2017 ESC/EACTS Guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease

Predictors of the diuretic response in acute decompensated heart failure patients with severe aortic stenosis: sub-analysis of the LOHAS registry

For severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients awaiting valve replacement, managing acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is crucial due to poor prognosis. The LOHAS registry evaluated the effect of tolvaptan in patients (mean age: 85 years) with severe AS and ADHF, demonstrating stable hemodynamics and sufficient diuresis. We investigated predictors of rapid successful decongestion. In the LOHAS study, eligible patients received tolvaptan (7.5 mg) on day 1 plus standard ADHF treatments. Patients were divided based on decongestion achievement on day 4. Of 59 enrolled, 35 (59%) achieved decongestion (decongestion group), and 24 (41%) remained congested (congestion group). Changes in body weight, renal function, and hemodynamics were comparable between groups over the first 4 days. However, the maximum inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter at admission was significantly larger in the decongestion group than the congestion group (12.6 ± 6.3 vs. 7.6 ± 4.8 mm, p = 0.007). ROC analysis revealed a cut-off of 11 mm for maximum IVC diameter to predict decongestion on day 4 (AUC: 0.73, 95% CI 0.58-0.88). In-hospital mortality was lower in the decongestion group (0% vs. 13%, p = 0.06). In conclusion, in this high-risk severe AS and ADHF population, adding tolvaptan to standard therapy may rapidly improve decompensation if patients have a sufficiently expanded IVC at admission. Maximum IVC diameter could predict successful decongestion with tolvaptan.

Coronary Risk in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, Overview of Data, Challenges, and Best Practices

Coronary artery obstruction is a rare complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This risk increases in TAVR-valve-in-valve procedure. Several anatomic risk factors were described in many studies to identify the predictive elements of coronary artery occlusion on computed tomography cardiac scan. Rescue percutaneous coronary intervention was the first approach described to treat this complication with a high mortality rate. Later on, preventive chimney stenting technique was evaluated and results showed that is a safe and effective strategy but it leads to a difficult coronary access later. New preventive techniques are being evaluated recently (Basilica and Shorctut).

Clinical outcomes of direct oral anticoagulant versus warfarin after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: From the STS/ACC TVT registry

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) recipients frequently have an indication for long-term oral anticoagulation, including atrial fibrillation or systemic thromboembolic disease. It remains unclear if there are differences in safety and effectiveness between direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) and warfarin in this patient population.

METHODS

Clinical outcomes were compared between TAVR recipients receiving DOACs or warfarin using data from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons/American College of Cardiology Transcatheter Valve Therapy (TVT) registry linked with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services claims data. The analysis included patients from the TVT registry who underwent successful TAVR and were discharged on either a DOAC or warfarin between January 2013 and May 2018. The primary outcome was any bleeding requiring hospitalization from discharge to 1 year. Secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality and stroke from discharge to 1 year. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to compare these outcomes between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

A total of 29,142 patients underwent TAVR and were discharged on oral anticoagulation, among whom 10,973 (37.7%) were discharged on a DOAC. The use of DOACs increased throughout the study period and exceed the use of warfarin by the final year (2018). The cumulative incidence of bleeding requiring hospitalization at 1 year (11.8% vs 15.2%, P < .001) and all-cause mortality (15.5% vs 17.5%, P < .001) was significantly lower in DOAC group while stroke (2.47% vs 2.39%, P = .64) was not statistically different between groups. In an adjusted model, the use of a DOAC as opposed to warfarin was associated with a significantly lower risk of bleeding requiring hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio 0.49, 95% confidence interval 0.43-0.56), all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 0.61, 95% confidence interval 0.57-0.66), and stroke (adjusted hazard ratio 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.81-0.92) (all P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this analysis of TAVR recipients discharged on oral anticoagulation in a large U.S. registry, the use of a DOAC rather than warfarin was associated with a lower risk of bleeding requiring hospitalization, all-cause mortality, and stroke from discharge to 1 year. Future randomized studies will be necessary to establish the optimal choice of anticoagulant in TAVR patients.

Gender differences in the presentation and management of patients with severe aortic stenosis at specialist versus primary/secondary care centres: A sub-analysis of the IMPULSE enhanced registry

BACKGROUND

Management and treatment of severe aortic stenosis (AS) may differ considerably in European countries. To investigate these differences in France, Germany, and the UK, the IMPULSE enhanced registry was established. Previous data revealed differences in how patients were managed in specialist (hub) versus primary/secondary care (satellite) centres.

METHODS

The IMPULSE enhanced registry sub-analysis aimed to determine if there were gender-specific differences for patients with severe AS at centres with and without access to intervention.

RESULTS

Among the 790 patients, 594 and 196 were recruited at hub and satellite centres, respectively; 44 % of patients were female. In both settings, women were older than men (hubs: 78.7 vs. 76.2, p = 0.007; satellites: 79.8 vs. 75.1, p = 0.002). Symptoms at the presentation were comparable. Males had more often undergone previous cardiac surgery. Females had a smaller left ventricular (LV) outflow tract, smaller LV cavities, and, more often, a preserved ejection fraction (>50 %). There was no gender-based difference in time to intervention. At one year, the cumulative incidence of aortic valve replacement in females was higher than in males in hubs (p = 0.012) but not in satellites (p = 0.600); surgical AVR was more common in males in hubs only (p = 0.008), while transcatheter aortic valve implantation was more common in females in both settings (hubs: p < 0.001; satellites: p = 0.022). One-year survival was comparable in both genders, regardless of setting.

CONCLUSIONS

A better understanding of gender-specific differences in patients with severe AS, according to the diagnostic setting, could improve patient stratification and earlier diagnosis.

The passability of delivery catheter system during self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A CT-based prediction model

OBJECTIVE

Aortic anatomy may pose challenges to the advancement of the delivery catheter system (DCS) and affect the outcome of self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve replacement (SE-TAVR). This study aimed to develop a preprocedural CT-based nomogram to predict the passability of DCS and clinical SE-TAVR outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data of 348 patients who underwent transfemoral SE-TAVR were retrospectively collected from May 2018 to December 2023. A number of 118 patients received snare catheter, indicating poor DCS passaibility. All patients were randomized to development (n = 244) and validation (n = 104) sets. A predictive model was constructed by logistic regression and presented as a nomogram, which indicated that larger aortic angle, severe calcification, larger ascending aorta diameter, coronary ostial height of ≤10 mm, and bicuspid aortic valve were independent anatomical risk factors for poor DCS passability during SE-TAVR. Subsequently, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were depicted to assess the performance of the nomogram, revealing its good accuracy and concordance. This model also showed that patients with poor DCS passability were more likely to develop significant postprocedural paravalvular leak (PVL).

CONCLUSIONS

The model adequately predicts the DCS passability during SE-TAVR, which provides a comprehensive profile of risk factors for poor DCS passability and indicates coronary ostial height of ≤10 mm as a novel anatomical risk factor, in addition to the larger aortic angle, severe calcification, larger ascending aorta diameter, and bicuspid aortic valve. Patients with poor DCS passability are more likely to develop significant PVL.

Thrombolysis in dysfunctional valve and stroke

BACKGROUND

Valvular heart disease affects more than 100 million people worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of at least moderate valvular heart disease is 2.5% across all age groups, but its prevalence increases with age. Mitral regurgitation and aortic stenosis are the most frequent types of valvular heart disease in the community and hospital context, respectively. Surgical valve replacement (or mitral valve repair) is the standard of care for treating heart valve disease. However, the replacement of a prosthetic heart valve can lead to complications, either in the peri-procedural phase or in the long-term follow-up period.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a case of a 71-year-old female patient with a history of mitral valve replacement and warfarin anti-coagulation therapy. She was admitted to the intensive care unit due to spontaneously reperfused ischemic stroke of probable cardioembolic etiology. A dysfunctional mitral prosthesis was identified due to malfunction of one of the fixed discs. Furthermore, a possible microthrombotic lesion was suspected. Therefore, systemic thrombolysis was performed with subsequent normalization of mitral disc opening and closing.

CONCLUSION

This case underscores the critical importance of a multidisciplinary approach for timely decision-making in critically ill patients with prosthetic valve complications.

Thrombolysis in dysfunctional valve and stroke

BACKGROUND

Valvular heart disease affects more than 100 million people worldwide and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of at least moderate valvular heart disease is 2.5% across all age groups, but its prevalence increases with age. Mitral regurgitation and aortic stenosis are the most frequent types of valvular heart disease in the community and hospital context, respectively. Surgical valve replacement (or mitral valve repair) is the standard of care for treating heart valve disease. However, the replacement of a prosthetic heart valve can lead to complications, either in the peri-procedural phase or in the long-term follow-up period.

