Aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis: Influence of centre volume on TAVR adoption rates and outcomes in France

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter (TAVR) has supplanted surgical (SAVR) aortic valve replacement (AVR).

AIM

To evaluate whether adoption of this technology has varied according to centre volume at the nationwide level.

METHODS

From an administrative hospital-discharge database, we collected data on all AVRs performed in France between 2007 and 2019. Centres were divided into terciles based on the annual number of SAVRs performed in 2007-2009 ("before TAVR era").

RESULTS

A total of 192,773 AVRs (134,662 SAVRs and 58,111 TAVRs) were performed in 47 centres. The annual number of AVRs and TAVRs increased significantly and linearly in low-volume (<152 SAVRs/year; median 106, interquartile range [IQR] 75-129), middle-volume (152-219 SAVRs/year; median 197, IQR 172-212) and high-volume (>219 SAVRs/year; median 303, IQR 268-513) terciles, but to a greater degree in the latter (+14, +16 and +24 AVRs/centre/year and +16, +19 and +31 TAVRs/centre/year, respectively; PANCOVA<0.001). Charlson Comorbidity Index and in-hospital death rates declined from 2010 to 2019 in all terciles (all Ptrend<0.05). In 2017-2019, after adjusting for age, sex and Charlson Comorbidity Index, there was a trend toward lower death rates in the high-volume tercile (P=0.06) for SAVR, whereas death rates were similar for TAVR irrespective of tercile (P=0.27). Similar results were obtained when terciles were defined based on number of interventions performed in the last instead of the first 3years. Importantly, even centres in the lowest-volume tercile performed a relatively high number of interventions (150 TAVRs/year/centre).

CONCLUSIONS

In a centralized public healthcare system, the total number of AVRs increased linearly between 2007 and 2019, mostly due to an increase in TAVR, irrespective of centre volume. Progressive declines in patient risk profiles and death rates were observed in all terciles; in 2017-2019 death rates were similar in all terciles, although lower in high-volume centres for SAVR.

Tricuspid regurgitation: Frequency, clinical presentation, management and outcome among patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease in Europe. Insights from the ESC-EORP Valvular Heart Disease II survey

AIMS

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is commonly observed in patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease (VHD). This study sought to assess TR frequency, management and outcome in this population.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Among 6883 patients with severe native left-sided VHD or previous left-sided valvular intervention enrolled in the EURObservational Research Programme prospective VHD II survey, moderate or severe TR was very frequent in patients with severe mitral VHD (30% when mitral stenosis, 36% when mitral regurgitation [MR]), especially in patients with secondary MR (46%), and rare in patients with severe aortic VHD (4% when aortic stenosis, 3% when aortic regurgitation). An increase in TR grade was associated with a more severe clinical presentation and a poorer 6-month survival (p < 0.0001). Rates of concomitant tricuspid valve (TV) intervention at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery were high at the time of mitral valve surgery (50% when mitral stenosis, 41% when MR). Concordance between class I indications (patients with severe TR) for concomitant TV surgery at the time of left-sided valvular heart surgery according to guidelines and real-practice decision-making was very good (88% overall, 95% in patients operated on for MR).

CONCLUSION

In this large international prospective survey among patients with severe left-sided VHD, moderate/severe TR was frequent in patients with mitral valve disease and was associated with a poorer outcome as TR grade increased. In patients with severe TR, compliance to guidelines for class I indications for concomitant TV surgery at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery was very good.

Impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on aortic valve replacement and outcomes in France

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic lockdowns limited access to medical care. The impact on surgical (SAVR) and transcatheter (TAVR) aortic valve replacement (AVR) has been poorly described.

AIM

We sought to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the number and modalities of AVR, patient demographics and in-hospital outcomes at the nationwide level.

METHODS

Using the French nationwide administrative hospital discharge database, we compared projected numbers and proportions of AVR and hospital outcomes, obtained using linear regressions derived from 2015-2019 trends, with those observed in 2020.

RESULTS

In 2020, 21,382 AVRs were performed (13,051 TAVRs, 5706 isolated SAVRs and 2625 SAVRs combined with other cardiac surgery). Compared with the 2020 projected number of AVRs (24,586, 95% confidence interval [CI] 23,525-25,646), TAVRs (14,866, 95% CI 14,164-15,568), isolated SAVRs (6652, 95% CI 6203-7100) and SAVRs combined with other cardiac surgery (3069, 95% CI 2822-3315), there were reductions of 13.0%, 12.2%, 14.2% and 14.5%, respectively. These trends were similar regardless of sex or age. In 2020, the mean age, Charlson Comorbidity Index and hospital admission duration continued to decline, and the proportion of females remained constant, following 2015-2019 trends. Overall, 2020 in-hospital mortality was higher than projected (2.0% observed vs. 1.7% projected; 95% CI 1.5-1.9%), with no increased pacemaker implantation, but more acute kidney injury and cerebrovascular accidents in some surgical subsets.

CONCLUSIONS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer TAVR and SAVR procedures were performed, with increased in-hospital mortality and periprocedural complications. Extended follow-up will be important to establish the long-term effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on patient management and outcomes.

