Perioperative management of patients with pulmonary hypertension undergoing non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery: a systematic review and expert consensus statement

Right Heart Failure in the Intensive Care Unit: Etiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Right heart (RH) failure carries a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Patients who present with RH failure often exhibit complex aberrant cardio-pulmonary physiology with varying presentations. The treatment of RH failure almost always requires care and management from an intensivist. Treatment options for RH failure patients continue to evolve rapidly with multiple options available, including different pharmacotherapies and mechanical circulatory support devices that target various components of the RH circulatory system. An understanding of the normal RH circulatory physiology, treatment, and support options for the RH failure patients is necessary for all intensivists to improve outcomes. The purpose of this review is to provide clinical guidance on the diagnosis and management of RH failure within the intensive care unit setting, and to highlight the different pathophysiological manifestations of RH failure, its hemodynamics, and treatment options available at the disposal of the intensivist.

2024 AHA/ACC/ACS/ASNC/HRS/SCA/SCCT/SCMR/SVM Guideline for Perioperative Cardiovascular Management for Noncardiac Surgery: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2024 AHA/ACC/ACS/ASNC/HRS/SCA/SCCT/SCMR/SVM Guideline for Perioperative Cardiovascular Management for Noncardiac Surgery" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the perioperative cardiovascular evaluation and management of adult patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from August 2022 to March 2023 to identify clinical studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

Recommendations from the "2014 ACC/AHA Guideline on Perioperative Cardiovascular Evaluation and Management of Patients Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery" have been updated with new evidence consolidated to guide clinicians; clinicians should be advised this guideline supersedes the previously published 2014 guideline. In addition, evidence-based management strategies, including pharmacological therapies, perioperative monitoring, and devices, for cardiovascular disease and associated medical conditions, have been developed.

2024 AHA/ACC/ACS/ASNC/HRS/SCA/SCCT/SCMR/SVM Guideline for Perioperative Cardiovascular Management for Noncardiac Surgery: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2024 AHA/ACC/ACS/ASNC/HRS/SCA/SCCT/SCMR/SVM Guideline for Perioperative Cardiovascular Management for Noncardiac Surgery" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the perioperative cardiovascular evaluation and management of adult patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from August 2022 to March 2023 to identify clinical studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

Recommendations from the "2014 ACC/AHA Guideline on Perioperative Cardiovascular Evaluation and Management of Patients Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery" have been updated with new evidence consolidated to guide clinicians; clinicians should be advised this guideline supersedes the previously published 2014 guideline. In addition, evidence-based management strategies, including pharmacological therapies, perioperative monitoring, and devices, for cardiovascular disease and associated medical conditions, have been developed.

Anesthetic management of pulmonary artery banding in adult patient with single ventricle and uncorrected transposition of the great arteries

Pulmonary artery banding (PAB) is a procedure mainly performed during the neonatal period as an initial stage to definitive palliative reconstruction, a scenario in which the criteria for banding adjustment are well defined. However, the indication for BAP in the adult is extraordinarily rare, even more in patients with single ventricle and unrepaired transposition of the great arteries (TGA), and there are no established criteria for banding adjustment. Due to the small number of these procedures, there is limited experience in their anesthetic management and complications. We describe a case of a 29-year-old patient diagnosed with a cyanotic congenital heart disease of double-inlet left ventricle with TGA and unrepaired mitral stenosis, who underwent to a hybrid procedure of PAB and enlargement of the communication between the two atria.

A case of cardiorespiratory collapse following bilateral sub-Tenon's blocks from brainstem anaesthesia

Sub-Tenon's block has a superior safety profile and life-threatening complications such as cardiovascular collapse and brainstem anaesthesia are extremely rare. We report a case of cardiorespiratory collapse following bilateral sub-Tenon's blocks at the conclusion of a laser photocoagulation procedure under general anaesthesia. The cause was most likely brainstem anaesthesia. We explore and discuss the likely mechanisms and other potential differential diagnoses. It highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance following an eye block. Attention should not falter upon completing a block or at the conclusion of a case, regardless of its type or safety profile. This case also illustrates how the presence of general anaesthesia may obscure and delay the diagnosis of brainstem anaesthesia.

Operative strategies and outcomes for patients with severe pulmonary artery hypertension and intestinal obstruction: case series from single institution-sharing lessons to improve surgical outcomes

Pulmonary hypertension is a known perioperative risk factor that carries a high morbidity and mortality rate. Severe pulmonary hypertension is related to high morbidity after general anaesthesia. We are reporting three patients with underlying severe pulmonary hypertension, who presented with intestinal obstruction managed with different perioperative approaches. In case 1, a 38-year-old man with Eisenmenger syndrome and severe pulmonary hypertension underwent exploratory laparotomy, right hemicolectomy, and double barrel stoma for obstructed right-sided colonic tumour. He passed away on Day 6 post-operation. In case 2, a 52-year-old man with Eisenmenger syndrome and severe pulmonary hypertension presented with obstructed rectosigmoid tumour and jejunojejunal intussusception and underwent exploratory laparotomy and Hartmann's procedure. He succumbed after 33 days of fighting with cardiovascular and respiratory complications. In case 3, a 65-year-old woman, with strangulated paraumbilical hernia, underwent mini laparotomy, small bowel resection, primary anastomosis, and paraumbilical hernia repair under monitored sedation and local anaesthesia. She was discharged home after 7 days of hospitalization.

