Highlights. Patients with epicardial obesity develop myocardial fibrosis (the underlying mechanism of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction) the preclinical diagnosis of which is difficult to perform. In this regard, the search for non-invasive methods for diagnosing diastolic dysfunction at an early stage, including the methods of determining the serum level of biomarkers of heart failure and studying the parameters of left ventricular mechanics using speckle-tracking echocardiography, seems quite relevant.

Background. Currently, the search for serum biomarkers and non-invasive methods for diagnosing diastolic dysfunction (DD) of the left ventricle (LV) at the preclinical stage in obese patients is relevant.

Aim. To study the levels of heart failure biomarkers and their association with profibrotic factors and LV mechanics in patients depending on the presence of epicardial obesity (EO).

Methods. Out of 143 men with general obesity, depending on the severity of EO, determined by the thickness of epicardial adipose tissue (tEАT), 2 groups of patients were identified: the EO (+) group with tEАT 7 mm or more (n = 70), and the EO (–) group with tEАT less than 7 mm (n = 40). The exclusion criteria from the study were: arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and the presence of LVDD detected by echocardiography (echo). Levels of profibrotic factors (type I and type III collagen, procollagen type I C-terminal propeptide (PICP), matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), sST2, and NT-proBNP were determined in all patients using enzyme immunoassay. With the help of speckle-tracking echocardiography, the mechanics of LV were analyzed.

Results. The EO (+) group presented with increased sST2 level (22.11±7.36 ng/mL) compared to the EO (–) group (sST2 level 9.79±3.14 ng/mL (p<0.0001). In the EO (+) group, a significant influence of tEAT on sST2 level was identified (F = 8.57; p = 0.005). In the EO (+) group, an increase in the level of MMP-3, type I collagen, type III collagen, PICP, transforming growth factor-β, and VEGF-A was revealed. Moreover, in the EO (+) group, a statistically significant relationship between sST2 and type III collagen was revealed (p = 0.01). When comparing the parameters of speckle-tracking echo, the EO group (+) presented with increased LV untwisting rate of –128.31 (–142.0; –118.0) deg/s-1 (p = 0.002), and increased time to LV peak untwisting rate of – 476.44 (510.0; 411.0) msec compared with the EO group (–) (p = 0.03). Moreover, a significant association between LV untwisting rate and sST2 level was revealed in the EO (+) group (r = 0.35; p = 0.02).>˂0.0001). In the EO (+) group, a significant influence of tEAT on sST2 level was identified (F = 8.57; p = 0.005). In the EO (+) group, an increase in the level of MMP-3, type I collagen, type III collagen, PICP, transforming growth factor-β, and VEGF-A was revealed. Moreover, in the EO (+) group, a statistically significant relationship between sST2 and type III collagen was revealed (p = 0.01). When comparing the parameters of speckle-tracking echo, the EO group (+) presented with increased LV untwisting rate of –128.31 (–142.0; –118.0) deg/s-1 (p = 0.002), and increased time to LV peak untwisting rate of – 476.44 (510.0; 411.0) msec compared with the EO group (–) (p = 0.03). Moreover, a significant association between LV untwisting rate and sST2 level was revealed in the EO (+) group (r = 0.35; p = 0.02).

Conclusion. The data obtained indicate that patients with EO have LVDD, which could not be detected using echo criteria for LVDD, and the determination of serum levels of the heart failure biomarker - sST2 can be used for the diagnosis of LVDD at the early stage.

Highlights. The article presents an analysis of the outcome of the project dedicated to cardiovascular disease prevention in the Regional Vascular Center, the analysis involved the assessment of changes in the characteristics of deceased patients. The study made it possible to identify changes in mortality rate, the impact of new diagnostic and treatment techniques and administrative decisions on the change in mortality, as well as aspects that prevent further reduction in mortality.

Aim. To assess the results of the implementation of new methodological approaches to cardiovascular diseases prevention, myocardial infarction in particular, in the Regional Vascular Center.

Methods. The study involved the analysis of the data (entered in real time) from the Emergency Cardiac Care Department of the Сardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and data from the Department`s database containing anamnestic and clinical characteristics of patients, and recording of deaths in the period from 2014 to 2019. Statistical data processing was performed using the StatSoft Statistica software (ver. 10.0).

