. Early and late outcomes were evaluated over two intervals: 48 in period A (1978 to 1995), concomitant open renal and mesenteric revascularization (COR; n = 46) and sequential open renal and mesenteric revascularization (SOR; n = 2); 42 in period B (1996 to 2009), 22 COR, 4 SOR, 13 sequential hybrid open/endovascular repairs (SOER), and 3 sequential endovascular repairs (SER). There were 26 men and 64 women (median age, 67 years). Renal insufficiency was present in 24% and coronary artery disease (CAD) in 53%. Open surgical reconstruction was performed in 126 renal and 149 mesenteric arteries, with angioplasty/stenting in 15 and 8, respectively; 58 patients had concomitant aortic reconstruction (AR), and 9 had prior AR (8 in period A, 1 in period B). Hospital mortality was 8.8% overall; seven (14.5%) in period A and one (2.3%) in period B. Causes of early death were hemorrhage in three and multisystem organ failure in five. During a median follow-up of 4.5 years (range, 6 days-26.5 years), 11 patients progressed to hemodialysis (7 COR, 4 SOER), and 6 had recurrent mesenteric ischemia (4 COR, 1 SOER, 1 SER). Eight patients in period A and seven in period B required further procedures (9 renal, 9 mesenteric; 11 COR, 2 SOER, 1 SOR, 1 SER). Univariate analysis of COR patients showed CAD (P = .017) and prior AR (P = .035), but not concomitant AR (P = .366), predicted early death. Five-year survival for COR patients was 65% overall, but 74% in patients who survived the operation, with no difference between time periods (P = .55). Concomitant open mesenteric and renal revascularization is associated with low early mortality and good long-term durability in appropriately selected patients. It remains a viable procedure, especially in patients requiring concomitant aortic reconstruction. High-risk patients with CAD or prior aortic surgery should be considered for endovascular treatment, when anatomically feasible.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 11/2011; 55(2):406-12. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: A novel approach using pulmonary artery catheter-directed rapid right ventricular pacing to facilitate precise deployment of endografts in the thoracic aorta.
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    ABSTRACT: Controlled hypotension is critical for precise deployment of endografts in the thoracic aorta and for safe balloon dilation after deployment. We describe a novel approach to rapid right ventricular pacing using a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) that is placed during the procedure for hemodynamic monitoring. The study included 27 patients (20 men and seven women), with a mean age of 74 years, who underwent endograft placement in the thoracic aorta with PAC-directed rapid right ventricular pacing. Hemodynamic parameters, accuracy of deployment, complications related to rapid right ventricular pacing and PAC placement, presence of endoleaks, and postoperative complications were evaluated. PAC-directed rapid right ventricular pacing was performed during endograft deployment and balloon dilation after deployment without technical difficulty. Each patient underwent a median of two pacing episodes (range, 1-4). The length of each pacing episode was a mean of 11 seconds (range, 8-14 seconds). Mean pacing rate was 170 ± 15 beats/min, which achieved an average mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 42 ± 8 mm Hg. After pacing cessation, the recovery time of MAP to prepacing levels was <5 seconds (mean, 2 seconds) in all but one patient. All endografts were precisely deployed at a mean of 2 mm from the intended placement site, and there was no unintentional branch vessel coverage. One patient with severe valvular heart disease died. There were nine endoleaks, one postoperative stroke (4%), and one access wound hematoma (4%). PAC-directed rapid right ventricular pacing is an effective method of inducing hypotension, enabling precise thoracic endograft deployment and safe balloon dilation after deployment. However, despite these advantages, the technique may be contraindicated in patients with severe valvular or ischemic heart disease.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 11/2011; 55(4):1196-201. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Reinterventions for stent restenosis in patients treated for atherosclerotic mesenteric artery disease.
