Interleukin-1 blockade in patients with pericardial constriction

Background

Recurrent pericarditis is very difficult to treat, especially when symptoms become refractory to conventional treatments (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,colchicine,corticosteroids). Interleukin-1 (IL-1) blockade with anakinra has been proved to be useful in this setting. Indeed, persistent inflammation of the pericardium may lead to pericardial constriction, worsening prognosis.

Purpose

This study was aimed to assess the incidence and clinical course of pericardial constriction in patients with corticosteroid-dependent, colchicine-resistant recurrent pericarditis (CCRP) undergoing anti IL-1 treatment.

Methods

We selected patients included in the IRAP (International Registry of Anakinra for Pericarditis). A subgroup of 39 CCRP patients enrolled at the coordinating center underwent echocardiographic and clinical assessment for pericardial constriction.

Results

Thirty-nine patients were assessed, aged 42±12 years old, 67% females, 74% idiopathic etiology, with a median disease duration of 12 months (IQR 9–20) and a recurrence rate of 2.79 flares-patient/year before starting anakinra. Echocardiographic signs of pericardial constriction were demonstrated in 8 patients (21%). After starting anakinra, in 5/8 patients (63%) a complete resolution of pericardial constriction was observed within a median of 1.2 months,IQR 1–4. In other 3/8 patients (37%) pericardial constriction persisted and became chronic, requiring pericardiectomy within a median of 2.8 months, IQR 2–5.

Compared with others, the 8 patients with pericardial constriction hadn't had a greater burden of pericardial flares before anakinra (3.87 flares-patient/year vs. 2.62/patient-year, p=0.07) and after anakinra (0.71 flares-patient/year vs. 0.72/patient-year, p=0.99). However, among 11 patients (28%) with incessant symptoms, an higher incidence of pericardial constriction was observed, compared with patients with recurrent symptoms (respectively 64% vs. 3.6%, RR=47, 95% CI 4.5–492, p<0.01).

Conclusions

In CCRP patients, pericardial constriction may be reversed by anti IL-1 agents. The risk of pericardial constriction is associated with incessant symptoms rather than simple recurrent course.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Percutaneous vs. surgical revascularization for patients with unprotected left main stenosis: a meta-analysis of 5 years follow-up RCTs

Introduction

5-year survival of patients with ULM (Unprotected Left Main) stenosis according to the choice of revascularization (percutaneous vs. surgical) remains to be defined.

Methods and results

Randomized Controlled Trials (RTCs) comparing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) vs. Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) with a follow-up of at least 5 years were included. All-cause death was the primary endpoint. MACCE (a composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction [MI], stroke and repeat revascularization) along with its single components and cardiovascular (CV) death were the secondary ones. Analyses were stratified according to use of first vs. last generation coronary stents. Subgroup comparisons were performed according to Syntax Score (below or above 33) and to age (using cutoffs of each trial's subgroup analysis). 4 RCTs with 4394 patients were identified: 2197 were treated with CABG, 657 with first generation and 1540 with last generation stents. At 5 years rates of all-cause death did not differ (OR 0.93: 0.71–1.21), as those of CV death and stroke. CABG reduced rates of MACCE (OR 0.69: 0.60–0.79), mainly driven by MI (OR 0.48: 0.36–0.65) and revascularization (OR 0.53: 0.45–0.64). Benefit of CABG for MACCE was consistent, although with different extent, across values of Syntax Score (OR 0.76: 0.59–0.97 for values <32 and OR 0.63: 0.47–0.84 for values ≥33) while was not evident for “younger” patients (OR 0.83: 0.65–1.07 vs. OR 0.65: 0.51–0.84 for “older” patients, all CI 95%).

Conclusion

For patients with ULM disease, PCI and CABG yielded same survival benefit at 5 years. CABG reduced risk of MI, revascularization and MACCE especially in older patients and in those with diffuse coronary disease.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Incidence, predictors and outcomes of Valve-in-valve (ViV) Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR): a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Surgical aortic valve replacement has been the treatment of choice for patients with aortic valve disease before the arrival of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI), although limited by degeneration of the bioprosthesis. “Redo” intervention itself is burdened by high risk of complications and valve-in-valve (ViV) TAVI could be a valid strategy of redo for patients with comorbidities. The aim of this meta-analysis is to give an overview of the state of the art of ViV TAVI in high-risk patients, analyzing efficacy, safety, intra-hospital outcomes and 1-year outcomes and assess predictors of survival at short and mid-term follow up.

Methods

Two independent reviewers screened all studies investigating patients undergoing ViV TAVI. PubMed database was searched for reports published in English according to the following highly sensitive strategy: (Transcatheter[All Fields] AND “aortic”[All Fields]) AND valve-in-valve[All Fields] AND “implantation”[All Fields] NOT (review[pt] OR editorial[pt] OR letter[pt])AND “humans”[MeSH Terms]). Mortality at 30 days and at 1 year were the primary end point, while procedural and short-term outcomes and echocardiographic parameters at hospital discharge were the secondary end points.