CASE SUMMARY

We present a case of a 71-year-old female patient with a history of mitral valve replacement and warfarin anti-coagulation therapy. She was admitted to the intensive care unit due to spontaneously reperfused ischemic stroke of probable cardioembolic etiology. A dysfunctional mitral prosthesis was identified due to malfunction of one of the fixed discs. Furthermore, a possible microthrombotic lesion was suspected. Therefore, systemic thrombolysis was performed with subsequent normalization of mitral disc opening and closing.

CONCLUSION

This case underscores the critical importance of a multidisciplinary approach for timely decision-making in critically ill patients with prosthetic valve complications.

Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair of atrial secondary mitral regurgitation positively influences atrial remodelling

BACKGROUND

Atrial secondary mitral valve regurgitation (ASMR) is a distinct anatomical subset of secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR). Evidence of the effect of transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) on left atrial (LA) anatomy and function, especially reverse remodelling (LARR), is still sparse.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive patients treated with TEER for mitral regurgitation (MR) in our centre between January 2013 and October 2023. Of the 597 patients with SMR, 103 patients (17.3%) met the inclusion criteria for ASMR. All patients in the ASMR group (mean age 79.4 ± 6.8 years, 71% female) were symptomatic (89% NYHA ≥ III) and had a mean logistic EuroScore of 22.5 ± 12.4%. TEER was successfully performed in all patients, and invasive LA mean pressures decreased intraprocedurally from 17.8 ± 5.7 to 13.1 ± 4.8 mmHg (P < 0.001). At hospital discharge, 94% of patients had mild residual or non/trace MR. At 1YFUP, the prevalence of residual moderate MR was 7% and 1% had severe MR. A significant reduction in LA volume compared with baseline, both at end-systole (151.4 ± 64 vs. 113 ± 64 mL, P < 0.001) and at end-diastole (119.8 ± 56 vs. 91.2 ± 56.9 mL, P < 0.001) could be observed. Seventy per cent of patients had a sustained decrease in NYHA class ≤ II. LARR, defined as LAESV decrease ≥15% at 1YFUP, was documented in 59% of patients. These patients were more likely to have lower post-interventional mitral valve mean pressure gradients (2.2 ± 0.8 mmHg vs. 2.8 ± 1.1 mmHg, P = 0.02) and lower BNP at discharge and at 1 month follow-up [319 (197.8 to 526) vs. 560 (279.3 to 929), P = 0.07, and 287.5 (191.3 to 386.3) vs. 506.5 (223.3 to 935.5), P = 0.06, respectively]. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified pre-procedural MPG (P = 0.06, OR 0.92, CI 95% 0.85-1.00) and BNP at discharge (P = 0.11, OR 0.99, CI 95% 0.99-1.00) as independent predictors for the occurrence of LARR at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Transcatheter mitral valve repair by edge-to-edge therapy represents a safe and effective therapeutic option in symptomatic patients with atrial secondary mitral regurgitation and might have the potential to induce left atrial reverse remodelling.

Outcomes of Octogenarians Undergoing Edge-to-Edge Transcatheter Valve Repair for Tricuspid Regurgitation: Inverse Propensity Score-Weighted Analysis

There is a scarcity of data for perioperative outcomes of octogenarians undergoing tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER), despite both the potential procedural effectiveness in treating tricuspid regurgitation and a low incidence of severe complications observed in the nonelderly population. We assessed the characteristics and outcomes of TEER in octogenarians compared to those in patients under 80 years old treated at a referral tertiary teaching hospital. We retrospectively enrolled all adult patients undergoing tricuspid TEER. The population was stratified based on age: ≥80 and <80 years. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) propensity score was used to mitigate the risk of selection bias. Between January 2017 and September 2023, 101 patients underwent tricuspid TEER. Thirty-six (36%) were octogenarians. Crude treatment estimates indicated that preoperative Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TAPSE) was significantly higher in octogenarians compared to younger patients (19 mm [IQR: 17 to 21] vs. 17 mm [IQR: 14-18]; p = 0.005). At discharge, octogenarians showed a TAPSE 2.71 mm higher than that observed in the <80 age group (95% CI: 0.79 to 4.62; p = 0.006) according to crude treatment estimates. After adjusting with IPTW-weighting, the TAPSE difference remained significant, with octogenarians having a 2.44 mm higher TAPSE (95% CI: 0.54 to 4.35; p = 0.012). IPTW-adjusted analyses indicated comparable clinical outcomes between the two groups. Adverse events and survival in octogenarians were similar to those observed in patients aged <80 years. Our findings indicate that age alone should not be the sole criterion to deny TEER.

Standard and advanced echocardiographic study of patients with Paget's disease of bone: Evidence of a pagetic heart disease?

BACKGROUND

Paget's disease of the bone (PDB) is a metabolic bone disorder involving one or more skeletal sites. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been described in patients with PDB but have not been systematically analysed.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare standard and advanced (speckle-tracking) echocardiographic parameters measured in patients with PDB and controls matched for age, weight, height and history of hypertension but without metabolic bone disorders.

METHODS

This multicentre case-control study included all patients with PDB referred to the Federico II and Siena Universities, Italy, from March 2019 to October 2022. During the same time, we enrolled at least one control for each patient, matched for age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and history of hypertension.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients with PDB and 115 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. All patients with PDB were treated with zoledronic acid at the time of diagnosis. Compared with controls, on standard echocardiography, patients with PDB showed a high prevalence of aortic and mitral valve calcifications and/or sclerosis, reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, stroke volume, cardiac output, increased interventricular septum thickness, posterior wall thickness, LV mass index, relative wall thickness, relative diastolic wall thickness, E/e' ratio and systemic vascular resistance. Using speckle-tracking echocardiography, patients with PDB showed a lower global longitudinal strain and global myocardial work efficiency than controls. There was no relationship between the PDB activity and extent and severity of cardiac abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the myocardial function and structure were impaired in patients with PDB. Additionally, PDB was associated with early subclinical myocardial damage.

Non-Invasive Hemodynamic Monitoring in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Background/Objectives: Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is a prevalent cardiovascular condition among elderly patients frequently treated with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI). Traditional hemodynamic monitoring during TAVI relies on invasive methods. The ClearSight® Finger Cuff system offers a non-invasive alternative for continuous hemodynamic monitoring. To compare the reliability and feasibility of non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring with traditional invasive hemodynamic monitoring during TAVI procedures. Methods: In this prospective observational study, patients undergoing elective TAVI were recruited from two tertiary hospitals between March and August 2023. Invasive hemodynamic measurements were obtained using arterial and pigtail catheters, with a subset undergoing right heart catheterization. Non-invasive measurements were captured using the ClearSight® system. Data on baseline characteristics, procedural details, and 30-day follow-up outcomes were collected. Results: The study cohort comprised 50 patients (median age 82 years (IQR 78.0, 85.8), 50% female). Non-invasive measurements of cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), and stroke volume (SV) were consistently lower than invasive measurements (CO: 4.1 vs. 4.8 L/min, p = 0.03; CI: 2.2 vs. 2.7 L/min/m2, p = 0.01, SV: 66 vs. 77 mL, p = 0.25). Non-invasive blood pressure readings were lower than invasive radial and aortic measurements before and after TAVI. Correlation of non- and invasive measurements was low but similar before and after TAVI (Mean percentage error of 52%). Conclusions: The ClearSight® system provided lower absolute values for all evaluated hemodynamic parameters as well as low correlation compared to traditional methods pre- as well as post-interventional.

Association of Tricuspid Regurgitation With Mortality in Heart Failure With Left-Sided Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Left-sided heart disease is the leading etiology of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in heart failure (HF); however, the association between different HF phenotypes and the adverse effects of TR remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The authors aimed to elucidate the association between TR and outcomes across the subtypes of left-sided heart disease in patients hospitalized for HF.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the multicenter West Tokyo Heart Failure registry between January 2006 and December 2021. Moderate or severe mitral or aortic valve disease was defined as left-sided valve dysfunction (LVD). Patients with congenital heart disease, secondary cardiomyopathy, systemic conditions related to HF, or those with incomplete datasets were excluded. Using a multivariable Cox hazard model, the survival effect of TR on mortality in patients with LVD was examined.

RESULTS

Overall, 3,040 presented with LVD (median age, 80 years; 45.9% female), and 2,438 had no LVD (median age, 74 years; 27.8% female). The prevalence of moderate and severe TR was 27.6% and 6.5% in patients with LVD and 9.2% and 1.5% in those without LVD, respectively. The adjusted HRs of moderate and severe TR for mortality were 1.25 (95% CI: 1.03-1.52) and 1.72 (95% CI: 1.30-2.29) in those with LVD, respectively, and 2.15 (95% CI: 1.62-2.84) and 3.09 (95% CI: 1.87-5.09) in those without LVD, respectively. Significant interactions between the subtypes were observed (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

TR severity stratified mortality after acute decompensated HF better in patients without LVD than in those with LVD.

