Reoperations After Repair of Partial Atrioventricular Septal Defect: A 45-Year Single-Center Experience

Does Down syndrome influence the outcomes of congenital cardiac surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Congenital cardiac surgery for individuals with Down syndrome (DS) has historically occurred at a reduced frequency. Little data are available regarding long-term post-congenital cardiac surgical outcomes. Limited sample sizes and clinical heterogeneity require a pooled analysis approach.

AIMS

To compare long-term outcomes post-congenital heart surgery between adults with and without DS.

METHODS

Databases (Medline, Embase, and PubMed) were searched utilizing terms related to DS and congenital heart disease.Studies that enrolled adults (>18 years) with operated congenital heart disease and compared long-term outcomes with respect to DS presence were included. All study designs were included, but those with limited/peri-operative follow-up, non-English texts, case studies, and literature reviews were excluded.Blinded screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were independently conducted by two reviewers. QUIPS criteria were used for risk of bias analysis. Both random- and fixed-effects models were used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies (n = 10 466) were included. Risk of bias was frequently high due to unblinded retrospective study designs and analyses limited in adjustment for other prognostic factors.Meta-analysis demonstrated no effect of DS on long-term mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.6-1.23], to a maximum described follow-up of 38 years. Lower cardiac reoperation risk (HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.46-0.78) for individuals with DS was found on pooled analysis. Meta-analysis was limited by between-study variation.

CONCLUSION

DS does not affect post-congenital cardiac surgical survival in adulthood. Reduced reoperation may reflect challenges in assessing functional and symptomatic status and/or concerns regarding perceived reoperation difficulties or likely benefits.

Unrepaired Transitional Atrioventricular Septal Defect in a 52-Year-Old Patient

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Complex congenital heart disease can be missed if not considered in the differential diagnosis.

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Mild subtypes of AVSDs can be asymptomatic until late age.

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Multimodality imaging in complex congenital heart disease to define the anatomy is needed.

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Nonsurgical options for partial AVSD require more study.

Canadian Cardiovascular Society 2022 Guidelines for Cardiovascular Interventions in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Interventions in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) focus on surgical and percutaneous interventions in light of rapidly evolving ACHD clinical practice. To bring rigour to our process and amplify the cumulative nature of evidence ACHD care we used the ADAPTE process; we systematically adjudicated, updated, and adapted existing guidelines by Canadian, American, and European cardiac societies from 2010 to 2020. We applied this to interventions related to right and left ventricular outflow obstruction, tetralogy of Fallot, coarctation, aortopathy associated with bicuspid aortic valve, atrioventricular canal defects, Ebstein anomaly, complete and congenitally corrected transposition, and patients with the Fontan operation. In addition to tables indexed to evidence, clinical flow diagrams are included for each lesion to facilitate a practical approach to clinical decision-making. Excluded are recommendations for pacemakers, defibrillators, and arrhythmia-directed interventions covered in separate designated documents. Similarly, where overlap occurs with other guidelines for valvular interventions, reference is made to parallel publications. There is a paucity of high-level quality of evidence in the form of randomized clinical trials to support guidelines in ACHD. We accounted for this in the wording of the strength of recommendations put forth by our national and international experts. As data grow on long-term follow-up, we expect that the evidence driving clinical practice will become increasingly granular. These recommendations are meant to be used to guide dialogue between clinicians, interventional cardiologists, surgeons, and patients making complex decisions relative to ACHD interventions.

Reoperations After Repair for Atrioventricular Septal Defects: >25 Years Experience at a Single Center

Our aim was to evaluate the total burden of reoperations after previous repair for atrioventricular septal defects, including long-term survival and identify risk factors for reoperation. All patients with surgical correction for atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) 1993- 2020 underwent a follow-up in October 2020. Clinical data were obtained by retrospective review and evaluated with Kaplan-Meier and competing risk analysis. Of 477 patients who underwent initial repair, 53 patients (11.1%) underwent a total of 82 reoperations. The perioperative mortality at reoperation was 3.8% (2/53). There were no late deaths (0/51) during follow-up. In patients requiring reoperation for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation, a re-repair was performed in 90% (26/29) at first attempt. Estimated overall survival was 96.2 ± 2.6% (95% CI 91.2-100) in the Any reoperation group and 96.7 ± 0.9% (95% CI 94.9-98.5) in the No reoperation group at 20 years (P = 0.80). The cumulative incidence function of Any reoperation (with death as competing risk) was 13.0% (95% CI 9.4-16.5) at 20 years. Independent risk factors for Any reoperation included severe mitral regurgitation after primary repair (HR 40.7; 95% CI 14.9-111; P < 0.001). The risk of perioperative mortality in AVSD patients undergoing reoperation was low in the present study. Long-term survival was very good and not significantly different when compared to patients who did not need reoperation. Re-repair for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation was possible in most cases and showed long-term durability. Our data suggest that reoperations after primary repair of AVSD have very good long-term outcomes when performed at a high-volume pediatric cardiac surgery center.

Clinical Features and Outcomes in Adults With Childhood Repair of Partial Atrioventricular Septal Defect

Background

Partial atrioventricular septal defects (pAVSDs) are mostly repaired in childhood; however, there are limited data describing these patients in adulthood.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe clinical course and associations with outcomes in adults with repaired pAVSDs.

