Successful explantation of children from the Berlin Heart EXCOR® ventricular assist device: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The Berlin Heart EXCOR® (BHE) can bridge children with severe heart failure to transplantation, but some are successfully weaned and spared transplantation. This study seeks to identify characteristics of children amenable to successful explantation with BHE support.

METHODS

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines were used. Five databases were screened for original, English articles measuring BHE support in patients <18 years old based on title and abstract. Exclusion criteria were applied: full-text availability, <10 total pediatric BHE patients, zero successful explantations from BHE, nonprimary literature, adult and pediatric results that could not be separated, and studies with overlapping patient information. Studies were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

From 41 857 potential studies, 14 were analyzed with data from 58 hospitals on four continents from 1990 to 2020. There were 984 BHE patients. The most common diagnosis was dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 318, 32.3%), followed by congenital heart disease (n = 249, 25.3%). There were 85 (8.6%) children explanted with favorable outcomes. The underlying diagnosis was known in 44 (51.8%) cases: 14 (8.4%) of 166 cardiomyopathies, 17 (48.6%) of 35 myocarditis, and 12 (16.7%) of 72 with congenital heart disease were explanted. When the type of support was known, the rate of LVAD patients explanted was 21.3% (n = 19/89) and 2.4% (n = 1/42) of BiVAD patients were explanted.

CONCLUSION

Explantation from BHE is not uncommon at 8.6%, but significant variation exists in the explantation data reported. Myocarditis and LVAD support may be populations suitable for weaning. Standardization of reporting measures and prospective registries may help identify patients suitable for this alternative to transplant and help develop weaning protocols.

Impact of electrophysiologists at daily multidisciplinary report in a paediatric cardiac care unit

BACKGROUND

Paediatric cardiac electrophysiologists are essential in CHD inpatient care, but their involvement is typically limited to consultation with individual patients. In our integrated heart centre, an electrophysiologist reviews all cardiac inpatient telemetry over the preceding 24 hours and participates in daily multidisciplinary morning report. This study investigates the impact of the strategy of consistent, formalised electrophysiologist presence at multidisciplinary morning report.

METHODS

This is a single-centre, prospective, observational study of electrophysiologist participation in patient encounters during heart centre multidisciplinary morning report from 10/20/2021 to 10/31/2022. Multidisciplinary morning report includes discussion of all intensive care and non-intensive care cardiac patients. An encounter was defined as reporting on one patient for one day. Electrophysiologists were initially blinded to observations.

RESULTS

Two electrophysiologists were observed over 215 days encompassing 6413 patient encounters. Electrophysiologists made comments on 581(9.1%) encounters in 234 unique patients with diverse diagnoses, equating to a median of 3[interquartile range:1-4] encounters per day. These included identifications of arrhythmias and describing electrocardiographic findings. Recommendation to change management occurred in 282(48.5%) encounters, most commonly regarding medications (n = 142, 24.4%) or pacemaker management (n = 48, 8.3%). Of the 581 encounters, there were 61(10.5%) in which they corrected another physician's interpretation of rhythm or electrocardiogram.

CONCLUSION

Routine electrophysiologist involvement in multidisciplinary morning report provides significant, frequent, and timely input in patient management by identifying precise rhythm-related diagnoses and allowing nuanced, patient-specific medication and pacemaker management of all cardiac patients, not just those consulted. Electrophysiologist presence at multidisciplinary morning report is a vital resource and this practice should be considered at integrated paediatric cardiac centres.

Analysis of haemodynamics surrounding blood transfusions after the arterial switch operation: a pilot study utilising real-time telemetry high-frequency data capture

BACKGROUND

Packed red blood cell transfusions occur frequently after congenital heart surgery to augment haemodynamics, with limited understanding of efficacy. The goal of this study was to analyse the hemodynamic response to packed red blood cell transfusions in a single cohort, as "proof-of-concept" utilising high-frequency data capture of real-time telemetry monitoring.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients after the arterial switch operation receiving packed red blood cell transfusions from 15 July 2020 to 15 July 2021. Hemodynamic parameters were collected from a high-frequency data capture system (SickbayTM) continuously recording vital signs from bedside monitors and analysed in 5-minute intervals up to 6 hours before, 4 hours during, and 6 hours after packed red blood cell transfusions-up to 57,600 vital signs per packed red blood cell transfusions. Variables related to oxygen balance included blood gas co-oximetry, lactate levels, near-infrared spectroscopy, and ventilator settings. Analgesic, sedative, and vasoactive infusions were also collected.

RESULTS

Six patients, at 8.5[IQR:5-22] days old and weighing 3.1[IQR:2.8-3.2]kg, received transfusions following the arterial switch operation. There were 10 packed red blood cell transfusions administered with a median dose of 10[IQR:10-15]mL/kg over 169[IQR:110-190]min; at median post-operative hour 36[IQR:10-40]. Significant increases in systolic and mean arterial blood pressures by 5-12.5% at 3 hours after packed red blood cell transfusions were observed, while renal near-infrared spectroscopy increased by 6.2% post-transfusion. No significant changes in ventilation, vasoactive support, or laboratory values related to oxygen balance were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Packed red blood cell transfusions given after the arterial switch operation increased arterial blood pressure by 5-12.5% for 3 hours and renal near-infrared spectroscopy by 6.2%. High-frequency data capture systems can be leveraged to provide novel insights into the hemodynamic response to commonly used therapies such as packed red blood cell transfusions after paediatric cardiac surgery.

Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery

BACKGROUND

Although anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is associated with risk of sudden cardiac arrest, there is a spectrum of disease with the appropriate management for many remaining unclear. Increasing data warrants review for an updated perspective on management.

METHODS

A panel of congenital cardiac surgeons, cardiologists and imaging practitioners reviewed the current literature related to AAOCA and its management. Survey of relevant publications from 2010 to present in PubMed was performed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of AAOCA is 0.4-0.8%. Anomalous left coronary artery is 3-8 times less common than anomalous right coronary, but carrries a much higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Nevertheless, anomalous right coronary is not completely benign with 10% demonstrating ischemia and remains an important cause of sudden cardiac arrest. Decision-making regarding which patients should be recommended for surgical intervention includes determining anatomic features associated with ischemia, evidence of ischemia on provocative testing, and/or concerning cardiovascular symptoms. Ischemia testing continues to prove challenging with low sensitivity and specificity, but the utility of new modalities is an active area of research. Surgical interventions focus on creating an unobstructed path for blood flow and choosing the appropriate surgical technique given the anatomy to accomplish this. Non-trivial morbidity has been reported with surgery, including new onset ischemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with AAOCA, a proportion demonstrate features and/or ischemia that warrant surgical intervention. Continued work remains to improve the ability to detect inducible ischemia, risk stratify these patients, and provide guidance in terms of which patients warrant surgical intervention.

Evaluating variation in pre-operative evaluation and planning for children undergoing atrial or ventricular septal defect repair

BACKGROUND

CHD care is resource-intensive. Unwarranted variation in care may increase cost and result in poorer health outcomes. We hypothesise that process variation exists within the pre-operative evaluation and planning process for children undergoing repair of atrial septal defect or ventricular septal defect and that substantial variation occurs in a small number of care points.

