2020 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Valvular Heart Disease: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

Impact of moderate or severe mitral and tricuspid valves regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and mitral regurgitation (MR) are common valvular conditions encountered in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This retrospective study investigates the impact of moderate or severe TR and MR on all-cause mortality in 1-year post-TAVR patients.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent TAVR at the 3 academic tertiary care centers in our health system between 2012 and 2018 were identified. Patients were stratified into 2 groups based on valvular regurgitation severity: moderate/severe MR vs no/mild MR, and moderate/severe TR vs no/mild TR. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality at 1-year and 5-year follow up, and secondary outcome was in-hospital death. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between moderate/severe MR or TR and all-cause mortality at 1-year and 5-year follow-up.

RESULTS

We included a total of 1,071 patients who underwent TAVR with mean age 80.9 ± 8.6 years, 97% white, and 58.3% males. Moderate or severe MR group included 52 (4.88%) patients while mild or no MR group included 1,015 (95.12%) patients. There was no significant difference between both groups in TAVR procedure success rate (100% vs 97.83%, P = .283), in-hospital mortality (0 vs 1.08%, P = .450), or mortality at 1-year follow up (15.38% vs 14.09%, P = .794). At 5-year follow up, moderate/severe MR group had higher mortality (61.4% vs 49.5%, P = .046). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, moderate or severe MR did not show significant correlation with all-cause mortality at 1-year and 5-year follow up. Moderate or severe TR group included 86 (8.03%) patients while mild or no TR group included 985 (91.97%) patients. There was no difference between both groups in TAVR procedure success (98.8% vs 97.9%, P = .54) or in-hospital mortality (0% vs 1.1%, P = .33). At 1-year follow up, patients with moderate or severe TR had higher mortality (26.7% vs 13.2%, P = .001) compared to patients with mild or no TR. Same finding was noted with extended follow up at 5-years (68.3% vs 48.7%, P < .001). In multivariable cox regression analysis, moderate/severe TR was associated with higher all-cause mortality at 1-year (OR 1.94, 95% CI [01.09, 3.44], P = .023) and at 5-year (OR 1.46, 95% CI [1.092, 1.952], P = .011) follow up. Patients with combined moderate/severe MR and TR have even higher mortality compared to either moderate/severe valve regurgitation alone or mild/no valve regurgitation at 5-year follow up.

CONCLUSION

At long term follow up, moderate/severe TR, but not MR, is associated with higher mortality in patients underwent TAVR. Combined moderate/severe TR and MR had even worse mortality. Careful assessment of multivalvular heart disease prior to the procedure is warranted.

Transcaval access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Anatomical factors may preclude transfemoral (TF) arterial access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Transcaval (TCav) access has been utilized as an alternative access for these patients. We aimed to investigate the outcomes of TCav access in patients undergoing TAVI.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis including all published studies from 1996 to November 2023 that examined TCav access in patients undergoing TAVI. The main outcomes included all cause mortality, major vascular complications, major bleeding, stroke, and myocardial infarction (MI). Outcomes were reported at 30-day and 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

We included 8 observational studies with a total of 517 patients (mean age 78.1±8 years, 56.6 % women, mean STS score 7 ± 4.5). Mean (SD) procedure time was 35 ± 9.8 mins and mean (SD) contrast volume was 136.3 ± 77.4 ml. Procedure success was achieved in 94.3 % of the patients. At 30-day follow-up, all-cause mortality occurred in 6.4 %, major bleeding in 12.2 %, blood transfusion in 23.3 %, retroperitoneal bleeding in 19 %, major vascular complications in 7.9 %, MI in 2.8 %, and AKI in 6.4 % of patients. At 1-year, all-cause mortality was 14.7 %. In a sub-group analysis including 3 studies comparing TCav (n = 316) to alternative accesses (including transcarotid, transaxillary, and transapical) (n = 303), there were no differences in all-cause mortality, major bleeding, major vascular complications, blood transfusion, or stroke at 30-day.

CONCLUSION

Transcaval approach is feasible and non-inferior to other alternative accesses in TAVI patients with prohibitive iliofemoral anatomy.

Late Survival Benefits of Concomitant Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation During Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The long-term survival benefits after surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) during cardiac surgery were not confirmed in previous randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses. This study aimed to investigate the long-term efficacy of surgical ablation in patients with AF. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched to identify studies comparing concomitant surgical AF ablation with no surgical ablation during cardiac surgery. The primary outcome was long-term all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were stroke, heart failure rehospitalization, major bleeding, freedom from AF, and permanent pacemaker implantation during follow-up. To minimize confounding, only adjusted outcomes were used from observational studies. A total of 38 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of those, 9 randomized controlled trials and 15 observational studies with 41,678 patients (surgical ablation: n = 19,125; no surgical ablation: n = 22,553) were analyzed for all-cause mortality, with a weighted median follow-up of 62.0 months. Surgical ablation was associated with decreased risks of long-term mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.71 to 0.84), stroke (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.76), heart failure rehospitalization (HR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.96), and more freedom from AF during follow-up (relative risk 1.93, 95% CI 1.50 to 2.49), whereas surgical ablation was associated with a higher risk of permanent pacemaker implantation during follow-up (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.77). There was no significant difference in major bleeding during follow-up between the 2 groups. In patients with AF who underwent cardiac surgery, surgical ablation was associated with decreased risks of long-term mortality, stroke, and heart failure rehospitalization compared with patients with untreated AF. Given that the survival benefits were predominantly observed in observational studies, further randomized trials are necessary to confirm these findings.

AI-Powered Multimodal Modeling of Personalized Hemodynamics in Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease in developed countries. High-fidelity preclinical models can improve AS management by enabling therapeutic innovation, early diagnosis, and tailored treatment planning. However, their use is currently limited by complex workflows necessitating lengthy expert-driven manual operations. Here, we propose an AI-powered computational framework for accelerated and democratized patient-specific modeling of AS hemodynamics from computed tomography (CT). First, we demonstrate that the automated meshing algorithms can generate task-ready geometries for both computational and benchtop simulations with higher accuracy and 100 times faster than existing approaches. Then, we show that the approach can be integrated with fluid-structure interaction and soft robotics models to accurately recapitulate a broad spectrum of clinical hemodynamic measurements of diverse AS patients. The efficiency and reliability of these algorithms make them an ideal complementary tool for personalized high-fidelity modeling of AS biomechanics, hemodynamics, and treatment planning.

Impact of Optimal Procedural Result After Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Tricuspid Valve Repair: Results From TRI-SPA Registry

BACKGROUND

Procedural success following tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) has been defined variably over time; however, the consequences of achieving a tricuspid regurgitation (TR) grade of 0/1+ are still unclear.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the predictors and prognostic impact of achieving TR 0/1+ after TEER and its role in clinical events.

