Ceresoli M, et al. J Gynecol Oncol. 2018 Jan;29(3):e53. https://doi.org/10.3802/jgo.2018.29.e53

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unparalleled changes to patient care, including the suspension of cancer surgery. Concerns regarding COVID-19-related risks to patients and healthcare workers with the re-introduction of major complex minimally invasive and open surgery have been raised. This study examines the COVID-19 related risks to patients and healthcare workers following the re-introduction of major oesophago-gastric (EG) surgery. Patients and Methods: This was an international, multi-centre, observational study of consecutive patients treated by open and minimally invasive oesophagectomy and gastrectomy for malignant or benign disease. Patients were recruited from nine European centres serving regions with a high population incidence of COVID-19 between 1 May and 1 July 2020. The primary endpoint was 30-day COVID-19-related mortality. All staff involved in the operative care of patients were invited to complete a health-related survey to assess the incidence of COVID-19 in this group. Results: In total, 158 patients were included in the study (71 oesophagectomy, 82 gastrectomy). Overall, 87 patients (57%) underwent MIS (59 oesophagectomy, 28 gastrectomy). A total of 403 staff were eligible for inclusion, of whom 313 (78%) completed the health survey. Approaches to mitigate against the risks of COVID-19 for patients and staff varied amongst centres. No patients developed COVID-19 in the post-operative period. Two healthcare workers developed self-limiting COVID-19. Conclusions: Precautions to minimise the risk of COVID-19 infection have enabled the safe re-introduction of minimally invasive and open EG surgery for both patients and staff. Further studies are necessary to determine the minimum requirements for mitigations against COVID-19.

Endovascular recanalization has revolutionized the treatment of peripheral artery disease (PAD), offering minimally invasive alternatives to open surgery. However, permanent metallic stents, while effective in restoring blood flow, are associated with long-term complications such as chronic inflammation, restenosis, and stent thrombosis. Bioresorbable scaffolds (BRS) have emerged as an innovative solution, providing temporary mechanical support while delivering antiproliferative drugs before fully degrading, thus eliminating the risks associated with permanent implants. Significant advancements in bioresorbable materials have led to the development of new-generation scaffolds with improved radial strength, controlled degradation rates, and enhanced drug-eluting properties. Several BRS platforms, including polymer- and magnesium-based designs, are undergoing clinical and preclinical evaluation for peripheral applications. Early trials suggest that BRS may offer comparable short-term patency rates to conventional stents while potentially reducing late adverse events. However, challenges such as scaffold thrombosis, mechanical integrity in large and calcified vessels, and long-term efficacy remain under investigation. This narrative review explores the evolution of BRS technology, the mechanisms of scaffold resorption, current clinical evidence, and future prospects for their use in peripheral endovascular interventions. As research progresses, BRS may represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of PAD, offering a balance between structural support and vascular restoration.

We report the treatment of a patient who had presented with hemoptysis due to an aortobronchial fistula from an anastomotic pseudoaneurysm after extra-anatomic bypass for aortic coarctation. An aortobronchial fistula can often result from an aortic pseudoaneurysm and is associated with high mortality if not treated. We decided to use combined endovascular and open surgical treatment and obtained a satisfactory intraoperative result. The perioperative outcome and first follow-up visit were favorable. In recent years, endovascular repair of pathologic aortic conditions has increased; thus, we have placed the present case within the context of the relevant medical literature.