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    ABSTRACT: Mesenteric artery angioplasty and stenting (MAS) has been plagued by high restenosis and reintervention rates. The purpose of this study was to review the outcomes of patients treated for mesenteric artery in-stent restenosis (MAISR). The clinical data of 157 patients treated for chronic mesenteric ischemia with MAS of 170 vessels was entered into a prospective database (1998-2010). Fifty-seven patients (36%) developed MAISR after a mean follow-up of 29 months, defined by duplex ultrasound peak systolic velocity >330 cm/s and angiographic stenosis >60%. We reviewed the clinical data, radiologic studies, and outcomes of patients who underwent reintervention for restenosis. End points were mortality and morbidity, patient survival, symptom recurrence, reintervention, and patency rates. There were 30 patients (25 female and five male; mean age, 69 ± 14 years) treated with reintervention for MAISR. Twenty-four patients presented with recurrent symptoms (21 chronic, three acute), and six had asymptomatic preocclusive lesions. Twenty-six patients (87%) underwent redo endovascular revascularization (rER) with stent placement in 17 (13 bare metal and four covered) or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in nine. The other four patients (13%) had open bypass, one for acute ischemia. There was one death (3%) in a patient treated with redo stenting for acute mesenteric ischemia. Seven patients (27%) treated by rER developed complications, including access site problems in four patients, and distal embolization with bowel ischemia, congestive heart failure and stent thrombosis in one each. Symptom improvement was noted in 22 of the 24 symptomatic patients (92%). After a mean follow-up of 29 ± 12 months, 15 patients (50%) developed a second restenosis, and seven (23%) required other reintervention. Rates of symptom recurrence, restenosis, and reinterventions were 0/4, 0/4, and 0/4 for covered stents, 2/9, 3/9, and 2/9 for PTA, 5/13, 8/13, and 5/13 for bare metal stents, and 1/4, 4/4, and 0/4 for open bypass. For all patients, freedom from recurrent symptoms, restenosis, and reinterventions were 70% ± 10%, 60% ± 10% and 50% ±10% at 2 years. For patients treated by rER, secondary patency rates were 72 ± 12 at the same interval. Nearly 40% of patients developed mesenteric artery in-stent restenosis, of which half required reintervention because of symptom recurrence or progression to an asymptomatic preocclusive lesion. Mesenteric reinterventions were associated with low mortality (3%), high complication rate (27%), and excellent symptom improvement (92%).
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 09/2011; 54(5):1422-1429.e1. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Surgical management of tumors invading the aorta and major arterial structures.
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    ABSTRACT: This study investigates surgical management of tumors arising from or involving the aorta and major arterial structures. A retrospective single institutional review was conducted of patients undergoing arterial resection for tumors involving the aorta or major arterial structures between January 1992 and May 2009 at a tertiary care center. Patients with tumors abutting arteries without necessitating resection and those involving only venous structures were excluded. Patients were analyzed in groups by vessel involvement: aorta, carotid, external/common iliac, internal iliac, superficial femoral, and miscellaneous. Sixty patients were identified and included for review. The iliac arteries were most often resected, and sarcomatous pathology was most common (37 patients, 62%). Twelve patients underwent aortic resection, with eight (67%) of these undergoing graft reconstruction, one (8%) graft patch, and two (17%) primary repair. None of the 17 patients undergoing internal iliac resection underwent reconstruction, whereas the majority of patients in all other groups underwent reconstruction. Thirty-day mortality (TDM) was 0% in all groups, except the aortic (2/12, 17% TDM), and internal iliac arteries (1/17, 6% TDM). Estimated blood loss varied widely and was not significantly different between vessel groups (p = 0.280). Overall, 44 of 60 (73%) patients had negative margins. Fourteen patients (23%) returned to the operating room, most for wound infection or dehiscence. Mean follow-up was 20.25 months (range: 0.5-122.0 months, SD: 23 months). Forty patients were followed up for more than 1 year. Thus, with an overall median follow-up of 12.25 months, overall survival was 60% with disease-free survival of 40%. Resection of tumors involving the aorta and major arterial structures provides a reasonable option for treatment, but with significant perioperative morbidity. In selected patients, this aggressive intervention should be considered.
    Annals of Vascular Surgery 07/2011; 25(8):1026-35. · 1.03 Impact Factor
  • Article: Retrograde supra-aortic stent placement combined with open carotid or subclavian artery revascularization.
