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International Journal of Emergency... Jun 2024Many cases of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are diagnosed in the emergency department, and abbreviated lower extremity venous point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has already...
BACKGROUND
Many cases of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are diagnosed in the emergency department, and abbreviated lower extremity venous point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has already shown an accuracy comparable to that of specialists. This study aimed to identify the learning curve necessary for emergency medicine (EM) residents to achieve expertise-level accuracy in diagnosing DVT through a 3-point lower extremity venous POCUS.
METHODS
This prospective study was conducted at an emergency department between May 2021 and October 2022. Four EM residents underwent a one-hour POCUS training session and performed DVT assessments in participants with DVT symptoms or confirmed pulmonary embolism. POCUS was performed at three proximal lower extremity sites to evaluate the thrombi presence and vein compressibility, with results validated by specialized radiology ultrasound. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) and the Bush and Mosteller models were used to analyze the learning curve, while generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors affecting diagnostic accuracy.
RESULTS
91 POCUS scans were conducted in 49 patients, resulting in 22% DVT confirmed by specialized venous ultrasound. In the CUSUM analysis, all four EM residents attained a 90% success rate at the common femoral vein, whereas only half achieved this rate when all three sites were considered. According to Bush and Mosteller models, 13-18 cases are required to attain 90-95% diagnostic accuracy. After 10-16 cases, the examination time for each resident decreased, and a 20% increase in examiner confidence was linked to a 2.506-fold increase in the DVT diagnosis accuracy.
CONCLUSION
EM residents generally required 13-18 cases for 90-95% DVT diagnostic accuracy, but proficiency varied among individuals, particularly requiring more cases for regions outside the common femoral vein.
PubMed: 38886639
DOI: 10.1186/s12245-024-00645-x -
Factors associated with incomplete resection for large, locally invasive non-small cell lung cancer.Journal of Thoracic Disease May 2024Large, node-negative but locally invasive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with increased perioperative risk but improved survival if a complete...
BACKGROUND
Large, node-negative but locally invasive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with increased perioperative risk but improved survival if a complete resection is obtained. Factors associated with positive margins in this population are not well-studied.
METHODS
We performed a retrospective cohort study using National Cancer Database (NCDB) for adult patients with >5 cm, clinically node-negative NSCLC with evidence of invasion of nearby structures [2006-2015]. Patients were classified as having major structure involvement (azygous vein, pulmonary artery/vein, vena cava, carina/trachea, esophagus, recurrent laryngeal/vagus nerve, heart, aorta, vertebrae) or chest wall invasion (rib pleura, chest wall, diaphragm). Our primary outcome was to evaluate factors associated with incomplete resection (microscopic: R1, macroscopic: R2). Kaplan-Meier analysis and cox multivariable regression models were used to evaluate overall survival (OS), 90-day mortality, and factors associated with positive margins.
RESULTS
Among 2,368 patients identified, the median follow-up was 33.8 months [interquartile range (IQR), 12.6-66.5 months]. Most patients were white (86.9%) with squamous cell histology (47.3%). Major structures were involved in 26.4% of patients and chest wall invasion was seen in 73.6%. Four hundred and seventy-eight patients (20.2%) had an incomplete resection. Multivariable analysis revealed that black race [hazard ratio (HR) 1.568, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.109-2.218] and major structure involvement (HR 1.412, 95% CI: 1.091-1.827) was associated with increased risk of incomplete resection and surgery at an academic hospitals (HR 0.773, 95% CI: 0.607-0.984), adenocarcinoma histology (HR 0.672, 95% CI: 0.514-0.878), and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (HR 0.431, 95% CI: 0.316-0.587) were associated with decreased risk of incomplete resection. The 5-year OS was 43.7% in the entire cohort and 28.8% in patients with positive margins and 47.5% in patients with an R0 resection. Positive margin was also associated with a significantly higher 90-day mortality rate (9.9% versus 6.7%).
CONCLUSIONS
For patients with large, node-negative NSCLC invading nearby structures, R0 resection portends better survival. Treatment at academic centers, adenocarcinoma histology, and receipt of neoadjuvant chemotherapy are associated with R0 resection in this high-risk cohort.
