Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients With Aortic Stenosis and Chronic Kidney Disease

A risk model of mortality rate in dialysis patients following transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Dialysis patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) generally have poor prognosis compared with non-dialysis patients. Furthermore, there are few reliable risk models in this clinical setting. Therefore, we aimed to establish a risk model in dialysis patients undergoing TAVR that would be informative for their prognosis and the decision-making process of TAVR.

METHODS

A total 118 dialysis patients (full cohort) with severe aortic stenosis underwent TAVR in our institute between 2012 and 2022. The patients of the full cohort were randomly assigned to two groups in a 2:1 ratio to form derivation and validation cohorts. Risk factors contributing to deaths were analyzed from the preoperative variables and a risk model was established from Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

There were 69 deaths following TAVR derived from infectious disease (43.5 %), cardiovascular-related disease (11.6 %), cerebral stroke or hemorrhage (2.9 %), cancer (1.4 %), unknown origin (18.8 %), and others (21.7 %) during the observational period (811 ± 719 days). The cumulative overall survival rates using the Kaplan-Meier method at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years in the full cohort were 82.8 %, 41.9 %, and 24.2 %, respectively. An optimal risk model composed of five contributors: peripheral vascular disease, serum albumin, left ventricular ejection fraction < 40 %, operative age, and hemoglobin level, was established. The estimated C index for the developed models were 0.748 (95 % CI: 0.672-0.824) in derivation cohort and 0.705 (95 % CI: 0.578-0.832) in validation cohort. The prediction model showed good calibration [intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.937 (95%CI: 0.806-0.981)] between actual and predicted survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk model was a good indicator to estimate the prognosis in dialysis patients undergoing TAVR.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgical aortic valve replacement in chronic kidney disease: Meta-analysis of reconstructed time-to-event data

BACKGROUND

Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) are a challenging and understudied population. Specifically, the late outcomes following surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with CKD remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

To compare overall mortality risk in patients with moderate-to-severe CKD following TAVI versus SAVR.

METHODS

Study-level meta-analysis of reconstructed time-to-event data from Kaplan-Meier curves of studies published by August 2022.

RESULTS

Nine studies met our inclusion criteria. Patients who underwent TAVI had a higher 5-year mortality compared with patients undergoing SAVR in the overall population (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.44-1.69, P < 0.001) and in populations with similar risk scores (HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.31, P = 0.035). The landmark analysis revealed a lower risk of 30-day mortality with TAVI (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.41-0.94, P = 0.023), followed by similar risk until 7.5 months (HR 1, 95% CI 0.78-1.27, P = 0.978). In contrast, the landmark analysis beyond 7.5 months yielded a reversal of the HR in favor of SAVR (TAVI with HR 1.27, 95% CI 1.08-1.49 P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with CKD, TAVI provides an initial survival benefit over SAVR. However, in the long run, a significant survival benefit of SAVR over TAVI was observed. Our findings highlight the need for randomized controlled trials to investigate outcomes in this special population.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with chronic kidney disease: a multi-centre retrospective study

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common comorbid condition in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Reported outcome studies on the association of baseline CKD and mortality is currently limited.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of chronic kidney disease in patients undergoing TAVR and analyse their overall procedural outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was conducted at 43 publicly funded hospitals in Hong Kong. Severe aortic stenosis patients undergoing TAVR between the years 2010 and 2019 were enroled in the study. Two groups were identified according to the presence of baseline chronic kidney disease.

Results

A total of 499 patients (228, 58.6% men) were enroled in the study. Baseline hypertension was more prevalent in patients with CKD (82.8%; P=0.003). As for primary end-points, mortality rates of CKD patients were significantly higher compared to non-CKD patients (10% vs. 4.1%; P=0.04%). Gout and hypertension were found to be significantly associated with CRF. Patients with gout were nearly six times more likely to have CRF than those without gout (odds ratio = 5.96, 95% CI = 3.12-11.29, P<0.001). Patients with hypertension had three times the likelihood of having CRF compared to those without hypertension (odds ratio=2.83, 95% CI=1.45-6.08, P=0.004).

Conclusion

In patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR, baseline CKD significantly contributes to mortality outcomes at long-term follow up.

Disparity among Asian Americans in transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Racial disparities in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) outcomes have been established, but research has predominantly focused on African Americans and Hispanics, leaving a gap in Asian Americans. This study aimed to investigate disparities in aortic valve replacement outcomes among Asian Americans.

METHODS

Patients who underwent SAVR and TAVR were identified in National Inpatient Sample from the last quarter of 2015-2020. A 1:2 propensity score matching was applied to Asian Americans and Caucasians. In-hospital perioperative outcomes, length of stay, days from admission to operation, and total hospital charge, were compared.