Nomogram for Predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-Year Survival in Hemodynamically Significant Aortic Regurgitation: The ARISE Score

BACKGROUND

A user-friendly tool that integrates key clinical variables to estimate prognosis in aortic regurgitation is lacking. We aimed to develop and validate a nomogram-based score to predict survival and identify high-risk patients for timely aortic valve surgery referral.

METHODS AND RESULTS

From 2008 to 2022, 1229 patients (derivation data set: 764 Taiwanese; validation data set: 465 Japanese; age: 64±17 years) with isolated chronic moderately severe to severe aortic regurgitation from 3 centers were included. All echocardiograms were reviewed de novo. At a median follow-up of 5.0 (interquartile range, 2.2-8.2) years, 204 all-cause deaths occurred and 247 underwent aortic valve surgery within 3 months. In multivariable analysis, age (P<0.001), Charlson Comorbidity Index (P<0.001), New York Heart Association functional class IV (P<0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction (P<0.001), left ventricular end-systolic dimension index (P=0.03), and aortic valve surgery in 3 months (P=0.03) were associated with all-cause death. These variables, along with sex and maximal aorta diameter index, were incorporated into the combined left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular end-systolic dimension index nomogram to estimate 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival and to calculate the Aortic Regurgitation/Insufficiency Survival Estimation (ARISE) score. Calibration plots demonstrated good performance, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve reaching 0.79 in the validation data set. The left ventricular end-systolic dimension index-based nomogram showed similar performance. By using the tertiles of the ARISE score to risk stratify individuals, Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated significant survival differences among 3 risk groups in both the derivation and validation cohorts (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The ARISE score (https://arise-score.vercel.app/), which includes guideline-recommended parameters, effectively predicts survival in patients with aortic regurgitation. It may facilitate shared decision-making between the heart team and patients.

Disproportionate vs. Proportionate Secondary Mitral Regurgitation: A Long-Term Pilot Analysis After Mitral Valve Surgery

Objectives: The treatment of secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) is still controversial. In 2019, a new conceptual framework was introduced, distinguishing between patients with a degree of MR "proportionate" to the left ventricular (LV) dilatation and patients in whom the severity of MR is "disproportionate" to the LV dilatation. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term outcome of patients with disproportionate vs. proportionate secondary MR who underwent mitral valve (MV) surgery. Methods: From January 2012 to June 2022, 96 patients with a preoperative diagnosis of pure secondary MR and LV dysfunction underwent MV surgery. The patients were divided in two groups, disproportionate vs. proportionate MR, according to echocardiographic parameters. A 5.2 (3.5-7.5) years complete clinical and echocardiographic follow-up was performed. Results: In the study period, 61 patients with disproportionate and 35 patients with proportionate MR underwent surgical MV repair or MV replacement. The thirty-day outcome was comparable in the two groups. At long-term follow-up, mortality was 5% in the disproportionate group vs. 11% in the proportionate group (p = 0.2), and cardiovascular mortality was 3% vs. 9%, respectively (0.5). Rehospitalization for heart failure was 6% vs. 20% (p = 0.04), and the rate of patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class ≥ III was 8% vs. 26%, respectively (p = 0.01). LV volumes were significantly higher in the proportionate group, thus presenting a lower LV ejection fraction (p < 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). No cases of recurrent MR have been observed. Conclusions: In this first exploratory analysis, patients with disproportionate secondary MR seem to present a possible benefit in terms of mortality and cardiovascular mortality, although not ones reaching statistical significance. Nevertheless, significant advantages were observed in terms of rehospitalization for heart failure, clinical status and symptoms, LV volumes, and LV function. Among patients referred to cardiac surgery, identifying the subset of patients with functional MR, who may obtain more significant advantages from surgery, seems relevant for patient selection, risk stratification, and to predict long-term outcomes.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgery in low-risk patients: in-hospital and mid-term outcomes

OBJECTIVES

The aim of our study is to compare post-procedural outcomes and mid-term mortality of low-risk patients treated by transfemoral TAVI or surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) for severe aortic stenosis.

METHODS

Data of consecutive patients undergoing AVR or TAVI from September 2017 to December 2021 were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed. Eligible patients were aged between 75 and 85 years with low-surgical risk and isolated severe aortic stenosis. Exclusion criteria were prior heart surgery, valve-in-valve procedure and the need for concomitant procedures. The primary end-point was mid-term all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-one patients were enrolled. Of these, 243 underwent TAVI and 108 underwent AVR. Compared to AVR, TAVI patients were older (82 [78-83 ] vs 78 [77-80], P < 0.001), with higher incidence of advanced chronic kidney disease (33.3% vs 15.7%, P < 0.001) and poor mobility (15.6% vs 5.6%, P = 0.008) and a higher Euroscore II (2.2 [1.72-2.98] vs 1.9 [1.31-2.46 ], P = 0.002). AVR patients had a higher incidence of post-procedural AKI (29.6% vs 4.5%, P < 0.001), while TAVI patients had a higher incidence of LBBB (23.9% vs 1.8%, P < 0.001) and at least mild to moderate PVL (4.5% vs 0%, P = 0.021). Mid-term mortality was higher among TAVI patients (HR 0.38 [95% CI 0.23-0.88], P = 0.020). In the matched cohort, TAVI had a higher incidence of LBBB (11.5% vs 1.3%, P = 0.018) and permanent PM implantation (12.8% vs 5.1%, P = 0.041), while AVR patients had a higher incidence of post-procedural AKI (33.3% vs 5.1%, P < 0.001). Mid-term mortality was higher in TAVI patients (HR 0.36 [95% CI 0.21-0.87], P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

TAVI patients demonstrated a higher mid-term mortality and a higher incidence of post-procedural conduction abnormalities and PVL which remain a concern in low-risk patients.

Outcomes of surgical versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to determine the impact of surgical versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis.

METHODS

This was an observational study of consecutive aortic valve replacements for severe aortic stenosis from 2010 to 2023. Patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis (aortic valve mean gradient <40 mm Hg and a stroke volume index <35 mL/m2) were included. Both classical (ejection fraction <50%) and paradoxical (ejection fraction ≥50%) subtypes were included. Concomitant procedures and history of aortic valve replacement were excluded. Patients were dichotomized by intervention.

RESULTS

A total of 575 patients underwent isolated, first-time aortic valve replacement for low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis, of whom 248 (43%) were low operative risk (Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality <4%). A total of 131 patients (52.8%) underwent surgical aortic valve replacement, and 117 patients (47.2%) underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Those undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement were older than those undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement: 79.0 [76.0-84.0] years versus 66.0 [59.0-73.0] years (P < .001). The incidence of 30-day mortality, stroke, and pacemaker was not different across each group, but the incidence of paravalvular leak was higher in the transcatheter aortic valve replacement group. At 1-year follow-up, aortic valve mean gradient (9.0 [7.0-12.0] mm Hg) and ejection fraction (55.0% [40.0-60.0]) were no different across each group. On multivariable analysis, transcatheter aortic valve replacement was not associated with an increased hazard of death compared with surgical aortic valve replacement (hazard ratio, 1.38, 95% CI, 0.72-2.66, P = .34) or an increased hazard of heart failure readmission (hazard ratio, 1.70, 95% CI, 0.88-3.30, P = .11) compared with surgical aortic valve replacement.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis, surgical and transcatheter approaches to aortic valve replacement may be equally as advantageous with respect to long-term outcomes.

Impact of Sarcopenia on Mortality in Patients Undergoing TAVI: A Follow-Up Study

Objective: The use of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has expanded in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are deemed inoperable. However, sarcopenia may be a determining factor in their survival. The aim of our study is to assess the impact of sarcopenia, evaluated by computed tomography (CT), on mortality in this patient population. Methods: Patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing follow-up after TAVI at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa were recruited. Body composition was analyzed using routine CT scans and open-source software. Survival analysis was performed, and correlations between body composition parameters at the T12 and L3 vertebral levels were assessed. Results: Our sample comprised 97 subjects. Time to mortality was associated with diabetes mellitus (p = 0.050), atrial fibrillation (p = 0.02), and respiratory disease (p = 0.03). Interestingly, sarcopenia (p = 0.039) and normal-density muscle area (p = 0.025) were also associated with time to mortality, with the association between sarcopenia and time to mortality becoming stronger after adjusting for covariates (p < 0.001). The correlation between different body composition parameters at the T12 and L3 vertebral levels was substantial and statistically significant. Conclusions: The use of CT to assess sarcopenia in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI is highly valuable and can predict time to mortality. Sarcopenia should be considered as a relevant parameter in the comprehensive evaluation of these patients.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Providing Real-Time Guidance During Interventional Cardiology Procedures: A Narrative Review

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in interventional cardiology revolutionizes procedural guidance, particularly in high-stakes environments such as angioplasty and stent placement. In this narrative review we explore the role of AI in providing real-time decision support, enhancing precision, and improving patient outcomes during these complex procedures. AI algorithms can identify critical anatomical features, predict complications, and optimize stent positioning with unprecedented accuracy by analyzing data from imaging modalities like intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography. The findings of this narrative review, from which we have reviewed more than 150 studies across multiple databases, highlight the necessity of continued research and development to utilize AI to its full potential in enhancing the efficacy and safety of interventional procedures. In this review we highlight AI's current advancements, challenges, and potential in real-time interventional cardiology procedures, emphasizing its transformative impact on clinical practice and patient care.