Results

Of 286 studies identified, 26 articles were included, with a total of 1448 patients. Median age was 78.8 years, 57.7% of the patients were male. Median STS-predicted risk of mortality was 9.4% while median Logistic EuroSCORE was 31.3%. Median age of bioprosthesis was 10 years with 84.6% of stented valves. Stenosis (45%), followed by regurgitation (31%) and mixed defects (21%) were the causes of prosthesis failure. Diameter of the degenerated valve was ≤21 mm in 25.4%, 22–25 mm in 55% and >25mm in 11.7% of the patients. Transfemoral approach was preferred (76%), with a prevalence of balloon expandable valve (73.3%). Mean post procedural gradient was 16.7±0.8 mmHg. Mean follow up was 376 days. Overall and cardiovascular mortality at 30 days was 6.5% and 5.5% respectively, while at 1 year it was 14.5% and 8.9% respectively. Regarding short-term outcomes, overall bleeding (10.4%), pacemaker implantation (9.4%) and vascular complications (8.3%) were the most common peri-procedural complications, while stroke (2.3%), myocardial infarction (2.7%) and coronary obstruction (2.8%) were less frequent. At meta-regression analysis study year (p<0.001), Logistic Euroscore (p<0.01) and valve diameter ≤21 mm (p<0.05) at 30 days, and stenosis as reason for failure (p=0.05) at 1 year were identified as possible predictors of survival.

Conclusions

Percutaneous valve-in-valve aortic valve implantation offers a valid strategy to treat high risk patients with a degenerative bioprosthesis. Short and mid-term outcomes are substantially superimposable to those of TAVI, except for coronary obstruction which appears more frequent. Future studies are needed to find predictors of long- term survival and outcomes in lower risk patients.

Outcome of VIV TAVI

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Characterisation of atmospheric pollution near an industrial site with a biogas production and combustion plant in southern Italy

Although biogas production can have some benefits, there is a research gap on potential influence of biogas plant emissions on local air quality, thus an accurate and comprehensive evaluation of impacts of this technology is needed. This study deals with this issue by means of a characterisation of air pollution near an industrial area including a biogas production (from biomass) and combustion plant located in South Italy. The methodology consists in advanced statistical analysis on concentration of gaseous pollutants, particles concentration and size distribution in number and mass, and PM_2.5 chemical composition. High-temporal resolution measurements, supported by ancillary meteorological parameters, and source apportionment of PM_2.5 using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) receptor model, are performed. The integrated approach provides the emissive picture consisting in different anthropogenic sources (i.e. traffic, biomass burning, and industrial facilities) with particular focus on biogas plant emissions. Results showed that CO and nitrogen oxides were influenced by vehicular traffic and biomass combustion, however, a contribution of the plant to NO was observed. SO₂ was influenced mainly by transport from the industrial zone, but a second local contribution compatible with the emissions of the biogas plant was detected. Number particle concentrations were analysed in four size ranges: nanoparticles (D < 0.05 μm), ultrafine particles (D < 0.3 μm), accumulation (0.3 < D < 1 μm) and coarse particles (D > 1 μm). Nanoparticles and ultrafine particles were mainly influenced by vehicular traffic and biomass burning, instead, a contribution of the plant was individuated in the accumulation mode. PMF5 identified the contribution of six sources: crustal (14.7% ± 2.1% of measured PM_2.5); marine aerosol (aged) (12.9% ± 2.3%); biomass burning (32.8% ± 1.4%); secondary sulphate (19.7% ± 2.4%); primary industrial emissions (5.4% ± 2.3%); traffic and secondary nitrate (17.0% ± 3.9%). The plant is likely to contribute to both sources, the industrial and the traffic plus secondary nitrate.

Risk factors for candidaemia in hospitalized patients with liver cirrhosis: a multicentre case-control-control study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for candidaemia in patients with liver cirrhosis.

METHODS

This was a case-control-control (1:2:2) study performed in four Italian tertiary centres from 2006 to 2015. Cases were patients with liver cirrhosis developing candidaemia. For every case of candidaemia we enrolled two additional patients undergoing blood cultures for suspected infection yielding isolation of a bacterial pathogen (control A) and two additional patients undergoing blood cultures for suspected infection yielding negative results (control B). Patients were matched according to age, sex and model for end stage liver disease at hospital admission.

RESULTS

During the study period 90 cases, 180 controls A and 180 controls B were included. At multivariate analysis assessed by means of multinomial conditional regression models, factors independently associated with candidaemia were previous (<30 days) acute-on-chronic liver failure (relative risk ratio (RRR) 2.22 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09-4.54), p = 0.046), previous(<30 days) gastrointestinal endoscopy (RRR 2.38 (95% CI 1.19-4.78) p = 0.014), previous(<30 days) antibiotic treatment for at least 7 days (RRR 2.74 (95% CI 1.00-7.48), p = 0.049), presence of central venous catheter (RRR 2.77 (95% CI 1.26-6.09, p = 0.011), total parenteral nutrition (RRR 3.90 (95% CI 1.62-9.40), p = 0.002) at infection onset and length of in-hospital stay >15 days (RRR 4.63 (95% CI 2.11-10.18), p <0.001] Conversely, rifaximin treatment was associated with lower rate of candidaemia (RRR 0.38 (95% CI 0.19-0.77), p = 0.007). Multivariable analysis for 30-day mortality showed that patients with isolation of Candida spp. from blood cultures had worse outcome when compared with controls even though the difference did not reach a statistical significance (hazard ratio 1.64 (95% 0.97-2.75) p = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified previous antibiotic use, gastrointestinal endoscopy or acute-on-chronic liver failure and presence of central venous catheter especially for parenteral nutrition as independent factors associated with candidaemia. Surprisingly, chronic rifaximin use was a protective factor.