METHODS

This multicenter registry included patients undergoing tricuspid TEER in 15 Spanish centers from June 2020 and May 2023. Patients were categorized into the following groups based on the TR grade after procedure: optimal (0/1+), acceptable (2+), and not acceptable (≥3+). The primary endpoint was the 1-year composite of all-cause death, heart failure hospitalization, and tricuspid reintervention. Secondary endpoints included each component of the primary endpoint assessed separately, NYHA functional class, and TR grade at follow-up.

RESULTS

Among 280 enrolled patients, 120 (42.9%) had residual TR 0/1+, 111 (39.6%) had residual TR 2+, and 49 (17.5%) had residual TR ≥3+. Patients with TR 0/1+ experienced lower rates of the primary endpoint (13% vs 20% vs 31%; log-rank P = 0.036). Residual TR ≥3+ was an independent predictor of primary endpoint (HR: 2.277; P = 0.044). Higher rates of NYHA functional class I or II and sustained TR reduction were seen in the TR 0/1+ group (P < 0.001 for both). A small coaptation gap and absence of septal leaflet tethering were independent predictors of achieving TR 0/1+.

CONCLUSIONS

An optimal procedural result after TEER might be associated with improved outcomes. TR coaptation gap and leaflet restriction may aid in assessing suitability for TEER.

Racial and ethnic disparities in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation: The Bronx-Valve registry

BACKGROUND

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is an adverse prognostic factor. The presence of potential racial/ethnic disparities in patient characteristics and outcomes remain unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the impact of race/ethnicity on the clinical course of severe TR.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of all adults diagnosed with severe TR between January 2017 and December 2019 at a quaternary-care health system. Clinical and echocardiographic features were evaluated according to race/ethnicity. TR was categorized into four etiologies: primary, cardiac implantable electronic device-induced, ventricular secondary (V-STR), and atrial secondary TR. V-STR subgroups included left-sided cardiac disease and pulmonary hypertension. The primary endpoint was 5-year all-cause mortality, with secondary endpoints being heart failure hospitalization (HFH) and cardiovascular (CV) mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 989 patients were analyzed: 47.8 %, 35.1 %, and 17.1 % were non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic White, respectively, over a median follow-up of 14.8 (3-42.4) months. The mean age was 71.4 ± 15.6 years (60.9 % women) with non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic patients younger yet displaying higher comorbidity burden, worse functional class, and more pronounced right ventricular remodeling. Left-sided cardiac disease was the predominant etiology (65.9 %), with a higher prevalence among non-White individuals. All-cause mortality and CV mortality occurred in 575 (58.1 %) and 196 (19.8 %) of patients with no significant differences among groups. HFH presented in 334 (33.1 %) of patients with Black patients having an increased risk compared to White individuals (HR, 1.45; 95 %CI, 1.04-2.02).

CONCLUSIONS

At the time of severe TR detection, Black and Hispanic patients, despite being younger, had higher comorbidities and more advanced disease than White patients. While 5-year mortality rates showed no significant racial/ethnic differences, Black patients had a higher risk of HFH.

Using Electrocardiogram to Assess Diastolic Function and Prognosis in Mitral Regurgitation

BACKGROUND

The determination of left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF) in patients with significant (≥moderate) mitral regurgitation (MR) poses a complex challenge. We recently validated an artificial intelligence-enabled electrocardiogram (AI-ECG) algorithm to estimate LVDF.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to evaluate the risk of all-cause mortality across AI-ECG LVDF-derived myocardial disease (MD) grades in MR.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study including all patients in the AI-ECG LVDF study testing group who underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography confirming significant MR and electrocardiogram within 14 days of each other at the Mayo Clinic between September 2001 and April 2023. AI-ECG LVDF status was determined based on the index electrocardiogram and used to categorize patients into 3 stages of MD: MD-1, normal or grade 1 LVDF; MD-2, grade 2 LVDF; and MD-3, grade 3 LVDF.

RESULTS

Of 4,019 patients with significant MR (mean age 69.8 years; 49.0% women), 1,175 (29.2%), 1,881 (46.8%), and 963 (24.0%) were classified by AI-ECG as MD-1, MD-2, and MD-3, respectively. The median mitral effective regurgitant orifice area was 26 mm2 (Q1-Q3: 20-36 mm2). Over a median follow-up of 3.5 years, 1,636 (40.7%) patients died. In multivariable survival analysis adjusted for multiple risk factors, a higher diastolic function grade was independently associated with an increased death risk (MD-2, adjusted HR [aHR]: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.62-2.45; MD-3, aHR: 2.65; 95% CI: 2.11-3.34). These findings were consistent when accounting for mitral valve intervention and across various sensitivity and subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with significant MR, the grading of LVDF by AI-ECG is independently associated with all-cause mortality.

Detecting aortic valve stenosis based on the non-invasive blood pressure waveform-a proof of concept study

The incidence of aortic valve stenosis (AoS) increases with age, and once diagnosed, symptomatic severe AoS has a yearly mortality rate of 25%. AoS is diagnosed with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), however, this gold standard is time consuming and operator and acoustic window dependent. As AoS affects the arterial blood pressure waveform, AoS-specific waveform features might serve as a diagnostic tool. Aim of the present study was to develop a novel, non-invasive, AoS detection model based on blood pressures waveforms. This cross-sectional study included patients with AoS undergoing elective transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement. AoS was determined using TTE, and patients with no or mild AoS were labelled as patients without AoS, while patients with moderate or severe AoS were labelled as patients with AoS. Non-invasive blood pressure measurements were performed in awake patients. Ten minutes of consecutive data was collected. Several blood pressure-based features were derived, and the median, interquartile range, variance, and the 1st and 9th decile of the change of these features were calculated. The primary outcome was the development of a machine-learning model for AoS detection, investigating multiple classifiers and training on the area under the receiver-operating curve (AUROC). In total, 101 patients with AoS and 48 patients without AoS were included. Patients with AoS showed an increase in left ventricular ejection time (0.02 s, p = 0.001), a delayed maximum upstroke in the systolic phase (0.015 s, p < 0.001), and a delayed maximal systolic pressure (0.03 s, p < 0.001) compared to patients without AoS. With the logistic regression model, a sensitivity of 0.81, specificity of 0.67, and AUROC of 0.79 were found. The majority of the population without AoS was male (85%), whereas in the population with AoS this was evenly distributed (54% males). Age was significantly (5 years, p < 0.001) higher in the population with AoS. In the present study, we developed a novel model able to distinguish no to mild AoS from moderate to severe AoS, based on blood pressure features with high accuracy. Clinical registration number: The study entailing patients with TAVR treatment was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03088787, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03088787 ). The study with elective cardiac surgery patients was registered with the Netherland Trial Register (NL7810, https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NL7810 ).

