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Mean Follow-up (mean + follow-up)
Terms modified by Mean Follow-up Selected AbstractsOutcome of craniopharyngioma in children: long-term complications and quality of lifeDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2004Andrea Poretti MB BS Childhood craniopharyngiomas are histologically benign tumours arising from remnants of Rathke's pouch in the hypothalamic,pituitary region. The two common treatment approaches are primary total resection or limited resection followed by radiotherapy. To study the outcome after a primary surgical approach, we followed 25 consecutive patients (10 females, 15 males) under 16 years of age who were treated in a single institution with a management policy of radical tumour excision (mean age at diagnosis 9 years 2 months, SD 4 years 3 months; range 2 years 9 months to 15 years 11 months). Mean follow-up after primary surgery was 11 years 3 months (SD 7 years 7 months). Tumour control, and neurological, endocrine, and hypothalamic complications and their impact on health-related quality of life were assessed (medical follow-up, semi-structured interview, and questionnaires). Results of tumour control were generally good, however, local failure was observed in 6 of 25 patients, and severe late-treatment complications decreased quality of life for many long-time survivors. Endocrine deficiency occurred in 24/25, visual complications in 16/24, neurological complications in 8/24, obesity in 14/23, increased daytime sleepiness in 6/21, and significant school problems in 10/20. Patients with craniopharyngioma rated their health-related quality of life as considerably lower than healthy controls; the domains of social and emotional functioning were particularly affected. Parents'ratings were considerably lower than those of the patients. Poor functional outcome was associated with large tumours infiltrating or displacing the hypothalamus, the occurrence of hydrocephalus, and young age at diagnosis, but also with multiple operations due to tumour recurrence. Alternative treatment strategies should be considered, especially in very young patients with large tumours. [source] Pulse pressure and mortality in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients.DIABETES/METABOLISM: RESEARCH AND REVIEWS, Issue 3 2006A cohort study Abstract Hypothesis Hypertension is a well-known cardiovascular risk factor in type 2 diabetic patients. It has been suggested that pulse pressure (PP) could be an independent cardiovascular risk factor in the general population, particularly in the elderly. An association between office PP and cardiovascular mortality has been previously reported in diabetic patients, while the relationship between ambulatory measurements of PP and all-cause mortality has not been assessed so far. Aim To assess the relationship between ambulatory PP and all-cause mortality in diabetic patients with hypertension. Methods A cohort study was performed on a consecutive series of 435 diabetic outpatients. All patients underwent office blood pressure measurement (OBP) and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Mortality was assessed through queries at the Registry Offices of the city of residence for each patient. Mean follow-up was 3.8 ± 1.2 years. Results Fifty-eight patients (13.3%) died during the follow-up. Mortality was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in patients in the highest quartile and lower in patients in the lowest quartile, when compared to the intermediate quartiles, both for office and ABPM-PP. In a multivariate analysis, after adjustment for numerous variables (including current hypoglycaemic, antihypertensive statin and aspirin treatment), mortality was increased by 3.1 and 5.3% for each incremental mmHg of office PP (p < 0.05) and ABPM-PP (p < 0.001) respectively. Conclusions High PP, assessed through office measurement or ABPM, was associated with increased mortality in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients. In our sample, PP assessed with ABPM is a better predictor of mortality than office PP. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Outcome after hemispherectomy in hemiplegic adult patients with refractory epilepsy associated with early middle cerebral artery infarctsEPILEPSIA, Issue 6 2009Arthur Cukiert Summary Purpose:, To study the outcome after hemispherectomy (HP) in a homogeneous adult patient population with refractory hemispheric epilepsy. Methods:, Fourteen adult patients submitted to HP were studied. Patients had to be at least 18 years old, and have refractory epilepsy, clearly focal lateralized seizures and unilateral porencephalus consistent with early middle cerebral artery infarct on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All patients were submitted to functional hemispherectomy. We analyzed age of seizure onset, age by the time of surgery, gender, seizure type and frequency, interictal and ictal electroencephalography (EEG) findings, MRI and IQ scores preoperatively; seizure frequency, drug regimen, and IQ outcome were studied postoperatively. Results:, Mean follow-up was 64 months. All patients had frequent daily seizures preoperatively. All patients had unilateral simple partial motor seizures (SPS); 11 patients had secondarily generalized tonic,clonic (GTC) seizures and five patients had complex partial seizures (CPS), preoperatively. All patients had hemiplegia and hemianopsia. Twelve patients had unilateral EEG findings, and in two epileptic discharges were seen exclusively over the apparently normal hemisphere. Twelve patients were seizure-free after surgery and two patients had at least 90% improvement in seizure frequency. Pre- and postoperative mean general IQ was 84 and 88, respectively. Five of the twelve Engel I patients were receiving no drugs at last follow-up. There was no mortality or major morbidity. Conclusions:, Our results suggest that well-selected adult patients might also get good results after HP. Although good results were obtained in our adult series, the same procedure yielded a much more striking result if performed earlier in life. [source] TIPS versus drug therapy in preventing variceal rebleeding in advanced cirrhosis: A randomized controlled trialHEPATOLOGY, Issue 2 2002Ŕngels Escorsell Prevention of variceal rebleeding is mandatory in cirrhotic patients. We compared the efficacy, safety, and cost of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) versus pharmacologic therapy in preventing variceal rebleeding in patients with advanced cirrhosis. A total of 91 Child-Pugh class B/C cirrhotic patients surviving their first episode of variceal bleeding were randomized to receive TIPS (n = 47) or drug therapy (propranolol + isosorbide-5-mononitrate) (n = 44) to prevent variceal rebleeding. Mean follow-up was 15 months. Rebleeding occurred in 6 (13%) TIPS-treated patients versus 17 (39%) drug-treated patients (P = .007). The 2-year rebleeding probability was 13% versus 49% (P = .01). A similar number of reinterventions were required in the 2 groups; these were mainly angioplasty ± restenting in the TIPS group (90 of 98) and endoscopic therapy for rebleeding in the medical group (45 of 62) (not significant). Encephalopathy