Late Outcomes of Porcine and Pericardial Bioprostheses after Mitral Valve Replacement in 1162 Patients

BACKGROUND

Debate continues regarding the superiority of porcine versus pericardial bioprostheses, and data relevant to this comparison are scant. We therefore compare late survival and structural valve deterioration of porcine and pericardial mitral valve prostheses.

METHODS

Adults undergoing mitral valve replacement with one first-generation porcine valve model and one pericardial valve line were reviewed from our prospectively-maintained institutional database between 1976 and 2020. Multivariable regression and Cox proportional hazards analysis were used to compare late outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 1162 consecutive patients, 612 (53%) received porcine valves and 550 (47%) received pericardial valves. At 10 years, patient survival (porcine 36±2%, pericardial 38±3%, P=0.5) and cumulative incidence (CI) of mitral valve structural deterioration (porcine 18±2%, pericardial 19±3%, P=0.3) were similar. The structural failure mode was more likely severe mitral stenosis in pericardial valves (35/50(70%) versus 38/106(36%), P<0.001), and more likely severe mitral regurgitation in porcine valves (80/106(75%) versus 19/50(38%), P<0.0001). After adjustment, structural deterioration was associated with younger patient age (P<0.001), but not valve type. At 10 years, porcine valves demonstrated a higher CI of mitral reoperation (19±2% vs 9±2%, P<0.001) and reoperation for structural deterioration (15±1% vs 6±2%, P=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate similar rates of 10-year survival and structural deterioration with porcine and pericardial bioprosthetics in mitral valve replacement. This study suggests a lack of major improvement in durability of mitral bioprosthetic valves over time. Failure mode may have greater influence on surgeon decision-making of valve choice.

Long-term outcomes for hybrid aortic arch repair

OBJECTIVE

Since its inception in the early 2000s, hybrid arch repair (HAR) has evolved from novel approach to well-established treatment modality for aortic arch pathology in appropriately selected patients. Despite this nearly 20-year history of use, long-term results of HAR remain to be determined. As such, objectives of this study are to detail the long-term outcomes for HAR within an expanded classification scheme.

METHODS

From August 2005 to August 2022, 163 consecutive patients underwent HAR at a single referral institution. Operative approach was selected according to an institutional algorithm and included zone 0/1 HAR in 25% (n = 40), type I HAR in 34% (n = 56), and type II/III HAR in 41% (n = 67). Specific zone 0/1 technique was zone 1 HAR in 31 (78%), zone 0 with innominate snorkel (zone 0S HAR) in 7 (18%), and zone 0 with single side-branch endograft (zone 0B HAR) in 2 (5%). The 30-day and long-term outcomes, including overall and aortic-specific survival, as well as freedom from reintervention, were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean age was 63 ± 13 years and almost one-half of patients (47% [n = 77]) had prior sternotomy. Presenting pathology included degenerative aneurysm in 44% (n = 71), residual dissection after prior type A repair in 38% (n = 62), chronic type B dissection in 12% (n = 20), and other indications in 6% (n = 10). Operative outcomes included 9% mortality (n = 14) at 30 days, 5% mortality (n = 8) in hospital, 4% stroke (n = 7), 2% new dialysis (n = 3), and 2% permanent paraparesis/plegia (n = 3). The median follow-up was 44 month (interquartile range, 12-84 months). Overall survival was 59% and 47% at 5 and 10 years, respectively, whereas aorta-specific survival was 86% and 84% at the same time points. At 5 and 10 years, freedom from major reintervention was 92% and 91%, respectively. Institutional experience had a significant impact on both early and late outcomes: comparing the first (2005-2012) and second (2013-2022) halves of the series, 30-day mortality decreased from 14% to 1% (P = .01) and stroke from 6% to 3% (P = .62). Improved operative outcomes were accompanied by improved late survival, with 78% of patients in the later era vs 45% in the earlier era surviving to 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

HAR is associated with excellent operative outcomes, as well as sustained protection from adverse aortic events as evidenced by high long-term aorta-specific survival and freedom from reintervention. However, surgeon and institutional experience appear to play a major role in achieving these superior outcomes, with a five-fold decrease in operative mortality and a two-fold decrease in stroke rate in the latter half of the series. These long-term results expand on prior midterm data and continue to support use of HAR for properly selected patients with arch disease.

Cognitive Effects of Body Temperature During Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest Trial (GOT ICE): A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Outcomes After Aortic Arch Surgery

BACKGROUND

Deep hypothermia has been the standard for hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) during aortic arch surgery. However, centers worldwide have shifted toward lesser hypothermia with antegrade cerebral perfusion. This has been supported by retrospective data, but there has yet to be a multicenter, prospective randomized study comparing deep versus moderate hypothermia during HCA.

METHODS

This was a randomized single-blind trial (GOT ICE [Cognitive Effects of Body Temperature During Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest]) of patients undergoing arch surgery with HCA plus antegrade cerebral perfusion at 4 US referral aortic centers (August 2016-December 2021). Patients were randomized to 1 of 3 hypothermia groups: DP, deep (≤20.0 °C); LM, low-moderate (20.1-24.0 °C); and HM, high-moderate (24.1-28.0 °C). The primary outcome was composite global cognitive change score between baseline and 4 weeks postoperatively. Analysis followed the intention-to-treat principle to evaluate if: (1) LM noninferior to DP on global cognitive change score; (2) DP superior to HM. The secondary outcomes were domain-specific cognitive change scores, neuroimaging findings, quality of life, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 308 patients consented; 282 met inclusion and were randomized. A total of 273 completed surgery, and 251 completed the 4-week follow-up (DP, 85 [34%]; LM, 80 [34%]; HM, 86 [34%]). Mean global cognitive change score from baseline to 4 weeks in the LM group was noninferior to the DP group; likewise, no significant difference was observed between DP and HM. Noninferiority of LM versus DP, and lack of difference between DP and HM, remained for domain-specific cognitive change scores, except structured verbal memory, with noninferiority of LM versus DP not established and structured verbal memory better preserved in DP versus HM (P = 0.036). There were no significant differences in structural or functional magnetic resonance imaging brain imaging between groups postoperatively. Regardless of temperature, patients who underwent HCA demonstrated significant reductions in cerebral gray matter volume, cortical thickness, and regional brain functional connectivity. Thirty-day in-hospital mortality, major morbidity, and quality of life were not different between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This randomized multicenter study evaluating arch surgery HCA temperature strategies found low-moderate hypothermia noninferior to traditional deep hypothermia on global cognitive change 4 weeks after surgery, although in secondary analysis, structured verbal memory was better preserved in the deep group. The verbal memory differences in the low- and high-moderate groups and structural and functional connectivity reductions from baseline merit further investigation and suggest opportunities to further optimize brain perfusion during HCA.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02834065.