Methods

A retrospective review of adults (≥18 years) with pAVSDs repaired in childhood who presented to the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic at our institution was conducted.

Results

Of 121 patients, the median age was 31 years (IQR: 22-43 years) and 71.9% were female. The median number of operations at the time of presentation was 1 (IQR: 1-2). Left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) replacement had been performed in 19.8% of patients. Among those with native LAVV, 41.2% had ≥ moderate regurgitation. Atrial arrhythmias were present in 34.7% and were associated with later age at repair (P = 0.02) and a high number of prior surgeries (P = 0.005). Estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressure >40 mmHg was seen in 19.8%. Over 4 (IQR: 1-12) years of follow-up, death occurred in 13 (10.7%) patients and reoperation was required in 39.7%. One-third had a LAVV prosthesis by the end of the study. Atrial fibrillation was independently associated with death or hospitalization on multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

In this cohort of adults with pAVSDs repaired in childhood, atrial fibrillation was common at a young age and associated with worse outcomes. Thus, more studies are needed evaluating the cause of this arrhythmia burden and possible associated atrial myopathy. While many require surgery in adulthood, more information is needed regarding indications for and impacts of LAVV intervention as one-third had an LAVV prosthesis by the end of follow-up.

Propensity score matched analysis of cleft closure in complete atrioventricular septal defect repair

BACKGROUND

Repair of complete atrioventricular septal defect (cAVSD) is achieved with low mortality. However, there is a high rate of reoperation on the left atrioventricular valve (LAVV), which is often attributed to non-closure of the cleft. Although non-closure of the cleft has been reported to be a risk factor for reoperation, no randomized-controlled or propensity-matched trials have ever been performed. We investigated the effect of cleft closure on outcomes following cAVSD repair.

METHODS

We reviewed 455 patients who underwent cAVSD repair between 1990 and 2019. To determine the effect of cleft closure, propensity score matching was performed on risk factors for reoperation following cAVSD repair.

RESULTS

Median age was 3.6 months (mean 9.6±20.4), median weight was 4.3 kg (mean 4.7±4.3kg) and 41.9% (191/455) were male. Early mortality was 2.9% (13/455), and survival was 89.8±1.9% at 20 years. Early reoperation was a risk factor for mortality (p=0.004). Freedom from reoperation was 72.5±4.0% at 20 years. Freedom from LAVV reoperation was 74.1±4.0% at 20 years. Preoperative severe LAVV regurgitation (p<0.001) and early postoperative moderate or greater LAVV regurgitation (p=0.007) were risk factors for reoperation, while trisomy 21 (p=0.03) and recent era of surgery (p=0.02) were protective. Propensity score matching yielded 106 pairs. There were no differences in long-term survival (p=0.71) or reoperation (p=0.26) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Repair of cAVSD can be achieved with low mortality and good long-term survival, however, the reoperation rate remains high. Similar freedom from reoperation can be achieved with or without closure of the LAVV cleft.

A Modified Technique for Valve Regurgitation after Partial Atrioventricular Septal Defect Repair

Given its complex pathological anatomy, recurrent left atrioventricular valve regurgitation after partial atrioventricular septal defect repair remains a challenge for surgical correction. Here, we introduce a modified bridging technique by shortening the anteroposterior leaflet distance in selected patients with inadequate coaptation to compensate for the short leaflet height, specifically that of the anterior leaflet.

Allelic Interaction between CRELD1 and VEGFA in the Pathogenesis of Cardiac Atrioventricular Septal Defects

Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD) are highly heritable, clinically significant congenital heart malformations. Genetic and environmental modifiers of risk are thought to work in unknown combinations to cause AVSD. Approximately 5–10% of simplex AVSD cases carry a missense mutation in CRELD1. However, CRELD1 mutations are not fully penetrant and require interactions with other risk factors to result in AVSD. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) is a well-characterized modulator of heart valve development. A functional VEGFA polymorphism, VEGFA c.−634C, which causes constitutively increased VEGFA expression, has been associated with cardiac septal defects suggesting it may be a genetic risk factor. To determine if there is an allelic association with AVSD we genotyped the VEGFA c.−634 SNP in a simplex AVSD study cohort. Over-representation of the c.−634C allele in the AVSD group suggested that this genotype may increase risk. Correlation of CRELD1 and VEGFA genotypes revealed that potentially pathogenic missense mutations in CRELD1 were always accompanied by the VEGFA c.−634C allele in individuals with AVSD suggesting a potentially pathogenic allelic interaction. We used a Creld1 knockout mouse model to determine the effect of deficiency of Creld1 combined with increased VEGFA on atrioventricular canal development. Morphogenic response to VEGFA was abnormal in Creld1-deficient embryonic hearts, indicating that interaction between CRELD1 and VEGFA has the potential to alter atrioventricular canal morphogenesis. This supports our hypothesis that an additive effect between missense mutations in CRELD1 and a functional SNP in VEGFA contributes to the pathogenesis of AVSD.

