Safe Technique (safe + technique)

Distribution by Scientific Domains


Selected Abstracts


A Safe Technique of Exposing of a "Hidden" Left Anterior Descending Artery by Apostolakis et al.

JOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 6 2007
Oz M. Shapira M.D.Article first published online: 25 NOV 200
No abstract is available for this article. [source]


Immediate and Midterm Complications of Sclerotherapy: Report of a Prospective Multicenter Registry of 12,173 Sclerotherapy Sessions

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2005
FACPH, Jean-Jérôme Guex MD
Background Growing interest in sclerotherapy has emphasized the need for complete knowledge of all aspects of this method. Objective To precisely delineate the actual incidence of immediate and delayed untoward events of daily sclerotherapy. Methods A multicenter prospective registry was established in 22 phlebology clinics to report their activity and complications. Results During the study period, 12,173 sessions of sclerotherapy were carried out, 5,434 with liquid, 6,395 with foam, and 344 using both. Four thousand eighty-eight (33.9%) sessions were carried out with ultrasound guidance. Forty-nine incidents or accidents (0.4%) occurred, of which 12 were with liquid and 37 with foam. These were reported during the time of the study and an additional 1-month follow-up. Most numerous were 20 cases of visual disturbances (in 19 cases, foam or air block was used); all resolved shortly, without any after-effects. A femoral vein thrombosis was the only severe adverse event in this study. Conclusions This study demonstrates that sclerotherapy is a safe technique. FUNDING FOR RESEARCH WAS PROVIDED BY THE FRENCH SOCIETY OF PHLEBOLOGY, A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION. [source]


SEEG-guided RF Thermocoagulation of Epileptic Foci: Feasibility, Safety, and Preliminary Results

EPILEPSIA, Issue 11 2004
Marc Guénot
Summary:,Purpose:,Depth electrodes recordings may be required in some cases of epilepsy surgery to delineate the best region for cortical resection. We usually implant depth electrodes according to Talairach's stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) method. By using these permanently implanted depth electrodes, we are able to perform radiofrequency (RF)-thermolesions of the epileptic foci. We report the technical data required to perform such multiple cortical thermolesions, as well as preliminary results in terms of seizure outcome in a group of 20 patients. Methods:,Lesions were performed by using 100- to 110-mA bipolar current (50 V), applied for 10 to 50 s. Each thermocoagulation produced a 5- to 7-mm diameter cortical lesion. In total, two to 16 lesions were performed in each of the 20 patients. Lesions were placed without anesthesia. No general or neurologic complication occurred during the procedures. Two transient postprocedure side effects, consisting of paresthetic sensations in the mouth and mild apraxia of the hand, were observed. Results:,At a follow-up time of 8 to 31 months (mean, 19 months), 15% of the patients became seizure free, 40% experienced a ,80% reduction of their seizure frequency, and 45% were not significantly improved. Conclusions:,SEEG-guided RF thermolesions is a safe technique. Our preliminary results indicate that such lesions can lead to a significant reduction of seizure frequency and could be proposed as a palliative procedure if no resective surgery is possible. A randomized controlled trial is needed to determine which patients are likely to respond to SEEG-guided RF thermolesions. [source]


Review article: percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in infants and children

ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 8 2010
T. FRÖHLICH
Aliment Pharmacol Ther,31, 788,801 Summary Background, Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement is widely accepted in children needing long-term gastrostomy feeding and clinical experience has been accumulated using PEG in children for nearly three decades. Aim, To discuss the current knowledge about clinical application of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in children as well as associated complications and special aspects. Methods, We reviewed literature on PEG, primarily in children, with a focus on complications, gastro-oesophageal reflux, potential benefits and parental perceptions. In addition to reviewing scientific literature, we considered clinical experience and judgment in developing recommendations for special aspects concerning PEG in children. Results, Since its introduction in 1980, the use of PEG in paediatric patients has become widely accepted. With expanded experience, the number of medical conditions for which PEG is indicated, as well as the use of new techniques has increased. Published reports have helped improve expertise in dealing with associated complications; however, several key issues remain unresolved such as the implications of gastro-oesophageal reflux associated with PEG placement. Conclusions, Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion for enteral nutrition in children and adolescents is an efficient and safe technique, even in small children, and is associated with a tolerable complication rate. [source]