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    ABSTRACT: To review the outcomes of retrograde supra-aortic vessel stent (RSAS) placement combined with open carotid or subclavian artery revascularization. Retrospective review of all consecutive patients between 1995 and 2010, excluding transfemoral procedures or isolated retrograde stent placement. There were 11 patients (9 females, mean age 65 years). Open revascularization included carotid endarterectomy in 6 patients, carotid-subclavian bypass in 3, and carotid-carotid bypass in 2 patients. There were no operative deaths or neurological events. All symptomatic patients improved. Over a mean follow-up of 24 months, One patient developed common carotid artery (CCA) in-stent dissection and symptomatic restenosis treated with subclavian-carotid bypass. Another 3 patients had asymptomatic restenosis of the carotid bifurcation but required no intervention. Retrograde stenting of the common carotid or innominate artery is a safe and effective method to provide inflow in selected patients with severe supra-aortic vessel disease who require concomitant open carotid or subclavian artery reconstructions.
    Vascular and Endovascular Surgery 06/2011; 45(6):527-35. · 0.99 Impact Factor
  • Article: Differences in anatomy and outcomes in patients treated with open mesenteric revascularization before and after the endovascular era.
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    ABSTRACT: To compare the clinical characteristics, anatomy, and outcomes of patients treated with open mesenteric revascularization (OR) for chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) before and after the preferential use of endovascular revascularization (ER). We reviewed a prospective database of 257 patients treated for CMI with OR or ER from 1998 to 2009. Treatment trends were analyzed to identify changes in practice paradigm. Prior to 2002, OR was used in 58 of 81 patients (72%). Since 2002, ER surpassed OR as the most common treatment option; OR was indicated in 58 of 176 patients (33%) who either failed ER or had unfavorable lesions for stent placement. We analyzed differences in clinical data, anatomical characteristics, and outcomes in 116 patients treated with OR before (Pre-Endo, n = 58) and after 2002 (Post-Endo, n = 58). Anatomical characteristics were determined by a blinded investigator using conventional angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, and computed tomography angiography with centerline of flow measurements. Both groups had similar demographics, risk factors, and clinical presentation, with the exception of higher (P < .05) rates of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cardiac interventions, dysrhythmias, and higher comorbidity scores in the Post-Endo group. This group also had more extensive mesenteric artery disease, including higher incidence of three-vessel involvement (76% vs 57%; P = .048) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion (67% vs 41%;P = .005). There were no differences (P > .05) in the number of vessels revascularized (1.8 ± 0.4 vs 1.7 ± 0.5) and in graft configuration (antegrade, 91% vs 78%; retrograde, 9% vs 22%; two-vessel, 69% vs 81%) in the Pre- and Post-Endo groups, respectively. There were no differences in operative mortality (1.7% vs 3.4%), morbidity (43% vs 53%), length of stay (12 ± 1 vs 12 ± 1 days), and immediate symptom improvement (88% vs 86%) in the Pre- and Post-Endo groups, respectively. Mean follow-up was 57 ± 6 months for patients treated before 2002 and 29 ± 6 months for those treated after 2002 (P = .0001). At 5 years, primary and secondary patency rates and recurrence-free survival were 82%, 86%, and 84% in the Pre-Endo and 81%, 82%, and 76% in the Post-Endo groups (P > .05). OR has been used in approximately one-third of patients treated for CMI since 2002. Despite more comorbidities and more extensive mesenteric artery disease in patients now treated with OR, outcomes have not changed compared with those operated prior to the preferential use of mesenteric stents before 2002.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 06/2011; 53(6):1611-8.e2. · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: WITHDRAWN: A novel approach using pulmonary artery catheter-directed rapid right ventricular pacing to facilitate precise deployment of endografts in the thoracic aorta.
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    ABSTRACT: The Publisher regrets that this article is an accidental duplication of an article that has already been published, doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.10.003. The duplicate article has therefore been withdrawn.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 05/2011; · 3.52 Impact Factor
  • Article: Contemporary management of aberrant right subclavian arteries.
