The Hypothenar Ulnar Artery: A Case Series of Aneurysm, Tortuosity and Thrombosis

2009 ◽  
Vol 33 (3) ◽  
pp. 138-142
Author(s):  
Melinda Bender ◽  
Susan Whitelaw ◽  
Abizer Sakarwala ◽  
Douglas Joseph

Presented is a case series of duplex ultrasound examination for evaluation of the hypothenar ulnar artery. Because of its superficial location, the distal ulnar artery is well characterized by duplex ultrasound. Aneurysm, thrombosis, and ectasia are the most common abnormal findings. The study is a single-center database query of all arterial duplex examinations performed from January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2006, and containing the words ulnar artery. A total of 2766 upper-extremity arterial duplex scans were queried yielding 155 scans meeting the search criteria. A total of 9 ulnar arteries were interrogated into the hypothenar area of the hand. Seven of them were abnormal, and 2 were follow-up studies of a patient who had undergone repair of bilateral ulnar artery aneurysms. Reported symptoms include pain, digital lesions, pallor or a pulsatile mass. Of the 7 abnormal ulnar arteries, 3 arteries were aneurysmal (diameter greater than 1.5 times the proximal segment), and 3 were ectatic (increase in diameter less than 1.5 times the proximal segment). Two arteries were tortuous, and one was occluded. All but one patient was a past or present smoker. All abnormalities were attributed to occupational repetitive trauma and one patient experienced a single traumatic event. The mean patient age was 42 years (median 37) and all were male. Of the 3 aneurysms, the largest was 17 mm and was associated with mural thrombus and a biphasic Doppler signal. The other 2 aneurysms were 5.0 and 6.9 mm with mural thrombus and triphasic Doppler signals. One patient underwent successful thrombolysis, 3 patients were followed conservatively, and 2 of the aneurysms and one of the thrombosed arteries were surgically repaired. Although abnormal findings of the distal ulnar artery are rare, they may be well visualized and characterized with duplex ultrasound. Duplex ultrasound is an ideal diagnostic modality for evaluation and follow-up of distal ulnar artery abnormalities in experienced vascular laboratories.

2020 ◽  
Vol 54 (4) ◽  
pp. 367-374
Author(s):  
Matthew T. Chrencik ◽  
Brian Caraballo ◽  
John Yokemick ◽  
Peter J. Pappas ◽  
Brajesh K. Lal ◽  
...  

Objectives: Infrapopliteal arterial pseudoaneurysms (IAP) following blunt trauma with associated orthopedic injuries are uncommon, often present in a delayed fashion, and encompass a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma. Herein, we present a series of IAPs that were diagnosed following blunt trauma and their management. Methods: Case series consisting of 3 patients and a review of the international literature. Results: Our case series included 3 patients presenting with IAPs following blunt trauma with associated orthopedic injuries. They were all identified in a delayed manner (>3 weeks) after the orthopedic injuries were treated. All patients presented with pain and a pulsatile mass while one concurrently had neurologic deficits. The pseudoaneurysms were diagnosed by duplex ultrasound and confirmed by angiography to be originating from the tibioperoneal trunk, anterior tibial, and posterior tibial arteries respectively. Two patients were treated with surgical excision. Of these, one required an arterial bypass procedure while the other underwent direct ligation only. The third patient was treated by endovascular coiling. A literature review from 1950 to the present found 51 reported cases of IAP resulting from blunt trauma. Ninety percent of trauma-related infrapopliteal injuries occurred in men with a mean delay in diagnosis of 5.6 months (median 1.8 months) after injury. Since 1950, management has shifted from primarily ligation to incorporating minimally invasive endovascular techniques when appropriate. Conclusions: Infrapopliteal artery pseudoaneurysms are rare following blunt skeletal trauma. A delay in diagnosis often occurs and can result in major morbidity and extensive surgical intervention. We recommend a high index of suspicion and a thorough vascular examination in patients with lower extremity skeletal trauma to help identify and treat these injuries early and effectively.


VASA ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 46 (2) ◽  
pp. 108-115 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christian Alexander Schaefer ◽  
Anna Katharina Blatzheim ◽  
Sebastian Gorgonius Passon ◽  
Kristin Solveig Pausewang ◽  
Nadjib Schahab ◽  
...  

