Transseptal puncture - Review of anatomy, techniques, complications and challenges

Ablation of accessory pathways in different anatomic locations using focal pulsed field ablation

BACKGROUND

Ablation of accessory pathways (APs) is the cornerstone for treatment of patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and manifestation of atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a new type of nonthermal energy source delivered to the underlying tissue via the ablation catheter and used for ablation of arrhythmic substrates.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficiency and long-term outcome of ablation of APs of different localizations using a focal pulsed electrical field.

METHODS

Electrophysiological study was performed in patients with indication for AP ablation. An ablation catheter was used to map the position of AP insertion. Pulsed electric field was delivered through a standard ablation catheter. In left-sided APs, the first ablation attempt was within the coronary sinus (CS). Patient follow-up was scheduled 1-3 months after the ablation. Additional check-up was performed after 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Fourteen 14 patients (3 pediatric) were treated. Termination of AP conduction was achieved in all procedures. The cohort consisted of 3 right free wall, 3 posteroseptal, and 8 left-sided APs. Ablation through CS was successfully used in 7 of 8 patients with left-sided APs. No complications were reported. Median follow-up was 5.5 months. Conduction recurrence through AP was documented in 1 patient.

CONCLUSION

Focal PFA for AP shows promising results in terms of efficacy and safety. A high rate of successful termination of left-sided APs by ablation within CS may represent a new standard approach. The safety and efficacy profile of PFA seems to be transferable to the pediatric population.

Interventions for Pulmonary Vein Stenosis

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a rare and unique disease of infants and young children. PVS is attended by high morbidity and mortality, and for many decades, effective therapy eluded the practitioner. However, in the most recent era, interventional techniques when employed in combination with systemic (primary) therapy have had a remarkable impact on outcomes in these at-risk children. Despite apparent complete relief of PVS in a discrete region of a pulmonary vein, stenosis reliably recurs and progresses. In this review, we discuss the current state-of-the-art interventional techniques, through the lens of our collective experiences and practices.

2023 Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand Expert Position Statement on Catheter and Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) has increased exponentially in many developed countries, including Australia and New Zealand. This Expert Position Statement on Catheter and Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation from the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ) recognises healthcare factors, expertise and expenditure relevant to the Australian and New Zealand healthcare environments including considerations of potential implications for First Nations Peoples. The statement is cognisant of international advice but tailored to local conditions and populations, and is intended to be used by electrophysiologists, cardiologists and general physicians across all disciplines caring for patients with AF. They are also intended to provide guidance to healthcare facilities seeking to establish or maintain catheter ablation for AF.

Integrated dilator-needle transseptal crossing device in atrial fibrillation cryoballoon ablation procedures

INTRODUCTION

In cryoballoon ablation (CBA) procedures, transseptal access (TSA) is generally achieved using a standard sheath and needle system that is exchanged for the cryoballoon delivery sheath and dilator over a long wire. Sheath exchange has been related with air embolic events. Recently, an integrated dilator-needle system assembled to the cryoballoon sheath was introduced. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an integrated TSA tool compared with the traditional approach in atrial fibrillation CBA procedures.

METHODS

Patients scheduled for CBA procedures were randomized 1:1 to traditional TSA (t-TSA) or integrated TSA (i-TSA). TSA time was defined as time from superior vena cava to LA insertion of the cryoballoon delivery sheath, after sheath exchange (t-TSA) or directly (i-TSA).

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients (76 males, mean age 59 ± 10 years) were randomized, 48 patients underwent t-TSA, and 49 i-TSA. Mean TSA time was 5 min 59 s ± 5 min 36 s in the t-TSA group and 2 min 59 s ± 2 min 14 s in the i-TSA group (p < .001). Total fluoroscopy time, skin-to-skin procedure time, and LA dwell time were respectively 15 ± 6, 69 ± 16, and 44 ± 12 min in the t-TSA group and 13 ± 6, 65 ± 15, and 43 ± 11 min in the i-TSA group (p = ns). No clinically significant acute complications related to TSA were noted in both cohorts.

CONCLUSION

This is the first randomized study comparing both TSA approaches. TSA in CBA procedures using this integrated tool enables a safe and efficient workflow, reducing TSA time and avoiding sheath exchange.

Solving difficulties in transseptal sheath crossing: The shoehorn technique

The shoehorn technique is a simple and safe maneuver that can help to solve difficulties in challenging transseptal sheath crossing for atrial fibrillation cryoablation procedures.

A case report of left ventricular lead implantation via total three-dimensional transseptal puncture after tricuspid valve replacement

Background

Ventricular lead implantation is relatively difficult for patients with bradyarrhythmia after tricuspid valve replacement. Right atrial (RA) abnormalities often occurred in patients with tricuspid valve disease; conventional coronary sinus (CS) lead implantation is not easy to operate. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a safe method for implanting LV endocardial leads in patients after tricuspid valve replacement.