ISHLT consensus statement on the perioperative use of ECLS in lung transplantation: Part II: Intraoperative considerations

The use of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) throughout the perioperative phase of lung transplantation requires nuanced planning and execution by an integrated team of multidisciplinary experts. To date, no multidisciplinary consensus document has examined the perioperative considerations of how to best manage these patients. To address this challenge, this perioperative utilization of ECLS in lung transplantation consensus statement was approved for development by the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Standards and Guidelines Committee. International experts across multiple disciplines, including cardiothoracic surgery, anesthesiology, critical care, pediatric pulmonology, adult pulmonology, pharmacy, psychology, physical therapy, nursing, and perfusion, were selected based on expertise and divided into subgroups examining the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. Following a comprehensive literature review, each subgroup developed recommendations to examine via a structured Delphi methodology. Following 2 rounds of Delphi consensus, a total of 39 recommendations regarding intraoperative considerations for ECLS in lung transplantation met consensus criteria. These recommendations focus on the planning, implementation, management, and monitoring of ECLS throughout the entire intraoperative period.

Neuraxial anesthesia for patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension undergoing urgent open abdominal surgeries: two case reports

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus regarding the choice of anesthetic method for patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). We report two cases in which neuraxial anesthesia was safely performed without general anesthesia during open abdominal surgery in patients with severe PH.

CASE PRESENTATION

Case 1: A 59-year-old woman had an atrial septal defect and a huge abdominal tumor with a mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) of 39 mmHg and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) of 3.5 Wood units. Case 2: A 23-year-old woman who had hereditary pulmonary artery hypertension (mean PAP, 65 mmHg; PVR, 16.45 Wood units). Both patients underwent open abdominal surgery under neuraxial anesthesia without circulatory collapse with intraoperative administration of vasoconstrictors.

CONCLUSION

Although anesthetic care must be personalized depending on the pathology and severity of PH, neuraxial anesthesia may be an option for patients with severe PH undergoing abdominal surgery.

Unraveling the Complex Relationship-Atrial Fibrillation and Pulmonary Hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this article, we underscore the importance of identifying risk factors and monitoring pulmonary hypertension patients for signs of arrhythmias, as this proactive approach can reduce morbidity and mortality.

RECENT FINDINGS

Atrial fibrillation is the most prevalent among cardiac arrhythmias and is associated with an increased risk of stroke, morbidity, and mortality. Smoking, obesity, hypertension, a sedentary lifestyle, and diabetes mellitus are some of the modifiable risk factors for atrial fibrillation. Recent studies show that the risk of atrial fibrillation is rising in patients with parenchymal and vascular lung disease. Stretching in the atria and pulmonary veins may lead to the onset of atrial fibrillation in cardiac conditions like hypertension, heart failure, and valvular disease. Atrial fibrillation in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) denotes a more advanced disease. Patients with PH are more susceptible to hemodynamic stress caused by tachycardia and an uncoordinated atrioventricular contraction. Therefore, atrial arrhythmias need to be treated because inadequate control of cardiac arrhythmias may result in poor clinical outcomes and lead to disease progression in PH patients. Aside from being a sign of severe disease, AF can also speed up and exacerbate the condition.

Pulmonary Shunt in Critical Care: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management Strategies

Pulmonary shunt, an abnormal passage of blood through the pulmonary circulation without adequate gas exchange, poses significant challenges in critical care. This comprehensive review explores the pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies associated with pulmonary shunt. Pulmonary shunts are classified into anatomical and physiological types, each with distinct mechanisms and implications for gas exchange. Anatomical shunts result from structural heart defects, while physiological shunts arise from ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatches. Both conditions can significantly impair oxygenation and contribute to multi-organ dysfunction. This review delves into various diagnostic modalities, including clinical assessment, imaging techniques such as chest X-ray and CT scans, and advanced diagnostic methods such as V/Q scanning and echocardiography. Challenges in diagnosing pulmonary shunt are discussed, emphasizing the limitations of current tools and the need for accurate differentiation of shunt types. Management strategies are examined, covering pharmacological interventions, non-pharmacological treatments such as mechanical ventilation and prone positioning, and surgical options. Emerging therapies and innovations in treatment are also highlighted. Special considerations are given to different patient populations, including pediatric and elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities. This review concludes with an analysis of the prognosis and outcomes associated with pulmonary shunt, focusing on short-term and long-term impacts on survival and quality of life. This review aims to enhance understanding and guide effective management practices for pulmonary shunt in critical care settings by synthesizing current knowledge and identifying areas for further research.

Anaesthetic management of a patient with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, suprasystemic pulmonary artery pressures and carcinoma of the ascending colon

A 35-year-old woman with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension underwent open hemicolectomy with cholecystectomy under combined general and epidural anaesthesia. Intra-operative pulmonary artery pressure, as measured by Swan-Ganz catheter, was suprasystemic and managed with inodilators. She developed postoperative right ventricular dysfunction requiring inotropes, incremental pulmonary vasodilators and prolonged oxygen supplementation. One year after surgery, she is recurrence-free with oxygen saturations of 88-90% on air. This case highlights that with meticulous care and multidisciplinary team input, patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension can have favourable outcomes after major cancer surgery.

Perioperative management of the vulnerable and failing right ventricle

Under recognition combined with suboptimal management of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction and failure is associated with significant perioperative morbidity and mortality. The contemporary perioperative team must be prepared with an approach for early recognition and prompt treatment. In this review, a consensus-proposed scoring system is described to provide a pragmatic approach for expeditious decision-making for these complex patients with a vulnerable RV. Importantly, this proposed scoring system incorporates the context of the planned surgical intervention. Further, as the operating room (OR) represents a unique environment where patients are susceptible to numerous insults, a practical approach to anesthetic management and monitoring both in the OR and in the intensive care unit is detailed. Lastly, an escalating approach to the management of RV failure and options for mechanical circulatory support is provided.