Prospective Evaluation of Laparoscopic Pancreatic Biopsies in 11 Healthy Cats

JOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2010
K.L. Cosford
Background: Definitive diagnosis of feline pancreatic disease is dependent on histologic examination of biopsies. Hypothesis: Laparoscopic punch biopsy of the pancreas does not significantly affect pancreatic health or clinical status of healthy cats, and provides an adequate biopsy sample for histopathology. Animals: Eleven healthy female domestic shorthair cats. Methods: Effects of laparoscopic pancreatic visualization alone in 5 cats compared with laparoscopic pancreatic visualization and punch biopsy in 6 cats were studied. Temperature, pulse, and respiratory rate, physical examination, and daily caloric intake were evaluated for 1 week before and 1 week after the procedure. Pain scores (simple descriptive score and dynamic interactive visual assessment score) were evaluated hourly during the 1st 6 hours postprocedure. Complete blood cell counts, serum biochemical profiles, serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity, and urine specific gravity were evaluated before the procedure and at 6, 24, and 72 hours postprocedure. One month postprocedure, during sterilization, the pancreas was reassessed visually in all cats, and microscopically in the biopsy group. Results: For all variables evaluated, there were no significant differences between biopsy and control cats. Re-evaluation of the pancreatic biopsy site 1 month later documented a normal tissue response to biopsy. The laparoscopic punch biopsy forceps provided high-quality pancreatic biopsy samples with an average size of 5 mm × 4 mm on 2-dimensional cut section. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Laparoscopic pancreatic biopsy is a useful and safe technique in healthy cats. [source]


Autologous fat grafting: A technique for stabilization of the microvascular pedicle in DIEP flap reconstruction

MICROSURGERY, Issue 7 2008
Eran D. Bar-Meir M.D.
Proper orientation of the microvascular pedicle is essential to ensure a high success rate in microvascular surgery. The inset of a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction can sometimes be problematic given the long vascular pedicle, the acute takeoff from an internal mammary anastomosis, and the positioning of the flap on top of the vascular pedicle. In the postoperative period, the flap can also shift as the patient's activity level increases. We present a technique where nonvascularized autologous fat grafts are used to stabilize and cushion the vascular pedicle. Over a 14-month period, 117 consecutive DIEP flaps were performed to the internal mammary vessels with autologous fat grafting to the microvascular pedicle. Six flaps (5.1%) were explored during the immediate postoperative period for anastomotic compromise. Only one total flap failure (0.8%) was observed during this time. We had no direct complications related to the fat grafts. The use of nonvascularized autologous fat grafts is a simple and safe technique for stabilization of a microvascular pedicle. It should be considered in DIEP flap breast reconstruction and other microvascular cases where the vascular pedicle might be compressed by adjacent structures. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008. [source]


Transfemoral Snaring and Stabilization of Pacemaker and Defibrillator Leads to Maintain Vascular Access During Lead Extraction

PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009
AVI FISCHER M.D.
Background: Lead extraction is an effective method for removing pacemaker and defibrillator leads and to obtain venous access when central veins are occluded. Objective: We report a series of patients who required lead extraction and preservation of vascular access requiring a vascular snare introduced from the femoral vein to provide traction on the lead. This technique allowed advancement of the extraction sheath beyond the level of vascular occlusion, preserving vascular access in all patients. Methods: All patients had peripheral contrast venography performed immediately prior to the procedure to identify the site(s) of venous occlusion. An extraction sheath was employed and with direct manual traction, the lead tip pulled free from the myocardial surface prior to advancement of the sheath beyond the occlusion. A transfemoral snare was used to grasp the distal portion of the lead and traction was used to immobilize the lead. Results: In all patients, transfemoral snaring of the leads was necessary to allow safe advancement of a sheath to open the occluded venous system. There were no complications in any of the patients. Conclusion: Our series demonstrates the simple and safe technique of transfemoral lead snaring to assist lead extraction and maintain vascular access in the setting of venous occlusion, when the distal lead tip pulls free of the myocardium before an extraction sheath is passed beyond the point of venous obstruction. [source]


Phenol Neurolysis for Severe Chronic Nonmalignant Pain: Is the Old also Obsolete?

PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 4 2007
Natan Weksler MD
ABSTRACT Objective., Our purpose was to reassess the effectiveness of phenol 4% in aqueous solution for neurolysis in patients with severe chronic nonmalignant pain syndromes who did not achieve adequate pain control (visual analog scale [VAS] ,3) with conventional pain treatment. Design., Forty-two patients with severe nonmalignant pain persisting for 6 months or longer were followed for more than 6 months after phenol neurolysis in this prospective observational study. All patients had previously received narcotic drugs, with or without nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents or adjuvants, without adequate pain relief. An aqueous solution of phenol 4% was used for chemical neurolysis. A fluoroscopically guided technique was used for chemical lumbar sympathectomy, medial branch destruction, and sacroiliac injections. Anatomic-landmarks technique was used for intercostal neurolysis, greater occipital nerve destruction, genitofemoral neuroablation, and paracoccygeal infiltration. Results., Good pain relief (VAS ,3) was achieved in 35 patients after neurolysis with phenol, and the mean VAS decreased from 8.74 ± 1.08 (range 7,10) before treatment to 1.93 ± 2.41 after treatment (P < 0.0001). The mean VAS for assessment of the quality of pain relief after phenol neurolysis was 8.4 ± 2.39, ranging from 0 (no relief at all) to 10 (complete relief ). No major complications were seen. Conclusion., The use of phenol 4% in aqueous solution is an effective and safe technique for neurolysis. Because of the potential risk of flaccid paralysis, this technique should be used in selected cases, far removed from motor nerves and the spinal cord. [source]


A simple, safe technique for the drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 9 2010
Sarah C. Thomasset
Abstract Background:, A number of methods are available for the drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts, including percutaneous, endoscopic and open approaches. In Leicester, we developed a combined radiological and endoscopic technique (predating the use of endoscopic/ultrasound) to allow drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts into the stomach. The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term results of this approach. Methods:, This is a retrospective study of patients undergoing combined endoscopic/ultrasound-guided percutaneous stenting between 1994 and 2007. Data were extracted from case records and our computerised radiology database. Results:, Thirty-seven combined endoscopic/ultrasound-guided procedures were undertaken. Median patient age was 52 years (range 26,84 years). Nineteen pseudocysts were secondary to acute pancreatitis and 18 were in patients with chronic pancreatitis. The diameter of pseudocysts on pre-procedure imaging ranged from 4 to 21 cm (median 11 cm). Median duration of hospital stay was 7 days (range 1,44 days) and 30-day mortality was 0%. Stents were inserted in 70.3% of patients (n= 26). Of those patients stented during the combined procedure, three developed infection of the pseudocyst, necessitating open cystgastrostomy within the first month. During a mean follow-up period of 41 months, two patients developed recurrent pseudocysts which were successfully drained with a further combined procedure (16 and 43 months). Repeat imaging in the remainder of patients failed to show any evidence of a persistent or recurrent pseudocyst beyond 2 months. Conclusion:, Combined radiological and endoscopic drainage is safe, cost-effective and highly efficient in preventing recurrent pseudocyst formation. [source]


Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is a safe and reliable technique even for complex rectal lesions

BRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 7 2008
R. J. Darwood
Background: Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive technique for the excision of rectal lesions, with lower morbidity and mortality rates than open surgery. Following advances in laparoscopic colorectal surgery and endoscopic mucosal resection, this study evaluated the safety and efficacy of TEM in the treatment of complex rectal lesions. Methods: All patients were entered into a prospective database. Complex lesions were identified as high (more than 15 cm from anorectal margin), large (maximum dimension over 8 cm), involving two or more rectal quadrants, or recurrent. Results: Seventy-one lesions (13 carcinomas and 58 tubulovillous adenomas) were identified. The median duration of operation was 60 (interquartile range (i.q.r.) 30,80) min, with an estimated median blood loss of 0 (i.q.r. 0,10) ml. Median hospital stay was 2 (i.q.r. 1,3) days. One patient developed postoperative urinary retention and one returned with rectal bleeding that did not require further surgery. Two patients developed rectal strictures after operation that were dilated successfully. There was no recurrence of benign lesions during a median follow-up of 21 (i.q.r. 6·5,35) months. Conclusion: TEM is a safe technique with low associated morbidity, even when used to excise complex rectal lesions. As such it remains the treatment of choice for rectal lesions not requiring primary radical resection. Copyright © 2008 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