was more frequent in TIPS than in drug-treated patients (38% vs. 14%, P = .007). Child-Pugh class improved more frequently in drug-treated than in TIPS-treated patients (72% vs. 45%; P = .04). The 2-year survival probability was identical (72%). The identified cost of therapy was double for TIPS-treated patients. In summary, medical therapy was less effective than TIPS in preventing rebleeding. However, it caused less encephalopathy, identical survival, and more frequent improvement in Child-Pugh class with lower costs than TIPS in high-risk cirrhotic patients. This suggests that TIPS should not be used as a first-line treatment, but as a rescue for failures of medical/endoscopic treatments (first-option therapies). [source] Left Ventricular Aneurysmectomy: Endoventricular Circular Patch Plasty or SeptoexclusionJOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 2 2003Antonio Maria Calafiore M.D. Its indications and midterm results are evaluated and compared to those obtained with the Dor operation. Methods: From January 1998 to April 2001, 79 patients had an exclusion of scars following myocardial infarction in left anterior descending artery (LAD) territory. Fifty of them (63.3%) had the Dor operation (Group D) and 29 (36.7%) the Guilmet operation (Group G). Dor technique was used when the involvement of the septum and the free wall was roughly similar. Guilmet technique was indicated when the septum was involved at a greater extent than the free wall. Ejection fraction (EF) was lower and end-diastolic volumes were higher in Group G. Incidence of functional mitral regurgitation was similar in both groups. Results: Thirty-day mortality was 7.6% (8.0% in Group D versus 6.9% in Group G,p = ns). After a mean of21.0 ± 8.5months, five patients (6.9%) died, two in Group D and three in Group G. Causes of death were cardiac related in four and not cardiac related in one. Mean follow-up of the 68 survivors was24.3 ± 12.0months (range: 4-38 months). Fifty patients (73.5% of the survivors) improved (28 in Group D and 22 in Group G,p = 0.026), whereas in 18, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class remained unchanged or worsened. Both groups showed an increase of EF and a volumetric reduction, whereas stroke volume remained unchanged. Fewer patients had mitral regurgitation than in the preoperative period (41.3% versus 65.8%, p = 0.013) and at a lesser extent (1.7 ± 0.7versus0.7 ± 0.6, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results show that both Dor and Guilmet techniques are effective in the surgical treatment of left ventricular dyskinetic or akinetic areas related to LAD territory. Each technique has its own indications and has to be addressed to patients with different extension of septal scars.(J Card Surg 2003;18:93-100) [source] Ablation of Focally Induced Atrial Fibrillation:JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 2 2004Selective or Extensive? Introduction: Focally induced atrial fibrillation (AF) often is due to ectopic activity in the pulmonary veins (PV). Although initial approaches were aimed at ablating only the ectopic foci, more extensive ablation approaches have evolved that isolate all PVs empirically and/or create circumferential ablation lines in the left atrium (LA). These techniques last longer and may be associated with more risks. We retrospectively evaluated the outcome and risks of ablation for focally induced AF in a single-center patient population. Methods and Results: We report on 47 patients (32 men and 15 women; age 47 ± 10 years) in whom 52 ablations were performed. In 19 patients (22 sessions), ablation was directed at the site(s) of overt ectopic activity ("selective" group), whereas in 28 patients (30 sessions) without sufficient ectopy to determine the culprit PV a mean of 3.5 PVs were empirically targeted for bidirectional disconnection from the LA ("extensive" group). On a preprocedural Holter recording, the "selective" group had significantly more isolated atrial ectopy (3,276 ± 2,933 vs 620 ± 937 beats/24 hours) and runs of atrial tachycardia (330 ± 202 vs 53 ± 87 runs/24 hours) than the "extensive" group (P < 0.01 for both). Only 11% had persistent AF before ablation. Acute procedural success was 81% (elimination of all ectopy) and 83%, respectively (bidirectional and fully circumferential isolation of all targeted PVs). Procedure and fluoroscopy times were significantly shorter in the "selective" group. There were no major complications, but 7 minor complications and 2 acute PV stenoses > 50% in the 30 "extensive" procedures were observed. Mean follow-up was 8.4 ± 8.5 months (median 6.9). Kaplan-Meier analysis, excluding recurrences during only the first month ("delayed cure"), showed AF recurrence in 45% after 6 months and in 55% after 1 year. Outcome was not dependent on ablation approach ("selective" or "extensive") nor was time to first AF (22 ± 64 days and 30 ± 69 days). AF recurrence tended to be higher in patients with larger LA (P = 0.08), underlying heart disease or hypertension (P = 0.08), and those "extensive" patients in whom not all 4 PVs were targeted (P = 0.07). Conclusion: Trigger-directed ablation for focally induced AF is associated with a relatively high recurrence rate during follow-up. Apart from recurrence of the ectopic trigger, this may point to underlying structural changes in the atrial substrate not addressed by the ablation. Prospective evaluation of the risk-to-benefit profile of any technique (selective, extensive, including linear lines) is required. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 15, pp. 200-205, February 2004) [source] Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair by Interventional Cardiologists,A Community-Based ExperienceJOURNAL OF INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY, Issue 5 2010ABHIJEET BASOOR M.D. Introduction:,Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a relatively recent technology. In comparison to the conventional open surgical treatment for AAA, endovascular AAA repair (EVAR) combines a less-invasive approach with lower morbidity and mortality. There have been few studies regarding the performance of this procedure in a community-based setting. We report our experience of EVAR performed primarily by interventional cardiologists in a community hospital. Methods:,In our community hospital setting, between September 2005 and November 2007, we included all patients who underwent EVAR by interventional cardiologists, with available on-site vascular surgical support. Clinical and serial computed angiographic imaging outcomes were followed by a retrospective chart review. Data collection tools included demographic and clinical characteristics, anatomical aneurysm features, length of stay, peri- and postprocedural complications, and mortality. Results:,A total of 71 consecutive patients had EVAR attempted. The endovascular stent placement was successful in 67 (93%) patients. Thirty-day mortality in this study was 1 of 71 (1.4%). All four procedural failures and the single periprocedural mortality occurred in women. Mean follow-up was 12 months. There were a total of six mortalities and among these four were women (P , 0.001); however, multivariate analysis revealed loss of significant difference in mortality (P = 0.16). Major complications following EVAR were noted in 10 of 71 (14%) patients. Conclusion:,EVAR can be successfully performed by experienced interventional cardiologists with vascular surgical support in a community-based setting. In our experience, there is acceptable rate of complications and mortality in a carefully selected patient population. