Showing papers by "Lenox Hill Hospital published in 2014"

Twelve or 30 months of dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stents.

Abstract: 0.29 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.17 to 0.48]; P<0.001) and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (4.3% vs. 5.9%; hazard ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.59 to 0.85]; P<0.001). The rate of myocardial infarction was lower with thienopyridine treatment than with placebo (2.1% vs. 4.1%; hazard ratio, 0.47; P<0.001). The rate of death from any cause was 2.0% in the group that continued thienopyridine therapy and 1.5% in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 1.36 [95% CI, 1.00 to 1.85]; P = 0.05). The rate of moderate or severe bleeding was increased with continued thienopyridine treatment (2.5% vs. 1.6%, P = 0.001). An elevated risk of stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction was observed in both groups during the 3 months after discontinuation of thienopyridine treatment. Conclusions Dual antiplatelet therapy beyond 1 year after placement of a drug-eluting stent, as compared with aspirin therapy alone, significantly reduced the risks of stent thrombosis and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events but was associated with an increased risk of bleeding. (Funded by a consortium of eight device and drug manufacturers and others; DAPT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00977938.)

The Appropriate Use of Neurostimulation of the Spinal Cord and Peripheral Nervous System for the Treatment of Chronic Pain and Ischemic Diseases: The Neuromodulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee

Abstract: Introduction: The Neuromodulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee (NACC) of the International Neuromodulation Society (INS) evaluated evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of neurostimulation to treat chronic pain, chronic critical limb ischemia, and refractory angina and recommended appropriate clinical applications. Methods: The NACC used literature reviews, expert opinion, clinical experience, and individual research. Authors consulted the Practice Parameters for the Use of Spinal Cord Stimulation in the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain (2006), systematic reviews (1984 to 2013), and prospective and randomized controlled trials (2005 to 2013) identified through PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Results: Neurostimulation is relatively safe because of its minimally invasive and reversible characteristics. Comparison with medical management is difficult, as patients considered for neurostimulation have failed conservative management. Unlike alternative therapies, neurostimulation is not associated with medication-related side effects and has enduring effect. Device-related complications are not uncommon; however, the incidence is becoming less frequent as technology progresses and surgical skills improve. Randomized controlled studies support the efficacy of spinal cord stimulation in treating failed back surgery syndrome and complex regional pain syndrome. Similar studies of neurostimulation for peripheral neuropathic pain, postamputation pain, postherpetic neuralgia, and other causes of nerve injury are needed. International guidelines recommend spinal cord stimulation to treat refractory angina; other indications, such as congestive heart failure, are being investigated. Conclusions: Appropriate neurostimulation is safe and effective in some chronic pain conditions. Technological refinements and clinical evidence will continue to expand its use. The NACC seeks to facilitate the efficacy and safety of neurostimulation.

Outcomes of Temporary Interruption of Rivaroxaban Compared With Warfarin in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation Results From the Rivaroxaban Once Daily, Oral, Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared With Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF)

Abstract: Background During long-term anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation, temporary interruptions (TIs) of therapy are common, but the relationship between patient outcomes and TIs has not been well studied. We sought to determine reasons for TI, the characteristics of patients undergoing TI, and the relationship between anticoagulant and outcomes among patients with TI. Methods and results In the Rivaroxaban Once Daily, Oral, Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared With Vitamin K Antagonism for Prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF), a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy study of rivaroxaban and warfarin in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, baseline characteristics, management, and outcomes, including stroke, non-central nervous system systemic embolism, death, myocardial infarction, and bleeding, were reported in participants who experienced TI (3-30 days) for any reason. The at-risk period for outcomes associated with TI was from TI start to 30 days after resumption of study drug. In 14 236 participants who received at least 1 dose of study drug, 4692 (33%) experienced TI. Participants with TI were similar to the overall ROCKET AF population in regard to baseline clinical characteristics. Only 6% (n=483) of TI incidences involved bridging therapy. Stroke/systemic embolism rates during the at-risk period were similar in rivaroxaban-treated and warfarin-treated participants (0.30% versus 0.41% per 30 days; hazard ratio [confidence interval]=0.74 [0.36-1.50]; P=0.40). Risk of major bleeding during the at-risk period was also similar in rivaroxaban-treated and warfarin-treated participants (0.99% versus 0.79% per 30 days; hazard ratio [confidence interval]=1.26 [0.80-2.00]; P=0.32). Conclusions TI of oral anticoagulation is common and is associated with substantial stroke risks and bleeding risks that were similar among patients treated with rivaroxaban or warfarin. Further investigation is needed to determine the optimal management strategy in patients with atrial fibrillation requiring TI of anticoagulation. Clinical trial registration url http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00403767.

