Biological or mechanical prostheses in tricuspid position? a meta-analysis of intra-institutional results

Feasibility of intentional bioprosthetic valve fracture in the tricuspid position

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve (ViV) replacement has yielded good hemodynamic outcomes in the treatment of dysfunctional bioprosthetic valves (BPVs). Intentional fracture of certain rigid BPV frames, if feasible, allows a larger implanted valve when compared with implant into an unfractured BPV. There remains limited data on the feasibility of tricuspid valve frame fracture.

AIMS

Evaluate the feasibility of transcatheter tricuspid ViV replatement with fracture of the underlying BPV ring.

METHODS

An international multicenter registry of tricuspid ViV replacement with intentional tricuspid valve frame fracture was created. Demographic data along with procedural characteristics, outcomes, and follow-up data were collected. Comparison was made to the pre- and post-ViV replacement with fracture of the tricuspid valve frame conditions.

RESULTS

Ten patients from six centers were included with a median age and weight of 29 years and 67.3 kg respectively. Tricuspid valve frame fracture was performed using a median balloon diameter 3 mm (IQR 3-5) larger than the true inner diameter (ID). The final ID was a mean of 1.5 mm (95% CI: 0.35, 2.64: p < 0.05), and median 1.1 mm (0.5, 2.1) larger than the reported true ID of the surgical BPV after ViV replacement. The mean tricuspid inflow gradient by echocardiogram decreased by 6.65 mmHg (95% CI: 4.14, 9.15: p < 0.001). All procedures were without complication, specifically there was no heart block, pericardial effusion, or right coronary disruption.

CONCLUSION

Intentional tricuspid valve frame fracture with tricuspid ViV replacement is feasible and can increase the valve orifice potentially reducing the risk of ViV patient prosthesis mismatch and is not associated with significant complications.

Early and long-term outcomes of bioprosthetic versus mechanical tricuspid valve replacement: A nationwide population-based study

OBJECTIVES

We compared early and long-term clinical outcomes of bioprosthetic versus mechanical tricuspid valve replacement in a nationwide study based on the database from the National Health Insurance Service.

METHODS

Of 1425 patients who underwent tricuspid valve replacement from 2003 to 2018, 1241 patients were enrolled after excluding retricuspid valve replacement, complex congenital heart disease, Ebstein anomaly, and age less than 18 years at operation. Bioprostheses (group B) and mechanical prostheses (group M) were used in 562 patients (45.3%) and 679 patients (54.7%), respectively. The median follow-up duration was 5.6 years. Propensity score matching was performed. Subgroup analysis was performed in patients aged 50 to 65 years.

RESULTS

There was no difference in operative mortality or postoperative complications between the groups. All-cause mortality was higher in group B (7.8 vs 4.6 per 100 patient-years, hazard ratio, 1.75, 95% confidence interval, 1.33-2.30, P < .001). The cumulative incidence of stroke was higher in group M (hazard ratio, 0.65, 95% confidence interval, 0.43-0.99, P = .043), whereas the cumulative incidence of reoperation was higher in group B (hazard ratio, 4.20, 95% confidence interval, 1.53-11.54, P = .005). In terms of the age-dependent hazard of all-cause mortality, group B demonstrated a higher hazard than group M below the age of 75 years, and it was statistically significant between 54 and 65 years of age. In the subgroup analysis, all-cause mortality was also higher in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanical tricuspid valve replacement demonstrated higher long-term survival than bioprosthetic tricuspid valve replacement. In particular, mechanical tricuspid valve replacement showed significantly higher overall survival between 54 and 65 years of age.

Tricuspid valve repair and replacement for infective endocarditis

Infective endocarditis represents a challenging and life-threatening clinical condition affecting native and prosthetic heart valves, endocardium, and implanted cardiac devices. Right-sided infective endocarditis account for approximately 5-10% of all infective endocarditis and are often associated with intravenous drug use, intracardiac devices, central venous catheters, and congenital heart disease. The tricuspid valve is involved in 90% of right-side infective endocarditis. The primary treatment of tricuspid valve infective endocarditis is based on long-term intravenous antibiotics. When surgery is required, different interventions have been proposed, ranging from valvectomy to various types of valve repair to complete replacement of the valve. Percutaneous removal of vegetations using the AngioVac system has also been proposed in these patients. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the current surgical options and to discuss the results of the different surgical strategies in patients with tricuspid valve infective endocarditis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12055-023-01650-0.

Prosthesis choice for tricuspid valve replacement: Comparison of clinical and echocardiographic outcomes

OBJECTIVES

There is limited evidence evaluating valve function and right heart remodeling after tricuspid valve replacement (TVR), as well as whether the choice of prosthesis has an impact on these outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed 1043 consecutive adult patients who underwent first-time TVR; 33% had previous aortic and/or mitral valve operations. Severe tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) was the indication for surgery in 94% patients. A mechanical valve was used in 149 (14%) patients and a bioprosthetic valve in 894 (86%). Concomitant major cardiac procedures were performed in 57% of patients.