PubMed: 38883676
DOI: 10.21037/jtd-23-989 -
Cureus May 2024The clotting system has evolved as an adaptive mechanism to prevent blood loss during vascular damage. However, the intricate nature of the clotting cascade and the...
The clotting system has evolved as an adaptive mechanism to prevent blood loss during vascular damage. However, the intricate nature of the clotting cascade and the complexities of human life can sometimes lead to the unnatural activation of this delicate cascade. This can result in blood clot formation within the cardiovascular system, contributing to a wide range of pathological conditions. Abnormal intravascular coagulation most commonly occurs in the deep veins of the lower extremities, and can emboli to other organs, hence, it is termed "venous thromboembolism" (VTE). In this report, we introduce a challenging case of VTE that poses a dilemma for current medical management. The patient with possible protein S deficiency underwent various guideline-directed medical treatments, yet experienced recurrent VTE episodes, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), leading to hospital readmissions. This case report sheds light on our challenges in effectively treating VTE.
PubMed: 38883011
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60517 -
Cureus May 2024Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) represents a group of anomalies consisting of a lack of connection between the pulmonary veins and the left atrium. All...
Total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) represents a group of anomalies consisting of a lack of connection between the pulmonary veins and the left atrium. All oxygenated pulmonary venous return flows directly or indirectly into the right atrium. Survival is only possible with a right-to-left atrial shunt. It remains rare, accounting for less than 1% of all congenital heart diseases. Its association with tetralogy of Fallot is much rarer and has been documented in medical literature as isolated cases. Early prenatal diagnosis, rapid surgical repair, and optimal postoperative resuscitation appear to be the best guarantee of a favorable outcome following total repair of a pulmonary venous connection anomaly. Non-obstructed forms present as high-flow shunts with moderate cyanosis. The symptomatology of blocked forms is dominated by the obstruction to venous return; a clinical picture of respiratory distress with intense cyanosis and severe pulmonary arterial hypertension develops from the first days of life. Echocardiography is fundamental in diagnosing TAPVR. If the results are inconclusive, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are appropriate alternatives for establishing a complete and accurate diagnosis. We report a case of a two-month and 22-day-old infant who is a product of a twin pregnancy, presenting with a non-obstructed TAPVR associated with tetralogy of Fallot, and his twin who died on day 20 of life, likely due to a complex cyanotic congenital heart disease.
PubMed: 38882998
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60493 -
Journal of Medical Ultrasound 2024This article comprehensively reviews the literature concerning prenatal ultrasound findings of isolated total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) and the... (Review)
Review
This article comprehensively reviews the literature concerning prenatal ultrasound findings of isolated total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) and the application of specific sonographic markers to differentiate among the TAPVR types. These markers can be categorized as direct and indirect, based on either morphological features or hemodynamic changes in TAPVR. Indirect markers include the ventricular disproportion, an increased distance between the left atrium (LA) and the descending aorta, as well as the dilatation of superior vena cava or coronary sinus for supracardiac or cardiac TAPVR, along with abnormal pulmonary venous spectral Doppler patterns. Direct markers predominantly focus on the absence of a connection between the pulmonary veins and the LA. Some direct markers are specific to certain TAPVR types, such as the vertical vein. Diagnosing isolated TAPVR can pose challenges, but following a sequential approach can improve detection rates and outcomes. In cases with equivocal findings, additional follow-ups are recommended. The sequential approach described in the current article provides a step-wise methodology and sonographic markers for prenatal diagnosis of TAPVR, which can be utilized by fetal-maternal medicine specialists, obstetricians, and radiological technicians to ensure timely interventions.
PubMed: 38882613
DOI: 10.4103/jmu.jmu_4_24 -
Respiratory Medicine Case Reports 2024Nephrotic syndrome (NS) had serious complications due to hypercoagulable state in both various venous and arteries which could lead thromboembolic events. we described a...
Nephrotic syndrome (NS) had serious complications due to hypercoagulable state in both various venous and arteries which could lead thromboembolic events. we described a case of a 41-year-old man who presented with pulmonary artery thrombosis and was diagnosed with NS. Early diagnosis and management of nephrotic syndrome may prevent the occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
PubMed: 38881775
DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2024.102052 -
Journal of Pharmaceutical and... Jun 2024TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 3 (TIMP-3) may contribute to the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, few studies have investigated the effect of...
TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 3 (TIMP-3) may contribute to the pathogenesis of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, few studies have investigated the effect of TIMP-3 on VTE. Therefore, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to investigate the association between TIMP-3 levels and VTE. Seven independent single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for TIMP-3 levels were obtained from a published genome-wide association study (the KORA Consortium, including 997 Europeans). We obtained outcome datasets for VTE, pulmonary embolism (PE), and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) from the FinnGen Consortium. The primary analytical method used in the MR analysis was the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. To enhance the robustness of the MR results, some other MR methods including weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO were conducted. Moreover, several sensitivity analyses were performed to identify potential horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity. In primary IVW MR analyses, per log increase in genetically predicted TIMP-3 levels were positively associated with the incidence of VTE (odds ratio [OR], 1.03; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.01, 1.06; P = 0.010), PE (OR, 1.04; 95 % CI, 1.01, 1.08; P = 0.009), and DVT (OR, 1.06; 95 % CI, 1.02, 1.10; P= 0.003). The results of the weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO were similar to the main findings. No unbalanced pleiotropy or heterogeneity was observed. The study suggests that genetically predicted high levels of TIMP-3 may be associated with an increased risk of VTE. These findings indicate that strategies targeting TIMP-3 may provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of VTE. Further investigation is required to clarify this potential mechanism.
PubMed: 38878456
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116290 -
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and... Jun 2024Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) are among the most severe complications following total hip arthroplasty revision (THAR), imposing significant burdens on...
BACKGROUND
Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) are among the most severe complications following total hip arthroplasty revision (THAR), imposing significant burdens on individuals and society. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors of PPCs following THAR using the NIS database, identifying specific pulmonary complications (SPCs) and their associated risks, including pneumonia, acute respiratory failure (ARF), and pulmonary embolism (PE).
METHODS
The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was used for this cross-sectional study. The analysis included patients undergoing THAR based on NIS from 2010 to 2019. Available data include demographic data, diagnostic and procedure codes, total charges, length of stay (LOS), hospital information, insurance information, and discharges.
RESULTS
From the NIS database, a total of 112,735 THAR patients in total were extracted. After THAR surgery, there was a 2.62% overall incidence of PPCs. Patients with PPCs after THAR demonstrated increased LOS, total charges, usage of Medicare, and in-hospital mortality. The following variables have been determined as potential risk factors for PPCs: advanced age, pulmonary circulation disorders, fluid and electrolyte disorders, weight loss, congestive heart failure, metastatic cancer, other neurological disorders (encephalopathy, cerebral edema, multiple sclerosis etc.), coagulopathy, paralysis, chronic pulmonary disease, renal failure, acute heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, acute myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular disease, stroke, continuous trauma ventilation, cardiac arrest, blood transfusion, dislocation of joint, and hemorrhage.
CONCLUSIONS
Our study revealed a 2.62% incidence of PPCs, with pneumonia, ARF, and PE accounting for 1.24%, 1.31%, and 0.41%, respectively. A multitude of risk factors for PPCs were identified, underscoring the importance of preoperative optimization to mitigate PPCs and enhance postoperative outcomes.
Topics: Humans; Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip; Risk Factors; Postoperative Complications; Male; Female; Retrospective Studies; Incidence; Aged; Middle Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; Databases, Factual; Pulmonary Embolism; Reoperation; Length of Stay; Lung Diseases; United States; Pneumonia; Adult; Aged, 80 and over; Respiratory Insufficiency; Inpatients
PubMed: 38877587
DOI: 10.1186/s13018-024-04836-3 -
Heart, Lung & Circulation Jun 2024Occurrence of chronic thromboembolic disease (CTED) after 3 or 6 months of standard and effective anticoagulation is not uncommon in patients with acute pulmonary...
BACKGROUND
Occurrence of chronic thromboembolic disease (CTED) after 3 or 6 months of standard and effective anticoagulation is not uncommon in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). To date, there has been no scoring model for the prediction of CTED occurrence.
METHODS
A Prediction Rule for CTED (PRC) was established in the establishment cohort (n=1,124) and then validated in the validation cohort (n=211). Both original and simplified versions of the PRC score were provided by using different scoring and cut-offs.