Does the Direct Anterior Approach in THA Offer Faster Rehabilitation and Comparable Safety to the Posterior Approach

Abstract: Background Newer surgical approaches to THA, such as the direct anterior approach, may influence a patient’s time to recovery, but it is important to make sure that these approaches do not compromise reconstructive safety or accuracy.

National Assessment of Warfarin Anticoagulation Therapy for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract: Background—Anticoagulation control with warfarin, as assessed by the international normalized ratio (INR), is challenging. Time in the therapeutic range has been inversely correlated with major hemorrhage, thrombosis, and mortality. Quest Diagnostics offers standardized INR laboratory testing services to approximately half of US physician practices. To inform national stroke prevention strategies, we evaluated anticoagulation control in office-based community practices. Methods and Results—We selected individuals with ≥2 months of INR data, INR results of >1.2, and an ICD-9 diagnosis code of atrial fibrillation. Frequency of INR testing and time in the therapeutic range were analyzed by age, sex, length of testing period, number of referred patients per provider, and median household income (based on home ZIP code). We identified 138 319 individuals referred by 37 939 physicians, yielding a total of 2 683 674 INR results. Patients had a mean age of 74 years; 81% were ≥65 years of age, and 55% were ≥75 yea...

Long-Term Outcomes of Inoperable Patients With Aortic Stenosis Randomly Assigned to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement or Standard Therapy

Abstract: Background—The long-term outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in inoperable patients with severe aortic stenosis remain unknown. Methods and Results—In the Placement of Aortic ...

What Do We Know About Taper Corrosion in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Abstract: Mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC) at metal/metal modular junctions in which at least one of the components is fabricated from cobalt-chromium alloy, has reemerged as a potential clinically significant complication in total hip arthroplasty. The clinical manifestation of MACC may include the development of an adverse local tissue reaction (ALTR), similar to what has been described in association with metal-on-metal bearing total hip and resurfacing arthroplasty. The clinical presentation of MACC-associated ALTRs may include pain and possibly late recurrent dislocations. Abnormal metal artifact reduction sequence magnetic resonance images and elevated serum metal levels (cobalt elevations out of proportion to chromium elevations) can be helpful in the diagnosis of these MACC-associated ALTRs.

Modern Trunnions Are More Flexible: A Mechanical Analysis of THA Taper Designs

Abstract: Background There is renewed concern surrounding the potential for corrosion at the modular head-neck junction to cause early failure in contemporary THAs. Although taper corrosion involves a complex interplay of many factors, a previous study suggested that a decrease in flexural rigidity of the femoral trunnion may be associated with an increased likelihood of corrosion at retrieval.

Large diameter femoral heads: is bigger always better?

Abstract: Dislocation remains among the most common complications of, and reasons for, revision of both primary and revision total hip replacements (THR). Hence, there is great interest in maximising stability to prevent this complication. Head size has been recognised to have a strong influence on the risk of dislocation post-operatively. As femoral head size increases, stability is augmented, secondary to an increase in impingement-free range of movement. Larger head sizes also greatly increase the ‘jump distance’ required for the head to dislocate in an appropriately positioned cup. Level-one studies support the use of larger diameter heads as they decrease the risk of dislocation following primary and revision THR. Highly cross-linked polyethylene has allowed us to increase femoral head size, without a marked increase in wear. However, the thin polyethylene liners necessary to accommodate larger heads may increase the risk of liner fracture and larger heads have also been implicated in causing soft-tissue impingement resulting in groin pain. Larger diameter heads also impart larger forces on the femoral trunnion, which may contribute to corrosion, metal release, and adverse local tissue reactions. Alternative large bearings including large ceramic heads and dual mobility bearings may mitigate some of these risks, and several of these devices have been used with clinical success. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B(11 Suppl A):23–6.