RESULTS

The median age of the cohort was 68.8 (range, 25-94) years, and 57% were female. Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was 50% and 31%, respectively. Adjusted survival and cumulative incidence of reoperation after TVR were similar in patients with bioprosthetic and mechanical valves. Overall, right ventricular (RV) function and dilation improved postoperatively with the estimated proportion of patients with moderate or greater RV systolic dysfunction/dilatation decreasing by around 20% at 3 years follow-up. After adjusting for preoperative degree of dysfunction/dilatation, valve type had no effect on late improvement in RV function and dilation. Bioprosthetic TVR was associated with greater rates of recurrence of moderate or greater TR over late follow-up. Overall, a slight decline in tricuspid valve gradients was observed over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanical and bioprosthetic valves provide comparable survival, incidence of reoperation, and recovery of RV systolic function and size after TVR. Bioprosthetic valves develop significant TR over time, and mechanical valves may have an advantage for younger patients and those needing anticoagulation.

Guidelines for the Evaluation of Prosthetic Valve Function With Cardiovascular Imaging: A Report From the American Society of Echocardiography Developed in Collaboration With the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance and the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography

In patients with significant cardiac valvular disease, intervention with either valve repair or valve replacement may be inevitable. Although valve repair is frequently performed, especially for mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, valve replacement remains common, particularly in adults. Diagnostic methods are often needed to assess the function of the prosthesis. Echocardiography is the first-line method for noninvasive evaluation of prosthetic valve function. The transthoracic approach is complemented with two-dimensional and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography for further refinement of valve morphology and function when needed. More recently, advances in computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance have enhanced their roles in evaluating valvular heart disease. This document offers a review of the echocardiographic techniques used and provides recommendations and general guidelines for evaluation of prosthetic valve function on the basis of the scientific literature and consensus of a panel of experts. This guideline discusses the role of advanced imaging with transesophageal echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance in evaluating prosthetic valve structure, function, and regurgitation. It replaces the 2009 American Society of Echocardiography guideline on prosthetic valves and complements the 2019 guideline on the evaluation of valvular regurgitation after percutaneous valve repair or replacement.

Long-Term Outcomes of Bioprosthetic and Mechanical Tricuspid Valve Replacement after Left-Sided Valves Surgery

PURPOSE

This study aimed to show the outcomes of isolated tricuspid valve replacement (ITVR) after left-sided valve surgery (LSVS).

METHODS

Patients who underwent ITVR after LSVS were divided into bioprosthetic tricuspid valve (BTV) and mechanical tricuspid valve (MTV) groups. Clinical data were collected and analyzed between groups.

RESULTS

101 patients were divided into BTV (n = 46) and MTV (n = 55) groups. The mean ages of the BTV and MTV groups were 63.4 ± 8.9 and 52.4 ± 7.6 years, respectively (P <0.01). There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality (BTV 10.9% vs. MTV 5.5%), early postoperative complications, and long-term tricuspid valve (TV)-related adverse events between these two groups. New-onset renal insufficiency was an independent risk factor for early mortality. Survival rates in the BTV group were 94.8% ± 3.6%, 86.5% ± 6.5%, and 54.2% ± 17.6% and in the MTV group were 96.0% ± 2.8%, 79.0% ± 7.4%, and 59.4% ± 14.8% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively (P = 0.826).

CONCLUSION

The TV prosthesis selection in ITVR after LSVS seems to not affect 30-day mortality and early postoperative complications. Long-term survival and the occurrence of TV-related events were also comparable between these two groups.

Comparison of valvuloplasty and replacement for surgical treatment of tricuspid infective endocarditis

BACKGROUND

Owing to the increase in both intravenous drug injections and intracardiac and vascular interventional treatments among drug users, the incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) involving the tricuspid valve, which sits between the two right heart chambers, has gradually increased. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of different surgical procedures for tricuspid infective endocarditis (TIE).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed fifty-six patients who underwent tricuspid valve surgery at our hospital from January 2006 to August 2019. All patients were diagnosed with TIE and indicated a need for surgery. Perioperative and follow-up data were collected to summarize and analyze the clinical outcomes of different surgical approaches, including tricuspid valvuloplasty (TVP) and tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) for TIE.

RESULTS

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross-clamp (ACC) time, postoperative mechanical ventilation time, and intensive care unit (ICU) stay time were shorter in the TVP group than in the TVR group. Additionally, the incidence of red blood cell transfusion and postoperative complications was lower in the TVP group than in the TVR group. The postoperative 30-day mortality rates were similar between both the groups. Fifty-two patients were followed up for an average of 5.50 ± 3.79 years. The postoperative 3-, 5-, and 7-year survival rates were 100%, 100%, and 95.5% in the TVP group and 96.7%, 96.7%, and 96.7% in the TVR group, respectively. The 5-year and 10-year reoperation rates were 0% and 0% in the TVP group and 6.7% and 20% in the TVR group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Both TVR and TVP for TIE significantly improved the functional status of the heart with satisfactory efficacy. TVP was found to be superior to TVR in reducing the need for postoperative blood transfusions, reducing the risk of postoperative complications, and reducing the need for long-term reoperations.

