Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement: State of the art

Computed Tomography-Derived Normative Values of Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Structures in the Pediatric Population

Recent advances in available percutaneous device technology require accurate measurements and quantification of relationships between right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) structures in children with and without congenital heart disease to determine device suitability. To date, no population study has described normal reference ranges of these measurements by computed tomography (CT). We aimed to establish normative values for four CT-derived measurements between RVOT structures from a heterogeneous population without heart disease and develop z scores useful for clinical practice. Patients without heart disease who underwent cardiac CT between April 2014 and February 2021 at Children's Hospital Colorado were included. Distance between the right ventricular (RV) apex to pulmonary valve (PV), PV to pulmonary trunk bifurcation, and bifurcation to the right and left pulmonary artery was measured. Previously validated models were used to normalize the measurements and calculate Z scores. Each measurement was plotted against BSA and Z scores distributions were used as reference lines. Three-hundred and sixty-four healthy patients with a mean age of 8.8 years (range 1-21), 58% male, and BSA of 1 m2 (range 0.4-2.1) were analyzed. The Haycock formula was used to present data as predicted values for a given BSA and within equations relating each measurement to BSA. Predicted values and Z-score boundaries for all measurements are presented.We report CT-derived normative data for four measurements between RVOT structures from a heterogeneous cohort of healthy children. Knowledge of this normative data will be useful in both determining device fit and customizing future devices to accommodate the diverse pediatric size range.

The Interventional Imager: How Do We Train the Next Interventional Imagers?

With the increase in structural heart procedural volume, interventional imagers are required. Multiple imaging modalities exist to guide these procedures. With comprehensive understanding of pathology, anatomy, and procedures, an advanced imager plays an important role in the heart team. Imaging training is part of general cardiology fellowship. Current structures do not provide adequate procedural time to fill the role. Interested graduates pursue advanced training by either focusing on echocardiography and procedural imaging or multidetector computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance. This yields individuals with different expertise.

Over-expansion of right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits during transcatheter pulmonary valve placement

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and feasibility of over-expansion of right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits during transcatheter pulmonary valve placement.

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter pulmonary valve placement is an alternative to surgical pulmonary valve replacement. Traditionally, it was thought to be unsafe to expand a conduit to >110% of its original size.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study from two centers includes patients with right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits with attempted transcatheter pulmonary valve placement from 2010 to 2017. Demographic, procedural, echocardiographic and follow-up data, and complications were evaluated in control and overdilation (to >110% original conduit size) groups.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-two patients (51 overdilation and 121 control) had attempted transcatheter pulmonary valve placement (98% successful). The overdilation group was younger (11.2 versus 16.7 years, p < 0.001) with smaller conduits (15 versus 22 mm, p < 0.001); however, the final valve size was not significantly different (19.7 versus 20.2 mm, p = 0.2). Baseline peak echocardiographic gradient was no different (51.8 versus 55.6 mmHg, p = 0.3). Procedural complications were more frequent in overdilation (18%) than control (7%) groups (most successfully addressed during the procedure). One patient from each group required urgent surgical intervention, with no procedural mortality. Follow-up echocardiographic peak gradients were similar (24.1 versus 26 mmHg, p = 0.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Over-expansion of right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits during transcatheter pulmonary valve placement can be performed successfully. Procedural complications are more frequent with conduit overdilation, but there was no difference in the rate of life-threatening complications. There was no difference in valve function at most recent follow-up, and no difference in rate of reintervention. The long-term outcomes of transcatheter pulmonary valve placement with conduit over-expansion requires further study.

Ventricular arrhythmias following balloon-expandable transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement in the native right ventricular outflow tract

BACKGROUND

Ventricular arrhythmia incidence in children and adolescents undergoing transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) within the native right ventricular outflow tract (nRVOT) is unknown. We sought to describe the incidence, severity, and duration of ventricular arrhythmias and identify associated risk factors in this population.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 78 patients <21 years of age who underwent TPVR within the nRVOT. Patients were excluded for pre-existing ventricular arrhythmia or antiarrhythmic use. Study variables included surgical history, valve replacement indication, valve type/size, and ventricular arrhythmia. Univariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with ventricular arrhythmias, followed by subset analyses.