Direct oral anticoagulants: new drugs and new concepts.

Abstract: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are approved for multiple thromboembolic disorders and provide advantages over existing agents. As with all anticoagulants, management protocols for the eventuality of bleeding are important. Randomized phase III studies generally show that DOACs have a similar risk of clinically relevant bleeding compared with standard anticoagulants, with reductions in major bleeding in some cases. This may be particularly important in patients with atrial fibrillation, for whom the rate of intracranial hemorrhage was approximately halved with DOACs compared with warfarin. Conversely, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding may be increased. Specific patient characteristics, such as renal impairment, comedications, and particular aspects of each drug, including the proportion eliminated by the kidneys, must be taken into account when assessing the risk of bleeding. Although routine coagulation monitoring of DOACs is not required, it may be useful under some circumstances. Of the traditional clotting assays, a sensitive and calibrated prothrombin time may be useful for detecting the presence or absence of clinically relevant factor Xa inhibitor concentrations (rivaroxaban or apixaban), but specific anti-factor Xa assays can measure drug levels quantitatively. For dabigatran, the results of an activated partial thromboplastin time test may exclude a clinically relevant pharmacodynamic effect, but a calibrated dilute thrombin time assay can be used for quantification of drug levels. In the event of mild or moderate bleeding, normal hemostatic support measures are recommended. For life-threatening bleeding, use of nonspecific prohemostatic agents may be considered, although clinical evidence is scarce. Specific antidotes are in development.

Toll-like receptors and liver disease.

Abstract: Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern recognition receptors that play an important role in host defence by recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP). Recent studies indicate that TLR signalling plays an important role in progression of chronic liver diseases. Ongoing clinical trials suggest that therapeutic manipulation of TLR pathways may offer novel means of reversing chronic liver diseases. Upon activation by their respective ligands, TLRs initiate an intracellular pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory signalling cascade via recruitment of various adaptor proteins. TLR associated signalling pathways are tightly regulated to keep a check on inappropriate production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and interferons thereby preventing various autoimmune and inflammatory processes. Herein, we review the current state of knowledge of hepatic distribution, signalling pathways and therapeutic modulation of TLRs in chronic liver diseases.

Differences in Surgical Outcomes Between Hepatitis B- and Hepatitis C–Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis of a Single North American Center

Abstract: Objective:Compare surgical outcomes for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) versus hepatitis C virus (HCV)-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Background:HCC is the second leading cause of death from cancer worldwide and is associated with hepatitis virus infection in 80% of cases.Meth

Articulating Vs. Static Antibiotic Impregnated Spacers in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Sepsis. A Systematic Review

Abstract: Periprosthetic infection after total knee arthroplasty is a devastating complication, and two-stage exchange is the standard of care in North America. Articulating and static spacers have been developed to treat these infections but controversy exists over which method is superior. We performed a systematic review using MEDLINE and other literature search engines identifying 47 articles meeting inclusion criteria producing 2011 spacers for comparison. Articulating spacers had increased range of motion 100.1° vs. 82.9° (P<0.003), lower re-infection rate 7.5% (P<0.0031), facilitated re-implantation (P<0.0011), and developed less bone loss (P<.0001) than did static spacers. This study answers several clinically relevant questions and provides useful information in guiding clinical decision making in treating periprosthetic infection.

Similar improvement in gait parameters following direct anterior & posterior approach total hip arthroplasty.

Abstract: We compared gait parameters prior to, at 6 months and 1 year following total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed via direct anterior approach (DAA) and posterior approach (PA) by a single surgeon in 22 patients. A gait analysis system involving reflective markers, infrared cameras and a multicomponent force plate was utilized. Postoperatively, the study cohort demonstrated improvement in flexion/extension range of motion (ROM) (P = 0.001), peak flexion (P = 0.005) and extension (P = 0.002) moments with no differences between groups. Internal/external ROM improved significantly in the DAA group (P = 0.04) with no change in the PA group. THA performed via DAA and PA offers similar improvement in gait parameters with the exception of internal/external ROM which might be related to the release and repair of external rotators during PA THA.

New findings in hip capsular anatomy: dimensions of capsular thickness and pericapsular contributions.