Role of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in the Assessment of Native Aortic Regurgitation With Insights on Mixed and Multiple Valvular Heart Disease: A Narrative Review

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) has received extensive validation for the assessment of valvular heart disease (VHD) and offers an accurate and direct method for the quantification of aortic regurgitation (AR). According to the current guidelines, CMR represents a useful second-line investigation in patients with poor acoustic windows or when echocardiography is inconclusive, for example, in cases of multiple or eccentric aortic jets. Without ionizing radiation exposure, CMR provides in-depth information not only on the severity degree of AR, providing a precise quantification of regurgitant volume and fraction, but also on cardiac structure and function, being recognized as the gold standard for the assessment of heart chamber size and systolic function. CMR allows a free choice of cardiac imaging planes and provides further information on the myocardium, thanks to the tissue characterization ability offered by several sequences, such as the late gadolinium enhancement technique. The possibilities offered by CMR become even more interesting in the context of mixed and multiple VHD, where the echocardiographic assessments often encounter difficulties in the quantification of each single valve lesion. The current scientific data support a greater expansion of CMR in this field, thanks to its additional advantages for the diagnosis, risk stratification, and to guide treatment. This review investigates the current CMR techniques and protocols in AR, with special insights into the evaluation of mixed aortic valve disease and multiple VHD including AR.

Noninvasive Imaging for Native Aortic Valve Regurgitation

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is associated with left ventricular (LV) volume and pressure overload, resulting in eccentric LV remodeling and enlargement. This condition may be well tolerated for years before the onset of myocardial dysfunction and symptoms. Echocardiography plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of AR, assessing its mechanism and severity, and detecting LV remodeling. The assessment of AR severity is challenging and frequently requires the integration of information from multiple different measurements to assess the severity. Recent data suggest that echocardiographically derived LV volumes (end-systolic volume index > 45 mL/m2), an ejection fraction threshold of <60%, and abnormal global longitudinal strain may help identify early dysfunction and may be used to improve clinical outcomes. Consequently, these parameters can identify candidates for surgery. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is emerging as a valuable tool for assessing severity when it remains unclear after an echocardiographic evaluation. This review emphasizes the importance of imaging, particularly echocardiography, in the evaluation of AR. It focuses on various echocardiographic parameters, including technical details, and how to integrate them for assessing the mechanism and severity of AR as well as LV remodeling.

Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibition and Cardiac Damage in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

The optimal medical treatment strategy after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has not been established, and might be affected by the extent of extravalvular cardiac damage. We aimed to investigate the prognostic association of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors in TAVR patients stratified according to the extent of extravalvular cardiac damage.

METHODS

In a prospective TAVR registry, patients were retrospectively evaluated for baseline cardiac damage and classified into 5 stages of cardiac damage (0-4) according to established criteria. Clinical outcomes at 1 year were compared according to RAS inhibitor prescription at discharge.

RESULTS

Among 2247 eligible patients who underwent TAVR between August 2007 and June 2021, 1634 (72.7%) were prescribed RAS inhibitors at discharge. Eighty-three patients (3.7%) were classified as stage 0, 276 (12.3%) as stage 1, 889 (39.6%) as stage 2, 489 (21.8%) as stage 3, and 510 (22.7%) as stage 4. RAS inhibitor prescription after TAVR was associated with a reduced risk of 1-year mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HRadjusted], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-0.77). The protective association was accentuated among patients with cardiac stages 3 and 4 (HRadjusted, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.32-0.92]; and HRadjusted, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.36-0.92], respectively), but not statistically significant in for those with stage 2 (HRadjusted, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.43-1.14).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who underwent TAVR, we found a strong association of RAS inhibitor prescription and improved clinical outcome in the overall population, and there were no signs of heterogeneity across stages of cardiac damage.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01368250.

Low-Gradient Severe Aortic Stenosis: Insights From the CURRENT AS Registry-2

BACKGROUND

Low-gradient (LG) aortic stenosis (AS) has not been fully characterized compared with high-gradient (HG) AS in terms of cardiac damage, frailty, aortic valve calcification, and clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes between each hemodynamic type of LG AS and HG AS.

METHODS

The current study included 3,363 patients in the CURRENT AS (Contemporary outcomes after sURgery and medical tREatmeNT in patients with severe Aortic Stenosis) Registry-2 after excluding patients without indexed stroke volume or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) data. Patients were divided into 4 groups (LG AS with reduced LVEF: n = 285; paradoxical low flow, low gradient [LFLG]: n = 220; normal flow, low gradient [NFLG]: n = 872; HG: n = 1,986).

RESULTS

Compared with HG AS, LG AS with reduced LVEF more often had cardiovascular comorbidities, advanced cardiac damage, and frailty with less severe valve calcification and paradoxical LFLG AS more often had atrial fibrillation, advanced cardiac damage, and frailty with less severe valve calcification, while NFLG AS had comparable cardiac damage and frailty with less severe valve calcification. Cumulative 3-year incidence of death or heart failure hospitalization was higher in LG AS with reduced LVEF and paradoxical LFLG than in HG AS. After adjusting for confounders, LG AS with reduced LVEF and paradoxical LFLG compared with HG AS were independently associated with higher risk for death or heart failure hospitalization (HR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.49-2.23; P < 0.001; and HR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.13-1.82; P = 0.003, respectively) but NFLG AS was not (HR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.88-1.21; P = 0.68).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes were significantly worse in LG AS with reduced LVEF and paradoxical LFLG AS and comparable in NFLG AS compared with HG AS.

Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Replacement

Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) has emerged as a promising intervention for the treatment of severe tricuspid regurgitation with complex valve morphology. This consensus document provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of orthotopic TTVR, focusing on patient selection, procedural details, and follow-up care. Clinical outcomes from initial studies and compassionate use cases are discussed, highlighting the effectiveness of TTVR in reducing tricuspid regurgitation, inducing reverse right ventricular remodeling, and enhancing patients' quality of life. This review paper also addresses potential complications and challenges associated with TTVR, such as new-onset conduction disturbances, bleeding complications, and afterload mismatch, and provides expert recommendations for the periprocedural management, anticoagulation strategies, and long-term follow-up. With the commercial approval of the first TTVR system in the United States and Europe, it intends to serve as a reference for clinicians and researchers involved in the evolving field of transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions.

Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis: a clinical and pathophysiological reappraisal

Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE), formerly recognized as marantic endocarditis, represents a rare cardiovascular pathology intricately linked with hypercoagulable states, notably malignancy and autoimmune disorders. Characterized by the development of sterile vegetations comprised of fibrin and platelets on cardiac valves, NBTE poses a diagnostic challenge due to its resemblance to infective endocarditis. Therapeutic endeavours primarily revolve around addressing the underlying aetiology and instituting anticoagulant regimens to forestall embolic events, with surgical intervention seldom warranted. Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis frequently coexists with malignancies and autoimmune conditions, such as lupus and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and, more recently, has been associated with COVID-19. Its pathogenesis is underpinned by a complex interplay of endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulability, hypoxia, and immune complex deposition. Clinical manifestations typically manifest as embolic phenomena, particularly cerebrovascular accidents, bearing substantial mortality rates. Diagnosis necessitates a high index of suspicion and meticulous exclusion of infective endocarditis, often facilitated by advanced cardiac imaging modalities. Anticoagulation, typically employing low molecular weight heparin or warfarin, constitutes the cornerstone of pharmacological intervention. Surgical recourse may be warranted in instances of refractory heart failure or recurrent embolic events. Given its multifaceted nature, the management of NBTE mandates a multidisciplinary approach, with prognosis contingent upon individual clinical intricacies. Future endeavours should prioritize further research to refine therapeutic strategies and enhance patient outcomes.

Aortic Valve Replacement vs Clinical Surveillance in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend a strategy of clinical surveillance (CS) for patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) and a normal left ventricular ejection fraction.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to conduct a study-level meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of early aortic valve replacement (AVR) compared with CS in patients with asymptomatic severe AS.

METHODS

Studies were quantitatively assessed in a meta-analysis using random-effects modeling. Prespecified outcomes included all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, unplanned cardiovascular or heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and stroke. The meta-analysis is registered at the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (INPLASY202490002).

RESULTS

Four RCTs were identified, including a total of 1,427 patients (719 in the early AVR group and 708 in the CS group). At an average follow-up time of 4.1 years, early AVR was associated with a significant reduction in unplanned cardiovascular or HF hospitalization (pooled rate 14.6% vs 31.9%; HR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.30-0.53; I2 = 4%; P < 0.01) and stroke (pooled rate 4.5% vs 7.2%; HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.40-0.97; I2 = 0%; P = 0.03). No differences in all-cause mortality (pooled rate 9.7% vs 13.7%; HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.40-1.17; I2 = 61%; P = 0.17) and cardiovascular mortality (pooled rate 5.1% vs 8.3%; HR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.35-1.29; I2 = 50%; P = 0.23) were observed with early AVR compared with CS, although there was a high degree of heterogeneity among studies.

CONCLUSIONS

In this meta-analysis of 4 RCTs, early AVR was associated with a significant reduction in unplanned cardiovascular or HF hospitalization and stroke and no differences in all-cause and cardiovascular mortality compared with CS.

Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Secondary Mitral Regurgitation With Preserved Left Ventricular Function

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (MTEER) in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation (sMR) and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to describe outcomes of MTEER for sMR with preserved LVEF.

METHODS

Using the STS/ACC TVT (Society of Thoracic Surgeons-American College of Cardiology Transcatheter Valve Therapy) Registry, we evaluated the risk-adjusted outcomes of MTEER for sMR with LVEF >50% by the severity of residual mitral regurgitation (MR), and we compared these outcomes to patients undergoing MTEER for sMR with LVEF of 20% to 50%.

RESULTS

Among 12,083 patients, LVEF was >50% in 3,011 (24.9%) and 20% to 50% in 9,072 (75.1%). Technical success, in-hospital complications, the 1-year death rate, and the 1-year Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire score were similar in patients with LVEF >50% vs LVEF of 20% to 50%. The 1-year adjusted risk of heart failure hospitalization was lower in patients with LVEF >50% vs LVEF of 20% to 50% (adjusted HR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.68-0.97; P = 0.02). Among patients with LVEF >50%, residual MR was ≤ mild in 76.0% and moderate in 19.0%. Compared with ≤ mild MR, moderate residual MR was associated with increased 1-year risks of death (adjusted HR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.01-2.10; P = 0.04) and heart failure hospitalization (adjusted HR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.32-2.52; P < 0.001). At 1 year, the KCCQ score improved in patients with LVEF >50% treated with MTEER (residual MR grade ≤ mild, 28.7 ± 26.8; moderate MR, 25.7 ± 27.2; > moderate MR, 21.6 ± 12.0; all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with sMR and preserved LVEF, MTEER was associated with a high rate of technical success, a low rate of complications, and large improvements in health status.

Decision-Making Approach to the Treatment of Young and Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis

Over a decade of randomized controlled trial data demonstrate excellent outcomes with transcatheter aortic valve replacement or surgical aortic valve replacement for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis regardless of surgical risk. The 2020 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines recommend both options for low-risk AS patients aged 65 to 80 years. However, the fastest growing population of patients receiving transcatheter aortic valve replacement in the United States is <65 years old, with little data to support the practice. The American College of Cardiology's Cardiac Surgery Team Section Leadership and Interventional Cardiology Councils, a multidisciplinary collaboration of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, sought to summarize the relevant data into a decision-making tool for heart valve teams. A literature review was completed, and guidelines, randomized controlled trials, and large observational studies were summarized into a pragmatic decision-making approach to treating young and low-risk patients with AS.

A deep learning-based method for assessing tricuspid regurgitation using continuous wave Doppler spectra

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is widely recognized as one of the principal modalities for diagnosing tricuspid regurgitation (TR). The diagnostic procedures associated with conventional methods are intricate and labor-intensive, with human errors leading to measurement variability, with outcomes critically dependent on the operators' diagnostic expertise. In this study, we present an innovative assessment methodology for evaluating TR severity utilizing an end-to-end deep learning system. This deep learning system comprises a segmentation model of single cardiac cycle TR continuous wave (CW) Doppler spectra and a classification model of the spectra, trained on the TR CW Doppler spectra from a cohort of 11,654 patients. The efficacy of this intelligent assessment methodology was validated on 1500 internal cases and 573 external cases. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the internal validation results indicate that the deep learning system achieved the areas under curve (AUCs) of 0.88, 0.84, and 0.89 for mild, moderate, and severe TR, respectively. The ROC curves of the external validation results demonstrate that the system attained the AUCs of 0.86, 0.79, and 0.87 for mild, moderate, and severe TR, respectively. Our study results confirm the feasibility and efficacy of this novel intelligent assessment method for TR severity.

Costs Associated with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Korea

Background

This study compared the costs associated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in Korea by utilizing the National Health Insurance Service database.

Methods

Between June 2015 and May 2019, 1,468 patients underwent primary isolated transfemoral TAVI, while 2,835 patients received primary isolated SAVR with a bioprosthesis. We assessed the costs of index hospitalization and subsequent healthcare utilization, categorizing the cohort into 6 age subgroups: <70, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85-89, and ≥90 years. The median follow-up periods were 2.5 and 3.0 years in the TAVI and SAVR groups, respectively.