Results. From 2014 to 2019, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in myocardial infarction (MI) increased from 48 to 67.4% (p˂0.05); the primary PCI in MI with ST segment elevation (STEMI) increased from 24% to 32% (p˂0.001), the overall frequency of PCI in STEMI (primary + rescue + delayed) increased from 59.6% to 73% (p˂0.05); PCI in MI without ST segment elevation (NSTEMI) increased from 23.9% to 43.9% (p˂0.001), the frequency of intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation increased from 0.6% to 1.5% (p˂0.05), the frequency of mechanical ventilation did not change (8,3 and 8,5%), moreover the widespread use of ticagrelor and prasugrel was noted. At the same time, hospital mortality of patients with MI decreased from 9.8 to 8.0% (p>0,05): in patients with STEMI it decreased from 10.7% to 7.7% (p = 0.047), in patients with NSTEMI there was no change in mortality, it remained equal to 8–9%. Implementation of coronary reperfusion strategies that do not involve streptokinase is associated with a decrease in hospital mortality of patients with STEMI.

Conclusion. The widespread introduction of modern invasive and medicinal technologies has led to a decrease in mortality of patients with STEMI. Further increasing the number of available invasive procedures – PCI, intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation and mechanical ventilation for the purposes of reducing mortality of patients with MI seems questionable.

Highlights. Interactive brain stimulation is the next step in neurofeedback technology, it implies the possibility of volitional regulation of the hemodynamic response of specific brain region in order to transform entire brain network and obtain the desired clinical and behavioral dynamics in patients (subjects). One of the indications for using the technology is post-stroke movements disorders when the volitional influence is focused on the motor area of the brain.

Background. Neurofeedback and closely related concepts of neural interface system and “interactive brain” are considered as the foundation for developing algorithms for controlling neuroplasticity. Interactive brain therapy (stimulation) is a recently developed type of neurofeedback therapy, which implies dependence of feedback on a hemodynamic response signal recorded by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The technology focuses on the region of interest with good accuracy and enables teaching the subject to control the activity of both individual cerebral structures and the functional connectivity between them, causing behavioral metamorphoses.

Aim. To demonstrate the study design involving interactive stimulation of secondary motor areas of the brain using a bimodal fMRI-electroencephalography platform, and to describe the dynamics of the motor networks during treatment in patients with hemiparesis in the early period of recovery from stroke.

Methods. The study involved 11 patients who were trained to regulate the activity of the secondary motor area and premotor cortex of the affected hemisphere, receiving feedback on the fMRI signal and the activity of the mu- (8–13 Hz) and beta2 (18–26 Hz) EEG ranges of the areas of interest. The block-designed training consisted of 6 sessions (imagination of movement – rest) with an interval of 2–3 days. During treatment the dynamics of the hemodynamic response of the areas of interest was analyzed. In test sessions (before treatment, immediately after the end, and six months later) functional connections within the motor network were reconstructed and hand function was assessed (grip strength, Fugle-Meyer Assessment, Box and Blocks test).

Results. Upon completion of treatment, an increase in grip strength and dexterity was achieved; there was an increase in the fMRI signal of the premotor cortex of the ipsilateral hemisphere, and a strengthening of the interhemispheric functional connectivity of the secondary motor areas.

Conclusion. fMRI and the interactive brain therapy technology built on its basis, on the one hand, provide the technological foundation for the “interactive brain” and the transformation of spontaneous neuroplasticity into a controlled one, and on the other hand, serve as an important tool for monitoring the process of restructuring of cerebral networks after a stroke, providing the ability to record the emergence (or disappearance) of connectivity between brain regions, and to measure its strength in dynamics, that is, to give a numerical description of neuroplasticity.

Highlights. In the absence of venous pathology during verticalization, there is an increase in venous outflow both through the vertebral veins and through the internal jugular veins. In the absence of venous pathology, the internal jugular veins are the dominant route of venous outflow in clinostasis and orthostasis.

Aim. To study the dynamics of venous outflow along the internal jugular veins (IJV) and vertebral veins (VV) during the transition from horizontal to vertical position.

Methods. The study included 10 healthy women aged 24±2.91 years. Inclusion criteria were as follows: 1) optimal structure of the venous system, in which both of patient`s IJV are approximately symmetrical in cross-sectional area (CSA) and the intensity of the collapse, CSA of IJV exceeds CSA of the common carotid artery by 2–2.5 times, noticeable efficiency of valves during the Valsalva maneuver; 2) venous pressure (VD) in the brachial vein is 18–20 mm Hg. The exclusion criteria were: 1) a history of any disorders of cerebral circulation, symptoms of venous encephalopathy, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, compression of the neurovascular bundle when exiting the chest, arterial hypertension, any cervical spine pathology, hypertrophy and rigidity of the cervical and nodding muscles, 2) arterial pathology of brachiocephalic/intracranial arteries (stenosis, tortuosity, anomalies of the structure), 3) any cardiac pathology, 4) endocrine diseases. The study involved the method of triplex ultrasound with measurements of the cross-sectional areas of IJV, the diameters of VV, time-averaged mean velocity for volumetric blood flow (TAV) in clinostasis and orthostasis. Changes in volumetric venous outflow during verticalization of patients were evaluated as well.