Tricuspid valve replacement: The old and the new

Tricuspid regurgitation is a frequent and serious condition but tricuspid valve (TV) surgery, that may be a valve replacement when a repair is not feasible, is rarely performed. Recent development of transcatheter TV interventions offers new options for those high-surgical risk patients, especially TV replacement for patients who are not eligible for transcatheter TV repair. In this review, we describe indications and outcome after surgical TV replacement, and devices available or in development for transcatheter TV replacement.

Dealing with the epidemic of endocarditis in people who inject drugs

North America is facing an opioid epidemic and growing illicit drug supply, contributing to growing numbers of injection drug use-related infective endocarditis (IDU-IE). Patients with IDU-IE have high early and late mortality. Patients with IDU-IE more commonly present with right-sided IE compared to those with non-IDU-IE and a majority are a result of S. aureus. While most patients can be successfully managed with intravenous antibiotic treatment, surgery is often required in part related to high relapse rates, potential treatment biases, and more aggressive pathophysiology in some. Multidisciplinary management as endocarditis teams, including not only cardiologists and cardiac surgeons but also infectious disease specialists, drug addiction experts, social workers, neurologists and/or neurosurgeons, is essential to best manage substance use disorder and facilitate safe discharge to home and society. Structural and population-level interventions, such as harm reduction programs, are necessary to reduce IDU-IE relapse rates in the community and other IDU-related health concerns such as overdoses. In this review, we describe the pathophysiological, clinical, surgical, social, and ethical characteristics of IDU-IE and the management thereof. We present the most recent clinical guidelines for this condition and discuss existing gaps in knowledge to guide future research, practice changes, and policy interventions.

Similar outcome of tricuspid valve repair and replacement for isolated tricuspid infective endocarditis

AIMS

To compare early and late mortality of acute isolated tricuspid valve infective endocarditis (TVIE) treated with valve repair or replacement.

METHODS

Patients who were surgically treated for TVIE from 1983 to 2018 were retrieved from the Italian Registry for Surgical Treatment of Valve and Prosthesis Infective Endocarditis. All the patients were followed up by means of phone interview or calling patient referral physicians or cardiologists. Kaplan-Meier method was used to assess late survival and survival free from TVIE recurrence with log-rank test for univariate comparison. The primary end points were early mortality (30 days after surgery) and long-term survival free from TVIE recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 4084 patients were included in the registry. Among them, 149 patients were included in the study. Overall, 77 (51.7%) underwent TV repair and 72 (48.3%) TV replacement. Early mortality was 9% (13 patients). Expected early mortality according to EndoSCORE was 12%. The TV repair showed lower mortality and major complication rate (7% and 16%), compared with TV replacement (11% and 25%), but statistical significance was not reached. Median follow-up was 19.1 years (14.3-23.8). Late deaths were 30 and IE recurrences were 5. No difference in cardiac survival free from IE was found between the two groups after 20 years (80 ± 6% Repair Group vs 59 ± 13% Replacement Group, P = 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall results indicate that once surgically addressed, TVIE has a low recurrence rate and excellent survival, apparently regardless of the type of surgery used to treat it.

Transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve implantation with bioprosthetic balloon expandable valve

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of the transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation for degenerated tricuspid bioprosthetic valves with transcatheter aortic valves.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled all consecutive patients who were considered high risk for reoperations by the heart team and who underwent transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation for degenerated tricuspid bioprosthetic valves in Tehran Heart Center, Tehran, Iran. All the procedures were performed via the transfemoral venous route under echocardiography and fluoroscopy guidance with Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter heart valves (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA).

RESULTS

Ten patients underwent successful transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation in the tricuspid position without any major complications or need for emergency surgical interventions. The mean age was 54.1 ± 17.1 years, and 8 patients were female. The median follow-up was 19.5 months (16-32.25 mon). The mean period between the last tricuspid valve replacement and transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation was 4.9 ± 2.2 years. The bioprosthetic valves were Hancock in three patients, Mosaic in the other three patients, and Biocor, Pericarbon, Perimount, and Epic in the other patients. After the procedure, the clinical and functional status improved significantly in all the patients. The mean transvalvular gradient decreased from 6.75 ± 2.66 mm Hg to 2.85 ± 0.89 (P < 0.001), and the postoperative tricuspid regurgitation severity decreased significantly in almost all the patients. The hospitalization period after the procedure was 4.4 ± 1.7 days.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk patients, transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation seems to be a safe and minimally invasive alternative to reoperations for degenerated tricuspid bioprosthetic valves.

Two case reports of transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation of Sapien 3 and MyVal in degenerated biological tricuspid prosthesis valves

Background

Patients with severe tricuspid valve stenosis or dysfunction following degeneration of biological valve prosthesis in tricuspid position are complex, have substantial comorbidity, and very high surgical risk.

Case summary

We report two cases with transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve implantation in patients with degenerated tricuspid bioprosthesis with transfemoral and transjugular access with Sapien 3 valve and MyVal, respectively.