Repair of Partial Atrioventricular Septal Defects in Adults: A Single Center Experience

Limited data are available on long-term outcome after repair of partial atrioventricular septal defects (pAVSD) in adults. We sought to review our experience. Between January 1, 1957 and December 31, 2016, 179 adult patients [median age (IQR) 34 (18, 72) years] underwent primary repair of pAVSD. The most common associated defects were secundum atrial septal defect (n = 38) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) (n = 7). Left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) zone of apposition (ZOA) was complete in 47 patients and LAVV regurgitation (≥moderate) was present in 73 patients. Autologous pericardium (n = 79, 45%) and polytetrafluoroethylene felt (n = 56, 32%) were mainly used for pAVSD closure.  Repair techniques for LAVV regurgitation included: ZOA suture closure (n =  142), suture annuloplasty (n = 10) and posterior band annuloplasty (n = 9). Six had LAVV replacement. There were 61 deaths over a median follow-up of 21 years (IQR 10, 38), with only 4 early deaths. In a limited subset of patients with 80 paired measurements (n = 40), median right ventricular systolic pressure declined from 43 mm Hg (IQR 35-51) to 33 mm Hg (IQR 30-44) postoperatively (P < 0.001), and this improvement was sustained over long-term follow-up (P = 0.513). A total of 34 patients underwent a reoperation (recurrent LAVV regurgitation, n = 26; left ventricular outflow-tract obstruction, n = 7; LAVV stenosis, n = 4; patch dehiscence, n = 1) with cumulative incidence of 6% and 16% at 10 and 15 years, respectively. Repair of pAVSD in adults can be done safely with low early mortality and good long-term outcomes. Postrepair reduction of pulmonary artery pressure is significant. Despite the low re-operation rates, long-term surveillance remains essential.

Applications of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in congenital heart disease

Three-dimensional echocardiography allows for presurgical planning for congenital heart disease, reduces radiation using fusion imaging in catheter interventions, and provides guidance during catheter interventions and lead placements or extractions. The purpose of this review is to detail applications of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in presurgical planning of congenital heart disease, guidance of catheter interventions such as fusion imaging, and guidance in electrophysiology lead extractions or placements.

Annuloplasty band implantation in adults with partial atrioventricular septal defect: a propensity-matched study

OBJECTIVES

The incidence of recurrent left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) regurgitation is generally high after repair of partial atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of implanting an additional annuloplasty band into the LAVV during partial AVSD repair and to assess the late outcomes of recurrent LAVV regurgitation.

METHODS

This study enrolled 133 patients who underwent repair of partial AVSD at our institution from January 2005 to December 2015. All patients underwent repair of the ostium primum atrial septal defect and closure of the LAVV cleft; 37 patients underwent additional annuloplasty band implantation. To minimize differences in preoperative data, propensity score matching was used to identify 33 well-matched patient pairs.

RESULTS

Cardiopulmonary bypass time and aorta cross-clamp time were significantly longer in the band implantation group (P < 0.05). The 2 groups had similar durations of intensive care and hospital stay (P > 0.05). There was 1 in-hospital death in the band implantation group. During follow-up, conduction block occurred in 6 patients in each group. After follow-up of more than 10 years, freedom from late recurrent LAVV regurgitation was 91% in the band implantation group and 57% in the isolated cleft closure group (P < 0.05). In patients with preoperative severe regurgitation and moderate/mild regurgitation, the rates of freedom from recurrent LAVV regurgitation were 85% and 37%, respectively (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with moderate/severe LAVV regurgitation or severe annular dilation, additional band implantation significantly reduces the incidence of recurrent regurgitation and improves long-term outcomes.

Long-Term Outcome After Pulmonary Artery Banding in Children With Atrioventricular Septal Defects

BACKGROUND

Patients with atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) may require pulmonary artery banding (PAB), either as a part of a staged univentricular palliation or to allow delayed biventricular repair in patients presenting with early heart failure. The long-term outcomes of PAB in children with AVSD have not been previously reported.

METHODS

All children with AVSD who underwent PAB at a single institution were included in the study. Data were obtained from medical records and correspondence with general practitioners and cardiologists.

RESULTS

A total of 68 patients with complete AVSD underwent PAB, of whom 58.8% of patients (40 of 68) had balanced AVSD (bAVSD) and underwent PAB with intent to subsequently perform biventricular repair. The remaining 41.2% of patients (28 of 68) had unbalanced AVSD (uAVSD) and underwent PAB as part of staged univentricular repair. PAB was not associated with a short-term increase in atrioventricular valve (AVV) regurgitation (p = 0.24). In patients with bAVSD, 83.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 67.4% to 92.4%) achieved biventricular repair. Survival was 73.4% (95% CI: 54.3% to 85.5%) and freedom from left AVV operation was 60.0% (95% CI: 36.1% to 77.4%) at 20 years of follow-up. In patients with uAVSD, 61.9% (95% CI: 40.5% to 77.5%) had achieved Fontan completion at 10 years of follow-up. Survival was 60.9% (95% CI: 36.2% to 78.5%) and freedom from AVV operation was 78.6% (95% CI: 55.5% to 90.6%) at 20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

PAB can be used in patients with AVSD without compromising AVV function. Most patients with bAVSD progress to biventricular repair, albeit with a high rate of AVV reoperation. Patients with uAVSD who undergo PAB have similar outcomes to the overall uAVSD population.

Common atrioventricular valve failure during single ventricle palliation†

OBJECTIVES

To determine the risk of atrioventricular valve failure (valve intervention or moderate or greater regurgitation) during the lifetime of patients with single ventricle physiology and common atrioventricular valve.