Case report: Successful anesthesia management of noncardiac surgery in a patient with single atrium

Background

Single atrium is very rare congenital cardiac anomaly in adults. The prognosis of patients with single atrium is very poor, with 50% of patients dying owing to cardiopulmonary complications in childhood. Herein, we focused on anesthesia management for noncardiac surgery in patients with single atrium.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old male with a history of bilateral varicocele underwent laparotomy for high-position ligation of the spermatic vein. The patient also had a history of single atrium, atrial fibrillation, chronic heart failure, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and complete right bundle branch block (CRBBB). Given the significant complications associated with general anesthesia in patients with PH, we preferred to use low-dose epidural anesthesia for this patient. Transthoracic echocardiography was used to assess cardiac function before and during surgery and guide perioperative fluid therapy. To limit the stress response, we used a regional nerve block for reducing postoperative pain. Furthermore, we used norepinephrine to appropriately increase the systemic vascular resistance in response to the reduction of systemic vascular resistance caused by epidural anesthesia.

Conclusion

Low-dose epidural anesthesia can be safely used in patients with single atrium and PH. The use of perioperative transthoracic echocardiography is helpful in guiding fluid therapy and effectively assessing the cardiac structure and function of patients. Prophylactic administration of norepinephrine before epidural injection may make it easier to maintain the patient's BP.

Acute severe pulmonary hypertension during weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass for aortic valve replacement surgery: A case report

Pulmonary arterial pressure (PAH) usually increases after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), but this normally does not affect weaning off CPB. Here we report a case of severe PAH in a patient with normal left atrial pressure. Prolonging CPB by 45 min did not lead to lower PAH. Given that lung injury can stimulate secretion of vasoconstrictors that trigger PAH, we decided to gradually increase blood flow into the lungs in an effort to restore the balance between pulmonary vasoconstrictors and vasodilators. Pulmonary artery pressure gradually decreased, allowing the patient to be weaned off CPB, after which she recovered uneventfully. Our experience suggests an approach for managing acute, severe PAH after CPB without the need for mechanical circulatory support.

How Would I Treat My Own Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension in the Perioperative Period?

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) results from an incomplete resolution of acute pulmonary embolism, leading to occlusive organized thrombi, vascular remodeling, and associated microvasculopathy with pulmonary hypertension (PH). A definitive CTEPH diagnosis requires PH confirmation by right-heart catheterization and evidence of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease on imaging studies. Surgical removal of the organized fibrotic material by pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest represents the treatment of choice. One-third of patients with CTEPH are not deemed suitable for surgical treatment, and medical therapy or interventional balloon pulmonary angioplasty presents alternative treatment options. Pulmonary endarterectomy in patients with technically operable disease significantly improves symptoms, functional capacity, hemodynamics, and quality of life. Perioperative mortality is <2.5% in expert centers where a CTEPH multidisciplinary team optimizes patient selection and ensures the best preoperative optimization according to individualized risk assessment. Despite adequate pulmonary artery clearance, patients might be prone to perioperative complications, such as right ventricular maladaptation, airway bleeding, or pulmonary reperfusion injury. These complications can be treated conventionally, but extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been included in their management recently. Patients with residual PH post-PEA should be considered for medical or percutaneous interventional therapy.

Pulmonary Hypertension and the Risk of 30-Day Postoperative Pulmonary Complications after Gastrointestinal Surgical or Endoscopic Procedures: A Retrospective Propensity Score-Weighted Cohort Analysis

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients are at higher risk of postoperative complications. We analyzed the association of PH with 30-day postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). Methods: A single-center propensity score overlap weighting (OW) retrospective cohort study was conducted on 164 patients with a mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) of >20 mmHg within 24 months of undergoing elective inpatient abdominal surgery or endoscopic procedures under general anesthesia and a control cohort (N = 1981). The primary outcome was PPCs, and the secondary outcomes were PPC sub-composites, namely respiratory failure (RF), pneumonia (PNA), aspiration pneumonia/pneumonitis (ASP), pulmonary embolism (PE), length of stay (LOS), and 30-day mortality. Results: PPCs were higher in the PH cohort (29.9% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.001). When sub-composites were analyzed, higher rates of RF (19.3% vs. 6.6%, p < 0.001) and PNA (11.2% vs. 5.7%, p = 0.01) were observed. After OW, PH was still associated with greater PPCs (RR 1.66, 95% CI (1.05-2.71), p = 0.036) and increased LOS (median 8.0 days vs. 4.9 days) but not 30-day mortality. Sub-cohort analysis showed no difference in PPCs between pre- and post-capillary PH patients. Conclusions: After covariate balancing, PH was associated with a higher risk for PPCs and prolonged LOS. This elevated PPC risk should be considered during preoperative risk assessment.

Predicting Peri-Operative Cardiorespiratory Adverse Events in Children with Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization Using Echocardiography: A Cohort Study

General anesthesia in children with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) carries an increased risk of peri-operative cardiorespiratory complications though risk stratifying individual children pre-operatively remains difficult. We report the incidence and echocardiographic risk factors for adverse events in children with PAH undergoing general anesthesia for cardiac catheterization. Echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and adverse event data from consecutive PAH patients are reported. A multivariable predictive model was developed from echocardiographic variables identified by Bayesian univariable logistic regression. Model performance was reported by area under the curve for receiver operating characteristics (AUCroc) and precision/recall (AUCpr) and a pre-operative scoring system derived (0-100). Ninety-three children underwent 158 cardiac catheterizations with mean age 8.8 ± 4.6 years. Adverse events (n = 42) occurred in 15 patients (16%) during 16 catheterizations (10%) including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (n = 5, 3%), electrocardiographic changes (n = 3, 2%), significant hypotension (n = 2, 1%), stridor (n = 1, 1%), and death (n = 2, 1%). A multivariable model (age, right ventricular dysfunction, and dilatation, pulmonary and tricuspid regurgitation severity, and maximal velocity) was highly predictive of adverse events (AUCroc 0.86, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.00; AUCpr 0.68, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.91; baseline AUCpr 0.10). Pre-operative risk scores were higher in those who had a subsequent adverse event (median 47, IQR 43 to 53) than in those who did not (median 23, IQR 15 to 33). Pre-operative echocardiography informs the risk of peri-operative adverse events and may therefore be useful both for consent and multi-disciplinary care planning.