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:485,490) [source] Early Results of Balloon Dilatation of the Stenotic Bovine Jugular Vein Graft in the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract in ChildrenJOURNAL OF INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY, Issue 3 2008J. STEINBERG M.D. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early results of interventional balloon dilatation of stenotic bovine jugular vein (BJV) grafts implanted for reconstruction of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in children. Methods: From May 2001 to December 2005, 153 BJV grafts were implanted in children in our institution. An average of 16.9 (7.6,41.1) months after implantation, 17 balloon dilatations in a significant stenosis proximal (n = 1), distal anastomosis (n = 8), BJV valve (n = 3), or at multiple sites (n = 5) were performed in 15 children (male:female = 9:6) with a mean age of 3.9 (0.8,13.0) years. Balloon diameter was 75,133.3% (mean 100.3) of the original BJV size. Mean follow-up was 8.8 (2 days to 22.8 months) months. Results: In 10 interventions (58.8%) the instantaneous peak gradient was reduced below 50 mmHg. A balloon diameter ,100% of the original BJV size correlated significantly with a successful intervention. No major complications, two minor (nonobstructive floating membranes at the dilatation site and one septicemia) occurred afterward. Freedom from reintervention after 6 months was 58.2% for all, 77.8% for dilatations of the proximal anastomosis and mixed stenotic lesions, and 33.3% for the distal anastomosis. Conclusion: Balloon dilatation of stenotic BJV grafts is safe and can significantly reduce the pressure gradient in two-thirds of interventions. Balloon diameters above the original graft size should be aimed for. The most frequent stenosis of the distal anastomosis tends to renarrow early after dilatation. Nevertheless, balloon dilatation should be considered in nearly every stenotic graft to gain time until a surgical or interventional graft exchange. [source] Repair of vaginal vault prolapse and pelvic floor relaxation using polypropylene mesh,NEUROUROLOGY AND URODYNAMICS, Issue 7 2005Matthew P. Rutman Abstract Aims The sacrouterine ligament/cardinal (SULC) complex and prerectal fascia attach at the perineal body, forming a single support unit preventing levator descent. Many patients with vault prolapse have levator descent and widening of the hiatus. Existing transvaginal procedures do not address pelvic floor descent. We describe a technique utilizing polypropylene mesh to repair pelvic floor relaxation and prevent levator descent, along with restoration of the SULC complex in vaginal vault repair. Materials and Methods We prospectively evaluated 50 patients who had a transvaginal mesh vault/posterior wall reconstruction. A T-shaped soft prolene mesh is prepared fixing the two arms of the mesh and recreating the SULC complex in support of the cuff. The vertical segment of the mesh is transferred over the prerectal fascia and secured to the pelvic floor musculature. The rectocele is repaired incorporating the mesh distally preventing pelvic floor descent. Surgical outcome was determined by patient self-assessment including quality of life (QoL) measure as well as pelvic examination using POP-Q staging. Results Mean age was 67 years. Mean follow-up was 6 months (range 3,12). There were no intraoperative complications. There have been two apical (4%) recurrences. Mean QoL score postoperatively on a 0,6 scale was 0.74 (0,=,delighted, 1,=,pleased). Pelvic floor descent has been repaired on all patients. Postoperative POP-Q reveals restoration of normal anatomy. Conclusions We report a new technique that recreates the SULC complex in support of the vaginal vault with the aid of prolene mesh. It is the first transvaginal procedure described to reconstruct the pelvic floor in attempt to prevent pelvic floor descent. Neurourol. Urdynam. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Long-Term Effects of Upgrading to Biventricular Pacing: Differences with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy as Primary IndicationPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 7 2010GAETANO PAPARELLA M.D. Background: Few studies have assessed the long-term effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with advanced heart failure (HF) and previously right ventricular apical pacing (RVAP). Aims: To assess the clinical and hemodynamic impact of upgrading to biventricular pacing in patients with severe HF and permanent RVAP in comparison with patients who had CRT implantation as initial therapy. Methods and Results: Thirty-nine patients with RVAP, advanced HF (New York Heart Association [NYHA] III,IV), and severe depression of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were upgraded to biventricular pacing (group A). Mean duration of RVAP before upgrading was 41.8 ± 13.3 months. Clinical and echocardiographic results were compared to those obtained in a group of 43 patients with left bundle branch block and similar clinical characteristics undergoing "primary" CRT (group B). Mean follow-up was 35 ± 10 months in patients of group A and 38 ± 12 months in group B. NYHA class significantly improved in groups A and B. LVEF increased from 0.23 ± 0.07 to 0.36 ± 0.09 (P < 0.001) and from 0.26 ± 0.02 to 0.34 ± 0.10 (P < 0.001), respectively. Hospitalizations were reduced by 81% and 77% (P < 0.001). Similar improvements in echocardiographic signs of ventricular desynchronization were also observed. Conclusion: Patients upgraded to CRT exhibit long-term clinical and hemodynamic benefits that are similar to those observed in patients treated with CRT as initial strategy. (PACE 2010; 841,849) [source] Criteria for Pacemaker Explant in Patients Without a Precise Indication for Pacemaker ImplantationPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2002MARTINO MARTINELLI MARTINELLI, M., et al.: Criteria for Pacemaker Explant in Patients Without a Precise Indication for Pacemaker Implantation. Unnecessary pacemaker implantation may cause significant social and psychological consequences, the inconvenience of periodic office visits, and the expense of pulse generator replacement. Establishing adequate criteria for explanting pacemakers is crucial and has not yet been described. This study presents the results of a study protocol for explanting the pacemaker in patients without a clear indication for pacemaker implantation. Seventy pacemaker users without a clear reason for the implantation were included in the study conducted from August 1986 to November 1998 and were prospectively followed. The investigation consisted of clinical and neurological evaluations, echocardiogram, exercise testing, and tilt table testing. When these tests were negative, the pulse