METHODS

Patients' data were extracted from an existing bi-national, population based registry. A retrospective review of their medical records was undertaken to determine the incidence of atrioventricular valve repair/replacement or moderate or greater regurgitation.

RESULTS

From a registry of 1468 Fontan survivors, 136 patients with common atrioventricular valve were identified. Complete echocardiographic follow-up was available for 114 patients. Median length of follow-up was 10.2 years (interquartile range 5-15 years). Twenty-five year survival and freedom from Fontan failure were 94% [95% confidence interval (CI), 88-100%] and 74% (95% CI, 64-87%), respectively. Twenty-eight patients underwent 24 initial repairs and 4 replacements. The 24 patients undergoing repair subsequently needed 6 re-repairs, 2 replacements and 8 had moderate or greater regurgitation at last follow-up. Four-year freedom from atrioventricular valve repair failure was 50% (95% CI, 34-75%). An additional 30 patients developed moderate or greater atrioventricular valve regurgitation (6 New York Heart Association ≥3, 10 Fontan failures, 0 deaths). Cumulative incidence of the composite endpoint of atrioventricular valve failure at 28 years was 62% (95% CI, 49-74%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with single ventricle physiology and common atrioventricular valve experience a continuous decline in valve function. The majority of patients experience valve failure in the first 30 years of life.

Innovation in 3D Echocardiographic Imaging

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to detail three-dimensional echocardiographic (3DE) innovations in pre-surgical planning of congenital heart disease, guidance of catheter interventions such as fusion imaging, and functional assessment of patients with congenital heart disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Innovations in 3DE have helped us delineate the details of atrioventricular valve function and understand the mechanism of atrioventricular valve failure in patients with atrioventricular septal defect and single ventricle post repair. Advancement in holographic display of 3D datasets allows for better manipulation of 3D images in three dimensions and better understanding of anatomic relationships. 3DE with fusion imaging reduces radiation in catheter interventions and provides presentations of 3DE images in the similar fashion as the fluoroscopic images to improve communication between cardiologists. Lastly, 3DE allows for quantitative ventricular volumetric and functional assessment. Recent innovations in 3DE allow for pre-surgical planning for congenital heart disease, reduce radiation using fusion imaging in catheter interventions, and enable accurate assessment of ventricular volume and function without geometric assumptions.

Symptomatic partial and transitional atrioventricular septal defect repaired in infancy

Objectives

Infants with symptomatic partial and transitional atrioventricular septal defect undergoing early surgical repair are thought to be at greater risk. However, the outcome and risk profile of this cohort of patients are poorly defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcome of symptomatic infants undergoing early repair and to identify risk factors which may predict mortality and reoperation.

Methods

This multicentre study recruited 51 patients (24 female) in three tertiary centres between 2000 and 2015. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) partial and transitional atrioventricular septal defect, (2) heart failure unresponsive to treatment, (3) biventricular repair during the first year of life.

Results

Median age at definitive surgery was 179 (range 0–357) days. Sixteen patients (31%) had unfavourable anatomy of the left atrioventricular valve: dysplastic (n=7), double orifice (n=3), severely deficient valve leaflets (n=1), hypoplastic left atrioventricular orifice and/or mural leaflet (n=3), short/poorly defined chords (n=2). There were three inhospital deaths (5.9%) after primary repair. Eleven patients (22%) were reoperated at a median interval of 40 days (4 days to 5.1 years) for severe left atrioventricular valve regurgitation and/or stenosis. One patient required mechanical replacement of the left atrioventricular valve. After median follow-up of 3.8 years (0.1–11.4 years), all patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I. In multivariable analysis, unfavourable anatomy of the left atrioventricular valve was the only risk factor associated with left atrioventricular valve reoperation.

Conclusions

Although surgical repair is successful in the majority of the cases, patients with partial and transitional atrioventricular septal defect undergoing surgical repair during infancy experience significant morbidity and mortality. The reoperation rate is high with unfavourable left atrioventricular valve anatomy.

Technical Performance Score Predicts Partial/Transitional Atrioventricular Septal Defect Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Repair of partial or transitional atrioventricular septal defects (P/TAVSDs) has excellent outcomes; however, late reinterventions remain a concern. Technical performance score (TPS) measures residua after repair and has been associated with early/mid-term outcomes after congenital cardiac operation. Our study investigates TPS as a predictor of outcomes after P/TAVSD repair.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective review of P/TAVSD repair from July 2000 to November 2015. Intraoperative and discharge TPS were assigned based on echocardiographic criteria: class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; and class 3, major residua or reintervention for major residua. Intensive care unit (ICU) hospital length of stay and reintervention after discharge were analyzed with Cox regression.

RESULTS

In our cohort, 124 partial (68%) and 59 transitional (32%) AVSDs underwent repair. Median age was 1.5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.6 to 3.8 years), median weight was 9.7 kg (IQR: 6.6 to 14.1 kg), and 96 (52%) were female. Twenty patients (11%) required reintervention after discharge. On multivariable modeling, patients with TPS class 3 spent more days in the ICU (hazard ratio [HR] 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19 to 0.58, p < 0.001) and hospital (HR 0.33, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.57, p < 0.001) and had shorter time to reintervention after discharge (HR 8.76, 95% CI: 1.03 to 74.7, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Major residua, that is TPS class 3, were a predictor of in-hospital outcomes and unplanned reinterventions after discharge, with left atrioventricular valve regurgitation being the strongest predictor. Use of TPS as a tool for residual lesions may identify patients predisposed to prolonged ICU hospital stay and reinterventions after discharge, providing feedback on areas in need of improvement in technique and identification of patients who warrant closer follow-up.