RESULTS

Nonsustained ventricular arrhythmia occurred in 26/78 patients (33.3%). The median age at the procedure was 10.3 years (interquartle range [IQR]: 6.5, 12.8). Compared with other nRVOT types, surgical repair with transannular patch was protective against ventricular arrhythmia incidence: odds ratio (OR): 0.35 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.13-0.95). Patient weight, valve type/size, number of prestents, and degree of stent extension into the RVOT were not associated with ventricular arrhythmia occurrence. Beta blocker was started in 16/26 (61.5%) patients with ventricular arrhythmia. One additional patient was lost to follow-up. The median beta blocker duration was 46 days (IQR 42, 102). Beta blocker was discontinued in 10 patients by 8-week follow-up and in the remaining four by 9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Though common after balloon-expandable TPVR within the nRVOT, ventricular arrhythmias were benign and transient. Antiarrhythmic medications were successfully discontinued in the majority at 6- to 8-week follow-up, and in all patients by 20 months.

First experiences with Myval Transcatheter Heart Valve System in the treatment of severe pulmonary regurgitation in native right ventricular outflow tract and conduit dysfunction

The rate of morbidity and mortality related to pulmonary regurgitation and pulmonary stenosis are big concerns after the surgery for CHD. Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation has been established as a less invasive technique compared to surgery with promising results according to long-term follow-up of the patients. There are only two approved valve options for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation until now, which are Melody (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minn, USA) and Sapien (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, Ca, USA). Both valves have limitations and do not cover entire patient population. Therefore, the cardiologists need more options to improve outcomes with fewer complications in a such promising area. Herein, we present a case series applying for pulmonary position in conduits and native right ventricular outflow tract of a new transcatheter valve system Myval ® which is designed for transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures. This is the first patient series in which the use of Myvalv in dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts is described, after surgical repair of CHD.

The Clinical Trial Outcomes of Med-Zenith PT-Valve in the Treatment of Patients With Severe Pulmonary Regurgitation

Objective

Nearly 2/3 of patients with dilated right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) were excluded from pulmonary valves transplantation due to the lack of size-matched valves. Here, we explored the safety and efficacy of the Med-Zenith PT-Valve for the treatment of patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation.

Methods

22 Patients with severe PR (grade 3+,4+) were enrolled based on the anatomical features of native RVOT and the valve design. The immediate, 3-months and 1-year post-procedural follow-up data were analyzed.

Results

The baseline mean systolic diameters in the distal main pulmonary artery (MPA), MPA sinus junction, MPA sinus, pulmonary annulus, RVOT aneurysm and muscular outlet measured with computed tomography were 33.6 ± 6.1, 34.0 ± 5.8, 37.9 ± 6.0, 32.4 ± 7.3, 41.9 ± 9.3, and 34.4 ± 8.0 mm, respectively. The PT-Valve landing zone was set within these levels. Successful valve implantations were achieved in all patients without noticeable device malposition, coronary artery compression, pulmonary branch obstruction or paravalvular leak during follow-ups. Post-procedural pulmonary artery diastolic pressure increased from 5.8 ± 3.1 to 11.3 ± 2.5 mmHg. In the 3-month and 1-year follow-up, the right ventricular end diastolic volume index reduced from the baseline 181.6 ± 29.0 to 143.7 ± 29.7 ml/m² and 123.4 ± 31.2 ml/m², and the trans-pulmonary valve gradient decreased from 25.6 ± 22.2 to 10.64 ± 3.54 mmHg and 11.16 ± 3.0 mmHg, respectively. The 6-min walk distance increased from 416.6 ± 97.9 to 455.9 ± 64.6 m and 467.8 ± 61.2 m, respectively.

Conclusion

This clinical trial revealed favorable outcomes for the safety, efficacy and feasibility of the Med-Zenith PT-Valve in the treatment of severe PR with significantly enlarged RVOT.

Transcatheter Device Therapy and the Integration of Advanced Imaging in Congenital Heart Disease

Transcatheter device intervention is now offered as first line therapy for many congenital heart defects (CHD) which were traditionally treated with cardiac surgery. While off-label use of devices is common and appropriate, a growing number of devices are now specifically designed and approved for use in CHD. Advanced imaging is now an integral part of interventional procedures including pre-procedure planning, intra-procedural guidance, and post-procedure monitoring. There is robust societal and industrial support for research and development of CHD-specific devices, and the regulatory framework at the national and international level is patient friendly. It is against this backdrop that we review transcatheter implantable devices for CHD, the role and integration of advanced imaging, and explore the current regulatory framework for device approval.