A meta-regression of the impact of policy on the efficacy of individual placement and support

OBJECTIVE

Individual placement and support (IPS) has shown consistently better outcomes on competitive employment for patients with severe mental illness than traditional vocational rehabilitation. The evidence for efficacy originates from few countries, and generalization to different countries has been questioned. This has delayed implementation of IPS and led to requests for country-specific RCTs. This meta-analysis examines if evidence for IPS efficacy can be generalized between rather different countries.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines to identify RCTs. Overall efficacy was established by meta-analysis. The generalizability of IPS efficacy between countries was analysed by random-effects meta-regression, employing country- and date-specific contextual data obtained from the OECD and the World Bank.

RESULTS

The systematic review identified 27 RCTs. Employment rates are more than doubled in IPS compared with standard vocational rehabilitation (RR 2.07 95% CI 1.82-2.35). The efficacy of IPS was marginally moderated by strong legal protection against dismissals. It was not moderated by regulation of temporary employment, generosity of disability benefits, type of integration policies, GDP, unemployment rate or employment rate for those with low education.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence for efficacy of IPS is very strong. The efficacy of IPS can be generalized between countries.

EMG-based Indicators of Muscular Co-Activation during Gait in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular weakness is one of the main signs associated with the onset and progression of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. During motor functions, this disease also determines deviations in muscular activity, especially in terms of coordination and activation between muscles acting on the same joints. In this study, surface EMG activity of the lower limb muscles of 10 children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy at different times from disease onset were recorded along with kinematics during unconstrained gait. Muscular co-activation of muscle pairs was then evaluated by extracting different co-activation indicators, and linking them with kinematic markers of motor function. The combination of disease progression and pharmacological treatment resulted in a significant decrease in terms of co-activation indexes for two pairs of agonist-antagonist muscles, and for one of these two pairs the decrease in co-activation was correlated with a decrease in the motor function of gait.

P1412 A new light to improve the view of the anatomical details during micro-invasive trans-ventricular repair of degenerative prolapse of mitral valve

BACKGROUND

Mitral valve repair is the preferred surgical treatment for severe mitral regurgitation due to degenerative leaflet prolapse. Within the growing era of transcatheter treatments for valvular heart disease, an innovative micro-invasive trans-ventricular beating-heart procedure was developed. Three-dimensional (3D) transoesophageal echocardiographic guidance is crucial to assist the operator in instrument navigation and chords positioning. 3D ultrasound technology is constantly evolving and a special light, that can be mobilized within the 3D images, has recently been invented. This light allows to illuminate the structures from different points of view and increase the definition of the anatomical details.

PURPOSE

To show the advantages of this new 3D image analysis technology, described above, through a sequence of intra-procedural images of a mitral valve repair by trans-ventricular polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) chords implantation.

METHODS

The procedure is performed using a device that is introduced through a posterolateral ventriculotomy and it is advanced towards the mitral valve under real-time 3D transoesophageal guidance. The prolapsing segment, in this case central part of posterior leaflet (Fig. 1 A, B and C), is grasped with the jaw of the instrument (J in Fig. 1D), then the chords are implanted, tensioned and secured outside the ventricle. Figure 1A shows the pre-operative image of posterior leaflet prolapse with flail (P2 segment) and the light illuminates the valve from above. The broken chords (arrow in Fig. 1A) can be recognized with high definition. The light can also be placed on the valve plane (Fig. 1B) or below (Fig. 1C). When illumination occurs from the left ventricular side, the coaptation loss due to the P2 flail is highlighted (arrow in Fig. 1C). After placement, tensioning and securing the chords outside the ventricle, the prolapse disappears and the correct coaptation is re-established (Fig. 1E). The coaptation deficit is no longer visible, even with the light placed below the valve and it is possible to see the light coming out of the aortic valve (Ao), opened in systole, with mitral valve closed (Fig. 1F).

RESULTS

At the end of the procedure the residual mitral regurgitation was trivial and no loss of coaptation can be evidenced even with the light placed in the left ventricle (Fig. 1F).

CONCLUSIONS

This new light allows to improve the anatomical definition of 3D echocardiographic images, allows better visualization of the coaptation defects and can be used as a further verification of the result especially in cases of micro-invasive mitral repair.

Abstract P1412 Figure 1

P1375 Echocardiographic estimation of right ventricle wall tension: hemodynamic comparison and long term follow up

Introduction

Natural history of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is linked to right ventricle (RV) failure; in first phases of PH, coupling is preserved at the price of augmented RV wall tension (RVWT), which may represent an early sign of disease.

Methods

Patients with suspected PH, in absence of RV failure, underwent right heart catheterization and nearly-simultaneous echocardiography. We extrapolated RVWT from Laplace’s law as RV length × tricuspid regurgitation peak gradient (TRPG), and we correlated it with RV haemodynamic profile. Its impact on survival was tested.