Discussion

In patients with high surgical risk, transcatheter tricuspid valve implantation is a good alternative. Careful consideration of optimal access site, device size, and delivery system is paramount. This case report demonstrates technically feasible and safe transcatheter valve-in-valve implantantion in tricuspid position and highlights the importance of meticulous procedure planning.

Tricuspid Valve Imaging and Right Ventricular Function Analysis Using Cardiac CT and MRI

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) can reveal the detailed anatomy and function of the tricuspid valve and right ventricle (RV). Quantification of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and analysis of RV function have prognostic implications. With the recently available transcatheter treatment options for diseases of the tricuspid valve, evaluation of the tricuspid valve using CT and CMR has become important in terms of patient selection and procedural guidance. Moreover, CT enables post-procedural investigation of the causes of valve dysfunction, such as pannus or thrombus. This review describes the anatomy of the tricuspid valve and CT and CMR imaging protocols for right heart evaluation, including RV function and TR analyses. We also demonstrate the pre-procedural planning for transcatheter treatment of TR and imaging of postoperative complications using CT.

Reappraisal of mechanical tricuspid valve replacement in the current era: a single center retrospective study

Background

This study aimed to investigate the early and late outcomes of mechanical tricuspid valve replacement (mTVR).

Methods

We evaluated 113 patients (82 women; median age, 53 years) who underwent mTVR between 1995 and 2017. Based on a history of cardiac surgery, patients were divided into primary (n=42) and reoperative mTVR (n=71) groups. The median follow-up duration was 12.7 years in primary and 9.3 years in reoperative mTVR, respectively (P=0.045).

Results

Patients in the reoperative group were older (54 vs. 46 years; P=0.007) and showed higher central venous pressure (16±6 vs. 13±6 mmHg; P=0.002) than the primary group. Early mortality occurred in 2 patients in the reoperative group (2 vs. 0; P=0.529). There was no significant difference in overall survival between the primary and reoperation groups (15-year survival rate: 86% vs. 78%; P=0.215). The independent risk factors of overall survival were age [P<0.001; hazard ratio (HR), 1.11; 95% confidential interval (CI), 1.05–1.18], left ventricular ejection fraction of less than 40% (P=0.001; HR, 5.1; 95% CI, 2.21–28.2), and central venous pressure over 20 mmHg (P=0.016; HR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.28–10.7). Overall survival did not differ between the age groups (<60 vs. 60–70 years) in the reoperative group (P=0.772). Tricuspid valve thrombosis occurred in 8 patients (7 primary, 1 reoperative; P=0.004).

Conclusions

The incidence of tricuspid valve thrombosis was significantly higher in the primary mTVR group compared with the reoperative mTVR group. The patients who underwent mTVR at a relatively young age showed good early and late outcomes in both groups.

Percutaneous techniques for treatment of tricuspid valve dysfunction in congenital heart disease - an emerging therapy

Introduction: Tricuspid valve (TV) dysfunction treatment experiences exponential growth of the interest over the last years. New techniques for percutaneous tricuspid valve treatment are either on the market or in the early stages of development.Areas covered: Deficiency of uniform guideline-based recommendations leads to diverse TV dysfunction treatment options. The current review describes the development of surgical techniques for TV dysfunction in Ebstein's anomaly and transition to a variety of new technologies. Then, the focus is on the potential of percutaneous interventions to reduce the total number of open-heart surgeries in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) after TV replacement with a bioprosthesis to improve TV function.Expert opinion: TV dysfunction is usually a complex combination of anatomical cardiac features in CHD. Compared to adults with secondary TV dysfunction, CHD patients usually are younger and have experienced several open-heart surgeries at a young age. Therefore, TV dysfunction can affect long-term life expectancy and quality of life significantly. So far, surgery was the gold standard for TV dysfunction treatment. The duration of TV plasty or bioprosthesis is limited, while the risk of re-do operations increases with every procedure. Percutaneous TV implantation may reduce the total number of open-heart surgeries over a patient's life.

Which is the best prosthesis in an isolated or combined tricuspid valve replacement?

OBJECTIVES

METHODS

From January 1999 to December 2018, 338 patients underwent tricuspid valve replacement. Patients were divided into an isolated group or a combined group according to whether their surgery was combined with a left heart valve surgery. Mechanical tricuspid valve replacement was performed in 142 patients (isolated group: 41 vs combined group: 101), and 196 patients underwent bioprosthetic tricuspid valve replacement (isolated group: 145 vs combined group: 51). Operative results, long-term survival and tricuspid valve-related events were compared.

RESULTS

Early mortality in the combined group was higher (n = 6, 4%) than that in the isolated group (n = 3, 2%), but no significant difference was observed between the mechanical and biological subgroups. In the isolated group, there was a higher event-free rate in the biological subgroup than in the mechanical subgroup (P = 0.042) and a similar result was also observed for patients without Ebstein’s anomaly (P = 0.039). In the combined group, no significant difference was observed (P = 0.98). Survival rates were similar between the mechanical and biological subgroups in both the isolated (P = 0.54) and combined (P = 0.81) groups. Mechanical valves in isolated tricuspid valve replacement were more prone to valve thrombosis and bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Every decision regarding tricuspid valve prostheses should be individualized, but biological prostheses may be an optimal choice for patients, especially for patients without Ebstein’s anomaly, in isolated tricuspid valve replacement.