Case presentation

A 76-year-old Asian woman who had been implanted with a metal tricuspid valve replacement 4 years ago was admitted to the Department of Cardiology for pacemaker implantation due to transient blackout related to persistent atrial fibrillation with long pauses. The patient's family rejected the surgical placement of an epicardial LV lead. Therefore, we first intended to operate LV lead implantation through the CS; however, the orifice of the CS was virtually difficult to seek. Ultimately, we utilized total 3-dimensional (T3D) transseptal puncture (TSP) under the guidance of the CARTO 3 system; thus, we implanted the LV endocardial lead, which contributed to the accurate puncture of the central fossa ovalis and ensured the safety of TSP in the case of RA enlargement. Meanwhile, the CARTO 3 system contributed to the localization of the LV lead to the LV free wall during implantation. All the intraoperative and postoperative pacemaker parameters were favorable; no intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusions

This case report may provide a novel surgical approach for LV lead implantation in patients who underwent tricuspid valve replacement or patients who may benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy but failed to implant CS lead.

Case report: pulmonary artery perforation during transseptal puncture for left atrial appendage closure requires emergency cardiac operation

Patients with atrial fibrillation who take a high bleeding risk and are not candidates for oral anticoagulation therapy are increasingly being referred for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) as an alternative method of stroke prevention. However, certain manipulations performed during the LAAC procedure, such as transseptal puncture (TSP), may potentially result in vessel injury and lead to cardiac tamponade or even fatality. Clinical significance and management strategies associated with these complications remain controversial. A 74-year-old female patient with atrial fibrillation was referred for left atrial appendage occlusion. During the puncture of the atrial septum, the catheter sheath inadvertently exited through the roof of the right atrium and continued to advance, resulting in pulmonary artery perforation. The patient underwent immediate pericardiocentesis and drainage, followed by surgical exploration for suturing the tear in the pulmonary artery and ligation of the left atrial appendage. This represents the first reported case of a pulmonary artery perforation occurring during a transseptal puncture procedure for left atrial appendage closure. The case exemplifies the feasibility of emergency cardiac surgery as a therapeutic intervention.

Transseptal puncture for left atrial ablation: risk factors for cardiac tamponade and a proposed causative classification system

Aims

Cardiac tamponade is a high morbidity complication of transseptal puncture (TSP). We examined the associations of TSP‐related cardiac tamponade (TRCT) for all patients undergoing left atrial ablation at our center from 2016 to 2020.

Methods and Results

Patient and procedural variables were extracted retrospectively. Cases of cardiac tamponade were scrutinized to adjudicate TSP culpability. Adjusted multivariate analysis examined predictors of TRCT. A total of 3239 consecutive TSPs were performed; cardiac tamponade occurred in 51 patients (incidence: 1.6%) and was adjudicated as TSP‐related in 35 (incidence: 1.1%; 68.6% of all tamponades). Patients of above‐median age [odds ratio (OR): 2.4 (1.19–4.2), p = .006] and those undergoing re‐do procedures [OR: 1.95 (1.29–3.43, p = .042] were at higher risk of TRCT. Of the operator‐dependent variables, choice of transseptal needle (Endrys vs. Brockenbrough, p > .1) or puncture sheath (Swartz vs. Mullins vs. Agilis vs. Vizigo vs. Cryosheath, all p > .1) did not predict TRCT. Adjusting for operator, equipment and demographics, failure to cross the septum first pass increased TRCT risk [OR: 4.42 (2.45–8.2), p = .001], whilst top quartile operator experience [OR: 0.4 (0.17–0.85), p = .002], transoesophageal echocardiogram [TOE prevalence: 26%, OR: 0.51 (0.11–0.94), p = .023], and use of the SafeSept transseptal guidewire [OR: 0.22 (0.08–0.62), p = .001] reduced TRCT risk. An increase in transseptal guidewire use over time (2016: 15.6%, 2020: 60.2%) correlated with an annual reduction in TRCT (R² = 0.72, p < .001) and was associated with a relative risk reduction of 70%.

Conclusions

During left atrial ablation, the risk of TRCT was reduced by operator experience, TOE‐guidance, and use of a transseptal guidewire, and was increased by patient age, re‐do procedures, and failure to cross the septum first pass.

Iatrogenic atrial septal defect persistence after percutaneous mitral valve repair: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) requires a puncture of the atrial septum, resulting in iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD), which usually causes a transient left-to-right shunt. However, the influencing risk factors for iASD persistence and functional consequences are not fully understood. This meta-analysis aimed to summarise available data on the persistence of iASD following PMVR.

METHODS

The authors conducted a literature search in PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify studies investigating iASD persistence in PMVR patients.

RESULTS

Six observational studies (n = 361) met inclusion criteria for the final analysis. Prevalence of persistent iASD was documented with 28% after 12 months follow-up. iASD size increased over time with a diameter of 5.3 ± 0.76 mm after one month and 6.5 ± 0.21 mm after 12 months. Possible predictors of iASD persistence after PMVR appeared to be pre-existing AF (RR 1.24; p = .03), residual mitral regurgitation > II° (RR 2.06; p = .03) and prolonged fluoroscopic time (RR 8.27; p = .01). Patients with iASD persistence had a higher risk for development of right heart overload regarding the increased area of the right atrium (MD 5.24; p = .004) and enlarged diameter of the right ventricle (MD 3.33; p < .0001). Rehospitalization was more frequently reported in iASD patients (RR 9.52; p = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis proved iASD persistence in 28% of PMVR after 12 months follow-up with a higher risk for right heart volume overload and more frequent rehospitalization compared to patients without iASD persistence. Since percutaneous catheter-based treatments with transseptal approaches are rising, further evidence about the hemodynamic impact of persistent iASD is warranted.