METHODS

From interviews with staff of an integrated congenital heart centre, an initial process map was constructed. A retrospective chart review of patients with isolated surgical atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect repair from 7/1/2018 through 11/1/2020 informed revisions of the process map. The map was assessed for points of consistency and variability.

RESULTS

Thirty-two surgical atrial septal defect/ventricular septal defect repair patients were identified. Ten (31%) were reviewed by interventional cardiology before surgical review. Of these, 6(60%) had a failed catheter-based closure and 4 (40%) were deemed inappropriate for catheter-based closure. Thirty (94%) were reviewed in case conference, all attended surgical clinic, and none were admitted prior to surgery. The process map from interviews alone identified surgery rescheduling as a point of major variability; however, chart review revealed this was not as prominent a source of variability as pre-operative interventional cardiology review.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant variation in the pre-operative evaluation and planning process for surgical atrial septal defect/ventricular septal defect patients was identified. If such process variation is widespread through CHD care, it may contribute to variations in outcome and cost previously documented within CHD surgery. Future research will focus on determining whether the variation is warranted or unwarranted, associated health outcomes and cost variation attributed to these variations in care processes.

The journey of becoming a congenital heart surgeon: Too long, too costly, too unpredictable

OBJECTIVE

The pathway to become a congenital heart surgeon (CHS) is challenging and unpredictable. Previous voluntary manpower surveys have shed partial light on this problem but have not included all trainees. We believe that this arduous journey merits more attention.

METHODS

To examine the real-life challenges of recent participants in Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited CHS training programs, we conducted phone interviews with all graduates of approved programs from 2021 to 2022. This institutional review board approved survey focused on issues including preparation, length of training, debt burden, and employment.

RESULTS

All 22 (100%) graduates during the study period were interviewed. Age at fellowship completion was a median 37 years (range, 33-45 years). Pathways to fellowship included traditional general surgery with adult cardiac (43%), abbreviated general surgery ("4 + 3," 19%) and integrated-6 (38%). Time spent on any pediatric related rotation before CHS fellowship was a median 4 months (range, 1-10 months). During CHS fellowship, graduates reported medians of 100 (range, 75-170) total cases and 8 (range, 0-25) neonatal cases as the primary surgeon. Debt burden at completion was a median of $179,000 (range, $0-$550,000). Maximal financial compensation during training before and during CHS fellowship were medians of $65,000 (range, $50,000-$100,000) and $80,000 (range, $65,000-$165,000), respectively. Six (27.3%) are currently in roles in which they cannot practice independently (5 [22.7%] faculty instructors, 1 [4.5%] CHS clinical fellowship). Median salary in first job is $450,000 (range, $80,000-$700,000).

CONCLUSIONS

Graduates of CHS fellowships are old, and training is highly variable. Aptitude screening and pediatric-focused preparation are minimal. Debt burden is onerous. Further attention to refining training paradigms and compensation are justified.

Management of Adults With Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Coronary Arteries: State-of-the-Art Review

As a result of increasing adoption of imaging screening, the number of adult patients with a diagnosis of anomalous aortic origin of the coronary arteries (AAOCA) has grown in recent years. Existing guidelines provide a framework for management and treatment, but patients with AAOCA present with a wide range of anomalies and symptoms that make general recommendations of limited applicability. In particular, a large spectrum of interventions can be used for treatment, and there is no consensus on the optimal approach to be used. In this paper, a multidisciplinary group of clinical and interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons performed a systematic review and critical evaluation of the available evidence on the interventional treatment of AAOCA in adult patients. Using a structured Delphi process, the group agreed on expert recommendations that are intended to complement existing clinical practice guidelines.

Management of Adults With Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Coronary Arteries: State-of-the-Art Review

As a result of increasing adoption of imaging screening, the number of adult patients with a diagnosis of anomalous aortic origin of the coronary arteries (AAOCA) has grown in recent years. Existing guidelines provide a framework for management and treatment, but patients with AAOCA present with a wide range of anomalies and symptoms that make general recommendations of limited applicability. In particular, a large spectrum of interventions can be used for treatment, and there is no consensus on the optimal approach to be used. In this paper, a multidisciplinary group of clinical and interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons performed a systematic review and critical evaluation of the available evidence on the interventional treatment of AAOCA in adult patients. Using a structured Delphi process, the group agreed on expert recommendations that are intended to complement existing clinical practice guidelines.

Trisomy 18: disparities of care and outcomes in the State of Texas between 2009 and 2019

OBJECTIVE

To perform a statewide characteristics and outcomes analysis of the Trisomy 18 (T18) population and explore the potential impact of associated congenital heart disease (CHD) and congenital heart surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of the Texas Hospital Inpatient Discharge Public Use Data File between 2009 and 2019, analysing discharges of patients with T18 identified using ICD-9/10 codes. Discharges were linked to analyse patients. Demographic characteristics and available outcomes were evaluated. The population was divided into groups for comparison: patients with no documentation of CHD (T18NoCHD), patients with CHD without congenital heart surgery (T18CHD), and patients who underwent congenital heart surgery (T18CHS).

RESULTS

One thousand one hundred fifty-six eligible patients were identified: 443 (38%) T18NoCHD, 669 (58%) T18CHD, and 44 (4%) T18CHS. T18CHS had a lower proportion of Hispanic patients (n = 9 (20.45%)) compared to T18CHD (n = 315 (47.09%)), and T18NoCHD (n = 219 (49.44%)) (p < 0.001 for both). Patients with Medicare/Medicaid insurance had a 0.42 odds ratio (95%CI: 0.20-0.86, p = 0.020) of undergoing congenital heart surgery compared to private insurance. T18CHS had a higher median total days in-hospital (47.5 [IQR: 12.25-113.25] vs. 9 [IQR: 3-24] and 2 [IQR: 1-5], p < 0.001); and a higher median number of admissions (n = 2 [IQR: 1-4]) vs. 1 [IQR: 1-2] and 1 [IQR: 1-1], (p < 0.001 for both). However, the post-operative median number of admissions for T18CHS was 0 [IQR: 0-2]. After the first month of life, T18CHS had freedom from in-hospital mortality similar to T18NoCHD and superior to T18CHD.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term outcomes for T18CHS patients are encouraging, suggesting a freedom from in-hospital mortality that resembles the T18NoCHD. The highlighted socio-economic differences between the groups warrant further investigation. Development of a prospective registry for T18 patients should be a priority for better understanding of longer-term outcomes.

Experiences and insights from partners of individuals with single-ventricle CHD: a pilot qualitative research study

INTRODUCTION

With advances in care, an increasing number of individuals with single-ventricle CHD are surviving into adulthood. Partners of individuals with chronic illness have unique experiences and challenges. The goal of this pilot qualitative research study was to explore the lived experiences of partners of individuals with single-ventricle CHD.

METHODS

Partners of patients ≥18 years with single-ventricle CHD were recruited and participated in Experience Group sessions and 1:1 interviews. Experience Group sessions are lightly moderated groups that bring together individuals with similar circumstances to discuss their lived experiences, centreing them as the experts. Formal inductive qualitative coding was performed to identify salient themes.