External aortic annuloplasty with a dedicated expansible ring improves outcomes in remodeling root repair compared with homemade Dacron ring

OBJECTIVES

In remodeling valve-sparing root replacement with external annuloplasty, we compare long-term outcomes of a calibrated expansible extra-aortic ring with a homemade Dacron ring.

METHODS

All patients (2003-2020) operated for root aneurysm with/without aortic insufficiency (AI) were included. The standardized CAVIAAR (conservation aortique valvulaire dans les insuffisances aortiques et anévrysmes de la racine-Valve sparing in aortic insufficiencies and root aneurysms) technique was root remodeling and external annuloplasty ring with the EXTRA-AORTIC Ring or homemade Dacron ring.

RESULTS

Among 486 patients (age 52.3 ± 14.0 years) operated for root aneurysm, 375 (repair rate: 77.1%) underwent root remodeling with annuloplasty (extra-aortic ring, n = 289, vs Dacron ring, n = 86). At 10 years (median follow-up, 4.08 years' interquartile range, 1.95-7.61), unmatched and matched analysis showed that patients with extra-aortic ring had greater survival, similar to the general population (93.3% vs 79.9%, P = .097), lower reoperation incidence (2.0% vs 9.7%, P = .0098), and lower AI grade >2 recurrence (1.9% vs 11.2%, P = .0042), compared with patients with a Dacron ring. Mixed-effect model showed that with extra-aortic ring annuloplasty, annular dilation over time (P = .0033) was prevented and, compared with the homemade Dacron ring, root expansibility was better preserved (3.22% vs 2.12%, P = .002) and mean transvalvular gradient was lower (6.58 mm Hg vs 7.94 mm Hg, P = .001). Tricuspid and bicuspid valves with extra-aortic ring had similar reoperation (4.3% vs 0.85%, P = .65) and AI grade >2 incidence (2.7% vs 1.2%, P = .61), expansibility (P = .29), and diameter (P = .47), whereas mean transvalvular gradient was lower for tricuspid valves (5.58 mm Hg vs 7.60 mm Hg, P = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

Valve-sparing root remodeling with calibrated expansible extra-aortic ring annuloplasty improves the outcomes of reoperation and recurrent AI compared with a homemade Dacron ring. It prevents dilation and maintains physiological root dynamics for durable valve repair.

Risk of Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Aortic Stenosis: Insights From the VALVENOR Registry

BACKGROUND

A close interaction between aortic stenosis (AS) and coronary artery disease has been suggested. However, the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with AS is poorly described outside the context of aortic valve replacement.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence, correlates, and impact on outcomes of MI occurrence in patients with different degrees of AS severity.

METHODS

Between 2016 and 2017, the multicenter prospective VALVENOR registry enrolled 2,830 outpatients with native valvular AS (peak aortic jet velocity [Vmax] ≥2.5 m/s). AS was defined as mild (Vmax 2.5-2.9), moderate (Vmax 3-3.9), or severe (Vmax ≥4). MI was defined using the fourth universal definition (type 2 MI were not considered).

RESULTS

The mean age was 76.0 years, 54% of the patients were men, and 18.3% had experienced prior coronary event (PCE). At 5 years, the cumulative incidence of MI (death as competing event) was only 2.5% (n = 72, one-third of ST-segment elevation MI). PCE and angina symptoms were associated with an increased risk, whereas female gender was associated with a decreased risk. By contrast, AS severity was not associated with the risk of MI. Subsequent mortality was high and at 52.8% during follow-up (median 648 days after MI occurrence). Incident MI was a powerful predictor of mortality (HR: 2.00, P < 0.001 after adjustment).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with AS, the risk of MI is relatively low especially in patients without PCE and without angina. No association between the risk of MI and AS severity was observed. Although rare, incident MI is strongly associated with subsequent mortality.

A New Benchmark for Modern Management of Valvular Heart Disease: The Whole-Life Cycle Management System

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is rapidly increasing in prevalence worldwide, affecting millions and significantly impacting global health care systems. Despite notable advancements in understanding VHD progression, perioperative management, imaging techniques, and transcatheter therapies over the past 2 decades, the condition has not received the attention it deserves from the public and policymakers. Many patients with VHD in low- and middle-income countries continue to experience low detection, intervention, and follow-up rates. Systematic care for elderly patients and those with severe comorbidities, as well as postoperative patients, remains insufficient, leading to higher mortality and morbidity rates. This review focuses on the deficiencies in VHD treatment within the Chinese health care system and discusses the modern management program, known as the whole-life cycle management system, that has been implemented to enhance the survival prognosis of VHD patients.

Five-Year Mortality of Surgical and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in the Real-World Scenario: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Propensity Score Matching Studies

INTRODUCTION

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) provide evidence of efficacy, while real-world data (RWD) demonstrate effectiveness in real-world practice. We designed a systematic review and meta-analysis of reconstructed time-to-event (RTE) data from propensity score matching studies comparing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) to compare their effectiveness and evaluate the generalizability of TAVI indications.

METHODS

Systematic review of literature between 2007 and 2023 including propensity score matching studies comparing TAVI or SAVR that reported at least one-year Kaplan-Meier curves of endpoints.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included (39538 participants). TAVI shows a higher all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34-1.47, P-value < 0.001), with a significant heterogeneity. The analysis of HR trend over time shows that TAVI superiority is limited to the first month with a steep reversal afterwards, when SAVR becomes clearly superior. All-cause mortality is significantly higher in TAVI in low-risk (HR 1.35; 95% CI 1.08-1.69, P-value < 0.001) as well as in intermediate (HR 1.73; 95% CI 1.35-2.22, P-value < 0.001) and high-risk (HR 1.61; 95% CI 1.38-1.88, P-value < 0.001) patients. The HR trend in the subgroups of risk confirms the data from the whole mixed population.

CONCLUSION

In a real-word setting, TAVI is associated with higher incidence of all-cause death and maintains a survival benefit only in the first month after implantation. These results show that TAVI effectiveness may not reflect the efficacy demonstrated by RCTs and pose a threat to their external validity.

Effect of Bicuspid Versus Tricuspid Aortic Valve Morphology on the Fate of the Ascending Aorta

BACKGROUND

Bicuspid aortic valves are associated with ascending aortic pathology, but their impact on long-term outcomes, including aortic growth and adverse events, remains unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This prospective cohort-study included adult patients undergoing aortic valve surgery or ascending aortic surgery at a single center (2007-2013). The primary outcome was aortic diameter growth; secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality and adverse aortic events. Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to adjust for baseline differences. Among 570 patients, 204 underwent echocardiographic follow-up, and 566 were followed for adverse aortic events. At 10-year follow-up, ascending aortic diameter increased significantly (mean 4 mm, P<0.001), with no difference between patients with BAV and TAV (P=0.68). After multivariable adjustment, there was no difference in all-cause mortality (HR, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.65-1.18]), but BAV was associated with a decreased risk of adverse aortic events (HR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.19-0.82]). Concomitant ascending aortic surgery was associated with an increased risk of adverse aortic events in patients with TAV (HR, 8.89 [95% CI, 3.36-23.6]) but was associated with a decreased risk in patients with BAV (HR, 0.06 [95% CI, 0.01-0.29]).

CONCLUSION

Ten years after surgery, ascending aortic growth occurred regardless of valve morphology. Adverse aortic events were more common in patients with TAV, whereas patients with BAV benefited from concomitant ascending aortic surgery. These findings suggest a more liberal approach to ascending aortic surgery in patients with BAV undergoing valve replacement, but improved risk stratification is needed.

