Name: external cephalic version: is it an effective and safe procedure?
Uploaded: 2020-06-06T13:00:00.000+00:00
Duration: 8 min 49 s
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure? at JoVE.com

We thank all the midwives and anesthesiologists who have collaborated on this project. David Sim&#243; has specially collaborated with this project recording the procedure.

This study was approved by the Clinic Research Committee of the &#34;Virgen de la Arrixaca&#34; at the University Clinical Hospital. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.
1. Offer external cephalic version at consult (36 weeks)
<ol>
	<li>Identify the fetal position with an ultrasound.
	<ol>
		<li>Apply ultrasound gel on the patient&#8217;s abdomen.</li>
		<li>Place the abdominal probe on the hypogastric region.</li>
		<li>Identify the fetal position.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Offer external cephalic version.</li>
	<li>Have the patient sign informed consent.</li>
</ol>
2. Admit in the obstetric emergency room (&#8805;37 weeks)
<ol>
	<li>Identify the fetal position with an ultrasound.
	<ol>
		<li>Apply ultrasound gel on the patient&#8217;s abdomen.</li>
		<li>Place the abdominal probe on the hypogastric region.</li>
		<li>Identify the fetal position.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Prepare the patient and check requirements (blood test and informed consent).</li>
</ol>
3. Admit in the obstetric delivery room
<ol>
	<li>Perform cardiotocography assessment for fetal well-being.</li>
	<li>Add 10 mL of ritodrine in 500 mL of glucose solution.</li>
	<li>30 minutes before the procedure, administer 6 mg of ritodrine at 60 mL/h.</li>
	<li>Invite the patient to empty her bladder.</li>
	<li>Stop ritodrine perfusion before moving to the obstetric operating room.</li>
</ol>
4. External cephalic version procedure in obstetric operating room
<ol>
	<li>Move to the obstetric operating room.</li>
	<li>Monitor maternal vital signs (heartrate, EKG, temperature, noninvasive blood pressure, oxygen saturation).</li>
	<li>Identify the fetal position with an ultrasound.
	<ol>
		<li>Apply ultrasound gel on the patient&#8217;s abdomen.</li>
		<li>Place the abdominal probe on the hypogastric region.</li>
		<li>Identify the fetal position.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Position the patient in Trendelenburg (15&#176;).</li>
	<li>Perform analgesia.
	<ol>
		<li>Sedate the patient with 1-1.5 mg/kg propofol IV.</li>
		<li>Alternatively: Provide spinal anesthesia with 10 mL of 0.1% bupivacaine.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>External cephalic version procedure (2 attempts)
	<ol>
		<li>Apply an abundant quantity of ultrasound gel on the patient&#8217;s abdomen.</li>
		<li>Place hands in the hypogastric region to identify the fetal buttocks (Obstetrician A).</li>
		<li>Elevate fetal buttocks (Obstetrician A).</li>
		<li>Place hands in the patient&#8217;s abdomen to locate the fetal head (Obstetrician B).</li>
		<li>Guide the fetal buttocks to the fundus (Obstetrician A).</li>
		<li>Consecutively direct the fetal head to the pelvis (Obstetrician B).</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Identify the fetal well-being with ultrasound.
	<ol>
		<li>Place the abdominal probe on the abdomen.</li>
		<li>Identify the fetal heart.</li>
		<li>Observe the fetal heart rate for at least a minute.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Check for vaginal bleeding.</li>
	<li>Identify the fetal position with ultrasound.
	<ol>
		<li>Place the abdominal probe on the hypogastric region.</li>
		<li>Identify the fetal position.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
5. Move to obstetric delivery room
<ol>
	<li>Perform cardiotocography assessment for fetal well-being for at least 4 hours.</li>
	<li>Discharge the patient.</li>
</ol>
6. Admit in obstetric emergency room (24 h post-procedure)
<ol>
	<li>Perform cardiotocography assessment for fetal well-being for 30 minutes.</li>
</ol>