RESULTS

Six partners of patients participated. Of these, four were males and four were married; all were partners of someone of the opposite sex. Themes identified included uncertainty about their partners' future health and mortality, becoming a lay CHD specialist, balancing multiple roles, and providing positivity and optimism. Over time, they took on a role as advocates for their partners and as repositories of medical history to help navigate the health system. Despite the uncertainties, participants described championing positivity and optimism for the future.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first-of-its-kind pilot study, partners of individuals with single-ventricle CHD expressed unique challenges and experiences in their lives. There is a tacit need to design strategies to help partners cope with those challenges. Further larger-scale research is required to better understand the experiences of this unique population.

Hospitalisations of children and adults with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome in Texas from 2009 to 2019

INTRODUCTION

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome accounts for a significant proportion of CHD morbidity and mortality, despite improvements in care and improved survival. This study evaluates number of, reasons for, and trends in discharges of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome over 11 years in Texas.

METHODS

The Texas Inpatient Discharge Dataset Public Use File captures almost all discharges in Texas and was reviewed from 2009 to 2019. Discharges of patients ≥5 years of age and diagnosis codes for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome were included. The admitting and principle diagnoses were categorised and all discharges were evaluated for procedures performed. Descriptive and univariate statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 1024 discharges were identified with a 16.9% annual increase over the study period. Median length of stay was 4 [IQR: 2-8] and there were 17 (1.7%) in-hospital mortalities with no differences across age groups. Seven (17.1%) discharges of patients 25+ years were uninsured, higher than other age groups (p < 0.001). The most common admitting diagnosis was CHD and 224 (21.9%) of discharges included a procedure, including 23 heart transplants. Discharges occurred from 67 different hospitals with 4 (6.0%) representing 71.4% of all discharges.

CONCLUSIONS

Discharges of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome have increased rapidly, particularly in the older age groups and were spread over a large number of hospitals. Further work is needed to understand the interplay between Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and other conditions and care experiences that occur within the general population, which will become more common as this population ages and grows.

Pacemaker Management and In-Hospital Outcomes in Neonatal Congenital Atrioventricular Block

BACKGROUND

Neonatal congenital atrioventricular block (nCAVB) is rare, causes bradycardia, confers high mortality, and frequently requires pacing. In-hospital outcomes and pacemaker management in nCAVB are limited.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to analyze pacing and outcomes of nCAVB with and without congenital heart disease (CHD) using a multicenter database.

METHODS

A Pediatric Health Information System database review from January 1, 2004, to June 30, 2022. Patients <31 days of age with a nCAVB International Classification of Diseases-9th/10th Revision diagnosis code and no cardiac surgeries except pacemaker were included. Pacing and in-hospital mortality were analyzed using univariate and multivariable logistic statistics and competing risk and event-free survival models.

RESULTS

Of 1,146 patients with nCAVB, 659 (57.5%) were girls and 506 (44.2%) were premature. Among the 326 (28.4%) with CHD, 134 (41.1%) underwent pacemaker insertion as initial intervention and 56 (17.2%) had temporary pacing wires. In-hospital mortality occurred in 118 (36.2%), with increased adjusted odds with temporary pacing wires placed at 0 to 1 or 2 to 7 days of age relative to no wires, and with decreased odds among pacemakers placed at 2 to 7 or 8+ days of age relative to no pacemaker. Of 820 (71.6%) without CHD, 334 (40.7%) underwent pacemaker insertion as the initial intervention and 81 (9.9%) had temporary pacing wires. In-hospital mortality occurred in 69 (8.4%) with increased adjusted odds in prematurity and decreased odds among pacemaker placement at 2 to 7 days of age relative to no pacemaker.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 18.5 years, in-hospital mortality occurred in 36.2% of nCAVB patients with CHD and 8.4% with non-CHD. Associations with increased in-hospital mortality included CHD and prematurity and decreased with pacemaker placement. Prospective registries are needed to better characterize and standardize management of this rare but high-mortality disease.

Outcomes of thoracic aortic interventions in Marfan syndrome in the state of Texas over 11 years

OBJECTIVES

Marfan syndrome is a heritable connective tissue disorder with significant aortopathy and conveys substantial cardiovascular morbidity. This study characterizes the mortality and morbidities of thoracic aortic interventions (TAI) in the Marfan syndrome population in the state of Texas from 2009 to 2019.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the Texas Inpatient Discharge Dataset from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2019. Discharges from acute care hospitals with a Marfan syndrome diagnosis by the International Classification of Diseases 9/10 codes and a procedure code for TAI were analysed utilizing descriptive, univariate and multivariable regression statistics.

RESULTS

There were 4641 Marfan syndrome discharges identified, of whom 644 (13.9%) underwent TAI. Thoracic or thoraco-abdominal aortic dissection or rupture was noted in 223 (34.6%). Thirty-three (5.1%) had a concomitant coronary artery intervention. There were 30 (4.7%) in-hospital mortalities, 126 (19.6%) diagnoses of acute renal failure (ARF), 52 (8.1%) had mechanical ventilation >96 h and the median length of stay was 10 [interquartile range (IQR) 7-16] days. After adjustment, concomitant coronary artery intervention was associated with in-hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR) 3.69 [IQR 1.15-11.90], P = 0.029] and ARF (OR 2.66 [IQR 1.19-5.94], P = 0.017). Aortic dissections/ruptures were associated with ARF (OR 1.73 [IQR 1.14-2.63], P = 0.010), ventilation >96 h (OR 2.19 [IQR 1.21-3.97], P = 0.010), and 15% longer length of stay (95% confidence interval 2.4-29.1%, P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

TAI are frequent among the hospitalized Marfan Syndrome population. Concomitant coronary intervention is associated with increased risk of death and aortic dissections/ruptures are associated with increased morbidity. The high prevalence of aortic dissections/ruptures points to a potential target for improving imaging surveillance, adherence to treatment guidelines and preventative management of Marfan syndrome aortopathy.

Clinical Presentation and Medium-Term Outcomes of Children With Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Left Coronary Artery: High-Risk Features Beyond Interarterial Course

BACKGROUND

Anomalous aortic origin of the left coronary artery (AAOLCA) confers a rare, but significant, risk of sudden cardiac death in children. Surgery is recommended for interarterial AAOLCA, and other subtypes considered benign. We aimed to determine the clinical characteristics and outcomes of 3 AAOLCA subtypes.

METHODS

All patients with AAOLCA <21 years old were prospectively enrolled (December 2012-November 2020), including group 1: AAOLCA from the right aortic sinus with interarterial course, group 2: AAOLCA from the right aortic sinus with intraseptal course, and group 3: AAOLCA with a juxtacommissural origin between the left and noncoronary aortic sinus. Anatomic details were assessed using computed tomography angiography. Provocative stress testing (exercise stress testing and stress perfusion imaging) was performed in patients >8 years old or younger if concerning symptoms. Surgery was recommended for group 1 and in select cases in group 2 and group 3.