generator energy and stimulation rates were reprogrammed to the lowest values. Periodic Holter monitoring was conducted during follow-up. When asymptomatic for 1 year, patients underwent an electrophysiological evaluation of sinus and atrioventricular junction function and ventricular vulnerability. When the electrophysiological study was negative, pacemaker explantation was performed. Of the 70 patients, 35 had their pacemaker explanted; 3 were excluded due to a positive tilt table test and electrophysiological study, and 3 are waiting for pacemaker explantation. Mean follow-up after pacemaker explantation was 30.3 months, and all patients remained asymptomatic, except for one patient who died of a noncardiac cause. Critical analysis of pacemaker users without a well-established indication is justified because it may allow pacemaker explant in a significant proportion of these patients, and it may bring considerable social, economic, and psychological benefits. [source] Outcome of children with B cell lymphoma in Venezuela with the LMB-89 protocolPEDIATRIC BLOOD & CANCER, Issue 5 2004G. Acquatella MD Abstract Background We analyzed the results of the LMB-89 protocol performed in seven centers in Venezuela in 96 children having B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated from 1995 to 2002. Procedure Mean age was 7.1 years with 71 (74%) been male. Eighty-two patients (85%) had diffuse small cell lymphoma Burkitt and Burkitt-like, and 14 (15%) had diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Initial disease sites included the abdomen in 67%, peripheral nodes in 8%, and mediastinal in 4%. Treatment was directed to risk groups as described for LMB-89 protocol. Group A: seven patients (7%), group B: 80 patients (83%), and group C: nine patients (9%). Results Mean follow-up was 35,±,31 months. Complete remission (CR) occurred in 70 patients (73%); four patients (6%) had relapse during the first year and ten patients (10%) had progressive disease. Overall survival (OS) and event free survival (EFS) were 85 and 80% at 1 year, and 82 and 75% at 2 years, respectively. The EFS by therapeutic groups at 3 years was A: 100%; B: 76%, and C: 56%. Toxicity: neutropenia in 75%, thrombocytopenia in 63%, febrile neutropenia in 39%. Viral infections: hepatitis B in 20%, hepatitis C in 2%, and Herpes zoster in 3%. Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) occurred in 9% during induction phase with a high mortality of 44% (urate-oxidase was available only at the end of the study). Conclusions The high mortality rate during induction phase prohibited a better EFS. Prophylactic use of xantine-oxidase may improve future results. The high incidence of hepatitis B requires a vaccination program. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Juvenile Xanthogranuloma Associated with Neurofibromatosis 1: 14 Patients without Evidence of Hematologic MalignanciesPEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2004Stefano Cambiaghi M.D. Mean follow-up in 11 of these patients was 4.3 years (range 1,10 years). None of the children developed hematologic malignancies during this period. The onset of JXG was in the first 2 years of life in 13 of the patients. In this series, the association between JXG and six or more café au lait spots more than 5 mm in diameter was a good marker for NF1 in the first few years of life. Overall the JXG in these patients did not show any features distinguishable from those of "classical" JXG. [source] Mycophenolate mofetil without antibody induction in cadaver vs. living donor pediatric renal transplantationPEDIATRIC TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 2 2003O. Ojogho Abstract: Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is a new immunosuppressive agent that blocks de novo purine synthesis in T and B lymphocytes via a potent selective inhibition of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase. MMF has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of acute rejection in both adult and pediatric renal transplantation. The impact of MMF on routine antibody induction therapy in pediatric renal transplantation has not been defined. Remarkably, a recent North American Pediatric Transplant Cooperative Study concluded that T-cell antibody induction therapy was deleterious for patients who received MMF. Our study examines the use of MMF in an evolving immunosuppressive strategy to avoid antibody induction in both living (LD) and cadaver (CAD) donor pediatric renal transplantation. We retrospectively analyzed the records of 43 pediatric renal transplants that received MMF-based triple therapy without antibody induction therapy between November 1996 and April 2000. We compared CAD (n = 17) with LD (n = 26). The two groups were similar demographically except that CAD had significantly younger donors than LD, 26.1 ± 13.7 vs. 36.2 ± 9.2 yr (p = 0.006). All the patients received MMF at 600 mg/m2/b.i.d. (maximum dose of 2 g/d) and prednisone with cyclosporine (86%) or tacrolimus (14%). Mean follow-up was >36 months for each group. Acute rejection rate at 6 months was 11.8% (CAD) vs. 15.4% (LD) (p = 0.999) and at 1 yr was 23.5% (CAD) vs. 26.9% (LD) (p = 0.999). Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (ml/min/1.73 m2) at 6 months was 73.3 ± 15.3 (CAD) vs. 87.6 ± 24.2 (LD) (p = 0.068). Patient survival at 1, 2, and 3 yr was 100, 100, and 100% for CAD vs. 100, 96, and 96% for LD, respectively. Graft survival at 1, 2, and 3 yr was 100, 100, and 94% for CAD vs. 96, 88, and 71% for LD, respectively. Graft loss in CAD was because of chronic rejection (n = 2) while in LD it was because of non-compliance (n = 6), post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (n = 1), and sepsis (n = 1). In conclusion, MMF without antibody induction in both CAD and LD pediatric renal transplantation provides statistically similar and effective prophylaxis against acute rejection at 6 months and 1 yr post-transplant. The short-term patient and graft survival rates are excellent, however, non-compliance remains a serious challenge to long-term graft survival. Additional controlled studies are needed to define the role of MMF without antibody induction therapy in pediatric renal transplantation. [source] Fascia Augmentation of the Vocal Fold: Graft Yield in the Canine and Preliminary Clinical Experience,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 5 2001Sanford G. Duke MD Abstract Introduction Glottal insufficiency resulting from vocal fold bowing, hypomobility, or scar is frequently treated by injection augmentation. Injection augmentation with fat, collagen, gel foam, polytef, and recently, fascia lata has been previously reported. Variable graft yield and poor host-tissue tolerance have motivated the continued search for an ideal graft substance. Study Design A prospective trial of autologous fascia augmentation of the vocal cord in the human and in an animal model. Methods Autologous fascia injection augmentation (AFIA) was evaluated in 8 canines and 40 patients at our institution between 1998 and 2000. The animal study compared graft yield from AFIA with autologous fat yield. The outcome measure was graft yield calculated from histological examination of larynges 12 weeks