RESULTS
The PRC score included 10 items: active cancer (3.641; 2.338-4.944; p<0.001), autoimmune diseases (2.218; 1.545-2.891; p=0.001), body mass index >30 kg/m (2.186; 1.573-2.799; p=0.001), chronic immobility (2.135; 1.741-2.529; p=0.001), D-dimer >2,000 ng/mL (1.618; 1.274-1.962; p=0.005), PE with deep vein thrombosis (3.199; 2.356-4.042; p<0.001), previous venous thromboembolism (VTE) history (5.268; 3.472-7.064; p<0.001), thromboembolism besides VTE (4.954; 3.150-6.758; p<0.001), thrombophilia (3.438; 2.573-4.303; p<0.001), and unprovoked VTE (2.227; 1.471-2.983; p=0.001). In the establishment cohort, the sensitivity, specificity, Youden index (YI), and C-index were 85.5%, 79.7%, 0.652, and 0.821 (0.732-0.909) when using the original PRC score, whereas they were 87.9%, 74.6%, 0.625, and 0.807 (0.718-0.897) when using the simplified one, respectively (Kappa coefficient 0.819, p-value of McNemar's test 0.786). In the validation cohort, the sensitivity, specificity, YI, and C-index were 86.3%, 76.3%, 0.626, and 0.815 (0.707-0.923) when using the original PRC score, whereas they were 85.0%, 78.6%, 0.636, and 0.818 (0.725-0.911) when using the simplified one, respectively (Kappa coefficient 0.912, p-value of McNemar's test 0.937); both were better than that of the DASH score (72.5%, 69.5%, 0.420, and 0.621 [0.532-0.710]).
CONCLUSIONS
A prediction score for CTED occurrence, termed PRC, predicted the likelihood of CTED occurrence after 3 or 6 months of standard anticoagulation in hospitalised patients with a diagnosis of acute PE.
PubMed: 38876846
DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2024.03.011 -
Journal of the American Heart... Jun 2024Sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly comprising 5% to 10% of all atrial septal defects. Although surgical closure is the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly comprising 5% to 10% of all atrial septal defects. Although surgical closure is the standard treatment for SVASD, data on outcomes have been confined to small cohorts. Thus, we conducted a systematic review of the outcomes of SVASD repair.
METHODS AND RESULTS
The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes encompassed atrial fibrillation, sinus node dysfunction, pacemaker insertion, cerebrovascular accident, reoperation, residual septal defect, superior vena cava obstruction, and reimplanted pulmonary vein obstruction. Pooled incidences of outcomes were calculated using a random-effects model. Forty studies involving 1320 patients who underwent SVASD repair were included. The majority were male patients (55.4%), with 88.0% presenting with associated anomalous pulmonary venous connection. The weighted mean age was 18.6±12.5 years, and the overall weighted mean follow-up period was 8.6±10.4 years. The in-hospital mortality rate was 0.24%, with a 30-day mortality rate of 0.5% reported in 780 patients. Incidences of atrial fibrillation, sinus node dysfunction, pacemaker insertion, and cerebrovascular accident over the long-term follow-up were 3.3% (2.18%-4.93%), 6.5% (5.09%-8.2%), 2.23% (1.34%-3.57%), and 2.03% (0.89%-2.46%) respectively. Reoperation occurred in 1.36% (0.68%-2.42%) of surgeries, residual septal defect in 1.34% (0.69%-2.42%), superior vena cava obstruction in 1.76% (1.02%-2.9%), and reimplanted pulmonary vein obstruction in 1.4% (0.7%-2.49%).
CONCLUSIONS
This is the first comprehensive analysis of outcomes following surgical repair of SVASD. The findings affirm the safety and effectiveness of surgery, establishing a reference point for evaluating emerging transcatheter therapies. Safety and efficacy profiles comparable to surgical repair are essential for widespread adoption of transcatheter treatments.
Topics: Humans; Heart Septal Defects, Atrial; Treatment Outcome; Cardiac Surgical Procedures; Postoperative Complications; Male; Adolescent; Young Adult; Female; Child; Hospital Mortality; Adult
PubMed: 38874063
DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.123.033686