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this investigation was to provide a detailed description of the anatomy of the hip capsule and pericapsular structures. Methods Dissections were performed on 11 nonpaired, fresh-frozen cadaveric hips by 2 independent observers: 1 fellowship-trained orthopaedic total joint surgeon and 1 chief orthopaedic surgery resident. Documentation of capsular thickness, origins, insertions, and attachments to pericapsular structures including the abductors, rectus femoris, piriformis, short external rotators, and iliocapsularis muscles was performed. Tendinous insertions of the surrounding pericapsular muscles were measured according to size and distance from reproducible osseous landmarks. Results The capsule is thickest near the acetabular origin at the posterosuperior and superior hemi-quadrants and is thinnest near the femoral insertion in the posterior and posteroinferior hemi-quadrants. The iliocapsularis, indirect head of the rectus, conjoint, obturator externus, and gluteus minimus tendons all show consistent capsular contributions, whereas the piriformis does not have a capsular attachment. Osseous landmarks for tendinous attachments are defined and illustrated. The inter-relation of these structures is complex, yet their relations to the anterior hip capsule and contributions to its thickness are predictable. Conclusions The dynamic pericapsular structures pertinent to the hip arthroscopist include the iliocapsularis, gluteus minimus, and reflected head of the rectus femoris. At the acetabulum, the thickest region of the capsule is posterosuperior and superolateral. At the femoral insertion, the thickest region is anterior. Clinical Relevance Knowledge of the intricate relation between the hip capsule and pericapsular structures presented here will be useful for surgeons as they perform the precise and specific capsular releases required during hip arthroscopy. Our anatomic findings contribute important qualitative data that build on the recent literature regarding the importance of capsular management during hip arthroscopy to postoperative hip stability.

The Appropriate Use of Neurostimulation: Stimulation of the Intracranial and Extracranial Space and Head for Chronic Pain

Abstract: Introduction The International Neuromodulation Society (INS) has identified a need for evaluation and analysis of the practice of neurostimulation of the brain and extracranial nerves of the head to treat chronic pain. Methods The INS board of directors chose an expert panel, the Neuromodulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee (NACC), to evaluate the peer-reviewed literature, current research, and clinical experience and to give guidance for the appropriate use of these methods. The literature searches involved key word searches in PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar dated 1970–2013, which were graded and evaluated by the authors. Results The NACC found that evidence supports extracranial stimulation for facial pain, migraine, and scalp pain but is limited for intracranial neuromodulation. High cervical spinal cord stimulation is an evolving option for facial pain. Intracranial neurostimulation may be an excellent option to treat diseases of the nervous system, such as tremor and Parkinson's disease, and in the future, potentially Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury, but current use of intracranial stimulation for pain should be seen as investigational. Conclusions The NACC concludes that extracranial nerve stimulation should be considered in the algorithmic treatment of migraine and other disorders of the head. We should strive to perfect targets outside the cranium when treating pain, if at all possible.

Tourniquet use during cementation only during total knee arthroplasty: a randomized trial.

Abstract: Background Total knee arthroplasty with the use of a tourniquet during the entire operation has not been shown to improve the performance of the operation and may increase the risk of complications.

The role of skin trauma in the distribution of morphea lesions: A cross-sectional survey of the Morphea in Adults and Children cohort IV

Abstract: Background Skin trauma may play a role in the development of morphea lesions. The association between trauma and the distribution of cutaneous lesions has never been examined to our knowledge. Objective We sought to determine whether patients enrolled in the Morphea in Adults and Children (MAC) cohort exhibit skin lesions distributed in areas of prior (isotopic) or ongoing (isomorphic) trauma. Methods This was a cross-sectional analysis of the MAC cohort. Results Of 329 patients in the MAC cohort, 52 (16%) had trauma-associated lesions at the onset of disease. Patients with lesions in an isotopic distribution had greater clinical severity as measured by a clinical outcome measure (mean modified Rodnan Skin Score of 13.8 vs 5.3, P = .004, 95% confidence interval 3.08-13.92) and impact on life quality (mean Dermatology Life Quality Index score 8.4 vs 4.1, P = .009, 95% confidence interval 1.18-7.50) than those with an isomorphic distribution. Most frequent associated traumas were chronic friction (isomorphic) and surgery/isotopic. Limitations Recall bias for patient-reported events is a limitation. Conclusion Of patients in the MAC cohort, 16% developed initial morphea lesions at sites of skin trauma. If these findings can be confirmed in additional series, they suggest that elective procedures and excessive skin trauma or friction might be avoided in these patients.

The Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale (PULS): a multicenter video-based evaluation of inter-rater reliability

Abstract: The Post-Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale (PULS) offers a simple grading system for the description of ureteral lesions after ureteroscopy. In this article, we present the results of a video-based multicenter evaluation of the inter-rater reliability of clinically important PULS grades 0–3. Video sequences at the end of ureteroscopy (final passage) were recorded for 100 consecutive patients at a single institution and assessed by experienced urologists (n = 20) and senior residents (n = 17) at 19 international centers. The cohort included only patients with lesions grades 0–3 (with grades 2 and 3 subsumed as 2 + since distinction is defined by an extravasation of contrast medium in fluoroscopy). The gradings were evaluated for inter-rater reliability and in terms of simplicity, validity, comprehensibility, reproducibility, and usefulness. Overall, inter-rater reliability was high (Kendall’s W = 0.69, p < 0.001) and was comparable between specialists (Kendall’s W = 0.69, p < 0.001) and residents (Kendall’s W = 0.71, p < 0.001). The matched ratings showed grade 0 in 43.0 % of patients and grades 1 or 2 + in 44.0 and 13.0 % of patients, respectively. Results of the questionnaires indicated a high degree of acceptance, with an overall rating of 1.76 (1.64–1.93 for different items, scale 1–6). Inter-rater reliability of the endoscopically assessable PULS was high among urologists with different levels of experience in different countries worldwide. The validated PULS system may be used for standardized reporting of ureteral lesions/injuries after ureteroscopy. In addition, PULS will enable more selective standardization of indications for postoperative DJ stenting based on the randomized controlled trials.

Novel genetic mutations in a sporadic port-wine stain.

Abstract: IMPORTANCE Port-wine stains (PWSs) are common congenital cutaneous capillary malformations. A somatic GNAQ mutation was recently identified in patients with sporadic PWSs and Sturge-Weber syndrome. However, subsequent studies to confirm or extend this observation are lacking. OBSERVATIONS We report a long-standing, unilateral facial PWS of a man in his early 70s confirmed by histopathological analysis. Staged surgical excision of the vascular malformation was performed, and genomic DNA was extracted from the vascular malformation specimen and normal skin. Targeted next-generation sequencing of the coding sequence of 275 known cancer genes including GNAQ was performed in both specimens. A single-nucleotide variant (c.548G>A, p.Arg183Gln) in GNAQ was identified in the PWS-affected tissue but not in the normal skin sample. In addition, this sequencing approach uncovered several additional novel somatic mutations in the genes SMARCA4, EPHA3, MYB, PDGFR-β, and PIK3CA. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Our findings confirm the presence of somatic mutations in GNAQ in the affected skin of a patient with congenital PWS, as well as alterations in several other novel genes of possible importance in the pathogenesis of PWS that may also offer substantial therapeutic targets.

The usefulness of S100P, mesothelin, fascin, prostate stem cell antigen, and 14-3-3 sigma in diagnosing pancreatic adenocarcinoma in cytological specimens obtained by endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle aspiration.

Abstract: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) of the pancreas is an efficient and minimally invasive procedure for the diagnosis and staging of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Because of some limitations of EUS-FNA in diagnosis of well-differentiated or early stage cancers, the purpose of this study is to assess the added benefit of immunohistochemistry. We studied five proteins overexpressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma, namely, prostate stem cell antigen, fascin, 14-3-3 sigma, mesothelin and S100P utilizing immunohistochemistry on paraffin sections from cellblocks obtained by EUS-FNA. Sixty-two cases of EUS-FNA of the pancreas that had follow-up histological and/or clinical diagnosis and sufficient material in cell blocks were included. Using histological diagnosis and/or clinical outcome as the reference standard, EUS-FNA shows the highest sensitivity (95%) and specificity (91%) and is superior to any marker in this study. Among five antibodies, S100P reveals the best diagnostic characters showing 90% of sensitivity and 67% of specificity. Fascin shows high specificity (92%) but low sensitivity (38%). Mesothelin has a moderate sensitivity (74%) and low specificity (33%), PSCA and 14-3-3 show high sensitivity but zero specificity. S100P and mesothelin were useful in nine indeterminate cases. S100P correctly predicted six of seven cancers and one of one without cancer and mesothelin correctly diagnosed five of seven cancers and one of two noncancers in this group. EUS-FNA cytomorphology is superior to any of the immunohistochemical markers used in this study. Use of S100P and mesothelin in cytologically borderline cases can increase the diagnostic accuracy in this group.