Computed tomography-based selection of transseptal puncture site for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure

BACKGROUND

An inferoposterior transseptal puncture (TSP) is generally recommended for percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. However, the LAA is a highly variable anatomical structure. This may have an impact on the preferred TSP site.

AIMS

This study aimed to determine the optimal TSP site for percutaneous LAA closure in different LAA morphologies.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 182 patients undergoing percutaneous LAA closure were included. The spatial relationship of the LAA to the fossa ovalis and its consequence for TSP was assessed at preprocedural cardiac computed tomography (CCT).

RESULTS

Based on CCT analysis, it was predicted that coaxial alignment between the delivery sheath and the LAA would be obtained by an inferoposterior, inferocentral, or inferoanterior TSP in 75%, 16% and 8% of cases, respectively. This was also confirmed by procedural LAA angiogram in 175 cases (96%) with <30° angle between the delivery sheath and the LAA central axis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified reverse chicken wing LAA (odds ratio [OR] 6.36 [1.85-29.3]; p=0.005) and posterior bending of the proximal LAA (OR 17.2 [3.3-96.2]; p<0.001) as independent predictors of a central or anterior TSP - this to increase the chance of obtaining coaxial alignment between the delivery sheath and the LAA.

CONCLUSIONS

An inferoposterior TSP is recommended in the majority of percutaneous LAA closure procedures in order to obtain coaxial alignment between the delivery sheath and the LAA. An inferior but more central/anterior TSP should be recommended in case of a reverse chicken wing LAA or posterior bending of the proximal LAA, which occurs in 20-25% of cases.

Cardiac Computed Tomography: Application in Valvular Heart Disease

The incidence and prevalence of valvular heart disease (VHD) is increasing and has been described as the next cardiac epidemic. Advances in imaging and therapeutics have revolutionized how we assess and treat patients with VHD. Although echocardiography continues to be the first-line imaging modality to assess the severity and the effects of VHD, advances in cardiac computed tomography (CT) now provide novel insights into VHD. Transcatheter valvular interventions rely heavily on CT guidance for procedural planning, predicting and detecting complications, and monitoring prosthesis. This review focuses on the current role and future prospects of CT in the assessment of aortic and mitral valves for transcatheter interventions, prosthetic valve complications such as thrombosis and endocarditis, and assessment of the myocardium.

Novel technique for recanalization of severe hepaticojejunal obstruction using a transseptal needle in a pediatric liver transplant recipient

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic and PTB interventions are common nonsurgical interventions for biliary anastomotic strictures that occur after liver transplantation. When these nonsurgical interventions fail, surgical re-anastomosis is considered; however, this is quite invasive and can cause additional injury that may lead to graft loss. We report a case in which conventional nonsurgical interventions failed, but a new method that involve the use of a transseptal needle-a device to create a transseptal left-heart access during cardiac catheter interventions-was successfully used in recanalization of the hepaticojejunal anastomotic obstruction.

CASE

A 21-year-old man, who had received living-donor liver transplantation for biliary atresia at the age of 23 months presented with recurrent cholangitis and liver dysfunction due to a biliary anastomotic stricture of the hepaticojejunostomy. Therapeutic interventions for biliary stricture, including the PTB approach, double-balloon enteroscopic approach, and rendezvous approach failed. We then performed needle puncture of the anastomotic obstruction using a transseptal needle and succeeded in recanalizing the complete anastomotic obstruction. To perform the procedures safely, we evaluated the organ and needle positions using biplane fluoroscopy and placed a balloon in the afferent jejunal limb as a target for puncture. The 12 Fr catheter via the biliary route was removed 7 months after the procedure, without using a catheter, there was no recurrent stricture or cholangitis for 26 months.

CONCLUSION

Using a transseptal needle to manage hepaticojejunal anastomotic obstruction can reduce the number of patients who need surgical re-anastomosis.

Transseptal puncture: Review of anatomy, techniques, complications and challenges, a critical view

Transseptal puncture (TSP) was initially described to gain access to the left heart for hemodynamic assessment. Continuous evolution from its origins allows interventionists to perform a myriad of procedures that otherwise would be impossible to accomplish. In the recent years, the number of procedures in cardiology that require TSP has grown exponentially. Namely, transcatheter mitral valve repair and replacement, pulmonary vein isolation and left atrium appendage occlusion. In skilled hands, it is a safe and straightforward procedure; however, a lack of knowledge of the materials, anatomy of the interatrial septum and the technique can be met with life-threatening complications. Therefore, it is imperative that interventional cardiologists master this technique to successfully overcome these obstacles and ensure clinical outcomes in patients requiring TSP. The purpose of the following review is to critically analyze the available evidence regarding TSP, provide a step-by-step approach to the technique, the available materials and tips and tricks to overcome difficulties and manage complications.

Randomized trial of conventional versus radiofrequency needle transseptal puncture for cryoballoon ablation: the CRYO-LATS trial

BACKGROUND

Transseptal puncture to achieve left atrial access is necessary for many cardiac procedures, including atrial fibrillation ablation. More recently, there has been an increasing need for left atrial access using large caliber sheaths, which increases risk of perforation associated with the initial advancement into the left atrium. We compared the effectiveness of a radiofrequency needle-based transseptal system versus conventional needle for transseptal access.

METHODS

This prospective controlled trial randomized 161 patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation to transseptal access with a commercially available transseptal system (radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire; RF + Pigtail group) versus conventional transseptal access (standard group). The primary outcome was time required for left atrial access. Secondary outcomes included failure of the assigned transseptal system, radiation exposure, and complications.