Invasive Hemodynamic Characteristics in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve-In-Valve Implantation for Treatment of Tricuspid Stenosis

Background:

We sought to describe invasive hemodynamic measurements in patients with tricuspid stenosis (TS) undergoing transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve (TVIV) implantation immediately pre- and postimplantation. Development of TS in patients who have undergone surgical tricuspid valve replacement with a bioprosthetic valve is a serious complication that leads to elevated right atrial (RA) pressures and decreased cardiac output. Transcatheter TVIV implantation is a viable alternative to surgical tricuspid valve replacement, but data on the hemodynamic consequences of TVIV for the treatment of severe TS are currently limited to echocardiographic assessment of Doppler-derived gradients.

Methods:

Eleven patients undergoing transcatheter TVIV implantation with moderate to severe bioprosthetic valve stenosis were selected for retrospective review. Right atrial mean pressure, right ventricular (RV) systolic and end-diastolic pressure, mean diastolic RA-RV pressure gradient, pulmonary artery capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary artery systolic, end-diastolic and mean pressures, and pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) both before and after transcatheter valve placement were collected from catheterization reports.

Results:

After transcatheter TVIV implantation, the mean TS gradient decreased significantly ( P < .01), while the mean RV end-diastolic pressure increased ( P = .046). Pulmonary artery pulsatility index also increased as the TS was relieved ( P = .039).

Conclusions:

Tricuspid valve-in-valve implantation results in immediate relief of TS, leading to increased RV preload with resultant augmentation of RV and pulmonary pressures. Increased PAPi following the procedure demonstrates acute improvement in RV output but remains low due to the failure of the RA pressure to decline significantly immediately following intervention.

Early Structural Valve Deterioration of Tricuspid Pericardial Valve Caused by Native Valve Adhesion

Although preservation of the subvalvular apparatus affects left ventricular function and late outcome in mitral valve replacement, there are some reports of early structural valve deterioration caused by the adhesion of native valves. We report the case of a 41-year-old woman who developed early structural valve deterioration after tricuspid valve replacement caused by the adhesion of native valves. It is a rare complication, but one to consider upon observing early rising of the pressure gradient or symptoms after tricuspid valve replacement like mitral valve replacement.

Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis: a case series

Background

Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis is a late sequela of tricuspid valve replacement (TVR); however, detailed information regarding its clinical picture is lacking.

Case summary

Thirty-one patients with bioprosthetic TVR (mean age: 60.5 ± 16.6 years, male/female: 11/20) were followed-up for 79.5 ± 49.1 months (14–188 months). Eleven patients developed bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis (mean tricuspid gradient >5 mmHg) at a median interval of 96 months (interquartile range: 61–114 months). The mean tricuspid gradient at the time of tricuspid valve stenosis diagnosis was 10.9 ± 3.9 mmHg. Although the mid-term tricuspid valve stenosis-free survival was favourable (92.4% at 60 and 78.7% at 84 months), it had declined steeply to 31.5% by 120 months. Ten out of 11 tricuspid valve stenosis patients showed signs of right heart failure (RHF) as manifested by oedema and elevated jugular venous pressure, requiring moderate-to-high doses of diuretics. Diastolic rumble was audible in 10 patients. Five of the 11 tricuspid valve stenosis patients required redo TVR as a result of refractory RHF. Examination of the five excised bioprostheses showed pannus in four, fusion of the commissure in three, native valve attachment in two, and sclerosis in one. Detailed clinical pictures and pathology of the explanted valves in three cases that underwent surgery are presented in this case series.

Discussion

Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis is not uncommon after 8 years. Tricuspid valve replacement performed at the second surgery was associated with a higher incidence of bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis.

[Tricuspid valve regurgitation : Indications and operative techniques]

Functional tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation secondary to left heart disease (e.g. mitral insufficiency and stenosis) is observed in 75% of the patients with TV regurgitation and is thus the most common etiology; therefore, the majority of patients who require TV surgery, undergo concomitant mitral and/or aortic valve surgery. Uncorrected moderate and severe TV regurgitation may persist or even worsen after mitral valve surgery, leading to progressive heart failure and death. Patients with moderate to severe TV regurgitation show a 3-year survival rate of 40%. Surgery is indicated in patients with severe TV regurgitation undergoing left-sided valve surgery and in patients with severe isolated primary regurgitation without severe right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. For patients requiring mitral valve surgery, tricuspid valve annuloplasty should be considered even in the absence of significant regurgitation, when severe annular dilatation (≥40 mm or >21 mm/m²) is present. Functional TV regurgitation is primarily treated with valve reconstruction which carries a lower perioperative risk than valve replacement. Valve replacement is rarely required. Tricuspid valve repair with ring annuloplasty is associated with better survival and a lower reoperation rate than suture annuloplasty. Long-term results are not available. The severity of the heart insufficiency and comorbidities (e.g. renal failure and liver dysfunction) are the essential determinants of operative mortality and long-term survival. Tricuspid valve reoperations are rarely necessary and associated with a considerable mortality.