A Hybrid Strategy for Geometrical Reshaping of the Main Pulmonary Artery and Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement has become an attractive alternative to surgical approach in patients with dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tract. However, in certain cases, an unfavorable anatomy might complicate optimal valve deployment and stability. Several techniques have been described to reshape the landing zone and allow proper implantation of the transcatheter valve. Among them, the hybrid approach has gained attention as an interesting method for off-pump pulmonary valve replacement in patients with dilated right ventricular outflow tract. But to date, there is no standardized method to resize and reshape the landing zone for the stented valve. Here, we describe a reproducible method based on simple geometric rules to allow adequate remodeling of the main pulmonary artery to the desired dimensions in a single attempt, followed by perventricular implantation of a Venus P-valve.

Current and Future Application of Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement

Mitral valve anatomy is complex, and one size does not fit all. More recently, percutaneous mitral valve interventions have revolutionized the management of primary and secondary mitral regurgitation (MR). However, edge-to-edge leaflet repair is not suitable for a large proportion of individuals including those with a failing bioprosthetic mitral valve/annuloplasty ring, and patients with significant mitral annular calcification resulting in mixed mitral valve disease/mitral stenosis. For this high risk cohort, transcatheter mitral valve replacement seems to be an attractive alternative.

Rationale and feasibility of transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation in small conduits with the Edwards Sapien valves

BACKGROUND

Conduit dilatation above 110% and TPVI in conduits <16 mm is not recommended. However, if we want to reach normal values for RVOT diameters and diminish reintervention rates, pushing these boundaries is essential.

METHODS

Analysis of subsequent patients who underwent TPVI with Edwards Sapien valves in conduits ≤16 mm between 2010 and 2020.

RESULTS

In n = 33 cases median age was 13 years (5-20 y) and median weight 47 kg (15-91 kg). Preexisting RVOT grafts were n = 28 Contegra® conduits and n = 5 homografts (12 mm n = 15; 14 mm n = 11; 16 mm n = 7). Implanted were the Sapien (n = 8), Sapien XT (n = 10) and Sapien 3 valve (n = 15) with 20 mm (n = 4), 23 mm (n = 19), 26 mm (n = 9) and 29 mm (n = 1). Mean minimal RVOT diameter after TPVI was 22,7 ± 2,3 mm (18-30 mm) which is 150% of the mean minimal RVOT diameter before TPVI (15,1 ± 4,3 mm). Covered stents were used in n = 10 cases. Contained conduit rupture occurred in n = 7 cases (21%). Residual RVOT gradients of 5,7 ± 4,9 mmHg (0-18 mmHg) showed adequate RV unloading.

CONCLUSION

TPVI could be performed successfully in all patients. Dilatation above 150% and a valve/conduit diameter ratio up to 2,4 were well tolerated. There was a considerable amount of conduit rupture but all were confined without further need for intervention or surgery.

Early clinical experience with the straight design of Venus P-valve™ in dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts

OBJECTIVES

To assess the initial procedural and short to medium-term experience with the straight design of the Venus P-valve™ (Venus MedTech, Hangzhou, China) in dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOT).

BACKGROUND

The Melody™ valve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota) has been the only percutaneous valve option for smaller RVOT conduits. The straight Venus P-valve™ may provide an alternative to the Melody™ valve.

METHODS

Retrospective data collection of patient characteristics, procedural data, clinical and imaging follow-up of the straight Venus P-valve™.

RESULTS

Nine patients (four female) with a mean age of 23.1 ± 7.5 years and a mean weight of 72.7 ± 29.4 kg underwent straight Venus P-valve™ implantation between 03/2014 and 06/2016. All patients had right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery conduits which were pre-stented before the valve implantation. All valves were deployed successfully without any significant procedural complications. During the mean follow-up of 24 ± 9.1 months, there were no valve related re-interventions or deterioration in valve performance. There was one case of insignificant, single wire frame fracture and no cases of endocarditis. The cohort demonstrated a reduction in pulmonary regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation, which was sustained throughout the follow-up. Similarly the gradient across the RVOT tract did not significantly increase.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of the straight Venus P-valve™ has provided satisfactory short to mid-term results with high success rates and no complications and may be considered as an alternative option in patients with RVOT dysfunction.

Implantation of the Edwards SAPIEN XT and SAPIEN 3 valves for pulmonary position in enlarged native right ventricular outflow tract

OBJECTIVE

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) into right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery conduits is increasingly being performed, but a few options are available for patients with a dilated native right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), among which is the off-label use of Ed-wards SAPIEN® valves. This study reviews the results of the SAPIEN XT and SAPIEN 3 (S3) valve implantations in the pulmonary position in patients with a dilated native RVOT.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and March 2020, PPVI procedures were performed on 129 patients. Among them, 103 (80%) had dilated native RVOT, 86 of whom were eligible for PPVI prestenting and valve implantation. Retrospective analysis was performed on 84 patients who have undergone successful PPVI implantation using the SAPIEN XT or S3 valves with dilated native RVOT.