RESULTS

In TAVR, 51,394 (84.41 %) were Caucasians and 795 (1.31 %) were Asian Americans. In SAVR, there were 50,080 (78.52 %) Caucasians and 1233 (1.93 %) Asian Americans. No significant difference was found in post-TAVR complications. However, Asian Americans experienced longer waiting time until operation (p = 0.03) and higher costs (p < 0.01) in TAVR. In SAVR, Asian Americans had higher risks of in-hospital mortality (3.91 % vs 2.39 %, p = 0.01), cardiogenic shock (8.71 % vs 6.74 %, p = 0.03), respiratory complications (14.08 % vs 11.2 %, p = 0.01), mechanical ventilation (13.83 % vs 9.09 %, p < 0.01), acute kidney injury (25.47 % vs 20.13 %, p < 0.01), and hemorrhage/hematoma (72.01 % vs 62.95 %, p < 0.01). Additionally, Asian Americans underwent SAVR had longer lengths of stay (p < 0.01) and higher costs (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Asian Americans were underrepresented in aortic valve replacement. Asian Americans, while having similar post-TAVR outcomes to Caucasians, faced greater risks of post-SAVR mortality and surgical complications. These disparities among Asian Americans call for targeted actions to ensure equitable health outcomes.

Chronic kidney disease is a key risk factor for aortic stenosis progression

BACKGROUND

Rapid progression of aortic stenosis (AS) has been observed in patients undergoing dialysis, but existing cross-sectional evidence is contradictory in non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD). The present study sought to evaluate whether CKD is associated with the progression of AS over time in a large cohort of patients with AS.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied all consecutive patients diagnosed with AS [peak aortic jet velocity (Vmax) ≥2.5 m/s] and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% in the echocardiography laboratories of two tertiary centers between 2000 and 2018. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (mL/min/1.73 m2) was calculated from serum creatinine values. Patients were divided into five CKD stages according to the baseline eGFR. Annual rates of change in the aortic valve area (AVA) were determined by a linear mixed-effects model.

RESULTS

Among the 647 patients included, 261 (40%) had CKD. After a median follow-up of 2.9 (interquartile range 1.8-4.8) years, the mean overall rate of change in AVA was -0.077 (95% confidence interval -0.082; -0.073) cm2/year. There was an inverse relationship between the progression rate and kidney function. The more severe the CKD stage, the greater the AVA narrowing (P < .001). By multivariable linear regression analysis, the eGFR was also negatively associated (P < .001) with AS progression. An eGFR strata below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 was associated with higher odds of rapid progression of AS than normal kidney function. During the clinical follow-up, event-free survival (patients free of aortic valve replacement or death) decreased as CKD progressed. Rapid progression of AS in patients with kidney dysfunction was associated with worse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with CKD exhibit more rapid progression of AS over time and require close monitoring. The link between kidney dysfunction and rapid progression of AS is still unknown and requires further research.

Independent association of aortic stenosis with many known cardiovascular risk factors and many inflammatory diseases

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve stenosis is associated with age, rheumatic fever and bicuspid aortic valve, but its association with other co-morbidities, such as inflammatory disease and race/ethnicity, is less known.

AIM

To investigate any association between aortic stenosis and many co-morbidities.

METHODS

We used the large Nationwide Inpatient Sample database to evaluate any association between aortic stenosis and risk factors. We performed univariate and multivariable analyses, adjusting for co-morbid conditions.

RESULTS

Data were extracted from the first available database that used the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes specifically coding for aortic stenosis alone, spanning from 2016 to 2020 (n=112,982,565). A total of 2,322,649 patients had aortic stenosis; the remaining 110,659,916 served as controls. We found a strong and independent significant association between aortic stenosis and coronary artery disease (odds ratio [OR]: 2.11, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.09-2.13), smoking (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.07-1.08), diabetes mellitus (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.14-1.16), hypertension (OR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.4-1.42), hyperlipidaemia (OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.3-1.32), renal disease (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.29-1.31), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.04-1.05), obesity (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.29-1.32), white race/ethnicity (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.42-1.52), rheumatoid arthritis (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.11-1.15), scleroderma (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.79-2.09), systemic connective tissue disease (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.2-1.27), polyarteritis nodosa (OR: 1.5, CI: 1.24-1.81) and Raynaud's syndrome (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.09-1.24) (all P<0.001), in addition to known factors, such as age, male sex and bicuspid aortic valve.

CONCLUSION

Using a very large database, we found many new associations with aortic valve stenosis, including race/ethnicity, renal disease, several inflammatory diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and obesity, in addition to many other known cardiovascular risk factors.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgical aortic valve replacement in dialysis-dependent patients: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This meta-analysis aims to compare the clinical outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) versus aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic stenosis in dialysis-dependent patients.

METHODS

Literature searches employed PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Embase to identify relevant studies. Bias-treated data were prioritized, isolated and pooled for analysis; raw data were utilized where bias-treated data were unavailable. Outcomes were analysed to assess for study data crossover.

RESULTS

Literature search identified 10 retrospective studies; following data source analysis, five studies were included. Upon pooling of bias-treated data, TAVI was significantly favoured in early mortality [odds ratio (OR), 0.42; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.19-0.92; I2  = 92%; P  = 0.03], 1-year mortality (OR, 0.88; 95% CI 0.80-0.97; I2  = 0%; P  = 0.01), rates of stroke/cerebrovascular events (OR, 0.71; 95% CI 0.55-0.93; I2  = 0%; P  = 0.01) and blood transfusions (OR, 0.36; 95% CI 0.21-0.62; I2  = 86%; P  = 0.0002). Pooling demonstrated fewer new pacemaker implantations in the AVR group (OR, 3.33; 95% CI 1.94-5.73; I2  = 74%; P  ≤ 0.0001) and no difference in the rate of vascular complications (OR, 2.27; 95% CI 0.60-8.59; I2  = 83%; P  = 0.23). Analysis including raw data revealed the length of hospital stay to favour TAVI with a mean difference of -9.20 days (95% CI -15.58 to -2.82; I2  = 97%; P  = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Bias-treated meta-analysis comparing surgical AVR and TAVI favoured TAVI in early mortality, 1-year mortality, rates of stroke/cerebrovascular events and blood transfusions. There was no difference in the rates of vascular complications; however, TAVI required more pacemaker implantations. Data pooling including raw data revealed that the length of hospital admission favours TAVI.