RESULTS

The median transseptal puncture time was significantly shorter using the radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire transseptal system compared with conventional transseptal (840 ± 323 vs. 956 ± 407 s, P = 0.0489). Compared to conventional transseptal puncture, fewer transseptal attempts were required (1.0 ± 0.5 RF applications vs. 1.3 ± 0.8 mechanical punctures, P = 0.0123) and the fluoroscopy time was significantly shorter (72.0 [IQR 48.0, 129.0] vs. 93.0 [IQR 60.0, 171.0] s, P = 0.0490) with the radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire transseptal system. Failure to achieve transseptal LA access with the assigned system was rarely observed (1.3% vs. 5.7%, P = 0.2192). There were no procedural complications observed with either system.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a radiofrequency needle plus stiff pigtail wire resulted in shorter time to left atrial access and reduced fluoroscopy time compared to left atrial access using conventional transseptal equipment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03199703.

Heart failure caused by iatrogenic atrial septal defect after cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation

An 83-year-old man with no structural heart disease underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). The PVI was successfully performed by cryoballoon ablation with a single transseptal puncture. A 12Fr deflectable sheath and an 8.5Fr long sheath crossed the interatrial septum via the same puncture site. Five months after PVI, the patient was readmitted because of heart failure and recurrence of AF. The echocardiogram showed a large (10.7 × 5.8 mm) iatrogenic atrial septal defect (IASD) at the previous puncture site. Both right-to-left and left-to-right shunts were observed during systole and diastole, respectively. Despite the initiation of optimal medical therapy for heart failure, symptoms were not completely controlled and IASD remained 11 months after PVI. Eventually, he received multiple additional PVI for recurrence of AF and percutaneous transcatheter closure (13 mm disc for 10.9 × 8.9 mm- IASD), then heart failure was controlled with the improvement of the right atrial and ventricular size. Although the induction of heart failure by IASD after PVI is rare, it should be noted as one of the causes, especially after cryoballoon ablation with simultaneous mapping catheter insertion via a single transseptal puncture. <Learning objective: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the established therapy for atrial fibrillation; however, it may cause several complications including iatrogenic atrial septal defect (IASD). IASD is less apparent than other complications, therefore it may be underrecognized. Although the induction of heart failure by IASD after PVI is rare, it should be noted as one of the causes, especially after cryoballoon ablation with simultaneous circular mapping catheter insertion via a single transseptal puncture.>.

Angiographic features of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations: a new imaging classification system, BRAND, to guide embolisation

AIM

To introduce a new classification system for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) based on the BRanches, ANgles and Diameter of the feeding artery (BRAND), which is intended provide a better understanding of the vascular structure of PAVMs and facilitate the selection of therapeutic strategies for embolisation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients with PAVMs from 2005 to 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. According to angiographic morphology, classified the PAVMs using the BRAND classification.

RESULTS

A total of 41 PAVMs were treated with transcatheter embolisation. Based on the BRAND classification, there were four branches (9.8%), four acute angles (9.8%), and 32 occlusion sites >4 mm in diameter (78%). A total of 30 PAVMs (73.2%) were treated with occluders and plugs while the rest were embolised with coils (26.8%). Immediate technical success was achieved in all patients. In feeding arteries with acute angles, balloon-assisted tracking and trans-septal puncture techniques were used to facilitate the advancement of delivery systems. All origins of branches were preserved. Mean SaO₂ increased significantly from 79.5 ± 7.5% before embolisation to 92 ± 5.3% after embolisation (p<0.05). During a median follow-up of 5.4 years, two patients (9.5%) developed new PAVMs and required a second procedure. One patient (4.8%) underwent repeat embolisation due to the reperfusion of previously embolised PAVMs with coils.

CONCLUSIONS

BRAND classification is well suited to address the challenging feeding arteries of PAVMs and allow precise placement of the delivery system, leading to minimal procedural risk and high success rates.

Multimodality Imaging of the Anatomy of the Aortic Root

The aortic root has long been considered an inert unidirectional conduit between the left ventricle and the ascending aorta. In the classical definition, the aortic valve leaflets (similar to what is perceived for the atrioventricular valves) have also been considered inactive structures, and their motion was thought to be entirely passive—just driven by the fluctuations of ventricular–aortic gradients. It was not until the advent of aortic valve–sparing surgery and of transcatheter aortic valve implantation that the interest on the anatomy of the aortic root again took momentum. These new procedures require a systematic and thorough analysis of the fine anatomical details of the components of the so-called aortic valve apparatus. Although holding and dissecting cadaveric heart specimens remains an excellent method to appreciate the complex “three-dimensional” nature of the aortic root, nowadays, echocardiography, computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance provide excellent images of cardiac anatomy both in two- and three-dimensional format. Indeed, modern imaging techniques depict the aortic root as it is properly situated within the thorax in an attitudinally correct cardiac orientation, showing a sort of “dynamic anatomy”, which admirably joins structure and function. Finally, they are extensively used before, during, and after percutaneous structural heart disease interventions. This review focuses on the anatomy of the aortic root as revealed by non-invasive imaging techniques.