Propensity score matched analysis of partial atrioventricular septal defect repair in infancy

OBJECTIVE

Partial atrioventricular septal defect (pAVSD) is usually repaired between 2 and 4 years of age with excellent results. Repair during infancy has been associated with poorer outcomes. However, most infants in reported series had heart failure or significant left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) regurgitation. The impact of surgery during infancy on outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS

All children at three institutions who underwent repair of pAVSD from 1975 to 2015 were included. Infants (aged <1 year) were compared with older children in a propensity score matched analysis. Variables used to generate propensity scores were: failure to thrive, congestive heart failure, preoperative LAVV regurgitation, associated congenital heart disease, sex and the presence of trisomy 21.

RESULTS

pAVSD repair was performed on 430 children, 17.4% (75/430) were infants. Infants (mean age 0.5±0.3 years) had higher rates of LAVV regurgitation, heart failure and additional cardiac malformations than older children (mean age 4.7±3.5 years). At 30 years, survival for infants was 82.1% (95% CI 70.1% to 89.6%) compared with 95.7% (95% CI 91.3% to 97.9%) in older children (P<0.001).Propensity score matching yielded 52 well-matched pairs. Survival at 30 years was 87.9% (95% CI 75.0% to 94.4%) for infants compared with 98.1% (95% CI 87.1% to 99.7%) for older children (P=0.04). There was no significant difference in freedom from reoperation between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite matching for risk factors, survival after repair of pAVSD during infancy is lower than that when repair is performed in older children, with no difference in reoperation rates. This suggests that elective repair of pAVSD should be deferred until after infancy.

Surgical Considerations in Atrioventricular Canal Defects

Atrioventricular canal defects represent a diverse and challenging group of defects. Timing and surgical technique is greatly dependent on morphology of the valve as well as symptoms. Surgical options for repair of these defects are reviewed and presented below.

Repair of Partial Atrioventricular Septal Defect: Age and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the outcomes of patients undergoing surgical repair of partial atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) and analyzed the effect of age on outcome.

METHODS

In this single-center retrospective study, we included all children who underwent repair of partial AVSD between 1990 and 2014. We divided the patients into 4 age quartiles (first quartile: 0-0.75 years, n = 22; second quartile: 0.75-1.5 years, n = 21; third quartile: 1.5-3.75 years, n = 22; and fourth quartile: >3.75 years, n = 21). These quartiles were evaluated for their association with the time-to-event outcomes of survival, freedom from left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (LAVVR), and freedom from reoperation using log-rank analysis.

RESULTS

During the study period, 86 patients underwent partial AVSD repair at a median age of 1.5 years. There were no operative deaths and 2 late deaths (unknown cause and trauma). There were 13 reoperations. The most common cause of reoperation was left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) (5 patients [first quartile, 2 cases; second quartile, 1 case; third quartile, 2 cases, and fourth quartile, 0 cases]). LAVV reoperation for insufficiency or stenosis was performed in 4 patients (first quartile, 1 case; second quartile, 1 case; third quartile, 1 case; and fourth quartile, 1 case). Two patients underwent pacemaker placement (second quartile, 1 case and fourth quartile, 1 case). There were no statistically significant differences in the most common complications-LVOTO, LAVVR, and AV heart block-between the 4 age quartiles. Median follow-up was 7.1 years (interquartile range [IQR], 0.8-11.4 years). On echocardiography, 72 patients (84%) had less than or equal to mild LAVVR, 8 (9%) patients had mild to moderate LAVVR, 5 (6%) patients had moderate LAVVR, and 1 (1%) patient had severe LAVVR. Age at repair had no significant association with degree of late AV valve insufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of partial AVSD repair at a median age of 1.5 years are excellent. Operating at this age is not associated with increased mortality, reoperation, or LAVVR.

Subaortic Area at Risk for Development of Obstruction After Surgical Repair of Atrioventricular Septal Defect: Myth or Reality?

BACKGROUND

Morphology of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) in atrioventricular septal defects (AVSDs) has been reported to be at risk for development of obstruction. The purpose of the present study was to identify the incidence, the risk factors, and the surgical outcomes of subaortic stenosis in repaired AVSDs.

METHODS

Records of 427 consecutive patients who underwent anatomical repair for all types of AVSDs from January 2000 to December 2012 were reviewed. Outcomes, independent risk factors, reoperation, and death were analyzed.

RESULTS

In a median follow-up of five years (range: 17 months-11.8 years), eight patients required nine reoperations for subaortic stenosis. Study group (n = 11) included three additional patients for whom repair was performed in a different institution. Median delay for reoperation was 11.9 years (range: 1.3-19.4 years). Surgical relief of subaortic stenosis was obtained by means of the enlargement of the LVOT: resection of fibrous structures in all reoperated patients and associated with septal myectomy in four. Two patients required a modified Konno procedure. Five reoperations were associated with left atrioventricular valve repair or replacement. Statistical analysis didn't reveal any morphologic or demographic risk factors. No early or late death occurred.

