CARDIOVASCULAR JOURNAL OF AFRICA: VOLUME 25, ISSUE 3, MAY/JUNE 2014
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  1. Title: From the Editor's desk
    Authors: Brink, Paul A.
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 95
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    Abstract: Alas, this is my last time writing 'From the Editor's Desk'. The CVJA has a new editor-in-chief, Prof Patrick Commerford. He succeeds Prof AJ Brink, a founder of this journal and editor-in-chief until his death in October 2012. From the July/August issue, Prof Commerford will be responsible for overseeing the processing of articles through the editorial system, sourcing original articles where necessary, writing editorials, and maintaining the high standard of the journal.
     
  2. Title: The protective effect of topical rifamycin treatment against sternal wound infection in diabetic patients undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Aygun, Fatih; Kuzgun, Ahmet; Ulucan, Seref; Keser, Ahmet; Akpek, Mahmut; Kaya, Mehmet G.
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 96-99
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-008
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-008
    Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of topical rifamycin SV treatment against sternal wound infection (SWI) in diabetic patients undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
    Methods: One hundred and fifty-nine diabetic patients who were scheduled to undergo isolated on-pump CABG surgery were included. Eight were excluded for various reasons. Of the 151 patients, 51 were on insulin therapy and 100 were on oral anti-diabetics. The risk of mediastinitis was assessed using the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2004 guideline update for CABG surgery. According to the risk scores, patients were divided into two comparable groups: the rifamycin group (n = 78) received topical rifamycin treatment after on-pump CABG surgery, and the control group (n = 73) received no topical treatment.
    Results: Deep sternal wound infection (mediastinitis) was not observed in either group (0/78 vs 0/73, p = 1.0). No superficial sternal wound infection was observed in the rifamycin group, however, it did occur in one patient in the control group (0/78 vs 1/73, p = 0.303). Wound culture was performed and coagulase-negative staphylococci were observed. The infection regressed on initiation of antibiotic therapy against isolated bacteria and the patient was discharged after a full recovery.
    Conclusion: Although the difference in rate of superficial sternal wound infection (SSWI) in the rifamycin and control groups was not statistically significant, locally applied rifamycin SV during closure of the sternum in the CABG operation may have had a protective affect against SWI.
     
  3. Title: Assessment of the efficacy of Ankaferd blood stopper on the prevention of postoperative pericardial adhesions : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Nazli, Yunus; Colak, Necmettin; Alpay, Mehmet Fatih; Haltas, Hacer; Aksoy, Omer Nuri; Akkaya, Ismail Olgun; Cakir, Omer
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 100-105
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-011
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-011
    Abstract: Objectives: Ankaferd has been used as a blood-stopping agent and it may also have an anti-inflammatory effect. We investigated the efficacy of Ankaferd in preventing postoperative pericardial adhesions in an experimental rabbit model.
    Methods: Sixteen New Zealand white rabbits were used and categorised into two groups: an Ankaferd and a control group. The Ankaferd group of rabbits was treated with a sponge impregnated with Ankaferd solution, which was applied over the abraded epicardium. A sponge impregnated with 0.9% isotonic NaCl solution was applied to the control group using the same protocol. Scores for adhesion and visibility of coronary vessels were graded by macroscopic examination, and pericardial tissues were analysed microscopically in terms of inflammation and fibrosis.
    Results: In the Ankaferd group, the adhesion scores were significantly higher than in the control group (p = 0.007).When the groups were compared according to the prevalence of fibrosis and degree of inflammation, the Ankaferd group was found to be statistically significantly different from the control group in terms of prevalence of fibrosis (p = 0.028).
    Conclusion: Topical application of Ankaferd to prevent postoperative pericardial adhesions increased adhesion and fibrosis scores.
     
  4. Title: Cardiovascular congress diary 2014
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 105
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    Abstract: Cardiovascular Congress Diary 2014.
     