Results

The index hospitalization costs were 41.0 million Korean won (KRW) (interquartile range [IQR], 39.1-44.7) for the TAVI group and 24.6 million KRW (IQR, 21.3-30.2) for the SAVR group (p<0.001). The TAVI group exhibited relatively constant index hospitalization costs across different age subgroups. In contrast, the SAVR group showed increasing index hospitalization costs with advancing age. The healthcare utilization costs were 5.7 million KRW per year (IQR, 3.3-14.2) for the TAVI group and 4.0 million KRW per year (IQR, 2.2-9.0) for the SAVR group (p<0.001). Healthcare utilization costs were higher in the TAVI group than in the SAVR group for the age subgroups of <70, 70-74, and 75-79 years, and were comparable in the age subgroups of 80-84, 85-89, and ≥90 years.

Conclusion

TAVI had much higher index hospitalization costs than SAVR. Additionally, the overall healthcare utilization costs post-discharge for TAVI were also marginally higher than those for SAVR in younger age subgroups.

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.

External Scaffold for Strengthening the Pulmonary Autograft in the Ross Procedure

Despite offering several potential benefits over standard prosthetic aortic valve replacement, the use of the pulmonary autograft has been limited to date due to concerns over the risk of pulmonary autograft expansion and the need for reintervention. Several techniques using materials with biomimetic potential have been developed to reduce this complication. The incidence, risk factors, and pathophysiology of pulmonary autograft dilatation are discussed in this article. This seminar will provide an overview of the techniques of external pulmonary autograft support and their advantages and limitations. It also considers future directions for further investigation and future clinical applications of external pulmonary autograft support. Dilatation of the autograft is more likely to occur in patients with aortic regurgitation and a dilated aortic annulus. External scaffolding may prevent autograft stretching and expansion in these specific cases. However, from a biomimetic point of view, any permanent scaffold potentially restricts the movement of the autograft root. This reduces some of the benefits associated with the use of autologous tissue, which is the priority of the Ross procedure. To address this issue, several bioresorbable matrices could be used to support the root during its initial adaptive phase. Control of blood pressure with aggressive therapy is the first line to avoid this problem in the first year after pulmonary autograft implantation, together with support of the annular and sinotubular junction in some selected cases. This is the best way to maintain stable autograft root dimensions while preserving root dynamics. However, to determine the efficacy of this combined external support and best medical management, it is important to perform regular imaging and clinical follow-up.

Sex Differences in Outcomes of Adults with Repaired Coarctation of Aorta and Concomitant Aortic Valve Disease

Background

Aortic valve disease is common in adults with coarctation of aorta. However, no systematic comparative analyses have been performed of the clinical course of aortic valve disease for male vs female patients in this population. The purpose of this study was to compare cardiac remodelling, onset of symptoms, and incidence of aortic valve replacement (AVR) for male vs female patients.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of adults with repaired coarctation of aorta and ≥ moderate aortic stenosis and/or aortic regurgitation. Cardiac remodelling (left ventricular [LV], left atrial, right ventricular [RV], and right atrial structure and function) and symptomatic and/or functional class were determined at the baseline encounter. Development of new-onset symptoms and the incidence of AVR were ascertained for the period from baseline to last encounter.

Results

We identified 214 patients (121 male [57%], 93 female [43%]). Although both groups had a similar aortic valve gradient, aortic valve area indexed to body surface area, aortic regurgitation severity, and functional status at baseline, female patients had more LV concentric hypertrophy and remodelling, left atrial hypertension and dysfunction, elevated RV systolic pressure, and RV systolic dysfunction. Of 151 patients without symptoms at baseline,102 (72%) developed symptoms. Female sex was independently associated with new-onset symptoms (adjusted hazard ratio 1.14, [95% confidence interval 1.05-1.23]). Of 214 patients, 191 (89%) underwent AVR. Female sex was not associated with AVR upon multivariable analysis. However, LV concentric hypertrophy and remodelling (both of which were more common in female patients) were associated with new-onset symptoms and AVR.

Conclusions

Female patients, compared to male patients, had more-advanced cardiac remodelling, and more-rapid onset of symptoms, but a similar risk of AVR.

Early outcomes with a fully retrievable SinoCrown transcatheter heart valve in patients with severe aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

This study summarizes and analyzes data from patients suffering from symptomatic aortic stenosis who successfully underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) using a novel, completely retrievable transcatheter heart valve.

METHODS

We included patients who underwent a TAVI procedure with SinoCrown valves at our center between December 2021 and September 2022. We collected 1-year follow-up data on survival, complications, echocardiographic results, New York Heart Association functional class in heart failure, and patient-reported health-related quality of life outcomes.

RESULTS

Eight successive patients (73.3 ± 4.3 years) were included in the study, with a median Society of Thoracic Surgery risk score of 4.26%. The procedure had a 100% success rate. Median postoperative discharge time was 7 days, with no 30-day hospital readmissions. Postoperative aortic valve hemodynamics improved, indicated by decreased transvalvular flow velocity compared with preoperative values (1.9 ± 0.2 vs. 4.9 ± 0.2 m/s, p < 0.0001). The median and maximum follow-up times were 8 and 12 months, respectively. During the follow-up period, there were no serious complications such as death, stroke, valve embolization, or high-grade atrioventricular block.

CONCLUSIONS

The results from eight initial TAVI cases performed with the SinoCrown valve demonstrated promising safety and efficacy.

Indexed aortic valve area using multimodality imaging for assessing the severity of bicuspid aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

The impact of various imaging modalities on discordance/concordance between indexed aortic valve area (iAVA) and catheterization-derived mean transaortic pressure gradient (mPGcath) is unclear in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). This study aimed to compare iAVA measurements obtained using four different methodologies in BAV and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients, using mPGcath as a reference standard.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent comprehensive assessment of AS, including two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), and catheterization, at our institution between 2019 and 2022. iAVA was measured using the continuity eq. (CE) with left ventricular outflow tract area obtained by 2D TTE, 3D TEE, and MDCT, as well as planimetric 3D TEE.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Among 564 patients (64 with BAV and 500 with TAV), 64 propensity-matched pairs of patients with BAV and TAV were analyzed. iAVACE(2DTTE) led to overestimation of AS severity (BAV, 23.4%; TAV, 28.1%) and iAVACE(MDCT) led to underestimation of AS severity (BAV, 29.3%; TAV, 16.7%), whereas iAVACE(3DTEE) and iAVAPlani(3DTEE) resulted in a reduction in the discordance of AS grading. A moderate correlation was observed between mPGcath and iAVACE(3DTEE) (BAV, r = -0.63; TAV, r = -0.68), with iAVACE(3DTEE) corresponding to the current guidelines' cutoff value (BAV, 0.58 cm2/m2; TAV, 0.60 cm2/m2). Discordance/concordance between iAVA and mPGcath in evaluating AS severity varies depending on the methodology and imaging modality used. The use of iAVACE(3DTEE) is valuable for reconciling the discordant AS grading in BAV patients as well as TAV.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation for severe aortic regurgitation using the J-Valve system: A midterm follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a well-established intervention for severe aortic valve stenosis. However, its application for severe aortic regurgitation (AR) is still under evaluation. This study aims to present the 3-year follow-up outcomes of the J-Valve system in managing severe AR.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mid-term efficacy and durability of the J-Valve system in the treatment of severe AR and to provide new information on this intervention.