CONCLUSION

The development of subaortic stenosis after repair of AVSD remains a rare complication in midterm follow-up (incidence: 1.9%). The performance of preventive gesture during repair seemed to be unjustified. The surgical management of this reoperation consists of a simple and safe procedure.

Surgical repair of partial atrioventricular defect

Long-term survival rate of patients operated for partial atrioventricular (AV) canal is lower than that of the general population, and late complications are relatively significant: between 10 and 30% of operated patients present with left AV valve regurgitation, and up to 25% have to be reoperated for valve repair or replacement, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction or residual atrial septal defect. Because the left AV valve regurgitation is the most common complication following surgery, technical details in the surgical management of the mitral valve are the most important aspects of this procedure; for example, the decision to close the cleft and to perform an annuloplasty. The presence of mitral valve anomalies in 7-28% of the cases complicates further the surgical management of these valves. This article will describe in detail the operative technique of partial AV canal repair, and review the relevant literature.

Partial and intermediate atrioventricular septal defects without major associated cardiac anomalies

Partial and intermediate atrioventricular septal defects (p-i AVSDs) constitute approximately 20-40% of all AVSDs. Children with p-i AVSDs are usually asymptomatic and typically undergo surgery at the preschool age or earlier if the signs of heart failure have developed. Surgical treatment for repair of p-i AVSDs has been successful for more than 60 years and is mainly directed towards closing septal defects, and maintaining or creating competent, non-stenotic left and/or right atrioventricular valves. By most measures, the outcomes of surgical management of p-i AVSDs have improved over the last 5 decades. In spite of significantly reduced mortality, the need for reoperation and long-term morbidity remains an issue in some patients from this population. The purpose of this article is to review current options and outcomes concerning the surgical management of the p-AVSD and i-AVSD variants without major associated cardiac malformations.

Factors associated with moderate or severe left atrioventricular valve regurgitation within 30 days of repair of incomplete atrioventricular septal defect

Introduction

Left atrioventricular valve regurgitation is the most concerning residual lesion after surgical correction of atrioventricular septal defect.

Objective

To determine factors associated with moderate or greater left atrioventricular valve regurgitation within 30 days of surgical repair of incomplete atrioventricular septal defect.

Methods

We assessed the results of 51 consecutive patients 14 years-old and younger presenting with incomplete atrioventricular septal defect that were operated on at our practice between 2002 and 2010. The following variables were considered: age, weight, absence of Down syndrome, grade of preoperative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation, abnormalities on the left atrioventricular valve and the use of annuloplasty. The median age was 4.1 years; the median weight was 13.4 Kg; 37.2% had Down syndrome. At the time of preoperative evaluation, there were 23 cases with moderate or greater left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (45.1%). Abnormalities on the left atrioventricular valve were found in 17.6%; annuloplasty was performed in 21.6%.

Results

At the time of postoperative evaluation, there were 12 cases with moderate or greater left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (23.5%). The variation between pre- and postoperative grades of left atrioventricular valve regurgitation of patients with atrioventricular valve malformation did not reach significance (P=0.26), unlike patients without such abnormalities (P=0.016). During univariate analysis, only absence of Down syndrome was statistically significant (P=0.02). However, after a multivariate analysis, none of the factors reached significance.

Conclusion

None of the factors studied was determinant of a moderate or greater left atrioventricular valve regurgitation within the first 30 days of repair of incomplete atrioventricular septal defect in the sample. Patients without abnormalities on the left atrioventricular valve benefit more of the operation.

Three-dimensional echocardiography of congenital abnormalities of the left atrioventricular valve

Congenital abnormalities of the left atrioventricular (AV) valve are a significant diagnostic challenge. Traditionally, reliance has been placed on two-dimensional echocardiographic (2DE) imaging to guide recognition of the specific morphological features. Real-time 3DE can provide unique views of the left AV valve with the potential to improve understanding of valve morphology and function to facilitate surgical planning. This review illustrates the features of congenital abnormalities of the left AV valve assessed by 3DE. The similarities and differences in morphology between different lesions are described, both with respect to the valve itself and supporting chordal apparatus. The potential advantages as well as limitations of this technique in clinical practice are outlined.

Allelic Interaction between CRELD1 and VEGFA in the Pathogenesis of Cardiac Atrioventricular Septal Defects

Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD) are highly heritable, clinically significant congenital heart malformations. Genetic and environmental modifiers of risk are thought to work in unknown combinations to cause AVSD. Approximately 5-10% of simplex AVSD cases carry a missense mutation in CRELD1. However, CRELD1 mutations are not fully penetrant and require interactions with other risk factors to result in AVSD. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) is a well-characterized modulator of heart valve development. A functional VEGFA polymorphism, VEGFA c.-634C, which causes constitutively increased VEGFA expression, has been associated with cardiac septal defects suggesting it may be a genetic risk factor. To determine if there is an allelic association with AVSD we genotyped the VEGFA c.-634 SNP in a simplex AVSD study cohort. Over-representation of the c.-634C allele in the AVSD group suggested that this genotype may increase risk. Correlation of CRELD1 and VEGFA genotypes revealed that potentially pathogenic missense mutations in CRELD1 were always accompanied by the VEGFA c.-634C allele in individuals with AVSD suggesting a potentially pathogenic allelic interaction. We used a Creld1 knockout mouse model to determine the effect of deficiency of Creld1 combined with increased VEGFA on atrioventricular canal development. Morphogenic response to VEGFA was abnormal in Creld1-deficient embryonic hearts, indicating that interaction between CRELD1 and VEGFA has the potential to alter atrioventricular canal morphogenesis. This supports our hypothesis that an additive effect between missense mutations in CRELD1 and a functional SNP in VEGFA contributes to the pathogenesis of AVSD.

