No abstract

Introduction. Case reports have emerged with identification of Gordonia bronchialis infections including sternal wound infections and foreign bodies such as central lines and shunts.Case presentation. We present a case that demonstrates the need to consider Gordonia infection as a cause of sternal wound infection and highlights the utility of novel diagnostics to aid in the identification of unusual pathogens that can cause post-operative infections. We report here the first successful use of ceftaroline for treatment of a G. bronchialis sternal wound infection.Conclusion. There are only case reports and in vitro assays to date to guide treatment of this infection, and we now add ceftaroline as a new drug to consider, though adequate surgical debridement is paramount.

No abstract

No abstract

Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome generally affects young, active, otherwise healthy patients. The diagnosis is suspected by clinical presentation, and can be confirmed with angiography or venography. Conservative management has been associated with significant morbidity and long-term residual disability. We have used a multimodal treatment protocol that includes thrombolysis, anticoagulation, surgical decompression, and interventional procedures. Catheter-directed recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator and intravenous heparin infusion are instituted at the time of diagnosis to promote recanalization and prevent propagation of thrombus. Surgical decompression of the thoracic outlet can be readily achieved by first rib resection during the same hospitalization. Postoperative venograms are obtained in all patients. Residual stenoses can be managed with angioplasty alone in some patients but more commonly require stent placement. We believe thrombolysis, anticoagulation, surgical decompression, and percutaneous interventions act synergistically to improve results of therapy in patients with vascular thoracic outlet syndrome.