METHODS

In this retrospective, single-center study, we evaluated the prognostic outcomes of patients with AR, who underwent treatment with the J-Valve system at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. Consecutive patients who were treated with the J-Valve were included in the analysis. The study focused on the echocardiographic follow-up to assess the effectiveness and durability of the J-Valve system in managing AR.

RESULTS

From January 2018 to December 2022, 36 high-risk AR patients treated with the J-Valve system had a procedural success rate of 97.2%, with one case requiring open-heart surgery due to valve displacement. Significant improvements were observed in left ventricular diameter (from 63.50 [58.75-69.50] mm to 56.50 [53.00-60.50] mm, p < 0.001) and left atrial diameter (from 44.00 [40.00-45.25] mm to 39.00 [36.75-41.00] mm, p = 0.003) postsurgery. All patients completed the 1-year follow-up, with an overall mortality rate of 2 out of 36 (5.6%). Among the surviving patients, there was one case of III° atrioventricular block and one case of stroke, both occurring within 90 days postsurgery. After a 3-year follow-up, 15.0% of patients had mild or moderate valvular regurgitation, with no cases of moderate or severe paravalvular leak. Additionally, 89.5% of patients were classified as New York Heart Association class I or II, showing significantly enhanced cardiac function.

CONCLUSION

The J-Valve system has shown positive therapeutic outcomes in treating AR, with notable effectiveness in managing the condition and significant improvements in heart failure symptoms and cardiac remodeling. However, due to the limited sample size and partial follow-up data, it is important to emphasize the need for further research with comprehensive long-term follow-up, to fully validate these results.

Impact of Severity and Extent of Iliofemoral Atherosclerosis on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing TAVR

BACKGROUND

Vascular complications remain a major concern in transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The Hostile score has been proposed to stratify risk in TAVR patients with peripheral artery disease.

OBJECTIVES

The authors aimed to assess the validity of the Hostile score in predicting iliofemoral vascular complications after TAVR.

METHODS

In a prospective TAVR registry, we validated the Hostile score for the prediction of puncture and non-puncture site vascular complications. This scoring system integrates the extent (number of lesions, lesion length, and minimum lumen diameter) and complexity (tortuosity, calcification, and the presence of obstruction) of iliofemoral atherosclerosis.

RESULTS

Of 2,023 patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR with contemporary devices between March 2014 and June 2022, 106 (5.2%) patients experienced puncture site vascular complications and 28 (1.4%) patients experienced non-puncture site vascular complications. The Hostile score was higher in patients with vascular complications than those without complications (1.00 [Q1-Q3: 0-5.00] vs 1.00 [Q1-Q3: 0-4.00]; P < .001). A higher body mass index (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.04-1.50) and the use of Prostar (OR: 6.03; 95% CI: 2.23-16.30) or MANTA (OR: 6.18; 95% CI: 2.67-14.27) compared with ProGlide were independent predictors of puncture site vascular complications, whereas a higher Hostile score (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.55-2.35) and female sex (OR: 2.69; 95% CI: 1.12-6.42) were independent predictors of non-puncture site vascular complications. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curves for the prediction of puncture site and non-puncture site vascular complications were 0.554 and 0.829, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The Hostile score proved useful in predicting non-puncture site vascular complications after TAVR. (SwissTAVI Registry; NCT01368250).

Transcatheter Aortic-Valve Replacement for Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis

BACKGROUND

For patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, current guidelines recommend routine clinical surveillance every 6 to 12 months. Data from randomized trials examining whether early intervention with transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR) will improve outcomes in these patients are lacking.

METHODS

At 75 centers in the United States and Canada, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis to undergo early TAVR with transfemoral placement of a balloon-expandable valve or clinical surveillance. The primary end point was a composite of death, stroke, or unplanned hospitalization for cardiovascular causes. Superiority testing was performed in the intention-to-treat population.

RESULTS

A total of 901 patients underwent randomization; 455 patients were assigned to TAVR and 446 to clinical surveillance. The mean age of the patients was 75.8 years, the mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality score was 1.8% (on a scale from 0 to 100%, with higher scores indicating a greater risk of death within 30 days after surgery), and 83.6% of patients were at low surgical risk. A primary end-point event occurred in 122 patients (26.8%) in the TAVR group and in 202 patients (45.3%) in the clinical surveillance group (hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.40 to 0.63; P<0.001). Death occurred in 8.4% of the patients assigned to TAVR and in 9.2% of the patients assigned to clinical surveillance, stroke occurred in 4.2% and 6.7%, respectively, and unplanned hospitalization for cardiovascular causes occurred in 20.9% and 41.7%. During a median follow-up of 3.8 years, 87.0% of patients in the clinical surveillance group underwent aortic-valve replacement. There were no apparent differences in procedure-related adverse events between patients in the TAVR group and those in the clinical surveillance group who underwent aortic-valve replacement.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis, a strategy of early TAVR was superior to clinical surveillance in reducing the incidence of death, stroke, or unplanned hospitalization for cardiovascular causes. (Funded by Edwards Lifesciences; EARLY TAVR ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03042104.).

Tricuspid Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation: 1-Year Outcomes From the TRILUMINATE Randomized Cohort

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a right-sided valvular disease independently associated with morbidity and mortality. The TRILUMINATE Pivotal (Clinical Trial to Evaluate Cardiovascular Outcomes In Patients Treated With the Tricuspid Valve Repair System Pivotal) is the first randomized controlled trial assessing the impact of TR reduction with tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER).

OBJECTIVES

Outcomes from the full randomized cohort of the TRILUMINATE Pivotal trial have not been previously reported, and the additional enrollment may further support the safety and effectiveness of T-TEER through 1 year.

