Direct complications of repeat median sternotomy in adults

Right anterior mini thoracotomy for redo cardiac surgery: case series from North America and Europe

Background

Right anterior mini thoracotomy (RAMT) for aortic valve replacement (AVR) is a minimally invasive procedure that avoids sternotomy. Herein, we report the outcomes of patients who underwent redo-cardiac via a RAMT approach for AVR.

Methods

This case series reports the clinical outcomes of 14 consecutive redo operations, done in Calgary (Canada) and Gdansk (Poland) between 2020 and 2023. Primary outcomes were 30-day mortality and disabling stroke. Secondary outcomes included surgical times, hemodynamics, permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM), length of ICU and hospital stay, new post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF), post-operative blood transfusion, incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), rate of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and/or dialysis, and chest tube output in the first 12-hours after surgery.

Results

Nine patients were male, and the mean age was 64.36 years. There were no deaths, while one patient had a disabling stroke postoperatively. Mean cardiopulmonary bypass and cross clamp-times were 136 min and 90 min, respectively. Three patients needed a PPM, 3 patients needed blood transfusions, and 2 developed new onset POAF. Median lengths of ICU and hospital stays were 2 and 12 days, respectively. There was no incidence of paravalvular leak greater than trace and the average transvalvular mean gradient was 12.23 mmHg.

Conclusion

The number of patients requiring redo-AVR is increasing. Redo-sternotomy may not be feasible for many patients. This study suggests that the RAMT approach is a safe alternative to redo-sternotomy for patients that require an AVR.

Catheter-based Interventions in Tetralogy of Fallot Across the Lifespan

Surgical treatment of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) involves surgical relief of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction and closure of ventricular septal defect. However, some patients may require staged palliation before surgical repair. This traditionally was achieved only with surgery but recently evolved to include catheter-based techniques. RVOT dysfunction occurs inevitably after the surgical repair of TOF and, depending on the surgical approach, manifests as either progressive stenosis, regurgitation, or a combination of both. This predisposes the individual to repeated RVOT interventions with the attendant risks of multiple open-heart surgeries. The advent of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement has reduced the operative burden, and the expansion of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement device platforms has widened the type and size of RVOT anatomies that can be treated. This review will discuss the transcatheter therapies available throughout the lifespan of the patient with TOF.

Minimally Invasive Strategy to Repair Mitral Valve after Repeated Coronary Revascularization: A Case Report and Literature Review

Redo cardiac surgery after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) is burdened by high morbidity and mortality, either intraoperatively and postoperatively, with the repeated sternotomy playing a crucial role as risk factor. The right minithoracotomy approach guarantees a safer control on conduits integrity and the right ventricular wall and a low impact on the respiratory mechanics. Herein, we report a patient who previously underwent two CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) procedures and who was admitted to the hospital with a picture of heart failure caused by a severe mitral regurgitation. He was successfully submitted to a mitral valve repair on a beating heart via the right minithoracotomy approach.

Minimally Invasive Procedure versus Conventional Redo Sternotomy for Mitral Valve Surgery in Patients with Previous Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

The heightened morbidity and mortality associated with repeat cardiac surgery are well documented. Redo median sternotomy (MS) and minimally invasive valve surgery are options for patients with prior cardiac surgery who require mitral valve surgery (MVS). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the outcomes of redo MS and minimally invasive MVS (MIMVS) in this population.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus for studies comparing outcomes of redo MS and MIMVS for MVS. To calculate risk ratios (RRs) for binary outcomes and weighted mean differences (MDs) for continuous data, we employed a random-effects model.

Results

We included 12 retrospective observational studies, comprising 4157 participants (675 for MIMVS; 3482 for redo MS). Reductions in mortality (RR, 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37-0.80), length of hospital stay (MD, -4.23; 95% CI, -5.77 to -2.68), length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay (MD, -2.02; 95% CI, -3.17 to -0.88), and new-onset acute kidney injury (AKI) risk (odds ratio, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.61) were statistically significant and favored MIMVS (p<0.05). No significant differences were observed in aortic cross-clamp time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, or risk of perioperative stroke, new-onset atrial fibrillation, surgical site infection, or reoperation for bleeding (p>0.05).

Conclusion

The current literature, which primarily consists of retrospective comparisons, underscores certain benefits of MIMVS over redo MS. These include decreased mortality, shorter hospital and ICU stays, and reduced AKI risk. Given the lack of high-quality evidence, prospective randomized control trials with adequate power are necessary to investigate long-term outcomes.

Congenital heart disease: addressing the need for novel lower-risk percutaneous interventional strategies

INTRODUCTION

With the advent of improved neonatal care, increasingly vulnerable higher-risk patients with complex congenital heart anomalies are presenting for intervention. This group of patients will always have a higher risk of an adverse event during a procedure but by recognising this risk and with the introduction risk scoring systems and thus the development of novel lower risk procedures, the rate of adverse events can be reduced.