Abstract. Background: The beneficial effect of statin therapy on the progress of atherosclerotic disease has been demonstrated by numerous studies. Vascular strain imaging is an arising method to evaluate arterial stiffness. Our study examined whether an influence of statin therapy on the vessel wall could be detected by vascular strain imaging. Patients and methods: 88 patients with recently detected atherosclerosis underwent an angiological examination including ankle-brachial index (ABI), pulse wave index (PWI), central puls ewave velocity and duplex ultrasound. Captures for vascular strain analysis were taken in B-mode during ultrasound examination of the common carotid artery and evaluated using a workstation equipped with a speckle tracking based software. A statin therapy was recommended and after six months a follow-up examination took place. Meanwhile, the non-adherence of a group of patients (N = 18) lead to a possibility to observe statin effects on the vascular strain. Results: In the statin non-adherent group the ABI decreased significantly to a still non-pathological level (1.2 ± 0.2 vs. 1.0 ± 0.2; p = 0.016) whereas it stagnated in the adherent group (1.0 ± 0.2 vs. 1.0 ± 0.2; p = 0.383). The PWI did not differ in the non-adherent group (180.5 ± 71.9 vs. 164.4 ± 75.8; p = 0.436) but under statin therapy it decreased significantly (261.8 ± 238.6 vs. 196.4 ± 137.4; p = 0.016). In comparison to the adherent group (4.2 ± 2.0 vs. 4.0 ± 1.8; p = 0.548) under statin therapy the radial strain decreased significantly in the non-adherent group (4.7 ± 2.0 vs. 3.3 ± 1.1; p = 0.014). Conclusions: Our findings reveal a beneficial influence of statin therapy on the arterial wall detected by vascular strain analysis.


Phlebologie ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 39 (02) ◽  
pp. 69-71 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. M. Proebstle ◽  

Summary Background: Radiofrequency powered segmental thermal ablation Closure FAST has become a globally engaged technology for ablation of incompetent great saphenous veins (GSVs). Mid-term results of slowly resolving side effects are still not described. Methods: RSTA-treated GSVs (n = 295) were followed for 24 months in a prospective multicenter trial. Clinical control visits included flow and reflux analysis by duplex-ultrasound and assessment of treatment related side effects at all times. Results: 280 of 295 treated GSVs (94.9%) were available for 24 months follow-up. According to the method of Kaplan and Meier at 24 months after the intervention 98.6% of treated legs remained free of clinically relevant axial reflux. The average VCSS score improved from 3.9 ± 2.1 at screening to 0.7 ± 1.2 at 24 months follow-up (p < 0.0001). While only 41.1% of patients were free of pain before treatment, at 24 months 99.3% reported no pain and 96.4% did not experience pain during the 12 months before. At 24 months n=3 legs showed pigmentation along the inner thigh and one leg showed study-treatment related paresthesia. Conclusion: Radiofrequency powered segmental thermal ablation Closure FAST showed a very moderate side-effect profile in conjunction with a high and durable clinical success rate.


Author(s):  
Jae Ik Lee ◽  
Mohd Shahrul Azuan Jaffar ◽  
Han Gyeol Choi ◽  
Tae Woo Kim ◽  
Yong Seuk Lee

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of isolated medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, regardless of the presence of predisposing factors. A total of 21 knees that underwent isolated MPFL reconstruction from March 2014 to August 2017 were included in this retrospective series. Radiographs of the series of the knee at flexion angles of 20, 40, and 60 degrees were acquired. The patellar position was evaluated using the patellar tilt angle, sulcus angle, congruence angle (CA), and Caton-Deschamps and Blackburne-Peel ratios. To evaluate the clinical outcome, the preoperative and postoperative International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Lysholm knee scoring scales were analyzed. To evaluate the postoperative outcomes based on the predisposing factors, the results were separately analyzed for each group. Regarding radiologic outcomes, 20-degree CA was significantly reduced from 10.37 ± 5.96° preoperatively to −0.94 ± 4.11° postoperatively (p = 0.001). In addition, regardless of the predisposing factors, delta values of pre- and postoperation of 20-degree CA were not significantly different in both groups. The IKDC score improved from 53.71 (range: 18–74) preoperatively to 94.71 (range: 86–100) at the last follow-up (p = 0.004), and the Lysholm score improved from 54.28 (range: 10–81) preoperatively to 94.14 (range: 86–100) at the last follow-up (p = 0.010). Isolated MPFL reconstruction provides a safe and effective treatment for patellofemoral instability, even in the presence of mild predisposing factors, such as trochlear dysplasia, increased patella height, increased TT–TG distance, or valgus alignment. This is a Level 4, case series study.