<ol>
	<li>Melo, P., Georgiou, E. X., Hedditch, A., Ellaway, P., Impey, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=External+cephalic+version+at+term:+a+cohort+study+of+18+years'+experience.">External cephalic version at term: a cohort study of 18 years' experience.</a> British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 126, 493-499 (2019).</li><li>Hofmeyr, G. J., Kulier, R., West, H. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=External+cephalic+version+for+breech+presentation+at+term.">External cephalic version for breech presentation at term.</a> Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 4, 83 (2015).</li><li>Isakov, O., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Prediction+of+Success+in+External+Cephalic+Version+for+Breech+Presentation+at+Term.">Prediction of Success in External Cephalic Version for Breech Presentation at Term.</a> Obstetrics and Gynecology. 133 (5), 857-866 (2019).</li><li>Ebner, F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Predictors+for+a+successful+external+cephalic+version:+a+single+centre+experience.">Predictors for a successful external cephalic version: a single centre experience.</a> Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 293 (4), 749-755 (2016).</li><li>Castan&#771;er-Ma&#769;rmol, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Results of external cephalic version in our area without rutinary tocolysis. Review and implementation strategy. , (2015).</li><li>Burgos, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Probability+of+cesarean+delivery+after+successful+external+cephalic+version.">Probability of cesarean delivery after successful external cephalic version.</a> International Journal of Gynecology &amp; Obstetrics. 131 (2), 192-195 (2015).</li><li>Mu&#241;oz, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=External+cephalic+version+at+term:+accumulated+experience.">External cephalic version at term: accumulated experience.</a> Progresos de Obstetricia y Ginecolog&#237;a. 48 (12), 574-580 (2005).</li><li>Velzel, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Atosiban+versus+fenoterol+as+a+uterine+relaxant+for+external+cephalic+version:+randomised+controlled+trial.">Atosiban versus fenoterol as a uterine relaxant for external cephalic version: randomised controlled trial.</a> British Medical Journal. 356 (26), 6773 (2017).</li><li>Thissen, D., Swinkels, P., Dullemond, R. C., van der Steeg, J. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Introduction+of+a+dedicated+team+increases+the+success+rate+of+external+cephalic+version:+A+prospective+cohort+study.">Introduction of a dedicated team increases the success rate of external cephalic version: A prospective cohort study.</a> European Journal of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 236 (3), 193-197 (2019).</li><li>Hindawi, I. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Value+and+pregnancy+outcome+of+external+cephalic+versi&#243;n.">Value and pregnancy outcome of external cephalic versi&#243;n.</a> Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal. 11 (4), 633-639 (2005).</li><li>Levin, G., Rottenstreich, A., Weill, Y., Pollack, R. N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+role+of+bladder+volume+in+the+success+of+external+cephalic+version.">The role of bladder volume in the success of external cephalic version.</a> European Journal of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 230, 178-181 (2018).</li><li>Vani, S., Lau, S. Y., Lim, B. K., Omar, S. Z., Tan, P. C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Intravenous+salbutamol+for+external+cephalic+version.">Intravenous salbutamol for external cephalic version.</a> International Journal of Gynecology &amp; Obstetrics. 104, 28-31 (2009).</li><li>Sullivan, J. T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+randomized+controlled+trial+of+the+effect+of+combined+spinal-epidural+analgesia+on+the+success+of+external+cephalic+version+for+breech+presentation.">A randomized controlled trial of the effect of combined spinal-epidural analgesia on the success of external cephalic version for breech presentation.</a> International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia. 18, 328-334 (2009).</li><li>Weiniger, C. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Randomized+controlled+trial+of+external+cephalic+version+in+term+multiparae+with+or+without+spinal+analgesia.">Randomized controlled trial of external cephalic version in term multiparae with or without spinal analgesia.</a> British Journal of Anaesthesia. 104 (5), 613-618 (2010).</li><li>Grootscholten, K., Kok, M., Oei, S. G., Mol, B. W., van der Post, J. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=External+cephalic+version-related+risks:+a+meta-analysis.">External cephalic version-related risks: a meta-analysis.</a> Obstetrics and Gynecology. 112 (5), 1143-1151 (2008).</li><li>Sociedad Espa&#241;ola de Ginecolog&#237;a y Obstetricia. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=External+cephalic+version+(updated+March+2014).">External cephalic version (updated March 2014).</a> Progresos de Obstetricia y Ginecolog&#237;a. 58 (7), 337-340 (2015).</li><li>Chaudhary, S., Contag, S., Yao, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+impact+of+maternal+body+mass+index+on+external+cephalic+version+success.">The impact of maternal body mass index on external cephalic version success.</a> Journal of Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine. 32, 21-59 (2019).</li><li>de Hundt, M., Velzel, J., de Groot, C. J., Mol, B. W., Kok, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mode+of+delivery+after+successful+external+cephalic+version:+a+systematic+review+and+meta-analysis.">Mode of delivery after successful external cephalic version: a systematic review and meta-analysis.</a> Obstetrics and Gynecology. 123 (6), 1327-1334 (2014).</li><li>Krueger, S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Labour+Outcomes+After+Successful+External+Cephalic+Version+Compared+With+Spontaneous+Cephalic+Version.">Labour Outcomes After Successful External Cephalic Version Compared With Spontaneous Cephalic Version.</a> Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Canada. 40, 61-67 (2018).</li><li>Kean, L. H., Suwanrath, C., Gargari, S. S., Sahota, D. S., James, D. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+comparison+of+fetal+behaviour+in+breech+and+cephalic+presentations+at+term.">A comparison of fetal behaviour in breech and cephalic presentations at term.</a> British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 106, 1209-1213 (1999).</li></ol>