Results. In orthostasis, the mean CSA of IJV decreased from 0.862±0.043 cm2 to 0.19±0.024 cm2 , the mean TAV increased from 6.950±2.373 cm/s to 66,000±6.875 cm/s, the average volumetric blood flow increased from 5.952±2.006 mL/s to 12.425±1.559 mL/s. The mean TAV for VV during verticalization increased from 6,800±2.067 cm/s to 16,000±2.271 cm/s, and the average volumetric blood flow from 0.167±0.051 ml/s to 0.402±0.098 mL/s.

Conclusion. In all cases, the volumetric blood flow along IJV dominated the volumetric blood flow along VV in clinostasis and orthostasis. In the absence of venous pathology, the dominant pathway of venous outflow in clinostasis and orthostasis are IJV.

Highlights. The article provides new data on the association between changes in regional cerebral blood flow during SPECT and cognitive impairment in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and combined carotid endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass. The possibilities of using SPECT as a diagnostic tool in localization of areas with a similar association, in assessing the dynamics in brain perfusion and cognitive functions in the pre- and postoperative period are shown.

Aim. To determine the presence of an association between the indicators of regional cerebral blood flow according to single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) data and the data of neuropsychological testing in cardiac surgery patients.

Methods. We studied the parameters of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and the data of neuropsychological testing in 34 cardiac surgical patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG, n = 13) and combined carotid endarterectomy and CABG (n = 21). The state of the brain was assessed by SPECT using a radiopharmaceutical 99mTc-HMPAO (Ceretek). Assessment of cognitive functions before surgery, 2–3 days before, and in the early postoperative period, on days 5–7, was carried out using a hardware-software complex Status-PF.

Results. A statistically significant relationship was found between the indices of rCBF according to neuropsychological testing data in the pre- and postoperative period. We noted a moderate correlation with the Beck Depression Scale indicators in the 1^st (p = 0.010943) and 2^nd (p = 0.000604) groups before surgery. There was a high correlation with visual-motor response time (VMR) before (p = 0.003878) and after the procedure (p = 0.001251), a moderate correlation with the number of errors (VMR) before the procedure (p = 0.042911) and a high correlation after the procedure (p = 0.003521) in the 1^st group; in the 2^nd group, there was a moderate correlation before (p = 0.004625) and after the procedure (p = 0 .005689). A moderate correlation with the indicators of attention after the procedure (p = 0.049611) was noted in the 1^st group, in the 2^nd group, we noted a moderate correlation before (p = 0.021969) and after the procedure (p = 0.008905). In the 2^nd group there was a moderate correlation with the number of processed symbols (the Bourdon test) during the 1^st minute before the procedure (p = 0.016491), a high correlation after the procedure (p = 0.007920), and a high correlation with the number of processed symbols during the 4^th minute before the procedure (p = 0.001473). There was a moderate correlation with a total with number of processed symbols in the 2^nd group before (p = 0.029073) and after the procedure (p = 0.024164), and a high correlation with the number of errors made after the procedure in the 1^st (p = 0.006367) and 2^nd (p = 0.013780) groups. A high correlation with indicators of attention after surgery (p = 0.000153) was noted as well

Conclusion. The indicators of regional cerebral blood flow obtained by SPECT in patients undergoing isolated CABG and combined CAE and CABG were associated with the data of neuropsychological testing and reflect changes in the cognitive status of patients.

Highlights. Stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation is extremely important and difficult. Lifelong anticoagulant therapy is not always an effective way of preventing thrombosis in the left atrial appendage in this group of patients. In this regard, one of the most urgent problems of modern surgical arrhythmology and cardiac surgery is the search for new open and minimally invasive surgical methods of excluding the left atrial appendage from the blood flow.

Aim. To investigate the safety and efficacy of using the left atrial appendage stapler for video-guided thoracoscopic ablation (TSA) of non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods. The retrospective, single-center study included 100 patients with non-valvular AF who underwent video-guided thoracoscopic ablation of AF with single-stage left atrial appendage exclusion using an Endo GIA stapler (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA).