after injection augmentation. Clinical trial outcome measures included symptom surveys, acoustical voice analyses, and subjective voice assessments. Mean follow-up was 9 months. Results In the canine larynx, the mean graft yield for AFIA was 33% (range, 5%,84%) compared with autologous lipoinjection (47%; range, 7%,96%;P = .57). Subjective improvement in vocal quality was reported by 95% of patients (38 of 40) after AFIA. Preoperative and postoperative voice analysis data were obtained from 26 patients. Subjective voice rating demonstrated a significant improvement after AFIA (P <.0001). Acoustical parameters of jitter, shimmer, noise-to-harmonic ratio, phonatory range, and degree unvoiced improved significantly (P <.05) in all patients after fascia augmentation. Conclusions Based on the animal study, we concluded that graft yields are excellent but variable for AFIA. The result is similar in variability and overall yield to autologous lipoinjection. Subjective and objective analyses of voice outcomes after AFIA are universally improved. Fascia appears to be an excellent alternative to lipoinjection in properly selected cases of glottic insufficiency. [source] Enterocutaneous fistula: a single-centre experienceANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 3 2010D. E. Gyorki Abstract Background:, Enterocutaneous fistulae (ECFs) present a difficult management problem and can cause significant morbidity. The aim of the study was to assess the outcome of these patients. Methods:, A retrospective chart review of all patients with ECF managed at a tertiary centre between 1996 and 2006 was performed. Demographic, management and outcome data including ECF closure, morbidity and mortality were recorded. Results:, A total of 33 patients (17 male) were identified with ECF (median age: 63 years, range: 27,84). The primary aetiology was Crohn's (30%), anastomotic leak (24%), iatrogenic (18%), mesh (6%), neoplasia (6%) and other (16%). Definitive surgery was undertaken in 21 (64%) at a median of 6.4 months (0.4,72 range) following presentation. Twenty percent of patients required emergency surgical intervention and 5 patients required preoperative total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Surgical management was formal resection and reanastomosis in all patients, with a mean operative time of 4.75 h (standard deviation = 1.8). The median hospital stay for the operative group was 19 days (7,85). Four patients required post-operative TPN with one patient requiring home TPN. Fistula closure rate was 97% (operative group: 21 out of 21; non-operative group: 11 out of 12). Mean follow-up was 37.3 months (0.5,217). Six (19%) operative patients developed fistula recurrence. There were two deaths at 2 and 5 months (fistula aetiology malignant colonic fistula and radiation enteritis, respectively). Conclusion:, Patients with ECF can be treated with low morbidity and low recurrence rate in a multidisciplinary setting. We believe that patients with ECF should be referred to specialist units for management. [source] Extragenital subcutaneous cellular angiofibroma,APMIS, Issue 3 2007Case report Cellular angiofibroma (CAF) is a rare distinctive mesenchymal neoplasm that occurs almost exclusively in the genital area. We report the case of a 38-year-old woman who presented with an asymptomatic subcutaneous mass, 3.5 cm in diameter, located in the left hypochondrium, which had progressively enlarged during the previous 6 months. The lesion was completely excised. No recurrence was observed 3 months after the excision. A review of the literature,and including the present report,revealed five cases (three men and two women) with location outside the urogenital tract. Mean age was 57 (range 38,78) years; mean 41 years for women and 68 years for men. Average tumor size was 9 (range 3.5,25) cm; mean 5 cm for women and 12 cm for men. Tumors were located in the superficial soft tissue of the trunk, except for one case in the retroperitoneum. Mean follow-up was 29 (range 3,102) months, and no patient developed recurrence or metastasis. Extragenital CAF, except for location, shows similar clinicopathological features to genital CAF. Simple tumorectomy appears to be adequate treatment. Morphologically, CAF is closely related to spindle cell lipoma. [source] Prosthetic femoropopliteal bypass: randomized comparison of polytetrafluoroethylene and heparin-bonded DacronBRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 4 2000C. Devine Background: Dacron was largely abandoned for femoropopliteal bypass 30 years ago as saphenous vein achieved better patencies. As patency in prosthetic above-knee (AK) femoropopliteal bypass in patients on aspirin is equivalent to that with saphenous vein, heparin-bonded Dacron (HBD) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) have been compared in a randomized trial involving ten hospitals which also included below-knee (BK) popliteal or tibioperoneal trunk bypass where the long saphenous vein was absent or inadequate. Methods: Over a 28-month recruitment period, 209 patients undergoing femoropopliteal bypass (180 AK, 29 BK) were randomized by the method of minimization to HBD (n = 106) or PTFE (n = 103). Aspirin 300 mg day,1 was started before surgery and continued unless the patient was intolerant. Results: Mean follow-up was 34 (range 19,48) months. Fifteen patients (7 per cent) died with patent grafts and three (1 per cent) infected grafts were removed. Patency (measured by Kaplan,Meier survival analysis) was 70, 63 and 55 per cent at 1, 2 and 3 years for HBD, compared with 56, 46 and 42 per cent respectively for PTFE (P = 0·0444). Patency at 3 years for AK bypass was significantly better than that for BK bypass. A total of 70 interventions were performed on 47 patients, achieving long-term patency in only three. Amputations were performed in 23 patients, six with HBD and 17 with PTFE grafts (P = 0·015, Fisher's exact test). Conclusion: In femoropopliteal bypass, primary patency was better with HBD than PTFE, and HBD was associated with a lower amputation rate. © 2000 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd [source] Uncontrolled epilepsy following discontinuation of antiepileptic drugs in seizure-free patients: a review of current clinical experienceACTA NEUROLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2005D. Schmidt Purpose,,, We reviewed the impact of planned discontinuation of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in seizure-free patients on seizure recurrence and the seizure outcome of reinstituted treatment. Methods,,, A literature review was performed yielding 14 clinical observations of seizure recurrence after discontinuation and its treatment outcome. Results,,, Seizure recurrence rate after AED discontinuation ranged between 12 and 66% (mean 34%, 95%CI: 27,43) in the 13 reviewed studies (no data in one study). Reinstitution of AEDs after recurrence was efficacious between 64,91% (mean of 14 studies, 80%, 95%CI: 75,85%) at follow-up. Mean follow-up ranged from 1,9 years. Seizure outcome of resumed treatment was not different for series in children and adolescents (84%, mean of 4 studies, 95%CI: 75,93) or in adults only (80%, mean of 9 studies, 95%CI: 74,86). Although