Association of Age and Sex With Use of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in France

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend selecting surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) based on age, comorbidities, and surgical risk. Nevertheless, reports from the United States suggest a rapid expansion of TAVR in young patients.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to evaluate the trends in TAVR uptake at a nationwide level in France according to age and sex.

METHODS

Using a nationwide administrative database, we evaluated age- and sex-related trends in TAVR uptake, patient demographics, and in-hospital outcomes between 2015 and 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 107,397 patients (44.0% female) underwent an isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) (59.1% TAVR, 40.9% SAVR). In patients <65 years of age, the proportion of TAVR increased by 63.2% (P < 0.001) from 2015 to 2020 but remained uncommon at 11.1% of all AVR by 2020 (12.4% in females, 10.6% in males) while TAVR was the dominant modality in patients ≥65 years of age. In patients undergoing TAVR, the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (P = 0.119 for trend) and in-hospital mortality (P = 0.740 for trend) remained unchanged in patients <65 years of age but declined in those ≥65 years of age irrespective of sex (all P < 0.001 for trends). Females were older (P < 0.001), had lower CCI (P < 0.001), were more likely to undergo TAVR (P < 0.001), and experienced higher in-hospital mortality (TAVR, P = 0.015; SAVR, P < 0.001) that persisted despite adjustment for age and CCI.

CONCLUSIONS

In France, the use of TAVR remained uncommon in young patients, predominantly restricted to those at high risk. Important sex differences were observed in patent demographics, selection of AVR modality, and patient outcomes. Additional research evaluating the long-term impact of TAVR use in young patients and prospective data evaluating sex differences in AVR modality selection and outcomes are needed.

Acute heart failure and valvular heart disease: A scientific statement of the Heart Failure Association, the Association for Acute CardioVascular Care and the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions of the European Society of Cardiology

Acute heart failure (AHF) represents a broad spectrum of disease states, resulting from the interaction between an acute precipitant and a patient's underlying cardiac substrate and comorbidities. Valvular heart disease (VHD) is frequently associated with AHF. AHF may result from several precipitants that add an acute haemodynamic stress superimposed on a chronic valvular lesion or may occur as a consequence of a new significant valvular lesion. Regardless of the mechanism, clinical presentation may vary from acute decompensated heart failure to cardiogenic shock. Assessing the severity of VHD as well as the correlation between VHD severity and symptoms may be difficult in patients with AHF because of the rapid variation in loading conditions, concomitant destabilization of the associated comorbidities and the presence of combined valvular lesions. Evidence-based interventions targeting VHD in settings of AHF have yet to be identified, as patients with severe VHD are often excluded from randomized trials in AHF, so results from these trials do not generalize to those with VHD. Furthermore, there are not rigorously conducted randomized controlled trials in the setting of VHD and AHF, most of the data coming from observational studies. Thus, distinct to chronic settings, current guidelines are very elusive when patients with severe VHD present with AHF, and a clear-cut strategy could not be yet defined. Given the paucity of evidence in this subset of AHF patients, the aim of this scientific statement is to describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and overall treatment approach for patients with VHD who present with AHF.

Unmet needs in valvular heart disease

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is the next epidemic in the cardiovascular field, affecting millions of people worldwide and having a major impact on health care systems. With aging of the population, the incidence and prevalence of VHD will continue to increase. However, VHD has not received the attention it deserves from both the public and policymakers. Despite important advances in the pathophysiology, natural history, management, and treatment of VHD including the development of transcatheter therapies, VHD remains underdiagnosed, identified late, and often undertreated with inequality in access to care and treatment options, and there is no medication that can prevent disease progression. The present review article discusses these gaps in the management of VHD and potential actions to undertake to improve the outcome of patients with VHD.

EURObservational Research Programme: a bibliometric assessment of its scientific output

AIMS

Given the lack of reliable observational data, a network of volunteer centres, and standardized methodological procedures, the European Society of Cardiology EURObservational Research Programme (EORP) was set up to provide a better understanding of real-world cardiovascular care and outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the scientific impact of EORP using a bibliometric approach.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We collected data for each individual publication and for each individual journal with at least one EORP publication. Bibliometric indicators evaluating research performance were categorized into those evaluating EORP publications (publication-based indicators) and those assessing the journals where those papers were published (journal-based indicators). During the first ∼11 years since its inception, we found that EORP produced 189 publications, with most published in journals in the first quartile (60.9%) or the second quartile (33.5%) of the Web of Science Journal Citation Report. The total number of citations to EORP publications was 9630 (average citation per publication of 51, h-index of 54, and 29 EORP publications with ≥100 citations). Of EORP publications, 20 had an Altmetric Attention Score >50 and 9 had a score >100. A total of 52 EORP papers have been cited 65 times in ESC Clinical Practice Guidelines between 2013 and 2021.

CONCLUSION

EORP registries have contributed to impactful scientific knowledge. The high-quality metrics highlight the relevance of the EORP international cardiovascular registries to the academic community. Efforts are needed to support this, and other programmes aimed at delivering real-world evidence from independent patient data of cardiovascular care and outcomes across multiple geographies.

Aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis in France – influence of centers' volumes on TAVR adoption rate and outcomes

Aims

Over the last decade, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) became extensively used, now being the recommended as first line procedure for aortic valve replacement (AVR) in selected patients' populations. It is unknown whether TAVR adoption rate and variability in outcomes is influenced by centers' volume.

Methods

From a French administrative hospital-discharge database, we collected all AVR performed in France between 2007 and 2019. Centers were stratified to terciles based on their annual SAVR per year per center during 2007–2009 (“pre TAVR era”).

Results

There was 218,489 AVRs (153,747 SAVR and 74,732 TAVR) performed in 46 centers between 2007–2019. Number of total AVR and even more so number of number of TAVR significantly and linearly increased from 2007 to 2019 in all terciles but faster in the high volume tercile (+17, +17 and +31 AVR/center/year in the low, middle and high terciles respectively, P [ANCOVA]&lt;0.001; +11, + 19 and +33 TAVR/center/year in the low, medium and high tercile respectively, P [ANCOVA] &lt;0.00, Figure 1). The age of patients underwent TAVR remained grossly unchanged in all three terciles, however, the Charlson index declined from 2010 to 2019 (from 1.35±1.42 to 0.65±1.04, from 1.21±1.40 to 0.65±1.05 and from 1.53±1.58 to 0.81±1.21, in the low, middle and high terciles, P for trend &lt;0.001, 0.021, and &lt;0.001, respectively). Charlson score in the years 2017–2019, was higher in the high than middle and low terciles (0.87±1.22, 0.76±1.11 and 0.65±1.04, respectively, P&lt;0.0001). The in-hospital mortality rate for TAVR significantly declined from 2010 to 2019 for TAVR in all terciles (from 8.3% to 2.1%, from 7.5% to 2.5% and from 8.2% to 2.1% for low, middle and high TAVR terciles, respectively; p for trend = 0.002, 0.001 and &lt;0.001, respectively, Figure 2). Average mortality in 2017–2019 was similar in all terciles (2.3%, 2.5% and 2.2% for low, middle and high terciles, respectively, P=0.47). After adjusting for age, sex and Charlson score, mortality was higher in the low tercile compared with middle and high terciles (OR 1.15, P&lt;0.001, confidence interval [CI] 1.0–1.2, and OR 1.18, P&lt;0.001, CI 1.1–1.2, respectively).

Conclusions

From 2007 to 2019 total AVR linearly increased, mostly due to increase in TAVR, irrespective of centers' volume, but increase rate was higher in high volume centers. A constant decline in patients risk profile, with a striking decrease in mortality rate, was observed in all volume terciles. High-volume centers patients' have higher risk profile, with adjusted mortality slightly lower than medium and low volume centers.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Tricuspid regurgitation: frequency, management and outcome among patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease in Europe. Insights from the ESC-EORP valvular heart disease II survey

Background

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is frequent among patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease (LS-VHD).

Objectives

This study sought to assess TR frequency, management and outcome in this population.

Methods

Among 6883 patients with severe LS-VHD or previous valvular intervention in the EURObservational Research Programme prospective VHD II survey, we analyzed frequency and grade of TR according to LS-VHD, and 6-month survival according to TR grade. Among 2081 patients who underwent an intervention for severe LS-VHD, we analyzed frequency and outcome of concomitant TV intervention, and concordance between Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery (patients with severe TR) and real-practice decision-making.

Results

Moderate to severe TR was very frequent among patients with severe mitral VHD (≥30%), especially in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation (46%), and rare among patients with aortic VHD (&lt;5%). Higher TR grade was associated with a poorer 6-month survival (P&lt;0.001). Rates of concomitant tricuspid valve (TV) intervention at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery were high at the time of mitral valve surgery (more than 40%). Concomitant TV intervention at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery (LS-HVS) was not associated with an increase in-hospital mortality (P=0.93). Concordance between Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery at the time of LS-HVS according to guidelines and real-practice decision-making was very good (88% overall).

Conclusion

TR was frequent in patients with mitral VHD and was associated with a poorer outcome as TR grade increased. Compliance to guidelines for Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery at the time of LS-HVS was very good. With the trend toward more transcatheter treatment for left-sided VHD, there is a critical need for safe and efficient tricuspid valve transcatheter treatment for patients with concomitant TR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Multi-modality imaging assessment of native valvular regurgitation: an EACVI and ESC council of valvular heart disease position paper

Valvular regurgitation represents an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Imaging is pivotal in the evaluation of native valve regurgitation and echocardiography is the primary imaging modality for this purpose. The imaging assessment of valvular regurgitation should integrate quantification of the regurgitation, assessment of the valve anatomy and function, and the consequences of valvular disease on cardiac chambers. In clinical practice, the management of patients with valvular regurgitation largely relies on the results of imaging. It is crucial to provide standards that aim at establishing a baseline list of measurements to be performed when assessing native valve regurgitation. The present document aims to present clinical guidance for the multi-modality imaging assessment of native valvular regurgitation.

Contemporary Management of Severe Symptomatic Aortic Stenosis

BACKGROUND

There were gaps between guidelines and practice when surgery was the only treatment for aortic stenosis (AS).

