Project description:Atrial fibrillation is a challenging pathologic process. There continues to be a great need for the development of a reproducible, durable cure when medical management has failed. An effective, minimally invasive, sternal-sparing intervention without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass is a promising treatment approach. In this article, we describe a hybrid technique being refined at our center that combines a thoracoscopic epicardial surgical approach with an endocardial catheter-based procedure. We also discuss our results and review the literature describing this unique treatment approach.
Project description:BackgroundThe efficacy and safety of rigid pericardial endoscopy as the promising minimally invasive approach to the pericardial space was evaluated. Techniques for cell transplantation, epicardial pacemaker lead implantation, and epicardial ablation were developed.MethodsTwo swine and 5 canines were studied to evaluate the safety and efficacy of rigid pericardial endoscopy. After a double pericardiocentesis, a transurethral rigid endoscope was inserted into the pericardial space. The technique to obtain a clear visual field was examined, and acute complications such as hemodynamic changes and the effects on intra-pericardial pressure were evaluated. Using custom-made needles, pacemaker leads, and forceps, the applications for cell transplantation, epicardial pacemaker lead implantation, and epicardial ablation were also evaluated.ResultsThe use of air, the detention of a stiff guide wire in the pericardial space, and the stretching of the pericardium with the rigid endoscope were all useful to obtain a clear visual field. A side-lying position also aided observation of the posterior side of the heart. As a cell transplantation methodology, we developed an ultrasonography-guided needle, which allows for the safe visualization of transplantation without major complications. Pacemaker leads were safely and properly implanted, which provides a better outcome for cardiac resynchronizing therapy. Furthermore, the success of clear visualization of the pulmonary veins enabled us to perform epicardial ablation.ConclusionsRigid pericardial endoscopy holds promise as a safe method for minimally invasive cell transplantation, epicardial pacemaker lead implantation, and epicardial ablation by allowing clear visualization of the pericardial space.
Project description:Durable mechanical circulatory support (MCS) systems are established therapy option in patients with end-stage heart failure, with increasing importance during the last years due to donor organ shortage. Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are traditionally implanted through median sternotomy (MS). However, improvement in the pump designs during the last years led to evolvement of new surgical approaches that aim to reduce the invasiveness of the procedure. Numerous reports and studies have shown the viability and possible advantages of less-invasive approach compared to the sternotomy approach. The less invasive implant strategies for LVADs, while vague in definition, are characterized by minimizing surgical trauma and if possible, cardio-pulmonary bypass related complications. Usually it involves minimizing or completely avoiding sternal trauma, avoiding heart luxation while simultaneously leaving the major part of pericardium intact. There is no consensus between the centers regarding the ideal approach for LVAD implantation. Some centers, like our center, perform by default VAD implantation using less invasive approach in almost all patients and some centers use only sternotomy approach. The aim of this review article is to shed light on the currently available less invasive options of LVAD implantation, with particular focus on the centrifugal pumps, and their possible advantages compared to traditional sternotomy approach.
Project description:BackgroundA new class of subcutaneous electroencephalography has enabled ultra long-term monitoring of people with epilepsy. The objective of this paper is to describe surgeons' experiences in an early series of implantations as well as discomfort or complications experienced by the participants.MethodsWe included 38 implantation procedures from two trials on people with epilepsy and healthy adults. Questionnaires to assess surgeons' and participants' experience were analyzed as well as all recorded adverse events occurring up to 21 days post-surgery.ResultsWith training, the implantation could be performed in approximately 15 min. Overall, the implantation procedure was considered easy to perform with only 2 episodes where the implant got fixated in the introducing needle and a new implant had to be used. The explantation procedure was considered effortless. In 2 cases the silicone sheath covering the lead was damaged during the explantation, but it was possible to remove the entire implant without leaving any foreign body under the skin. Especially in the trial on healthy participants, a proportion experienced adverse events in the form of headache or implant-pain up to 21 days post-operatively. In 6 cases, adverse events contributed to the decision to explant and discontinue the study: Four of these cases involved implant pain or headache; One case involved a post-operative local infection; and in one case superficial lead placement resulted in skin perforation a few weeks after implantation.ConclusionThe implantation and explantation procedures are considered swift and easy to perform by both neurosurgeons and ENT surgeons. The implant is well tolerated by most participants. However, headache or pain around the implant can occur for up to 21 days post-operatively as anticipated with any such surgery. The expected benefits from the implant should always outweigh the potential disadvantages.
Project description:This is an unusual case of left atrioventricular groove strangulation by an abandoned epicardial pacing lead associated with mild left ventricular inflow obstruction, left atrial enlargement, and new atrial tachycardia that resolved with surgical lead removal. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).
Project description:With development of lung cancer screening programs and increased utilization of radiographic imaging there is significantly higher detection of smaller lung nodules and subsolid lesions. These nodules could be malignant and pose a diagnostic challenge. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) represent minimally invasive methods for tissue sampling. Intraoperative identification of these lesions maybe difficult, requiring marking prior to surgery. We review different techniques for the placement of markers to assist in the resection of peripheral lung lesions (PLL).
Project description:Graphical abstract Highlights • LA dissection is a rare complication of cardiac surgery seen more often in MV repair.• It can present heterogeneously, from being benign to causing hemodynamic collapse.• Perioperative TEE is valuable in identifying LA dissection and aiding in management.• TEE can show the cause of instability, such as MV inflow or PV outflow obstruction.
Project description:Epicardial catheter ablation via subxiphoid percutaneous access currently is used upon failure of endocardial catheter ablation. The safety, efficacy, and applicability of epicardial catheter ablation likely will improve with direct visualization of the pericardial space.The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of percutaneous endoscopic guidance for identification of epicardial anatomic landmarks and epicardial catheter ablation.Dual subxiphoid epicardial access and femoral venous and arterial access were obtained in six healthy swine. The endoscope and electrophysiology catheter were advanced to the pericardial space. Anatomic landmarks were identified via endoscopy and confirmed by multiview fluoroscopic assessment of proximity to endocardial catheters in the area of interest. Radiofrequency ablation of selected anatomic targets was performed under endoscopic guidance. Targeting of lesions was assessed by pathologic examination of the target and surrounding structures.Dual large-bore subxiphoid epicardial access was obtained without complications in all animals. The coronary sinus, left anterior descending coronary artery, left atrial appendage, and pulmonary veins were easily visualized in all animals. Catheter ablation of anatomic targets, including the right ventricular outflow tract, left atrial appendage, and pulmonary veins, was performed successfully under direct endoscopic observation. Endoscopic guidance of point and linear lesions near coronary vessels also was assessed. Pathology revealed successful targeting of lesions.Endoscopic guidance of percutaneous epicardial electrophysiologic procedures is feasible. Direct visualization of epicardial structures, catheters, and lesions may improve the safety and efficacy of epicardial catheter ablation and reduce staff and patient radiation exposure.