RESULTS

We enrolled 56 patients (64% males) with AAOLCA (group 1, 27; group 2, 20; group 3, 9) at median age of 12 years (interquartile range, 6-15). Intramural course was common in group 1 (93%) compared with group 3 (56%) and group 2 (10%). Seven (13%) presented with aborted sudden cardiac death (group 1, 6/27; group 3, 1/9); 1 (group 3) with cardiogenic shock. Fourteen/42 (33%) had inducible ischemia on provocative testing (group 1, 32%; group 2, 38%; group 3, 29%). Surgery was recommended in 31/56 (56%) patients (group 1, 93%; group 2, 10%; and group 3, 44%). Surgery was performed in 25 patients at a median age 12 (interquartile range, 7-15) years; all have been asymptomatic and free from exercise restrictions at median follow-up of 4 (interquartile range, 1.4-6.3) years.

CONCLUSIONS

Inducible ischemia was noted in all 3 AAOLCA subtypes while most aborted sudden cardiac deaths occurred in interarterial AAOLCA (group 1). Aborted sudden cardiac death and cardiogenic shock may occur in AAOLCA with left/nonjuxtacommissural origin and intramural course, thus also deemed high-risk. A systematic approach is essential to adequately risk stratify this population.

Anomalous Aortic Origin of Coronary Arteries in Children: Postoperative High-risk Anatomic Features

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess postoperative presumed high-risk anatomic features (HRAFs) by using computed tomographic angiography (CTA) in patients with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) after surgical unroofing vs transection and reimplantation (TAR) if unroofing was thought to provide unsatisfactory results.

METHODS

The study included 62 children with postoperative CTA performed at a median of 3 months (interquartile range, 3-4 months) after unroofing (n = 45) and TAR (n = 17). HRAFs included slitlike ostium, intramural course, acute angle takeoff (<45^o), interarterial course, proximal stenosis >50%, or course through a thickened intercoronary pillar.

RESULTS

Median age at surgery was 13.8 years (interquartile range, 10.5-15.8 years). None of the patients had a slitlike ostium or an intramural course on postoperative CTA. Acute takeoff was seen in 100% after unroofing and in 2 of 17 (12%) after TAR (P < .001). After unroofing, the interarterial course improved to 35 of 45 (78%) from 43 of 45 (96%) (P = .003), and a thickened intercoronary pillar improved to 10 of 45 (22%) from 22 of 45 (49%) (P = .0001), compared with none seen after TAR. Preoperative intramural length <5 mm was associated with a postoperative thickened intercoronary pillar in right AAOCA after unroofing (P = .0004). Severe coronary stenosis occurred in 2 of 17 (12%) after TAR, and both patients needed urgent revision procedures. All patients except 2 (97%) returned to exercise activities at a median follow-up of 4.9 years (range, 0.6-9.2 years).

CONCLUSIONS

The slitlike ostium and intramural course resolved in all patients. Residual acute angle takeoff, an interarterial course, and mild coronary narrowing related to a thickened intercoronary pillar were common after unroofing. TAR allows resolution of all HRAFs, although severe narrowing requiring surgical revision happened only in TAR. Long-term studies are needed to understand the clinical significance of these residual presumed HRAFs.

Ischemia in Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Right Coronary Artery: Large Pediatric Cohort Medium-Term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Anomalous aortic origin of a right coronary artery may cause myocardial ischemia and sudden death in the young. Data on myocardial ischemia or longitudinal outcomes are sparse in pediatric anomalous aortic origin of a right coronary artery population.

METHODS

Patients <21 years with anomalous aortic origin of a right coronary artery were prospectively enrolled. Computerized tomography angiography defined morphology. Exercise stress test and stress perfusion imaging (sPI) were performed if >7 years or younger with concern for ischemia. High-risk features included intramural length, slit-like/hypoplastic ostium, exertional symptoms, or evidence of ischemia.

RESULTS

A total of 220 patients (60% males) were enrolled December 2012 to April 2020 at a median age 11.4 years (interquartile range, 6.1-14.5), including 168 (76%) with no/nonexertional symptoms (group 1) and 52 (24%) with exertional chest pain/syncope (group 2). Computerized tomography angiography was available in 189/220 (86%), exercise stress test in 164/220 (75%), and sPI in 169/220 (77%). Exercise stress test was positive in 2/164 (1.2%) patients in group 1, both had positive sPI. Inducible ischemia (sPI) was detected in 11/120 (9%) in group 1 and 9/49 (18%) in group 2 (P=0.09). Intramural length was similar in patients with/without ischemia (5 [interquartile range, 4-7] versus 5 [interquartile range, 4-7] mm; P=0.65). Surgery was recommended in 56/220 (26%) patients with high-risk features. In 52 surgical patients (38 unroofing, 14 reimplantation), all subjects were alive and have returned to exercise at last median follow-up of 4.6 (interquartile range, 2.3-6.5) years.

CONCLUSIONS

Anomalous aortic origin of a right coronary artery patients can present with inducible ischemia on sPI despite symptoms or intramural length. Exercise stress test is a poor predictor of ischemia and caution should be given to determine low-risk based solely on this assessment. All patients are alive at medium-term follow-up.

Examining the Real-Life Journey of Individuals and Families Affected by Single-Ventricle Congenital Heart Disease

Background The lifetime journey of patients with single-ventricle congenital heart disease is characterized by long-term challenges that are incompletely understood and still unfolding. Health care redesign requires a thorough understanding of this journey to create and implement solutions that improve outcomes. This study maps the lifetime journey of individuals with single-ventricle congenital heart disease and their families, identifies the most meaningful outcomes to them, and defines significant challenges in the journey. Methods and Results This qualitative research study involved experience group sessions and 1:1 interviews of patients, parents, siblings, partners, and stakeholders. Journey maps were created. The most meaningful outcomes to patients and parents and significant gaps in care were identified across the life journey. A total of 142 participants from 79 families and 28 stakeholders were included. Lifelong and life-stage specific journey maps were created. The most meaningful outcomes to patients and parents were identified and categorized using a "capability (doing the things in life you want to), comfort (experience of physical/emotional pain/distress), and calm (experiencing health care with the least impact on daily life)" framework. Gaps in care were identified and classified into areas of ineffective communication, lack of seamless transitions, lack of comprehensive support, structural deficiencies, and insufficient education. Conclusions There are significant gaps in care during the lifelong journey of individuals with single-ventricle congenital heart disease and their families. A thorough understanding of this journey is a critical first step in developing initiatives to redesign care around their needs and priorities. This approach can be used for people with other forms of congenital heart disease and other chronic conditions. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04613934.

Pericardial Effusions After the Arterial Switch Operation: A PHIS Database Review

Background: Pericardial effusion (PCE) is a significant complication after pediatric cardiac surgery. This study investigates PCE development after the arterial switch operation (ASO) and its short-term and longitudinal impacts. Methods: A retrospective review of the Pediatric Health Information System database. Patients with dextro-transposition of the great arteries who underwent ASO from January 1, 2004, to March 31, 2022, were identified. Patients with and without PCE were analyzed with descriptive, univariate, and multivariable regression statistics. Results: There were 4896 patients identified with 300 (6.1%) diagnosed with PCE. Thirty-five (11.7%) with PCE underwent pericardiocentesis. There were no differences in background demographics or concomitant procedures between those who developed PCE and those who did not. Patients who developed PCE more frequently had acute renal failure (N = 56 (18.7%) vs N = 603(13.1%), P = .006), pleural effusions (N = 46 (15.3%) vs N = 441 (9.6%), P = .001), mechanical circulatory support (N = 26 (8.7%) vs N = 199 (4.3%), P < .001), and had longer postoperative length of stay (15 [11-24.5] vs 13 [IQR: 9-20] days). After adjustment for additional factors, pleural effusions (OR = 1.7 [95% CI: 1.2-2.4]), and mechanical circulatory support (OR = 1.81 [95% CI: 1.15-2.85]) conferred higher odds of PCE. There were 2298 total readmissions, of which 46 (2%) had PCE, with no difference in median readmission rate for patients diagnosed with PCE at index hospitalization (median 0 [IQR: 0-1] vs 0 [IQR: 0-0], P = .208). Conclusions: PCE occurred after 6.1% of ASO and was associated with pleural effusions and mechanical circulatory support. PCE is associated with morbidity and prolonged length of stay; however, there was no association with in-hospital mortality or readmissions.