  5. Title: Carbon monoxide poisoning increases Tpeak-Tend dispersion and QTc dispersion : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Eroglu, Murat; Uz, Omer; Isilak, Zafer; Yalcin, Murat; Yildirim, Ali Osman; Kardesoglu, Ejder
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 106-109
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-012
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-012
    Abstract: Objective: Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning leads to cardiac dysrhythmia. Increased heterogeneity in ventricular repolarisation on electrocardiogram (ECG) shows an increased risk of arrhythmia. A number of parameters are used to evaluate ventricular repolarisation heterogeneity on ECG. The aim of our study is to investigate the effect of acute CO poisoning on indirect parameters of ventricular repolarisation on ECG.
    Methods: Sixty-seven patients were included in this case-control study. Thirty patients with acute CO poisoning were assigned to group 1 (19 females, mean age: 30.8 ± 11.3 years). A control group was formed with patients without known cardiac disease (group 2, n = 37; 25 females, mean age: 26.0 ± 5.2 years). Twelve-lead ECG and serum electrolyte levels were recorded in all patients. Also, carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels were recorded in group 1. Tpeak-Tend (TpTe) interval, TpTe dispersion, TpTe/QT ratio, QT interval and QTd durations were measured as parameters of ventricular repolarisation. Corrected QT (QTc) and QTc dispersion (QTcd) intervals were determined with the Bazett's formula.
    Results: The mean COHb level in group 1 was 27.6 ± 7.4% and mean duration of CO exposure was 163.5 ± 110.9 min. No statistically significant difference was found in age, gender, serum electrolytes or blood pressure levels between the groups. QRS, QT, QTc, TpTe interval and TpTe/QT ratio were similar between the groups (p > 0.05). QTcd (65.7 ± 64.4 vs 42.1 ± 14.2 ms, p = 0.003) and TpTe dispersion (40.5 ± 14.8 vs 33.2 ± 4.9 ms, p = 0.006) were significantly longer in group 1 than group 2. COHb level was moderately correlated with TpTe dispersion (r = 0.29; p = 0.01).
    Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate TpTe interval and dispersion in CO poisoning. Our results showed that TpTe dispersion and QTc dispersion increased after CO poisoning.
     
  6. Title: Mean platelet volume is associated with myocardial perfusion defect in diabetic patients : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Sarikaya, Savas; Sahin, Safak; Akyol, Lutfi; Borekci, Elif; Yilmaz, Yunus Keser; Altunkas, Fatih; Karaman, Kayihan; Karacavus, Seyhan; Erbay, Ali Riza
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 110-113
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-013
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-013
    Abstract: Aim: Our aim was to evaluate whether there was a relationship between mean platelet volume and myocardial perfusion defect in diabetic patients using myocardial perfusion imaging.
    Method: Forty-four diabetic patients with myocardial perfusion defect (group 1) and 44 diabetic patients without myocardial perfusion defect (group 2), matched for age and gender, were retrospectively examined. Levels of mean platelet volume (MPV) in the two groups were assessed.
    Results: MPV was higher in group 1 than group 2 patients (8.76 ± 0.76 and 8.25 ± 0.78 fl), respectively, p = 0.003). Levels of glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, haemoglobin (Hb) and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and body mass index (BMI) in the two groups were not statistically significantly different. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that MPV was the only variable independently associated with myocardial perfusion defects (OR: 2.401, 95% CI: 1.298-4.440, p = 0.013).
    Conclusion: This study showed that higher MPV was associated with myocardial perfusion defects. Higher MPV in diabetic patients was independently related to myocardial perfusion defects and may be an indicator of myocardial ischaemia.
     