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    ABSTRACT: Aberrant origin of right subclavian arteries represents the most common of the aortic arch anomalies. This variant has few published series to guide management. Our goal was to review treatment options and results for these potentially complex reconstructions. A retrospective review was performed on all patients with a diagnosis of aberrant right subclavian artery at our institution between January 2003 and July 2009. A total of 24 patients, which comprises one of the largest series reported, including 10 males and 14 females (mean age: 46.6 years, range: 7-77), were diagnosed with an aberrant right subclavian artery. Sixteen (66%) were diagnosed incidentally, but eight (33%) had symptoms of either dysphagia, upper extremity ischemia, or both. Computed tomography was most commonly used to establish the diagnosis (19 patients, 79%). Magnetic resonance imaging established the diagnosis in three patients (12%), upper gastrointestinal barium study in one (4%), and standard angiography in one (4%). A Kommerell's diverticulum (KD) was the most common associated anomaly (seven patients, 29%). All seven patients (100%) with a KD required intervention for either symptoms or aneurysmal degeneration. Intervention was performed in 10 patients (42%), including carotid subclavian bypass in five (50%), carotid subclavian transposition in three (30%), and ascending aorta to subclavian bypass in two (20%). Four patients (40%) had additional intervention for management of aneurysmal disease of the aorta or KD, with open aortic replacement in two (20%) and aortic endografting in two (20%). There was one perioperative death (10%) in a patient undergoing aortic arch debranching with placement of an aortic endograft. In all, 18 patients survived without symptoms after a mean follow-up of 38 months. Aberrant right subclavian arteries are most commonly found incidentally with computed tomography. The presence of a KD seemed to correlate with the need for intervention. Patients with no symptoms with the absence of a KD can safely be followed.
    Annals of Vascular Surgery 05/2011; 25(4):508-14. · 1.03 Impact Factor
  • Article: Iliac artery stenting combined with open femoral endarterectomy is as effective as open surgical reconstruction for severe iliac and common femoral occlusive disease.
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    ABSTRACT: To compare outcomes of hybrid repair (HR) combining iliac artery stenting and open common femoral endarterectomy (CFE) with open aortoiliac and femoral reconstruction (OR) in patients with extensive iliac and common femoral occlusive disease (IFOD). Between 1998 and 2008, 92 patients (164 limbs) underwent OR and 70 (84 limbs) underwent HR. All patients underwent concomitant CFE. Thirty-day mortality and morbidity, long-term patency, procedurally related limb salvage, and overall survival were analyzed after stratification by iliac TransAtlantic InterSociety Consensus (TASC) classification into TASC A/B and TASC C/D. HR patients were older for both TASC groups (A/B, P = .02; C/D, P = .01) and had higher Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) cardiac comorbidity scores (A/B, P = .01; C/D, P < .001) compared with OR. Technical success was ≥99% in both groups. An increase in the ankle-brachial index after the procedure was significantly higher in OR patients (0.49 ± 0.28) with TASC A/B lesions than HR (0.22 ± 0.18, P = .031). Hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) lengths of stay were 3.9 days for HR patients in TASC C/D vs 9.4 days for OR patients (P = .005). Comparing HR and OR, 30-day morbidity (3% vs 5%, P = .55) and mortality (1.1% vs 1.4%, P = .85) were equivalent. Primary patency of HR vs OR at 3 years was similar (91% vs 97%, P = .29) and was maintained after stratification by TASC A/B (89% vs 100%, P = .38) and TASC C/D (95% vs 97%, P = .54). Multivariate analysis for patency indicated that major tissue loss (Rutherford class 6) at presentation in the HR group was predictive of decreased long-term patency (P = .02). Limb salvage at 3 years was 100% in both groups. Overall survival was 74% for OR vs 40% for HR (P = .007). IFOD can be treated using HR with similar early and long-term efficacy vs OR. HR patients with TASC C/D lesions experienced a shorter ICU and hospital stay than OR patients. HR should be considered for all patients with IFOD regardless the severity of TASC classification, particularly in those with high surgical risk. When deciding between HR and OR, one must consider that major tissue loss at presentation is a negative predictor of long-term patency in patients undergoing HR.
    Journal of vascular surgery: official publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter 04/2011; 54(2):402-11. · 3.52 Impact Factor

Institutions

  • 2013
    • The University of Arizona
      Tucson, AZ, USA
  • 2003–2012
    • Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
      • • Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
      • • Division of Vascular Surgery
      Jacksonville, FL, USA
  • 2002–2012
    • Mayo Clinic - Rochester
      • Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
      Rochester, MN, USA
    • Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
      • Department of Surgery
      Bethesda, MD, USA
  • 2011
    • Mayo Clinic
      Jacksonville, FL, USA
    • Emory University
      Atlanta, GA, USA
  • 2009
    • Eastern Virginia Medical School
      Norfolk, VA, USA
  • 2002–2004
    • Mayo Clinic - Scottsdale
      Scottsdale, AZ, USA