Decision making in anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery

INTRODUCTION

There are many uncertainties surrounding anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) including the pathophysiology of sudden cardiac death, how to best risk stratify patients, how to best evaluate patients, who would benefit from exercise restriction, who should undergo surgical intervention, and which operation to perform.

AREAS COVERED

The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive but succinct overview of AAOCA to help clinicians with the difficult task of navigating optimal evaluation and treatment of an individual patient with AAOCA.

EXPERT OPINION

Beginning in year 2012, some of our authors proposed an integrated, multi-disciplinary working group which has become the standard management strategy for patients diagnosed with AAOCA. A multi-disciplinary team with a focus on shared decision-making with the patients/families is likely necessary to optimize outcomes. Long-term follow-up and research are needed to improve our understanding of AAOCA.

Is Exercise Stress Testing Useful for Risk Stratification in Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery?

Data on maximal exercise-stress-testing (m-EST) in anomalous-aortic-origin-of-coronary-arteries (AAOCA) is limited and correlation with stress perfusion imaging has not been demonstrated. AAOCA patients ≤20 years were prospectively enrolled from 6/2014-01/2020. A m-EST was defined as heart rate >85%ile on ECG-EST and respiratory-exchange-ratio ≥1.05 on cardiopulmonary-exercise-testing (CPET). Abnormal m-EST included significant ST-changes or high-grade arrhythmia, V̇O2max and/or O2 pulse <85% predicted, or abnormal O2 pulse curve. A (+) dobutamine-stress cardiac-magnetic-resonance-imaging (+DS-CMR) had findings of inducible-ischemia. Outcomes: (1) Differences in m-EST based on AAOCA-type; (2) Assuming DS-CMR as gold-standard for detection of inducible ischemia, determine agreement between m-EST and DS-CMR. A total of 155 AAOCA (right, AAORCA = 126; left, AAOLCA = 29) patients with a median (IQR) age of 13 (11-15) years were included; 63% were males and a m-EST was completed in 138 (89%). AAORCA and AAOLCA had similar demographic and m-EST characteristics, although AAOLCA had more frequently evidence of inducible ischemia on m-EST (P = 0.006) and DS-CMR (P = 0.007). Abnormal O2 pulse was significantly associated with +DS-CMR (OR 5.3, 95% CI 1.6-18,P = 0.005). Sensitivity was increased with addition of CPET to ECG-EST (to 58% from 19%). There was no agreement between m-EST and DS-CMR for detection of inducible ischemia. A m-EST has very low sensitivity for detection of inducible ischemia in AAOCA, and sensitivity is increased with addition of CPET. Stress perfusion abnormalities on DS-CMR were notconcordant with m-EST findings and adjunctive testing should be considered for clinical decision making in AAOCA.

Arrhythmias Requiring ECMO in Infants Without Structural Congenital Heart Disease

Arrhythmias account for 55 per 100,000 patient evaluations in pediatric emergency departments. Most arrhythmias in children are amenable to medical management or cardioversion. Rarely, arrhythmias lead to significant hemodynamic instability requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. This study seeks to evaluate children under 1 year of age with a structurally normal heart requiring ECMO for an arrhythmia. This is a retrospective review of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry. All patients less than 1 year of age between 2009 and 2019 with a diagnosis of arrhythmia and without a diagnosis of structural heart malformation were included. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were assessed with descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariable analyses. A total of 140 eligible patients were identified from the dataset. The most common arrhythmia was supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in 70 (50%) patients. ECMO complications occurred in 106 (76.3%) patients and survival to discharge was achieved in 120 (85.7%) patients. In-hospital mortality was associated with neuromuscular blockade prior to ECMO [aOR 10.0 (95% CI 2.95-41.56), p < 0.001], neurologic ECMO complication [aOR 28.1 (95% CI 6.6-155.1), p < 0.001], and race with white race being protective [aOR 0.13, (95% CI 0.02-0.21), p = 0.002]. Similar survival and complication rates were found in subgroup analysis of SVT arrhythmias alone. Arrhythmias necessitating ECMO support in infants without structural congenital heart disease is a rare occurrence. However, survival to hospital discharge is favorable at greater than 85%. Given the favorable survival, earlier and more aggressive utilization of ECMO may result in improved outcomes.

Aortic dissection and ruptures in adult congenital heart disease in Texas from 2009 to 2019

OBJECTIVES

Acute thoracic aortic dissection and rupture (TADR) has an incidence of 5-7 per 100 000-person years. Today, most children with congenital heart disease (CHD) survive to become adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). This study evaluates TADR in patients with ACHD in a large, hospitalized patient population over 11 years to evaluate the incidence, risk factors and outcomes associated with TADR.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of the Texas Inpatient Discharge Data Set from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2019. All non-trauma discharges of patients ≥18 years were included. ACHD discharges were identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th edition (ICD-9)/10 diagnosis codes. TADR were identified using 2 definitions: TADR1 is an ICD-9/10 code for TADR, and TADR2 is TADR1 with an ICD-9/10 procedure code for aortic intervention. Descriptive, univariate and logistic regression statistics were used.

RESULTS

A total of 22 154 664 eligible discharges were identified, of which 12 584 (0.06%) were TADR1 and a subgroup of 5699 (0.03%) were TADR2. CHD was more prevalent in TADR1 (0.2% vs 0.05%; P < 0.001) and TADR2 (0.3% vs 0.04%; P < 0.001). Adjusting for known TADR risk factors, CHD had an odds ratio of 1.69 (95% confidence interval: 1.09-2.63; P = 0.020) for TADR1 and an odds ratio of 1.69 (95% confidence interval: 0.99-2.88; P = 0.056) for TADR2. No in-hospital deaths were found in patients with CHD with TADR.

CONCLUSIONS

ACHD discharges had a higher frequency of TADR versus the general population (0.9-1.2 vs 0.3-0.6 per 1000 discharges). There is an indication that CHD confers an increased adjusted odds of TADR. As the ACHD population continues to grow in number as well as age, it will be important to continue to assess the risk of TADR from CHD and how traditional risk factors impact this risk.