Results

190 patients were enrolled; RVWT correlated with invasive measure of RV telediastolic pressure, mean pulmonary artery (PA) pressure, PA compliance, transpulmonary gradient, pulmonary vascular resistance, right atrial pressure and RV stroke work index (all p &lt; 0.001). At a mean follow-up of five years and three months, RVWT predicted all-cause mortality at univariate and multivariate analysis (p 0.036, p 0,023); tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (p 0.536), RV fractional area change (p 0.383), RV S’ (p 0.076) and TAPSE/TRPG (p 0.181) did not.

Conclusions

We identified a novel echocardiographic predictor of precocious RV impairment, able to predict all-cause mortality at a long-term follow-up.

Regression: RVWT and invasive parameters Characteristics R - R2 p value mPAP 0.742 - 0.550 &lt;0.001 PA pulsatory pressure 0.740 - 0.547 &lt;0.001 RV differential pressure 0.794 - 0.630 &lt;0.001 Mean RAP 0.326 - 0.106 &lt;0.001 CI/RAP 0.209 - 0.044 0.012 RVSWI 0.326 - 0.106 &lt;0.001 PA compliance 0.449 - .202 &lt;0.001 PVR 0.531 - 0.282 &lt;0.001 RV basal diameter 0.326 - 0.106 &lt;0.001 RV medium diameter 0.403 - 0.162 &lt;0.001 Right atrium area 0.204 - 0.042 0.013 RV FAC 0.382 - 0.146 &lt;0.001 RV telediastolic area 0.347 - 0.120 &lt;0.001 Correlation between RVWT and invasive haemodynamic parameters of RV function. mPAP, mean pulmonary artery pressure. RAP, right atrial pressure. CI, cardiac index. RVSWI, right ventricle stroke work index. PVR, pulmonary vascular resistance. RV, right ventricle. FAC, fractional area change.

Abstract P1375 Figure. RVWT and invasive hemodynamic profile

P951 Intraprocedural echocardiographic technique to locate the insertion points of artificial chordae during transventricular beating heart mitral valve repair: ultrasound ""starry sky""

BACKGROUND

Mitral valve repair is the preferred surgical treatment for severe mitral regurgitation due to degenerative leaflet prolapse. Within the growing era of transcatheter treatments for valvular heart disease, an innovative micro-invasive trans-ventricular beating-heart procedure was developed. Three-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiographic guidance is crucial to assist the operator in instrument navigation and chords positioning. Indeed, it is important an equidistant chords placement on the leaflet to ensure a uniform force distribution on the prolapsing segment and to avoid damaging of the previously inserted chords.

PURPOSE

To propose an intraoperative three-dimensional echocardiographic technique that allows operators to see the exact location of the polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) chords used for the mitral repair.

METHODS

The procedure is performed using a device that is introduced through a posterolateral ventriculotomy and it is advanced towards the mitral valve under real-time 3D transoesophageal guidance. The prolapsing segments are grasped with the jaw of the instrument and the chords are implanted to achieve the proper distribution of forces and then tensioned and secured outside the ventricle.

The proposed technique exploits the greater echogenicity of the artificial chord loop compared to native chords and leaflets. By lowering of the gains, remaining in the three-dimensional mitral valve surgical view, the signals of the native structures are attenuated, the underlying ventricular cavity appears black and the insertion points are visible as an intense signal on the virtual free edge of the leaflet treated.

Figure 1 shows the intraoperative sequence of images of a case performed at our centre. The images were acquired using real time single beat three-dimensional reconstruction. Figure 1A shows the surgical view of the native valve with prolapse of the P2-P3 scallops. Image 1B reveals the prolapsing leaflet grasping and device location. After gain lowering, it’s possible to see the intense signal of the positioned artificial chord (Figure 1C). It can also be noted how this position matches with the position of the device at the time of grasping. Image 1D shows the partial disappearance of the prolapse during the tensioning test after the positioning of a second chord in a more medial position. Figure 1E shows the correct position of the ePTFE chords. We can notice the second chord placed in a medial position from the first one. This view, with dark ventricular chamber and intense signals of chordae loops, looks like a "STARRY SKY".

RESULTS

This technique allows to locate the correct insertion points of the artificial chords during the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

This is a simple technique to guide operators during trans-ventricular beating heart mitral valve repair with ePTFE chords.

Abstract P951 Figure 1

4291Six-month outcomes from the multicenter, prospective study with the novel PASCAL transcatheter valve repair system for patients with mitral regurgitation in the CLASP study

Background

Severe mitral regurgitation may lead to an impaired prognosis if left untreated. Transcatheter treatment options have emerged as an alternative to surgery and an adjunct to medical therapy. We report the six-month results of the PASCAL transcatheter valve repair system in treating patients with mitral regurgitation enrolled in the multicenter, prospective, single arm CLASP study.