seizure control was regained within approximately one year in half of the cases becoming seizure free, it took some patients as many as 5,12 years. In addition, in 19% (mean of 14 studies, 95%CI: 15,24%), resuming medication did not control the epilepsy as before, and chronic drug-resistant epilepsy with many seizures over as many as five years was seen in up to 23% of patients with a recurrence. Factors associated with poor treatment outcome of treating recurrences were symptomatic etiology, partial epilepsy and cognitive deficits. Conclusions,,, These serious and substantial risks weigh against discontinuation of AEDs in seizure-free patients, except perhaps for selected patients with idiopathic epilepsy syndromes of childhood or patients with rare seizures. [source] Improved survival with drug-eluting stent implantation in comparison with bare metal stent in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunctionCATHETERIZATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR INTERVENTIONS, Issue 3 2006FACC, Giuseppe Gioia MD Abstract OBJECTIVE: We examined the efficacy of drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation (Sirolimus or Paclitaxel) in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and compared the outcome with a similar group of patients undergoing bare metal stent (BMS) implantation. BACKGROUND: Patients with severe LV dysfunction are a high risk group. DES may improve the long term outcomes compared with BMS. METHODS: One hundred and ninety one patients (23% women) with severe LV dysfunction (LV ejection fraction ,35%) underwent coronary stent implantation between May 2002 and May 2005 and were available for follow-up. One hundred and twenty eight patients received DES (Sirolimus in 72 and Paclitaxel in 54) and 63 patients had BMS. Patients with acute S-T elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were excluded. The primary endpoint was cardiovascular mortality. A composite endpoint of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), and target vessel revascularization (TVR) was the secondary endpoint. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 420 ± 271 days. No differences were noted in age (69 ± 10 years vs. 70 ± 10 years, P = NS), number of vessel disease (2.3 ± 0.7 vs. 2.2 ± 0.8, P = NS), history of congestive heart failure (47% vs. 46%, P = NS), MI (60% vs. 61%, P = NS), or number of treated vessels (1.3 ± 0.5 vs. 1.3 ± 0.6, P = NS) for the DES and BMS group, respectively. Diabetes was more common among DES patients (45% vs. 25%, P = 0.01). The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was similar between the two groups (28% ± 6% vs. 26% ± 8%, P = NS for the DES and BMS, respectively). During the follow-up, there were a total of 25 deaths of which two were cancer related (2 in DES group). There were 23 cardiac deaths, 8/126 (6%) which occurred in the DES group and 15/63 (24%) in the BMS group (P = 0.05 by log-rank test). MACE rate was 10% for the DES group and 41% for the BMS group (P = 0.003). NYHA class improved in both groups (from 2.5 ± 0.8 to 1.7 ± 0.8 in DES and from 2 ± 0.8 to 1.4 ± 0.7 in the BMS, P = NS). CONCLUSION: Compared with bare-metal stents, DES implantation reduces mortality and MACE in high risk patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus with Nit-Occlud coilsCATHETERIZATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR INTERVENTIONS, Issue 4 2005Alpay Celiker MD Abstract The detachable coils have been successfully used for transcatheter occlusion of small- to moderate-sized patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). We report our experience regarding the use of the Nit-Occlud coils (NOCs) for transcatheter PDA and major aortopulmonary collateral (MAPCA) occlusion. Single NOCs were used to close PDA in 26 patients, and one small and two large MAPCAs in two patients. Mean age and weight of the patients were 7.7 ± 5.4 years and 20.6 ± 11.6 kg. Mean minimum duct diameter was 2.8 ± 0.8 mm; ampulla, 8.7 ± 2.4 mm; and PDA length, 9.3 ± 4.4 mm. Mean pulmonary artery pressure ranged from 9 to 51 mm Hg and pulmonary/systemic flow ratio from 1.1 to 5.8. Ductal shape was conical in 24 patients. Route of approach was venous in 23 and arterial in 3. Successful coil implantation was achieved in 24/26 (92.3%). Mean procedure and fluoroscopy time were 67.2 ± 22.1 and 14.9 ± 6.5 min. The three MAPCAs were also successfully occluded using NOC Medium and Flex. Postimplantation angiograms revealed no leak in 3, a trace or small leak in 17, and a medium leak in 4 patients. Mean follow-up was 7 ± 5 months. Complete occlusion was achieved in 17/24 (71%) at 24 hr, 19/24 (79%) by 1 month, 13/15 (87%) by 3 months, 14/15 (93%) by 6 months, and 10/11 (90%) by 12 months postprocedure. Hemolysis, late embolization, duct recanalization, and flow disturbances were not observed. Transcatheter occlusion of moderate-sized PDAs and MAPCAs using NOCs seems to offer a safe, simple, and controlled method in pediatric patients. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2005 © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] 4366: Treatment of choroidal neovascularization associated with choroidal nevusACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2010E PILOTTO Purpose Purpose:To evaluate safety and efficacy of different treatments of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with choroidal nevus at the posterior pole. Methods Methods: Six patients affected by choriodal nevus complicated by CNV were treated with photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (PDT; 50 J/cm2, 83 seconds) (five cases), or intravitreal anti-VEGF (bevacizumab, 1.25 mg) (one case). All patients underwent an ophthalmologic evaluation, including fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, A-and B scan ultrasonography and OCT at presentation and at each follow-up examination. CNV was extrafoveal in all PDT treated cases, and a foveal serous detachment was detectable. CNV was subfoveal in the eye treated with anti-VEGF. Results Results: Mean follow-up was 15.5 months (range: 6 , 24). Visual acuity improved in four of the PDT treated cases and in the anti-VEGF treated eye, while it remained unchanged in the remaining PDT treated lesion. In all eyes resolution of the foveal serous detachment was detectable. In all PDT treated eyes a single treatment was performed with no recurrence during follow-up. Meanwhile anti-VEGF was repeated after three months for CNV recurrence. Conclusion Conclusions: PDT and anti-VEGF seem both effective in the treatment of CNV secondary to choroidal nevus but a larger study is required to evaluate long-term efficacy and safety expecially of anti-VEGF therapy. [source] Photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathyACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 3 2010José M. Ruiz-Moreno Abstract. Purpose:, This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in treating chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods:, We describe a non-randomized, multicentre, interventional case series. A total of 82 eyes of 72 patients with chronic CSC were treated by conventional PDT. LogMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (ETDRS charts) and central