The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2025
Appropriate sizing of the frozen elephant trunk: How to predict proximal descending aortic diameter prior to dissection?
The predissection aortic diameter is the best reference for determining the size of the frozen elephant trunk in aortic dissection. We aimed to develop a new prediction method to estimate the predissection diameter of proximal descending aorta. Furthermore, we evaluated the accuracy of the estimated predissection proximal descending aortic diameters calculated using 3 prediction methods. ⋯ These results suggest that the new prediction method can be used as a simple and accurate estimation method for the predissection aortic diameter at the proximal descending aorta.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2025
Robotic-assisted Extended Thymectomy for Large Resectable Thymoma: 21 Years' Experience.
This study aims to evaluate the perioperative and midterm oncological outcomes of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery extended thymectomy for patients with large resectable thymomas compared with small thymomas. ⋯ Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery extended thymectomy is technically feasible, safe, and effective for treating large resectable thymomas. Moreover, midterm outcomes for patients with completely resected large thymomas were comparable to those with small thymomas during a median follow-up period of up to 5 years.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Feb 2025
Utility of Structured Follow-up Imaging after Aortic Surgery.
Although postoperative follow-up after aortic surgery is recommended by guidelines, its clinical utility is not well documented. We hypothesized that structured follow-up imaging by an aortic program would improve outcomes. We then documented radiologic findings on asymptomatic postoperative imaging. ⋯ Implementation of structured follow-up imaging by an aortic program resulted in low clinical compliance. Follow-up was associated with increased rates of aortic reintervention. Clinically relevant radiologic findings were common on asymptomatic imaging and increased throughout 5-year follow-up rather than plateauing in the early postoperative period.