AREA COVERED

This article reviews risk scoring systems for congenital catheterization and demonstrates how they can be used to reduce the rate of adverse events. Then novel low risk strategies are discussed for low weight infants e.g. patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stent insertion; premature infants e.g. PDA device closure; and transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement. Finally, how risk is assessed and managed within the inherent bias of an institution is discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

There has been a remarkable improvement in the rate of adverse events in congenital cardiac interventions but now, as the benchmark of mortality rate is switched to morbidity and quality of life, continued innovation into lower risk strategies and understanding inherent bias when assessing risk will be key to continuing this improvement.

Cardiovascular Outcomes of Redo-coronary Artery Bypass Graft Versus Percutaneous Coronary Intervention of Index Bypass Grafts Among Acute Coronary Syndrome: Regression Matched National Cohort Study

Procedural and hospital outcomes of Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) among ACS patients with prior history of CABG remains understudied. PCI and CABG formed the 2 comparison cohorts. Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2015 to 2020 were analyzed using the ICD-10 coding system. Demographic characteristics, baseline comorbidities, and outcomes such as inpatient mortality, cardiogenic shock, mechanical circulatory support, length of stay (LOS), and cost of hospitalization were compared between the two cohorts. A total of 503,900 ACS hospitalizations with prior history of CABG were identified who underwent PCI and CABG (141650 vs 7715, respectively). Median age was 71 vs 67, with male predominance (74.6% vs 75.4%), Caucasian had the most hospitalizations (79.3% vs 75.1%) in the PCI group compared to patients who underwent CABG. A higher burden of smoking (57.1% vs 52.6%, P < 0.0001) was noted in the CABG group. On adjusted analysis, ACS patients undergoing Redo- CABG had a higher risk of in-hospital mortality (aOR 1.69, CI 1.53-1.87, P < 0.0001) compared to those undergoing PCI. In addition, Redo-CABG group were more likely to have CS (aOR 1.37, CI 1.26-1.48, P < 0.0001), MCS devices use (aOR 2.61, CI 2.43-2.80, P < 0.0001), AKI (aOR 1.42, CI 1.34-1.50, P < 0.0001) and respiratory failure (aOR 1.39, CI 1.29-1.47, P < 0.0001) as compared to PCI group. CABG in acute myocardial infarction with prior history of CABG is associated with higher cardiovascular complications compared to PCI. Further exploration and individual-patient level risk assessment is crucial.

Sternotomy Approach to the Anterior Cervicothoracic Spine

The anterior cervicothoracic spine is a challenging region to approach given the various vascular, osseous, nervous, and articular structures, which prevent adequate exposure. This region is susceptible to lesions ranging from tumors, degenerative disease, infectious processes, and traumatic fractures. Our objective was to critically evaluate the sternotomy approach in spine surgery to give the technical implications of its usage. The safety and efficacy of the transsternal approach are discussed as well as the advantages, disadvantages, indications, and contraindications. The transsternal approach is the most direct access to pathologies in the upper anterior cervicothoracic spine and enables the spine surgeon to gain direct exposure to the cervicothoracic junction for ideal visualization. Anatomical considerations must be kept in mind while performing a sternotomy to prevent complications such as denervation or bleeding. This technique is useful for the armamentarium of spinal surgeons.

Renal Cell Carcinoma With Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus in Two Patients With Previous Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Strategy for Surgical Removal

Surgical management of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with tumor thrombus (TT) extending into the inferior vena cava (IVC) and up to the hepatic veins and right atrium (RA) continues to be problematic and a challenging surgical operation. It becomes even more complicated when performing a re-sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in patients with previous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Here, we report on two patients with previous CABG who presented with RCC and TT extending into the hepatic vein and above the diaphragm. These two patients underwent successful surgical resection and TT thrombectomy without the need of CBP. Recommendations are made for successfully accomplishing such surgical resections, including adequate prior preparation for the possible need to perform re-sternotomy and CPB with a coordinated team effort.

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Strategies Following Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Explantation or Decommissioning: A Scoping Review of the Literature

Mechanical circulatory support using left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) has transformed management of patients with end-stage heart failure with more patients on LVAD therapy surviving long enough to necessitate either device explantation or decommissioning. Usually, there is foreign material retained following these procedures that requires maintaining antiplatelet and/or anticoagulant therapy. However, there is no consensus on optimal management of antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy following LVAD explantation or decommissioning. We conducted a scoping review of antiplatelet and anticoagulation strategies, searching EMBASE, PubMed and CENTRAL. A total of 15 case reports and series encompassing 38 patient cases were found that met inclusion criteria. There was a heterogeneity of LVAD types and techniques used for explantation and decommissioning. Most reports identified in our review maintained patients on a vitamin K antagonist for at least 3 months post-explantation or decommissioning with or without concomitant antiplatelet therapy with low-dose aspirin. However, there was no single agreed-upon optimal strategy for antiplatelet and anticoagulant use post-procedure. Factors such as the degree of foreign material retained following device explantation or decommissioning and whether there is another indication for anticoagulation or antiplatelet use must be considered. A lack of overall consensus indicates that more studies are needed in this area to establish definitive guidelines around antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy following LVAD explantation or decommissioning.