foveal thickness (CFT) measured by optical coherence tomography before and after PDT, number of PDT treatments and complications were used as outcome indicators. Results:, Mean follow-up was 12 ± 10 months and mean age was 46 ± 10 years. Mean logMAR BCVA changed from 0.53 (standard deviation [SD] 0.43) before PDT to 0.38 (SD 0.41) at 3 months and 0.48 (SD 0.50) at 6 months (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.007, respectively, Student's t- test for paired data). Mean BCVA at the end of follow-up was 0.37 (SD 0.45; p < 0.0001 from baseline). Macular detachment was resolved and subretinal fluid (SRF) disappeared in all cases. Central foveal thickness decreased from 325 ,m (SD 95), to 229 ,m (SD 70) at 1 month after PDT, 206 ,m (SD 68) at 3 months, and 202 ,m (SD 76) at 6 months (all p < 0.0001, Student's t- test for paired data). No cases developed severe visual loss or complications derived from PDT. Reactive retinal pigment epithelium hypertrophy appeared in nine cases after PDT. Conclusions:, Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin may be useful in chronic CSC for improving BCVA and reducing SRF and CFT. Randomized studies with longer follow-up are needed to assess the real role of this treatment in chronic CSC. [source] Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture after deep sclerectomy: outcomesACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010Nitin Anand Abstract. Purpose:, This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture (LGP) in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) after deep sclerectomy (DS). Methods:, We reviewed the outcomes in 258 eyes of 258 consecutive patients who underwent DS or combined phacoemulsification and DS between August 2001 and December 2003. Mitomycin C was used during surgery in 192 eyes (74.4%). Results:, Mean follow-up was 40 ± 11 months after DS and 31 ± 12 months after LGP. Laser goniopuncture was performed in 173 eyes (67.0%). The mean interval between LGP and DS was 10.3 ± 8.7 months. The probability of LGP being performed was 63.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 57.3,69.4) at 36 months after surgery. At 2 years after LGP, the probability of maintaining IOP < 15 mmHg with a 20% decrease from the pre-laser IOP and no further glaucoma procedure or medication was 49.7% (95% CI 41.9,57.1). Iris covering the trabeculo-Descemet's membrane was the only factor significantly associated with the failure of LGP (hazard ratio 3.0, p < 0.001). Complications observed after LGP included peripheral anterior synechiae in 23 (13.2%), hypotony in seven (4.0%), late acute IOP rise in three (1.7%), delayed bleb leak in one and blebitis in two eyes. Argon laser iridoplasty was performed in 45 (26.0%) and needle revision in 41 (23.7%) eyes. Conclusions:, ND:YAG laser goniopuncture is an effective procedure to further lower IOP after DS. An IOP of < 15 mmHg is achieved and maintained for , 2 years in about 50% of cases after a single LGP procedure. There are potentially serious complications associated with the procedure. Regular gonioscopy is recommended following LGP to detect any occlusion of the goniopuncture by the iris. [source] Longterm follow-up of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of refractory glaucomaACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010Paolo Frezzotti Abstract. Purpose:, This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (TDLCP) in advanced refractory glaucoma. Methods:, A total of 124 eyes in 121 patients with advanced glaucoma refractory to medical treatment were treated consecutively with TDLCP. Success was defined as final intraocular pressure (IOP) of 5,21 mmHg in eyes with visual acuity (VA) of more than hand movements (HM) and relief of pain in eyes with VA of HM or less, including blind eyes. Results:, Mean patient age was 65.6 ± 17.1 years (range 14,91 years). Mean follow-up was 17 ± 14.6 months (range 3,42 months). Mean pretreatment IOP was 29.9 ± 8.4 mmHg (range 17,58 mmHg) and IOP at last follow-up was 20.8 ± 8 mmHg (range 6,45 mmHg) (p < 0.001). The number of laser applications (mean 9.2 ± 2.8, range 4,15) and maximal laser power (mean 2.01 ± 0.22 mW, range 1.3,3.0 mW) were not associated with lower postoperative IOP. Intraocular pressure of , 21 mmHg was recorded in 63.0% of eyes at the last follow-up visit. Overall, 28 (21.7%) eyes required at least one retreatment. No phthisis bulbi or persistent hypotonia developed. Conclusions:, TDLCP is an effective and safe method for the treatment of advanced refractory glaucoma, although repeated treatments are often necessary. [source] Long-term outcome of transpupillary thermotherapy as primary treatment of selected choroidal melanomaACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 7 2009Raffaele Parrozzani Abstract. Purpose:, To evaluate prospectively, on a long-term range, the clinical outcomes of transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) as primary treatment of selected choroidal melanoma. Methods:, Seventy-seven eyes of 77 patients affected by small posterior choroidal melanoma were treated with TTT as a sole treatment, using an infrared diode laser at 810 nm according to a standard procedure. Follow-up was longer than 36 months. Results:, Seventeen tumours (22%) were parapapillary (PP) and 60 tumours (78%) were non-parapapillary (NPP) in location. Mean follow-up was 55.2 ± 17.9 months in PP tumours and 44.3 ± 23.7 months in NPP tumours. Thirteen (76%) PP tumours and 55 (92%) NPP tumours regressed (P > 0.05). Nine tumours recurred: seven were retreated using Iodine-125 brachytherapy and two were enucleated (both parapapillary). Four patients (5%) developed liver metastasis and died during follow-up. Tumour thickness was found to be predictive of recurrence (odds ratio: 4.3). Complications were found in 20 eyes (26%): macular pucker in 11 (14%), macular oedema in three (4%), retinal vein occlusion in six (8%), vitreous and subretinal haemorrhage in two (3%) and neovascular glaucoma in three (4%). PP tumours had more local complications (but this was not statistically significant; P > 0.05). Complications appeared more frequently in tumours treated with more than one TTT session (P = 0.01), and time-risk to develop intraocular complications seems longer in the PP group, without reaching statistical significance (P = 0.07). Conclusion:, TTT may be a clinically effective method for conservative treatment of selected, non-parapapillary, small posterior choroidal melanoma. [source] Submacular fluid after encircling buckle surgery for inferior macula-off retinal detachment in young patientsACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 1 2009Hana Abouzeid Abstract. Purpose:, Characterization of persistent diffuse subretinal fluid using optical coherence tomography (OCT) after successful encircling buckle surgery for inferior macula-off retinal detachment in young patients. Methods:, Institutional retrospective review of six young patients (mean age 31 ± 6 years; five female, one male) with spontaneous inferior rhegmatogenous macula-off retinal detachment. All patients were treated with encircling buckle surgery and five out of six underwent additional external drainage of subretinal