NT-proBNP/urine hepcidin-25 ratio and cardiorenal syndrome type 1 in patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis

Background: This study aimed to determine whether novel and conventional cardiorenal biomarkers in patients before transcatheter aortic valve implantation may be associated with cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) type 1. Methods: Serum NT-proBNP and urine biomarkers (hepcidin-25, NGAL, IL-6) were measured before and 24 h after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Results: 16/95 patients had CRS type 1. Those patients had longer length of stay in hospital (12.5 [9.0-16.0] vs 9.0 [8-12] days; p = 0.025) and were more frequently readmitted to hospital within 6 months after discharge (46.7 vs 15.6%; odds ratio: 4.7; 95% CI: 1.5-15.5; p = 0.007). The NT-proBNP/urine hepcidin-25 ratio (odds ratio: 2.89; 95% CI: 1.30-6.41; p = 0.009) was an independent modifier of CRS type 1. Conclusion: The NT-proBNP/urine hepcidin-25 ratio appears to be a modifier of risk of CRS type 1.

Aortic Stenosis and Aortic Valve Replacement among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Aortic stenosis (AS) can present with dyspnea, angina, syncope, and palpitations, and this presents a diagnostic challenge as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and other commonly found comorbid conditions may present similarly. While medical optimization is an important aspect in management, aortic valve replacement (AVR) by surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is the definitive treatment. Patients with concomitant CKD and AS require special consideration as it is known that CKD is associated with progression of AS and poor long-term outcomes.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to summarize and review the current existing literature on patients with both CKD and AS regarding disease progression, dialysis methods, surgical intervention, and postoperative outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of AS increases with age but has also been independently associated with CKD and furthermore with hemodialysis (HD). Regular dialysis with HD versus peritoneal dialysis (PD) and female gender have been associated with progression of AS. Management of AS is multidisciplinary and requires planning and interventions by the heart-kidney team to decrease the risk of further inducing kidney injury among high-risk population. Both TAVR and SAVR are effective interventions for patients with severe symptomatic AS, but TAVR has been associated with better short-term renal and cardiovascular outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Special consideration must be given to patients with both CKD and AS. The choice of whether to undergo HD versus PD among patients with CKD is multifactorial, but studies have shown benefit regarding AS progression among those who undergo PD. The choice regarding AVR approach is likewise the same. TAVR has been associated with decreased complications among CKD patients, but the decision is multifactorial and requires a comprehensive discussion with the heart-kidney team as many other factors play a role in the decision including preference, prognosis, and other risk factors.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement-Associated Acute Kidney Injury: An Update

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a relatively novel minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of symptomatic patients with severe aortic stenosis. Although it has been proven effective in improving mortality and quality of life, TAVR is associated with serious complications, such as acute kidney injury (AKI).

SUMMARY

TAVR-associated AKI is likely due to several factors such as sustained hypotension, transapical approach, volume of contrast use, and baseline low GFR. This narrative review aims to present an overview of the latest literature and evidence regarding the definition of TAVR-associated AKI, its risk factors, and its impact on morbidity and mortality. The review used a systematic search strategy with multiple health-focused databases (Medline, EMBASE) and identified 8 clinical trials and 27 observational studies concerning TAVR-associated AKI. Results showed that TAVR-associated AKI is linked to several modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors and is associated with higher mortality. A variety of diagnostic imaging modalities have the potential to identify patients at high risk for development of TAVR-AKI; however, there are no existing consensus recommendations regarding their use as of this time. The implications of these findings highlight the importance of identifying high-risk patients for which preventive measures may play a crucial role, and should be maximized.

KEY MESSAGE

This study reviews the current understanding of TAVR-associated AKI including its pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic modalities, and preventative management for patients.

Effect of Myocardial Tissue Characterization Using Native T1 to Predict the Occurrence of Adverse Events in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease and Severe Aortic Stenosis

Among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), aortic stenosis (AS) is associated with a significantly higher rate of mortality. We aimed to evaluate whether diffuse myocardial fibrosis, determined using native T1 mapping, has prognostic utility in predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), including all-cause mortality or heart failure hospitalization, in patients with CKD and severe AS who are evaluated for transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Cardiac magnetic resonance with T1 mapping using the modified Look-Locker inversion recovery technique was performed in 117 consecutive patients with severe AS and CKD (stage ≥3). Patients were followed up to determine the occurrence of MACE. The mean age of the 117 patients in the cohort was 82 ± 8 years. Native T1 was 1,055 ms (25th- to 75th percentiles 1,031 to 1,078 ms), which is higher than previously reported in healthy controls. Patients with higher T1 times were more likely to have higher N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels (4,122 [IQR 1,578 to 7,980] pg/ml vs 1,678 [IQR 493 to 2,851] pg/ml, p = 0.005) and a history of heart failure (33% vs 9%, p = 0.034). After median follow-up of 3.4 years, MACE occurred in 71 patients (61%). The Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality score (hazard ratio [HR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02 to 1.12, p = 0.006), native T1 >1,024 ms (HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.09 to 4.06, p = 0.028), and New York Heart Association class (HR 1.56, 95% 1.09 to 2.34, p = 0.016) were independent predictors of MACE. Longer native T1 was associated with MACE occurrence in patients with CKD and severe AS.