Methods

The PASCAL Transcatheter Valve Repair System is a leaflet repair therapy that uses clasps and paddles to place a woven Nitinol spacer between the native valve leaflets to fill the regurgitant orifice via a transseptal approach. Eligible patients had clinically significant MR despite optimal medical therapy and were deemed candidates for transcatheter mitral repair by the local Heart Team. Safety, performance, and clinical outcomes were prospectively assessed at baseline, discharge, 30 days, and 6 months post-procedure. All major adverse events (MAE) were adjudicated by an independent clinical events committee and echocardiographic images were assessed by a core lab. The MAE rate was the primary safety endpoint, defined as the composite of cardiovascular mortality, stroke, MI, new need for renal replacement therapy, severe bleeding, and re-intervention for study device-related complications.

Results

Between June 2017 and September 2018, 62 patients were enrolled at 14 sites worldwide for transcatheter mitral valve reconstruction using the PASCAL system. The mean age was 76.5 years (62.9% male). All patients had MR grade ≥3+, with 59% functional, 34% degenerative, and 7% mixed etiology, and 51.6% of patients were in NYHA Class III/IV. Successful implantation of the PASCAL device was achieved in 95% of patients. At discharge, 95% of patients had MR grade ≤2+ with 81% grade ≤1+. There was one cardiovascular mortality and the MAE rate was 4.8%. At 30-day follow-up, paired analyses shows that 98% of patients had MR grade ≤2+ with 81% grade ≤1+ and 88% were in NYHA Class I/II (p<0.0001). The 6MWD improved by 38.9 m (p=0.0015) and was accompanied by average improvements in KCCQ and EQ5D scores by 14.1 points (p<0.0001) and 8.3 points (p=0.0028), respectively. The six-month data will be available for presentation.

Conclusions

In this early device experience, the PASCAL transcatheter valve repair system showed an acceptable safety profile and performed as intended in treating patients with mitral regurgitation. The PASCAL device resulted in significant MR grade reduction, which was associated with clinically and statistically significant improvements in functional status, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Continued follow-up is warranted to validate these initial promising results.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Edwards Lifesciences

P2685Improving myocardial perfusion in refractory angina: extracorporeal shockwave myocardial revascularization in a monocentric cohort

Background

The incidence of patients with refractory angina (RA) is increasing. Medical therapy for RA is limited and prognosis is poor. Experimental data and small clinical studies suggest that the use of Extracorporeal shockwave myocardial revascularization (ESMR) may contribute to angiogenesis and improve symptoms in patients with RA.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of ESMR in the improvement of myocardial perfusion and symptoms in patients with RA.

Methods

Patients with RA despite optimal medical therapy and not suitable for further myocardial revascularization were enrolled and underwent ESMR. Characteristics such as angina class scores (CCS class score), nitroglycerin consumption and hospitalization rate among cases (patients with RA who received ESMR) and controls (patients with RA who did not receive ESMR) were compared at baseline and 6 months after ESMR therapy. In patients receiving ESMR the effect of on cardiac perfusion was assessed at six months.

Results

Among screened patients, 159 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. 151 patients were enrolled in the present study and 121 treated with ESMR. There were 121 patients in the treatment group and 29 patients in the control group. The mean age of the patients was 70±8.8 years in the case group and 71±5.3 years in the control group. Other characteristics were similar in both groups. After ESMR myocardial perfusion by SPECT significantly improved: mean SSS was reduced from 21.2±9.42 to 14.2±10, with a 33% relative reduction (p=0.0001). Clinical follow up of both group demonstrated a significant improvement CCS class score at six months (1.5±0.6 in treatment and 1.92±0.69 in controls; p 0.0013) a significant improvement NYHA class score (1.4±0.6 in cases and 1.73±0.59 in controls; p 0.008); also, nitroglycerin consumption (29% in case cases, and 44.8% in controls; P 0.15) and hospitalization rate were reduced in the treatment group compared to control (16% vs. 37.9%; P 0.02).

Clinical outcome of two groups at 6 months follow up Treatment group (n=121) Control group (n=29) p CCS class 1.5±0.6 1.92±0.7 <0.001 NYHA class 1.4±0.6 1.7±0.6 <0.008 Nitrates uptake 35 (29%) 13 (45%) <0.15 Admission to emergency department 20 (16%) 11 (38%) <0.02

SPECT results after 6 months follow up

Conclusion

ESMR therapy is a non-invasive safe and potentially effective new option for patients with refractory angina. This study confirms the beneficial effect of ESMR therapy on cardiac symptoms, myocardial perfusion and hospitalizations in patients with refractory angina.

P972A subgroup analysis from the RAIN-CARDIOGROUP VII study: incidence of adverse events after DAPT cessation in patients treated with ultrathin stents in ULM or coronary bifurcations

Introduction

Incidence and predictors of adverse events after dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) cessation in patients treated with ultrathin stents in unprotected left main (ULM) or coronary bifurcation remain undefined.

Methods

All consecutive patients presenting with a critical lesion of an ULM or a lesion involving a main coronary bifurcation and treated with very thin strut stents were included. MACE (a composite end point of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI), target lesion revascularization (TLR) and stent thrombosis (ST) was the primary endpoint, while target vessel revascularization (TVR) was the secondary endpoint. Moreover, type and occurrence of ST and occurrence of ST, CV death and MI during DAPT or after DAPT discontinuation were also evaluated. All analyses were performed according to length of DAPT dividing the patients in 3 groups: short DAPT (3-months), intermediate DAPT (3–12 months) and long DAPT (12-months).