OUP accepted manuscript

 

OBJECTIVES

Right mini-thoracotomy approach may enhance the visualization of mitral valve (MV) visualization during redo MV surgery, thereby minimizing the risk of reoperative median sternotomy. We described the clinical outcomes of redo MV surgery by mini-thoracotomy and full-sternotomy approach.

METHODS

Of 730 consecutive adult patients who underwent redo MV surgery between 2002 and 2018 at our institution, we identified 380 patients (age: 56.0 [14.8] years) after excluding those who underwent concomitant aortic valve or coronary artery surgeries.

RESULTS

The clinical outcomes in patients who underwent mini-thoracotomy (MINI group; n = 168) and full-sternotomy (STERN group; n = 218) were described. The early and overall mortality in the MINI group was 4.3% (7/162) and 17.3% (28/162), with the rates of early major complications as follows: low cardiac output syndrome, 5.6% (9/162); early stroke, 6.8% (11/162); new-onset dialysis, 6.2% (10/162); prolonged ventilation, 15.4% (25/162); and postoperative bleeding requiring exploration, 7.4% (12/162). In the STERN group, the early mortality was 11.0% (24/218), whereas the risk of low cardiac output syndrome, early stroke, new-onset dialysis, prolonged ventilation, and postoperative bleeding was 12.4% (27/218), 14.2% (31/218), 17.0% (37/218), 33.0% (72/218), and 10.1% (22/218), respectively. The duration of intensive care unit and hospital stay was 2.0 [range 1.0, 3.0] and 8.0 [6.0, 13.0], respectively, in the MINI group and 3.0 [2.0, 7.0] and 14.0 [8.0, 29.0], respectively, in the STERN group.

CONCLUSIONS

Mini-thoracotomy may be a viable alternative to conventional sternotomy for redo MV surgery.

Preoperative Arterial and Venous Cannulation in Redo Cardiac Surgery: From the Safety and Cost-effectiveness Points of View

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety and cost-effectiveness of preoperative cannulation and conventional approach techniques.

METHODS

Sixty-one patients who underwent redo open cardiac procedures between September 2015 and November 2018 were divided into two groups - Group A (n: 30), patients who underwent conventional cannulation after sternotomy, and Group B (n: 31), those who underwent cannulation before sternotomy. Patients were evaluated retrospectively for general complication rates and total hospital costs.

RESULTS

Mortality occurred in four patients from Group A and in one patient from Group B. Four patients required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in Group A, whereas two required ECMO in Group B. Duration of total operation, cardiopulmonary bypass, and cross-clamp times were longer in the conventional surgery group than in the pre-sternotomy cannulation group (420.29±188.84 vs. 314.77±187.38, P=0.036; 171.87±85.59 vs. 141.7±82.47, P=0.089; and 102.94±70.67 vs. 60.97±52.81, P=0.009; respectively). Total blood and blood product usage were higher in Group A than in Group B. Postoperative intensive care unit stay was 62.77±145.3 hours vs. 25.13±73.11 hours, ventilation time was 5.16±5.09 hours vs. 3.03±2.78 hours, duration of ward stay was 5.23±2.52 days vs. 5.57±2.16 days, and duration of hospital stay was 9.58±5.85 days vs. 9.8±5.31 days in conventional sternotomy and pre-sternotomy cannulation groups, respectively. Total hospital costs were calculated 35863.52±20803.99 Turkish Liras (TL) in Group A and 25744.74±16472.03 TL in Group B (P=0,042).

CONCLUSION

Venous and arterial cannulations before sternotomy decreased myocardial injury and complication rates, blood and blood product usage, hospital stay, and, consequently, hospital costs in our modest cohort.

Outcomes of Reoperative Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in the United States

Background

There is a paucity of data on the trends and outcomes of reoperative coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery during the current decade in the United States.

Methods and Results

We queried the National Inpatient Sample database (2002–2016) for all hospitalizations with isolated CABG procedure. We reported the temporal trends and outcomes of reoperative CABG versus primary CABG procedures. The main outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Among 3 212 768 hospitalizations with CABG, 46 820 (1.5%) had reoperative CABG. Over the 15‐year study period, there were no changes in the proportion of reoperative CABG (1.8% in 2002 versus 2.2% in 2016, P_tren=0.08), and the related in‐hospital mortality (3.7% in 2002 versus 2.7% in 2016, P_trend=0.97). Reoperative CABG was performed in patients with increasingly higher risk profile. Compared with primary CABG, hospitalizations for reoperative CABG were associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (3.2% versus 1.9%, P<0.001), cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, vascular complications, and respiratory complications. Among hospitalizations for reoperative CABG, the predictors of higher mortality included history of heart failure and chronic kidney disease.