OBJECTIVES

This study analyzed the decision to intervene in patients with severe AS in the EORP VHD (EURObservational Research Programme Valvular Heart Disease) II survey.

METHODS

Among 2,152 patients with severe AS, 1,271 patients with high-gradient AS who were symptomatic fulfilled a Class I recommendation for intervention according to the 2012 European Society of Cardiology guidelines; the primary end point was the decision for intervention.

RESULTS

A decision not to intervene was taken in 262 patients (20.6%). In multivariate analysis, the decision not to intervene was associated with older age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.34 per 10-year increase; 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.61; P = 0.002), New York Heart Association functional classes I and II versus III (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.16 to 2.30; P = 0.005), higher age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (OR: 1.09 per 1-point increase; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.17; P = 0.03), and a lower transaortic mean gradient (OR: 0.81 per 10-mm Hg decrease; 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.92; P < 0.001). During the study period, 346 patients (40.2%, median age 84 years, median EuroSCORE II [European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II] 3.1%) underwent transcatheter intervention and 515 (59.8%, median age 69 years, median EuroSCORE II 1.5%) underwent surgery. A decision not to intervene versus intervention was associated with lower 6-month survival (87.4%; 95% CI: 82.0 to 91.3 vs 94.6%; 95% CI: 92.8 to 95.9; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A decision not to intervene was taken in 1 in 5 patients with severe symptomatic AS despite a Class I recommendation for intervention and the decision was particularly associated with older age and combined comorbidities. Transcatheter intervention was extensively used in octogenarians.

Trends in aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis: a French nationwide study

AIMS

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) has profoundly changed the management of patients with aortic valve stenosis (AS). Large unbiased nationwide data regarding TAVR implementation, impact on SAVR and their respective outcomes are scarce.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Based on a French administrative hospital-discharge database, we collected data on all consecutive aortic valve replacements (AVRs) performed in France for AS between 2007 and 2019 [106 253 isolated SAVR (49%), 46 514 combined SAVR (21%), and 65 651 TAVR (30%)]. The number of AVR linearly increased between 2007 and 2019 (from 10 892 to 23 109, P for trend < 0.0001) due to a marked increase in TAVR (from 253 to 13 030, P for trend < 0.0001), while SAVR increased up to 2013 and then declined (10 892 in 2007, 12 699 in 2013, and 10 079 in 2019). The Charlson index decreased linearly for TAVR, but in two steps for SAVR (2011 and 2017). In-hospital mortality rates of both SAVR and TAVR declined (both P for trend < 0.0001) and were similar or lower for TAVR than for isolated SAVR in patients 75 years or above in the last 3 years (2017-19). Complication rates of TAVR also declined but permanent pacemaker rates remained high and length of stay substantial (16.7% and median 6 days, respectively, in 2017-19).

CONCLUSION

The number of AVR has doubled in a decade and TAVR has become the dominant form of AVR in 2018. The improvement in patient profiles seems to have anticipated the demonstrated benefit of TAVR in intermediate and low-risk patients. In patients 75 years or older, TAVR should be considered as the first option. We also highlight two important areas for improvement, the high permanent pacemaker rates, and the long length of stay even in the contemporary era. Our results may have major implications for clinical practice and policymakers.

Predictors of Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction After Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement in Severe Mitral Annular Calcification: An Analysis of the Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement in Mitral Annular Calcification Global Registry

[Figure: see text].

Outcomes of transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention by right ventricular function: a multicentre propensity-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) has a poor prognosis and limited treatment options and is frequently accompanied by right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions (TTVI) to reduce TR have been shown to be safe and feasible with encouraging early results. Patient selection for TTVI remains challenging, with the role of right ventricular (RV) function being unknown.

AIMS

The aims of this study were 1) to investigate survival in a TTVI-treated patient population and a conservatively treated TR population, and 2) to evaluate the outcome of TTVI as compared to conservative treatment stratified according to the degree of RV function.

METHODS

We studied 684 patients from the multicentre TriValve cohort (TTVI cohort) and compared them to 914 conservatively treated patients from two tertiary care centres. Propensity matching identified 213 pairs of patients with severe TR. As we observed a non-linear relationship of RV function and TTVI outcome, we stratified patients according to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to preserved (TAPSE >17 mm), mid-range (TAPSE 13-17 mm) and reduced (TAPSE <13 mm) RV function. The primary outcome was one-year all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

TTVI was associated with a survival benefit in patients with severe TR when compared to matched controls (one-year mortality rate: 13.1% vs 25.8%; p=0.031). Of the three RV subgroups, only in patients with mid-range RV function was TTVI associated with an improved survival (p log-rank 0.004). In these patients, procedural success was associated with a reduced hazard ratio for all-cause mortality (HR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.57).

CONCLUSIONS

TTVI is associated with reduced mortality compared to conservative therapy and might exert its highest treatment effect in patients with mid-range reduced RV function.

Causes and predictors of mortality after transcatheter mitral valve implantation in patients with severe mitral annulus calcification

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the causes and predictors of mortality after valve-in-mitral annulus calcification (MAC) transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI).