RESULTS

The procedural success rate was 84/86 (98%). The median age was 18.7 years (8-46 years), and the median weight was 57 kg (22-102 kg). The primary underlying diagnosis was tetralogy of Fallot (n=77/84). Stenting was performed simultaneously with valve implantation in 50/84 (60%) cases-six of which were hybrid procedures-whereas prestenting was performed 3 to 14 weeks earlier in 34/84 cases. Before valve im-plantation, the median right anterior oblique and lateral diameters of the stents were 26 mm (20-32 mm) and 28 mm (21-32 mm). Valve sizes were 26 mm (n=13) and 29 mm (n=64) for XT and 29 mm (n=7) for S3. In 59 patients, an additional 1-5 ml (median 2 ml) volume was added to the valves' balloons for stabilization. In all hybrid procedures, the stent and valve were implanted in the same session. During follow-ups of 1 to 59 months (median 14 months), no deaths were reported, 3 patients developed tricuspid regurgitation secondary to the procedure, and valves continued to function in all patients.

CONCLUSION

The Edwards SAPIEN XT and S3 valves may be an alternative to PPVI in patients with dilated native RVOT.

Cardiac Arrest Secondary to Traumatic Aortopulmonary Window During Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Implantation in Supported Ross

We present a patient with a supported Ross procedure and severe pulmonary homograft stenosis who developed cardiac arrest while undergoing transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement and was found to have a large iatrogenic aortopulmonary window. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated followed by covered stent placement, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support, and ultimately emergent surgery with a good outcome. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.)

Echocardiographic guidance of interventions in adults with congenital heart defects

Cardiac catheterization procedures have revolutionized the treatment of adults with congenital heart disease over the past six decades. Patients who previously would have required open heart surgery for various conditions can now undergo percutaneous cardiac catheter-based procedures to close intracardiac shunts, relieve obstructive valvular lesions, stent stenotic vessels, or even replace and repair dysfunctional valves. As the complexity of percutaneous cardiac catheterization procedures has increased, so has the use of echocardiography for interventional guidance in adults with congenital heart disease. Transthoracic, transesophageal, intracardiac, and three-dimensional echocardiography have all become part and parcel of the catheterization laboratory experience. In this review, we aim to describe the different echocardiographic techniques and their role in various cardiac catheterization interventions specific to adults with congenital heart disease.

Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) with right ventricle outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction need sequential pulmonary valve replacements throughout their life in the majority of cases. Since their introduction in 2000, the number of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantations (PPVI) has grown and reached over 10,000 procedures worldwide. Overall, PPVI has been proven safe and effective, but some anatomical variations can limit procedural success. This review discusses the current status and future perspectives of the procedure.

Pulmonary Valve Regurgitation: Neither Interventional Nor Surgery Fits All

Introduction: PV implantation is indicated for severe PV regurgitation after surgery for congenital heart defects, but debates accompany the following issues: timing of PV implantation; choice of the approach, percutaneous interventional vs. surgical PV implantation, and choice of the most suitable valve. Timing of pulmonary valve implantation: The presence of symptoms is class I evidence indication for PV implantation. In asymptomatic patients indication is agreed for any of the following criteria: PV regurgitation > 20%, indexed end-diastolic right ventricular volume > 120-150 ml/m2 BSA, and indexed end-systolic right ventricular volume > 80-90 ml/m2 BSA. Choice of the approach: percutaneous interventional vs. surgical: The choice of the approach depends upon the morphology and the size of the right ventricular outflow tract, the morphology and the size of the pulmonary arteries, the presence of residual intra-cardiac defects and the presence of extremely dilated right ventricle. Choice of the most suitable valve for surgical implantation: Biological valves are first choice in most of the reported studies. A relatively large size of the biological prosthesis presents the advantage of avoiding a right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, and also of allowing for future percutaneous valve-in-valve implantation. Alternatively, biological valved conduits can be implanted between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery, particularly when a reconstruction of the main pulmonary artery and/or its branches is required. Hybrid options: combination of interventional and surgical: Many progresses extended the implantation of a PV with combined hybrid interventional and surgical approaches. Major efforts have been made to overcome the current limits of percutaneous PV implantation, namely the excessive size of a dilated right ventricular outflow tract and the absence of a cylindrical geometry of the right ventricular outflow tract as a suitable landing for a percutaneous PV implantation. Conclusion: Despite tremendous progress obtained with modern technologies, and the endless fantasy of researchers trying to explore new forms of treatment, it is too early to say that either the interventional or the surgical approach to implant a PV can fit all patients with good long-term results.