Results. The mean age of the patients was 56,2±8,8 years, the majority of the patients (73 patients, 73%) were male. Patients with persistent 50 (50%) AF and longstanding AF 50 (50%) were included in the study. The duration of atrial fibrillation was 4 (1,7–7) years. The median CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores were 2 (1–1,5) and 1 (0-1), respectively. The mean anticoagulation therapy-to-ablation time was 4,2±1,9 years. Thirty-eight (38%) patients were prescribed warfarin preoperatively. The completeness of left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion was confirmed by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography. The average length of the staple lines was 48 (35–75). A single left atrial appendage exclusion was performed using a 60 mm staples. In 12 (12%) patients, stapler exclusions were performed using two 45 mm staples due to insufficient staple length. None of the patients had ruptures, punctures along the staple lines or rupture of the surrounding epicardial tissue. Anticoagulant therapy was discontinued 6 months after TSA in 70 (70%) patients with sustained sinus rhythm observed on 24-h Holter Monitoring, satisfactory CHA2DS2-VASc scores and after confirmation of absence of left atrial thrombus by transesophageal echocardiography and contrast-enhanced MSCT. No strokes were reported within 1,2±0,7 years after discontinuing anticoagulation therapy.

Conclusion. Exclusion of LAA using a stapler for TSA is a highly effective and safe technique for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation compared to alternative methods of excluding the LAA from the systemic blood flow.

Highlights. Ultrasound and MR venography of internal jugular veins in case of unilateral cerebellar hypoplasia or extrinsic stenosis enables noninvasively and without contrast agents differentiation of these conditions due to local and region-specific indicators, including the area and velocity of blood flow, arterial-venous balance, visualization of low blood flow, compression factor, and the overall clinical picture of venous network of the neck remodeling and the development of collateral circulation.

Aim. To compare the visual and hemodynamic characteristics of ultrasound and magnetic resonance venography of extrinsic stenosis and hypoplasia of internal jugular veins (IJV).

Methods. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance (MR) venography were performed in 47 patients with extrinsic stenosis and 23 patients with hypoplasia of one of internal jugular veins, and in the control group (30 patients).

Results. In case of obvious vein compression and deformation and local stenosis (65% on average), there is a decrease in the vein cross-sectional area by 2 times compared with the contralateral vein, the blood flow velocity in the stenotic vein in acute cases increases (on average, up to 45 cm/s), and in chronic cases it significantly (p = 0.00001) decreases (to 13 cm/s on average). The criteria for hypoplasia are the small caliber of the vein (on average 0.22 cm², within the range of 0.13–0.46 cm²) throughout its entire length - with the cross-sectional area not exceeding that of the common carotid artery, and the vein being 4 times smaller than IJV on contralateral side, as well as a significant (p = 0.0006) velocity increase on the contralateral side (on average 40.9±12.52 cm/s) with normal velocity in the hypoplastic vein. Ultrasound assessment of the arterial-venous balance (AVB) makes it possible to evaluate the contribution of each IJV to the outflow of venous blood from the brain separately. From the hypoplastic side it was only 11.01±6.72%, and from the stenotic side it was 18.22±17 42% on average, which is significantly (p = 0.000001) below the norm, but does not allow us to differentiate these conditions. The total AVB for IJVs on both sides was within normal values (65–85%), and the absence of a pronounced expansion of the vertebral veins during MR venography confirms their insignificant role in the compensatory mechanisms of ensuring adequate outflow of venous blood from the brain in cases of unilateral hypoplasia and extrinsic stenosis of IJV.

Conclusion. Ultrasound and MR venography of internal jugular veins in cases of unilateral hypoplasia or extrinsic stenosis enable noninvasively and without contrast agents differentiation of these conditions due to local and region-specific indicators, including the area and velocity of blood flow, arterial-venous balance, visualization of low blood flow, compression factor, and the overall clinical picture of venous network of the neck remodeling and the development of collateral circulation.

Highlights. An increase in the pulsatility index of intracranial venous blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid flow at the foramen magnum level, and a decrease in arteriovenous delay and an intracranial compliance index indicate disturbances in the pulse wave distribution, and a decrease in compliance/extensibility of the brain due to increased intracranial pressure.

Aim. To assess the parameters of hemodynamics and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension syndrome according to phase-contrast MRI.

Methods. The study included 18 patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension syndrome and 20 controls, all patient were examined using the Ingenia 3,0T MRI scanner. The analysis was performed using phase-contrast MRI to assess quantitative parameters of hemodynamics and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics in 14 different structures. The blood and CSF volumes, pulsatility index (PI), arterio-venous delay, and intracranial compliance index were calculated. The Mann-Whitney U-test reliability was used to assess the differences between the controls and patients.