The authors have nothing to disclose.

This article shows the procedure to carry out the ECV. The ECV procedure success rate in this study is 82.5% (78.1-86.4%), which is higher than the success rate found in international literature 49.0% (47-50.9%)1,2,3,4 or Spanish literature 53.49% (42.9-64.0%)5,6,7. This difference may be due to the us...

An erratum was issued for:&#160;<a href="https://www.jove.com/t/60636">External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?</a>. Figure 1 was updated from:
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/60636/60636fig1.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: Comparison of type of delivery: General pregnant population in 2018, ECV cohort between 2014-2018, Successful ECV cohort between 2014-2018. * Chi-squared test: p&#60;0.05. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/60636/60636fig1large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
to:
<img alt="Figure 1" class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/60636/60636fig1v3.jpg" /> 
Figure 1: Comparison of type of delivery: General pregnant population in 2018, ECV cohort between 2014-2018, Successful ECV cohort between 2014-2018. * Chi-squared test: p&#60;0.05. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/60636/60636fig1v2large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>

An erratum was issued for:&#160;<a href="https://www.jove.com/t/60636">External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?</a>. Figure 1 was updated.

Erratum: External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?

External cephalic version (ECV) is a procedure for modifying the fetal position and achieving a cephalic presentation. The objective of the ECV is to offer an opportunity for cephalic delivery to occur, which is widely known to be safer than breech or cesarean section. ECV is usually performed before the active labor period begins. Factors associated with a higher ECV success rate include1,4: multiparity, a transverse presentation, black race, posterior placenta, amniotic fluid index higher than 10 cm.
However, ECV is not an innocuous procedure and may present7,11 intraversion complications such as premature rupture of membranes, vaginal bleeding, transitory changes of fetal heart rate, cord prolapse, abruptio placentae, even stillbirth.
In this article, we analyzed ECVs performed under analgesia and tocolysis. To date, no video report has been published showing how to perform this procedure with analgesia and tocolysis. The main objective of this study is to show how ECV is performed. We also describe some key actions that could improve the procedural success. As a secondary objective, we analyzed the results of ECV obtained following the specific protocol with tocolysis and analgesia and compared the results with the literature. We also analyzed factors associated with ECV success rate, type of delivery and a comparison of the type of delivery in ECV pregnant women with non-ECV pregnant women were also included.

<table><tbody><tr><td>Avalon FM20 Fetal monitor</td><td>Koninklijke Philips N.V</td><td></td><td>https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/product/HC862198/avalon-fm20-fetal-monitor</td></tr><tr><td>Convex Array Probe 4C-RS</td><td>General Electric Health Care Company</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Aquasonic&amp;reg; 100 Ultrasound Transmission Gel</td><td>Parker Laboratories, INC</td><td></td><td>https://www.parkerlabs.com/aquasonic-100.asp</td></tr><tr><td>Propofol Lipuro (10 mg/mL Inject 20 mL)</td><td>B. Braun Medical, SA</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Ritodrine Pre-par (10 mg/mL)</td><td>Laboratorio Reig Jofr&amp;eacute;, S.A</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Viridia series 50 XM Fetal Monitor</td><td>Koninklijke Philips N.V</td><td></td><td>https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/product/HC865071/avalon-fm50-fetal-monitor</td></tr><tr><td>Voluson P6&amp;nbsp;</td><td>General Electric Health Care Company</td><td></td><td>https://www.ge-sonostore.com/en/voluson/p6</td></tr></tbody></table>

external cephalic version: is it an effective and safe procedure?