Impact of additional tricuspid valve annuloplasty in TOF patients undergoing pulmonary valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Many patients with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) who underwent surgical correction of their congenital cardiac malformation during infancy develop right ventricular dysfunction and exercise intolerance in the long term. The right ventricle (RV) dilates due to the development of severe pulmonary regurgitation (and secondary tricuspid insufficiency). To reduce RV dilation and improve exercise tolerance pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) is the common therapeutic strategy. Whether concomitant tricuspid valve repair (TVR) is beneficial in these pure volume-overload conditions is still unknown.

METHODS

Twenty-eight adults who received surgical PVR were included in the study and perioperative data including operative records, postoperative course and echocardiography before and after surgery was analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Mean age of the patients was 41.1±13.5 years and PVR with Carpentier Edwards Perimount bioprostheses was performed 32.0±9.5 years after initial cardiac surgery. Preoperative echocardiography revealed moderate RV dilation in 60.7% of the patients and severe pulmonary valve regurgitation in 82.3%. Ten patients underwent additional TVR. Indication was purely based on annular dilation (>40 mm), independent from the degree of tricuspid insufficiency. Periprocedural data of both groups did not differ significantly. However, ICU stay was significantly increased in patients who underwent additional TVR (P=0.0420) and these patients developed more complications (P=0.0407) while postoperative echography showed the same recovery of the RV function and diameters, independent of concomitant TVR.

CONCLUSIONS

In grown-ups with congenital heart disease surgical PVR with or without TVR is a safe procedure with good short-term outcomes. As the RV remodels after volume reduction, indication for concomitant TVR should be restrictive.

Bilateral branch pulmonary artery valve implantation in repaired tetralogy of fallot

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter, bilateral branch pulmonary artery (PA) valve implantation is a novel treatment for patients with severe pulmonary insufficiency and oversized right ventricle (RV) outflow tract. There is scarce data on efficacy and safety of this approach.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 8 patients with repaired tetralogy of fallot (TOF) who underwent bilateral branch PA valve implantation. Demographics, echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and axial imaging data were reviewed. Variables were compared by a paired sample t-test.

RESULTS

All patients were adult sized (weight 43-99 kg) with oversized RV outflow tract not suitable for conventional transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation. Staged bare metal PA stenting followed by valve implantation (interval 3-5 months) was technically successful in 7 patients with one stent embolization. In another patient, proximal stent migration prevented placement of bilateral pulmonary valve stents. There were a total of 14 valved branch PA stents placed (Melody valve n = 9, Sapien XT n = 2, Sapien 3 n = 3). In the 7 patients undergoing successful branch pulmonary valve placement, at median follow up of 10 months (range 3 months to 6 years), 13 (93%) valves had none/trivial insufficiency on echocardiography. Prevalve and postvalve implantation cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in five patients showed significant reduction of indexed RV end-diastolic volume (152 ± 27 to 105 ± 15 mL/m² , P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Transcatheter, bilateral branch PA valve implantation was technically feasible with satisfactory efficacy and safety in patients with repaired TOF, severe pulmonary insufficiency, and oversized RV outflow tracts. Elimination of pulmonary insufficiency with this method resulted in reduced RV end-diastolic volume. This approach can be offered as an alternative to surgery, particularly in patients considered high risk for standard surgical placement and who are not candidates for the newer self-expanding valve prosthesis for placement in RV outflow tracts larger than 30 mm diameter.

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation: will it replace surgical pulmonary valve replacement?

INTRODUCTION

Right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction is a common hemodynamic challenge for adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD), including patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), truncus arteriosus (TA), and those who have undergone the Ross procedure for congenital aortic stenosis and the Rastelli repair for transposition of great vessels. Pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) has become one of the most common procedures performed for ACHD patients. Areas covered: Given the advances in transcatheter technology, we conducted a detailed review of the available studies addressing the indications for PVR, historical background, evolving technology, procedural aspects, and the future direction, with an emphasis on ACHD patients. Expert commentary: Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) is widely accepted as an alternative to surgery to address RVOT dysfunction. However, current technology may not be able to adequately address a subset of patients with complex RVOT morphology. As the technology continues to evolve, new percutaneous valves will allow practitioners to apply the transcatheter approach in such patients. We expect that with the advancement in transcatheter technology, novel devices will be added to the TPVI armamentarium, making the transcatheter approach a feasible alternative for the majority of patients with RVOT dysfunction in the near future.