Accuracy of computed tomography angiography and structured reporting of high-risk morphology in anomalous aortic origin of coronary artery: comparison with surgery

BACKGROUND

Morphological features including interarterial course, intramural course, high ostial location and slit-like ostium are presumed risk factors for sudden cardiac death in children with anomalous aortic origin of the coronary artery (AAOCA). To facilitate clinical risk stratification, the diagnostic accuracy of CT angiography for individual risk factors in the setting of AAOCA must be established.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed diagnostic accuracy of standardized CT angiography interpretation for morphological characteristics that might determine risk in children with AAOCA by comparing them to surgical findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We created a standardized protocol for CT angiography of AAOCA and retrospectively evaluated diagnostic performance in 25 consecutive surgical patients. Relevant morphological variables in AAOCA were assessed by three independent blinded readers, with surgery as the reference standard. We used Cohen kappa coefficients and accuracies to assess agreement between readers and surgical findings, and we calculated intraclass correlation coefficients to compare length of the intramural course.

RESULTS

CT angiography correctly identified AAOCA in all patients. For the three readers, accuracies for detecting ostial stenosis were 84%, 94% and 96%; for high ostial origin, accuracies were 76%, 78% 82%; for intramurality using the peri-coronary fat sign, accuracies were 98%, 96% and 92%; and for intramurality using oval shape of coronary artery, accuracies were 98%, 94% and 92%. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for predicting intramural length among the three readers were 0.67, 0.75 and 0.81 using peri-coronary fat, and 0.69, 0.50 and 0.81 using oval shape, respectively.

CONCLUSION

CT angiography reliably identified AAOCA in all children and detected the presence of intramurality with high accuracy.

Assessment of transfer of morphological characteristics of Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery from imaging to patient specific 3D Printed models: A feasibility study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine the accuracy of patient specific 3D printed models in capturing pathological anatomical characteristics derived from CT angiography (CTA) in children with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA).

METHODS & MATERIALS

Following institutional regulatory approval, a standardized protocol for CTA of AAOCA was utilized for imaging. Blood volume of the aorta and coronaries were segmented from the DICOM images. A total of 10 models from 8 AAOCA patients were created, including 2 post-operative models. Mechanical properties of Agilus30 a flexible photopolymer coated with a thin layer of parylene, polyurethane (PU) and silicone and native aortic tissue from a postmortem specimen were compared. AAOCA models with wall thicknesses of 2mm aorta and 1.5mm coronaries were 3D printed in Agilus30 and coated with PU. CT of the printed models was performed, and 3D virtual models were generated. Transfer of anatomical characteristics and geometric accuracy were compared between the patient model virtual models.

RESULTS

Dynamic modulus of Agilus30 at 2mm thickness was found to be close to native aortic tissue. Structured reporting of anatomical characteristics by imaging experts showed good concordance between patient and model CTA Comparative patient and virtual model measurements showed Pearson's correlation (r) of 0.9959 for aorta (n=70) and 0.9538 for coronaries (n=60) linear, and 0.9949 for aorta (n=30) and 0.9538 for coronaries (n=30) cross-sectional, dimensions. Surface contour map mean difference was 0.08 ± 0.29mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Geometrically accurate AAOCA models preserving morphological characteristics, essential for risk stratification and decision-making, can be 3D printed from a patient's CTA.

Decreased Quality of Life in Children With Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery

BACKGROUND

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is associated with sudden death in the young. We sought to determine quality of life (QOL) in patients/families affected by AAOCA.

METHODS

Patients with AAOCA (8-18 years) were prospectively included from January 2016 to May 2017. Parent proxy and patient Pediatric Cardiac Quality of Life Inventory (PCQLI) were used to evaluate QOL and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Family Impact Module to assess the impact of AAOCA on families, as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included peer relationship, anxiety, and depression assessed using patient-reported outcomes measurement information system. Patients deemed high-risk were offered surgery/exercise restriction. Generalized linear mixed regression models were used to determine significant predictors of outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients, the majority (n = 31, 59%) unrepaired, and 49 caregivers were included. Using PCQLI, patient and parent proxy QOL scores were similar to published scores for children with long-QT syndrome. Patients' QOL score was associated with exertional symptoms, perceived chronic disease, and altered parent's concentration ability. Likewise, parent proxy QOL scores were associated with mother's living situation, exertional symptoms, parent missing work for ≥1 day, and disturbed parental functioning at work. Family impact scores were associated with lower maternal education, among other measures. Risk categories or surgical status did not impact patient, parent proxy reported, or family impact QOL.

CONCLUSION

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery is associated with decreased QOL as perceived by patients and caregiver and is associated with numerous facets of family functioning. These findings are independent of risk categorization or surgical status.

Updating an Empirically Based Tool for Analyzing Congenital Heart Surgery Mortality

OBJECTIVES

STAT Mortality Categories (developed 2009) stratify congenital heart surgery procedures into groups of increasing mortality risk to characterize case mix of congenital heart surgery providers. This update of the STAT Mortality Score and Categories is empirically based for all procedures and reflects contemporary outcomes.

METHODS

Cardiovascular surgical operations in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Congenital Heart Surgery Database (January 1, 2010 - June 30, 2017) were analyzed. In this STAT 2020 Update of the STAT Mortality Score and Categories, the risk associated with a specific combination of procedures was estimated under the assumption that risk is determined by the highest risk individual component procedure. Operations composed of multiple component procedures were eligible for unique STAT Scores when the statistically estimated mortality risk differed from that of the highest risk component procedure. Bayesian modeling accounted for small denominators. Risk estimates were rescaled to STAT 2020 Scores between 0.1 and 5.0. STAT 2020 Category assignment was designed to minimize within-category variation and maximize between-category variation.

RESULTS

Among 161,351 operations at 110 centers (19,090 distinct procedure combinations), 235 types of single or multiple component operations received unique STAT 2020 Scores. Assignment to Categories resulted in the following distribution: STAT 2020 Category 1 includes 59 procedure codes with model-based estimated mortality 0.2% to 1.3%; Category 2 includes 73 procedure codes with mortality estimates 1.4% to 2.9%; Category 3 includes 46 procedure codes with mortality estimates 3.0% to 6.8%; Category 4 includes 37 procedure codes with mortality estimates 6.9% to 13.0%; and Category 5 includes 17 procedure codes with mortality estimates 13.5% to 38.7%. The number of procedure codes with empirically derived Scores has grown by 58% (235 in STAT 2020 vs 148 in STAT 2009). Of the 148 procedure codes with empirically derived Scores in 2009, approximately one-half have changed STAT Category relative to 2009 metrics. The New STAT 2020 Scores and Categories demonstrated good discrimination for predicting mortality in an independent validation sample (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2019; sample size 46,933 operations at 108 centers) with C-statistic = 0.791 for STAT 2020 Score and 0.779 for STAT 2020 Category.

CONCLUSIONS

The updated STAT metrics reflect contemporary practice and outcomes. New empirically based STAT 2020 Scores and Category designations are assigned to a larger set of procedure codes, while accounting for risk associated with multiple component operations. Updating STAT metrics based on contemporary outcomes facilitates accurate assessment of case mix.