Reoperation for isolated rheumatic tricuspid regurgitation

Background

The reoperation for isolated tricuspid regurgitation in rheumatic population is rare and still unclear and controversial because of the rarity of publications. The aim of this study was to analyze short and long-term results and outcome of tricuspid valve surgery after left-sided valve surgery in rheumatic patients.

Methods

Twenty six consecutive rheumatic patients who underwent isolated tricuspid valve surgery after left-sided valve surgery between January 2000 and January2017 were retrospectively registered in the study. The mean age was 48.2 ± 8.6 years with 8.3% as sex-ratio (M/F). EuroSCORE was 6.1 ± 5 (range 2.5 to 24.1). The mechanism of tricuspid regurgitation was functional and organic in respectively 14 (53.8%) and 12 cases (46.2%). Ten patients (38.5%) had previous tricuspid valve repair. Surgery consisted of 15 ring annuloplasty and 11 tricuspid valve replacement (5 bioprostheses and 6 mechanical prostheses). Follow-up was 96.1% complete, with a mean follow-up of 55.6 ± 38.8 months (range 1 to 165).

Results

The operative mortality rate was 15.4% (n = 4) and the cumulative survival at 1, 5 and 10 years was respectively 80% ± 8%, 75.6% ± 8.7% and 67.2% ± 11.1% with no significant difference at 8 years between tricuspid valve replacement (80% ± 12.6%) and repair (57.6% ± 16.1%) (p = 0.5). Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that ascites (HR, 5.8; p = 0.01), and right ventricular dysfunction (HR, 0.94; p = 0.001) were predictors of major adverse cardiac events. There were no recurrence of tricuspid regurgitation and no structural or non-structural deterioration of valvular prostheses.

Conclusion

The reoperation of rheumatic tricuspid regurgitation should be considered before the installation of complications such as right ventricular dysfunction and major signs of right heart failure. Despite the superiority of repair techniques, tricuspid valve replacement should not be banished.

Surgical Techniques for Tricuspid Valve Disease

Tricuspid valve disease affects millions of patients worldwide. It has always been considered less relevant than the left-side valves of the heart, but this “forgotten valve” still represents a great challenge for the cardiac surgeons, especially in the most difficult symptomatic scenarios. In this review we analyze the wide spectrum of surgical techniques for the treatment of a diseased tricuspid valve.

Surgical Management of Tricuspid Valve Infective Endocarditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis compares the early and late outcomes of valve repair versus replacement, the primary surgical strategies for tricuspid valve infective endocarditis (IE).

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE databases until 2016 for studies comparing tricuspid valve repair and replacement.

RESULTS

The main outcomes were mortality, recurrent IE, and need for reoperation. There were 12 unmatched retrospective observational studies with 1,165 patients (median follow-up 3.8 years, interquartile range: 2.1 to 5.0). The most common indications for surgery were septic pulmonary embolism, left-sided IE, right-side heart failure, and persistent bacteremia. Median repair proportion was 59% and replacement was 41% among studies. The primary repair strategies are vegetectomy, De Vega procedure, annuloplasty ring, bicuspidization, and leaflet patch augmentation. Of valve replacements, 83% were bioprosthetic and 17% mechanical prostheses. There were no differences in perioperative mortality between tricuspid valve repair versus replacement (relative risk [RR] 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26 to 1.46, p = 0.3). Long-term all-cause mortality was not different (RR 0.61, 95% CI: 0.22 to 1.72, p = 0.4). Valve repair was associated with lower recurrent IE (RR 0.17, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.57, p = 0.004) and need for reoperation (RR 0.26, 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.92, p = 0.04) but a trend toward greater risk of moderate to severe tricuspid regurgitation (RR 4.14, 95% CI: 0.80 to 21.34, p = 0.09). Furthermore, tricuspid valve repair is associated with lower need for permanent pacemaker (RR 0.20, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.35, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Tricuspid valve repair and replacement offer similar long-term survival. Valve repair may offer greater freedom from recurrent IE and reoperation as well as freedom from pacemaker and should be the preferred approach for patients with tricuspid valve IE.

Tricuspid regurgitation diagnosis and treatment

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is the most common lesion of the tricuspid valve (TV). Mild TR is common and usually is benign. However, moderate or severe TR can lead to irreversible myocardial damage and adverse outcomes. Despite these findings, few patients with significant TR undergo surgery. The treatment of functional (secondary) TR in particular remains controversial because of high rates of residual or recurrent TR and poor outcomes following surgical intervention. Traditional teaching that functional TR resolves on its own if the underlying disease is successfully treated has proven to be incorrect. This review aims to clarify management of TR by describing the anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of TR, including the eventual possibility of percutaneous TV therapy.