External cephalic version (ECV) is an effective procedure for reducing the number of cesarean sections. To date, there is no video publication showing the methodology of this procedure. The main objective is to show how to perform ECV with a specific protocol with tocolysis before the procedure and analgesia. Moreover, we describe and analyze the factors associated with successful ECV, and also compare to deliveries in the general pregnant population.
A retrospective and descriptive analysis of ECV carried out at the Hospital Clinico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca in Murcia (Spain) between 1/1/2014 and 12/31/2018 was assessed. The latest data available of labor deliveries in the local center, which is the biggest maternity department in Spain, were from 2018.
320 patients were recruited and 3 pregnant women were lost during the study. ECV was carried out at 37&#177;3 weeks gestation. ECV was successful in 82.5% (N=264). 19 complications were reported (5.9%): 8 vaginal bleeding (2.5%), 9 fetal bradycardia (2.8%), 1 preterm rupture of membranes (0.3%) and 1 cord prolapse (0.3%). A previous vaginal delivery increases the success rate of ECV ORadjusted=3.03 (1.62-5.68). Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) affects the success of ECV ORadjusted=0.94 (0.89-0.99). Patients with BMI&#62;40 kg/m2 have an ORadjusted=0.09 (0.009-0.89) compared with those with BMI &#60;25 kg/m2. If ECV was successful, the cesarean delivery index is 22.2% (17.5-27.6%), the eutocic delivery index is 52.1% (46.1-58.1%) and the instrumented vaginal delivery index is 25.7% (20.7-31.2%). There are no differences in cesarean and eutocic delivery indexes after successful ECV. However, a successful ECV is associated with a 6.29% increase in the instrumented delivery rate (OR=1.63).
ECV is an effective procedure to reduce the number of cesarean sections for breech presentations. Maternal BMI and previous vaginal delivery are associated with ECV success. Successful ECV does not modify the usual delivery pattern.

Three hundred and twenty patients were recruited between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2018. Three patients were lost during the follow-up after the ECV because delivery was not carried out in our hospital.
Statistics were derived from the raw data. To study the differences between groups, unpaired Student&#39;s t-tests were used for quantitative variables and chi-square tests for dichotomous variables. All tests were two-tailed at a 0.05 significance level.
The ...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure? at JoVE.com

External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?

This article shows how to perform the external cephalic version (ECV) by two experienced obstetricians in the obstetric operating room in the presence of an anesthesiologist and a midwife. The ECV is carried out with analgesia and tocolysis. Two attempts are made under ultrasonography control.

External cephalic version (ECV) is an effective procedure for reducing the number of cesarean sections. To date, there is no video publication showing the ...

external-cephalic-version-is-it-an-effective-and-safe-procedure

Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

14.4K Views.  University Clinical Hospital. This article shows how to perform the external cephalic version (ECV) by two experienced obstetricians in the obstetric operating room in the presence of an anesthesiologist and a midwife. The ECV is carried out with analgesia and tocolysis. Two attempts are made under ultrasonography control.

Video: External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?