Perioperative Management of Novel Pharmacotherapies for Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension

Heart failure (HF) and pulmonary hypertension (PH) are increasingly prevalent comorbidities in patients presenting for noncardiac surgery. The unique pathophysiology and pharmacotherapies associated with these syndromes have important perioperative implications. As new medications for HF and PH emerge, it is imperative that anesthesiologists and other perioperative providers understand their mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and potential adverse effects. We present an overview of the novel HF and PH pharmacotherapies and strategies for their perioperative management.

Anaesthetic management of a patient with severe pulmonary hypertension, moderate tricuspid regurgitation and moderate right ventricular dysfunction presenting for a dilation and curettage

A primigravida woman in her 30s with severe pulmonary hypertension, tricuspid regurgitation and depressed right ventricular function presented for therapeutic termination of pregnancy at 7 weeks gestation after referral and multidisciplinary recommendation. A slowly titrated lumbar epidural was chosen for the primary anaesthetic. Under standard American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) monitoring, invasive blood pressure monitoring and continuous transthoracic echocardiography, the patient's right ventricular systolic function was monitored throughout the case using qualitative and quantitative metrics and was notable for a right ventricular systolic pressure of 102.4 mm Hg. Milrinone, started prior to epidural titration, was used for inotropic support. Vasopressin was used in conjunction to sustain systemic vascular resistance while having little effect on the pulmonary vascular resistance. The patient experienced no complications or exacerbation of her pulmonary hypertension and was discharged home the following day.

A Meta-Analysis of Atrial Septal Defect Closure in Patients With Severe Pulmonary Hypertension: Is There a Room for Poking Holes Amid Debate?

Severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) associated with atrial septal defect (ASD) poses a challenge to a closure of ASD, particularly severe PAH that persists even after pharmacological therapeutic strategy. Our study was aimed to evaluate this matter. A systematic literature search from several databases was conducted up until August 1st, 2023. A meta-analysis was undertaken on studies that reported hemodynamic measurements in ASD patients with severe PAH before and after closure. The primary objectives were the extent of improvement in all hemodynamic parameters following closure, and the secondary outcomes were major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) during follow-up. Our study comprised 10 studies with a total of 207 participants. Patients were divided into treat-and-repair and straight-to-repair groups based on the therapeutic strategy. Meta-analysis of all studies demonstrated significant improvement in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI), 6-minutes walking distance (6MWD), and lower prevalence of World Health Organization functional classes (WHO fc), particularly in the treat-and-repair strategy subgroup. Additionally, merely 4 of the 156 individuals died from cardiac causes, and only 1 required rehospitalization, indicating a low likelihood of MACEs arising. Our new findings support the notion that effective shunt closure can improve various hemodynamic parameters in carefully chosen patients with noncorrectable ASD-PAH. Further large and prospective observational studies are still warranted to validate these findings.

Surgery and Anesthesia in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is characterized by right ventricular impairment and a reduced ability to compensate for hemodynamic insults. Consequently, surgery can be challenging but is increasingly considered in view of available specific therapies and improved longer term survival. Optimal management requires a multidisciplinary patient-centered approach involving surgeons, anesthetists, pulmonary hypertension clinicians, and intensivists. The optimal pathway involves risk:benefit assessment for the proposed operation, optimization of pulmonary hypertension and any comorbidities, the appropriate anesthetic approach for the specific procedure and patient, and careful monitoring and management in the postoperative period. Where patients are carefully selected and meticulously managed, good outcomes can be achieved.

Perioperative Management in Pulmonary Endarterectomy

Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is the treatment of choice for patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (PH), provided lesions are proximal enough in the pulmonary vasculature to be surgically accessible and the patient is well enough to benefit from the operation in the longer term. It is a major cardiothoracic operation, requiring specialized techniques and instruments developed over several decades to access and dissect out the intra-arterial fibrotic material. While in-hospital operative mortality is low (<5%), particularly in high-volume centers, careful perioperative management in the operating theater and intensive care is mandatory to balance ventricular performance, fluid balance, ventilation, and coagulation to avoid or treat complications. Reperfusion pulmonary edema, airway hemorrhage, and right ventricular failure are the most problematic complications, often requiring the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to bridge to recovery. Successful PEA has been shown to improve both morbidity and mortality in large registries, with survival >70% at 10 years. For patients not suitable for PEA or with residual PH after PEA, balloon pulmonary angioplasty and/or PH medical therapy may prove beneficial. Here, we describe the indications for PEA, specific surgical and perioperative strategies, postoperative monitoring and management, and approaches for managing residual PH in the long term.