METHODS

The TRILUMINATE Pivotal trial is an international randomized controlled trial of T-TEER with the TriClip device in patients with symptomatic, severe TR. Adaptive trial design allowed enrollment past the primary analysis population. The primary outcome was a hierarchical composite of all-cause mortality or tricuspid valve surgery, heart failure hospitalizations (HFHs), and quality-of-life improvement measured by Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) at 1 year.

RESULTS

Between August 21, 2019, and June 29, 2022, 572 subjects were randomized, including the primary cohort (n = 350) and subsequent enrollment (n = 222). Subjects were older (78.1 ± 7.8 years) and predominantly female (58.9%), with atrial fibrillation (87.8%) and prior HFH (23.8%). The primary endpoint was met for the full cohort (win ratio = 1.84; P < 0.0001). Freedom from all-cause mortality and tricuspid valve surgery through 12 months was 90.6% and 89.9% for the device and control groups, respectively (P = 0.82). Annualized HFH rate was comparable between device and control subjects (0.17 vs 0.20 events/patient-year; P = 0.40). A significant treatment effect was observed for change in quality of life with 49.5% of device subjects achieving a ≥15-point KCCQ score improvement (compared with 25.6% of control subjects; P < 0.0001). All secondary endpoints favored T-TEER: moderate or less TR at 30 days (88.9% vs 5.3%; P < 0.0001), KCCQ change at 1 year (13.0 ± 1.4 points vs -0.5 ± 1.4 points; P < 0.0001), and 6-minute walk distance change at 1 year (1.7 ± 7.5 m vs -27.4 ± 7.4 m; P < 0.0001). Freedom from major adverse events was 98.9% for T-TEER (vs performance goal: 90%; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

TriClip was safe and effective in the full randomized cohort of TRILUMINATE Pivotal with significant TR reduction and improvements in 6-minute walk distance and health status. Rates of all-cause mortality or tricuspid valve surgery and HFH through 1 year were not reduced by T-TEER.

Meta-Analysis of Dedicated vs Off-Label Transcatheter Devices for Native Aortic Regurgitation

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for high surgical risk patients with severe native aortic regurgitation (AR) presents unique challenges. Dedicated devices such as the JenaValve (JenaValve Technology) and J-Valve (JC Medical Inc) show promising results in addressing these challenges.

OBJECTIVES

This study compares the safety and efficacy of dedicated vs off-label devices among high surgical risk patients with pure native AR.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through July 11, 2024, for studies on TAVR among patients with pure severe native AR. The primary endpoint was 30-day all-cause mortality. Secondary endpoints were device success, residual AR ≥ moderate, valve embolization/migration, pacemaker implantation, reintervention, and all-cause mortality at 1 year. Summary estimates were constructed using a random effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 34 studies encompassing 2,162 patients (mean age 75.4 ± 0.2, 42.8% women) were included in the meta-analysis. Patients undergoing TAVR with dedicated devices had a lower all-cause 30-day mortality rate (3% vs 9%; P < 0.01) and higher device success (93% vs 82%; P < 0.01) compared with off-label devices. The risk of AR ≥ moderate (2% vs 5%; P = 0.03), valve embolization/migration (2% vs 8%; P < 0.01), pacemaker implantation (11% vs 20%; P < 0.01), and reintervention (4% vs 10%; P < 0.01) at 30 days and all-cause mortality at 1 year (6% vs 24%; P < 0.01) were lower in the dedicated device group.

CONCLUSIONS

Dedicated TAVR devices for native AR show superior device success and reduced mortality, residual AR, and reintervention rates compared with off-label devices. These findings support the use of dedicated devices as a safer alternative for high-risk patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Cardioband in Patients with Tricuspid Regurgitation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Single-Arm Trials and Observational Studies

Background/Objectives: The incidence and prevalence of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are increasing worldwide. "Traditional" drug therapy with diuretics is often ineffective and the identification of new strategies, including non-pharmacological ones, is an urgent need. The aim of this study was to summarize the results on the efficacy and safety of Cardioband, one of the few approved transcatheter tricuspid valve repair systems, in patients with TR. Methods: Three databases (Medline, Scopus, and CENTRAL) were searched to identify clinical trials and observational studies on the efficacy (primary outcome) and safety (secondary outcome) of Cardioband. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed with R software (version 4.3.3). Survival and freedom from heart failure (HF) hospitalization were estimated with the method of reconstructing individual patient data from Kaplan-Meier curves (IPDfromKM). Results: Eleven studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Cardioband significantly reduced annulus diameter (-9.31 mm [95% Confidence Interval, CI: -11.47; -7.15]), vena contracta (-6.41 mm [95% CI: -8.34; -4.49]), and effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) (-0.50 cm2 [95% CI: -0.72; -0.28]) in patients with TR. Cardioband reduced the severity of TR and the extent of heart failure in 91% [95% CI: 85; 97] and 63% [95% CI: 52-75] of patients, respectively. Finally, Cardioband implantation was associated with prolonged survival and freedom from HF hospitalization (80.1% and 57.8% at 24 months, respectively). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that Cardioband implantation leads to cardiac remodeling and mechanical improvements, reduces the severity of TR, and improves quality of life. Therefore, Cardioband is an effective option for the non-pharmacological treatment of TR.

Effect of Valve Type and Anesthesia Strategy for TAVR: 5-Year Results of the SOLVE-TAVI Trial

BACKGROUND

In the randomized SOLVE-TAVI (compariSon of secOnd-generation seLf-expandable vs. balloon-expandable Valves and gEneral vs. local anesthesia in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) trial comparing newer-generation self-expanding valves (SEV) and balloon-expandable valves (BEV), as well as conscious sedation (CS) and general anesthesia (GA), clinical outcomes were similar both for valve and anesthesia comparison at 30 days and 1 year. Prosthesis durability may affect clinical outcomes during long-term follow-up. Moreover, the impact of the anesthesia strategy on long-term clinical outcomes is unknown so far.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to compare clinical outcomes during 5-year follow-up in the randomized SOLVE-TAVI trial.

METHODS

In the randomized, multicenter, 2 × 2 factorial, open-label SOLVE-TAVI trial, 447 intermediate- to high-risk patients with severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis were randomly assigned to transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using either SEV (Evolut R, Medtronic) or BEV (SAPIEN 3, Edwards Lifesciences) and also to CS vs GA. Patients were followed-up for 5 years.

RESULTS

During 5 years of follow-up, the combined predefined endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, moderate or severe paravalvular leakage, and permanent pacemaker implantation was similar in the SEV and BEV groups (67.7% vs 63.4%; HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.70-1.13; P = 0.34). Stroke rates at 5 years were lower in the SEV group (2.2% vs 9.6%; HR: 4.84; 95% CI: 1.65-14.18; P = 0.002). Regarding the anesthesia comparison, the primary endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, myocardial infarction, and acute kidney injury occurred in 51.4% in the CS group and 61.3% in the GA group (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.62-1.04; P = 0.09). All-cause mortality at 5 years was lower for CS (41.5% vs 54.3%; HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.53-0.94; P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Transfemoral TAVR using either SEV and BEV as well as CS and GA showed similar clinical outcomes at 5 years using a combined clinical endpoint.