Conclusions

In this 15‐year nationwide analysis, reoperative CABG procedures were increasingly performed in patients with higher risk profile. In‐hospital mortality rates were relatively low and did not change during the examined period. Compared with primary CABG, reoperative CABG is associated with higher in‐hospital mortality.

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement in pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction is common among individuals with congenital heart disease (CHD). Surgical intervention often carries prohibitive risks due to the need for sequential pulmonary valve (PV) replacements throughout their life in the majority of cases. Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (tPVR) is one of the most exciting recent developments in the treatment of CHD and has evolved to become an attractive alternative to surgery in patients with RVOT dysfunction.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we examine the pathophysiology of RVOT dysfunction, indications for tPVR, and the procedural aspect. Advancements in clinical application and valve technology will also be covered.

EXPERT OPINION

tPVR is widely accepted as an alternative to surgery to address RVOT dysfunction, but still significant numbers of patients with complex RVOT morphology deemed not suitable for tPVR. As the technology continues to evolve, new percutaneous valves will allow such complex RVOT patient to benefit from tPVR.

MDCT prior to median re-sternotomy in cardiovascular surgery: our experiences, infrequent findings and the crucial role of radiological report

Resternotomy (RS) is a common occurrence in cardiac surgical practice. It is associated with an increased risk of injury to old conduits, cardiac structures, catastrophic hemorrhage and subsequent high morbidity and mortality rate in the operating room or during the recovery period. To mitigate this risk, we evaluated the role of multidetector CT (MDCT) in planning repeat cardiac surgery. We evaluated sternal compartment abnormalities, sternal/ascending aorta distance, pre-reoperative assessment of the aorta (wall, diameters, lumen, valve), sternal/right ventricle distance, diaphragm insertion, pericardium and cardiac chambers, sternal/innominate vein distance, connection of the grafts to the predicted median sternotomy cut, graft patency and anatomic course, possible aortic cannulation and cross-clamping sites and additional non-cardiovascular significant findings. Based on the MDCT findings, surgeons employed tailored operative strategies, including no-touch technique, clamping strategy and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) via peripheral cannulation assisted resternotomy. Our experience suggests that MDCT provides information which contributes to the safety of re-operative heart surgery reducing operative mortality and adverse outcomes. The radiologist must be aware of potential surgical options, including in the report any findings relevant to possible resternotomy complications.

Percutaneous treatment of a massive saphenous vein graft aneurysm

Saphenous vein graft (SVG) aneurysms are a rare, frequently late presenting, potentially fatal complication of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. They are often discovered incidentally during radiological tasks such as chest x-ray or CT but can present clinically with symptoms such as worsening angina and breathlessness as well as complications such as rupture or myocardial infarction. Given the risks if left untreated, consideration should be given to treatment either through percutaneous routes or open surgery. However, because of a lack of strong evidence, there are no definitive guidelines on the treatment of SVG aneurysms. We describe a patient with an extensive cardiac surgical history who presented with angina and breathlessness and was found to have a large SVG aneurysm, subsequently successfully treated with percutaneous coronary intervention with covered stents.

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation as an alternative to repeat open-heart surgery for patients with pulmonary outflow obstruction: a reality in Singapore

Right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduits have been used for the surgical repair of congenital heart defects. These conduits frequently become stenosed or develop insufficiency with time, necessitating reoperations. Percutanous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) can delay the need for repeated surgeries in patients with congenital heart defects and degenerated RV-PA conduits. We presented our first experience with PPVI and described in detail the procedural methods and the considerations that are needed for this intervention to be successful. Immediate and short-term clinical outcomes of our patients were reported. Good haemodynamic results were obtained, both angiographically and on echocardiography. PPVI provides an excellent alternative to repeat open-heart surgery for patients with congenital heart defects and degenerated RV-PA conduits. This represents a paradigm shift in the management of congenital heart disease, which is traditionally managed by open-heart surgery.

Propensity matched comparison of in-hospital outcomes of TAVR vs. SAVR in patients with previous history of CABG: Insights from the Nationwide inpatient sample

BACKGROUND

The incidence of patients with previous history of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) presenting for aortic valvular replacement has been consistently on the rise. Repeat sternotomy for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) carries an inherent risk of morbidity and mortality when compared to Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

The Nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) from 2012 to 2014 was queried using the International Classification of Diseases-Ninth edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes to identify all patients ≥ 18 years with prior CABG who underwent TAVR (35.05 and 35.06) or SAVR (35.21 and 35.22). Propensity score matching (1:1) was performed and in-hospital outcomes were compared between matched cohorts.