Medical Emergencies in Pulmonary Hypertension

The management of acute medical emergencies in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) can be challenging. Patients with preexisting PH can rapidly deteriorate due to right ventricular decompensation when faced with acute physiological challenges that would usually be considered low-risk scenarios. This review considers the assessment and management of acute medical emergencies in patients with PH, encompassing both pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), acknowledging these comprise the more severe groups of PH. Management protocols are described in a systems-based approach. Respiratory emergencies include pulmonary embolism, airways disease, and pneumonia; cardiac emergencies including arrhythmia and chest pain with acute myocardial infarction are discussed, alongside PH-specific emergencies such as pulmonary artery dissection and extrinsic coronary artery compression by a dilated proximal pulmonary artery. Other emergencies including sepsis, severe gastroenteritis with dehydration, syncope, and liver failure are also considered. We propose management recommendations for medical emergencies based on available evidence, international guidelines, and expert consensus. We aim to provide advice to the specialist alongside the generalist, and emergency doctors, nurses, and acute physicians in nonspecialist centers. A multidisciplinary team approach is essential in the management of patients with PH, and communication with local and specialist PH centers is paramount. Close hemodynamic monitoring during medical emergencies in patients with preexisting PH is vital, with early referral to critical care recommended given the frequent deterioration and high mortality in this setting.

Perioperative cardiac risk reduction in non cardiac surgery

For patients undergoing nonemergent noncardiac surgery, care must be taken to identify patients at increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, as these remain a significant source of perioperative morbidity and mortality. Identification of at-risk patients requires careful attention to risk factors including assessment of functional status, medical comorbidities, and a medication assessment. After identification, to minimize perioperative cardiac risk, care should be taken through a combination of appropriate medication management, close monitoring for cardiovascular ischemic events, and optimization of pre-existing medical conditions. There are multiple society guidelines that aim to mitigate risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing nonemergent noncardiac surgery. However, the rapid evolution of medical literature often creates gaps between the existing evidence and best practice recommendations. In this review, we aim to reconcile the recommendations made in the guidelines from the major cardiovascular and anesthesiology societies from the USA, Canada, and Europe, and to provide updated recommendations based on new evidence.

Hypercarbia and high-flow nasal oxygen use during anaesthesia - risking a failure to thrive?

Prevention of arterial oxygen desaturation during anaesthesia with high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) has gained greater acceptance for a widening range of procedures. However, during HFNO use there remains the potential for development of significant anaesthesia-associated apnoea or hypoventilation and the possibility of hypercarbia, with harmful cardiovascular or neurological sequelae. The aim of this study was to determine whether any HFNO-related hypercarbia adverse incidents had been reported on webAIRS, an online database of adverse anaesthesia-related incidents. Two relevant reports were identified of complications due to marked hypercarbia during HFNO use to maintain oxygenation. In both reports, HFNO and total intravenous anaesthesia were used during endoscopic procedures through the upper airway. In both, the extent of hypoventilation went undetected during HFNO use. An ensuing cardiac arrest was reported in one report, ascribed to acute hypercarbia-induced exacerbation of the patient's pre-existing pulmonary hypertension. In the other report, hypercarbia led to a prolonged duration of decreased level of consciousness post procedure, requiring ventilatory support. During the search, an additional 11 reports of postoperative hypercarbia-associated sedation were identified, unrelated to HFNO. In these additional reports an extended duration of severe acute hypercarbia led to sedation or loss of consciousness, consistent with the known effects of hypercarbia on consciousness. These 13 reports highlight the potential dangers of unrecognised and untreated hypercarbia, even if adequate oxygenation is maintained.

Adult perioperative cardiac arrest: An overview of 684 cases reported to webAIRS

There were 684 perioperative cardiac arrests reported to webAIRS between September 2009 and March 2022. The majority involved patients older than 60 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status 3 to 5, undergoing an emergency or major procedure. The most common precipitants included airway events, cardiovascular events, massive blood loss. medication issues, and sepsis. The highest mortality rate was 54% of the 46 cases in the miscellaneous category (this included 34 cases of severe sepsis, which had a mortality of 65%). This was followed by cardiovascular precipitants (n = 424) in which there were 147 deaths (35% mortality): these precipitants included blood loss (53%), embolism (61%) and myocardial infarction (70%). Airway and breathing events accounted for 25% and anaphylaxis 8%. A specialist anaesthetist attended the majority of these cardiac arrests. As webAIRS is a voluntary database, it is not possible to determine the incidence of perioperative cardiac arrest and only descriptive information on factors associated with cardiac arrest can be obtained. Nevertheless, the large number of reports includes a wide range of cases, precipitants, demographics and outcomes, providing ample opportunity to learn from these events. The data also provide rich scope for further research into further initiatives to prevent cardiac arrest in the perioperative period, and to improve outcomes, should a cardiac arrest occur.

A Case of Giant Goiter Associated with Airway Stenosis Caused by Long-Term Intravenous Epoprostenol Therapy for Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is a progressive and life-threatening disease with pulmonary vasculature remodeling, leading to right-sided heart failure. Epoprostenol (prostaglandin I2) is highly recommended for patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) categorized by the World Health Organization as functional class III or IV. It has been reported that prostaglandin I2 analogs can cause thyroid gland swelling and abnormal thyroid function. A 34-year-old woman was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and started receiving continuous intravenous epoprostenol. Three years after starting epoprostenol, she began complaining of neck swelling and was diagnosed with Graves' disease. The patient's thyroid function was controlled by thiamazole and levothyroxine; nevertheless, her thyroid gland enlargement worsened as the epoprostenol dose was titrated. After 20 years, she developed respiratory failure with a giant goiter leading to airway stenosis, and she passed away. The pathological autopsy confirmed a massive goiter associated with hyperthyroidism and airway stenosis. We experienced a case of idiopathic pulmonary hypertension with a giant goiter and airway stenosis after long-term intravenous epoprostenol therapy.