Late Survival After Redo Mitral Operation With Minithoracotomy Compared With Sternotomy

BACKGROUND

The long-term effectiveness of minithoracotomy over redo median sternotomy for reoperative mitral operation is not well described. Here we present long-term survival after reoperative mitral operation based on operative approach.

METHODS

Adults undergoing mitral valve operation with previous sternotomy by redo sternotomy and minithoracotomy were reviewed from our prospectively maintained institutional database from 1997 to 2022. Propensity score matching was performed to compare short- and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 750 consecutive patients, thoracotomy was performed in 503 (67%). Median follow-up was 5.0 years (interquartile range, 0-23 years). Intraoperatively, sternotomy patients were more likely to have central aortic cannulation (205 of 223 [93%] vs 265 of 481 [56%]), cardioplegic arrest (220 of 223 [99%] vs 124 of 481 [26%]), and mitral valve replacement (190 of 223 [85%] vs 358 of 481 [74%]). Thoracotomy patients were older (63 ± 13 vs 58 ± 14 years) with elective presentation (387 of 503 [77%] vs 128 of 247 [52%]). Sternotomy patients were more likely to have endocarditis (52 of 247 [21%] vs 45 of 503 [9%], P < .001). At 10 years, thoracotomy patients experienced improved survival (52% ± 3% vs 46% ± 4%, P = .004). After propensity matching, 10-year survival was significantly higher for thoracotomy patients compared with sternotomy patients (60% ± 5% vs 42% ± 5%, P = .0006). The greatest difference in survival was at the first 6 months after operation (96% ± 1% vs 81% ± 3%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

For patients undergoing reoperative mitral valve operation, minimally invasive right anterior thoracotomy can significantly decrease risk of death in the first 6 months, with durable survival benefit out to 10 years. We present a large single-center series to suggest an important opportunity to durably improve outcomes after reoperative mitral operation through wider use of right minithoracotomy.

Infarct exclusion repair of postmyocardial infarction ventricular septal rupture with a hybrid patch and septal occluder device compared with patch only

Objective

We developed a hybrid technique for repairing post-myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular septal defect (VSD) that combines infarct exclusion with patch and a nitinol-mesh septal occluder device (SOD) to provide a scaffold to support the damaged septal wall. Here, we compare outcomes of patients with post-MI VSD repaired using patch only or hybrid patch/SOD.

Methods

Patients undergoing post-MI VSD repair at our institution from 2013 to 2022 who received patch alone or patch/SOD repair were analyzed. Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Clinical outcomes and echocardiograms were also analyzed.

Results

Over a 9-year period, 24 patients had post-MI VSD repair at our institution with either hybrid patch/SOD (n = 10) or patch only repair (n = 14). VSD size was 18 ± 5.8 mm for patch/SOD and 17 ± 4.6 mm for patch only. In the patch/SOD repair cohort, average size of SOD implant was 23.6 ± 5.6 mm. Mild left ventricular dysfunction was present prerepair and was unchanged postrepair in both groups; however, moderate-to-severe right ventricular (RV) dysfunction was common in both groups before repair. RV function worsened or persisted as severe in 10% of hybrid versus 54% of patch-only patients postrepair. Tricuspid annular systolic excursion and RV:left ventricle diameter ratio, quantitative metrics of RV function, improved after patch/SOD repair. No intraoperative mortality occurred in either group. Postoperative renal, hepatic, and respiratory failure requiring tracheostomy was common in both groups. Survival to hospital discharge in both cohorts was 70%.

Conclusions

Post-MI VSD repair with patch/SOD has comparable short-term outcomes with patch alone. Addition of a SOD to patch repair provides a scaffold that may enhance the repair of post-MI VSD with patch exclusion.

Tailored approach and outcomes of aortic arch reconstruction after acute type A dissection repair

OBJECTIVE

After limited root/ascending with or without hemiarch repair for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD), 20% to 30% of patients require distal reintervention, frequently for arch pathology. In this report, we describe an institutional algorithm for arch management after previous limited ATAAD repair and detail operative and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

From August 2005 to April 2021, 71 patients status post previous limited ATAAD repair underwent reoperative arch repair involving zones 1 to 3 for aneurysmal degeneration of residual arch dissection including complete cervical debranching with zone 0/1 thoracic endovascular aortic repair in 6 (8%), open total arch in 13 (18%), type I hybrid arch repair in 23 (32%), and type II/III hybrid arch repair in 29 (41%).

RESULTS

Mean age was 59 ± 12 years; time from index ATAAD repair to reoperation was 4 (interquartile range, 2-9) years. There were 2 (2.8%) in-hospital deaths and 2 (2.8%) postdischarge deaths within 30 days of surgery. Three patients suffered stroke (4.2%) and 2 (2.8%) had acute renal failure requiring dialysis. Overall Kaplan-Meier survival was 78%, 70%, and 58% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Institutional experience appeared to play a significant role in early and late outcomes, because there have been no operative mortalities in the past 9 years and improved survival of 87% versus 66%, 79% versus 58%, and 79% versus 40% at 1, 3, and 5 years in comparisons of the past 9 years with the previous era (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Aneurysmal degeneration of residual arch dissection after limited ATAAD repair presents a complex reoperative challenge. An algorithmic operative approach tailored to patient anatomy and comorbidities yields excellent early and late outcomes, which continue to improve with increasing institutional experience.