Cecal Ligation Puncture Procedure

Human sepsis is characterized by a set of systemic reactions in response to intensive and massive infection that failed to be locally contained by the host. Currently, sepsis ranks among the top ten causes of mortality in the USA intensive care units 1. During sepsis there are two established haemodynamic phases that may overlap. The initial phase (hyperdynamic) is defined as a massive production of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species by macrophages and neutrophils that affects vascular permeability (leading to hypotension), cardiac function and induces metabolic changes culminating in tissue necrosis and organ failure. Consequently, the most common cause of mortality is acute kidney injury. The second phase (hypodynamic) is an anti-inflammatory process involving altered monocyte antigen presentation, decreased lymphocyte proliferation and function and increased apoptosis. This state known as immunosuppression or immune depression sharply increases the risk of nocosomial infections and ultimately, death. The mechanisms of these pathophysiological processes are not well characterized. Because both phases of sepsis may cause irreversible and irreparable damage, it is essential to determine the immunological and physiological status of the patient. This is the main reason why many therapeutic drugs have failed. The same drug given at different stages of sepsis may be therapeutic or otherwise harmful or have no effect 2,3. To understand sepsis at various levels it is crucial to have a suitable and comprehensive animal model that reproduces the clinical course of the disease. It is important to characterize the pathophysiological mechanisms occurring during sepsis and control the model conditions for testing potential therapeutic agents. 
To study the etiology of human sepsis researchers have developed different animal models. The most widely used clinical model is cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The CLP model consists of the perforation of the cecum allowing the release of fecal material into the peritoneal cavity to generate an exacerbated immune response induced by polymicrobial infection. This model fulfills the human condition that is clinically relevant. As in humans, mice that undergo CLP with fluid resuscitation show the first (early) hyperdynamic phase that in time progresses to the second (late) hypodynamic phase. In addition, the cytokine profile is similar to that seen in human sepsis where there is increased lymphocyte apoptosis (reviewed in 4,5). Due to the multiple and overlapping mechanisms involved in sepsis, researchers need a suitable sepsis model of controlled severity in order to obtain consistent and reproducible results.

The mouse model of cecal ligation and puncture as a valuable tool for the study of human sepsis.

Human sepsis is characterized by a set of systemic reactions in response to intensive and massive infection that failed to be locally contained by the ...

Vessel-sparing Excision and Primary Anastomosis

Urethroplasty is considered to be the standard treatment for urethral strictures since it provides excellent long-term success rates. For isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures, urethroplasty by excision and primary anastomosis (EPA) is recommended. As EPA only requires the excision of the narrowed segment and the surrounding spongiofibrosis, a full-thickness transection of the corpus spongiosum, as performed in the traditional transecting EPA (tEPA), is usually unnecessary. Jordan et al. introduced the idea of a vessel-sparing approach in 2007, aiming to reduce surgical trauma, especially to the dual arterial blood supply of the urethra, and, thus, potentially reducing the risk of postoperative erectile dysfunction or glans ischemia. This approach could also be beneficial for subsequent urethral interventions such as redo urethroplasty using a free graft, in which a well-vascularized graft bed is imperative. Nevertheless, these potential benefits are only assumptions as prospective studies comparing the functional outcome of both techniques with validated questionnaires are currently lacking. Moreover, vessel-sparing EPA (vsEPA) should at least be able to provide similar surgical outcomes as tEPA. The aim of this paper is to give an elaborate, step-by-step overview of how to manage patients with isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures with vsEPA. The main objective of this manuscript is to outline the surgical technique and to report the representative surgical outcome. A total of 117 patients were managed according to the described protocol. The analysis was performed on the entire patient cohort and on the bulbar (n = 91) and posterior (n = 26) vsEPA group separately. Success rates were 93.4% and 88.5% for the bulbar and posterior vsEPA, respectively. To conclude, vsEPA, as outlined in the protocol, provides excellent success rates with low complication rates for isolated short bulbar and posterior urethral strictures.

Here, we present an elaborate and efficient protocol to treat isolated short bulbar or posterior urethral strictures with vessel-sparing excision and primary anastomosis.

Urethroplasty is considered to be the standard treatment for urethral strictures since it provides excellent long-term success rates. For isolated short ...

How to Obtain Reliable Visual Event-related Potentials in Newborns

The present study discusses the characteristics of visual event-related potentials (VEPs) and outlines methodological steps for obtaining reliable measurements in newborns. Obtaining high-quality, reliable VEPs is crucial for the early detection of abnormal development of the central nervous system in at-risk newborns, and for implementing successful early interventions. Recommendations are based on a previous study which showed that when post-conceptional age, polysomnography-identified sleep stages, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) googles as the luminous source are controlled, no more than 4 repetitions of VEP averages are required to obtain replicable recordings, variability decreases, and reliable VEPs can be obtained. By controlling for these sources of variability and using statistical analyses, we were able to clearly and reliably identify the amplitude and latency of three main components (NII, PII and NIII) present in 100% of newborns (n = 20) during active sleep. Recording VEPs during awake states, quiet sleep and transitional sleep is not recommended because VEP morphology may differ significantly from one average to the next, leading to the risk of misleading clinical prognoses. Moreover, it is easier to obtain VEPs during active sleep because this state can be clearly and reliably identified at this stage of development, sleep cycles are short enough to allow measurements to be taken in a reasonable time, and the method does not require new o expensive equipment.