The application of on-pump beating-heart surgery for partial atrioventricular septal defect: a report of 87 cases

BACKGROUND

Partial atrioventricular septal defect (P-AVSD) is a common congenital heart disease. Because of the presence of left and right atrioventricular valve deformities and the shift in the atrioventricular node and cardiac conduction bundle, the surgical repair of P-AVSD is difficult. This study was performed to compare the effects on the coronary sinus septum in the left versus the right atrium during surgical treatment for P-AVSD and report our experiences regarding the application of on-pump beating heart surgery under mild hypothermia for patients with P-AVSD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of on-pump beating heart surgery were analyzed retrospectively in 87 P-AVSD patients. Of the 87 total patients, 84 with anterior mitral leaflet cleft underwent valvuloplasty and 3 underwent mitral valve replacement. Seventy-seven patients underwent tricuspid valve annuloplasty, 2 underwent tricuspid valve replacement, and 1 underwent left superior vena cava ligation, and 3 patients with atrial fibrillation were treated with radiofrequency ablation. Patients with an ostium primum atrial septal defect underwent autologous pericardial modified Kirklin repair. Of these, 46 patients had their coronary sinus septum separated into the left atrium and 41 had their coronary sinus retained in the right atrium. Fingertip oxygen saturation was compared between patients in whom the coronary sinus was separated to the left atrium and those in whom the coronary sinus was retained in the right atrium.

RESULTS

There was 1 postoperative early death (1.15%) due to respiratory failure, and 1 patient had a III degree atrioventricular block (1.15%) and underwent implantation of a permanent pacemaker. The fingertip oxygen saturation levels of the left atrium group were 96.81 ± 3.17 preoperatively, 95.37 ± 4.62 at 7 days postoperatively, and 94.53 ± 4.95 at 3 months postoperatively. Those of the right atrium group were 98.53 ± 2.84 preoperatively, 97.19 ± 3.57 at 7 days postoperatively, and 96.89 ± 4.19 at 3 months postoperatively. During the follow-up period, which ranged from 3 months to 7 years, the cardiac function was adequately restored.

CONCLUSIONS

On-pump beating heart surgery under mild hypothermia is a safe and feasible method. The retention of the coronary sinus in the right atrium might maintain oxygen saturation.

Reoperations for left atrioventricular valve dysfunction after repair of atrioventricular septal defect

OBJECTIVES

Postoperative left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) dysfunction is known to be the principal risk factor influencing outcome after repair of all types of atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). The purpose of the present study was to identify the risk factors for reoperation and to assess the outcomes after reoperation for LAVV dysfunction.

METHODS

Records of 412 patients who underwent anatomical repair for different types of AVSD from January 2000 to July 2012 were reviewed. The study group (n = 60) included 13 additional patients for whom repair ± LAVV reoperation was performed in a primary institution. Outcomes, independent risk factors, reoperation and death were analysed.

RESULTS

There were 7 early, (1.7%) and 1 late death. Forty-seven (11.4%) required 64 reoperations for LAVV dysfunction. The median delay for the first LAVV reoperation was 3.5 months (range: 5 days to 10.0 years). Unbalanced ventricles with small left ventricle [odds ratio (OR) = 4.06, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.58-10.44, P = 0.004], double-orifice LAVV (OR = 5.04, 95% CI: 1.39-18.27, P = 0.014), prior palliative surgery (OR = 3.5, 95% CI: 1.14-10.8, P = 0.029) and discharge echocardiography documenting LAVV regurgitation grade >2 (OR = 21.96, 95% CI: 8.91-54.09, P < 0.001) were found to be independent risk factors for LAVV reoperation. Twelve-year survival and freedom from LAVV reoperation rates were, respectively, 96.1% (95% CI: 94.1-98.1) and 85.8% (95% CI: 81.3-90.3). Survival was significantly worse in patients who underwent LAVV reoperation (P < 0.001) and in those who underwent valve replacement vs valve repair (P = 0.020).

CONCLUSION

After AVSD repair, LAVV dysfunction appears to be the principal factor that influences outcome. It can usually be managed by repair. Need for multiple reoperations is not uncommon. Long-term outcome in patients with repaired LAVV is favourable.

Long-term results of reoperation for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation after correction of atrioventricular septal defects

BACKGROUND

Long-term results of reoperation for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (LAVVR) after previous correction of atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) are scarce. We evaluated long-term outcome of reoperation for LAVVR and identified risk factors for reoperation.

METHODS

Between December 1976 and July 2006, 45 of 312 patients with correction of different AVSDs underwent reoperation for LAVVR. The cohort of 267 patients who did not need reoperation for LAVVR allowed for the identification of risk factors for reoperation and evaluation of overall survival after primary AVSD repair in a competing risk scenario. Clinical data were obtained by retrospective review.