Left atrial decompression as a palliative minimally invasive treatment for congestive heart failure caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs: 17 cases (2018-2019)

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether left atrial decompression (LAD) would reduce left atrial pressure (LAP) in dogs with advanced myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and left-sided congestive heart failure (CHF) and to describe the LAD procedure and hemodynamic alterations and complications.

ANIMALS

17 dogs with advanced MMVD and left-sided CHF that underwent LAD.

PROCEDURES

The medical record database was retrospectively reviewed for all LAD procedures attempted in dogs with MMVD and left-sided CHF between October 2018 and June 2019. Data were collected regarding signalment (age, breed, weight, and sex), clinical signs, treatment, physical examination findings, and diagnostic testing before and after LAD. Procedural data were also collected including approach, technique, hemodynamic data, complications, and outcome.

RESULTS

18 LAD procedures performed in 17 patients were identified. Dogs ranged in age from 7.5 to 16 years old (median, 11 years) and ranged in body weight from 2.9 to 11.6 kg (6.4 to 25.5 lb) with a median body weight of 7.0 kg (15.4 lb). Minimally invasive creation of an atrial septal defect for the purpose of LAD was successful in all dogs without any intraoperative deaths. Before LAD, mean LAP was elevated and ranged from 8 to 32 mm Hg with a median value of 14 mm Hg (reference value, < 10 mm Hg). Following LAD, there was a significant decrease in mean LAP (median decrease of 6 mm Hg [range, 1 to 15 mm Hg]). Survival time following LAD ranged from 0 to 478 days (median, 195 days).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

For dogs with advanced MMVD and left-sided CHF, LAD resulted in an immediate and substantial reduction in LAP.

Management of ascending aorta perforation during transseptal puncture for left atrial appendage closure: a case report

Background

An 82-year-old female with a history of atrial fibrillation and repeated episodes of major bleeding on direct oral anticoagulant therapy, with a high risk for thromboembolism and was referred for left atrial appendage closure.

Case summary

During the procedure, an unrecognized puncture of the aorta by the transseptal puncture (TSP) needle and inadvertent advancement of the sheath resulted in ascending aorta perforation. This perforation was closed percutaneously using an Amplatzer™ Duct Occluder (ADO). Reversal of heparinization with protamine sulphate was given to avoid intractable bleeding. However, this resulted in thrombus formation and subsequent embolization causing an ST-elevation myocardial infarction. This was treated with balloon dilatation and thrombus aspiration with subsequent Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 3 flow.

Discussion

Inadvertent ascending aorta perforation is a rare yet serious complication that can occur during TSP. Percutaneous closure using an ADO is a viable management option. The reversal of heparin carries a risk of thrombus formation and should be avoided in cases where there is no evidence of overt bleeding.

Iatrogenic atrial septal defect after percutaneous left atrial appendage closure: a single-center study

There is conflicting evidence regarding the significance of iatrogenic atrial septal defects (iASDs) after transseptal puncture during percutaneous cardiac interventions. To study the clinical outcome of iASD after percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAo). Single-center, retrospective study of 70 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous LAAo between May 2010 and August 2017, and subsequent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) at 1 month. The sample population was divided into two groups: A (with iASD, 22 (37%) patients) and B (no iASD, 44 (63%) patients). Procedures were guided either by TEE (36 patients (54%)) or intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) from the left atrium (30 patients (46%)). The primary end point was presence of iASD at 1 month, and secondary end points included mortality, hospital admission due to heart failure (HF), and right atrium (RA) size during follow-up. 70 patients were included in this study and the prevalence of iASD at 1 month was 37%. The use of ICE was associated with iASD (adjusted odds ratio, 3.79; 95% CI 1.27-11.34). The presence of iASD was not associated with adverse events (mortality, 15.4% vs 20.5%; P = 0.60; HF hospitalizations, 7.7% vs 13.6%, P = 0.45; and RA area, 24.8 ± 7.0 cm² vs 22.2 ± 6.8 cm², P = 0.192). At 1-month follow-up after LAAo, iASD was present in one third of patients, but was not associated with clinical outcomes. The use of ICE was associated with a higher risk of short-term iASD.

3-Dimensional Transseptal Puncture Based on Electrographic Characteristics of Fossa Ovalis: A Fluoroscopy-Free and Echocardiography-Free Method

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to define electrographic characteristics of the fossa ovalis (FO) and use these findings in developing a 3-dimensional (3D) transseptal puncture (TSP) technique that does not rely on fluoroscopy or echocardiography.

BACKGROUND

Traditional TSP method based on fluoroscopy or echocardiography is basically a 2-dimensional (2D) technique. A valid 3D method of TSP has not been sufficiently clarified.

METHODS

The shape of the FO and its center were "electrographically" defined by comparing their potential characteristics to those of the surrounding limbus. After validation by intracardiac echocardiography, this FO mapping was incorporated into 3D electroanatomical reconstruction of the right atrium. Using a new catheter connection, the transseptal needle could be visualized nonfluoroscopically and directed to the precise localization of the FO on the electroanatomic map.

RESULTS

A total of 276 patients who underwent atrial fibrillation ablation were included. The central FO was identified in all cases with atrial electrogram voltage at 0.33 ± 0.21 mV. The amplitude of atrial potential at the FO annulus was 1.70 ± 0.72 mV (p < 0.001). By incorporating the electrographically defined FO into the 3D electroanatomic mapping and using the transseptal needle visualization approach, TSP was successful in all patients, with 91% of the cases at the first attempt. Atrial fibrillation ablation was completed in all patients with no major complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Electrographic characteristics of the FO center are distinct from those of the surrounding regions. This information can be leveraged to define the FO on 3D electroanatomic mappings, thereby facilitating safe TSP without the need of ancillary imaging with fluoroscopy or echocardiography.