Upstream and Downstream Cardiovascular Changes in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis: An Update

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and its complications are major health problems worldwide, especially in developing countries, owing to their high prevalence. Mitral stenosis (MS) is one of the most common lesions in RHD, either isolated or in combination with mitral regurgitation, and eventually leads to atrial fibrillation (AF), congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and other complications, including ischemic stroke or limb ischemia, if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Recent studies have suggested that MS affects the cardiovascular system beyond mere obstructions. The presence of MS in RHD causes significant changes in the cardiovascular system, both upstream and downstream, affecting both the left and right ventricles. Rheumatic MS causes significant structural changes through inflammatory pathways and hemodynamic changes, owing to its obstructive effects. This review aims to discuss the vast changes in the cardiovascular system caused by rheumatic MS.

Advanced Silicon Modeling of Native Mitral Valve Physiology: A New Standard for Device and Procedure Testing

Mitral valve regurgitation is among the most prevalent valvular heart diseases and increases with age. Percutaneous therapy has emerged for the management of mitral regurgitation in high surgical risk patients. However, the long-term consequences of these interventions are still not fully understood due to their novelty and the difficulty of developing a strategy specific to the patient's anatomy and/or pathology. To optimize these outcomes, an in vitro patient-specific approach could provide important insights for the most suitable strategy to use according to the patient profile. To ensure the reliability of this in vitro approach, the aim of this study was to reproduce the physiological behavior of the healthy native mitral valve for future applications. To do so, different silicon combinations reproducing the physiological anatomy of a healthy mitral valve were developed and tested under physiological hemodynamic conditions in a cardiac simulator. The hemodynamic and biomechanical behaviors of each mitral valve model were analyzed and compared to the physiological values provided in the literature. This study identified EcoFlex 00-50 and DragonSkin 10 (Smooth-On Inc., Easton, PA, USA) as the optimal silicon combination resulting in physiological strain values and hemodynamic parameters. These findings could be useful for future patient-specific applications, helping in the optimization of percutaneous mitral valve therapy.

Tricuspid Regurgitation: Knowledge of Tricuspid Valve Morphology, Etiology of Regurgitation, and Grading of Regurgitation Severity

With the aging of the population, the number of patients with tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is increasing. Severe TR is associated with global morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular events. In recent years, the rapid development of transcatheter interventions for tricuspid valve disease has made TR a current research hotspot. More preoperative information about the patient's tricuspid valve anatomy, the etiology leading to TR, and the severity of TR will aid in intraoperative maneuvers and postoperative prognosis assessments.

Long-term survival evaluation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis: a retrospective cohort study

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) is becoming an established technique. However, data on long-term survival in Japan are limited and regional disparities remain. We aimed to evaluate long-term survival after TAVI using the Nara Kokuho Database (KDB). Patients who underwent TAVI between July 2014 and March 2023 were enrolled. The study outcomes were to evaluate survival rates after TAVI over 1-7 years and predict long-term prognostic factors using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards model. Of 446 consecutive patients, 284 were female participants (63.7%). The mean age was 84.1 ± 4.3 years. The overall survival rates were 95.1-54.4% over 1-7 years. Cox proportional hazards model analysis revealed that younger age (< 85 years, hazard ratio [HR], 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.20-0.69; p = 0.002) and transfemoral approach (HR, 0.37; 95% CI 0.17-0.78; p = 0.009) were predictive factors. However, renal disease (HR, 2.02; 95% CI 1.08-3.77; p = 0.03), cerebrovascular disease (HR, 2.02; 95% CI 1.13-3.63; p = 0.02), and rheumatologic disease (HR, 2.71; 95% CI 1.19-6.18; p = 0.02) were poor long-term prognostic factors. This study measured the long-term survival after TAVI using Nara KDB data, identifying factors that might serve as predictive indicators.

Outcomes of the Qatar Transcatheter aortic valve implantation- registry (QATAVI-registry) -first report 24/7/2024

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a therapeutic modality for high-surgical-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis. This study describes the outcomes of TAVI performed in Qatar.

METHODS

The Qatar TAVI registry (QATAVI) was established to report the outcomes of TAVI procedures performed at Hamad Medical Corporation- Heart Hospital between October 2012 and December 2023. Data were collected both prospectively and retrospectively.

RESULTS

241 patients underwent TAVI, with a mean age of 73 ± 8 years. The device success rate was 98.8 %. In-hospital para-valvular leak (PVL) was as follows; mild 8.3 %, moderate 0.8 %, and severe 0.0 %. At 1-year, PVL was mild 2.9 %, moderate 0.4 %, and severe 0.0 %. At 2 years, 0.4 % had mild PVL, moderate 0.4 %, and severe 0.0 %. The incidence of stroke was 2.1 % during hospitalization, 2.1 % at 1 year, and 1.2 % at 2 years. For myocardial infarction, the in-hospital rate was 0.8 %, at 1 year 3.3 %, and 1.2 % at 2 years. 3.7 % developed heart failure during the hospital stay, 15.4 % at 1 year, and 4.6 % at 2 years. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.0 %, while a 1-year survival rate was 91 %. Among the 1-year mortality, 67 % died from non-cardiovascular causes.

CONCLUSION

The inaugural report of QATAVI demonstrates a success rate that matches international standards, favorable early and late valvular functions, and improved clinical outcomes related to major adverse cardiovascular events. Moreover, the survival rates observed in this cohort align with those reported in global registries, demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of the TAVI procedure in Qatar.

Perioperative Antithrombotic Strategies in Vascular Surgery: A Survey in Germany

Background and Aims

The variety of modern antithrombotic medications complicates the choice of individual perioperative therapy in vascular surgery, especially when more than one antithrombotic option is possible. The aim of this study was to determine the perioperative and periinterventional setting concerning antithrombotics in vascular surgery in Germany.

Methods

This article is based on a survey from year 2018 of heads of German vascular surgical departments or units regarding their experience with different anticoagulants. The survey asked for the frequency and time of preoperative pausing of the antithrombotics before various vascular operations or interventions.

Results

The evaluable response rate was 52% (169/324). Acetylsalicylic acid was discontinued before open aortic surgery in 9% (15/169) of respondents. Clopidogrel was paused in 65% (107/169) before open aortic surgery, in 25% (41/169) before vascular surgery (like carotid endarterectomy, endovascular aortic repair, or operations on peripheral arteries), and in 11% (18/169) before peripheral percutaneous interventions. Discontinuation of vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants (took place before conventional operations in 99.4%; oral anticoagulation was continued for peripheral percutaneous interventions in only 6% (8/169). Management was heterogeneous with regard to the timing of the perioperative medication pause. Clopidogrel was not discontinued according to time specifications in 8%; ticagrelor in 75%; rivaroxaban in 23%; and dabigatran in 29%, compared to the recommendations of the industrial information sheets.

Conclusion

The perioperative antithrombotic therapy in German vascular surgery clinics is not uniform and does not correspond to the current specialist recommendations in a notable proportion of clinics.

Cardiac Rehabilitation in TAVI Patients: Safety and Benefits: A Narrative Review

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has redefined the management of severe aortic stenosis, particularly in surgical high-risk patients. As the number of TAVI procedures increases, there is a growing need for effective post-procedural care. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has emerged as a critical component of treatment in these patients. The most recent update of the European recommendations highlights the importance of including post-TAVI patients in CR programs. However, the benefits of CR in this particular patient group still need to be fully understood. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the safety and benefits of post-TAVI CR by evaluating its impact on functional capacity, frailty, muscular strength, mental health, quality of life, and long-term survival. While emerging evidence supports its safety and effectiveness in the aforementioned outcomes, gaps remain regarding the optimal rehabilitation protocols, including the timing, duration, and intensity of CR as well as its long-term cardiovascular benefits. Further research is needed to develop personalized approaches for different patient groups. This article highlights the current knowledge, identifies critical gaps, and underlines the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies to improve post-TAVI recovery and patient outcomes.

What Are SAVR Indications in the TAVI Era?

While surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) has traditionally been regarded as the gold standard for severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS), transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a compelling less invasive alternative for patients with severe AS across the entire surgical risk spectrum. Despite TAVI's increasing utilization and promising outcomes, SAVR continues to be an essential treatment modality for certain patient populations, including individuals with complex aortic anatomies unsuitable for TAVI, patients presenting with significant aortic regurgitation, individuals requiring concomitant surgical procedures, and cases involving infective endocarditis. Furthermore, concerns regarding the long-term durability and complication profile of transcatheter valves underscore the importance of individualized patient assessment, especially for younger patients requiring optimal lifetime management strategies. This review examines the evolving role of SAVR amidst the growing adoption of TAVI and highlights key considerations for selecting the most appropriate treatment strategy for patients with aortic valve disease, incorporating insights from recent advancements in transcatheter technologies and the latest clinical trial evidence.