2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Angelousi ◽  
Eva Kassi ◽  
Melpomeni Peppa ◽  
Alexandra Chrysoulidou ◽  
George Zografos ◽  
...  

2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (5) ◽  
pp. 549-557
Author(s):  
Malia McAvoy ◽  
Heather J. McCrea ◽  
Vamsidhar Chavakula ◽  
Hoon Choi ◽  
Wenya Linda Bi ◽  
...  

OBJECTIVEFew studies describe long-term functional outcomes of pediatric patients who have undergone lumbar microdiscectomy (LMD) because of the rarity of pediatric disc herniation and the short follow-up periods. The authors analyzed risk factors, clinical presentation, complications, and functional outcomes of a single-institution series of LMD patients over a 19-year period.METHODSA retrospective case series was conducted of pediatric LMD patients at a large pediatric academic hospital from 1998 to 2017. The authors examined premorbid risk factors, clinical presentation, physical examination findings, type and duration of conservative management, indications for surgical intervention, complications, and postoperative outcomes.RESULTSOver the 19-year study period, 199 patients underwent LMD at the authors’ institution. The mean age at presentation was 16.0 years (range 12–18 years), and 55.8% were female. Of these patients, 70.9% participated in competitive sports, and among those who did not play sports, 65.0% had a body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2. Prior to surgery, conservative management had failed in 98.0% of the patients. Only 3 patients (1.5%) presented with cauda equina syndrome requiring emergent microdiscectomy. Complications included 4 cases of postoperative CSF leak (2.0%), 1 case of a noted intraoperative CSF leak, and 3 cases of wound infection (1.5%). At the first postoperative follow-up appointment, minimal or no pain was reported by 93.3% of patients. The mean time to return to sports was 9.8 weeks. During a mean follow-up duration of 8.2 years, 72.9% of patients did not present again after routine postoperative appointments. The total risk of reoperation was a rate of 7.5% (3.5% of patients underwent reoperation for the same level; 4.5% underwent adjacent-level decompression, and one patient [0.5%] ultimately underwent a fusion).CONCLUSIONSMicrodiscectomy is a safe and effective treatment for long-term relief of pain and return to daily activities among pediatric patients with symptomatic lumbar disc disease in whom conservative management has failed.


2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (5) ◽  
pp. 558-571 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kartik Bhatia ◽  
Hans Kortman ◽  
Christopher Blair ◽  
Geoffrey Parker ◽  
David Brunacci ◽  
...  

OBJECTIVEThe role of mechanical thrombectomy in pediatric acute ischemic stroke is uncertain, despite extensive evidence of benefit in adults. The existing literature consists of several recent small single-arm cohort studies, as well as multiple prior small case series and case reports. Published reports of pediatric cases have increased markedly since 2015, after the publication of the positive trials in adults. The recent AHA/ASA Scientific Statement on this issue was informed predominantly by pre-2015 case reports and identified several knowledge gaps, including how young a child may undergo thrombectomy. A repeat systematic review and meta-analysis is warranted to help guide therapeutic decisions and address gaps in knowledge.METHODSUsing PRISMA-IPD guidelines, the authors performed a systematic review of the literature from 1999 to April 2019 and individual patient data meta-analysis, with 2 independent reviewers. An additional series of 3 cases in adolescent males from one of the authors’ centers was also included. The primary outcomes were the rate of good long-term (mRS score 0–2 at final follow-up) and short-term (reduction in NIHSS score by ≥ 8 points or NIHSS score 0–1 at up to 24 hours post-thrombectomy) neurological outcomes following mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke in patients < 18 years of age. The secondary outcome was the rate of successful angiographic recanalization (mTICI score 2b/3).RESULTSThe authors’ review yielded 113 cases of mechanical thrombectomy in 110 pediatric patients. Although complete follow-up data are not available for all patients, 87 of 96 (90.6%) had good long-term neurological outcomes (mRS score 0–2), 55 of 79 (69.6%) had good short-term neurological outcomes, and 86 of 98 (87.8%) had successful angiographic recanalization (mTICI score 2b/3). Death occurred in 2 patients and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in 1 patient. Sixteen published thrombectomy cases were identified in children < 5 years of age.CONCLUSIONSMechanical thrombectomy may be considered for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion (ICA terminus, M1, basilar artery) in patients aged 1–18 years (Level C evidence; Class IIb recommendation). The existing evidence base is likely affected by selection and publication bias. A prospective multinational registry is recommended as the next investigative step.