Results. The group of patients had an increased CSF systolic peak at the foramen magnum without significant changes in CSF volume, and significantly increased CSF PI at the cervical level by 11.88% (p<0,05). There was a tendency toward an increase in the intracranial venous blood volume, as well as a tendency toward significant increase in PI at the straight and superior sagittal sinuses by 1,3 times (p><0,01, p><0,05). Moreover, there was a reduction of intracranial arterio-venous delay by 1,9 times (p><0,05), and a significant decrease in the intracranial compliance index by 1,2 times (p><0,05). Conclusion We have assessed the parameters of hemodynamics and CSF dynamics in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and revealed disturbances in CSF dynamics and pulse wave propagation in the intracranial regions. Such changes may indicate a decrease in compliance/increase in stiffness of the brain tissue due to an increase in intracranial pressure and a possible diffuse stagnation of interstitial fluid. Keywords Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging • Central nervous system • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension • Hemodynamics • Cerebrospinal fluid dynamics • Intracranial compliance index>˂0,05). There was a tendency toward an increase in the intracranial venous blood volume, as well as a tendency toward significant increase in PI at the straight and superior sagittal sinuses by 1,3 times (p˂0,01, p˂0,05). Moreover, there was a reduction of intracranial arterio-venous delay by 1,9 times (p˂0,05), and a significant decrease in the intracranial compliance index by 1,2 times (p˂0,05).

Conclusion. We have assessed the parameters of hemodynamics and CSF dynamics in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and revealed disturbances in CSF dynamics and pulse wave propagation in the intracranial regions. Such changes may indicate a decrease in compliance/increase in stiffness of the brain tissue due to an increase in intracranial pressure and a possible diffuse stagnation of interstitial fluid.

Highlights. The hypothesis of the evolution of LV twisting types is proposed, which is based on the gradual transformation of LV twisting types as a prerequisite for postnatal growth and development of heart chambers in healthy children and adolescents. In the future, the transition of one type of LV twist to another will enable us to diagnose the predominance of growth and maturation of the fibrous skeleton, apex, vortex cordis, trabecular apparatus, as well as creating projections of the individual development and growth of the heart in childhood and adolescence.

Abstract. Modern data on the nature of the mechanics of the left ventricle (LV) in postnatal ontogenesis in healthy children and adolescents born full-term are fundamental, since they allow not only to determine ontogenetically conditioned variants of individual development of contractile-rotational mechanisms of LV in the process of growth and development, but also, if necessary, make it possible to identify subclinical dysfunction in the early stages, monitor the effectiveness of complex therapeutic and rehabilitation measures. The article analyzes newly established fact of the absence of static character of the selected various forms of LV twisting into a systole and the ability of their transformation in the process of growth and development. This fact forms the basis of the author's original hypothesis of “the evolution of LV twisting models”, which provides the optimal ontogenetic growth of the child and adolescent heart in the postnatal period. The hypothesis of “evolution of left ventricular twisting types” is based on modern knowledge about multifaceted processes at the tissue level, the mechanics of LV in the individual rate of development and growth of the heart in childhood and adolescence.

Highlights. The article describes the contribution of foreign and Russian surgeons to the development of aortic valve replacement using autologous tissue, and presents the evolution of the technique. The authors tried to answer the question whether the Japanese professor S. Ozaki actually developed something new or the discovery was already made 40 years ago. At the end of the article, the technique developed by a Russian cardiac surgeon is presented, casting doubt on the use of templates in this procedure.

Abstract. Aortic valve replacement using autologous pericardium (neocuspidalization) is becoming an increasingly attractive option that can be applied to a wide range of aortic valve diseases. This technique avoids the need for lifelong administration of anticoagulant drugs, and provides the maximum effective orifice area, resulting in a low transvalvular gradient. The new technique, introduced by Shigeyuki Ozaki, has made the procedure more reproducible with promising medium- and longterm results. But is Ozaki the predecessor of this technique or is “all new is well forgotten old”? This review focuses on the historical aspects of the development of neocuspidalization of the aortic valve using autologous pericardium, the first interventions for valve reconstruction are mentioned, the evolution in the technique of preparation and fixation of the leaflets is reflected.

Highlights. This review systematizes the results of experimental and clinical studies on the impact of coronary artery bypass grafting on angiogenesis and potential use of pyrimidine derivatives for therapeutic angiogenesis.