Several important points for obtaining high-quality reliable visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in newborns while minimizing variability and the risk of misleading prognoses are presented.

The present study discusses the characteristics of visual event-related potentials (VEPs) and outlines methodological steps for obtaining reliable ...

Neuroscience

Vessel-Sparing Microsurgical Longitudinal Intussusception Vasoepididymostomy to Treat Epididymal Obstructive Azoospermia

The epididymis is a common site of obstruction in obstructive azoospermia (OA). Vasoepididymostomy has become an important method for the treatment of epididymal OA since 2000. There are two challenges in classic microscopic vasoepididymostomy. First, anastomosis of the vas deferens and epididymis is performed with double-needle sutures. However, there is a lack of good-quality and cost-effective double-needle sutures in China, which leads to increased difficulty and poor success rates of anastomosis. Second, the separation of the vas deferens does not retain vasculature, although the vas deferens vasculature plays an important role in the blood supply to the vas deferens, epididymis, and testis. This affects the blood supply to the anastomotic area and epididymis.
Therefore, this team has made innovative improvements to address these problems. Good-quality, cost-effective, single-needle sutures, which are easy to purchase in China and other countries, were used in microsurgical longitudinal intussusception vasoepididymostomy. This can optimize the operation procedure and shorten the operation time while ensuring the success rate of the anastomosis. The surgical method of preserving the vas deferens vessels was innovatively proposed because the etiology of epididymal OA is mostly inflammatory in China. The protection of the blood supply to the vas deferens and epididymis is maximized using microsurgical forceps to separate and protect the vasculature. Patency reached 81.7% in the postoperative follow-up, indicating a better surgical treatment effect.

The present protocol describes a vessel-sparing, longitudinal intussusception vasoepididymostomy using readily available single-needle sutures in China, a safe and effective procedure, which may improve patients' patency and natural pregnancy rates.

The epididymis is a common site of obstruction in obstructive azoospermia (OA). Vasoepididymostomy has become an important method for the treatment of ...

A Modified Vessel-Sparing Microsurgical Vasoepididymostomy

Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) is the main surgical treatment for epididymal obstruction. The vasal vessels are ligated during MVE. However, preserving the vasal vessels during MVE might better simulate the normal physiological structure and be meaningful for patients who have undergone varicocelectomy. Nevertheless, preserving the vasal vessels might elevate the risk of increasing the tension of anastomosis, affecting the patency rate and leading to delayed postoperative bleeding. Therefore, we developed a novel vessel-sparing MVE to make it safer. Here is a summary of the improvements to the procedure. 1) The retrograde dissociation of the vasal vessels on the proximal testicular side was adopted as the main method, and the anterograde dissociation of the vasal vessels on the distal testicular side was adopted as a supplement to dissociate the vasal vessels to be preserved. This improvement ensures the blood supply to the vas deferens that will be used for anastomosis and also provides longer vasal vessels, which reduces the tension of anastomosis. 2) By fixing the vas deferens to be anastomosed and the broken end of the vas deferens, the free vasal vessels get fixed, which resolves the problem of transmission of vas tension to the vasal vessels and reduces the risk of vasal vessel hemorrhage. 3) Dissociation of the vas deferens after opening the tunica vaginalis increases the mobilization of the vas deferens, which also makes the new procedure easier to complete. The evaluation of the outcomes of this new procedure showed that no significant postoperative complications occurred in the patients, and the patency rate was no different from that of the conventional procedure. Therefore, this new, improved procedure can be considered safe, with satisfactory postoperative results.

Here, we present a protocol to preserve the vasal vessels in microsurgical vasoepididymostomy. The surgical security is enhanced by preserving the vasal vessels using a retrograde-anterograde dissociation and fixing the vasal vessels.

Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) is the main surgical treatment for epididymal obstruction. The vasal vessels are ligated during MVE. However, ...