[Current aspects of heart-kidney interactions : Summary of important clinical studies from 2020]

Patients with chronic kidney diseases show an increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Last year a number of important studies on heart-kidney interaction were published, which are summarized and discussed in this article. In the DAPA-CKD study and the SCORED study two different sodium-glucose linked transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (dapagliflozin and sotagliflozin) were found to improve the prognosis of patients with chronic kidney diseases with and without diabetes. The results of the randomized study on the new mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenon (FIDELIO-DKD) also provided a very promising novel treatment approach for patients with diabetic nephropathy. The published data of the ISCHEMIA-CKD study in patients with coronary heart disease and investigations on the influence of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on renal function as well as another study on acute kidney failure after MitraClip® (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA) implantation provide important indications for future treatment recommendations. The optimal timing of the initiation of kidney replacement therapy in patients with acute kidney damage in intensive care medicine was investigated in two randomized studies, which are correspondingly discussed.

Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Patients With Chronic and End-Stage Kidney Disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) are at higher risk of aortic stenosis. Data regarding transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in these patients are limited. Herein, we aim to investigate TAVI outcomes in patients with ESKD and CKD. We analyzed clinical data of patients with ESKD and CKD who underwent TAVI from 2008 to 2018 in a large urban healthcare system. Patients' demographics were compared, and significant morbidity and mortality outcomes were noted. Multivariable analyses were used to adjust for potential baseline variables. A total of 643 patients with CKD underwent TAVI with an overall in-hospital mortality of 5.1%, whereas 84 patients with ESKD underwent TAVI with an overall mortality rate of 11.9%. The most frequently observed comorbidities in patients with CKD were heart failure, atrial fibrillation (AF), mitral stenosis (MS), pulmonary hypertension, and chronic lung disease. After multivariable analysis, MS (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.92; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09 to 11.1, p <0.05) and AF (adjusted OR 2.42; 95% CI 1.3 to 4.4 p <0.05) were independently associated with mortality in patients with CKD. The most common comorbidities observed in patients with ESKD undergoing TAVI were heart failure, chronic lung disease, AF, MS, and pulmonary hypertension. An association between MS and increased mortality was observed (adjusted OR 2.01; 95 CI 0.93 to 2.02, p = 0.09) in patients with ESKD, but was not statistically significant. In conclusion, in patients with CKD undergoing TAVI, AF and MS were independently associated with increased mortality.

Valvular Heart Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is highly prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) from the early stages to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Aortic and mitral valves are the most frequently affected, leading to aortic valve and/or mitral annular calcification, which, in turn, causes either valve stenosis or regurgitation at an accelerated rate compared with the general population. Tricuspid regurgitation is also prevalent in CKD and ESRD, and haemodialysis patients are at an increasingly high risk of infective endocarditis. As for pathophysiology, several mechanisms causing VHD in CKD have been proposed, highlighting the complexity of the process. Echocardiography constitutes the gold standard for the assessment of VHD in CKD/ESRD patients, despite the progress of other imaging modalities. With regard to treatment, the existing 2017 European Society of Cardiology/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery guidelines on the management of VHD addressing patients with normal kidney function are also applied to patients with CKD/ESRD.

Aortic stenosis in chronic kidney disease: challenges in diagnosis and treatment

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming increasingly common and is associated with development and rapid progression of aortic stenosis (AS). Patients with AS and CKD have higher mortality rates than those with AS of similar severity and normal kidney function. The diagnosis of severe AS in patients with CKD is often challenging due to alterations in haemodynamics and heart structure, and integration of data from multiple imaging modalities may be required. When indicated, the definitive treatment for severe AS is aortic valve replacement. Patients with CKD are candidates for bioprosthetic valve replacement (surgical or transcatheter aortic valve implantation) or mechanical valve replacement. However, for patients with CKD, lifetime management is complex, as patients with CKD have a higher competing risk of bioprosthetic structural valve deterioration, bleeding in the setting of systemic anticoagulation and mortality related to CKD itself. The involvement of a heart-kidney multidisciplinary team in the care of patients with CKD and severe AS is ideal to navigate the complexities of diagnosis and management decisions.