Abstract. Coronary artery bypass grafting is the preferred treatment modality for multivessel coronary artery disease. However, the clinical efficacy of the procedure decreases over time due to the progression of atherosclerosis in the bypass grafts and native coronary arteries. In this regard, it is of great scientific and practical interest to disclose the mechanisms affecting the development of the microvasculature during myocardial surgical revascularization, as well as the search for pharmacological substances capable of stimulating the process of angiogenesis during these surgeries to improve short and long-term outcomes. The article presents a review of experimental and clinical studies on the effect of coronary artery bypass surgery on angiogenesis and highlights the place of pyrimidine derivatives in therapeutic angiogenesis in coronary artery disease.

Highlights. Autonomic dysfunction syndrome is an urgent issue in modern medicine, however, it should be an exceptional diagnosis, established after a comprehensive diagnostic study, as many diseases can often appear as this syndrome. The presented case describes the patient with a combined pathology of Kimmerle`s anomaly and Chiari malformation, who was diagnosed with autonomic dysfunction long time ago.

Abstract. Autonomic dysfunction syndrome (ADS) is a topical issue of modern medicine. Differential diagnosis of this syndrome is often a difficult task for a practicing physician, because an organic disease of various etiologies can be hidden under the guise of autonomic dysfunction. The article analyzes a clinical case of a patient with a combined pathology of Kimmerle`s and Arnold-Chiari anomalies, which were not diagnosed for a long time due to the fact that clinical symptoms (syncope and presyncope conditions, dizziness, pain in the occipital region, aggravated by physical exertion and emotional stress, rises in blood pressure up to 160 mm Hg) are identical to those in ADS. After prolonged treatment of ADS without any positive effect, the child was sent to the Research Clinical Institute of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery named after academician Yuri Veltischev. Having received surgical treatment, the patient had no complaints for 6 months. The presented clinical case confirms that the diagnosis of ADS should be an exceptional diagnosis, established only after a complex and comprehensive examination.

Highlights. The clinical case report describes the important role of MRI in the perinatal diagnosis of dural sinus thrombosis, timely verification of the diagnosis, differential diagnosis with other vascular and tumor formations of the brain.

Abstract. Dural sinus thrombosis (DST) is a rare congenital anomaly. Ultrasound findings usually mimic intracranial tumors. As a result, the condition is often misdiagnosed and its frequency in general population is underestimated. According to literature data, the progression of DST is a favorable prognosis in case of absence of other concomitant pathologies of the fetal brain. We present a case of DST that was detected with ultrasound, and verified by numerous pre and postnatal MRI starting from 22 weeks of gestation till 4 years of life. A case with a favorable neurological outcome, postnatal ventriculosubgaleal shunting, and ventriculoperitoneal shunting was followed with MRI and CT before and after interventions. The aspects of differential diagnosis, factors determining prognosis are presented. The presented case demonstrates a significant role of fetal MRI in DST diagnosis, depiction of the internal structure of the expanded sinus, and exclusion of concomitant pathology of the brain. These MRI data are integral in determining the appropriate perinatal management, and can be used as predictors of the favorable neurological outcome despite of the severity and size of prenatally diagnosed DSТ.

Highlights. The study shows for the first time that during the three-year follow-up of patients with diseases of the arteries of the lower extremities in the observation groups of a general surgeon and a cardiologist, adverse events (myocardial infarction, stroke, amputation, disability) and deaths occurred more often in a surgeon than a cardiologist. The study proves the correctness and real benefit of such an approach with the involvement of a cardiologist to the outpatient stage of management of a complex cohort of patients with atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities.

Aim. To study the effect the outpatient observation of patients with peripheral arteries disease (PAD) by cardiologists and surgeons has on timing and prevalence of reconstructive surgery and the prognosis of patients. Methods We analyzed the data on 585 PAD patients who underwent outpatient observation from 2010 to 2017, dividing them into 2 groups. The first group (131 patients) managed by an surgeon; the second (454 patients) managed by a cardiologist. Since the groups were not comparable in terms of the initial parameters, the comparability of patients in the groups (observation by a surgeon or by a cardiologist) was achieved using pseudorandomization. The follow-up period was three years; we assessed the incidence of deaths, adverse events, and the prevalence of reconstructive operations.