Occlusion of the Great and Small Saphenous Vein Using Copolymeric Glue Based on N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate and Methacryloxy Sulfolane

We present the preliminary results of a longitudinal observational study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and safety at different short- and long-term follow-ups of vascular occlusion of the great saphenous vein (GSV) and small saphenous vein (SSV) affected by severe pathological reflux, using an innovative modified cyanoacrylate surgical glue composed of N-butyl cyanoacrylate and methacryloxy sulfolane (NBCA+MS). Ninety patients, prospectively recruited for 1 year, underwent the study with EcoColor-Doppler (ECD) to evaluate the maximum diameters of the GSV and SSV in the orthostatic position and the reflux time (RT). An RT greater than 0.5 s was considered pathologic. Clinical, etiology, anatomy, and pathophysiology (CEAP) assessment was used for the complete evaluation of each patient in the study. All the patients were treated by NBCA+MS glue to obtain vein occlusion and observed before treatment (baseline; T0), within 6 h after treatment (T1), 1 month after treatment (T2), 3 months after treatment (T3), 6 months after treatment (T4), and 1 year after treatment (T5). Chi-square (&#967;) analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. All the patients participated in the entire duration of the study. Complete occlusion was maintained in 100% of patients at T1, 98.9% at T2 and T3, and 97.8% at T4 and T5 (p &lt; 0.001). None of the patients suffered from post-surgical thrombosis. No blue hyperpigmentation, or paresthesia was observed during the entire observation period. Immediately after treatment, 7.7% of patients needed painkillers; 1 week after treatment, 100% of patients returned to normal life. Vascular occlusion of the great or small saphenous vein using NBCA+MS glue is a safe procedure with persistent benefits after a 1 year follow-up. This procedure can be performed with local anesthesia, allowing a quick return to normal life. Thanks to its low invasiveness, the treatment is not painful.

Here, we present a protocol to treat the great saphenous vein (GSV) and the small saphenous vein (SSV) affected by severe pathological reflux, using an original sclerosing and embolizing cyanoacrylate-based glue composed of N-butyl cyanoacrylate and methacryloxy sulfolane (NBCA+MS).

We present the preliminary results of a longitudinal observational study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and safety at different short- and ...

Managing Gestational Vomiting with Ear Plaster Therapy

Ear Plaster Therapy as a Safe and Effective Treatment for Gestational Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) are common symptoms that often complicate early pregnancy for many women. While clinical treatments such as fasting, fluid infusion, and nutritional support are conventionally applied to manage NVP, their effectiveness varies. However, traditional ear plaster therapy offers a promising alternative that effectively relieves symptoms and poses no known risk to the development of embryos or fetuses. This therapy is known for its ease of application, cost-effectiveness, and favorable outcomes. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of combining ear plaster therapy with conventional treatments in alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women, surpassing the results achieved with conventional treatment alone. The protocol presented herein describes a method to relieve NVP using round, smooth, and hard cowherb seeds applied to specific ear points. These seeds are gently rubbed onto the surface of the ear, utilizing the principles of acupressure. By stimulating the designated ear points, this procedure aims to regulate the body's energy flow and restore balance, thereby reducing the severity and frequency of NVP. The application of cowherb seeds on specific ear points is a straightforward technique that healthcare professionals can easily implement or self-administered by pregnant women under appropriate guidance. Overall, ear plaster therapy presents a safe, effective, and economical approach for managing gestational vomiting, offering women a potential solution to alleviate their discomfort during pregnancy.

Author Spotlight: Alleviating Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy with Safe and Effective Auricular Acupuncture 

The presented protocol describes a traditional Chinese medicine treatment procedure known for its safety and effectiveness in managing gestational vomiting.

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) are common symptoms that often complicate early pregnancy for many women. While clinical treatments such as ...

Seminal Vesiculoscope Laser-Assisted Surgery to Treat Ejaculatory Duct Blockage

Treatment of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction by Seminal Vesiculoscopy Assisted Flow Modification