Long-term outcomes of phenoclusters in severe tricuspid regurgitation

AIMS

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) exhibits high 1-year morbidity and mortality, yet long-term cardiovascular risk overall and by subgroups remains unknown. This study characterizes 5-year outcomes and identifies distinct clinical risk profiles of severe TR.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Patients were included from a large US tertiary referral center with new severe TR by echocardiography based on four-category American Society of Echocardiography grading scale between 2007 and 2018. Patients were categorized by TR etiology (with lead present, primary, and secondary) and by supervised recursive partitioning (survival trees) for outcomes of death and the composite of death or heart failure hospitalization. The Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox regression models were used to evaluate any association by (i) TR etiology and (ii) groups identified by survival trees and outcomes over 5 years. Among 2379 consecutive patients with new severe TR, median age was 70 years, 61% were female, and 40% were black. Event rates (95% confidence interval) were 30.9 (29.0-32.8) events/100 patient-years for death and 49.0 (45.9-52.2) events/100 patient-years for the composite endpoint, with no significant difference by TR etiology. After applying supervised survival tree modeling, two separate groups of four phenoclusters with distinct clinical prognoses were separately identified for death and the composite endpoint. Variables discriminating both outcomes were age, albumin, blood urea nitrogen, right ventricular function, and systolic blood pressure (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Patients with newly identified severe TR have high 5-year risk for death and death or heart failure hospitalization. Partitioning patients using supervised survival tree models, but not TR etiology, discriminated clinical risk. These data aid in identifying relevant subgroups in clinical trials of TR and clinical risk/benefit analysis for TR therapies.

A single center experience with minimally invasive approaches in congenital cardiac surgery

Background

Cardiac surgery is a technically demanding field with an appreciable learning curve that extends beyond formal training. Minimally invasive congenital cardiac surgery has one of the steepest learning curves. Early complications often discourage surgeons, particularly those at lower volume centers, from pursuing innovative approaches. Over the past three years, we have utilized a number of minimally invasive approaches including pulmonary valve replacement, anomalous aortic origin coronary artery repair, atrial septal defect repair, epicardial lead placement, and partial anomalous pulmonary venous return. Herein we report on our experience performing minimally invasive congenital cardiac surgery, lessons learned, and how our approach has evolved.

Methods

We performed a single institution, retrospective review, wherein continuous variables were reported as median (interquartile range).

Results

Between September 2017 and May 2020, minimally invasive approaches were attempted on 49 patients with a median age of 19 years (14–47 years) for nine distinct congenital cardiac diagnoses. Seven patients (14%) required conversion to larger incisions, including four patients or 36% of those undergoing anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery repair. Patients who were converted had a higher body mass index 33.1 (31.7–37.8) than those who were not (24.2, 20.8–29.3) (P=0.009).

Conclusions

Minimally invasive approaches for congenital cardiac conditions require a team approach. Patients with a body mass index greater than 30 should be counseled on the higher rate of conversion. We no longer perform minimally invasive anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery repair given the high rate of conversions and complications. Surgeons attempting this procedure should do so cautiously.

Does deeper hypothermia reduce the risk of acute kidney injury after circulatory arrest for aortic arch surgery?

OBJECTIVES

The impact of hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) temperature on postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) has not been evaluated. This study examined the association between circulatory arrest temperatures and AKI in patients undergoing proximal aortic surgery with HCA.

METHODS

A total of 759 consecutive patients who underwent proximal aortic surgery (ascending ± valve ± root) including arch replacement requiring HCA between July 2005 and December 2016 were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional aortic surgery database. The primary outcome was AKI as defined by Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) criteria. The association between minimum nasopharyngeal (NP) and bladder temperatures during HCA and postoperative AKI was assessed, adjusting for patient-level factors using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 85% (n = 645) of patients underwent deep hypothermia (14.1-20.0°C), 11% (n = 83) low-moderate hypothermia (20.1-24.0°C) and 4% (n = 31) high-moderate hypothermia (24.1-28.0°C) as classified by NP temperature. When analysed by bladder temperature, 59% (n = 447) underwent deep hypothermia, 22% (n = 170) low-moderate, 16% (n = 118) high-moderate and 3% mild (n = 24) (28.1-34.0°C) hypothermia. The median systemic circulatory arrest time was 17 min. The incidence of AKI did not differ between hypothermia groups, whether analysed using minimum NP or bladder temperature. In the multivariable analysis, the association between degree of hypothermia and AKI remained non-significant whether analysed as a categorical variable (hypothermia group) or as a continuous variable (minimum NP or bladder temperature) (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing proximal aortic surgery including arch replacement requiring HCA, degree of systemic hypothermia was not associated with the risk of AKI. These data suggest that moderate hypothermia does not confer increased risk of AKI for patients requiring circulatory arrest, although additional prospective data are needed.

Long-term outcomes of aortic root replacement for endocarditis

BACKGROUND

Infective endocarditis (IE) involving the aortic valve and root is associated with high risk requiring thoughtful surgical decision-making. The impact of valve and conduit choices and patient factors on long-term outcomes in this patient population is poorly documented.

METHODS

From January 1976 to December 2013, 485 patients underwent aortic root and valve replacement at a single institution. Cox's proportional hazard model identified predictors of long-term survival and cumulative incidence functions were compared to assess need for reoperation with death as a competing risk.

RESULTS

Median age at time of operation was 56.6 years (interquartile range: 23.1) with the indication for operation being endocarditis in 14.6% (n = 71). Stentless root replacement was used in 70% IE versus 34% non-IE (p < .001). Endocarditis at time of root replacement did not have a significant impact on survival through 15 years (IE: 37.3% vs. non-IE: 42.5%; log-rank; p = .13). After multivariable adjustment, survival was similar between patients with and without endocarditis (hazard ratio: 1.1; 95% confidence interval: [0.77, 1.62]; p = .57). Freedom from reoperation at 15 years did not vary significantly by endocarditis status (IE: 95.9% vs. non-IE: 73.6%; p = .07). Among endocarditis patients, freedom from reoperation at 10 years was similar between homograft and stentless bioprosthetic conduits (95.3% vs. 88.5%; log-rank; K-sample; p = .46).