Impact of Treatment Strategy on Outcomes in Isolated Pulmonary Artery of Ductal Origin

Isolated pulmonary artery (PA) of ductal origin (IPADO) is a rare cardiac defect which requires surgical repair, with or without preceding palliation. We sought to determine the impact of treatment strategy on outcomes. Retrospective study of consecutive patients with IPADO that underwent staged or primary repair from 1/05 to 9/16 at 6 Congenital Cardiac Research Collaborative centers. Patients with single ventricle physiology, major aortopulmonary collaterals, or bilateral IPADO were excluded. Primary outcome was isolated PA z-score at late follow-up. Secondary outcomes included PA symmetry index (isolated:confluent PA diameter) and reintervention burden. Propensity score adjustment was used to account for baseline differences. Of 60 patients in the study cohort, 26 (43%) underwent staged and 34 (57%) primary repair. The staged and primary repair groups differed in weight at diagnosis and presence of other heart disease but not in baseline PA dimensions. Staged patients underwent ductal stent (n = 16) or surgical shunt (n = 10) placement followed by repair at 210 vs. 21 days in the primary repair group (p < 0.001). At median follow-up of 4.5 years post-repair, after adjustment, isolated PA z-score (- 0.74 [- 1.75, - 0.26] vs. - 1.95 [- 2.91, - 1.59], p = 0.012) and PA symmetry index (0.81 [0.49, 1.0] vs. 0.55 [0.48, 0.69], p = 0.042) significantly favored the staged repair group. Freedom from PA reintervention was not different between groups (adjusted HR 0.78 [0.41, 1.48]; p = 0.445). A staged approach to repair of IPADO is associated with superior isolated PA size and symmetry at late follow-up. Consideration should be given to initial palliation in IPADO patients, when feasible.

Outcomes in anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery after surgical reimplantation

OBJECTIVE

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) can be associated with myocardial ischemia and sudden cardiac arrest. We compared outcomes data of patients who underwent transection and reimplantation (TAR) and patients who underwent an unroofing.

METHODS

Patients who presented to the Coronary Artery Anomalies Program were evaluated and managed following a standardized approach. Anatomy was determined using computed tomography angiography, myocardial perfusion using advanced stress imaging, and surgical intervention according to anatomic features.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients underwent surgical repair of AAOCA between 2012 and 2019: 16 (26%) patients underwent TAR of the anomalous coronary without an aortic button and 45 (74%) patients underwent coronary unroofing. Compared with patients who underwent an unroofing, patients who underwent TAR had similar intramural length (5 mm with interquartile range of 4-7.7 vs 6 mm with interquartile range of 5-7; P = .6). One patient with an anomalous right coronary underwent coronary artery bypass grafting after TAR because of persistent postoperative ischemic changes. One patient with unroofing of an anomalous left coronary artery presented with recurrent aborted sudden cardiac death and underwent subsequent TAR, without further events. At last follow-up, 15 of 16 patients (94%) who underwent TAR and 42 of 45 (93%) patients who underwent an unroofing were released to unrestricted exercise activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronary artery TAR is a useful surgical alternative for AAOCA when there is a course below the commissure, when unroofing does not relocate the ostium to the appropriate sinus, or when unroofing results in compression by the intercoronary pillar.

Impaired Myocardial Perfusion on Stress CMR Correlates With Invasive FFR in Children With Coronary Anomalies

BACKGROUND

Invasive fractional flow reserve (FFR) is considered the gold standard to evaluate coronary artery flow. Stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (sCMR) is an emerging non-invasive tool to evaluate myocardial perfusion in children. We sought to compare sCMR with FFR to determine impaired intracoronary flow in children with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) and/or myocardial bridge (MB) who presented concern for myocardial ischemia.

METHODS

From December 2012 to May 2019, AAOCA and/or MB patients (<20 years old) were prospectively enrolled and underwent sCMR and FFR. Abnormal sCMR included perfusion/regional wall-motion abnormality in the involved coronary distribution. FFR was performed at baseline and with dobutamine/regadenoson and considered abnormal if <0.8 in the affected coronary segment.

RESULTS

Of 376 patients evaluated, a total of 19 (age range, 0.2-17 years) underwent 24 sets of sCMR and FFR studies, with 5 repeat studies following intervention. Types of anomalies included 6 isolated MB/normal CA origins, 5 single CAs, 5 left AAOCAs, and 3 right AAOCAs. Seventeen patients (89.5%) had MB/intramyocardial course - 14 involving the left anterior descending coronary artery and 3 with multivessel involvement. sCMR correlated with FFR in 19/24 sets (7 sCMR and FFR positive, 12 sCMR and FFR negative) and it did not correlate in 5/24 sets. The positive percent agreement was 77.8%, negative percent agreement was 80.0%, and overall percent agreement was 79.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of myocardial perfusion using non-invasive sCMR concurred with FFR, particularly if performed with close proximity in time, and may contribute to risk stratification and decision making in children with AAOCA and/or MB.

Flow Dynamics in Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery in Children: Importance of the Intramural Segment

This study aims to assess the differences in pressure, fractional flow reserve (FFR) and coronary flow (with increasing pressure) of the proximal coronary artery in patients with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery with a confirmed ischemic event, without ischemic events, and before and after unroofing surgery, and compare to a patient with normal coronary arteries. Patient-specific flow models were 3D printed for 3 subjects with anomalous right coronary arteries with intramural course, 2 of them had documented ischemia, and compared with a patient with normal coronaries. The models were placed in the aortic position of a pulse duplicator and precise measurements to quantify FFR and coronary flow rate were performed from the aortic to the mediastinal segment of the anomalous right coronary artery. In an ischemic model, a gradual FFR drop (emulating that of pressure) was shown from the ostium location (∼1.0) to the distal intramural course (0.48). In nonischemic and normal patient models, FFR for all locations did not drop below 0.9. In a second ischemic model prior to repair, a drop to 0.44 was encountered at the intramural and mediastinal intersection, improving to 0.86 postrepair. There is a difference in instantaneous coronary flow rate with increasing aortic pressure in the ischemic models (slope 0.2846), compared to the postrepair and normal models (slope >0.53). These observations on patient models support a biomechanical basis for ischemia and potentially sudden cardiac death in aortic origin of a coronary artery, with a drop in pressure and FFR in the intramural segment, and a decrease in coronary flow rate with increasing aortic pressure, with both improving after corrective surgery.

Sickle Cell-Related Complications in Patients Undergoing Cardiopulmonary Bypass

BACKGROUND

We aimed to describe our experience with patients with sickle cell trait (SCT) and undergoing surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

METHODS

Data on all patients with SCT or sickle-α thalassemia who underwent surgery on CPB were collected (1996-2017).

RESULTS

Overall, 46 patients were included, 37 (80%) had SCT and 9 (20%) had sickle-α thalassemia. A total of 4 (9%) developed a potential sickle cell-related complication. Patients with sickle cell-related complications were significantly older (median 14 years vs 14 months, P = .037) and heavier (median 54 kg vs 9 kg, P = .041). Complications occurred, although without statistical significance, in patients who underwent longer median CPB times (249 minutes vs 137 minutes, P = .069), lower median temperature (31.7 °C vs 33.3 °C, P = .094), and a higher percentage underwent deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (50% vs 7%, P = .053). A total of 30 (65%) patients underwent exchange transfusion (ET) pre-bypass. Patients who underwent ET were significantly older (median 4 years vs 7 months, P = .003) and heavier (median 16 kg vs 6 kg, P = .015) than patients who did not undergo ET. The incidence of complications was comparable between patients who underwent ET (10%) and those who did not (6%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective, single-center study, it has been shown that cardiac surgery requiring CPB in patients with SCT and sickle-α thalassemia had a low risk for sickle cell-associated complications. In this cohort of patients, older age, longer CPB times, lower median temperature, and the utilization of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest appear to play an important role in the development of complications.