Per-oral endoscopic myotomy white paper summary

Abstract: Achalasia is an uncommon esophageal motility disorder in which there is selective loss of inhibitory neurons resulting in loss of peristalsis and failure of adequate relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in response to food bolus. There is no current curative treatment that reverses the pathophysiology of achalasia. The treatment options are aimed at improving the passage of solids and liquids through the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). The traditional treatment options include surgical myotomy and endoscopic methods that disrupt or weaken the LES, such as endoscopic balloon dilation and botulinum toxin injection (BI). Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) represents a Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES ) approach to Heller myotomy. Preliminary data suggest that this minimally invasive endoscopic procedure may achieve clinical results similar to those of surgical myotomy. As part of the annual Natural Orifice Surgery Consortium for Assessment and Research (NOSCAR ) meeting held in Chicago in July 2012, a conference was organized to collaboratively review POEM and develop a consensus document on the current status of POEM. An International POEM Survey (IPOEMS) was designed and conducted by the session moderators as part of this NOSCAR initiative to attempt to supplement the scant published literature with current data from POEM early adopters. The survey, which has now been published in This article is being published simultaneously in both Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Surgical Endoscopy.

Internal maxillary artery-middle cerebral artery bypass: infratemporal approach for subcranial-intracranial (SC-IC) bypass.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Internal maxillary artery (IMax)–middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass has been recently described as an alternative to cervical extracranial-intracranial bypass. This technique uses a “keyhole” craniectomy in the temporal fossa that requires a technically challenging end-to-side anastomosis. OBJECTIVE: To describe a lateral subtemporal craniectomy of the middle cranial fossa floor to facilitate wide exposure of the IMax to facilitate bypass. METHODS: Orbitozygomatic osteotomy is used followed by frontotemporal craniotomy and subsequently laterotemporal fossa craniectomy, reaching its medial border at a virtual line connecting the foramen rotundum and foramen ovale. The IMax was identified by using established anatomic landmarks, neuronavigation, and micro Doppler probe (Mizuho Inc. Tokyo, Japan). Additionally, we studied the approach in a cadaveric specimen in preparation for microsurgical bypass. RESULTS: There were 4 cases in which the technique was used. One bypass was performed for flow augmentation in a hypoperfused hemisphere. The other 3 were performed as part of treatment paradigms for giant middle cerebral artery aneurysms. Vein grafts were used in all patients. The proximal anastomosis was performed in an end-toside fashion in 1 patient and end-to-end in 3 patients. Intraoperative graft flow measured with the Transonic flow probe ranged from 20 to 60 mL/min. Postoperative angiography demonstrated good filling of the graft with robust distal flow in all cases. All patients tolerated the procedure well. CONCLUSION: IMax to middle cerebral artery subcranial-intracranial bypass is safe and efficacious. The laterotemporal fossa craniectomy technique resulted in reliable identification and wide exposure of the IMax, facilitating the proximal anastomosis.

Reproducible fixation with a tapered, fluted, modular, titanium stem in revision hip arthroplasty at 8-15 years follow-up.

Abstract: The use of tapered, fluted, modular, distally fixing stems has increased in femoral revision surgery. The goal of this retrospective study was to assess mid-term to long-term outcomes of this implant. Seventy-one hips in 70 patients with a mean age of 69 years were followed for an average of 10 years. Preoperative HHS averaged 50 and improved to 87 postoperatively. Seventy-nine percent hips had Paprosky type 3A or more bone-loss. All stems osseointegrated distally (100%). Two hips subsided > 5 mm but achieved secondary stability. Sixty-eight percent hips had evidence of bony reconstitution and 21% demonstrated diaphyseal stress-shielding. One stem fractured near its modular junction and was revised with a mechanical failure rate of 1.4%. Distal fixation and clinical improvement were reproducibly achieved with this stem design.