CONCLUSIONS

In a sample with frequent use of stentless prostheses, aortic root replacement for infective endocarditis had acceptable risk and long-term survival similar to root replacement for other indications. In the setting of endocarditis, root replacement with homograft or stentless bioprosthetic root has excellent durability through 15 years.

Impact of dual energy cardiac CT for metal artefact reduction post aortic valve replacement

PURPOSE

Assess image quality of dual-energy (DE) and single-energy (SE) cardiac multi-detector computed tomographic (MDCT) post aortic valve replacement (AVR) on a dual source MDCT scanner.

METHODS

Eighty patients with cardiac MDCT acquisitions (ECG gated, dual-source) post-surgical and transcatheter AVR were retrospectively identified. Forty DE (cohort 1) and 40 SE acquisitions (cohort 2; 100 or 120 kVp) were reviewed. Metal artefact at valve coaptation (VC) and valve insertion site (VIS), and contrast enhancement were assessed. Valve leaflet edge definition was graded on a 4-point scale by three radiologists.

RESULTS

The mean percentage valve area obscured by metal artifact differed between the cohorts; cohort 1 DE blended, high keV and low keV: 14.8 %, 11.1 % and 17.8 % at VC and 16.4 %, 13 %, 20.4 % at VIS respectively. Cohort 2: 25.8 % and 33.6 % (VC and VIS); each DE reconstruction vs SE: P < 0.0001. Average contrast opacification and coefficient of variance for cohort 1: 562.9 ± 144.7, 281.1 ± 60.3 and 1132.7 ± 300.8 Hounsfield Units (HU) and 9.6 %, 10 % and 8.9 %. For cohort 2: 437.2 ± 119.2 HU and 10.8 % (P < 0.01). Average leaflet edge definition cohort 1: 2.3 ± 0.4, 2.7 ± 0.2 and 2.3 ± 0.2, and cohort 2: 2.9 ± 0.2.

CONCLUSION

DE high keV renderings can result in up to 17.2 % less metal artefact compared to standard SE acquisition for cardiac CT. Contrast opacification and homogeneity is higher for DE blended and low keV renderings compared to SE acquisition with leaflet visibility preferred for low keV and blended DE renderings.

Association of postoperative complications and outcomes following coronary artery bypass grafting

BACKGROUND

The long-term effects of postoperative complications following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are unknown.

METHODS

Medicare-linked records from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database were queried for isolated CABG records from 2007 through 2012. Unadjusted and adjusted associations between individual postoperative complications and both mortality and all-cause rehospitalization were evaluated to 7 years using Cox proportional-hazards models and cumulative incidence functions. Because of nonproportional hazards, associations are presented as early (0 to 90 days) and late (90 days to 7 years).

RESULTS

Of the 294,533 isolated CABG patients who had records linked to Medicare for long-term follow-up (median age, 73 years; 30% female), 120,721 (41%) experienced at least 1 of the complications of interest, including new-onset atrial fibrillation (30.0%), prolonged ventilation (12.3%), renal failure (4.5%), reoperation (3.5%), stroke (1.9%), and sternal wound infection (0.4%). Each of the 6 postoperative complications was associated with a significantly increased risk of mortality and rehospitalization to 7 years despite adjustment for baseline characteristics and the presence of multiple complications. Although the predominant effect of postoperative complications was observed in the first 90 days, the increased risk-adjusted hazard for death and rehospitalization continued through 7 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative complications are associated with an increased risk of both early and late mortality and all-cause rehospitalization, particularly during the "value" window within 90 days of CABG. These findings underscore the need to develop avoidance strategies as well as cost-adjustment methods for each of these complications.

Surgically implanted aortic valve bioprostheses deform after implantation: insights from computed tomography

OBJECTIVE

Little is known about the prevalence and degree of deformation of surgically implanted aortic biological valve prostheses (bio-sAVRs). We assessed bio-sAVR deformation using multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT).

METHODS

Three imaging databases were searched for patients with MDCT performed after bio-sAVR implantation. Minimal and maximal valve ring diameters were obtained in systole and/or diastole, depending on the acquired cardiac phase(s). The eccentricity index (EI) was calculated as a measure of deformation as (1 - (minimal diameter/maximal diameter)) × 100%. EI of < 5% was considered none or trivial deformation, 5-10% mild deformation, and > 10% non-circular. Indications for MDCT and implanted valve type were retrieved.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-two scans of bio-sAVRs were included. One hundred seventeen measurements were performed in systole and 35 in diastole. None or trivial deformation (EI < 5%) was seen in 67/152 (44%) of patients. Mild deformation (EI 5-10%) was seen in 59/152 (39%) and non-circularity was found in 26/152 (17%) of cases. Overall, median EI was 5.5% (IQR 3.4-7.8). In 77 patients, both systolic and diastolic measurements were performed from the same scan. For these scans, the median EI was 6.5% (IQR 3.4-10.2) in systole and 5.1% (IQR3.1-7.6) in diastole, with a significant difference between both groups (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgically implanted aortic biological valve prostheses show mild deformation in 39% of cases and were considered non-circular in 17% of studied valves.

KEY POINTS

• Deformation of surgically implanted aortic valve bioprostheses (bio-sAVRs) can be adequately assessed using MDCT. • Bio-sAVRs show at least mild deformation (eccentricity index > 5%) in 56% of studied cases and were considered non-circular (eccentricity index > 10%) in 17% of studied valves. • The higher deformity rate found in bio-sAVRs with (suspected) valve pathology could suggest that geometric deformity may play a role in leaflet malformation and thrombus formation similar to that of transcatheter heart valves.