Is mesocardia with left-sided caval vein draining to coronary sinus a contraindication for a percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation? A case description

Introduction Although the right jugular vein approach for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation is well described, there are no reports that describe a percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation through a left superior caval vein to coronary sinus pathway. Case A 14-year-old female with tetralogy of Fallot, mesocardia, left superior caval vein draining into the coronary sinus, and hemiazygos continuation of the inferior caval vein underwent ventricular septal defect closure, with homograft insertion from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery, patch augmentation of the left pulmonary artery, and creation of an atrial communication. Thereafter followed numerous catheterisations and interventions with stent implantation for stenosis of the left pulmonary artery and the homograft, as did device closure of the atrial communication. When she was a 12-year-old, the indications for a percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation were fulfilled and she underwent implantation of a 22 mm Melody® valve through the left superior caval vein. The extra-stiff exchange wire was pre-formed into a "U-spiral"-type configuration, according to the underlying anatomy, in order to provide a smooth route for the delivery of stents, to create the landing zone, and for the implantation of the Melody "ensemble". The procedure was performed under deep sedation according to our standard protocol. The duration of the procedure was 172 min and the radiation time was 24.9 min.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of this unique experience, percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation is safe and feasible even in patients with unusual anatomy. Crucial is the "U-spiral" shaped configuration of the guide wire.

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in grown-up congenital heart disease patients: Insights from the Zurich experience

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to assess indications, procedural success, complications, echocardiographic, and clinical outcomes of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).

BACKGROUND

PPVI offers a non-surgical treatment option for failing prosthetic conduits in pulmonary position. However, efficacy and clinical outcomes after PPVI are still underreported.

METHODS

From January 2008 to March 2016, 25 adult CHD patients with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) stenosis and/or pulmonary regurgitation underwent PPVI in our institution. Clinical and echocardiographic data was collected at baseline, at 12 months of follow-up and yearly afterwards.

RESULTS

Tetralogy of Fallot and repaired pulmonary atresia were among the most prevalent underlying congenital defects. Twenty-one (84%) received a Medtronic Melody® and four (16%) patients an Edwards Sapien valve prosthesis. The PPVI procedure was successful in all 25 patients. Pre-stenting was performed in all but two (8%) patients. PPVI reduced peak-to-peak pulmonary valve gradient from 43 (IQR 28-60) mmHg to 16 (IQR 14-22) mmHg (P < 0.001). Periprocedural complications occurred in two (8%) patients (tricuspid valve damage, pulmonary artery perforation). Over a median follow-up of 43 (IQR 18-58) months all patients were alive. Only two (8%) required re-operation and two (8%) developed stent fractures (one of them had not undergone pre-stenting). NYHA functional class improved significantly, with 20 (80%) patients in NYHA class I on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

PPVI with Medtronic Melody or Edwards Sapien valve conduits is safe and provides effective relief from right ventricular outflow tract obstruction or pulmonary regurgitation.

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in small conduits: A multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

Guidelines allow percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in conduits above 16mm diameter. Balloon dilatation of a conduit to a diameter>110% of the original implant size is also not recommended. We analyzed patients undergoing PPVI in such conditions.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Nine patients (May 2008-July 2016) from 8 institutions underwent PPVI in conduits <16mm diameter. Five patients with 16-18mm conduit diameter underwent PPVI after over-expansion of the conduit>110%. Mean age and weight of the 14 patients was 12.1 (7.7 to 16) years and 44.9 (19 to 83) kg. Median conduit diameter at PPVI was 12 (10 to 17) mm. Median systolic right ventricular pressure was 70 (40 to 94) mmHg. Procedure was successful in all cases. A confined conduit rupture occurred in 7 patients (50%) and was treated with covered stent in 6. One patient experienced dislocation of 2 pulmonary artery stents that were parked distally. The post-implantation median systolic right ventricular pressure was 36 (28 to 51) mmHg. A fistula between right-ventricle outflow and aorta was found in one patient, secondary to undiagnosed conduit rupture. This was closed surgically. After a median follow-up of 20.16 (6.95 to 103.61) months, all the patients are asymptomatic with no significant RVOT stenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

PPVI is feasible in small conduits but rate of ruptures is high. Although such ruptures remain contained and can be managed with covered stents in our experience, careful selection of patients and high level of expertise are necessary. More studies are needed to better assess the risk of PPVI in this population.

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation: valve technology and procedural outcome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Procedural technique and short-term outcomes of transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) have been widely described. The purpose of this article is to provide an update on current valve technology, and to focus on recent data surrounding TPVI in the dilated right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), hybrid interventions, significant outcomes, and procedural costs.