Outcomes After Supraventricular Tachycardia Ablation in Patients With Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with right ventricular pressure overload and atrial remodeling, which may result in supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs). The outcomes of catheter SVT ablation in patients with World Health Organization (WHO) group 1 PH are incompletely characterized.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all patients with WHO group 1 PH undergoing catheter SVT ablation during a 10-year period at a major academic tertiary care hospital. Baseline patient characteristics and procedural outcomes at 3 months and 1 year were extracted from the electronic medical record.

Results

Ablation of 60 SVTs was attempted in 38 patients with group 1 PH. The initial procedural success rates were 80% for atrial fibrillation (AF, n = 5), 89.7% for typical atrial flutter (AFL, n = 29), 57.1% for atypical AFL (n = 7), 60% for atrial tachycardia (AT, n = 15), and 75% for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT, n = 4). The 1-year post-procedural recurrence rates were 100% for AF (n = 4), 25% for typical AFL (n = 20), 50% for atypical AFL (n = 2), and 28.6% for AT (n = 7). No patients had recurrent AVNRT (n = 2). There were seven (18.4%) peri-procedural decompensations requiring pressor initiation and transfer to intensive care and one (2.6%) peri-procedural death.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates that SVT ablation in group 1 PH can be performed relatively safely and effectively, albeit with lower initial success rates and higher risk of clinical decompensation than in the general population. Recurrence rates at 1 year were higher in AF and atypical AFL ablations and similar for typical AFL and AT ablations when compared to the general population.

Effects of preoperative mildly elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure on the incidence of perioperative adverse events undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy: an observational cohort study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Echocardiography provides a non-invasive estimation of pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and is the first diagnostic test for pulmonary hypertension. Recent studies have demonstrated that PASP of more than 30 mm Hg related to increased mortality and morbidity. However, perioperative risks and management for patients with mildly elevated PASP are not well established. This study aims to explore the association between mildly elevated PASP and perioperative adverse outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This will be a retrospective cohort study conducted at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital in Shanghai, China. Eligible patients are adults (≥18 years) who performed preoperative echocardiography and followed thoracoscopic lobectomy. Our primary objective is to determine the effect of preoperative mildly elevated PASP on the incidence of hypotension during surgery. Whether mildly elevated PASP is related to other perioperative adverse events (including hypoxaemia, myocardial injury, new-onset atrial fibrillation, postoperative pulmonary complications, 30-day readmission and 30-day mortality) will be also analysed. An estimated 2300 patients will be included.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has been approved by the institutional review board of Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital (approval No: 2022LY1143). The research findings intend to be published in peer-reviewed scientific publications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200066679).

Preoperative Evaluation in the 21st Century

This review aims to provide a conceptual framework for preoperative evaluation and to highlight the clinical evidence available to support perioperative decision-making.

A Literature Review on the Anesthetic Management of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Non-cardiothoracic Surgery

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by narrowing small pulmonary arteries, escalating pulmonary vascular resistance, and affecting the entire cardiovascular system. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) represents a subgroup of PH and typically affects one in 20,000 individuals. When treating individuals with PAH for non-cardiothoracic surgery, anesthetic management strategies should be tailored to the individual's specific needs. This literature review assessed the anesthetic management of PAH in non-cardiothoracic surgery. Electronic databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Ovid Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Cochrane, and Google Scholar were searched using relevant keywords related to PAH, noncardiac surgery, and anesthesia. Reference lists and author names were also investigated. The articles that met the inclusion criteria provided evidence suggesting that preoperative assessment should be comprehensive, hemodynamic goals should be established, anesthesia providers should be familiar with the underlying pathology, and cross-consultations between surgeons and anesthesia providers are essential for achieving satisfactory outcomes. Furthermore, patient care should extend beyond the surgical procedure into postoperative recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or intensive care unit (ICU) setting. In conclusion, it is vital for anesthetic management strategies to accommodate the unique needs of PAH patients to optimize their safety during perioperative care.

Effect of tracheal intubation on postoperative complications in patients with pulmonary hypertension combined with non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery

Endotracheal intubation can be associated with certain complications in certain group of patients. However, the relationship between endotracheal intubation and postoperative complications is unclear in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PHTN). This study evaluated the relationship between endotracheal intubation and postoperative complications in non-cardiothoracic and non-obstetric surgery patients with PHTN. A secondhand analysis of non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric procedures was performed on patients with PHTN between 2007 and 2013 in a hospital at the University of Washington. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to calculate the adjusted odds ratios to estimate the association between anesthesia and 30-day postoperative complications. Interaction and stratified analyses were conducted according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists score (ASA), smoking, hypertension, and open surgical approach. A total of 573 patients were included in this study, and the mean age was 60.3; 54% were male. In a multivariate regression model for patients with non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery combined with PHTN, the risk of 30-day postoperative complications was higher in the tracheal intubation group than in patients with non-intubated anesthesia after adjusting for potential covariates (adjusted odds ratio = 2.47; 95% CI, 1.28-4.78). However, there was no significant difference in postoperative mortality between these groups. Statistical analysis showed no interaction between the variables of tracheal intubation and 30-day postoperative complications. In this study, we found that tracheal intubation anesthesia is associated with increased risk of 30-day postoperative complications in PHTN patients undergoing non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Perioperative Decision-Making in Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a haemodynamic manifestation of cardiorespiratory and non-cardiorespiratory pathologies. Cardiorespiratory pathologies account for nearly three-fourths of patients with PH. It is now increasingly being recognised due to routine requests for transthoracic echocardiographic examination in the perioperative setting in patients undergoing intermediate- to high-risk non-cardiac surgery. The increased risks of perioperative morbidity and mortality attributed to PH have been widely acknowledged in the literature. The importance of PH in perioperative decision-making and postoperative outcomes has had little mention in all the guidelines. Understanding the complexity of the pathophysiology of PH may help in anaesthetic and surgical decision-making. Preoperative evaluation and risk assessment are guided by the nature, extent, invasiveness, and duration of surgery. Surgical decision-making and anaesthetic management involve preoperative risk stratification, understanding the interactions between surgical procedures and PH, and understanding the interactions between anaesthetic procedures, PH, and cardiopulmonary interactions. Intraoperative and postoperative monitoring is crucial for maintaining the haemodynamic parameters and helps titrate anaesthetic agents and medication. This narrative review focusses on all issues related to anaesthetic and surgical challenges in patients with PH. This review aimed to suggest a preoperative evaluation plan, surgical decision-making, anaesthetic plan, and anaesthetic management based on the evidence available in the literature.