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2014, there was progressive increase in the annual number of TAVR procedures from 1485 to 4020, with a decrease in patients undergoing SAVR from 2330 to 1955 (P_trend  < 0.0001) in the above population. There was no significant difference in in-hospital mortality rates. Compared to SAVR, TAVR was associated with lower risk of stroke (1.2% vs. 3.3%, P = 0.009), AKI (12.9% vs. 21.3%, P < 0.0001), myocardial infarction (0.9% vs. 2.7%, P = 0.01) and major bleeding (9.1% vs. 25.1%, P < 0.0001). TAVR was associated with higher risk of pacemaker implants (9.6% vs. 4.9%, P = 0.001) and trend toward lower risk of vascular complications (2.3% vs. 4.1%, P = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this large cohort of patients with previous CABG, there is no significant difference in in-hospital mortality between TAVR and SAVR. TAVR was associated with lower risk of in-hospital outcomes.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement: Current State of Art

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The past couple of decades have brought tremendous advances to the field of pediatric and adult congenital heart disease (CHD). Percutaneous valve interventions are now a cornerstone of not just the congenital cardiologist treating patients with congenital heart disease, but also-and numerically more importantly-for adult interventional cardiologists treating patients with acquired heart valve disease. Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (tPVR) is one of the most exciting recent developments in the treatment of CHD and has evolved to become an attractive alternative to surgery in patients with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction. This review aims to summarize (1) the current state of the art for tPVR, (2) the expanding indications, and (3) the technological obstacles to optimizing tPVR.

RECENT FINDINGS

Since its introduction in 2000, more than ten thousands tPVR procedures have been performed worldwide. Although the indications for tPVR have been adapted earlier from those accepted for surgical intervention, they remain incompletely defined. The new imaging modalities give better assessment of cardiac anatomy and function and determine candidacy for the procedure. The procedure has been shown to be feasible and safe when performed in patients who received pulmonary conduit and or bioprosthetic valves between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. Fewer selected patients post trans-annular patch repair for tetralogy of Fallot may also be candidates for this technology. Size restrictions of the currently available valves limit deployment in the majority of patients post trans-annular patch repair. Newer valves and techniques are being developed that may help such patients. Refinements and further developments of this procedure hold promise for the extension of this technology to other patient populations.

Higher-risk mitral valve operations after previous sternotomy: endoscopic, minimally invasive approach improves patient outcomes

BACKGROUND

Reoperative mitral valve (MV) surgery is associated with significant morbidity and mortality; however, endoscopic minimally invasive surgical techniques may preserve the surgical benefits of conventional mitral operations while potentially reducing perioperative risk and length of stay (LOS) in hospital.

METHODS

We compared the outcomes of consecutive patients who underwent reoperative MV surgery between 2000 and 2014 using a minimally invasive endoscopic approach (MINI) with those of patients who underwent a conventional sternotomy (STERN). The primary outcome was in-hospital/30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included blood product transfusion, LOS in hospital and in the intensive care unit (ICU), and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

We included 132 patients in our study: 40 (mean age 68 ± 14 yr, 70% men) underwent MINI and 92 (62 ± 13 yr, 40% men) underwent STERN. The MINI group had significantly more comorbidities than the STERN group. While there were no significant differences in complications, all point estimates suggested lower mortality and morbidity in the MINI than the STERN group (in-hospital/ 30-day mortality 5% v. 11%, p = 0.35; composite any of 10 complications 28% v. 41%, p = 0.13). Individual complication rates were similar between the MINI and STERN groups, except for intra-aortic balloon pump requirement (IABP; 0% v. 12%, p = 0.034). MINI significantly reduced the need for any blood transfusion (68% v. 84%, p = 0.036) or packed red blood cells (63% v. 79%, p = 0.042), fresh frozen plasma (35% v. 59%, p = 0.012) and platelets (20% v. 40%, p = 0.024). It also significantly reduced median hospital LOS (8 v. 12 d, p = 0.014). An exploratory propensity score analysis similarly demonstrated a significantly reduced need for IABP (p < 0.001) and a shorter mean LOS in the ICU (p = 0.046) and in hospital (p = 0.047) in the MINI group.

CONCLUSION

A MINI approach for reoperative MV surgery reduces blood product utilization and hospital LOS. Possible clinically relevant differences in perioperative complications require assessment in randomized clinical trials.

Percutaneous valve implantation in "tricuspid" position after a Fontan-Björk operation

BACKGROUND

A 30-year-old female with tricuspid valve atresia, ventricular septal defect, and atrial septal defect had a neonatal modified Blalock Taussig shunt and a Fontan-Björk operation performed at five years of age. She did well initially but progressively developed signs of systemic congestion due to severe homograft stenosis and underwent successful percutaneous implantation of a Melody^® pulmonary valve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) in the "tricuspid" position.