RECENT FINDINGS

Transcatheter valve technology has expanded with current trials evaluating self-expandable valves that can be implanted in dilated RVOTs. Until those valves are widely available, hybrid techniques have been shown to offer a potential alternative in these patients, as well as in patients of small size. Although medium-term results of TPVI have shown 5-year freedom from reintervention or replacement of 76%, new data have underlined some concerns relating to bacterial endocarditis after the procedure. Procedural costs remain a concern, but vary greatly between institutions and healthcare systems.

SUMMARY

TPVI has emerged as one of the most innovative procedures in the treatment of patients with dysfunctional RVOT and pulmonary valves. Further device development is likely to expand the procedure to patients of smaller size and with complex, dilated RVOTs.

Trifecta St. Jude medical® aortic valve in pulmonary position

Introduction: To evaluate an aortic pericardial valve for pulmonary valve (PV) regurgitation after repair of congenital heart defects.

Methods: From July 2012 to June 2016 71 patients, mean age 24 ± 13 years (four to years) underwent PV implantation of aortic pericardial valve, mean interval after previous repair = 21 ± 10 years (two to 47 years). Previous surgery at mean age 3.2 ± 7.2 years (one day to 49 years): tetralogy of Fallot repair in 83% (59/71), pulmonary valvotomy in 11% (8/71), relief of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction in 6% (4/71). Pre-operative echocardiography and MRI showed severe PV regurgitation in 97% (69/71), moderate in 3% (2/71) with associated RVOT obstruction. MRI and knowledge-based reconstruction 3D volumetry (KBR-3D-volumetry) showed mean PV regurgitation = 42 ± 9% (20–58%), mean indexed RV end-diastolic volume = 169 ± 33 (130–265) ml m^–2 BSA and mean ejection fraction (EF) = 46 ± 8% (33–61%). Cardio-pulmonary exercise showed mean peak O₂/uptake = 24 ± 8 ml kg^–1 min^–1 (14–45 ml kg^–1 min^–1), predicted max O₂/uptake 66 ± 17% (26–97%). Pre-operative NYHA class was I in 17% (12/71) patients, II in 70% (50/71) and III in 13% (9/71).

Results: Mean cardio-pulmonary bypass duration was 95 ± 30ʹ (38–190ʹ), mean aortic cross-clamp in 23% (16/71) 46 ± 31ʹ (8–95ʹ), with 77% (55/71) implantations without aortic cross-clamp. Size of implanted PV: 21 mm in seven patients, 23 mm in 33, 25 mm in 23, and 27 mm in eight. The z-score of the implanted PV was −0.16 ± 0.80 (−1.6 to 2.5), effective orifice area indexed (for BSA) of native PV was 1.5 ± 0.2 (1.2 to –2.1) vs. implanted PV 1.2 ± 0.3 (0.76 to –2.5) (p = ns). In 76% (54/71) patients surgical RV modelling was associated. Mean duration of mechanical ventilation was 6 ± 5 h (0–26 h), mean ICU stay 21 ± 11 h (12–64 h), mean hospital stay 6 ± 3 days (three to 19 days). In mean follow-up = 25 ± 14 months (six to 53 months) there were no early/late deaths, no need for cardiac intervention/re-operation, no valve-related complications, thrombosis or endocarditis. Last echocardiography showed absent PV regurgitation in 87.3% (62/71) patients, trivial/mild degree in 11.3% (8/71), moderate degree in 1.45% (1/71), mean max peak velocity through RVOT 1.6 ± 0.4 (1.0–2.4) m s^–1. Mean indexed RV end-diastolic volume at MRI/KBR-3D-volumetry was 96 ± 20 (63–151) ml m^–2 BSA, lower than pre-operatively (p < 0.001), and mean EF = 55 ± 4% (49–61%), higher than pre-operatively (p < 0.05). Almost all patients (99% = 70/71) remain in NYHA class I, 1.45% = 1/71 in class II.

Conclusion: (a) Aortic pericardial valve is implantable in PV position with an easy and reproducible surgical technique; (b) valve size adequate for patient BSA can be implanted with simultaneous RV remodelling; (c) medium-term outcomes are good with maintained PV function, RV dimensions significantly reduced and EF significantly improved; (d) adequate valve size will allow later percutaneous valve-in-valve implantation.