Impact of pre-procedural red cell distribution width on one-year all-cause mortality following transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Red cell distribution width (RDW) has emerged as a novel biomarker associated with adverse outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to determine the prognostic significance of pre-procedural RDW levels on one-year all-cause mortality (ACM) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis due to limited evidence on the impact of RDW levels in TAVR patients.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed articles on pre-procedural RDW and one-year ACM post-TAVR until February 2024 using PubMed and Google Scholar. Binary random effects model was used for pooled adjusted odds ratio (aOR), with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) and I2 statistics for heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies with 3273 patients aged between 70-90 years and 45 % males were analyzed. High pre-procedural RDW was an independent predictor of one-year ACM (aOR 1.60, 95%CI 1.13-2.27, p < 0.01). This association is even more prominent when aged > 80 years vs. <80 years (aOR 1.64, 95 % CI 1.17-2.31, p < 0.01 vs. aOR 1.46, 95 % CI 0.49-4.32, p < 0.01). Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis validated the robustness of our meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicated that elevated baseline RDW is an independent predictor of one-year ACM post-TAVR. Further studies are needed to validate the importance of RDW as a marker of post-TAVR outcomes.

Simultaneous 18F-labeled AlF-FAPI PET/MR images targeting the myocardial fibrosis in coronary artery disease and degenerative mitral valve regurgitant participants with left ventricular mechanical dyssynchrony

BACKGROUND

Myocardial fibrosis contributes to LV mechanical dyssynchrony and fibroblast activation protein is considered as a specific biomarker related to tissue remodeling. The authors aimed to explore the relationship between LVMD and myocardial fibrosis, and patterns of LV fibrosis distribution in CAD and Degenerative Mitral Valve Regurgitant (DMVR) participants by the technique of 18F-AlF-FAPI PET/MR.

METHODS

37 CAD and DMVR participants with LVMD and normal ones underwent cardiac PET/MR imaging, the correlations between SUVmean of FAPI-uptakes and score/percentage of LV wall thickening, peak myocardial strains, and displacements were analyzed in PET/MR images, and ejection fractions and function parameters of mitral valve were compared.

RESULTS

There was inverse correlation between SUVmean and score/percentage of LV wall thickening, peak circumferential and short-axial radial myocardial strains, and global peak myocardial strains and ejection fractions showed a decrease significantly in participants with heart diseases. In CAD participants, FAPI was distributed in the ischemic coronary arteries regions. Functions of myocardium in LAD and RCA regions were sensitive to fibrosis, however, those in LCX regions were resistant to fibrosis. In DMVR participants, high uptakes of FAPI were the locations of the valve annulus and papillary muscles, and SUVmean in the basal inferospetal/basal inferior segments were a positive correlation with function parameters of the mitral valve.

CONCLUSION

Uptake of 18F-AlF-FAPI in the myocardium could detect fibrosis and predict LVMD in CAD and DMVR participants. Moreover, there were different distributions of FAPI-uptake in those participants. In DMVR participants, SUVmean in the basal inferospetal/basal inferior segments could assess dysfunction of the mitral valve.

The PREVASC study: Prospective REgistry of Valve disease in Asymptomatic Italian elderly SubjeCts

AIMS

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is the third leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity, with its incidence and public health impact projected to increase significantly. This study adopts a novel perspective, focusing on elderly individuals residing in rural areas, highlighting the unique dynamics of small-town settings.

METHODS

This multicenter, observational study was conducted from May 2022 to September 2023, under the coordination of the AOU Careggi Echo Core-Lab, which managed the entire screening program. In 10 small Italian villages, each municipality facilitated the enrollment of asymptomatic individuals aged ≥ 65 years, with no prior VHD history, through voluntary participation. Participants were grouped into three age categories (65-69, 70-74, and ≥ 75 years) and underwent a thorough evaluation, including a Quality of Life (QoL) questionnaire and comprehensive echocardiographic assessment focusing on VHD detection and grading.

RESULTS

Among 1,113 participants, the prevalence and severity of VHD showed a significant increase with age (p < 0.0001). Remarkably, 94% of individuals aged ≥ 75 years had at least one valvular defect, with 22.5% presenting moderate or severe valvulopathy, including a prevalence of 4.8% for moderate or severe aortic valve stenosis and 7.5% for mitral regurgitation. Right-sided valvulopathies followed a similar trend, affecting 71.9% of elderly participants. QoL evaluations revealed a generally positive perceived health status, with a mean score of 77 ± 16.

CONCLUSIONS

Our registry highlights that the prevalence of VHD in asymptomatic individuals over 65 years living in small Italian communities is substantial, increases with age, and is predominantly degenerative in etiology. Notably, most individuals with undiagnosed VHD perceived themselves as healthy.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Replacement: The Latest Advances and Prospects

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, particularly in patients at high risk of adverse events for traditional open-heart surgery. Since the early 2000s, TAVR has evolved rapidly with advancements in device technology, procedural techniques, and patient selection criteria. Over the past 20 years, this catheter-based procedure has significantly improved patient survival and quality of life, demonstrating both the safety and efficacy of TAVR, even in patients at low surgical risk. This paper reviews the latest advances in valve design and strategies for treating aortic stenosis. It explores the challenges with long-term outcomes given the younger age of patients undergoing TAVR and the prospects of emerging technologies to improve long-term outcomes.

Comparative analysis of percutaneous vs. surgical access in transfemoral TAVR: a propensity-matched cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a proven treatment for severe aortic stenosis. Transfemoral access is the most prevalent method, achieved either surgically or percutaneously. This study compared in-hospital outcomes and length of stay between surgical cut-down and fully percutaneous approaches.

METHODS

This retrospective, propensity-matched study analyzed medical records of all patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR at our center from January 2019 to December 2023. Outcomes were assessed based on Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) consensus criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 251 TAVR patients (77 propensity score-matched pairs) were included (55% female) with a median (IQR) age of 80 (11) years. Surgical cut-down showed fewer vascular complications, bleeding, and transfusions. No death was reported in this group. Fewer mean hospitalization days were observed in the total cohort over the years (p < 0.001). This reduction was more pronounced after 2021 when the surgical approach was adopted. Mean hospitalization days were 6.40 ± 6.46 for percutaneous and 4.34 ± 1.61 for surgical groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Surgical cut-down for TAVR femoral access yields superior outcomes and shorter hospital stays compared to fully percutaneous methods.

Isolated Tricuspid Valve Surgery for Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation

BACKGROUND

 Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) adversely affects long-term survival; however, isolated tricuspid valve (TV) surgery has been rarely performed due to high operative mortality. In addition, the previous literature included heterogeneous TR etiologies. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate early and long-term outcomes of isolated TV surgery for functional TR.

METHODS

 An electronic search was performed to identify all relevant studies. Baseline characteristics, perioperative variables, and clinical outcomes were extracted and pooled for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

 This meta-analysis included seven studies. Pooled analyses showed that 68% (35, 89) of patients had preoperative atrial fibrillation or flutter, and 58% (11, 94) had a history of left-sided valve surgery. Seventy-three percent (65, 80) of patients had at least one physical exam finding of right-sided heart failure, and 57% (44, 69) were in New York Heart Association class III or IV. TV replacement was more common than repair. In TV replacement, bioprosthetic valve (39%, 13, 74) was more common than mechanical prosthesis (22%, 18, 26). The early mortality rate was 7%. Twenty percent of patients required a permanent pacemaker postoperatively. The overall 1- and 5-year survival rates were 84.5 and 69.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

 More than half of the patients who underwent isolated TV surgery for functional TR had undergone left-sided valve surgery and had significant heart failure symptoms at the time of surgery. Further studies on the surgical indication for concomitant TV surgery at the time of left-sided valve surgery and the appropriate timing of surgery for isolated functional TR are needed to improve survival.

Impacts of Tricuspid Regurgitation and Concomitant Tricuspid Surgery in Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Recent studies on the effects of preoperative tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity and concomitant tricuspid valve (TV) surgery in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR) have yielded conflicting results, complicating the decision making on concomitant TV surgery in AVR.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of preoperative TR severity on outcomes of AVR and to assess the impact of concomitant TV surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent AVR from 2000 to 2022 were included. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was a composite of mortality, TV-related reoperation, stroke, and heart failure. For patients with moderate TR, the impact of TV surgery was analyzed using the inverse probability of treatment weighting to address for selection bias.

RESULTS

A total of 2,679 consecutive patients (median 7.22 years, Q1-Q3: 4.21-11.83 years) constituted the study cohort. At baseline, TR severity was none-to-trivial, mild, moderate, and severe in 1,688 (63.0%), 731 (27.3%), 215 (8.0%), and 45 (1.7%) patients, respectively. Clinical outcomes demonstrated significant disparities depending on baseline TR severity (P for trend < 0.001). After adjusting for potential covariates, TV surgery did not affect overall survival among patients with moderate TR (HR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.21-1.50). However, the TV surgery group exhibited a favorable composite outcome and lower TV-related reoperation rate (HR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15-0.92, and subdistribution HR: 0.07; 95% CI: 0.01-0.63, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who underwent AVR, baseline TR severity correlated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. Concomitant TV surgery reduced the rate of TV-related reoperations, but not mortality, among patients with moderate TR.