Aortic Root Dilatation Is Attenuated with Diabetes but Is Not Associated with Renal Progression in Chronic Kidney Disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often have cardiac functional and structural abnormalities which can lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this study, we investigated associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and cardiac functional and structural parameters in patients with CKD focusing on aortic root diameter (ARD). We also investigated associations of renal outcomes with DM and cardiac functional and structural characteristics. We enrolled 419 patients with CKD stage 3–5 were enrolled. ARD was normalized to body surface area (BSA) (ARD/BSA), and the rate of decline in renal function was assessed by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope (mL/min/1.73 m²/year). ARD/BSA ≥2.1 cm/m² in men or ≥2.2 cm/m² in women was defined as indicating aortic root dilatation. The patients with DM had lower ARD/BSA, higher left atrial dimension (LAD), lower left ventricular ejection fraction, lower ratio of peak early transmitral filling wave velocity to peak late transmitral filling wave velocity, and higher left ventricular relative wall thickness, than those without DM. After multivariable analysis, DM (vs. non-DM; coefficient β, −0.060; p = 0.018) was significantly associated with low ARD/BSA. Significantly fewer patients with DM had aortic root dilatation compared to those without DM (14.3% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.022). In the patients with DM, there were significant associations between a high left ventricular mass index (LVMI) (per 1 g/m², β, −0.016; p = 0.040) and high LAD (per 1 cm; β, −1.965; p < 0.001) with a low eGFR slope. However, other parameters, including ARD/BSA, were not associated with eGFR slope. Furthermore, there were no associations between eGFR slope and any of the echocardiographic parameters in the patients without DM. Aortic root dilatation was attenuated in the patients with DM, but it was not associated with a decline in renal function. However, high LAD and LVMI were associated with rapid renal function decline in the CKD patients with DM.

Inferior outcomes following cardiac surgery in patients with a functioning renal allograft

OBJECTIVES

Renal transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage renal failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes for these patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis identified patients with a functioning renal allograft at the time of surgery. A 2:1 propensity matching was performed. Patients were matched on: age, sex, left ventricle function, body mass index, preoperative creatinine, operation priority, operation category and logistic EuroSCORE.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients undergoing surgery with a functioning renal allograft were identified. The mean age was 62.4 years and 66% were male. A total of 44.7% underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and 26.3% underwent a single valve procedure. The mean logistic EuroSCORE was 10.65. The control population of 76 patients was well matched. Patients undergoing surgery following renal transplantation had a prolonged length of intensive care unit (3.19 vs 1.02 days, P < 0.001) and hospital stay (10.3 vs 7.17 days, P = 0.05). There was a higher in-hospital mortality (15.8% vs 1.3%, P = 0.0027). Longer-term survival on Kaplan-Meier analysis was also inferior (P < 0.001). One-year survival was 78.9% vs 96.1% and 5-year survival was 63.2% vs 90.8%. A further subpopulation of 11 patients with a failed renal allograft was identified and excluded from the main analysis; we report demographic and outcome data for them.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a functioning renal allograft are at higher risk of perioperative mortality and inferior long-term survival following cardiac surgery. Patients in this population should be appropriately informed at the time of consent and should be managed cautiously in the perioperative period with the aim of reducing morbidity and mortality.

Association between mid-term worsening renal function and mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with chronic kidney disease

INTRODUCTION

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI) and worsening renal function at 30 days after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) portend poor outcomes. We sought to evaluate the association between worsening renal function at 3-6 months and mortality among patients with baseline renal dysfunction undergoing TAVR.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 ml/min undergoing TAVR between June 2011 and March 2019 at the Regional Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles. Worsening renal function at 3-6 months post-TAVR was defined as: increase in serum creatinine >1.5 times compared to baseline, absolute increase of ≥0.3 mg/dl, or initiation of dialysis.

RESULTS

Of 683 patients reviewed, 176 were included in the analysis (median age 84 [IQR 79-88] years, 56% female). Of these, 27 (15.3%) had worsening renal function. AKI post-TAVR (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.1-7.4, p = .03) and transfusion of ≥4 units red blood cells (OR 8.4, 95% CI 1.2-59, p = .03) were independent predictors of worsening renal function. Worsening renal function increased risk for mortality (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.17-4.27, p = .015) at a median follow-up of 691 days. Those with improved/stable function with baseline GFR < 60 ml/min had comparable mortality risk to those with baseline GFR ≥ 60 ml/min (18% vs. 16.5%; HR 1.1, 95% CI 0.72-1.75, p = .62).

CONCLUSION

Among patients with baseline renal dysfunction, only 15% developed worsening renal function at 3-6 months after TAVR, which was associated with increased mortality. Predictors for worsening renal function include AKI and blood transfusions. Preventative measures peri-procedurally and continued monitoring post-discharge are warranted to improve outcomes.

Mildly Increased Renin Expression in the Absence of Kidney Injury in the Murine Transverse Aortic Constriction Model

Cardiorenal syndrome type 2 is characterized by kidney failure as a consequence of heart failure that affects >50% of heart failure patients. Murine transverse aortic constriction (TAC) is a heart failure model, where pressure overload is induced on the heart without any systemic hypertension or its consequences. Whether renal function is altered in this model is debated, and if so, at which time post-TAC renal dysfunction starts to contribute to worsening of cardiac function. We therefore studied the effects of progressive heart failure development on kidney function in the absence of chronically elevated systemic blood pressure and renal perfusion pressure. C57BL/6J mice (N = 129) were exposed to TAC using a minimally invasive technique and followed from 3 to 70 days post-TAC. Cardiac function was determined with 3D ultrasound and showed a gradual decrease in stroke volume over time. Renal renin expression and plasma renin concentration increased with progressive heart failure, suggesting hypoperfusion of the kidney. In addition, plasma urea concentration, a surrogate marker for renal dysfunction, was increased post-TAC. However, no structural abnormalities in the kidney, nor albuminuria were present at any time-point post-TAC. Progressive heart failure is associated with increased renin expression, but only mildly affected renal function without inducing structural injury. In combination, these data suggest that heart failure alone does not contribute to kidney dysfunction in mice.