Extraluminal recanalization for postoperative biliary obstruction using transseptal needle

BACKGROUND

Postoperative biliary strictures are commonly related to accidental bile duct injuries or occur at the site of biliary anastomosis. The first-line treatment for benign biliary strictures is endoscopic therapy, which is less invasive and repeatable. However, recanalization for biliary complete obstruction is technically challenging to treat. The present report describes a successful case of treatment by extraluminal recanalization for postoperative biliary obstruction using a transseptal needle.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 66-year-old woman had undergone caudal lobectomy for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. The posterior segmental branch of the bile duct was injured and repaired intraoperatively. Three months after the surgery, the patient had developed biliary leakage from the right hepatic bile duct, resulting in complete biliary obstruction. Since intraluminal recanalization with conventional endoscopic and percutaneous approaches with a guidewire failed, extraluminal recanalization using a transseptal needle with an internal lumen via percutaneous approach was performed under fluoroscopic guidance. The left lateral inferior segmental duct was punctured, and an 8-F transseptal sheath was introduced into the ostium of right hepatic duct. A transseptal needle was advanced, and the right hepatic duct was punctured by targeting an inflated balloon that was placed at the end of the obstructed right hepatic bile duct. After confirming successful puncture using contrast agent injected through the internal lumen of the needle, a 0.014-in. guidewire was advanced into the right hepatic duct. Finally, an 8.5-F internal-external biliary drainage tube was successfully placed without complications. One month after the procedure, the drainage tube was replaced with a 10.2-F drainage tube to dilate the created tract. Subsequent endoscopic internalization was performed 5 months after the procedure. At the 1-year follow-up examination, there was no sign of biliary obstruction and recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Recanalization using a transseptal needle can be an alternative technique for rigid biliary obstruction when conventional techniques fail.

Prevalence of intra-atrial reentrant tachycardia following mitral valve surgery: Relationship to surgical approach

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Mitral valve (MV) surgeries create electrophysiological substrates that give rise to postoperative arrhythmias. MV surgical procedures have been associated with macro- and microreentrant arrhythmogenic circuits, as well as circuits involving the atrial roof. It is not well understood why such arrhythmias develop; therefore, the aim of this study was to describe clinical and procedure characteristics associated with atrial arrhythmias in patients with prior MV surgery.

METHODS

This retrospective chart review evaluated patients who had prior MV surgery and ablation procedures for atrial tachycardia between 2014 and 2018 (n = 20). Patients were classified into those exhibiting typical atrial flutter or another atrial tachyarrhythmia.

RESULTS

Within the 20 patient cases reviewed, 30 arrhythmias were documented. Two-thirds of arrhythmias were typical atrial flutter; the percent incidence of arrhythmias originating in the right atrial (RA) roof, around the right atriotomy scar, in the left atrium, and at the crista terminalis was 20%, 3%, 7%, and 7%, respectively. Nearly every case of RA roof flutter (n = 5/6) and most arrhythmias (n = 20/30) occurred in patients who had a transseptal approach during MV surgery. Voltage maps did not show clear differences in scarring between groups.

CONCLUSION

Results from this study suggest that an arrhythmogenic substrate for RA roof tachycardias is generated by transseptal approaches for MV surgery. This substrate is not clearly related to a surgical scar. These data suggest that other approaches should be considered for MV surgeries. Additionally, more research is needed to determine the mechanism for this nonscar-related arrhythmia substrate.

3D printing tissue-mimicking materials for realistic transseptal puncture models

Applications of additive manufacturing (commonly referred to as 3D printing) in direct fabrication of models for pre-surgical planning, functional testing, and medical training are on the rise. However, one current limitation to the accuracy of models for cardiovascular procedural training is a lack of printable materials that accurately mimic human tissue. Most of the available elastomeric materials lack mechanical properties representative of human tissues. To address the gap, the authors explore the multi-material capability of material jetting additive manufacturing to combine non-curing and photo-curing inks to achieve material properties that more closely replicate human tissues. The authors explore the impact of relative material concentration on tissue-relevant properties from puncture and tensile testing under submerged conditions. Further, the authors demonstrate the ability to mimic the mechanical properties of the fossa ovalis, which proves beneficial for accurately simulating transseptal punctures. A fossa ovalis mimic was printed and assembled within a full patient-specific heart model for validation, where it exhibited accuracy in both mechanical properties and geometry. The explored material combination provides the opportunity to fabricate future medical models that are more realistic and better suited for pre-surgical planning and medical student training. This will ultimately guide safer, more efficient practices.