Postoperative acute kidney injury defined by RIFLE criteria predicts early health outcome and long-term survival in patients undergoing redo coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Objective

To investigate the impact of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) on early health outcome and on long-term survival in patients undergoing redo coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Methods

We performed a Cox analysis with 398 consecutive patients undergoing redo CABG over a median follow-up of 7 years (interquartile range, 4-12.2 years). Renal function was assessed using baseline and peak postoperative levels of serum creatinine. AKI was defined according to the risk, injury, failure, loss, and end-stage (RIFLE) criteria. Health outcome measures included the rate of in-hospital AKI and all-cause 30-day and long-term mortality, using data from the United Kingdom's Office of National Statistics. Propensity score matching, as well as logistic regression analyses, were used. The impact of postoperative AKI at different time points was related to survival.

Results

In patients with redo CABG, the occurrence of postoperative AKI was associated with in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.3 to 10.5; P < .01], high Euroscore (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.07-1.52; P < .01), use of IABP (OR, 6.9; 95% CI, 2.24-20.3; P < .01), and reduced long-term survival (hazard ratio [HR], 2.42; 95% CI, 1.63-3.6; P = .01). Overall survival at 5 and 10 years was lower in AKI patients with AKI compared with those without AKI (64% vs 85% at 5 years; 51% vs 68% at 10 years). On 1:1 propensity score matching analysis, postoperative AKI was independently associated with reduced long term survival (HR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.15-6.7).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing redo CABG, the occurrence of postoperative AKI is associated with increased 30-day mortality and major complications and with reduced long-term survival.

Impact of Right-Sided-Catheter-Based Valve Implantation on Decision-Making in Congenital Heart Disease

There is a growing appreciation for the adverse long-term impact of right-sided valvular dysfunction in patients with congenital heart disease. Although right-sided valvular stenosis and/or regurgitation is often better tolerated than left-sided valvular dysfunction in the short and intermediate term, the long-term consequences are numerous and include, but are not limited to, arrhythmias, heart failure, and multi-organ dysfunction. Surgical right-sided valve interventions have been performed for many decades, but the comorbidities associated with multiple surgeries are a concern. Transcatheter right-sided valve replacement is safe and effective and is being performed at an increasing number of centers around the world. It offers an alternative to traditional surgical techniques and may potentially alter the decision making process whereby valvular replacement is performed prior to the development of long-term sequelae of right-sided valvular dysfunction.

Radiologic evaluation of coronary artery disease in adults with congenital heart disease

Improved surgical and medical therapy have prolonged survival in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) such that general medical conditions like coronary artery disease (CAD) are now the main determinants of mortality. A summary of the association of CAD with CHD, as well as a discussion of the radiologic evaluation of the coronary arteries in adults with CHD is described herein. Cross sectional imaging to evaluate CAD in adults with CHD should follow the same appropriateness criteria as gender and aged matched patients without CHD. Coronary CT imaging may be particularly valuable in evaluating the coronary arteries in this patient population as invasive coronary angiography may prove challenging secondary to complicated or unconventional anatomy of the coronary arteries. Further, typical methods for evaluating CAD such as stress or echocardiography may be impractical in adults with CHD. Finally, delineating the anatomic relationship of the coronary arteries and their relationship with the sternum, chest wall, conduits, grafts, and valves is highly recommended in patients with CHD prior to reintervention to avoid iatrogenic complications.

Successful treatment of acute left ventricular assist device thrombosis and cardiogenic shock with intraventricular thrombolysis and a tandem heart

Management for continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) thrombosis often relies on speculation of individual clinical risk factors and integration of indirect evidence for device dysfunction. There are no comprehensive guidelines for treatment of this serious complication, and most of our current knowledge comes from anecdotal experience or observational study. More data on effective treatment, both with aggressive pharmacologic and device-based interventions, are needed for improving our understanding of mechanisms driving device thrombosis and for preventing future events. We present a case of LVAD thrombosis with emphasis on recognition and treatment of acute pump thrombosis, and discuss a potentially novel strategy using percutaneous mechanical circulatory support for pump salvage.

Surgical results of third or more cardiac valve operation

Background

We evaluated operative outcomes after third or more cardiac operations for valvular heart disease, and analyzed whether pericardial coverage with artificial membrane is helpful for subsequent reoperation.

Methods

From 2000 to 2012, 149 patients (male: female=70: 79; mean age at operation, 57.0±11.3 years) underwent their third to fifth operations for valvular heart disease. Early results were compared between patients who underwent their third operation (n=114) and those who underwent fourth or fifth operation (n=35). Outcomes were also compared between 71 patients who had their pericardium open during the previous operation and 27 patients who had artificial membrane coverage.