fluid. Mean follow-up was 37 ± 25 months (range 17,75 months) and included complete ophthalmic and OCT examination. Results:, At 6 months, 100% of patients showed persistence of subretinal fluid on OCT. Four patients had diffuse fluid accumulation, whereas two patients showed a ,bleb-like' accumulation of fluid. This fluid was present independent of whether or not patients had been treated with external fluid drainage. Subretinal fluid only started to disappear on OCT between 6 and more than 12 months after surgery. Conclusion:, Young patients with inferior macula-off retinal detachments and a marginally liquefied vitreous may show persisting postoperative subclinical fluid under the macula for longer periods of time than described previously. [source] Trabeculectomy and Mitomycin C (Trab-MMC) for uveitic glaucoma: post surgical interventionsACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2007A LOCKWOOD Purpose: To examine the outcome of patients at who underwent trabeculectomy and MMC for refractory uveitic glaucoma and determine the post operative interventions required Methods: The Birmingham ReGAE (Research into Glaucoma and Ethinicity) Project is an open, prospective, consecutive series of patients who had undergone trabeculectomy with MMC. The surgery was performed by a single surgical team at the Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre Results: Twenty eyes of 25 patients with uveitic glaucoma underwent Trab-MMC for uncontrolled IOP despite maximally tolerated medical treatment. Mean follow-up was 650 days. Mean pre-op IOP was 26.7 mmHg and post-op was 11.5 mmHg. 92 % of trabeculectomies reached complete success (IOP , 21 mmHg without medication). Subconjunctival injections of 5-fluorouracil were performed on 10 eyes (36 %). Bleb needling revision was performed on 5 eyes (18 %).Visual loss > 2 lines occurred in 1 case (3.8%) due to delayed hypotony maculopathy Conclusions: Trabeculectomy and Mitomycin C is effective in this complex series of patients but do require considerable post surgery manipulation [source] Graves' disease in children and adolescents: Response to long-term treatmentACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 11 2005RAQUEL BARRIO Abstract Background: Optimal treatment of Graves' disease in paediatric patients is still a matter of controversy. Antithyroid drugs, radioiodine and thyroidectomy are the three therapeutic options available. Aim: To report our experience of long-term medical treatment and outcome of paediatric Graves' disease. Methods: A 5-y-long medical protocol was implemented in 20 children and adolescents with Graves' disease. All patients received antithyroid drugs as the first therapeutic option; patients who did not enter long-term remission received I131 and/or surgery as the definitive treatment. Results: The mean age at diagnosis was 12.1±4 y. Only two patients were males, both presenting concomitant type 1 diabetes. Mean follow-up was 13.8 ± 5.5 y. Forty per cent of patients achieved long-term remission with low antithyroid drugs doses (mean treatment time: 5.4± 1.4 y). Six patients received I131 as definitive treatment and another six underwent surgery after completing medical treatment for 6.8 ± 4.1 and 5.1 ± 2 y, respectively. No patients requiring high antithyroid drugs doses to maintain euthy-roidism reached long-term remission and needed I131 and/or surgery. Conclusion: Implementation of a long-term antithyroid drug protocol achieved 40% long-term remissions in paediatric patients with Graves' disease. Need for maintained high doses of antithyroid drugs could be considered a predictive factor for no remission. When permanent remission was not obtained by medical treatment, I131 and/or surgery allowed healing in all cases. [source] Long-term remission rates after pituitary surgery for Cushing's disease: the need for long-term surveillanceCLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 5 2005A. Brew Atkinson Summary Objective, There have been a few reports on long-term remission rates after apparent early remission following pituitary surgery in the management of Cushing's disease. An undetectable postoperative serum cortisol has been regarded as the result most likely to predict long-term remission. Our objective was to assess the relapse rates in patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery in order to determine whether undetectable cortisol following surgery was predictive of long-term remission and whether it was possible to have long-term remission when early morning cortisol was measurable but not grossly elevated. Endocrinological factors associated with late relapse were also studied. Patients, We reviewed the long-term outcome in 63 patients who had pituitary surgery for the treatment of Cushing's disease between 1979 and 2000. Measurements, Case notes were reviewed and the current clinical and biochemical status assessed. Our usual practice was that early after the operation, an 08:00 h serum cortisol was measured 24 h after the last dose of hydrocortisone. This was followed by a formal low-dose dexamethasone suppression test. Current clinical status and recent 24-h urinary free cortisol values were used as an index of activity of the Cushing's disease. If there was evidence suggesting relapse, a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test was performed. In many patients, sequential collections of early morning urine specimens for urinary cortisol to creatinine ratio were also performed in an attempt to diagnose cyclical and intermittent forms of recurrent hypercortisolism. We did this if there was conflicting endocrine data, or if patients were slow to lose abnormal clinical features. Results, Mean age at diagnosis was 40·3 years (range 14,70 years). Mean follow-up up time was 9·6 years (range 1,21 years). Forty-five patients (9 males/36 females) achieved apparent remission immediately after surgery and were subsequently studied long term. Of these 45 patients, four have subsequently died while in remission from hypercortisolism. Ten of the remaining 41 patients have relapsed. Of those 10, six demonstrated definite cyclical cortisol secretion. Two of the 10 had undetectable basal serum cortisol levels in the immediate postoperative period. Thirty-one patients are still alive and in remission. Fourteen (45%) of the 31 who remained in remission had detectable serum cortisol levels (> 50 nmol/l) immediately postoperatively, and remain in remission after a mean of 8·8 years. Our relapse rate was therefore 10/45 (22%), after a mean follow-up time of 9·6 years, with mean time to relapse 5·3 years. Conclusions, The overall remission rate of 56% (35/63) at 9·6 years follow-up is disappointing and merits some re-appraisal of the widely accepted principle that pituitary surgery must be the initial treatment of choice in pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome. Following pituitary surgery, careful ongoing expert endocrine assessment is mandatory as the incidence of relapse increases with time and also with increasing rigour of the endocrine evaluation. A significant number of our patients were shown to have relapsed with a cyclical form of hypercortisolism. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||