  7. Title: Is there a role for surgery in the management of isolated secundum atrial septal defect in adults? : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Bolcal, Cengiz; Arslan, Gokhan; Kadan, Murat; Doganci, Suat; Barcin, Cem; Iyisoy, Atilla; Yildirim, Vedat; Arslan, Mehmet
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 114-117
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-015
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-015
    Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the short-term outcomes of surgical versus transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) in adults.
    Methods: From January 2008 to October 2012, 229 patients aged 18 years and older with significant isolated secundum ASDs were admitted to our hospital. We focused only on objective data obtained from their medical records. We collected and compared a total of 163 patients with isolated secundum ASD, who were treated with device occlusion or surgical closure, and had no missing data. Postoperative outcomes, rhythm disturbances, residual ASD, infection rates and length of hospital stay were compared.
    Results: Complete follow-up data were available for 42 (46%) patients in the device group and for 121 (87%) in the surgery group. Complete closure was observed in 41 of the 42 patients (97.6%) in the device group (p = 0.258) and in all 121 in the surgery group (100 %) (p > 0.05). There were no mortalities. The mean length of hospital stay in the device group was 1.92 ± 0.43 days and in the surgery group 7.14 ± 0.14 days (p < 0.01).
    Conclusions: The transcatheter approach for closure of ASDs is an effective and safe treatment option when performed for certain indications. Broadening the spectrum of indications may cause some adverse events. Surgical treatment remains a good alternative for all patients with ASDs and can be performed safely in order not to increase procedure-related complications.
     
  8. Title: Cardiac preconditioning with sphingosine-1-phosphate requires activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Kelly-Laubscher, Roisin F.; King, Jonathan C.; Hacking, Damian; Somers, Sarin; Hastie, Samantha; Stewart, Tessa; Imamdin, Aqeela; Maarman, Gerald; Pedretti, Sarah; Lecour, Sandrine
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 118-123
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-016
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-016
    Abstract: Aims: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a cardioprotective agent. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT-3) is a key mediator of many cardioprotective agents. We aimed to explore whether STAT-3 is a key mediator in S1P-induced preconditioning.
    Methods: Langendorff-perfused hearts from Wistar rats and wild-type or cardiomyocyte-specific STAT-3 knockout mice were pre-treated with S1P (10 nmol/l), with or without the STAT-3 pathway inhibitor AG490, before an ischaemia-reperfusion insult. Triphenyltetrazolium chloride and Evans blue staining were used for the determination of infarct size. Western blot analysis was carried out on the S1P pre-treated hearts for detection of cytosolic, nuclear and mitochondrial phosphorylated and total STAT-3 proteins.
    Results: Pre-treatment with S1P decreased the infarct size in isolated rat (5 ± 3% vs control 26 ± 8%, p < 0.01) and wild-type mouse hearts (13 ± 1% vs control 33 ± 3%, p < 0.05). This protective effect was abolished in the rat hearts pre-treated with AG490 (30 ± 10%, p = ns vs control) and in the hearts from STAT-3 knockout mice (35 ± 4% vs control 30 ± 3%, p = ns). Levels of phosphorylated STAT-3 were significantly increased in both the nuclear (p < 0.05 vs control) and mitochondrial (p < 0.05 vs control) fractions in the S1P pre-treated hearts, but remained unchanged in the cytosolic fraction (p = ns vs control).
    Conclusion: These novel results demonstrate that pharmacological preconditioning with S1P in the isolated heart is mediated by activation of mitochondrial and nuclear STAT-3, therefore suggesting that S1P may be a novel therapeutic target to modulate mitochondrial and nuclear function in cardiovascular disease in order to protect the heart against ischaemia-reperfusion.
     