BACKGROUND

Conventional surgical mitral valve replacement is associated with a high risk in patients with mitral valve disease associated with severe MAC. In this population, TMVI may be an attractive alternative option. However, its prognostic factors are poorly understood.

METHODS

All patients undergoing valve-in-MAC TMVI from 2013 to 2018 in our center were included. Indication for TMVI relied on the judgment of the local heart team. Patients were followed at 30 days and 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 34 patients underwent valve-in-MAC TMVI. The mean age was 79 ± 11 years and 73% of patients were women. Their mean EuroSCORE 2 was 8 ± 7%. The transseptal approach was used in 79% of patients and a hybrid transatrial in 29%. Balloon expandable transcatheter heart valves were used in all the patients. Technical success was achieved in 76% of the patients. Thirty-day and 1-year all-cause mortality rates were 14.7% and 32.4%, respectively. The main two causes of 1-year mortality were congestive heart failure (8.8%) and infective endocarditis (5.9%). In multivariate analysis, the only predictor of 1-year mortality was the presence of periprothetic mitral regurgitation grade 2 (HR, 5.69; 95%CI, 1.59-27.88, p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Early and mid-term mortality remains high after valve-in-MAC TMVI and seems to be associated with the presence of paravalvular mitral regurgitation. However, whether the latter is a prognostic factor or marker remains to be determined to improve clinical outcomes in this high-risk population.

Secondary valve regurgitation in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction, and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

Secondary mitral regurgitation and secondary tricuspid regurgitation due to heart failure (HF) remain challenging in almost every aspect: increasing prevalence, poor prognosis, notoriously elusive in diagnosis, and complexity of therapeutic management. Recently, defined HF subgroups according to three ejection fraction (EF) ranges (reduced, mid-range, and preserved) have stimulated a structured understanding of the HF syndrome but the role of secondary valve regurgitation (SVR) across the spectrum of EF remains undefined. This review expands this structured understanding by consolidating the underlying phenotype of myocardial impairment with each type of SVR. Specifically, the current understanding, epidemiological considerations, impact, public health burden, mechanisms, and treatment options of SVR are discussed separately for each lesion across the HF spectrum. Furthermore, this review identifies important gaps in knowledge, future directions for research, and provides potential solutions for diagnosis and treatment. Mastering the challenge of SVR requires a multidisciplinary collaborative effort, both, in clinical practice and scientific approach to optimize patient outcomes.

Predictors and clinical impact of thrombosis after transcatheter mitral valve implantation using balloon-expandable bioprostheses

AIMS

The aim of this study was to report the predictors and clinical impact of transcatheter heart valve (THV) thrombosis in patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We included 130 patients who consecutively underwent TMVI. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) and/or computed tomography (CT) were performed in 91.7% of patients at discharge, in 73.3% at three months and in 72% beyond three months. THV thrombosis was defined as the presence of at least one thickened leaflet with restricted motion confirmed by TOE or contrast CT and classified as immediate, early, or late according to the timing of diagnosis. THV thrombosis was observed in 16 (12.3%) patients: immediate in 43.7%, early in 37.5% and late in 18.8%. Most of these thromboses were subclinical (93.7%) and non-obstructive (87.5%). No thromboembolic event occurred. After optimisation of antithrombotic treatment, THV thromboses resolved in all but one patient. Predictors were shock for immediate (p<0.001), male sex for early (p=0.045) and absence of anticoagulation for both early (p=0.018) and late (p=0.023) THV thromboses.

CONCLUSIONS

THV thrombosis is frequent after TMVI, occurs mainly within the first three months, is mostly subclinical and resolves after optimisation of antithrombotic treatment. An anticoagulation therapy for at least three months after the procedure is mandatory.

Prognostic Value of Peak Exercise Systolic Pulmonary Arterial Pressure in Asymptomatic Primary Mitral Valve Regurgitation

BACKGROUND

The contribution of exercise echocardiography in primary asymptomatic mitral regurgitation (MR) remains debated. The aim of this study was to gain evidence regarding its usefulness in this setting and to investigate the prognostic value of peak exercise systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP).

METHODS

One hundred seventy-seven patients (mean age, 56 ± 13 years; 69% men) with moderate to severe (grade 3+) or severe (grade 4+) degenerative MR and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, in sinus rhythm, referred for clinically indicated exercise echocardiography were identified. The end point, MR-related events, was a composite of all-cause death or occurrence of symptoms, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, left ventricular ejection fraction < 60%, left ventricular end-systolic diameter ≥ 45 mm, or resting SPAP > 50 mm Hg.

RESULTS

At rest, effective regurgitant orifice area was 48 ± 16 mm², regurgitant volume 74 ± 26 mL, and SPAP 32 ± 7 mm Hg, and MR was severe in 138 patients (78%). Peak exercise SPAP was 55 ± 10 mm Hg. Positive results on exercise testing motivated surgery in 26 patients, 11 underwent prophylactic surgery, 10 were lost to follow-up, and 130 were included in the outcome analysis. During a follow-up period of 19 ± 7 months, 31 MR-related events (24%) were reported. Peak exercise SPAP was predictive of outcomes in univariate analysis (P = .01) and after adjustment for age, gender, MR severity, and resting SPAP (P < .05). Peak exercise SPAP ≥ 50 mm Hg was associated with worse event-free survival (hazard ratio, 5.24; 95% CI, 1.77-15.53; P = .003), but not the threshold of ≥60 mm Hg proposed in previous guidelines (hazard ratio, 1.70; 95% CI, 0.71-4.03; P = .24).