RESULTS

The left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) was repaired in 31 patients (68.9%) and replaced in 14 (31.1%). There were 3 in-hospital deaths (6.7%) and 2 late deaths (4.4%). Estimated overall survival was 88.1% at 15 years after the reoperation, and estimated incidence of death after reoperation in the total patient cohort was 2% at 15 years after the primary AVSD repair. Overall survival was significantly higher after LAVV repair than after replacement (p=0.010). Ten patients with LAVV repair required a second reoperation for LAVVR. At follow-up, survivors were in New York Heart Association functional class I (n=36) or II (n=4). Independent risk factors for first reoperation for LAVVR were associated cardiovascular anomalies (p<0.001), LAVV dysplasia (p<0.001), and nonclosure of the cleft (p=0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

After previous correction of AVSD, LAVVR can usually be corrected by valve repair. A very dysplastic valve may necessitate replacement. Overall survival is higher after repair than after replacement. In general, overall survival of patients reoperated on for LAVVR is favorable. The overall mortality rate after primary repair of AVSD is explained only for a small part by mortality after reoperation for LAVVR.

Congenital Heart Defects in Adults : A Field Guide for Cardiologists

Advances in cardiology and cardiac surgery allow a large proportion of patients with congenital heart defects to survive into adulthood. These patients frequently develop complications characteristic of the defect or its treatment. Consequently, adult cardiologists participating in the care of these patients need a working knowledge of the more common defects. Occasionally, patients with congenital heart defects such as atrial septal defect, Ebstein anomaly or physiologically corrected transposition of the great arteries present for the first time in adulthood. More often patients previously treated in pediatric cardiology centers have transitioned to adult congenital heart disease centers for ongoing care. Some of the more important defects in this category are tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, functionally single ventricle defects, and coarctation. Through this field guide, we provide an overview of the anatomy of selected defects commonly seen in an adult congenital practice using pathology specimens and clinical imaging studies. In addition, we describe the physiology, clinical presentation to the adult cardiologist, possible complications, treatment options, and outcomes.

Surgical interventions for atrioventricular septal defect subtypes: the pediatric heart network experience

BACKGROUND

The influence of atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) subtype on outcomes after repair is poorly understood.

METHODS

Demographic, procedural, and outcome data were obtained 1 and 6 months after AVSD repair in an observational study conducted at 7 North American centers.

RESULTS

The 215 AVSD patients were subtyped as 60 partial, 27 transitional, 120 complete, and 8 with canal-type VSD. Preoperatively, transitional patients had the highest prevalence of moderate or severe left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (LAVVR, p = 0.01). At repair, complete AVSD and canal-type VSD patients, both with the highest prevalence of trisomy 21 (p < 0.001), were younger (p < 0.001), had lower weight-for-age z scores (p = 0.005), and had more associated cardiac defects (p < 0.001). Annuloplasty was similar among subtypes (p = 0.91), with longer duration of ventilation and hospitalization for complete AVSD (p < 0.001). Independent predictors of moderate or severe LAVVR at the 6-month follow-up were older log(age) at repair (p = 0.02) but not annuloplasty, subtype, or center (p > 0.4). Weight-for-age z scores improved in all subtypes at the 6-month follow-up, and improvement was similar among subtypes (p = 0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

AVSD subtype was significantly associated with patient characteristics and clinical status before repair and influenced age at repair. Significant postoperative LAVVR is the most common sequela, with a similar prevalence across centers 6 months after the intervention. Annuloplasty failed to decrease the postoperative prevalence of moderate or severe LAVVR at 6 months. After accounting for age at repair, AVSD subtype was not associated with postoperative LAVVR severity or growth failure at 6 months. Further investigation is needed to determine if interventional strategies specific to AVSD subtype improve surgical outcomes.

In adult patients undergoing redo surgery for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation after atrioventricular septal defect correction, is replacement superior to repair?

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was 'In adult patients undergoing redo surgery for left atrioventricular valve regurgitation after atrioventricular septal defect correction, is replacement superior to repair?' Altogether more than 109 papers were found using the reported search, of which eight represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, and results of these papers are tabulated. We conclude that left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) repair should be the first line approach and the use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in operating room is mandatory. When complex anatomy and multiple anomalies of the LAVV are present the risk of a suboptimal repair is high and is associated with elevated subsequent risk of early reintervention. Prosthetic valve replacement is suggested in these cases and there is no long-term survival difference compared to repair procedures. Unfortunately, the risk of complete heart block and permanent pacemaker (PMK) implantation is higher when replacement is performed. Prosthetic valve choice is in favor of mechanical valves, mainly due to the young age of the patients. In the selected articles the frequency of valve replacement ranged from 14 to 34% and a mechanical valve was used in nearly all cases in the presented series. We feel that for older patients or for those in whom long-term anticoagulation is a concern, biological prosthesis can be an option, also due to the growing and expanding experience of percutaneous/transapical valve-in-valve replacement in mitral position. Since in these patients the number of previous sternotomies is usually one or more and re-entry injuries can be a major source of perioperative mortality and morbidity, we believe that mini-thoracotomy approach can avoid potential damage; furthermore, arterial cannulation can be either central or peripheral according to the degree of visceral adhesions or surgeon's choice. Venous drainage should be provided by a percutaneous vacuum-assisted femoral double stage venous drainage, which is useful especially when concomitant tricuspid valve surgery is planned.