Three-factor prothrombin complex concentrates for refractory bleeding after cardiovascular surgery within an algorithmic approach to haemostasis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) are increasingly administered off-label in the United States to treat bleeding in cardiovascular surgical patients and carry the potential risk for acquired thromboembolic side-effects after surgery. Therefore, we hypothesized that the use of low-dose 3-factor (3F) PCC (20-30 IU/kg), as part of a transfusion algorithm, reduces bleeding without increasing postoperative thrombotic/thromboembolic complications.

MATERIALS/METHODS

After IRB approval, we retrospectively analysed 114 consecutive, complex cardiovascular surgical patients (age > 18 years), between February 2014 and June 2015, that received low-dose 3F-PCC (Profilnine^® ), of which seven patients met established exclusion criteria. PCC was dosed according to an institutional perioperative algorithm. Allogeneic transfusions were recorded before and after PCC administration (n = 107). The incidence of postoperative thromboembolic events was determined within 30 days of surgery, and Factor II levels were measured in a subset of patients (n = 20) as a quality control measure to avoid excessive PCC dosing.

RESULTS

Total allogeneic blood product transfusion reached a mean of 12·4 ± 9·9 units before PCC and 5·0 ± 6·3 units after PCC administration (P < 0·001). The mean PCC dose was 15·8 ± 7·1 IU/kg. Four patients (3·8%) each experienced an ischaemic stroke on postoperative day 1, 2, 4 and 27. Seven patients (6·5%) had acquired venous thromboembolic disease within 10 days of surgery. Median factor II level after transfusion algorithm adherence and PCC administration was 87%.

CONCLUSIONS

3F-PCC use for refractory bleeding after cardiovascular surgery resulted in reduced transfusion of allogeneic blood and blood products. Adherence to this algorithmic approach was associated with an acceptable incidence of postoperative thrombotic/thromboembolic complications.

Association of Renin-Angiotensin Inhibitor Treatment With Mortality and Heart Failure Readmission in Patients With Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

IMPORTANCE

Data are lacking on the effect of a renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitor prescribed after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Treatment with a RAS inhibitor may reverse left ventricular remodeling and improve function.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of prescription of a RAS inhibitor and outcomes after TAVR.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Retrospective cohort study of TAVR procedures performed in the United States (using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons/American College of Cardiology Transcatheter Valve Therapies Registry) between July 2014 and January 2016 that were linked to Medicare claims data (final date of follow-up: March 31, 2017). To account for differences in demographics, echocardiographic findings, and in-hospital complications, 1:1 propensity matching was performed.

EXPOSURES

Initial hospital discharge prescription of a RAS inhibitor after TAVR.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were all-cause death and readmission due to heart failure at 1 year after discharge, which were considered separately. The secondary outcome was health status assessed by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ; score range: 0-100, with a higher score indicating less symptom burden and better quality of life; a small effect size was defined as 5 points) at 1 year.

RESULTS

Among 21 312 patients who underwent TAVR at 417 US sites, 8468 patients (39.7%) were prescribed a RAS inhibitor at hospital discharge. After propensity matching, 15 896 patients were included (mean [SD] age, 82.4 [6.8] years; 48.1% were women; mean [SD] left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF], 51.9% [11.5%]). Patients with a prescription for a RAS inhibitor vs those with no prescription had lower mortality rates at 1 year (12.5% vs 14.9%, respectively; absolute risk difference [ARD], -2.4% [95% CI, -3.5% to -1.4%]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.82 [95% CI, 0.76 to 0.90]) and lower heart failure readmission rates at 1 year (12.0% vs 13.8%; ARD, -1.8% [95% CI, -2.8% to -0.7%]; HR, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.79 to 0.95]). When stratified by LVEF, having a prescription for a RAS inhibitor vs no prescription was associated with lower 1-year mortality among patients with preserved LVEF (11.1% vs 13.9%, respectively; ARD, -2.81% [95% CI, -3.95% to -1.67%]; HR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.71 to 0.86]), but not among those with reduced LVEF (18.8% vs 19.5%; ARD, -0.68% [95% CI, -3.52% to 2.20%]; HR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.81 to 1.12]) (P = .04 for interaction). Of 15 896 matched patients, 4837 (30.4%) were included in the KCCQ score analysis and improvements at 1 year were greater in patients with a prescription for a RAS inhibitor vs those with no prescription (median, 33.3 [interquartile range, 14.2 to 51.0] vs 31.3 [interquartile range, 13.5 to 51.1], respectively; difference in improvement, 2.10 [95% CI, 0.10 to 4.06]; P < .001), but the effect size was not clinically meaningful.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients who underwent TAVR, receiving a prescription for a RAS inhibitor at hospital discharge compared with no prescription was significantly associated with a lower risk of mortality and heart failure readmission. However, due to potential selection bias, this finding requires further investigation in randomized trials.

Temporary autonomic modulation with botulinum toxin type A to reduce atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) frequently complicates cardiac surgery and is associated with worse outcomes. The cardiac autonomic nervous system is implicated in the pathogenesis of POAF.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of selective cardiac autonomic modulation in preventing POAF.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, adults undergoing cardiac surgery were randomized 1:1 to intraoperative injection of 250 units onabotulinumtoxinA (botulinum toxin type A [BoNTA]) or placebo into epicardial fat pads. The study was powered to detect a 40% reduction in relative risk of POAF. Time to first episode of in-hospital POAF was the primary outcome, evaluated in patients receiving injection. Additionally, incidence of POAF, length of stay (LOS), and adverse events were examined.

RESULTS

The trial assigned 145 patients to injection, 15 of whom were dropped before treatment, leaving 130 patients for analysis. Overall, 36.5% (23/63) of BoNTA-treated patients developed POAF compared with 47.8% (32/67) of placebo-treated patients. The time-to-event analysis revealed a hazard ratio of 0.69 (95% confidence interval 0.41-1.19; P = .18) for the BoNTA vs placebo arm. There were no significant differences in postoperative hospital LOS (median [interquartile range] 6.0 [3.4] vs 6.2 [3.7] days; P = .51) or adverse events prolonging LOS (27/63 [42.9%] vs 30/67 [44.8%]; P = .83) in patients receiving BoNTA vs placebo.