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings support the use of exercise echocardiography for risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic primary MR and suggest a lower peak exercise SPAP threshold (50 mm Hg) than previously recommended to define the timing of intervention. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

The role of transcatheter mitral valve leaflet approximation for the treatment of secondary mitral regurgitation: current status and future prospects

Introduction: Secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) is one of the most common valvulopathies and is associated with poor prognosis. Over the past years, medical management and mitral valve repair options have rapidly evolved offering new opportunities for a wide range of patients.Areas covered: We provide an up-to-date review of the value of medical and transcatheter mitral valve leaflet approximation for SMR integrating the results of most recent trials and putting their findings into clinical perspective.Expert opinion: Treatment of SMR requires a multidisciplinary approach with a long-term perspective. After optimization of medical treatment, transcatheter mitral valve repair should be considered in patients with persisting symptomatic severe SMR to improve symptoms and prognosis.

The management of secondary mitral regurgitation in patients with heart failure: a joint position statement from the Heart Failure Association (HFA), European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI), European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), and European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) of the ESC

Secondary (or functional) mitral regurgitation (SMR) occurs frequently in chronic heart failure (HF) with reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, resulting from LV remodelling that prevents coaptation of the valve leaflets. Secondary mitral regurgitation contributes to progression of the symptoms and signs of HF and confers worse prognosis. The management of HF patients with SMR is complex and requires timely referral to a multidisciplinary Heart Team. Optimization of pharmacological and device therapy according to guideline recommendations is crucial. Further management requires careful clinical and imaging assessment, addressing the anatomical and functional features of the mitral valve and left ventricle, overall HF status, and relevant comorbidities. Evidence concerning surgical correction of SMR is sparse and it is doubtful whether this approach improves prognosis. Transcatheter repair has emerged as a promising alternative, but the conflicting results of current randomized trials require careful interpretation. This collaborative position statement, developed by four key associations of the European Society of Cardiology-the Heart Failure Association (HFA), European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI), European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI), and European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA)-presents an updated practical approach to the evaluation and management of patients with HF and SMR based upon a Heart Team approach.

Current Indications for Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement Using Transcatheter Aortic Valves

Use of transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) using transcatheter aortic valves in clinical practice is limited to patients with failing bioprostheses and rings or mitral valve disease associated with severe mitral annulus calcification. Whereas the use of valve-in-valve TMVR appears to be a reasonable alternative to surgery in patients at high surgical risk, much less evidence supports valve-in-ring and valve-in-mitral annulus calcification interventions. Data on the results of TMVR in these settings are derived from small case series or voluntary registries. This review summarizes the current evidence on TMVR using transcatheter aortic valves in clinical practice from the characteristics of the TMVR candidates, screening process, performance of the procedure, and description of current results and future perspectives. TMVR using dedicated devices in native noncalcified mitral valve diseases is beyond the scope of the article.

Management and Outcome of Patients Admitted With Tricuspid Regurgitation in France

BACKGROUND

Growing evidence shows a major outcome impact and undertreatment of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), but large and comprehensive contemporary reports of management and outcome at the nationwide level are lacking.

METHODS

We gathered all consecutive patients admitted with a diagnosis of likely functional TR in 2014-2015 in France from the Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d'Information national database and collected rate of surgery, in-hospital mortality, 1-year mortality, or heart failure (HF) readmission rates.

RESULTS

In 2014-2015, 17,676 consecutive patients (75 ± 14 years of age, 51% female) were admitted with a TR diagnosis. Charlson index was ≥ 2 in 56% of the population and 46% presented with HF. TR was associated with prior cardiac surgery, ischemic/dilated cardiomyopathy, or mitral regurgitation in 73% of patients. Only 10% of TR patients overall and 67% of those undergoing mitral valve surgery received a tricuspid valve intervention. Among the 13,654 (77%) conservatively managed patients, in-hospital mortality, 1-year mortality, and 1-year mortality or HF readmission rates were 5.1%, 17.8%, and 41%, respectively, overall, and 5.3%,17.2%, and 37%, respectively, among those with no underlying medical conditions (8-fold higher than predicted for age and gender).

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide cohort of patients admitted with TR included elderly patients with frequent comorbidities/underlying cardiac diseases. In patients conservatively managed, mortality and morbidity were considerably high over a short time span. Despite this poor prognosis, only 10% of patients underwent a tricuspid valve intervention. These nationwide data showing a considerable risk and potential underuse of treatment highlight the critical need to develop strategies to improve the management and outcomes of TR patients.

Presentation and outcomes of mitral valve surgery in France in the recent era: a nationwide perspective

Objectives

Unbiased information regarding the surgical management of patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) at the nationwide level are scarce and mainly US-based. The Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d’Information, a mandatory national database, offers the unique opportunity to assess the presentation and outcomes of all consecutive mitral valve (MV) surgeries performed in France in the contemporary era.