Predicting mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement using AI-based fully automated left atrioventricular coupling index

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine whether artificial intelligence (AI)-based automated assessment of left atrioventricular coupling index (LACI) can provide incremental value above other traditional risk factors for predicting mortality among patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing coronary CT angiography (CCTA) before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated patients with severe AS who underwent CCTA examination before TAVR between September 2014 and December 2020. An AI-prototype software fully automatically calculated left atrial and left ventricular end-diastolic volumes and LACI was defined by the ratio between them. Uni- and multivariate Cox proportional hazard methods were used to identify the predictors of mortality in models adjusting for relevant significant parameters and Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality (STS-PROM) score.

RESULTS

A total of 656 patients (77 years [IQR, 71-84 years]; 387 [59.0 ​%] male) were included in the final cohort. The all-cause mortality rate was 21.6 ​% over a median follow-up time of 24 (10-40) months. When adjusting for clinical confounders, LACI ≥43.7 ​% independently predicted mortality (adjusted HR, 1.52, [95 ​% CI: 1.03, 2.22]; p ​= ​0.032). After adjusting for the STS-PROM score in a separate model, LACI ≥43.7 ​% remained an independent prognostic parameter (adjusted HR, 1.47, [95 ​% CI: 1.03-2.08]; p ​= ​0.031). In a sub-analysis of patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, LACI remained a significant predictor (adjusted HR, 1.72 [95 ​% CI: 1.02, 2.89]; p ​= ​0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

AI-based fully automated assessment of LACI can be used independently to predict mortality in patients undergoing TAVR, including those with preserved LVEF.

Effect of chronic total occlusion of coronary arteries on cardiovascular outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has significantly advanced the treatment of severe aortic stenosis (AS), particularly in elderly patients who often have coexisting coronary artery disease (CAD). Chronic total occlusion (CTO), a severe form of CAD, may negatively impact outcomes in TAVR patients, though data are limited. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the impact of CTO on TAVR outcomes.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases to identify studies comparing TAVR outcomes in patients with and without CTO. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, with several secondary endpoints also assessed.

RESULTS

Six studies involving a total of 331,159 TAVR patients were included in this meta-analysis. CTO was associated with a significantly increased risk of in-hospital mortality (RR: 1.24; 95 % CI: 1.01, 1.52; p = 0.04), acute myocardial infarction (RR: 1.67; 95 % CI: 1.48, 1.89; p < 0.00001), acute kidney injury (RR: 1.46; 95 % CI: 1.37, 1.56; p < 0.00001), and vascular complications (RR: 1.47; 95 % CI: 1.28, 1.69; p < 0.00001). No significant differences were observed in all-cause mortality (RR: 1.21; 95 % CI: 0.76, 1.93; p = 0.42), stroke (RR: 1.09; 95 % CI: 0.91, 1.30; p = 0.37), or bleeding events (RR: 1.19; 95 % CI: 1.00, 1.41; p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

CTO poses a significant risk in TAVR patients, particularly for in-hospital mortality and acute myocardial infarction. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for these patients, with consideration given to revascularization before TAVR. Further studies are needed to evaluate the potential benefits of prior CTO-PCI.

A Controlled Trial Comparing One-Year Hemodynamics of Two Bovine Pericardial Valves

BACKGROUND

 This randomized controlled trial was designed to compare 1-year hemodynamic performances and clinical outcomes after aortic valve replacement (AVR) using a recently introduced (the AVALUS group) and worldwide used (the CEPME group) bovine pericardial bioprostheses.

METHODS

 Patients were screened to enroll 70 patients in each group based on a noninferiority design. The primary endpoint of the trial was the mean pressure gradient across the aortic valve (AVMPG) at 1 year after surgery. One-year echocardiographic data were obtained from 92.1% (129 of 140 patients) of the study patients.

RESULTS

 There were no differences in baseline characteristics, including sex and body surface area (1.64 ± 0.18 vs. 1.65 ± 0.15 m2) between the groups. The AVMPG on 1-year echocardiography was 14.0 ± 4.3 and 13.9 ± 5.1 mmHg in the AVALUS and CEPME groups, respectively (the p-value for noninferiority was 0.0004). In the subgroup analyses for the respective size of the prostheses, AVMPG of the 19-mm prostheses was significantly lower in the AVALUS group than in the CEPME group (14.0 ± 4.3 vs. 20.0 ± 4.7 mmHg, p = 0.012), whereas those of the other sizes were not significantly different between the two groups. There were no significant differences in the effective orifice area (1.49 ± 0.40 vs. 1.53 ± 0.38 cm2, p = 0.500) or effective orifice area index (0.91 ± 0.22 vs 0.93 ± 0.23 cm2/m2, p = 0.570) in all the patients, or in the subgroup analysis for the 19-mm prosthesis. There were no differences in the 1-year clinical outcomes between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

 The 1-year hemodynamic and clinical outcomes of the AVALUS group were noninferior to those of the CEPME group (NCT03796442).

Effect of temporal resolution on calcium scoring: insights from photon-counting detector CT

To intra-individually investigate the variation of coronary artery calcium (CAC), aortic valve calcium (AVC), and mitral annular calcium (MAC) scores and the presence of blur artifacts as a function of temporal resolution in patients undergoing non-contrast cardiac CT on a dual-source photon counting detector (PCD) CT. This retrospective, IRB-approved study included 70 patients (30 women, 40 men, mean age 78 ± 9 years) who underwent ECG-gated cardiac non-contrast CT with PCD-CT (gantry rotation time 0.25 s) prior to transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Each scan was reconstructed at a temporal resolution of 66 ms using the dual-source information and at 125 ms using the single-source information. Average heart rate and heart rate variability were calculated from the recorded ECG. CAC, AVC, and MAC were quantified according to the Agatston method on images with both temporal resolutions. Two readers assessed blur artifacts using a 4-point visual grading scale. The influence of average heart rate and heart rate variability on calcium quantification and blur artifacts of the respective structures were analyzed by linear regression analysis. Mean heart rate and heart rate variability during data acquisition were 76 ± 17 beats per minute (bpm) and 4 ± 6 bpm, respectively. CAC scores were smaller on 66 ms (median, 511; interquartile range, 220-978) than on 125 ms reconstructions (538; 203-1050, p < 0.001). Median AVC scores [2809 (2009-3952) versus 3177 (2158-4273)] and median MAC scores [226 (0-1284) versus 251 (0-1574)] were also significantly smaller on 66ms than on 125ms reconstructions (p < 0.001). Reclassification of CAC and AVC risk categories occurred in 4% and 11% of cases, respectively, whereby the risk category was always overestimated on 125ms reconstructions. Image blur artifacts were significantly less on 66ms as opposed to 125 ms reconstructions (p < 0.001). Intra-individual analyses indicate that temporal resolution significantly impacts on calcium scoring with cardiac CT, with CAC, MAC, and AVC being overestimated at lower temporal resolution because of increased motion artifacts eventually leading to an overestimation of patient risk.

Pulmonary Impedance and Wave Reflections in Adults with Mitral Stenosis: Immediate and Follow-Up Effects of Balloon Valvuloplasty

PURPOSE

We compared adults with mitral stenosis (MS) to 8 controls (CONT) to see how pulmonary impedance and wave reflections differ at baseline and after balloon valvuloplasty.

METHODS

We separated the MS patients into groups according to mean pulmonary artery pressure: moderate (MOD; ≤ 26 mmHg, n = 21) and high (HIGH; > 26 mmHg, n = 33). We made baseline high-fidelity measurements in all patients, in the MS groups after vasodilation with nitroprusside, immediately and 4 months after balloon valvuloplasty.

RESULTS

Comparing MOD vs CONT, using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni correction, reveals evidence for higher baseline input resistance (R) (489 vs 205 dyne-sec/cm5, P = 0.07); first harmonic of impedance modulus (Z1) (97.3 vs 27.6 dyne-sec/cm5, P = 0.01); first zero crossing of impedance phase angle (F0) (4.49° vs 2.19°, P = 0.02) but no difference in wave reflection index (Pb/Pf). Baseline HIGH vs CONT comparisons reveal stronger evidence and larger differences than MOD for R (995 vs 205, P < 0.001); Z1 (151 vs 27.6, P < 0.001); F0 (5.25 vs 2.19, P < 0.001); as well as Pb/Pf (0.69 vs 0.42, P < 0.001). Responses to nitroprusside and valvuloplasty are also greater in the HIGH than MOD, but the HIGH parameters still differ from the CONT. Four months after valvuloplasty there is evidence for reverse remodeling in both groups. Further analyses reveal that sinus rhythm and younger age are potentially important factors for remodeling.