Results. During a three-year follow-up the 1st group, compared with the 2nd, had more deaths in general (p<0.001), death from cardiac causes (p = 0.045), from stroke (p><0.001), as well as the total number of adverse events (p><0.001) and disability (p = 0.065). Indications for reconstructive surgery on the lower extremities arteries (LEA), and operations frequency were comparatible in groups. Amputation history, taking diuretics, presence of rhythm disturbances, and management by a surgeon increased the risk of adverse outcomes. Management by a cardiologist, reconstructive LEA surgeries, female sex improved the prognosis of patients. Conclusion Observation of PAD patients by a cardiologist contributes to a higher frequency of optimal drug therapy by patients and can reduce the number of adverse events in patients and improve their survival without affecting the timing and frequency of reconstructive LEA surgeries. Keywords Peripheral atherosclerosis • Outpatient follow-up • Optimal drug therapy • Reconstructive surgery>˂ 0.001), death from cardiac causes (p = 0.045), from stroke (p˂ 0.001), as well as the total number of adverse events (p˂ 0.001) and disability (p = 0.065). Indications for reconstructive surgery on the lower extremities arteries (LEA), and operations frequency were comparatible in groups. Amputation history, taking diuretics, presence of rhythm disturbances, and management by a surgeon increased the risk of adverse outcomes. Management by a cardiologist, reconstructive LEA surgeries, female sex improved the prognosis of patients.

Conclusion. Observation of PAD patients by a cardiologist contributes to a higher frequency of optimal drug therapy by patients and can reduce the number of adverse events in patients and improve their survival without affecting the timing and frequency of reconstructive LEA surgeries.

Highlights. Despite high hospital mortality after coronary bypass grafting in patients with high-risk non–STsegment elevation acute coronary syndrome, surgical myocardial revascularization remains a preferable treatment modality since percutaneous coronary intervention in these patients is associated with high perioperative complications due to severely calcified coronary lesions.

Background. The optimal revascularization strategy in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) remains the subject of many years of controversy. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) improves the long-term prognosis through complete revascularization, however, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), due to its availability and low invasiveness, suggests an improvement in hospital outcomes.

Aim. To compare hospital outcomes of CABG and PCI performed within 24 hours in high-risk NSTE-ACS patients.

Methods. In the present study, the first group included 30 NSTE-ACS patients who underwent CABG in the first 24 hours (the CABG group), whereas 30 NSTE-ACS patients who underwent PCI were included in the second group (the PCI group).

Results. The mean age was 64,4±7,3 years, it was comparable in both groups. The main clinical and anamnestic characteristics of patient in both groups were comparable as well. The severity of coronary atherosclerosis according to the Syntax score was 25,6±9,2 in the CABG group, and 21,7±5,7 in the PCI group (p = 0,054). After revascularization, the residual Syntax score did not differ between the groups (p = 0,42), indicating complete revascularization. Hospital mortality was relatively high in the CABG group (13,3%), while no such cases were noted in the PCI group. Most of the patients with adverse outcomes had a critical lesion of the left main coronary artery and a complicated postoperative course.

Conclusion. The results of this study demonstrate promising outcome of CABG in patients with severe multivessel coronary disease at high risk of adverse events.

Highlights. In recent decades, the number of patients with diffuse, multivessel coronary artery disease has increased due to widespread use of endovascular methods of treatment, long-term conservative management of patients, and the expansion of indications for surgical revascularization. In order to improve the results of treatment, in 2007 academician Yu. L. Shevchenko developed and began using the method of stimulation of extracardiac angiogenesis – «YurLeon». The present article demonstrates the long-term results of supplementing coronary bypass surgery with this method in patients with diffuse coronary artery disease.

Aim. To evaluate long-term results of coronary bypass surgery supplemented by extracardiac myocardial revascularization.

Methods. The prospective, randomized study included 205 patients with diffuse, multivessel coronary artery disease who were treated at the St. George Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic, National Medical and Surgical Center named after N.I. Pirogov. The majority of patients were men – 75% (n = 153), whereas women accounted for 25% (n = 52), all patients were 60 to 78 years old (67.3±5.74 years). The group I consisted of patients with coronary bypass surgery supplemented with the «YurLeon» technique, the group II consisted of patients with coronary bypass grafting only. All patients provided consent to participate in the study. The clinical condition of patients, echocardiography, myocardial scintigraphy and coronary angiography data, quality of life indicators (the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey) were assessed.