Evaluation and Management of Aortic Stenosis in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Aortic stenosis with concomitant chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a clinical challenge. Aortic stenosis is more prevalent and progresses more rapidly and unpredictably in CKD, and the presence of CKD is associated with worse short-term and long-term outcomes after aortic valve replacement. Because patients with advanced CKD and end-stage kidney disease have been excluded from randomized trials, clinicians need to make complex management decisions in this population that are based on retrospective and observational evidence. This statement summarizes the epidemiological and pathophysiological characteristics of aortic stenosis in the context of CKD, evaluates the nuances and prognostic information provided by noninvasive cardiovascular imaging with echocardiography and advanced imaging techniques, and outlines the special risks in this population. Furthermore, this statement provides a critical review of the existing literature pertaining to clinical outcomes of surgical versus transcatheter aortic valve replacement in this high-risk population to help guide clinical decision making in the choice of aortic valve replacement and specific prosthesis. Finally, this statement provides an approach to the perioperative management of these patients, with special attention to a multidisciplinary heart-kidney collaborative team-based approach.

Impact of pre-existing comorbidities on outcomes of patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement - rationale and design of the international IMPACT registry

Background

Degenerative aortic valve disease accounts for 10–20% of all cardiac surgical procedures. The impact of pre-existing comorbidities on the outcome of patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) needs further research.

Methods

The IMPACT registry is a non-interventional, prospective, open-label, multicenter, international registry with a follow-up of 5 years to assess the impact of pre-existing comorbidities of patients undergoing SAVR with the INSPIRIS RESILIA aortic valve on outcomes. IMPACT will be conducted across 25 sites in Austria, Germany, The Netherlands and Switzerland and intends to enroll approximately 500 patients. Patients will be included if they are at least 18 years of age and are scheduled to undergo SAVR with the INSPIRIS RESILIA Aortic Valve with or without concomitant ascending aortic root replacement and/or coronary bypass surgery. The primary objective is to determine all-cause mortality at 1, 3, and 5 years post SAVR. Secondary objectives include cardiac-related and valve-related mortality and structural valve deterioration including hemodynamics and durability, valve performance and further clinical outcomes in the overall study population and in specific patient subgroups characterized by the presence of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome and/or chronic inflammation.

Discussion

IMPACT is a prospective, multicenter European registry, which will provide much-needed data on the impact of pre-existing comorbidities on patient outcomes and prosthetic valve performance, and in particular the performance of the INSPIRIS RESILIA, in a real-world setting. The findings of this study may help to support and expand appropriate patient selection for treatment with bioprostheses.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04053088.

Cardiovascular Disease in Chronic Kidney Disease: Pathophysiological Insights and Therapeutic Options

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) exhibit an elevated cardiovascular risk manifesting as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Although the incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular events is already significantly higher in patients with early CKD stages (CKD stages 1-3) compared with the general population, patients with advanced CKD stages (CKD stages 4-5) exhibit a markedly elevated risk. Cardiovascular rather than end-stage kidney disease (CKD stage 5) is the leading cause of death in this high-risk population. CKD causes a systemic, chronic proinflammatory state contributing to vascular and myocardial remodeling processes resulting in atherosclerotic lesions, vascular calcification, and vascular senescence as well as myocardial fibrosis and calcification of cardiac valves. In this respect, CKD mimics an accelerated aging of the cardiovascular system. This overview article summarizes the current understanding and clinical consequences of cardiovascular disease in CKD.

Vascular pathologies in chronic kidney disease: pathophysiological mechanisms and novel therapeutic approaches

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Both conditions are rising in incidence as well as prevalence, creating poor outcomes for patients and high healthcare costs. Recent data suggests CKD to be an independent risk factor for CVD. Accumulation of uremic toxins, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress have been identified to act as CKD-specific alterations that increase cardiovascular risk. The association between CKD and cardiovascular mortality is markedly influenced through vascular alterations, in particular atherosclerosis and vascular calcification (VC). While numerous risk factors promote atherosclerosis by inducing endothelial dysfunction and its progress to vascular structural damage, CKD affects the medial layer of blood vessels primarily through VC. Ongoing research has identified VC to be a multifactorial, cell-mediated process in which numerous abnormalities like mineral dysregulation and especially hyperphosphatemia induce a phenotype switch of vascular smooth muscle cells to osteoblast-like cells. A combination of pro-calcifying stimuli and an impairment of inhibiting mechanisms like fetuin A and vitamin K-dependent proteins like matrix Gla protein and Gla-rich protein leads to mineralization of the extracellular matrix. In view of recent studies, intercellular communication pathways via extracellular vesicles and microRNAs represent key mechanisms in VC and thereby a promising field to a deeper understanding of the involved pathomechanisms. In this review, we provide an overview about pathophysiological mechanisms connecting CKD and CVD. Special emphasis is laid on vascular alterations and more recently discovered molecular pathways which present possible new therapeutic targets.