Results

117 patients were discharged with an indication for DAPT≤3 months (median 1:1–2.5), 200 for DAPT between 3 and 12 months (median 8:7–10) and 1958 with 12 months DAPT. After 12.8 months (8–20), MACE was significantly higher in the 3-month group compared to 3–12 and 12-month groups (9.4% vs. 4.0% vs. 7.2%, p≤0.001), mainly driven by MI (4.4% vs. 1.5% vs. 3%, p≤0.001) and overall ST (4.3% vs. 1.5% vs. 1.8%, p≤0.001). ST post DAPT cessation were comparable (1.7% vs. 0% vs. 0.7%, p=0.42) with a median time to ST post DAPT discontinuation of 1.67 months (0.48–4.7). At multivariate analysis, DAPT of 12-months compared to 3-months reduces the risk of overall ST (OR 0.103: 0.019–0.0563, 95% CI) while only a trend was noted for DAPT between 3 and 12 months (OR 0.61: 0.186–2.005, 95% CI). When analysed by stent strategy a 2-stent strategy predicted ST post DAPT cessation (OR 3.241: 1.048–10.026, 95% CI), which was reduced by use of FKB (OR 0.101:0.01–0.872, 95% CI).

Conclusion

Even stents with very thin strut when implanted in real-life ULM or coronary bifurcation patients discharged with short DAPT have a relevant risk of ST, which remains high although not significant after DAPT cessation. The correct identification before PCI of the more fragile patients who may receive a shorter DAPT regimen could help identify the safest PCI technique: provisional stenting and use of final kissing balloon (FKB) are the safest options.

P2552Triple vs. double antithrombotic therapy in patients needing oral anticoagulation undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a meta-analysis

Background

The optimal antithrombotic therapy strategy in patients undergoing PCI who need OAC is currently debated.

Purpose

To determine the best regimen in terms of safety and efficacy.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis of RCT and adjusted results reporting outcomes of patients who underwent PCI and were on TT or DAPT or DT. All-cause death was the primary end point, while MACE was the secondary outcome, along with its individual components, and major bleedings.

Results

15 studies encompassing 27070 patients were included. After a follow up of 12 (11–14) months, TT reduced all-cause death compared to DAPT (OR 0.52, 0.35–0.78), mainly driven by a lower incidence of MI (OR 0.81, 0.69–0.85) and stroke (OR 0.76, 0.56–1.03) despite higher rates of major bleedings (OR 2.81, 1.54–5.12). Comparing TT vs. DT with warfarin, all-cause death was non-significantly different (OR 1.23, 0.60–2.53), nor MI (OR 0.77, 0.23–2.59) and stroke (OR 4.01, 0.80–20.07), while major bleeding was increased with TT (OR 2.40, 1.34–4.38). When compared to DT with NOACs, TT did not reduce risk of MI (OR 0.96, 0.67–1.36) or stroke (OR 0.82, 0.55–1.24), but increased major bleedings (OR 1.98, 1.43–2.73). The non-randomized comparison between DT with warfarin and DT with NOACs showed a neutral effect on death and major bleedings, with similar rates also of MI (OR 0.47, 0.20–1.11, all CI 95%).

Conclusion

Double therapy with warfarin or with NOAC plus a single antiplatelet agent reduces the risk of major bleeding compared to triple therapy, with a neutral impact of subsequent ischemic events.

P2820Contemporary indications, dual antiplatelet therapy strategies and clinical outcomes for a polymer-free biolimus A9-coated stent: the all-comers FREEDOM registry

Background

The absence of a polymer-coat along with fast drug absorption represent the benchmark counterpart of the favourable clinical profile of a new polymer-free biolimus A9-eluting stent (PF-BES), also when used with a very short dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) strategy. Its current use in the real-world setting has not been thoroughly assessed.

Purpose

We evaluated contemporary patterns of indications, DAPT strategies and outcomes for the PF-BES.

Methods

FREEDOM is a multicenter registry including all patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with at least one PF-BES at 10 italian sites. Reasons for PF-BES PCI and planned antithrombotic regimen at discharge were collected. Primary outcomes were the 390-day Kaplan Meier estimates of a patient-oriented composite endpoint (POCE: death, any myocardial infarction [MI] or any target vessel revascularization [TVR]) and of a device-oriented composite endpoint (DOCE: cardiac death, target vessel-MI or ischemia-driven target lesion revascularization [ID-TLR]). The independent outcomes predictors were assessed through multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis.

