Mesenteric fibromatosis mimicking a gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

Mesenteric fibromatosis is a locally aggressive tumor of the mesentery with a high propensity for bowel involvement. Mesenteric fibromatosis often mimics gastrointestinal stromal tumors in size, location and immunohistochemical features. We report the case of a 30-year-old male who underwent resection of a mesenteric tumor, initially diagnosed as gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

Midterm follow-up of penetrating ulcer and intramural hematoma of the aorta.

Objective: Most studies on variant forms of aortic dissection--penetrating ulcer and intramural hematoma--have focused on the initial presenting episode, with scant follow-up. This investigation provides midterm follow-up of penetrating ulcer and intramural hematoma to determine whether the aorta shows healing according to radiography, goes on to dilate, or tends to rupture during later follow-up.

Methods: Forty-five patients with penetrating ulcers (n = 26) or intramural hematomas (n = 19) were treated at our institution.

Alternate technique for implantation of left ventricular assist system: left thoracotomy for reoperative cases.

Reoperation for Novacor left ventricular assist device placement after prior cardiac surgery is fraught with multiple technical challenges. We have found that a thoracotomy approach obviates these dangers very favorably. The technique is performed off bypass except for apical coring and apical connection.

Yearly rupture or dissection rates for thoracic aortic aneurysms: simple prediction based on size.

Background: Prior work has clarified the cumulative, lifetime risk of rupture or dissection based on the size of thoracic aneurysms. Ability to estimate simply the yearly rate of rupture or dissection would greatly enhance clinical decision making for specific patients. Calculation of such a rate requires robust data.