  9. Title: Comparison of quality of life in patients with peripheral arterial disease caused by atherosclerosis obliterans or Buerger's disease : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Karakoyun, Rojbin; Koksoy, Cuneyt; Sener, Zeynep; Gunduz, Umut; Karakas, Baris; Karakoyun, Mustafa
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 124-129
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-017
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-017
    Abstract: Objective: Buerger's disease and atherosclerosis obliterans (ASO) are two peripheral arterial diseases (PAD) that are frequently encountered. The aim of this study was to compare quality of life (QOL) in patients with Buerger's disease and ASO.
    Methods: We prospectively followed 86 patients who were admitted to our hospital due to ASO or Buerger's disease. Their ischaemia was evaluated according to the clinical category chronic limb ischaemia at the time of hospital admission and at six and 12 months. The QOL was measured at the time of hospital admission and at six and 12 months with the Short Form Health Status Survey (SF-36) and Vascular Quality of Life Questionnaire (VASCUQOL).
    Results: A total of 86 patients with ASO or Buerger's disease (47 and 39, respectively) were included in the study. Pain parameters from both SF-36 and VASCUQOL scores were lower in patients with Buerger's disease at the time of hospital admission and at six months. The impairment in QOL was found to be proportional to the extent of chronic limb ischaemia. Conversely, when patients with critical limb ischaemia were evaluated, no difference was observed between those with ASO or Buerger's disease in terms of QOL. Amputations were found to have a negative effect on quality of life.
    Conclusion: Buerger's disease had a more pronounced negative effect on QOL than ASO, particularly in terms of pain score. When critical limb ischaemia was considered, ASO and Buerger's disease impaired quality of life at the same rate.
     
  10. Title: Simultaneous coronary artery bypass grafting and carotid endarterectomy can be performed with low mortality rates : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Aydin, Ebuzer; Ozen, Yucel; Sarikaya, Sabit; Yukseltan, Ismail
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 130-133
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-018
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-018
    Abstract: Introduction: There is controversy over the best approach for patients with concomitant carotid and coronary artery disease. In this study, we report on our experience with simultaneous carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in our clinic in the light of data in the literature.
    Methods: Between January 1996 and January 2009, a total of 110 patients (86 males, 24 females; mean age 65.11 ± 7.81 years; range 44-85 years), who were admitted to the cardiovascular surgery clinic at our hospital, were retrospectively analysed. All patients underwent simultaneous CEA and CABG. Demographic characteristics of the patients and a history of previous myocardial infarction (MI), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, peripheral arterial disease and smoking were recorded.
    Results: One patient (0.9%) with major stroke died due to ventricular fibrillation. Peri-operative neurological complications were observed in seven patients (6%). Complications were persistent in two patients. Four patients (3%) had postoperative major stroke, whereas three patients (2%) had transient hemiparesis. No peri-operative myocardial infarction was observed.
    Conclusion: Simultaneous CEA and CABG can be performed with low rates of mortality and morbidity.
     
  11. Title: Understanding the rise in cardiovascular diseases in Africa : harmonising H3Africa genomic epidemiological teams and tools : cardiovascular topic
    Authors: Owolabi, Mayowa O.; Mensah, George A.; Kimmel, Paul L.; Adu, Dwomoa; Ramsay, Michele; Waddy, Salina P.; Ovbiagele, Bruce; Rabadan-Diehl, Cristina; Rasooly, Rebekah; Akarolo-Anthony, Sally N.; Rotimi, Charles
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 134-136
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-030
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-030
    Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases, principally ischaemic heart disease and stroke, are the leading causes of global mortality and morbidity. Together with other non-communicable diseases, they account for more than 60% of global deaths and pose major social, economic and developmental challenges worldwide. In Africa, there is now compelling evidence that the major cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors are on the rise, and so are the related fatal and non-fatal sequelae, which occur at significantly younger ages than seen in high-income countries. In order to tackle this rising burden of CVD, the H3Africa Cardiovascular Working Group will hold an inaugural workshop on 30 May 2014 in Cape Town, South Africa. The primary workshop objectives are to enhance our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of the common major CVDs in Africa and strengthen collaborations among the H3Africa teams and other researchers using novel genomic and epidemiological tools to contribute to reducing the burden of CVD on the continent.
     