CONCLUSION

Epicardial injection of onabotulinumtoxinA was without discernible adverse effects, but we failed to detect a significant difference in risk of POAF. Future large-scale studies of epicardial onabotulinumtoxinA injection as a potential POAF prevention strategy should be designed to study smaller, but clinically meaningful, treatment effects.

Longitudinal Changes in Regional Cerebral Perfusion and Cognition After Cardiac Operation

BACKGROUND

Cardiac operation has been associated with increased risk of postoperative cognitive decline, as well as dementia risk in the general population. Few studies, however, have examined the impact of coronary revascularization or valve replacement or repair operation on longitudinal cerebral perfusion changes or their association with cognitive function.

METHODS

We examined longitudinal changes in cerebral perfusion among 54 individuals with cardiac disease; 27 undergoing cardiac operation and 27 matched control patients. Arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance perfusion imaging was used to quantify cerebral blood flow within the anterior communicating artery, middle cerebral artery (MCA), and posterior communicating artery vascular territories before operation and postoperatively at 6 weeks and 1 year. Cognitive performance was examined during the same intervals by using a battery of tests that tapped memory, executive, information processing and upper extremity motor functions. Repeated measures, mixed models were used to examine for perfusion changes and the association between perfusion changes and cognition.

RESULTS

Significant postoperative increases in perfusion were observed at 6 weeks within the MCA vascular territory after cardiac operation (p = 0.035 for interaction). Perfusion changes were most notable in distal territories of the MCA and posterior communicating artery at 6 weeks, with no additional changes at 1 year. Postoperative increases in MCA perfusion at 6 weeks were associated with improved psychomotor speed (β = 0.35, p = 0.016), whereas no important differences were found between the groups in vascular territory perfusion and cognition at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac operation is associated with important short-term increases in MCA perfusion with associated improvements in psychomotor speed.

Management Considerations in Infective Endocarditis: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Infective endocarditis occurs in approximately 15 of 100 000 people in the United States and has increased in incidence. Clinicians must make treatment decisions with respect to prophylaxis, surgical management, specific antibiotics, and the length of treatment in the setting of emerging, sometimes inconclusive clinical research findings.

OBSERVATIONS

Community-associated infective endocarditis remains the predominant form of the disease; however, health care accounts for one-third of cases in high-income countries. As medical interventions are increasingly performed on older patients, the disease incidence from cardiac implanted electronic devices is also increasing. In addition, younger patients involved with intravenous drug use has increased in the past decade and with it the proportion of US hospitalization has increased to more than 10%. These epidemiological factors have led to Staphylococcus aureus being the most common cause in high-income countries, accounting for up to 40% of cases. The mainstays of diagnosis are still echocardiography and blood cultures. Adjunctive imaging such as cardiac computed tomographic and nuclear imaging can improve the sensitivity for diagnosis when echocardiography is not conclusive. Serological studies, histopathology, and polymerase chain reaction assays have distinct roles in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis when blood culture have tested negative with the highest yield obtained from serological studies. Increasing antibiotic resistance, particularly to S aureus, has led to a need for different antibiotic treatment options such as newer antibiotics and combination therapy regimens. Surgery can confer a survival benefit to patients with major complications; however, the decision to pursue surgery must balance the risks and benefits of operations in these frequently high-risk patients.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The epidemiology and management of infective endocarditis are continually changing. Guidelines provide specific recommendations about management; however, careful attention to individual patient characteristics, pathogen, and risk of sequela must be considered when making therapeutic decisions.

Association Between Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion and Readmission for Thromboembolism Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Concomitant Cardiac Surgery

IMPORTANCE

The left atrial appendage is a key site of thrombus formation in atrial fibrillation (AF) and can be occluded or removed at the time of cardiac surgery. There is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of surgical left atrial appendage occlusion (S-LAAO) for reducing the risk of thromboembolism.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of S-LAAO vs no receipt of S-LAAO with the risk of thromboembolism among older patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Retrospective cohort study of a nationally representative Medicare-linked cohort from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (2011-2012). Patients aged 65 years and older with AF undergoing cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass grafting [CABG], mitral valve surgery with or without CABG, or aortic valve surgery with or without CABG) with and without concomitant S-LAAO were followed up until December 31, 2014.

EXPOSURES

S-LAAO vs no S-LAAO.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was readmission for thromboembolism (stroke, transient ischemic attack, or systemic embolism) at up to 3 years of follow-up, as defined by Medicare claims data. Secondary end points included hemorrhagic stroke, all-cause mortality, and a composite end point (thromboembolism, hemorrhagic stroke, or all-cause mortality).

RESULTS

Among 10 524 patients undergoing surgery (median age, 76 years; 39% female; median CHA2DS2-VASc score, 4), 3892 (37%) underwent S-LAAO. Overall, at a mean follow-up of 2.6 years, thromboembolism occurred in 5.4%, hemorrhagic stroke in 0.9%, all-cause mortality in 21.5%, and the composite end point in 25.7%. S-LAAO, compared with no S-LAAO, was associated with lower unadjusted rates of thromboembolism (4.2% vs 6.2%), all-cause mortality (17.3% vs 23.9%), and the composite end point (20.5% vs 28.7%) but no significant difference in rates of hemorrhagic stroke (0.9% vs 0.9%). After inverse probability-weighted adjustment, S-LAAO was associated with a significantly lower rate of thromboembolism (subdistribution hazard ratio [HR], 0.67; 95% CI, 0.56-0.81; P < .001), all-cause mortality (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.79-0.97; P = .001), and the composite end point (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.76-0.91; P < .001) but not hemorrhagic stroke (subdistribution HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.53-1.32; P = .44). S-LAAO, compared with no S-LAAO, was associated with a lower risk of thromboembolism among patients discharged without anticoagulation (unadjusted rate, 4.2% vs 6.0%; adjusted subdistribution HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.17-0.40; P < .001), but not among patients discharged with anticoagulation (unadjusted rate, 4.1% vs 6.3%; adjusted subdistribution HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.56-1.39; P = .59).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among older patients with AF undergoing concomitant cardiac surgery, S-LAAO, compared with no S-LAAO, was associated with a lower risk of readmission for thromboembolism over 3 years. These findings support the use of S-LAAO, but randomized trials are necessary to provide definitive evidence.