How, when and why to establish preoperative surgical risk in thoracic surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Emphasizing a systems-based approach, we discuss the timing for referral for perioperative surgical consultation. This review then highlights several types of comorbidities that may complicate thoracic procedures, and references recent best practices for their management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Patients requiring thoracic surgeries present some of the most challenging cases for both intraoperative and postoperative management. The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has only exacerbated these concerns. Effective preoperative optimization, however, provides for identification of patient comorbidities, allowing for mitigation of surgical risks. This kind of planning is multidisciplinary by nature. We believe patients benefit from early engagement of a dedicated preoperative clinic experienced for caring for complex surgical patients.

SUMMARY

Optimizing patients for thoracic surgery can be challenging for small and large health systems alike. Implementation of evidence-based guidelines can improve care and mitigate risk. As surgical techniques evolve, future research is needed to ensure that perioperative care continues to progress.

Association Between Body Mass Index and 30-Day Mortality in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension Undergoing Non-cardiothoracic, Non-obstetric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Evidence regarding the association between body mass index (BMI) and outcomes in non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery patients with pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) is limited. We aimed to investigate the association between BMI and 30-day mortality in non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery patients with pulmonary hypertension.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a secondary analysis of non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric procedures on patients with PHTN between 2007 and 2013 at a single institution. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between BMI and 30-day mortality. Interaction and stratified analyses were conducted according to age, sex, PHTN medical therapy, anticipated inpatient or outpatient post-procedure status, procedure length > 2 h, open surgical approach, and PHTN severity class.

RESULTS

A total of 513 participants were included, with men accounting for 55.8% of the sample; the 30-day mortality was 1.9%. In the multivariate regression models, BMI was significantly associated with 30-day mortality after adjusting for potential covariates. A 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI was associated with a 15% decrease in 30-day mortality (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.73-0.98, P = 0.03). Stratified analyses indicated that this negative correlation was robust.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we found that low BMI is associated with increased risk of death in patients undergoing non-cardiothoracic, non-obstetric surgery requiring general anesthesia. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Management of the Critically Ill Patient with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Right Heart Failure

Right ventricular (RV) failure is a recognized complication of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Pregnancy and surgery represent unique challenges to the patient with PH and require input from an interprofessional team. Approach to treatment must embrace sound physiologic principles that are based on optimization of RV preload, contractility, and afterload to improve cardiac function and tissue perfusion before the onset of multiorgan dysfunction. Failure of medical therapy needs to be recognized before the onset of irreversible shock. When appropriate, eligible patients should be considered for mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to recovery or transplantation.

Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Rescue in a Patient With Pulmonary Hypertension Presenting for Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report and Narrative Review

Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) are at an increased risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality when undergoing non-cardiac surgery. We present a case of a 57-year-old patient with severe PH, who developed cardiac arrest as the result of right heart failure, undergoing a revision total hip arthroplasty under combined spinal epidural anesthesia. Emergent veno-arterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was undertaken as rescue therapy during the pulmonary hypertensive crisis and a temporizing measure to provide circulatory support in an intensive care unit (ICU). We present a narrative review on perioperative management for patients with PH undergoing non-cardiac surgery. The review goes through the updated hemodynamic definition, clinical classification of PH, perioperative morbidity, and mortality associated with PH in non-cardiac surgery. Pre-operative assessment evaluates the type of surgery, the severity of PH, and comorbidities. General anesthesia (GA) is discussed in detail for patients with PH regarding the benefits of and unsubstantiated arguments against GA in non-cardiac surgery. The literature on risks and benefits of regional anesthesia (RA) in terms of neuraxial, deep plexus, and peripheral nerve block with or without sedation in patients with PH undergoing non-cardiac surgery is reviewed. The choice of anesthesia technique depends on the type of surgery, right ventricle (RV) function, pulmonary artery (PA) pressure, and comorbidities. Given the differences in pathophysiology and mechanical circulatory support (MCS) between the RV and left ventricle (LV), the indications, goals, and contraindications of VA-ECMO as a rescue in cardiopulmonary arrest and pulmonary hypertensive crisis in patients with PH are discussed. Given the significant morbidity and mortality associated with PH, multidisciplinary teams including anesthesiologists, surgeons, cardiologists, pulmonologists, and psychological and social worker support should provide perioperative management.

Preoperative evaluation in thoracic surgery: limits of the patient's functional operability and consequence for perioperative anaesthesiologic management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Preoperative evaluation of older and more morbid patients in thoracic surgery is getting more advanced. In this context, early risk stratification has a crucial role for adequate informed decision-making, and thus for generating favourable effects of clinical outcome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent findings confirm that many risk factors impair mortality and morbidity beyond classical medical findings like results of lung function tests and values of the revised cardiac risk index. Especially results from holistic views on patients' functional status like frailty assessments are linked with long-term survival after lung resection.