Meta-analysis of improved mitral regurgitation after aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis aimed to compare survival outcomes among patients experiencing improvement in untreated significant mitral regurgitation (MR) following surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe aortic stenosis, in contrast to those without improvement.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search through February 2024. Pooled hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed. Kaplan-Meier curves depicting all-cause mortality were reconstructed using individual patient data derived from the included studies.

RESULTS

A systematic review identified twelve non-randomized studies encompassing 4040 patients. The pooled all-cause mortality of the meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in patients whose MR improved compared to those with persistent MR after aortic valve replacement (AVR) (HR [95% CI] = 0.55 [0.47-0.64], p < .01). The hazard ratio, derived from reconstructed time-to-event data, indicated lower all-cause mortality in patients with improved MR after AVR relative to the other cohort (HR [95% CI] = 0.50 [0.40-0.62], p < .01 in all patients, 0.48 [0.34-0.68], p < .01 in patients undergoing SAVR, and 0.58 [0.42-0.80], p < .01 in those receiving TAVR).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this meta-analysis revealed that improved MR after AVR, whether surgically or by transcatheter approach, correlates with superior survival. The benefits of simultaneous or staged intervention on the mitral valve in individuals undergoing AVR warrant validation in future investigations.

Coronary obstruction analysis in transcatheter aortic valve implantation through patient-specific computational modelling

Background

Coronary obstruction (CO) is a rare but devasting complication during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Objectives

We aim to demonstrate that the predicted distance between the coronary ostia and the closest structure derived with patient-specific computer simulation is associated with CO risk during TAVR.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 14 aortic stenosis patients who underwent TAVR through finite element simulation. The frame deformation predicted with patient-specific computer simulation was qualitatively and quantitatively compared to the post-operative device deformation. The minimum distance between each coronary ostium and the closest structure was calculated and compared in patients who developed CO, at high risk of CO, and at no risk of CO.

Results

Four patients experienced CO during TAVR, 5 patients were at high risk of CO, and the remaining 5 patients had no risk of CO. A high coefficient of determination was obtained for all measurements extracted from the simulated device and the post-operative device (≥0.95). Simulations predicted shorter distance between the coronary ostium and the closest structure in patients who experienced CO, compared to patients at high risk of CO or who did not experience this complication (right coronary: 5.9 vs. 6.8 vs. 8.8 mm, left coronary: 3.0 vs. 3.3 vs. 6.5 mm respectively).

Conclusions

The distance between the coronary ostium and the closest structure was lower in patients who experienced CO during TAVR through patient-specific computational simulation. This technology enables coronary obstruction analysis before TAVR in the future.

Rheumatic Pulmonary Stenosis in an Elderly Man

An elderly man presented with right ventricular outflow obstruction due to severe pulmonary stenosis. Rheumatic changes were noted in mitral, aortic, and pulmonary valves. However, pulmonary valve was the predominantly affected valve. This is the first case report of rheumatic heart disease presenting predominantly with severe pulmonary stenosis in the elderly.

Ischemic Stroke in a Young Patient With Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis

Rheumatic fever is the most common cause of mitral stenosis worldwide. Embolic events represent severe complications of mitral stenosis. We describe the case of a 45-year-old women who had an ischemic stroke as the initial manifestation of previously unrecognized mitral stenosis in the absence of atrial fibrillation.

Severe Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis During Pregnancy

A 28-year-old woman, gravida 2 para 1, with previously unknown severe rheumatic mitral stenosis presented with progressive dyspnea at 26 weeks of gestation. Percutaneous commissurotomy was considered but was deferred after symptom improvement with beta-blockers and diuretics. Pregnancy complications ensued, requiring preterm delivery. Postpartum percutaneous commissurotomy was successful, highlighting the complexities in managing rheumatic heart disease during pregnancy.

Rheumatic Mitral Restenosis Following Surgical Commissurotomy

Because corrective procedures extended life expectancy of the population with rheumatic heart disease, reintervention has become a contemporary challenge. This paper presents a case of a 54-year-old woman with exertional dyspnea and palpitations 26 years after undergoing surgical commissurotomy due to mitral stenosis, with remarkable clinical-echocardiographic divergence on valvular disease severity.

Challenges in the Concurrent Management of Severe Mitral Stenosis With LAA Thrombus and Symptomatic Adenomyosis

A 49-year-old woman with untreated severe mitral stenosis faced complex management challenges in a resource-limited setting. Initially presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding, her cardiac condition was discovered during a preoperative work-up for a planned hysterectomy. This case emphasizes the necessity for tailored and transdisciplinary management approaches.

Prognostic Relevance of Gradient and Flow Status in Severe Aortic Stenosis

Background: Severe aortic stenosis (AS) may present with different flow, gradient and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) patterns. Paradoxical low-flow low-gradient (PLF-LG) severe AS has a specific clinical profile, but its prognosis and management remain controversial. Our aim is to evaluate the impact of different AS patterns in the incidence of major clinical events. Methods: A retrospective observational study was carried out on all the consecutive patients diagnosed with severe AS at our tertiary hospital centre in 2021. Echocardiographic measurements were carefully reviewed, and patients were classified following current guidelines into four categories: high gradient (HG), concordant low-flow low-gradient (CLF-LG), paradoxical low-flow low-gradient (PLF-LG) and normal-flow low-gradient (NF-LG). The baseline characteristics and clinical events (heart failure admission, intervention and death) at 1-year follow-up were collected from medical records. The association between categories and events was established using Student's t test or ANOVA as required. Results: 205 patients with severe AS were included in the study (81 ± 10 years old, 52.7% female). Category distribution was as follows: HG (138, 67.3%), PLF-LG (34, 19.8%), CLF-LG (21, 10.2%) and NF-LG (12, 5.9%). During the follow-up, 24.8% were admitted due to heart failure, 68.3% received valve replacement (51.7% TAVR) and 22% died. Severe tricuspid regurgitation was more frequent in patients with PLF-LG than in HG AS (14.7% vs. 2.2%; p < 0.01). Despite no differences in intervention rate, more patients with PLF-LG (32.4% vs. 15.9%; p = 0.049) died during the evolution. Conclusions: The PLF-LG pattern was the second most common pattern of severe AS in our cohort, and it was related to a higher mortality with no differences in intervention rate. Thus, this controversial category, rather than being underestimated, should be followed closely and considered for early intervention.