Results

Intraoperative adverse events occurred in 22 patients (14.8%). Right atrium (n=6) and innominate vein (n=5) were most frequently injured. In-hospital mortality rate was 9.4%. Total cardiopulmonary bypass time (225±77 minutes vs. 287±134 minutes, p=0.012) and the time required to prepare aortic cross clamp (209±57 minutes vs. 259±68 minutes, p<0.001) increased as reoperations were repeated. However, intraoperative event rate (13.2% vs. 20.0%), in-hospital mortality (9.6% vs. 8.6%) and postoperative complications were not statistically different according to the number of previous operations. Pericardial closure using artificial membrane at previous operation was not beneficial in reducing intraoperative events (25.9% vs. 18.3%) and shortening operation time preparing aortic cross clamp (248±64 minutes vs. 225±59 minutes) as compared to no-closure.

Conclusion

Clinical outcomes of the third or more operations for valvular heart disease were acceptable in terms of intraoperative adverse events and in-hospital mortality rates. There were no differences in the incidence of intraoperative adverse events, early mortality and postoperative complications between third cardiac operation and fourth or more.

A review of the current status of pericardial closure following cardiac surgery

Some cardiac surgeons prefer to close the pericardium whenever possible following surgery, others specifically avoid this practice, and still others believe that neither alternative has any meaningful influence on clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, scientific evidence supporting either approach is scarce, making a consensus regarding best practice impossible. In this article, the known functions of the native intact pericardium are summarized, and the arguments for and against pericardial closure after surgery are examined. In addition, the techniques and materials that have been utilized for pericardial closure previously, as well as those that are currently being developed, are assessed.

Is resternotomy a risk for continuous-flow left ventricular assist device outcomes?

BACKGROUND

The number of patients undergoing resternotomy continues to rise. Although catastrophic hemorrhage remains a dreaded complication, most published data suggest that sternal reentrance is safe, with negligible postoperative morbidity and mortality. A significant proportion of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantations are reoperative cardiac procedures. The aim of our study was to compare outcomes between first time sternotomy and resternotomy patients receiving continuous-flow LVADs, as a bridge to transplantation or destination therapy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

From March 2006 through February 2012, 100 patients underwent implantation of a HeartMate II or HeartWare LVAD at our institution. Patients were stratified into two groups, primary sternotomy and resternotomy. Variables were compared using two-sided t-tests, chi-square tests, Cox proportional hazards models, and log-rank tests to determine whether there was a difference between the two groups and if resternotomy was a significant independent predictor of outcome.

RESULTS

We identified 29 patients (29%) who had resternotomy and 71 patients (71%) who had first time sternotomy. The resternotomy group was significantly older (56 years vs. 51 years, p = 0.05), was more likely to have ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) (69% vs. 30%, p < 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (31% vs. 14%, p = 0.05) and had longer cardiopulmonary bypass times (135 min vs. 100 min, p = 0.011). Survival rates at 30 days (93.1% vs. 95.8%, p = 0.564), 180 days (82.8% vs. 93%, p = 0.131), and 360 days (82.8% vs. 88.7%, p = 0.398) were similar for the resternotomy and primary sternotomy groups, respectively. Postoperative complications were also comparable, except for re-exploration for bleeding which was higher for the resternotomy group (17.2% vs. 4.2%, p = 0.029), although blood transfusion requirements were not significantly different (1.4 units vs. 1.2 units, p = 0.815). Left and right heart catheterization measurements and echocardiographic (ECHO) findings after 1 and 6 months of LVAD therapy were similar between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival at 30, 180, and 360 days after LVAD implantation is similar between the resternotomy and primary sternotomy group. No major differences in complications or hemodynamic measurements were observed. Although a limited observational study, our findings agree with previously published resternotomy outcomes.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation after previous mechanical mitral valve replacement: expanding indications?

BACKGROUND

Cardiac operation for severe aortic stenosis after previous mitral valve replacement is a surgical challenge in older patients with multiple morbidities. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) after previous mechanical mitral valve replacement has been considered a high-risk procedure, owing to possible interference with the mitral valve prosthesis.

METHODS

Since August 2008, 5 female high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis and previous mitral valve replacement (mean ± SD age, 80 ± 5.1 years; logistic EuroSCORE, 39.3% ± 20.5%) underwent TAVI with a pericardial xenograft valve that was fixed with a stainless steel, balloon-expandable stent (Edwards Lifesciences SAPIEN). We used a transapical approach in 4 patients and a transfemoral approach in 1 patient. Transesophageal echocardiography and multidetector computed tomography were used for preoperative planning and assessment of operation feasibility. The mean distance between the aortic annulus and the mitral valve prosthesis was 10 ± 1 mm (range, 9-11 mm).

RESULTS

TAVI was performed successfully in all 5 patients. There was no direct or functional interference with the mechanical mitral valve prostheses. Echocardiography revealed good valve function with no more than mild paravalvular incompetence early in the postoperative period and during routine follow-up. There were no neurologic events. After an initially uneventful course with good aortic valve function at the most recent echocardiography evaluation, however, 2 of the patients died from fulminant pneumonia on postoperative days 4 and 48.