Using a Regent Aortic Valve in a Small Annulus Mitral Position Is a Viable Option

BACKGROUND

Outcome of mitral valve replacement in extreme scenarios of small mitral annulus with the use of the Regent mechanical aortic valve is not well documented.

METHODS

Records were examined in 31 consecutive patients who underwent mitral valve replacement with the use of the aortic Regent valve because of a small mitral annulus.

RESULTS

Mean age was 60 ± 14 years. Mitral stenosis or mitral annulus calcification was present in 30 of 31 patients (97%). Concurrent procedures were performed in 17 of 31 patients (55%). Median valve size was 23 mm. Mean mitral gradient coming out of the operating room was 4.2 ± 1.5 mm Hg and at follow-up echocardiogram performed at a median of 32 months after the procedure was 5.8 ± 2.4 mm Hg.

CONCLUSIONS

A Regent aortic mechanical valve can be a viable option with a larger orifice area than the regular mechanical mitral valve in a problematic situation of a small mitral valve annulus. Moreover, the pressure gradients over the valve are acceptable intraoperatively and over time.

Outcomes of Reoperation After Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: Implications for Index Repair Strategy

Background

The optimal surgical approach for management of acute type A aortic dissection remains controversial. This study aimed to assess outcomes of reoperation after acute type A dissection repair to help guide decision making around index operative strategy.

Methods and Results

All aortic reoperations (n=129) at a single referral institution from August 2005 to April 2016 after prior acute type A dissection repair were reviewed. The primary outcome was 30‐day or in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included organ‐specific morbidity and 1‐ and 5‐year outcomes as estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. The majority of initial reoperations were proximal aortic (aortic valve, aortic root, or ascending) or aortic arch procedures (62.5%, n=55); most initial reoperations were performed in the elective setting (83.1%, n=74). Additional nonstaged second or more reoperations were required in 21 patients (23.6%) after the initial reoperation, during a median follow‐up of 2.5 years after the initial reoperation. Thirty‐day or in‐hospital mortality for all reoperations was 7.0% (elective: 6.3%; nonelective: 11.1%) with acceptable rates of organ‐specific morbidity, given the procedural complexity. One‐ and 5‐year overall survival after initial reoperation was 85.9% and 64.9%, respectively, with aorta‐specific survival of 88% at 5 years.

Conclusions

Reoperation after acute type A aortic dissection repair is associated with low rates of mortality and morbidity. These data support more limited index repair for acute type A dissection, especially for patients undergoing index repair in lower volume centers without expertise in extensive repair, because reoperations, if needed, can be performed safely in referral aortic centers.

Use of Adjuncts Reduces Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time During Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR) through a mini-thoracotomy is comparable to AVR through a sternotomy, but may have increased surgical times. The development of adjuncts such as the automatic knot fastener and percutaneous coronary sinus (CS) catheter may reduce this disadvantage.

METHODS

A retrospective review conducted between 2002 and 2015 at a single institution revealed 78 patients who underwent MIAVR with adjuncts. The automatic knot fastener was used on all patients, and a successful CS catheter was placed and confirmed by echocardiography in 67 patients (86%). Patients were propensity matched against those who had MIAVR without adjuncts (n = 78) and through a median sternotomy (n = 78) for assessment of major morbidity. Variables were compared using an unpaired t-test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, chi-squared and Fisher's exact test where appropriate.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent MIAVR with adjuncts had shorter cross-clamp times (70.5 versus 108.1 and 84.4 min; p <0.0001) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) times (101.1 versus 166.12 and 127.7 min; p <0.0001) than those who underwent MIAVR without adjuncts or through a median sternotomy. Patients who underwent MIAVR received fewer blood transfusions compared to those undergoing AVR via a median sternotomy (0.6 and 1.2 versus 2.5; p <0.012). Patients who underwent MIAVR with adjuncts had similar rates of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) than those undergoing MIAVR without adjuncts (33% versus 22%; p = 0.11), but had higher rates of AF compared to the sternotomy group (33% versus 17%; p = 0.02). Rates of in-hospital morbidity and mortality were similar between all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of adjuncts during MIAVR led to a significant shortening of cross-clamp and CPB times, and to a requirement for fewer blood transfusions. Morbidity and mortality rates after MIAVR were similar to those in patients undergoing a median sternotomy.

Resting-State Functional Connectivity and Cognition After Major Cardiac Surgery in Older Adults without Preoperative Cognitive Impairment: Preliminary Findings

OBJECTIVES

To look for changes in intrinsic functional brain connectivity associated with postoperative changes in cognition, a common complication in seniors undergoing major surgery, using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging.

DESIGN

Objective cognitive testing and functional brain imaging were prospectively performed at preoperative baseline and 6 weeks after surgery and at the same time intervals in nonsurgical controls.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Older adults undergoing cardiac surgery (n = 12) and nonsurgical older adult controls with a history of coronary artery disease (n = 12); no participants had cognitive impairment at preoperative baseline (Mini-Mental State Examination score >27).

MEASUREMENTS

Differences in resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and global cognitive change relationships were assessed using a voxel-wise intrinsic connectivity method, controlling for demographic factors and pre- and perioperative cerebral white matter disease volume. Analyses were corrected for multiple comparisons (false discovery rate P < .01).