Catheter steering in interventional cardiology: Mechanical analysis and novel solution

In recent years, steerable catheters have been developed to combat the effects of the dynamic cardiac environment. Mechanically actuated steerable catheters appear the most in the clinical setting; however, they are bound to a number of mechanical limitations. The aim of this research is to gain insight in these limitations and use this information to develop a new prototype of a catheter with increased steerability. The main limitations in mechanically steerable catheters are identified and analysed, after which requirements and solutions are defined to design a multi-steerable catheter. Finally, a prototype is built and a proof-of-concept test is carried out to analyse the steering functions. The mechanical analysis results in the identification of five limitations: (1) low torsion, (2) shaft shortening, (3) high unpredictable friction, (4) coupled tip-shaft movements, and (5) complex cardiac environment. Solutions are found to each of the limitations and result in the design of a novel multi-steerable catheter with four degrees of freedom. A prototype is developed which allows the dual-segmented tip to be steered over multiple planes and in multiple directions, allowing a range of complex motions including S-shaped curves and circular movements. A detailed analysis of limitations underlying mechanically steerable catheters has led to a new design for a multi-steerable catheter for complex cardiac interventions. The four integrated degrees of freedom provide a high variability of tip directions, and repetition of the bending angle is relatively simple and reliable. The ability to steer inside the heart with a variety of complex shaped curves may potentially change conventional approaches in interventional cardiology towards more patient-specific and lower complexity procedures. Future directions are headed towards further design optimizations and the experimental validation of the prototype.

Acute Procedural Complications of Cryoballoon Ablation: A Comprehensive Review

Catheter ablation is increasingly performed for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Balloon based procedures have been developed aiming at safer, easier and more effective treatment as compared to point to point ablation. In the present review article, we aimed to discuss acute procedural complications of cryoballoon ablation.

Prospective evaluation of iatrogenic atrial septal defect after cryoballoon or radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation-"EVITA" study

PURPOSE

Iatrogenic atrial septal defect (IASD) after catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) due to transseptal puncture (TSP) can occur. The aim of this prospective study was to describe the incidence of IASD and to detect any cerebrovascular accident (CVA) after radiofrequency (RF) and cryoballoon (CB) CA.

METHODS

Between July 2014 and September 2016, 94 patients (pts) (RF; 48, CB; 46, 30 (31.9%) women, mean age = 60 ± 9.7 years) with paroxysmal AF were enrolled who underwent CA procedure for the first time. During RF ablation a single (n = 30, 62.5%) or double (n = 18, 37.5%) TSP was performed. Transoesophageal echocardiography before the procedure and at the 3-month and 12-month follow-up (FU) was accomplished. During the FU period, we evaluated the occurrence of any postprocedural CVA.

RESULTS

At the 3-month FU, IASD was detected in 17/94 (18.1%) pts; in 9/48 (18.8%) pts in the RF while in 8/46 (17.4%) pts in the CB group (p = 0.866), all of them with left-to-right shunt. In the RF group, 6/30 (20%) pts with a single TSP while 3/18 (16.7%) pts in the double TSP group had IASD (p = 0.780). 14/17 (82.4%) IASDs showed high spontaneous closure rate at the 12-month FU. None of the pts died or suffered from CVA.

CONCLUSION

Persistent IASD can occur rather frequently following AF CA. No significant difference was observed between the RF and CB techniques concerning the presence of IASD at 3-month. IASDs showed a high spontaneous closure rate. No cerebral thromboembolic event was observed in the 12-month FU period.

Successful percutaneous transhepatic recanalization of a completely obstructed hepatico-jejunal anastomosis in a child with liver transplantation: Unusual employment of the transseptal puncture system

Stenosis of the HJ is a common complication of pediatric split LT with high morbidity and possible evolution to secondary biliary cirrhosis and re-transplantation if not treated. Because the endoscopy is generally infeasible in the Roux-en-Y, percutaneous interventional radiology management is usually the safest and most effective approach to avoid surgical revision of a stenotic bilio-enteric anastomosis. We present the case of a child with acute onset of cholestasis 7 months after left lateral segment partial LT due to occlusion of the HJ. The biliary stricture was found to be non-crossable with conventional interventional radiological techniques. The obstruction was resolved creating a new bilio-digestive communication via percutaneous transhepatic approach using the TPS. This device is usually employed by the interventional cardiologist to perform some procedures requiring the direct access to the left atrium through interatrial septal puncture. In conclusion, percutaneous transhepatic recanalization of the hepato-jejuno anastomosis is a rare but feasible and valuable procedure alternative to the surgical resolution even in small infants. Although few cases have been reported in literature, it has to be considered an additional treatment option when the conventional approaches fail.

Evasion maneuver for transseptal approach during cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation

Purpose

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a cornerstone therapy in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation. One current method is performing a PVI using a cryoballoon (CB). The CB is inserted into the left atrium via a steerable sheath. However, at times, passing of the interatrial septum by the sheath is hindered, e.g., due to septal fibrosis. Here we report our experience with an evasion maneuver to facilitate this approach using a 6F multipolar and steerable coronary Sinus catheter (CS) for predilatation of the interatrial septum.

Methods and results

We report 10 patients undergoing a CB-PVI, where the investigator experienced difficulties in passing the interatrial septum with the CB sheath. In these cases, after three conventional abortive attempts, we predilated the transseptal puncture site using both the CS catheter and the dilatator of the CB sheath. Thereafter access of the CB sheath to the left atrium could be achieved instantly and without further resistance.

Conclusion

We report a safe and feasible maneuver to facilitate transseptal access with the CB steerable sheath in cases complicated by excessive interatrial resistance.

The influence of iatrogenic interatrial septum leaks after left atrial appendage closure on cardiac function test results

AIM

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is a technique for preventing thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation and a high risk of irreversible bleeding. In some patients, a spontaneous iatrogenic transseptal leak (ITL) remains after LAAO. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between ITL incidence and the results of cardiac function tests in patients who underwent LAAO.

