Background A robust, accurate, and standardized approach to measurement of the aorta is critical to improve the predictive accuracy of these aortic measurements, and to investigate other aortic imaging biomarkers. Objective Developing a comprehensive and generic schema for characterization of the aorta to enable investigators to standardize data that are collected across all aorta research. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify and assess schemata of aortic measurement and description. The schemata were reported and discussed to guide the synthesis of a comprehensive schema. Results We propose the International College of Angiology Aortic Research Schema as a comprehensive design that fills the gaps left behind by previously reported schemata. It is intended to be applicable for all clinically relevant purposes, including endograft development for aneurysm repair and for the accurate characterization of the aortic anatomy. This schema divides the aorta into 14 segments and 2 sections (thoracic and abdominal aortas). The segmentation proposed can be used in addition to specific measurements taken for any aneurysm including the neck, and maximal and minimal diameters of the aneurysm.

Purpose Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a bellwether for a country's ability to care for sick newborns. We aim to review the existing literature from low-and middle-income countries in regard to management of those newborns and the possible approaches to improve their outcomes. Methods A review of the existing English literature was conducted with the aim of assessing challenges faced by providers in LMIC in terms of diagnostic, preoperative, operative and post-operative care for TEF patients. We also review the limited literature for performing thoracoscopic repair in the developing world context and suggest methods for introduction of advanced thoracoscopic procedures including techniques for providing anesthesia to these challenging babies. Results While outcomes related to technique from LMIC are comparable to the developed world, rates of secondary complications like sepsis and pneumonia are higher. In many areas, repairs are conducted in a staged fashion with minimal utilization of thoracoscopic approach. The paucity of resources creates strain on intraoperative and post-operative management. Conclusion Clearly, not all developing world contexts are ready to attempt thoracoscopic repair but we outline suggestions for assessing the existing capabilities and a stepwise gradual implementation of advanced thoracoscopy when appropriate.

Kidneys are the most frequently transplanted organ in the United States. An infrequently encountered cause of end-stage renal disease requiring permanent dialysis is prune belly syndrome. Prune belly syndrome is mostly seen in males and over a third of patients require permanent dialysis. Due to defects in abdominal wall musculature, transplantation in these patients is technically challenging. We present a novel case of a third renal transplant in a patient with prune belly syndrome with two previous failed transplants.

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