Results. In the long-term postoperative period (36 months), the group I, compared with the group II, presented with a statistically significant decrease in the functional class of angina pectoris (1[1–2] vs. 2[1–2], p = 0.02); fewer adverse events: myocardial infarction (4.5% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.011), recurrent angina pectoris (10% vs. 17.9%, p = 0.038); an increase in the left ventricular ejection fraction (59.0±5.15% vs. 53.2±6.13%, p = 0.001); a decrease in the Summed Rest Score (SRS) (4.5±3.5 vs. 8.4±5.7, p = 0.012) according to myocardial scintigraphy with technetril; a decrease in the Summed Thickening Score (STS) (6.1±3.3 vs. 10.7±2.9, p = 0.012); a decrease in the hibernating myocardium (3.5±2.2% vs. 7.4±5.1%, p = 0.03); additional extracardiac sources were found in the group I according to coronary graft angiography, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups by occluded autogenous venous bypass grafts (in the group I – 23 out of 46 venous conduits (49%), in the group II – 30 out of 49 venous conduits (51%), p = 0.089); The groups differed in terms of quality of life (the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey): physical functioning (87.3±10.32 vs. 75.3±14.15 points, p = 0.001); role-based functioning due to physical condition (90.1±10.50 vs. 79.7±7.01 points, p = 0.012); pain (93.10±6.37 vs. 80.5±5.21 points, p = 0.03); the total physical component of health (57.9±5.4 vs. 45.8±6.1 points, p = 0.012).

Conclusion. We have accumulated 15 years of experience in conducting complex myocardial revascularization in patients with coronary artery disease and diffuse coronary atherosclerosis, which allowed us to prove the effectiveness and safety of the YurLeon technique.

Highlights. Small cerebral aneurysms (<3 mm), which make up the majority of aneurysms, rupture more frequently, although medium (>3 mm) and giant (>15 mm) aneurysms and have a higher risk of rupture. This article proves for the first time that the rupture risk criteria developed for giant cerebral aneurysms do not work for small aneurysms. The development of small aneurysms in patients was analyzed and measured morphological features of aneurysms were compared with their calculated hydrodynamic characteristics.

Aim. To study the dynamics of development of small cerebral aneurysms, to assess the applicability of existing methods for calculating the risk of rupture, to formulate new clarifying hypotheses for calculating the risk of rupture of small cerebral aneurysms.

Methods. Patient data were provided by the Federal Center for Neurosurgery, Novosibirsk. CT angiography was performed using a Philips Ingenuite CT scanner (Philips Medical Systems, USA, 128 slices). Aneurysm size dynamics was assessed by measuring three main sizes with an accuracy of 0.1 mm using the IntelliSpace Portal Philips software environment. Numerical calculations were carried out using ANSYS CFX 2020R2.

Results. Hemodynamic characteristics change according to the changes of the aneurysm dome. In the case when morphological characteristics of the aneurysm have not changed, a change in the geometry of the patient's circle of Willis (coW) is observed: the curvature of the arteries, the angles of bifurcations (the structure of coW remained unchanged). The PHASES score (absolute risks of rupture for aneurysms) was found to be unusable for the considered aneurysms.

Conclusion. This work formulates and morphologically and hydrodynamically confirms for the first time in the volunteers that the change in risk estimates for such aneurysms is fundamentally affected, even insignificantly, by the change in the circle of Willis: a change in the curvature of individual segments of the cerebral arteries, as well as the angles of their bifurcations. The results obtained are aimed at modifying the existing risk criteria for rupture of cerebral aneurysms.

Highlights. A successful case of surgical treatment of a child with a stab wound of the heart and damaged anterior interventricular artery is presented.

Abstract. A girl aged 5 years and 9 months was admitted to the hospital in extremely severe condition with multiple stab wounds to the chest and left shoulder and massive bleeding. The child was immediately taken to the operating room due to hemorrhagic shock and injury localized in the anatomical area directly affecting heart function. The wound in the projection of the interventricular sulcus was repaired with one U-shaped suture, hemodynamics was stabilized by inotropic agents. In the postoperative period, heart failure developed due to akinesia of the apical segments, anterior, lateral and anterolateral walls, and reduced ejection fraction. An emergency coronary angiography revealed an occlusion of the anterior interventricular artery (AIV). Emergency repeated surgical intervention was performed. We diagnosed complete intersection of AIV with thrombosis in the proximal and distal segments. Surgical treatment of the coronary stumps enabled satisfactory antegrade and retrograde blood flow. End-to-end coronary-coronary bypass grafting with AIV grafting was performed on the beating heart. The postoperative period was uneventful. Active lifestyle, absence of complaints, and AIV being opaque, including autogenous graft, were reported in the long-term follow up. The presented case proves that effective diagnostic protocol, echocardiography data and appropriate choice of surgical technique led to a positive outcome.