CONCLUSION

TAVI is technically feasible in high-risk patients after previous mechanical mitral valve replacement; however, careful patient selection is mandatory with respect to preoperative clinical status and anatomic dimensions regarding the distance between aortic annulus and mitral valve prosthesis.

Is resternotomy in cardiac surgery still a problem?

Multiple factors contribute to the growing number of reoperations for congenital and acquired cardiovascular diseases in the United States. Although the hazards are well-recognized, the health economic burden of resternotomy (RS) remains unclear and may be difficult to quantify. Contrary to published studies citing low frequencies of catastrophic hemorrhage and mortality, survey responses from practicing surgeons disclose higher rates of complications. Safety strategies in cardiac reoperation have generally involved efforts to maximize visualization during dissection, specialized surgical maneuvers and instrumentation, customized methods for establishing extracorporeal circulation, and techniques to prevent or avoid retrosternal adhesions. Yet, the relative cost-effectiveness of these strategies is largely unexplored. With the ongoing constraints in healthcare budgets, differentiating the value of existing and future approaches in terms of relative clinical benefits, costs, and impact on resource utilization will become increasingly important. We reviewed the relevant published literature in order to survey the morbidity and resource utilization associated with RS in cardiac reoperation and to identify key issues relevant for future studies.

Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery after previous sternotomy: experience in 181 patients

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the results for minimally invasive mitral valve (MV) surgery in patients who had undergone previous cardiac operations through a sternotomy.

METHODS

From March 1, 1999 to January 2008, minimally invasive MV reoperations were performed in 181 consecutive patients (110 men) with a mean age of 64.5 +/- 12 years. A right-sided lateral minithoracotomy with femoral cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was used. The principal indication was symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation (mean grade, 3.0 +/- 0.8). Previous procedures were isolated coronary bypass grafting (CABG) in 76 (42%), isolated valve operation, 55 (30%); combined CABG and valve, 16 (9%); and other cardiac operations, 34 (19%). MV replacement was previously performed in 19 patients and MV repair in 31. Mean preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction was 0.54 +/- 0.16.

RESULTS

MV repair, including repeat repair, was performed in 109 patients (60%) and MV replacement in 72 (40%). Operations were performed during ventricular fibrillation in 140 (77%), and a transthoracic aortic cross-clamp was used in 31 (17%). Ten patients (6%) underwent beating heart operations with CPB support. Mean total operating time was 176 +/- 50 min. Mean CPB time was 135 +/- 40 min. Thirty-day mortality was 6.6%. Early echocardiographic follow-up revealed excellent valve function in most patients.

CONCLUSION

A minimally invasive approach is a useful alternative for patients requiring a MV procedure after a previous cardiac operation, particularly in patients with patent coronary bypass grafts or previous aortic valve replacement. Very good perioperative results can be achieved with this method.

Repeat sternotomy in congenital heart surgery: no longer a risk factor

BACKGROUND

The risk of repeat sternotomy (RS) is often taken into account when making clinical management decisions. Current literature on RS suggests a risk of approximately 5% to 10% for major morbidity. We sought to establish the true risk of RS in a contemporary pediatric series.

METHODS

All RS between October 2002 and August 2006 were analyzed (602 RS in 558 patients). Median age was 3.6 years (range, 0.1 to 45.1); weight, 14.2 kg (2.0 to 112.2). Operations performed at RS were Glenn 22% (131), Fontan 21% (129), aortic valve repair/replacement 12% (72), right ventricle-pulmonary artery conduit 11% (67), Rastelli 7% (39), heart transplant 5% (31), and other 22% (133). Forty-seven percent of patients (280) had single-ventricle physiology. Incidence of second sternotomy was 67% (406), third 28% (166), fourth 4% (24), fifth 0.8% (5), and sixth 0.2% (1). A major injury upon RS was defined as one causing hemodynamic instability requiring vasopressor support or emergent transfusion; femoral cannulation or emergent cardiopulmonary bypass; and any morbidity. A minor injury is any other injury during RS.

RESULTS

The incidence of a major injury was not different between RS (0.3%; 2 of 602) and first-time sternotomy (0%; 0 of 1,274; p > 0.1). Incidence of a minor injury was 0.66% (4 of 602). No injury resulted in hemodynamic instability, neurologic injury, or death. Two patients (0.3%) required a nonemergent blood transfusion secondary to injury. (Nonemergent was defined as adminstration rate of less than 0.2 cc/kg/min and less than 10 cc/kg in total.) Femoral cannulation was performed in 4 of 602 RS cases (< 0.6%). Sternal wound infection was 0.5% (3 of 602); reoperation for postoperative bleeding was 1% (8 of 602). Median intensive care unit stay was 3 days (1 to 174); median hospital stay was 7 days (1 to 202). Hospital survival was 98%.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat sternotomy can represent a negligible risk of injury and of subsequent morbidity or mortality. Therefore, the choice of management strategies for patients should not be affected by the need for RS.