Risk factors associated with perioperative morbidity and mortality following isolated tricuspid valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Reports of isolated tricuspid valve replacement (iTVR) are relatively rare. The present study aimed to evaluate independent risk factors of perioperative morbidity and mortality after iTVR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 118 consecutive patients (42 males; mean age, 49.1 ± 12.9 y) who underwent iTVR from May 2003 to April 2016 in our center. The multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the independent risk factors associated with perioperative morbidity and mortality following iTVR.

RESULTS

One hundred one patients (85.6%) were classified as New York Heart Association functional class III or IV preoperatively. The overall perioperative mortality was 11.8% (14/118), and a significant difference was observed between the nonreoperative group and the reoperative group (6.7% versus 18.3%, P = 0.047). The multivariate logistic regression analyses identified that preoperative New York Heart Association functional class IV (OR [odds ratio] = 15.43, 95% CI [confidence interval] = 3.46-68.83, P = 0.000) and ascites (OR = 4.88, 95% CI = 1.24-19.27, P = 0.024) were independent risk factors of perioperative deaths. The previous cardiac surgery (OR = 3.28, 95% CI = 1.41-7.62, P = 0.006) was independently associated with perioperative major adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed that iTVR has relatively high mortality and morbidity rates. Timely surgery may be recommended for this high-risk cohort of patients before the development of severe heart and end-organ failure.

Isolated tricuspid regurgitation: outcomes and therapeutic interventions

Isolated tricuspid regurgitation (TR) can be caused by primary valvular abnormalities such as flail leaflet or secondary annular dilation as is seen in atrial fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension and left heart disease. There is an increasing recognition of a subgroup of patients with isolated TR in the absence of other associated cardiac abnormalities. Left untreated isolated TR significantly worsens survival. Stand-alone surgery for isolated TR is rarely performed due to an average operative mortality of 8%–10% and a paucity of data demonstrating improved survival. When surgery is performed, valve repair may be preferred over replacement; however, there is a risk of significant recurrent regurgitation after repair. Existing society guidelines do not fully address the management of isolated TR. We propose that patients at low operative risk with symptomatic severe isolated TR and no reversible cause undergo surgery prior to the onset of right ventricular dysfunction and end-organ damage. For patients at increased surgical risk novel percutaneous interventions may offer an alternative treatment but further research is needed. Significant knowledge gaps remain and future research is needed to define operative outcomes and provide comparative data for medical and surgical therapy.

Current Treatment Strategies for Tricuspid Regurgitation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Tricuspid regurgitation is common; however, recognition and diagnosis, clinical outcomes, and management strategies are poorly defined. Here, we will describe the etiology and natural history of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), evaluate existing surgical outcomes data, and review the evolving field of percutaneous interventions to treat TR.

RECENT FINDINGS

Previously, the only definitive corrective therapy for TR was surgical valve repair or replacement which is associated with significant operative mortality. Advances in percutaneous valve repair techniques are now being translated to the tricuspid valve. These novel interventions may offer a lower-risk alternative treatment in patients at increased surgical risk. Significant TR adversely impacts survival. Surgery remains the only proven therapy for treatment of TR and may be underutilized due to mixed outcomes data. Early experience with percutaneous interventions is promising, but large clinical experience is lacking. Further study will be required before these therapies are introduced into broader clinical practice.

Tricuspid Valve Replacement vs. Repair in Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare early and late outcomes of tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) and tricuspid valve repair (TVr) for severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR).Methods and Results:From 1994 to 2012, 360 patients (mean age, 58±13 years) with severe TR underwent TVR (n=97, 27%) or TVr (n=263, 73%). Among them, 282 patients (78%) had initial rheumatic etiology, and 307 patients (85%) had preoperative atrial fibrillation. The TVR group had higher total bilirubin, higher baseline central venous pressure, and higher incidence of previous cardiac operation. There was no difference in early mortality (TVR:TVr, 3.1%:3.4%, P=0.877). Ten-year overall survival (TVR:TVr, 72%:70%, P=0.532) and 10-year freedom from cardiac death (TVR:TVr, 76%:77%, P=0.715) were not significantly different between groups. After applying stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting methods, there were still no significant differences in early mortality (P=0.293), overall survival (P=0.649) or freedom from cardiac death (P=0.870). Higher NYHA functional class, total bilirubin (>2 mg/dL), initial central venous pressure, and cardiopulmonary bypass time were independent predictors of early mortality. Older age, LV dysfunction (EF <40%), and hemoglobin <10 g/dL were independent predictors of late cardiac mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with TVr, TVR had acceptable early and late outcomes in patients with severe TR. TVR can be considered as a valid option with acceptable clinical outcomes in patients who are not suitable candidates for TVr.