2018 ◽  
Vol 2 ◽  
pp. 247154921880777
Author(s):  
Zachary J Bloom ◽  
Cesar D Lopez, BA ◽  
Stephen P Maier ◽  
Brian B Shiu ◽  
Djuro Petkovic ◽  
...  

Introduction Lesser tuberosity osteotomy (LTO) during anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty has a 13% nonunion rate. Treatment for LTO nonunion is controversial and poorly described in the literature. The purpose of this study was to compare the surgical and nonsurgical treatment outcomes of LTO nonunion. Methods A retrospective case series of 9 consecutive patients with LTO nonunion after primary anatomic shoulder arthroplasty at 1 institution from 2010 to 2016 were studied. Outcomes measured were radiographic evaluation of LTO on axillary X-ray, clinical range of motion (ROM), subscapularis strength, and pain at the time of LTO nonunion diagnosis and after either conservative care or surgical repair of the LTO nonunion. Results LTO nonunion was treated surgically in 4 and conservatively in 5 patients with average follow-up of 30 and 22 months, respectively. There were no significant differences in age, sex, or smoking status between groups. Treatment decision was a shared model of surgeon and patient. Displaced LTO nonunion was treated surgically in 2 and conservatively in 3 patients. There were no differences in LTO union rate of 50% in the surgical versus 60% in the conservative group. Abdominal compression test was abnormal in 50% of surgical versus 40% of conservative groups. At follow-up, ROM was lower in the surgical group with 128° forward elevation (FE) and 33° external rotation (ER) compared to 148° FE and 62° ER. Only 1 patient with LTO nonunion required conversion to reverse replacement. Conclusion LTO nonunion after shoulder arthroplasty is rare. Surgical repair of LTO nonunion does not significantly improve clinical or radiographic outcomes compared to conservative care.


2021 ◽  
pp. 000348942098742
Author(s):  
Stephen R. Chorney ◽  
Joanne Stow ◽  
Luv R. Javia ◽  
Karen B. Zur ◽  
Ian N. Jacobs ◽  
...  

Objectives: Tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is a common occurrence after pediatric tracheostomy decannulation. However, the persistence of TCF after staged reconstruction of the pediatric airway is not well-described. The primary objective was to determine the rate of persistent TCF after successful decannulation in children with staged open airway reconstruction. Methods: A case series with chart review of children who underwent decannulation after double-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction between 2017 and 2019. Results: A total of 26 children were included. The most common open airway procedure was anterior and posterior costal cartilage grafting (84.6%, 22/26). Median age at decannulation was 3.4 years (IQR: 2.8-4.3) and occurred 7.0 months (IQR: 4.3-10.4) after airway reconstruction. TCF persisted in 84.6% (22/26) of children while 15.4% (4/26) of stomas closed spontaneously. All closures were identified by the one-month follow-up visit. There was no difference in age at tracheostomy ( P = .86), age at decannulation ( P = .97), duration of tracheostomy ( P = .43), or gestational age ( P = .23) between stomas that persisted or closed. Median diameter of stent used at reconstruction was larger in TCFs that persisted (7.0 mm vs 6.5 mm, P = .03). Tracheostomy tube diameter ( P = .02) and stent size ( P < .01) correlated with persistence of TCF on multivariable logistic regression analysis. There were 16 surgical closure procedures, which occurred at a median of 14.4 months (IQR: 11.4-15.4) after decannulation. Techniques included 56.3% (9/16) by primary closure, 18.8% (3/16) by secondary intention and 25% (4/16) by cartilage tracheoplasty. The overall success of closure was 93.8% (15/16) at latest follow-up. Conclusions: Persistent TCF occurs in 85% of children who are successfully decannulated after staged open airway reconstruction. Spontaneous closure could be identified by 1 month after decannulation and was more likely when smaller stents and tracheostomy tubes were utilized. Surgeons should counsel families on the frequency of TCF and the potential for additional procedures needed for closure.


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