Measuring plaque inflammation via SCAIL scores may improve carotid stenosis risk stratification

The use of a relatively novel scoring system, referred to as Symptomatic carotid atheroma inflammation lumen-stenosis (SCAIL), has produced favourable predictive qualities versus the Oxford carotid stenosis tool (OCST) and Essen stroke risk score (ESRS). According to researchers, the SCAIL…
UK MHRA update: Paclitaxel-coated device increased mortality risk is withdrawn for PAD

Following a review, the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has updated guidance on the use of paclitaxel-coated devices stating that such devices can be considered for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), including intermittent claudication and critical…
Serration angioplasty associated with reduced recoil in infrapopliteal arteries compared with plain balloon angioplasty

A study comparing the extent of early infrapopliteal recoil after serration and plain balloon angioplasty has found the former produces “substantially less” arterial recoil in the treatment of these lesions and has demonstrated “technical feasibility” in measuring early recoil using…
SVS points to 2023 achievements, challenges in coming year

The Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) reflects on a year marked by notable achievements on multiple fronts. In a communication to members in mid-December, Executive Director, Kenneth M. Slaw, PhD, underscored the organization’s growth, collaborative endeavors and key milestones attained…
First patient enrolled in HERCULES randomized trial comparing ESAR and EVAR

The first patient has been enrolled into the HERCULES trial, which compares endosuture aneurysm repair (ESAR) to standard endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) with wide proximal necks. HERCULES is an investigator-driven trial led by Michel Reijnen, MD,…
Could metformin be first-ever medical treatment that is effective at managing aneurysm disease?

There is a global interest in assessing whether metformin, which has a long track record of safety and efficacy, is relatively inexpensive and is taken by millions of people every day for type-2 diabetes, has an effect on the progression…
How the best leaders ensure psychological safety at work

My limited understanding of psychological safety is when people feel safe expressing differing opinions, and thoughts in the workplace. Amy Edmondson, a pioneer in this area, defines it as “the belief that the environment is safe for interpersonal risk-taking.”1 Although…
First patient treated in ZFEN+ fenestrated endovascular graft study

Cook Medical has announced the first patient treated in the clinical study of the Zenith Fenestrated+ endovascular graft (ZFEN+) in the U.S. The procedure was performed on Jan. 29, 2024, at the University of Texas Health (UTHealth) in Houston, Texas, by…
Mentor Match available for all SVS members

The SVS has expanded its Mentor Match program, which is now available to all SVS members in good standing. The program aims to connect vascular surgery professionals with experienced mentors who can help them achieve goals. Mentor Match began in…
SOOVC releases handbook for outpatient care

The SVS Sub-Section on Outpatient and Office Vascular Care (SOOVC) has released the anticipated Office-Based Lab (OBL) Handbook to guide practitioners and aid with safety and cost-effectiveness, as well as expand patients’ access to care. Anil Hingorani, MD, chair of…