SUMMARY

A comprehensive risk stratification by anaesthesiologists generates valuable guidance for the best strategy of clinical treatment. This includes preoperative, peri-operative and postoperative interventions, provided by interdisciplinary healthcare providers, resulting in an Early Risk Stratification and Strategy ('ERSAS') pathway.

Elective lower limb orthopedic arthroplasty surgery in patients with pulmonary hypertension

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (PH) are at increased risk when undergoing anesthesia and major surgery. Data on outcomes for elective orthopedic surgery in patients with PH are limited. A patient pathway was established to provide access to elective lower limb arthroplasty. This included assessment of orthopedic needs, fitness for anesthesia, preoperative optimization, and intra- and postoperative management. Patient data were retrospectively retrieved using patient's hospital records. Between 2012 and 2020, 29 operations (21 total hip replacements [THRs], 7 total knee replacements [TKRs], 1 total hip revision) were performed in 25 patients (mean age: 67 years). Perioperatively, 72% were treated with low-dose intravenous prostanoid. All had arterial lines, and central access and perioperative lithium dilution cardiac output monitoring was used in 86% of cases. Four patients underwent GA, 21 spinal anesthesia, and 4 CSE anesthesia. Supplemental nerve blocks were performed in all patients undergoing general, and 12 of 21 undergoing spinal anesthesia. All were managed in high dependency postoperatively. Hospital length of stay and complication rates were higher than reported in non-PH patients. Perioperative complications included hypotension requiring vasopressors (n = 10), blood transfusion (n = 7), nonorthopedic infection (n = 4), and decompensated right heart failure (n = 1). There was no associated mortality. All implants were functioning well at 6 weeks and subsequent follow-up. EmPHasis-10 quality of score decreased by 5.5 (±2.1) (p = 0.04). A dedicated multiprofessional pathway can be used to safely select and manage patients with PH through elective lower limb arthroplasty.

Non-cardiac surgery in patients with valvular heart disease

In patients with significant valvular heart disease (VHD) undergoing non-cardiac surgery (NCS), perioperative adverse cardiac events are a relevant issue. Although postoperative outcomes can be adversely affected by valve-related haemodynamic instability, recommended perioperative risk scores prioritise the risk of the surgical procedure and the presence of cardiovascular risk factors, neglecting the presence or extent of VHD. Perioperative management and anaesthetic approach should focus on the underlying type and severity of VHD, the compensatory mechanisms deployed by left ventricle and right ventricle and the type and risk of NCS. Due to the lack of randomised trials investigating different therapeutic approaches of valvular intervention prior to NCS, recommendations mainly rely on consensus opinion and inference based on large observational registries. As a general rule, valvular intervention is recommended prior to NCS in symptomatic patients or in those who meet standard criteria for cardiac intervention. In the absence of such conditions, it is reasonable to perform NCS with tailored anaesthetic management and close invasive perioperative haemodynamic monitoring. However, patient-specific management strategies should be discussed with the heart team preoperatively. Symptomatic patients with severe VHD or those undergoing high-risk NCS should ideally be treated at a high-volume medical centre that is equipped to manage haemodynamically complex patients during the perioperative period.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension in adults with congenital heart disease: markers of disease severity, management of advanced heart failure and transplantation

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD) is a progressive, life-limiting disease.

AREAS COVERED

In this paper, we review the classification and pathophysiology of PAH-CHD, including the mechanisms of disease progression and multisystem effects of disease. We evaluate current strategies of risk stratification and the use of biological markers of disease severity, and review principles of management of PAH-CHD. The indications, timing, and the content of advanced heart failure assessment and transplant listing are discussed, along with a review of the types of transplant and other forms of available circulatory support in this group of patients. Finally, the integral role of advance care planning and palliative care is discussed.

EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY

All patients with PAH-CHD should be followed up in expert centers, where they can receive appropriate risk assessment, PAH therapy, and supportive care. Referral for transplant assessment should be considered if there continue to be clinical high-risk features, persistent symptoms, or acute heart failure decompensation despite appropriate PAH specific therapy. Expert management of PAH-CHD patients, therefore, requires vigilance for these features, along with a close relationship with local advanced heart failure services and a working knowledge of listing criteria, which may disadvantage congenital heart disease patients.

Perinatal Management and Long-Term Follow-up of a Primipara With Severe Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Associated With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) accounts for the largest portion of connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in Asian countries, especially in China, and SLE-PAH poses multiple challenges during pregnancy and delivery. Patients with SLE-PAH tend to have lower survival rates and worse quality of life than other subgroups of PAH.

CASE PRESENTATION

Presented in this report is a 28-year-old primipara who suffered from SLE for 13 years and SLE-PAH for nine years. She had cardiac care throughout these years. She was admitted at 26 weeks of gestation for progressive dyspnea on exertion and her condition improved after a three-week PAH-targeted therapy consisting of prostacyclin and PDE-5 inhibitor. At 29 weeks of gestation, she was infected with influenza H1N1 and her clinical status deteriorated with increased dyspnea. After two weeks of influenza therapy and maximization of PAH therapy, a cesarean delivery was performed under epidural anesthesia at 31 weeks of gestation. She was discharged ten days after delivery. Although the targeted therapy for both PAH and SLE was readjusted after delivery and regular follow-up showed a gradual recovery and a stable condition, she still died suddenly at home 12 months after delivery. The child is healthy.

CONCLUSIONS

Sequential combination therapy of PAH and SLE and the structured perinatal management might lead to optimal short-term outcomes in the mother and fetus. Long-term outcomes in women with PAH who become pregnant are poor, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Delivery strategies remain an important challenge for modern Pregnancy Heart Teams.