Methods

We collected all MV surgeries performed for MR in France in 2014–2016. MR aetiology was classified as degenerative (DMR), secondary (SMR) or Other (rheumatic or congenital disease and infective endocarditis).

Results

During the 3-year period, 18 167 MV surgeries were performed in France (55% repair and 45% replacement; 52% isolated). Age was 66±12 years and 59% were male. Aetiology was DMR in 42%, SMR in 16% and other in 42% including 19% with uncertain aetiologies. Overall, in-hospital mortality was 6.5% and increased with age, female gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index, type of surgery (replacement vs repair), associated surgery (combined vs isolated) and MR aetiology (all p<0.01). In-hospital mortality and rate of death/readmission for heart failure (HF) at 1 year were 3.4% and 13%, respectively for DMR (2.4% and 11% for isolated DMR) and 7.8% and 27%, respectively for SMR (5.5% and 23% for isolated SMR). Repair rate was 55% overall, 68% in DMR and 72% for isolated DMR surgery (70% of all DMR). Repair rates decreased with age, Charlson Comorbidity Index and female sex (all p<0.0001).

Conclusion

In this cross-sectional contemporary prospective nationwide database, in-hospital mortality and 1 year rate of death and HF readmission were considerable overall and in all subsets. Repair rates were suboptimal overall especially in the elderly and women subsets. These results underline the need to develop strategies to improve management and outcomes of patients with both DMR and SMR.

Valve-in-Valve and Valve-in-Ring Transcatheter Mitral Valve Implantation in Young Women Contemplating Pregnancy

Background:

Transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI) is emerging as an alternative to surgical mitral valve replacement in selected high-risk patients. Delaying definitive mechanical mitral valve replacement and the constraints of anticoagulation thanks to TMVI may be an attractive option in young women contemplating pregnancy and suffering from failure of mitral bioprosthesis or annuloplasty. The aim of the study was to evaluate the possibility, safety, and outcomes of pregnancy after TMVI in this population.

Methods:

From 2013 to 2019, 12 young women contemplating pregnancy underwent transseptal valve-in-valve or valve-in-ring TMVI using the Edwards SAPIEN XT/3 valves and were prospectively followed up at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and yearly thereafter.

Results:

Mean age of the patients was 30±6 years. Bioprosthesis degeneration was observed in 7 cases and annuloplasty failure in 5. Three valve-in-ring patients required the implantation of a second valve, which led to an overall procedural success rate of 75%. One delayed left ventricular outflow tract obstruction required elective surgical mitral valve replacement. At 6 months/1 year, 83% of the patients were in New York Heart Association classes I/II. Mitral regurgitation was ≤2+ in all the cases and mean gradient was 7±2 mm Hg. Four patients could complete 6 full-term pregnancies. One symptomatic thrombosis occurred and resolved under aspirin and anticoagulation therapy. All others pregnancies were uneventful. Predelivery mean gradient was 11 mm Hg, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure was 32 mm Hg. There were 4 vaginal deliveries and 2 cesarians. Newborns were alive and healthy. At last follow-up, there was no death, and 3 patients required elective surgical mitral valve replacement at 6- to 54-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests that, in young women, transseptal TMVI to treat failing bioprostheses may result in good short-term outcomes that allow uneventful pregnancies. The results are less favorable in women with failed annuloplasty rings.

Incidence, clinical impact and treatment outcomes of valve thrombosis after transcatheter mitral valve implantation

Background

Transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI) is a new treatment option for high-risk surgical patients with degenerated bioprosthesis (ViV), failed annuloplasty rings (ViR) and severe mitral annular calcification (ViMAC). However, limited data exist on transcatheter heart valve thrombosis.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to report the incidence, clinical impact and treatment outcomes of transcatheter heart valve (THV) thrombosis in patients undergoing TMVI.

Methods

All consecutive patients undergoing TMVI in our center between July 2010 and September 2019 were included. A transoesophageal echocardiography and a computed tomography (CT) were performed before hospital discharge and at each clinical visit, at 3 months, at 1 year and yearly after. THV thrombosis was defined as the presence of at least one thickened leaflet with restricted motion suggestive of thrombus confirmed by TOE and/or contrast CT. All patients received anticoagulation therapy with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) and a low dose of aspirin for the first 3 months.

Results

A total of 132 patients underwent TMVI (62 ViV, 36 ViR and 34 ViMAC). Among them, 16 (12.1%) patients had a THV thrombosis. Median age was 67 years old and 56.2% of patients were women. Median time to diagnosis of THV thrombosis was 78 days. Early THV thrombosis was observed in 7 (43.7%) and in 13 (81.2%) patients THV thrombosis occurred within the first 6 months after the procedure. 8 out 9 patients with subacute or late THV thrombosis were not anticoagulated or with subtherapeutic anticoagulation. No stroke or thromboembolic events occurred in these patients. No change in mitral gradient was observed in 14 out 16 patients. VKA were indicated in all patients. THV thrombosis resolved in all but one patient.