CONCLUSION

MS causes alterations in pulmonary hemodynamics that differ according to pressure levels. These changes are only partially reversed immediately after valvuloplasty. There is evidence for reverse remodeling 4 months afterwards.

The Impact of Pleural Effusion on Long-Term Mortality in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Background/Objectives: Pleural effusions may be seen in patients with severe AS complicated by hemodynamically significant heart failure. However, there are no data on the association between pleural effusion and long-term mortality in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). This study aimed to assess the impact of pre-procedural pleural effusion on long-term mortality in these patients. Methods: A retrospective, single-center analysis was conducted on 401 patients who underwent TAVI between January 2010 and December 2023. The patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence of pleural effusion, which was assessed via pre-procedural imaging using thoracic computed tomography (CT). Results: Pleural effusion was present in 158 patients (39.4%). The patients with pleural effusion had significantly higher long-term mortality rates compared to those without pleural effusion (46.2% vs. 24.3%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified pleural effusion as an independent predictor of long-term mortality (HR: 1.568, 95% CI: 1.065-2.308, p = 0.023). Also, the patients with pleural effusions had a higher long-term mortality rate compared with those without pleural effusions (log-rank p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pre-procedural pleural effusion is independently associated with increased long-term mortality in TAVI patients. Early recognition and management of pleural effusion are critical for optimizing outcomes in this high-risk population.

Short-term outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in patients with concomitant mitral or tricuspid regurgitation

Mitral regurgitation (MR) or tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is often an indicator of poor prognosis in patients with aortic stenosis (AS). Our study aims to compare transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) outcomes in patients with and without concomitant MR or isolated TR. Using the national readmission database (2016-2020), we identified patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI. We used multivariable regression for adjusted analysis and the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) model. Among 315,163 hospitalizations for TAVI, 14,577 (4.6 %) had concomitant MR, while 3859 (1.2 %) had isolated TR. On PSM, TAVI in concomitant MR was associated with higher acute CHF (50.1 % vs 43.7 %, p-value < 0.001), mechanical circulatory support (MCS) need (1.5 % vs 0.9 %, p-value: 0.001), acute myocardial infarction (5.6 % vs. 4.3 %, p-value < 0.001) and net adverse events (61.5 % vs. 59.2 %, p-value: 0.002) while the mortality difference was not significant (p > 0.05). Higher total costs ($58,104 vs $55,183, p-value < 0.001), 90- (22.8 % vs. 21.2 %), and 180-day readmission rates (32.1 % vs. 29.4 %) were also observed [p-value < 0.05]. Similarly, TAVI in the presence of isolated TR was associated with higher cardiogenic shock (3.2 % vs. 1.8 %, p: 0.004) and MCS need (1.5 % vs 0.7 %, p: 0.009). TAVI with coexisting TR showed higher rates of 30-day (13.4 % vs. 11.2 %), 90-day (26 % vs. 21.2 %), and 180-day (34.3 % vs 29.1 %) readmission rates [p < 0.05]. A higher median length of stay (3 vs. 2 days) and total cost ($60,376 vs. $55,183) [p-value < 0.001] were also observed. TAVI in concomitant MR or TR was associated with higher periprocedural adverse events, increased healthcare burden & readmission rates.

Aortic Valve Replacement in the Current Era

Aortic valve disease (AVD) is a highly prevalent condition worldwide. Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is the surgical treatment for those with severe disease. Common etiologies of AVD include aortic stenosis (AS), aortic insufficiency (AI), endocarditis, and congenital diseases. Shared decision-making plays a large role in the treatment methodology chosen for each patient. Selection of valve type and surgical intervention requires strong considerations of age and compatibility with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) to ensure optimal post-operative outcomes. Due to the development of novel surgical techniques, including transcatheter AVR (TAVR) and placement of sutureless valves, patients who previously had limited access to AVD surgical options can now be considered for AVR. Further research into therapeutic development is imperative to improve patient short- and long-term outcomes as well as widen surgical candidacy for those seeking AVR for the management of AVD. Overall, AVR will continue to hold its prominent role in the treatment of AVD.

Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Conservative Management in Patients With Asymptomatic Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is recommended for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients. However, evidence of its role in asymptomatic patients with severe AS remains controversial. Hence, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing AVR to conservative management in patients with asymptomatic severe AS was conducted. A systematic literature search was performed on electronic databases including MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL Library until November 2024. A random effects model was used to pool individual risk ratios (RRs) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Review Manager Version 5.4.1 to calculate pooled effect estimates. Three randomized controlled trials with 1203 patients (42% females) were included. On pooled analysis, AVR significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization for heart failure (RR = 0.11, CI: 0.02-0.56, P = 0.008) compared with conservative care. However, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in all-cause mortality (RR = 0.63, CI: 0.36-1.11, P = 0.11), stroke (RR = 0.59, CI: 0.35-1.01, P = 0.05), myocardial infarction (RR = 0.43, CI: 0.06-2.92, P = 0.38), or thromboembolic events (RR = 0.54, CI: 0.13-2.29, P = 0.40). In asymptomatic patients with severe AS, AVR significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure, with comparable risks in terms of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and thromboembolic events compared with conservative management.

Multiparametric Outcome Assessment After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation-A Systematic Review

Backround/Objectives: Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most commonly acquired valvular disorder. Patient risk stratification and the development of an accurate and reliable tool are crucial in identifying suitable candidates for TAVI. The present review summarized the current state of knowledge on the influence of selected factors on the outcomes and course of patients with AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods: The inclusion criteria for the present systematic review were as follows: (1) studies indexed in the medical databases PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus; (2) full-text articles available in English; (3) papers published between 2013 and 2023; and (4) addressing the topic of assessing the impact of factors on the outcomes of patients with aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI. This review used PRISMA 2020 reporting guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Results: One hundred and thirty-two studies were eligible for this review. The available studies showed an association of psychosocial and socioeconomic factors, valve parameters, comorbidities, clinical factors, treatment-related factors, biomarkers, and treatment methods with the outcomes of patients with AS undergoing TAVI. Conclusions: Given the conflicting results obtained regarding the impact of right ventricular dysfunction, paravalvular leaks, and treatment method on the mortality of patients undergoing aortic valve implantation, further research in these areas is needed. In view of the researchers' differing views on some of the factors affecting patient outcomes after TAVI, further analysis is needed to develop a new tool for assessing predictive outcomes in AS patients. This study is registered at PROSPERO (CRD42024612752).

Acute Coronary Syndromes after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Incidence, Unique Mechanisms, and Outcomes

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a first-line management option across all risk categories of elderly patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. As the indications of TAVI expand, the age and the surgical risk of patients who undergo TAVI is decreasing making lifetime management after TAVI more compelling. After TAVI, patients endure an incremental risk of acute coronary syndromes, which have unique mechanisms and management challenges that are yet to be fully understood. In this report, we review the mechanisms, the natural history, and the management of post-TAVI acute coronary syndromes.

Assessment of Knowledge and Training Needs for the Clinical Management of Warfarin Anticoagulation Among Physicians in China

Objective

To assess the knowledge level of physicians on anticoagulation management and identify their training needs to ensure the safety and efficacy of warfarin therapy among patients.

Methods

This project adopted convenient sampling and collected survey questionnaires online to investigate physicians' management level in aspects such as basic anticoagulation knowledge, routine adjustment of warfarin dosage, and management of warfarin complications and special situations after mechanical valve replacement.

Results

Among the 232 participants in this survey, 158 were male (68.10%), and 74 were female (31.90%); Grade III hospitals accounted for 61.21%; cardiovascular medicine department accounted for 65.09%; primary, intermediate, and advanced title holders each accounted for about one-third. The respondents had a good foundation in warfarin anticoagulation knowledge, and most physicians could guide patients in anticoagulation treatment. However, there were still many respondents who answered incorrectly on some basic questions. Using the chi-square test, the analysis of the impact of gender, age, hospital level, department, education, and title on the knowledge level of warfarin anticoagulation found that gender had no statistical significance in all items; age, department, and title had statistically significant differences in the impact on the knowledge level of anticoagulation in the respondent (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The respondents have good anticoagulation knowledge on basic items, but some healthcare professionals have insufficient understanding of some items, such as the approximate time required for INR to reach a stable value and the use of warfarin in pregnant women, posing significant risks in clinical work. Relevant healthcare professional training should be strengthened on extended knowledge on warfarin.