Development of aortic valve stenosis in myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis with renal involvement

Introduction

Degenerative aortic valve stenosis (AS) is a chronic progressive disease that resembles atherosclerosis development. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is reportedly associated with accelerated atherosclerosis. This study aimed to examine the development of AS in patients with myeloperoxidase-AAV (MPO-AAV) with renal involvement at more than 1 year after the onset of vasculitis.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of clinical records of MPO-AAV patients with renal involvement without AS at the onset of vasculitis who were treated in three hospitals and three dialysis clinics.

Results

The study included 97 MPO-AAV patients with renal involvement and 230 control patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Among them, 64 patients had AS. The prevalence rates of AS were 28.9% and 15.7% in MPO-AAV and control patients, respectively (p = 0.006). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that MPO-AAV, dialysis dependence, and hypertension were independently associated factors for AS. In MPO-AAV patients, systolic blood pressure was positively significantly associated with AS, whereas glucocorticoid dose of induction therapy was negatively significantly associated. The use of cyclophosphamide tended to be negatively associated with AS. The survival rate was significantly lower for patients with AS than for those without AS.

Conclusions

The AS prevalence rate was significantly higher in MPO-AAV patients at more than 1 year after the onset of vasculitis than in control CKD patients. Therefore, regular monitoring of echocardiography during MPO-AAV treatment is suggested.

Valvular heart disease in patients with chronic kidney disease

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is common in patients with impaired renal function, especially in those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis. Progressive sclerosis and calcification of the valves and valvular annuli are major components of the etiology. These processes typically affect the aortic and mitral valve and can lead to both valvular insufficiency and stenosis. As recommended by the 2017 ESC/EACTS Guidelines for the management of VHD, surgical treatment remains the standard care for most cases of severe VHD. However, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with increased mortality when compared with patients with preserved renal function. Interventional treatment options have emerged as an effective and safe alternative for patients older than 75 years and/or with increased surgical risk. Consequently, in patients with CKD at increased surgical risk who have suitable anatomical morphology, transcatheter replacement and/or repair should be discussed in the interdisciplinary "heart team."

Trends of utilization and outcomes after transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement on chronic dialysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Trends of utilization and outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for patients on chronic dialysis (CD) are not well described. We aimed to assess the trends in utilization and outcomes of TAVR and SAVR on CD.

METHODS

Nationwide Readmission Databases from 2013 to 2017 was analyzed. International Classification of Diseases Clinical Modification 9 and 10 codes were used to identify diagnoses and procedures. A multivariable regression model was used to compare the outcomes expressed as adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 5731 TAVR and 6491 SAVR were performed in patients with CD, respectively. The volume of TAVR increased by approximately four-folds and SAVR increased by approximately 33%. However, amongst patients with CD, the percentage of TAVR increased, whereas that of SAVR decreased (p < .001 for all). In 2016 and 2017, TAVR volume surpassed that of SAVR on CD. In-hospital mortality remained similar in TAVR (aOR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.79-1.07; p-trend = .23) whereas it increased significantly in SAVR (aOR: 1.14: 95% CI: 1.05-1.25, p-trend = .002). In 2017, in-hospital mortality and 30-day readmission were significantly higher in TAVR among CD than non-CD patients.

CONCLUSION

Despite increased use of TAVR among CD, there still is an opportunity for improvement in outcome of aortic valve replacement for those on CD.

Severe Aortic Stenosis and Chronic Kidney Disease: Outcomes and Impact of Aortic Valve Replacement

Background

The prognostic significance of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in severe aortic stenosis is poorly understood and no studies have yet evaluated the effect of aortic‐valve replacement (AVR) versus conservative management on long‐term mortality by stage of CKD.

Methods and Results

We included 4119 patients with severe aortic stenosis. The population was divided into 4 groups according to the baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate: no CKD, mild CKD, moderate CKD, and severe CKD. The 5‐year survival rate was 71±1% for patients without CKD, 62±2% for those with mild CKD, 54±3% for those with moderate CKD, and 34±4% for those with severe CKD (P<0.001). By multivariable analysis, patients with moderate or severe CKD had a significantly higher risk of all‐cause (hazard ratio [HR] [95% CI]=1.36 [1.08–1.71]; P=0.009 and HR [95% CI]=2.16 [1.67–2.79]; P<0.001, respectively) and cardiovascular mortality (HR [95% CI]=1.39 [1.03–1.88]; P=0.031 and HR [95% CI]=1.69 [1.18–2.41]; P=0.004, respectively) than patients without CKD. Despite more symptoms, AVR was less frequent in moderate (P=0.002) and severe CKD (P<0.001). AVR was associated with a marked reduction in all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality versus conservative management for each CKD group (all P<0.001). The joint‐test showed no interaction between AVR and CKD stages (P=0.676) indicating a nondifferentialeffect of AVR across stages of CKD. After propensity matching, AVR was still associated with substantially better survival for each CKD stage relative to conservative management (all P<0.0017).

Conclusions

In severe aortic stenosis, moderate and severe CKD are associated with increased mortality and decreased referral to AVR. AVR markedly reduces all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, regardless of the CKD stage. Therefore, CKD should not discourage physicians from considering AVR.

