Replication of microchannel structures in WC-Co feedstock using elastomeric replica moulds by hot embossing process.

Hot embossing is a net shaping process that is able to produce the micro-components of polymers with intrinsic and complex shapes at lower cost compared with machining and injection moulding. However, the emboss of hard metals, such as WC-Co, is more challenging due to their high thermal conductivity and ease of agglomeration. Thus, a WC-Co alloy mixed with a wax-based binder feedstock was selected.

National experience with extracranial carotid artery aneurysms: epidemiology, surgical treatment strategy, and treatment outcome.

Objective: Extracranial carotid artery aneurysms (CAAs) are rare but confer risk of stroke, rupture, and local symptoms. Few cases have been reported, even from large centers, and therefore knowledge of the disease is limited. The purpose of this study was to review epidemiology, surgical treatment, and outcomes of CAAs in a nationwide setting using the Swedish National Registry for Vascular Surgery (Swedvasc).

Very urgent carotid endarterectomy confers increased procedural risk.

Background And Purpose: Current Swedish guidelines recommend that carotid endarterectomy should be performed within 14 days of a qualifying neurological event, but it is not clear if very urgent surgery after an event is associated with increased perioperative risk. The aim of this study was to determine how the time between the event and carotid endarterectomy affects the procedural risk of mortality and stroke.

Methods: We prospectively analyzed data on all patients who underwent carotid endarterectomies for symptomatic carotid stenosis between May 12, 2008, and May 31, 2011, with records in the Swedish Vascular Registry (Swedvasc).

Walking performance and health-related quality of life after surgical or endovascular invasive versus non-invasive treatment for intermittent claudication--a prospective randomised trial.

Objectives: Despite limited scientific evidence for the effectiveness of invasive treatment for intermittent claudication (IC), revascularisation procedures for IC are increasingly often performed in Sweden. This randomised controlled trial compares the outcome after 2 years of primary invasive (INV) versus primary non-invasive (NON) treatment strategies in unselected IC patients.

Materials/methods: Based on arterial duplex and clinical examination, IC patients were randomised to INV (endovascular and/or surgical, n = 100) or NON (n = 101).