Results

Between January 2016 and July 2018, 858 patients (age: 74±10 years, 64.6% males, 58.7% acute coronary syndrome presentation) underwent PF-BES PCI. Main reasons for PF-BES physician's choice were advanced age (26.0%), oral anticoagulation (OAT) to be continued after PCI (25.3%), operator preference for PF-BES (9.9%), planned major surgery (8.6%), cancer (8.6%), anemia (7.9%) and recent bleeding (7.0%). Overall, the operator choice to implant a PF-BES reflected a perceived high bleeding risk in 77.7% of patients. At discharge, 99.2% of patients were on DAPT, 19.5% on triple therapy, and 0.8% on single antiplatelet therapy plus OAT. Planned DAPT duration was 1-month in 40.3% of patients, with 33.8% of these being on triple therapy. At 390-day follow-up (median 340 days, interquartile range: 187–390 days) the incident estimate of POCE was 13.1% (any MI 3.7%, any TVR 3.4%) and of DOCE was 7.1% (TV-MI 3.6%, ID-TLR 1.4%); while 390-day estimate of any bleeding event was 11.1% (BARC 3–5 bleeding 3.0%). Independent predictors of 390-day POCE were eGFR≤60 ml/min (HR 1.81; 95% CI 1.09–3.04, p=0.028), a history of cancer (HR 2.62; 95% CI 1.43–4.81, p=0.002) and severely calcified lesion/s (HR 2.05; 95% CI 1.09–3.85, p=0.025). Independent predictors of DOCE were a previous MI (HR 2.06; 95% CI 1.03–4.15, p=0.041), a history of cancer (HR 2.69; 95% CI 1.18–6.13, p=0.019) and bifurcation lesion/s (HR 2.66; 95% CI 1.38–5.13, p=0.004).

Conclusions

In a large, contemporary all-comers registry, the main reasons for PF-BES use reflected in most cases the operator-perceived high bleeding risk of the patient. Following PF-BES PCI, a very-short DAPT strategy was frequently implemented. The outcomes observed in this registry suggest a favorable safety and efficacy profile for the PF-BES in a real-world clinical setting.

P6409Ticagrelor and prasugrel versus clopidogrel in patients with acute coronary syndromes and chronic renal dysfunction: safety and efficacy

Introduction

Safety and efficacy of prasugrel and ticagrelor in real-life ACS (Acute Coronary Syndrome) with renal dysfunction remain to be established.

Methods

Consecutive patients from RENAMI and BLEEMACS were stratified according to renal function and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Myocardial infarction (MI) and BARC major bleedings (MB; BARC type 3 or 5) were the primary end-point. Independent impact of clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor were evaluated with Cox multivariate analysis.

Results

19255 patients were enrolled (mean eGFR: 90±39 ml/min/1.73m2). Patients with eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2, constituted the 12.9% of the population (2490 pts). After a mean follow up of 13±5 months, the global incidence of re-AMI was of 5.8% and 2.9% in patients with and in those without eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2 (p<0.0001) respectively. MB occurred in 5.7% and 3% (p<0.0001). At Cox multivariate analysis, clopidogrel compared to prasugrel and ticagrelor was associated with increased risk of MI both in those with eGFR>60 mL/min/1.73m2 (HR=3.3: 2.4–4.4, p<0.0001) as well as in patients with eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2 (HR=10.04: 3.1–32.3, p<0.0001). In contrast, both prasugrel (HR=0.07: 0.01–0.54, p=0.01) and Ticagrelor (HR=0.36: 0.16–0.81, p=0.01) were associated with decreased risk of MI in the latters. DAPT with ticagrelor or prasugrel did not increased risk of MB in patients with eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2, while in patients with eGFR>60 mL/min/1.73m2, ticagrelor was associated to a slightly higher risk of MB (HR=1.43: 1.09–1.89, p=0.009).

Conclusion

In ACS patients with eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2, prasugrel and ticagrelor are associated with lower risk of recurrent MI without significant increase in the risk of MB.

P1789Outcomes of different approaches for severe aortic stenosis: “"The Deferred-TAVI”, a multicentre study investigating medical and percutaneous therapy in the era of TAVI

Background

In the era of TAVI, also very high surgical risk patients can be treated and the importance of the Heart Team is to address the patient to the right therapy. In some cases due to comorbidities, lack of symptoms and patients' decision not always a final decision is achieved after the first clinical evaluation and the final strategy could be deferred for months.

Purpose

The study aims to analyze outcomes in patients with severe aortic stenosis differently treated according to the various approaches proposed by the Heart Team.

Methods

All the patients with a diagnosis of severe aortic stenosis considered at high and very high surgical risk were enrolled. Three international cardiology departments participated in this multicentre study. All the patients were divided into four groups according to the Heart Team decision of approach. Patients with indication to medical therapy only (DTO Drug therapy only), Patients first deferred from heart team decision, personal reasons or lack of symptoms and then addressed to medical therapy (D-DTO Deferred-Drug therapy only), Patients deferred and then addressed to TAVI within 3 months (D-TP Deferred TAVI Procedure), Patients with direct indication to TAVI (ITP Immediate TAVI procedure). Primary endpoint were overall survive at follow up comparing the differences between the four groups and the impact of the deferred strategy.