Aortic Stenosis Patients With Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Caution Recommended With Renal Failure During Hospitalization

Objective Our study aimed to assess the risk of in-patient mortality due to renal failure and other comorbidities in aortic stenosis (AS) patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using a Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS, January 2010 to December 2014) from the United States and included 33,325 patients with a primary diagnosis of AS. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the odds ratio (OR) for in-hospital mortality in AS by comorbidities including renal failure. Results The prevalence of renal failure in AS patients is 29.2%, and a higher proportion were males (60.1%) and non-white (14.1%). Major loss of function (96.6%) and in-hospital mortality (5.1%) were also proportionally higher in prevalence. Female patients (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.20-1.51) had higher odds of in-patient mortality in AS patients. Race was a non-significant predictor for mortality risk. Patients with comorbid coagulopathy (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.79-2.27) and heart failure (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.39-1.89) have increased mortality in AS inpatients. After controlling confounders, renal failure was significantly associated with increased in-hospital mortality (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.28-1.61) in AS patients. Conclusion Renal failure was prevalent in AS patients and was an independent factor that increases the risk of in-hospital mortality by 43%. Due to worse outcomes, more studies are required to evaluate risk-benefit ratio and strategies to improve health-related quality of life in post-TAVR patients with renal failure, and optimally decrease inpatient mortality.

Prognostic Implications of Renal Dysfunction in Patients With Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis (AS) and renal dysfunction share risk factors and often occur simultaneously. The influence of renal dysfunction on the prognosis of patients with various grades of AS has not been extensively described. The present study aimed to assess the prognostic implications of renal dysfunction in a large cohort of patients with aortic sclerosis and patients with various grades of AS. Patients diagnosed with various grades of AS by transthoracic echocardiography were assessed and divided according to renal function by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The occurrence of all-cause mortality (primary end point) and aortic valve replacement (AVR) was noted. Of 1,178 patients (mean age 70 ± 13 years, 60% male), 327 (28%) had aortic sclerosis, 86 (7%) had mild AS, 285 (24%) had moderate AS, and 480 (41%) had severe AS. Renal dysfunction (eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m²) was present in 440 (37%) patients, and moderate to severe AS was observed more often in these patients compared to patients without (70 vs 62%, respectively; p = 0.008). After a median follow-up of 95 [31 to 149] months, 626 (53%) patients underwent AVR and 549 (47%) patients died. Severely impaired renal function (eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m²) and AVR were independently associated with all-cause mortality after correcting for AS severity. In conclusion, renal dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with various grades of AS. After correcting for AS severity and AVR, severely impaired renal function (eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m²) was independently associated with all-cause mortality. Independent of renal function, AVR was associated with improved survival.

[Valvular heart disease in patients with chronic kidney disease]

Valvular heart disease is a common comorbidity in patients with impaired renal function, especially in those with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis. Sclerosis and calcification of the heart valves and the valve ring are particularly relevant in the etiology of the diseases. These typically occur at the aortic and mitral valves and can lead to both insufficiency and stenosis of the affected valve. In the current guidelines of the European Society for Cardiology published in 2017, surgical treatment remains the standard of care for most forms of severe valvular heart disease; however, the presence of chronic kidney disease impairs clinical outcomes and is associated with higher mortality rates when compared to patients with preserved renal function. Catheter-based treatment options have emerged as an effective and safe alternative for patients >75 years and/or with increased surgical risk. Consequently, in patients with appropriate anatomy and elevated risk, interventional treatment options should also be discussed in the heart team.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients With Aortic Stenosis and Chronic Kidney Disease

Background We sought to study longer term survival in patients with aortic stenosis ( AS ) and nondialysis chronic kidney disease ( CKD ). Methods and Results We studied 839 patients (aged 78±9 years and 51% male) with CKD and AS on echocardiogram from 2005 to 2012. Longer term all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was compared with a CKD group without AS , propensity matched for age, sex, race, left ventricular ejection fraction and CKD stage. Cox models were used to evaluate all-cause mortality and competing-risks regression models censored at time of aortic valve replacement to evaluate cardiac mortality in patients with AS and CKD . Overall, 511 (61%), 252 (30%), and 76 (9%) patients had CKD stages 3a, 3b, and 4, respectively; 93% had hypertension, 28% had diabetes mellitus, and 37% had coronary artery disease. In total, 185 (22%) had mild AS, 355 (42%) had moderate AS, and 299 (36%) had severe AS (66 symptomatic). Patients with CKD and AS had higher cardiac and all-cause mortality compared with controls with CKD and no AS ( P<0.001). Among patients with AS and CKD , there were 156 (19%) aortic valve replacements and 454 (54%) deaths (203 cardiac deaths) at 4.0±2.3 years of follow-up. Lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (hazard ratio per 10 mL/min per 1.73 m2: 1.18; 95% CI, 1.08-1.29) was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality but not cardiac mortality (hazard ratio: 1.12; 95% CI, 0.97-1.30; P=0.13). Of patients undergoing aortic valve replacement, 61% had improvement in estimated glomerular filtration rate within 1 year (median percentage change=+2.8% per month). Conclusions Among patients with nondialysis CKD , AS is associated with significantly higher cardiac and all-cause mortality; lower estimated glomerular filtration rate is associated with increased mortality, and aortic valve replacement was associated with improved survival.