Tricuspid valve-in-valve implantation for failing bioprosthetic valves: an evolving standard of care

Redo surgery for bioprosthetic tricuspid valve failure is associated with high morbidity and mortality. In recent years, transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve (VIV) therapy utilizing ballon-expandable transcatheter valves has become available. The tricuspid Valve-in-Valve International Data (VIVID) registry initial results represent the largest experience with tricuspid VIV therapy, demonstrating high procedural success rates with low 30 days mortality and excellent survival free of repeat tricuspid intervention in 1 year. Although longer clinic and hemodynamic follow-up will be needed to fully understand the role of this therapy, these data support the safety, feasibility and beneficial effects of tricuspid VIV therapy. For patients with bioprosthetic tricuspid valve failure, tricuspid VIV is likely to become a first-line treatment option.

Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve-in-Valve Implantation for the Treatment of Dysfunctional Surgical Bioprosthetic Valves

Background—

Off-label use of transcatheter aortic and pulmonary valve prostheses for tricuspid valve-in-valve implantation (TVIV) within dysfunctional surgical tricuspid valve (TV) bioprostheses has been described in small reports.

Methods and Results—

An international, multicenter registry was developed to collect data on TVIV cases. Patient-related factors, procedural details and outcomes, and follow-up data were analyzed. Valve-in-ring or heterotopic TV implantation procedures were not included. Data were collected on 156 patients with bioprosthetic TV dysfunction who underwent catheterization with planned TVIV. The median age was 40 years, and 71% of patients were in New York Heart Association class III or IV. Among 152 patients in whom TVIV was attempted with a Melody (n=94) or Sapien (n=58) valve, implantation was successful in 150, with few serious complications. After TVIV, both the TV inflow gradient and tricuspid regurgitation grade improved significantly. During follow-up (median, 13.3 months), 22 patients died, 5 within 30 days; all 22 patients were in New York Heart Association class III or IV, and 9 were hospitalized before TVIV. There were 10 TV reinterventions, and 3 other patients had significant recurrent TV dysfunction. At follow-up, 77% of patients were in New York Heart Association class I or II ( P <0.001 versus before TVIV). Outcomes did not differ according to surgical valve size or TVIV valve type.

Conclusions—

TVIV with commercially available transcatheter prostheses is technically and clinically successful in patients of various ages across a wide range of valve size. Although preimplantation clinical status was associated with outcome, many patients in New York Heart Association class III or IV at baseline improved. TVIV should be considered a viable option for treatment of failing TV bioprostheses.

Should a Mechanical or Biological Prosthesis Be Used for a Tricuspid Valve Replacement? A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY

The prosthesis of choice for a tricuspid valve replacement is still unkown. This meta-analysis was undertaken to review the results of mechanical and bioprosthetic valves in the tricuspid position.

METHODS

We identified all relevant studies published in the past 20 years (from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2014) through the Embase, Current Contents, and PubMed databases. The hazard ratio and its 95% confidence limits were utilized to evaluate time-to-event related effects of surgical procedures. The Q-statistic, Index of Inconsistency test, funnel plots, and Egger's test were used to assess the degree of heterogeneity and publication bias. Random effects models were used, and study quality was also assessed.

RESULTS

In our meta-analysis, 22 studies published from 1995 to 2014 were reviewed and 2630 patients and 14,694 follow-up years were analyzed. No statistically significant difference was identified between mechanical and biological valves in terms of survival, reoperation, and prosthetic valve failure. The respective pooled hazard ratio estimates were 0.95 (0.79 to 1.16, p = 0.62, I(2)  = 29%), 1.20 (0.84 to 1.71, p = 0.33, I(2)  = 0%), and 0.35 (0.06 to 2.01, p = 0.24, I(2)  = 0%). A higher risk of thrombosis was found in mechanical tricuspid valve prostheses (3.86, 1.38 to 10.82, p = 0.01, I(2)  = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

No statistically significant difference was identified between mechanical and biological valves in terms of survival, reoperation, or prosthetic valve failure, but mechanical tricuspid valve prostheses had a higher risk of thrombosis. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12730 (J Card Surg 2016;31:294-302).

Percutaneous tricuspid valve replacement in childhood

Percutaneous replacement of the tricuspid valve with a bovine jugular venous valve (melody valve) was successfully undertaken in a 9-year-old boy. The patient had a previous history of bacterial endocarditis of the native tricuspid valve in infancy. Initially, a pericardial patch valve was created, followed by surgical replacement of the valve using a biological tissue valve at 4 years of age. Progressive stenosis and regurgitation of the biological valve, with severe venous congestion and resulting hepatic dysfunction prompted percutaneous valve replacement.

Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve endocarditis caused by Acinetobacter baumannii complex, a case report and brief review of the literature

Background

Species of the genus Acinetobacter are Gram-negative and highly drug-resistant bacilli that normally reside on the skin, oropharynx, and perineum. Several previous studies have reported prosthetic valve endocarditis due to A. baumannii infection.

Case presentation

Here we present a case of late endocarditis of a bioprosthetic tricuspid valve due to A. baumannii complex in a patient who had surgical replacement with a bioprosthetic tricuspid valve six years previously.

Conclusions

We completed tricuspid valve replacement using a 29 mm St. June mechanical prosthetic valve for the patient. Postoperatively, she received intravenous cefoperazone sodium and sulbactam sodium for 2 months and had good recovery.