Transurethral resection of ejaculatory duct (TURED) is a primary surgical approach to treat ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) caused by the ejaculatory duct cyst. Intraoperative excision of the verumontanum is usually required to expose the ejaculatory ducts. However, preserving the verumontanum structure allows for a better simulation of normal physiological anatomy. Maintaining the verumontanum may increase the risk of postoperative distal ejaculatory duct scarring, leading to recurrent obstruction or reduced semen volume. Therefore, we attempted a novel technique that preserves the verumontanum, which is relatively easier and safer compared to TURED. The following were the procedural steps: 1. A 6F seminal vesiculoscope was introduced through the external urethral orifice to the vicinity of the verumontanum, locating the opening of the affected-side ejaculatory duct and introducing a guidewire into the cyst. This successful step preserved the verumontanum, maximizing the retention of the anti-reflux mechanism in the distal ejaculatory duct. 2. The holmium laser enlarged the affected-side ejaculatory duct opening to 5 mm, decreasing the likelihood of postoperative closure of the ejaculatory duct opening and simplifying the procedure. 3. A window was created within the cyst to access the contralateral seminal vesicle, and then a holmium laser was used to burn and dilate the opening to 5 mm, redirecting the contralateral ejaculatory duct into the cystic cavity. This modification preserved the opening of the healthy-side ejaculatory duct and provided a new outflow passage for semen, reducing the risk of decreased semen volume postoperatively. The patients experienced no complications postoperatively, had shorter hospital stays, and showed improvement in semen volume. Hence, this surgical approach is simple yet effective.

Author Spotlight: Advanced Treatment of Seminal Duct Blockage Employing Endoscopy-Mediated Semen Channel Refluviation 

This protocol introduces the clinical application of seminal vesicle endoscopy combined with holmium laser in the treatment of ejaculatory duct obstruction caused by ejaculatory duct cyst.

Transurethral resection of ejaculatory duct (TURED) is a primary surgical approach to treat ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) caused by the ejaculatory ...

Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy for the Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) is a minimally invasive spinal surgery technique increasingly employed in treating degenerative lumbar diseases, such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. In UBE, two independent yet interconnected surgical channels are established-one for the endoscope and the other for surgical instruments-providing a broad and clear surgical field of view. UBE offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including reduced tissue damage, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Additionally, it combines the benefits of microscopic surgery and interlaminar endoscopy, enhancing flexibility, accuracy, and reliability during the procedure. The learning curve for UBE is shorter than that for transforaminal endoscopy, as the surgical processes closely resemble those of conventional open surgery. Despite its favorable clinical outcomes, such as reduced blood loss and shorter hospitalization, UBE carries potential complications, including epidural hematoma, dural injury, and compression of the outlet nerve root. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to ensure appropriate patient selection, apply the correct surgical technique, and engage in careful postoperative monitoring. This article provides a detailed summary of the step-by-step surgical techniques used in UBE for treating lumbar disc herniation. It serves as a comprehensive guide to enhance practitioners' understanding of UBE. The presentation also underscores the importance of rigorous training and expertise to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Presented here is a step-by-step surgical protocol of unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE), a minimally invasive approach for treating lumbar disc herniation. By using two ports, surgical accuracy and flexibility are enhanced. This article provides a comprehensive description of UBE and highlights the practical application of this approach in clinical practice.

Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) is a minimally invasive spinal surgery technique increasingly employed in treating degenerative lumbar diseases, such ...

Electrical Stimulation Therapy: Non-Surgical Remedy for Varicocele-Induced Pain

Transcutaneous Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Treating Varicocele-Induced Scrotal Pain

Varicocele is a prevalent vascular disorder affecting the male reproductive system, leading to scrotal pain and testicular dysfunction. Epidemiological studies have shown that varicocele occurs in approximately 10% to 15% of adult males, while scrotal pain affects 2% to 10% of the population. Currently, clinical treatment options for varicocele-induced scrotal pain include general therapy, medication, and surgery. Among these, surgical intervention is considered the most effective method, boasting a success rate of 80%. However, it carries risks such as postoperative bleeding, infection, and recurrence, making it less desirable for some patients. In recent years, transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation has gained wide acceptance for treating various andrological conditions, including erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, yielding positive outcomes. This non-invasive technique offers a promising alternative for managing varicocele-induced scrotal pain, potentially reducing the need for surgical intervention and its associated risks. Its growing popularity underscores the need for further research and clinical trials to validate its efficacy and safety in treating this condition.

Author Spotlight: Advancing Varicocele Treatment with Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation

This protocol outlines the use of transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation for treating varicocele-induced scrotal pain. It compares visual analog scale (VAS) scores and imaging changes before and after treatment to assess effectiveness. Results indicate that patients experienced improved scrotal pain symptoms following the treatment.

Varicocele is a prevalent vascular disorder affecting the male reproductive system, leading to scrotal pain and testicular dysfunction. Epidemiological ...