An Analysis of Hospital Mortality After Cardiac Operations in Children With Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome (DS) have lower mortality compared to nonsyndromic (NS) children after atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) repair. Limited data exist regarding hospital mortality and utilization after other congenital heart disease (CHD) operations in DS. We compared hospital mortality and utilization after CHD operations in both populations and hypothesized that the survival benefit in children with DS is not consistent across CHD lesions. The Texas Inpatient Public Use Datafile was queried for all patients <18 years old undergoing operations for CHD between 1999 and 2016. Hospital mortality, length-of-stay and charges were compared between DS and NS groups, stratified by CHD operation using mixed-effects multivariable analyses and propensity score matching analyses adjusting for prematurity, low birth weight, age, and sex. Over the 18-year period, 2841 cases with DS underwent CHD operations compared to 25,063 NS cases. The most common types of interventions performed in DS were AVSD repair, isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) repair and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) repair. By multivariable analyses, DS was associated with lower mortality after isolated AVSD repair (RR 0.40 [IQR 0.20-0.79]), and higher hospital mortality after bidirectional Glenn anastomosis (BDG) (RR 5.17 [IQR 2.10-12.77]) and TOF/pulmonary atresia repair (RR 9.71 [IQR 2.16-43.68]) compared to NS children. Similar results were noted using propensity score matching. Children with DS had lower mortality after AVSD repair than NS children, but higher mortality after operations for BDG and TOF/pulmonary atresia. Further study is needed to determine if the presence of pulmonary hypertension in DS modifies the association between DS and mortality depending on cardiac lesion.

Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio (iFR) Correlates With Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) Assessment of Coronary Artery Stenoses and Myocardial Bridges in Children

OBJECTIVES

Instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR) has been proven to correlate with coronary flow reserve better than fractional flow reserve (FFR) and is non-inferior to FFR in guiding coronary revascularization in ischemic heart disease. There has been no study validating the utility of iFR in children.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of clinically indicated cases in which both FFR and iFR were obtained at Texas Children's Hospital from July, 2016 to March, 2019. FFR and iFR were obtained at baseline. Adenosine FFR (FFRa) was used for assessment of coronary artery (CA) stenoses and diastolic dobutamine FFR (dFFRd) for myocardial bridges (MBs). FFRa or dFFRd ≤0.8 and iFR ≤0.89 indicated significant flow impairment.

RESULTS

A total of 22 coronary arteries (9 CA stenoses and 13 MBs) were assessed in 20 patients with median age of 13 years (range, 4-21 years) and median weight of 60 kg (range, 19-110 kg). iFR correlated with FFRa (Spearman's rho, 0.87; P<.01) in CA stenoses and with dFFRd (Spearman's rho, 0.74; P<.01) in MBs and agreed with FFR in 20/22 cases (90.9%). In 1 patient with CA stenosis and 1 MB with normal FFR, iFR was positive and both patients underwent coronary revascularization.

CONCLUSIONS

iFR correlated with FFR in the assessment of CA stenoses in children. iFR does not require administration of pharmacological agents; thus, it may reduce procedural time, cost, and complications, and result in more widespread adoption of invasive assessment of CA lesions in young patients.

Outcomes after anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery repair: A Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society Study

OBJECTIVES

It remains unclear when sudden cardiac event risk outweighs surgical risk for patients with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery. The Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society sought to characterize the surgical risks by determining the techniques, complications, and outcomes of repair.

METHODS

Between January 2000 and September 2018, 682 patients with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery aged 30 years or less were enrolled. Demographic, morphologic, operative, imaging, and ischemia-related data were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 395 of 682 (57%) surgical patients (45 centers, median follow-up 2.8 years). In addition to primary repair (87% unroofing, 26% commissural manipulation), 13 patients had 15 coronary-related reoperations. Of 358 patients with pre/postoperative aortic insufficiency assessment, 27 (8%) developed new mild or greater aortic insufficiency postoperatively, and 7 (2%) developed new moderate or greater aortic insufficiency. Freedom from mild aortic insufficiency differed in those with versus without commissural manipulation (85%/91% at 6 months, 83%/90% at 1 year, and 77%/88% at 3 years, respectively) (P = .05). Of 347 patients with preoperative/postoperative ejection fraction, 6 (2%) developed new abnormal ejection fraction (<50%) within 30 days of surgery which persisted. Although 64 of 395 patients (16%) had preoperative ischemia, after surgery 51 of 64 patients (80%) no longer had ischemia (13 = new postoperative ischemia, P < .0001). Four patients died postoperatively (preoperatively 2 asymptomatic, 1 symptomatic, 1 in extremis). Composite surgical adverse event rates were 7% to 13% in the entire cohort (increasing/decreasing by presentation/anatomy/repair strategy).

CONCLUSIONS

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery surgery may relieve ischemia with low mortality; however, it can result in a variety of important morbidities, varying by the group evaluated. Strategies avoiding commissural manipulation may decrease the risk of developing aortic insufficiency. Understanding these risks should inform surgical decision-making and support the need for standardized assessment and management.

Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery: Surgical Emergency?

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery is a congenital condition associated with sudden cardiac death. There are no current recommendations for the acute management and urgency for this patient population. This manuscript describes and discusses two patients who presented with an acute coronary event and needed emergent intervention despite initial clinical stabilization and improvement.

Myocardial Ischemia in Children With Anomalous Aortic Origin of a Coronary Artery With Intraseptal Course

Background:

Intraseptal anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery is considered a benign condition. However, there have been case reports of patients with myocardial ischemia, arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical presentation, myocardial perfusion on provocative stress testing, and management of children with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery with an intraseptal course in a prospective cohort.

Methods:

Patients with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery and intraseptal course were prospectively enrolled from December 2012 to May 2019, evaluated, and managed following a standardized algorithm. Myocardial perfusion was assessed using stress imaging. Fractional flow reserve was performed in patients with myocardial hypoperfusion on noninvasive testing. Exercise restriction, β-blockers, and surgical intervention were discussed with the families.

Results:

Eighteen patients (female 6, 33.3%), who presented with no symptoms (10, 55.6%), nonexertional (4, 22.2%), and exertional symptoms (4, 22.2%), were enrolled at a median age of 12.4 years (0.3–15.9). Perfusion imaging was performed in 14/18 (77.8%) and was abnormal in 7/14 (50%); fractional flow reserve was positive in 5/8 (62.5%). All 4 patients with exertional symptoms and 3/10 (30%) with no or nonexertional symptoms had myocardial hypoperfusion. Coronary artery bypass grafting was performed in a 4-year-old patient; β-blocker and exercise restriction were recommended in 4 patients not suitable for surgery. One patient had nonexertional chest pain and 17 were symptom-free at median follow-up of 2.5 years (0.2–7.1).

Conclusions:

Up to 50% of patients with intraseptal anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery had inducible myocardial hypoperfusion during noninvasive provocative testing. Long-term follow-up is necessary to understand the natural history of this rare anomaly.