Popular Hybrid Congenital Heart Procedures without Cardiopulmonary Bypass

As surgical and catheter interventions advance, patients with congenital heart disease are now offered alternative treatment options that cater to their individual needs. Furthermore, collaboration between interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons have led to the development of hybrid procedures, using the best techniques of each respective field to treat these complex cardiac entities from initial treatment in the pediatric patient to repeat intervention in the adult. We present a review of the increased popularity and trend in hybrid procedures in congenital heart disease without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.

Hybrid Surgery Options for Complex Clinical Scenarios in Adult Patients with Congenital Heart Disease: Three Case Reports

The strategy for the management of adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) often represents a challenge for cardiac surgeons and cardiologists due to complex anatomy, wide range of clinical presentations, and a high-risk profile. However, hybrid approach may represent an attractive solution. We report three cases of adult patients previously operated for CHD and recently treated with a hybrid approach in our institution. Case 1: a 76-year-old woman with permanent atrial fibrillation, lung disease, chronic kidney disease, microcytic anemia, and type II diabetes mellitus, previously operated for atrial septal defect closure and pulmonary valvotomy, presented with severe pulmonary regurgitation and advanced right ventricular failure. In order to minimize the surgical risk, a hybrid approach was used: an extensive right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) plication was followed by implantation of an Edwards Sapien XT prosthesis in the RVOT through the right ventricular apex, without cardiopulmonary bypass. Case 2: a 64-year-old man with previous atrial septum excision and pericardial baffle for partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage with intact interatrial septum, presented with worsening dyspnea, right ventricular failure, and pulmonary hypertension caused by baffle stenosis. His comorbidities included coronary artery disease, atrial flutter, and previous left pneumonectomy. After performing a redo longitudinal median sternotomy, a 20-mm stent was implanted in the baffle with access through the superior vena cava. Case 3: a 50-year-old man, with previous atrioventricular septal defect repair, followed by mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis, subsequently developed a paravalvular leak (PVL) with severe mitral regurgitation and severe left ventricular dysfunction. He underwent a transapical PVL device closure with two Amplatzer Vascular Plugs. In our opinion, hybrid surgery is a promising therapeutic modality that increases the available treatment options for this patient population. A multidisciplinary and patient-tailored approach is crucial in these complex clinical scenarios.

Dysfunctional pulmonary artery conduit and co-existing large pseudoaneurysm: well-suited for a percutaneous approach with the Melody valve?

Pseudoaneurysm formation is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication after surgical repair of congenital heart disease. We present a boy with truncus arteriosus communis 14 years after homograft placement in pulmonary position. On follow-up, he presented progressive chronic homograft degeneration. Moreover, a large pseudoaneurysm in the right ventricular outflow tract was surprisingly depicted. We opted for a two-stage interventional approach.

Percutaneous management of failed bioprosthetic pulmonary valves in patients with congenital heart defects

AIMS

We reviewed our center experience in the field of transcatheter pulmonary valve-in-valve implantation (TPViV), that is emerging as a treatment option for patients with pulmonary bioprosthetic valve (BPV) dysfunction.

METHODS

Between April 2008 and September 2015, a total of six patients with congenital heart disease (four men) underwent TPViV due to stenosis of preexisting BPV. Four patients received a Melody Medtronic Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve and two an Edward Sapien Valve.

RESULTS

No procedural-related complications occurred. After valve implantation, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP, 80.5 ± 25.3-41.2 ± 8.35 mmHg, P < 0.05), right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient (55.3 ± 23.4-10.6 ± 3.8 mmHg, P < 0.05), and RVSP-to-aortic pressure (0.75 ± 0.21-0.38 ± 0.21, P = 0.01) fell significantly. Echocardiograms at follow-up revealed a significant reduction in estimated RVSP (88.7 ± 22-21.7 ± 4.7 mmHg, P < 0.05), in RVOT (76.2 ± 17.9-25.7 ± 6.1 mmHg, P = 0.005), and in mean RVOT (40.7 ± 9.9-15.5 ± 4.8 mmHg, P < 0.05) gradients. Cardiac magnetic resonance showed no significant change in biventricular dimensions and function. Symptomatic patients reported improvement of symptoms, although cardiopulmonary exercise did not show any significant differences.

CONCLUSION

TPViV is an effective and well tolerated treatment for BPV dysfunction, improving freedom from surgical reintervention. Long-term studies will redefine the management of dysfunctional RVOT, either native or surrogate.

What Interventional Cardiologists Are Still Leaving to the Surgeons?

Nowadays, development of new technologies is still ongoing with the ultimate goal of maximizing treatment outcomes with less invasiveness and reduced procedural risk. This review is intended to update on when interventionalists need surgical support in common or emerging problems in congenital heart disease.