Results

795 patients were enrolled (80 DTO, 451 ITP, 264 initially deferred and then 155 D-DTO and 109 D-TP). Median follow-up was 465 days. Overall survive of the four groups at 1 year was 74% DTO, 73% D-DTO, 77% D-TP and 78% ITP, at 2 years 62% DTO, 38% D-DTO, 62% D-TP and 68% ITP, at 3 years 39% DTO, 11% D-DTO, 25% D-TP and 56% ITP (p≤0,001 at log rank test). At the multivariate analysis, compared to the referral group DTO, D-DTO was associated with higher mortality (HR=1,90; IC [95%]: 1,05–3,58; p=0,03 at 2 years; HR 1,66; IC [95%]: 1,01–2,76; p<0,05, at 3 years), while D-TP was not associated with lower mortality risk (HR 1,31 IC [95%]: 0,62–2,76; p=0,72 at 2 years, HR 1,37 IC [95%]: 0,77–2,44; p=0,77 at 3 years). ITP was associated with lower mortality risk only at 3 years (HR 0,60; IC [95%]: 0,42–0,99; p<0.05). Comparing the group deferred (D-DTO and D-TP) to the group not deferred (DTO and ITP), the deferred group was associated with higher mortality risk (HR 1,86; IC [95%]: 1,30–2.65; p=0,001 at 2 years, HR 2,21; IC [95%]: 1,61–3,05; p<0,001 at 3 years).

Conclusions

The Heart team decision on the approach of treatment strongly influence the survive of the patient. Compared to direct medical therapy, there is a higher risk of mortality for patients initially deferred and then treated with medical therapy and there is no survival benefit for patients initially deferred and then treated with TAVI. The choice of deferring the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis clearly decrease long term survive at follow up regardless the strategy of the approach.

P2690Safety and effectiveness of thin-strut DES for bifurcated coronary lesions not involving left main: a RAIN (veRy thin stents for patients with left mAIn or bifurcatioN in real life) sub-analysis

Background

Thinner stent struts of new DES (drug eluting stent) are associated with shorter time of reendothelialization, a reduction of shear stress and inflammation of coronary walls. Despite this great innovations their clinical safety and efficacy in challenging scenarios as non left main bifurcation coronary lesions has not been tested.

Methods

RAIN is a multicenter registry enrolling patients treated on bifurcated coronary lesions and left main with thin-strut DES. Baseline characteristics and procedural data were recorded. Target lesion revascularization (TLR) was the primary endpoint, whereas major adverse clinical events (MACE; composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel revascularization (TVR), TLR and stent thrombosis (ST)) along with its single components were the secondary endpoints. A multivariate analysis to identify predictors of TLR and sub-analysis according to stenting strategy (provisional vs 2-stent technique), use of final kissing balloon (FKB) and IVUS/OCT optimization were performed.

Results

Data from 1803 patients (59% ACS, 61% stable CAD) treated on bifurcations were retrospectively evaluated. Follow up was available for 1685 (94%) patients for a median of 12 months (IQR 7–18). TLR occurred globally in 2.5% of cases (2.2% in provisional stenting, 3.5% in 2-stent technique). The rate of MACE was 9.4%, whereas all-cause death and MI, occurred in 4.1% and 3.2% of cases respectively. TVR and definite ST incidence were 3.7% and 1.1%. At multivariate analysis, chronic kidney disease (CKD) negatively influenced the main endpoint (HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.06–3.6, p=0.03), whereas post-dilatation (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.3–0.93, p=0.04) and provisional stenting resulted being protective factors. FKB reduced TLR occurrence at FU only in 2-stent technique (p=0.03), whereas intracoronary imaging (performed in 29% of patients) were uninfluential.

Conclusion

Very thin-strut DES represents a highly effective solution in bifurcation lesions. The risk of TLR is reduced by post-dilatation and provisional stenting. FKB is recommended in 2-stent technique, whereas further studies are required to address the impact of intracoronary imaging in this setting.

The impact of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae colonization on infection risk after liver transplantation: a prospective observational cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of colonization with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) on the CPE infection risk after liver transplantation (LT).

METHODS

Prospective cohort study of all adult patients undergoing LT at our centre over an 8-year period (2010-2017). Individuals were screened for CPE colonization by rectal swabs at inclusion onto the waiting list, immediately before LT and weekly after LT until hospital discharge. Asymptomatic carriers did not receive decolonization, anti-CPE prophylaxis or pre-emptive antibiotic therapy. Participants were followed up for 1 year after LT.

RESULTS

We analysed 553 individuals who underwent a first LT, 38 were colonized with CPE at LT and 104 acquired colonization after LT. CPE colonization rates at LT and acquired after LT increased significantly over the study period: incidence rate ratios (IRR) 1.21 (95% CI 1.05-1.39) and 1.17 (95% CI 1.07-1.27), respectively. Overall, 57 patients developed CPE infection within a median of 31 (interquartile range 11-115) days after LT, with an incidence of 3.05 cases per 10 000 LT-recipient-days and a non-significant increase over the study period (IRR 1.11, 95% CI 0.98-1.26). In multivariable analysis, CPE colonization at LT (hazard ratio (HR) 18.50, 95% CI 6.76-50.54) and CPE colonization acquired after LT (HR 16.89, 95% CI 6.95-41.00) were the strongest risk factors for CPE infection, along with combined transplant (HR 2.60, 95% CI 1.20-5.59), higher Model for End-Stage Liver Disease at the time of LT (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00-1.07), prolonged mechanical ventilation (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.48-4.67), re-intervention (HR 2.16, 95% CI 1.21-3.84) and rejection (HR 2.81, 95% CI 1.52-5.21).

CONCLUSIONS

CPE colonization at LT or acquired after LT were the strongest predictors of CPE infection. Prevention strategies focused on LT candidates and recipients colonized with CPE should be investigated.