METHODS AND RESULTS

LAOO was performed in 62 consecutive patients using the Amplatzer Amulet. Before and 3 months after LAA occlusion, the 6-min walking distance (6MWD) test was performed in all patients and oxygen consumption assessment (VO_2max ) was performed in 32. All patients had transesophageal echocardiography before and 3 months after LAAO to assess ITL incidence. The patients were divided according to the presence and absence of ITL and the subgroup of patients with heart failure (HF) were further analyzed. In patients with HF and ITL, an increased VO_2max (12.8 ± 5.2 vs 15.3 ± 4.7; P < 0.05) and 6MWD (350.1 ± 77.4 vs 414.3 ± 70.6; P < 0.05) was observed after the procedure comparing to the results before the procedure. The 6MWD was also significantly higher in the patients with transseptal leaks in comparison to those without (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The presence of transseptal leaks after LAAO does not influence overall cardiac function test results. However, in patients with HF, there is an increase in oxygen consumption and 6MWD. These results indicate that ITLs in patients with HF decrease left atrial pressure, which is the key contributor to the symptoms of heart failure during physical activity.

Transseptal Access to the Left Atrium: Tips and Tricks to Keep it Safe Derived from Single Operator Experience and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Transseptal puncture (TSP) remains a demanding procedural step in accessing the left atrium with inherent risks and safety concerns, mostly related to cardiac tamponade.

OBJECTIVE

Based on our own experience with 249 TSP procedures and in-depth literature review, we present our results and offer several tips and tricks that may render TSP successful and safe.

METHODS

This prospective study comprised 249 consecutive patients (146 men), aged 41.6±17.4 years, undergoing TSP by a single operator for ablation of a variety of arrhythmias, mostly related to left accessory pathways (n=145) or left atrial tachycardias (n=33) and more recently, atrial fibrillation (n=70). TSP was guided by fluoroscopy alone in all patients without the use of echocardiography imaging. In addition, an extensive literature review of TSP-related topics was carried out in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

Among 249 patients, 33 patients were children or young adolescents (aged 7-18 years); 14 patients were undergoing a repeat procedure. Patients with a manifest accessory pathway were the youngest (mean age 33.7±15.9) and patients with atrial fibrillation the oldest (mean age 56.0±10.8 years). A successful TSP was accomplished in 247 patients (99.2%). Two (0.8%) procedures were complicated by cardiac tamponade managed successfully with pericardiocentesis or surgical drainage. Review of the literature revealed no systematic reviews and meta-analyses of TSP studies; however, several patient series have documented that fluoroscopy-guided TSP, with various modifications in the technique employed in the present series, have been effective in 95-100% of the cases with a complication rate ranging from 0.0% to 6.7%, albeit with a mortality rate of 0.018%- 0.2%. Echo imaging techniques were employed in cases with difficult TSP.

CONCLUSION

Employing a standardized protocol with use of fluoroscopy alone minimized serious complications to 0.8% (2 patients) among 249 consecutive patients undergoing TSP for ablation of a variety of cardiac arrhythmias. Based on this single-operator experience and review of the literature, a list of practical tips and tricks is provided for a successful and safe procedure, reserving the more expensive and patient inconveniencing echo-imaging techniques for difficult or failed cases.

Percutaneous Valve in Valve Implantation for Dysfunctional Bioprosthetic Valves: A Case Report

Percutaneous valve-in-valve therapy is a life-saving procedure for patients at high risk of reoperation due to dysfunctional bioprosthetic valves. We have reviewed 3 typical cases of a valve-in-valve procedure using high-quality images to demonstrate the suitability of this method for aortic, mitral, and tricuspid positions. Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography combined with other modalities such as computerized tomography and fluoroscopy are key elements for anesthesia and procedural guidance, especially as immediate tools to assess valvular function and specific procedure-related complications.

Recognizing and reacting to complications of trans-septal puncture

INTRODUCTION

The transseptal puncture (TSP) enables access to the left heart, through the fossa ovalis (FO), both in electrophysiology and in cardiac interventional procedures. TSP is usually safe in experienced hands. Sometimes TSP can be technically demanding and carries the risk of severe complications in approximately 1%. While performing a TSP, every effort should be taken in order to avoid complications. In the event of complications, prompt recognition and reaction are essential and a combined 'heart-team' management may be the most effective approach. Areas covered: Main TSP-related complications are cardiac tamponade, aortic root puncture, embolic stroke, transient ST elevation of inferior leads and iatrogenic atrial septal defect. A challenging TSP may be expected in presence of difficult IAS-FO anatomies, previous TSP, IAS occluder device and previous IAS surgical repair. Use of echo imaging and special needles (ie., radiofrequency needle and J-shaped guidewire) may avoid TSP-related complications in difficult settings. Expert commentary: Some tools are available to help minimize the risks of TSP. However, their availability might be limited. To increase safety of TSP, an adequate training of physicians, identification of patients in whom it might be difficult and a prompt recognition of complications seem to be the most important background.

Cryoballoon ablation with left lateral decubitus position in atrial fibrillation patient where the left atrium was compressed by the vertebra

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation is difficult when the left atrium is compressed by the vertebra. The heart may shift forward, and compression of the left atrium may be relieved in the left lateral decubitus position. Therefore, catheter ablation could be performed in the left lateral decubitus position even in such cases.