  12. Title: Novel cardiovascular risk markers in women with ischaemic heart disease : review article
    Authors: Pop, Dana; Dadarlat, Alexandra; Zdrenghea, D.
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 137-141
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-014
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-014
    Abstract: The incidence of coronary heart disease in premenopausal women is lower than in men because of their hormonal protection. Angina pectoris occurs in women about 10 years later than in men. However, mortality from ischaemic heart disease remains higher in women than in men. Current studies are focusing on novel cardiovascular risk biomarkers because it seems that traditional cardiovascular risk factors and their assessment scores underestimate the risk in females. Increased plasma levels of these newly established biomarkers of risk have been found to worsen endothelial dysfunction and inflammation, both of which play a key role in the pathogenesis of microvascular angina, which is very common in women. These novel cardiovascular risk markers can be classified into three categories: inflammatory markers, markers of haemostasis, and other biomarkers.
     
  13. Title: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals launches in Zambia : industry news
    Authors:
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 142
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    Abstract: After months of planning, we are pleased to announce that AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals is now officially operational in Zambia. As a global biopharmaceutical company, AstraZeneca touches many people's lives by providing innovative medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. We are inspired and optimistic that we now find ourselves in a position where we can bring our healthcare solutions to the people of Zambia; meaningful solutions that will help us deliver on our promise of 'better health for all'
     
  14. Title: Bridging the divide at the 2014 annual SA Heart Congress : cardio news
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: 144
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    Abstract: The 15th annual SA Heart Congress will focus on bridging the divide between best practice and the challenges faced in implementing these ideals. To be held at the International Convention Centre in Durban, from 16-19 October 2014, the congress will be hosting leading international faculty as well as local experts, and for the first time a dedicated team from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). The ESC faculty will share some of the key clinical issues (hot topics) and late-breaking clinical trials from their recent 2014 congress.
     
  15. Title: Delayed embolisation of Amplatzer ASD closure device caused partial obstruction of left ventricular outflow tract : case report
    Authors: Kim, Sang-Hoon; Kim, Kyung Ho; Lim, Yeong Min; Moon, Jae-Youn; Yang, Woo-In; Kim, In Jai; Lim, Sang-Wook
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: e1-e3
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-019
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-019
    Abstract: A 54-year-old male presented with symptoms of dyspnoea, and oedema of the lower extremities. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed secondum-type atrial septal defect (ASD). He successfully received a 30-mm Amplatzer ASD closure device percutaneously. Echocardiography immediately after the procedure and the next day showed a well-positioned device. He was discharged the next day on 100 mg aspirin daily and warfarinisation due to atrial fibrillation. A month later, he revisited the hospital due to recurrence of dyspnoea and a grade 2 systolic murmur was heard on the left parasternal border. A chest X-ray showed abnormal location of the closure device and TTE revealed re-appearance of the ASD and an embolised Amplatzer device in the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) with partial obstruction. He requested surgery to remove the Amplatzer device and received an ASD patch repair, tricuspid valve repair and modified Maze operation concurrently. He is now in routine follow up without any other complications.
     
  16. Title: Emergency endovascular aortic repair of a ruptured mycotic aorto-iliac aneurysm presenting with lumbar radiculopathy : case report
    Authors: Lee, Ting-Ying; Tsai, Chien-Sung; Tsai, Yi-Ting; Lin, Chih-Yuan; Lin, Yi-Chang; Hsu, Po-Shun
    From: Cardiovascular Journal of Africa, Vol 25, Issue 3, May / June
    Published: 2014
    Pages: e4-e7
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    DOI Number: 10.5830/CVJA-2014-022
    DOI Citation Reference Link: dx.doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2014-022
    Abstract: Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm is life-threatening without immediate management. The initial clinical presentation is non-specific and impending rupture is easily missed, especially without a CT scan. We present a case of a 56-year-old man with low-back pain and left lower-extremity numbness, which was diagnosed as a herniated intervertebral disc (HIVD) with left acute sciatica syndrome. He also complained of persistent fever and abdominal discomfort. Routine blood work-up revealed leukocytosis and decreasing haemoglobin levels. CT angiography (CTA) showed impending rupture of the left aorto-iliac aneurysm. We therefore performed endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Blood culture revealed Salmonella enterica, for which he received antibiotics. No acute sciatica syndrome was present immediately after the EVAR. No EVAR-related complications were noted in the one-year CTA follow up.

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