Percutaneous radiofrequency thermoablation as an alternative to surgery for treatment of liver tumour recurrence after hepatectomy

BRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 6 2002
Dr D. Elias
Background: Radiofrequency (RF) current, converted into heat through ion agitation and friction, can destroy liver tumours by means of coagulation necrosis. This study assessed whether percutaneous RF ablation is a useful and safe technique for the treatment of liver tumour recurrence after hepatectomy. Methods: Forty-seven patients presenting with local recurrence after hepatectomy for malignant tumours (29 with colorectal secondaries) were treated with percutaneous RF ablation instead of repeat hepatectomy. RF thermal ablation was performed under image guidance for 12,15 min. This group represented 63 per cent of 75 patients treated with curative intent for liver recurrence in the same time interval. The other 28 patients underwent repeat hepatectomy. Results: The mean(s.d.) number of liver metastases destroyed was 1·4(0·7) (range 1,3) and their diameter was 21(8) (range 9,35) mm. Twenty-six patients presented with liver recurrence at least once but up to three times after the initial RF application. Incomplete local RF treatment was observed in six of 47 patients. Fifteen patients developed extrahepatic recurrence. The mean(s.d.) interval between RF ablation and the last follow-up visit was 14·4(10·1) (range 5·5,40) months. One death and three major complications occurred. Survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 88 and 55 per cent respectively. A retrospective study of the authors' database over two similar consecutive periods showed that RF ablation increased the percentage of curative local treatments for liver recurrence after hepatectomy from 17 to 26 per cent and decreased the proportion of repeat hepatectomies from 100 to to 39 per cent. Conclusion: Percutaneous RF treatment increases the number of patients eligible for curative treatment. It should be preferred to repeat hepatectomy when feasible and safe because it is less invasive. Repeat hepatectomy is indicated only when percutaneous RF ablation is contraindicated or fails. © 2002 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd [source]


Photodynamic treatment of a secondary vasoproliferative tumour associated with sector retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome type I

CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL OPHTHALMOLOGY, Issue 2 2007
Saatci A Osman MD
Abstract Vasoproliferative tumours may be primary or secondary and present with severe exudation leading to marked visual loss. We describe a 47-year-old man with unilateral secondary vasoproliferative tumour associated with sector retinitis pigmentosa and Usher I syndrome who was successfully treated with a single session of photodynamic treatment. Standard treatment protocol was used except that the treatment duration was doubled. A year after the treatment, the angioma-like tumour vanished and exudation was dramatically reduced. Photodynamic therapy seems to be a minimally invasive and safe technique in eyes with secondary vasoproliferative tumours. [source]


Long term follow-up of transcatheter coil embolotherapy for major colonic haemorrhage

COLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 10 2010
T. M. Ahmed
Abstract Aim, Therapeutic angiography with embolization is fast becoming the preferred treatment modality for major bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal (LGI) tract. The aim of this study was to determine the long term outcome and complications of percutaneous coil embolization (PCE) and its efficacy as definitive therapy in patients with major LGI bleeding. Methods, All patients presenting to our institution with a haemodynamically significant LGI tract bleed between 1995 and 2001 that were unresponsive to conservative measures were considered for emergency angiography and coil embolization where appropriate. The outcome of these individuals was determined by case note review and telephone interview. Results, There were 20 patients (11 females) with a mean follow-up period 72 months, mean age was 67 years. All underwent PCE following positive angiogram. The most common site of bleeding was the right colon (40%); haemostasis was successfully achieved in 16 (80%) patients. Five of the 20 patients died within 30 days of the intervention, three following PCE and two following surgery. None of the mortality following PCE was considered procedure related. On long term follow-up four patients required readmission to hospital for further LGI bleeds at 1, 2, 12 and 16 months respectively. Ischaemic complications occurred in 23%. Conclusion, Superselective embolization as the primary technique for the treatment of haemodynamically significant LGI bleeding is an effective, feasible and safe technique. Long term follow-up in our series up to 72 months has shown that it should be considered as both a primary and potentially definitive treatment for life threatening LGI bleeds. [source]