Conclusion

THV thrombosis is frequent after TMVI, occurs mainly within the first 6-months after the procedure, are mostly subclinical and resolves after optimization of anticoagulation treatment. An anticoagulation therapy for at least 6 months may be necessary.

Timing of THV thrombosis

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Transseptal transcatheter mitral valve implantation versus redo surgical mitral valve replacement for degenerated mitral bioprostheses

Background

The growing use of surgical bioprostheses raises concerns about a future reoperation for bioprosthesis degeneration. There are few data on outcome after transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve implantation (TMVI) compared with redo surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR).

Purpose

To compare the feasibility, safety and outcomes of TMVI versus SMVR for degenerated mitral bioprosthesis in high-risk patients.

Methods

In our institution, 52 patients underwent TMVI by transseptal approach and 33 SMVR for degenerated mitral bioprosthesis. The composite endpoint of event-free survival included cardiovascular mortality, stroke, major bleeding, hospitalization for heart failure or mitral valve reintervention.

Results

Mean age and EuroSCORE II were higher in TMVI group vs. SMVR group (age 63±21 years vs. 51±15 years, p=0.002; EuroSCORE II 12.5±12.2% vs. 6.2±3.3%, p=0.001) (Table). In-hospital mortality was 3.8% after TMVI vs. 3.0% after SMVR (p=1.0).

Median follow-up was 2.2 years. At 5 years, survival was 69.7±9.4% after TMVI vs. 86.6±7.6% after SMVR (p=0.10) and event-free survival was lower after TMVI (40.1±9.9% vs 78.7±8.8% respectively, p=0.003) (Figure). In multivariate analysis, older age (p=0.02), neurologic history (p=0.05) and non-elective procedure (p&lt;0.0001) were associated with lower event-free survival, while TMVI vs. SMVR was no longer significant (p=0.17). At last follow-up, 84% patients from TMVI group and 78% from SMVR group were NYHA I-II class. Mean mitral valve gradient and pulmonary artery systolic pressure were respectively 6.8±2.5 mmHg and 45±14 mmHg in TMVI group, and 4.8±2.0 mmHg and 37±11 mmHg in SMVR group.

Conclusion

TMVI is an alternative to SMVR in high-risk patients with degenerated mitral bioprosthesis. Comparison of mid-term results of the two techniques must take into account the differences in patient characteristics.

Event-free survival

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Impact of Mitral Regurgitation Severity and Left Ventricular Remodeling on Outcome After MitraClip Implantation: Results From the Mitra-FR Trial

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify a subset of patients based on echocardiographic parameters who might have benefited from transcatheter correction using the MitraClip system in the MITRA-FR (Percutaneous Repair with the MitraClip Device for Severe Functional/Secondary Mitral Regurgitation) trial.

BACKGROUND

It has been suggested that differences in the degree of mitral regurgitation (MR) and left ventricular (LV) remodeling may explain the conflicting results between the MITRA-FR and the COAPT (Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients with Functional Mitral Regurgitation) trials.

METHODS

In a post hoc analysis, we evaluated the interaction between the intervention and subsets of patients defined based on MR severity (effective regurgitant orifice [ERO], regurgitant volume [RVOL] and regurgitant fraction [RF]), LV remodeling (end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters and volumes) and combination of these parameters with respect to the composite of death from any cause or unplanned hospitalization for heart failure at 24 months.

RESULTS

We observed a neutral impact of the intervention in subsets with the highest MR degree (ERO ≥30 mm², RVOL ≥45 ml or RF ≥50%) as in patients with milder MR degree. The same was seen in subsets with the milder LV remodeling using either diastolic or systolic diameters or volumes. When parameters of MR severity and LV remodeling were combined, there was still no benefit of the intervention including in the subset of patients with an ERO/end-diastolic volume ratio ≥ 0.15 despite similar ERO and LV end-diastolic volume compared with COAPT patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In the MITRA-FR trial, we could not identify a subset of patients defined based on the degree of the regurgitation, LV remodeling or on their combination, including those deemed as having disproportionate MR, that might have benefited from transcatheter correction using the MitraClip system. (Multicentre Study of Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair MitraClip Device in Patients With Severe Secondary Mitral Regurgitation [MITRA-FR]; NCT01920698).

Transcatheter heart valve interventions: where are we? Where are we going?

Transcatheter heart valve interventions have transformed the outcomes of patients with valvular heart disease (VHD) who are unfavourable candidates for surgery. Technological advances have allowed extension of these interventions to younger or lower risk patients and those with other forms of VHD and may in the future permit earlier treatment of VHD in less symptomatic patients or those with moderate disease. The balance of risks and benefits is likely to differ between lower and higher risk patients, and more evidence is needed to evaluate the net benefit of transcatheter technology in these groups. As academic researchers, clinicians, industry, and patient stakeholders collaborate to research these broader indications for transcatheter valve interventions, it is essential to address (i) device durability and deliverability, (ii) specific anatomical needs (e.g. bicuspid aortic valves, aortic regurgitation, mitral and tricuspid valve disease), (iii) operator training, and (iv) the reinforced importance of the multidisciplinary Heart Team.