RESULTS

Global cognitive change after cardiac surgery was significantly associated with intrinsic RSFC changes in regions of the posterior cingulate cortex and right superior frontal gyrus-anatomical and functional locations of the brain's default mode network (DMN). No statistically significant relationships were found between global cognitive change and RSFC change in nonsurgical controls.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians have long known that some older adults develop postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) after anesthesia and surgery, yet the neurobiological correlates of POCD are not well defined. The current results suggest that altered RSFC in specific DMN regions is positively correlated with global cognitive change 6 weeks after cardiac surgery, suggesting that DMN activity and connectivity could be important diagnostic markers of POCD or intervention targets for potential POCD treatment efforts.

Imaging Surveillance After Proximal Aortic Operations: Is it Necessary?

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines for imaging surveillance after proximal aortic repair are not evidence based. This study sought to characterize the incidence and causes of reintervention after proximal aortic operations to provide data to guide the frequency and duration of postoperative surveillance.

METHODS

Data on all patients undergoing proximal aortic operations (ascending, with or without root, with or without aortic valve replacement, or with or without arch) during a 9-year period (n = 869) at a single institution were prospectively collected. Patients who required reintervention on the proximal or distal aorta were identified and causes for reintervention determined. Planned two-stage repairs and index procedures done at other hospitals were excluded. The primary end point was the time to the first reintervention, and competing-risk Cox regression was used to model reintervention risk.

RESULTS

Reinterventions occurred in 4.3% of patients (n = 37), with 48.6% (n = 18) involving the proximal aorta and 51.4% (n = 19) the distal. Median time to reintervention was 2.8 years (interquartile range, 1.5 to 3.6 years). For index aneurysm cases, reintervention for aneurysm of the descending/thoracoabdominal aorta and root were most common. Of the 6 root aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms, 5 (83%) were due to degeneration of a stentless porcine aortic root. For index type A dissections, reintervention for aneurysm of the descending/thoracoabdominal aorta and arch were most common. The mean duration of follow up was 4.2 ± 2.5 years. The 9-year actuarial freedom from reintervention was 92.9%. Cox regression showed index type A dissection was a significant predictor of time to aortic reintervention (hazard ratio, 2.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.04 to 3.9; p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Reinterventions after proximal aortic operations are uncommon; most occur within 3 years of the index operation and involve the proximal and distal aorta nearly equally. Patients with type A dissection or stentless porcine roots require aggressive surveillance, whereas a more liberal approach is suitable for patients without such risk factors. This strategy may reduce the lifetime radiation burden and health care costs.

The utility of the aortic dissection team: outcomes and insights after a decade of experience

BACKGROUND

Mortality rates following acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) repair are reduced when operations are performed by a high-volume acute aortic dissection (AAD) team, leading to efforts to centralize ATAAD care. Here, we describe our experience with ATAAD repair by our AAD team over the last 10 years, with a focus on patient selection, transfer protocols, operative approach, and volume trends over time.

METHODS

An AAD team was implemented at our institution in 2005, with dedicated high-volume AAD surgeons, a multidisciplinary approach to thoracic aortic disease management, and a standardized protocol for ATAAD repair. Further process improvements were made in 2013 to facilitate the rapid transfer of ATAAD patients to our institution using stream-lined triage, diagnostic, and transfer protocols for patients with suspected ATAAD (RACE-AD protocol). Volume trends and outcomes were assessed longitudinally over this period.

RESULTS

Institutional ATAAD repair volume remained constant at 12±2 cases per year from 2005-2013, but increased nearly two-fold to 22±6 cases per year (P=0.004) from 2013-2015 following implementation of the RACE-AD protocol. To accommodate this increased volume, two additional surgeons were added to the AAD team. Surgeon ATAAD repair volume was unchanged over the 10-year interval (7.9±3.9 cases per year from 2005-2013 versus 5.5±1.5 cases per year from 2013-2015; P=0.36), and all AAD team surgeons consistently met or exceeded the high-volume surgeon threshold of 5 ATAAD repairs per year. Thirty-day/in-hospital mortality rates of less than 10% were maintained over the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Centralization of ATAAD care has begun to occur at our center, with maintenance of low mortality rates for ATAAD repair. These data confirm a net positive impact on regional ATAAD outcomes through transfer of patients to a high-volume center with dedicated AAD surgeons.

Valve-in-Valve Transcatheter Valve Implantation in the Nonaortic Position

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter valve-in-valve (VIV) procedures are an alternative to standard surgical valve replacement in high risk patients.

METHODS

Cases in which a commercially approved transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) device was used for a nonaortic VIV procedure between November 2013 and September 2015 are reviewed. Clinical, echocardiographic, and procedural details, patient survival, and symptom severity by NYHA class at follow-up were assessed.

RESULTS

All patients were heart-team determined high risk for conventional redo surgery (mean STS PROM = 6.8 ± 2.2%). Five patients underwent VIV replacement in the nonaortic position, four for bioprosthetic mitral valve dysfunction, and one for bioprosthetic tricuspid valve dysfunction. Bioprosthetic failure was due to stenosis in three patients and regurgitation in two others. A balloon-expandable device was used for all patients (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA). Transcatheter VIV replacement was accomplished by the transapical (mitral) and transfemoral venous (tricuspid) approaches. Median postoperative length of stay was five days (range 3-12). No deaths occurred at a mean follow-up of 21 months. NYHA class at follow-up decreased from class IV at baseline to class I or II for all patients. No paravalvular leaks greater than trivial were encountered. Median mean gradient following mitral replacement was 6.5 mmHg (range 6-13 mmHg), and following tricuspid replacement was 4 mmHg. Postoperative complications included hematuria, epistaxis, acute kidney injury, and atrial fibrillation.

CONCLUSIONS

Transcatheter VIV implantation in the nonaortic position for dysfunctional bioprostheses can be performed safely with favorable clinical outcomes using a balloon expandable TAVR device. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12745 (J Card Surg 2016;31:282-288).

Use of human fibrinogen concentrate during proximal aortic reconstruction with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

OBJECTIVE

Human fibrinogen concentrate (HFC) is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use at 70 mg/kg to treat congenital afibrinogenemia. We sought to determine whether this dose of HFC increases fibrinogen levels in the setting of high-risk bleeding associated with aortic reconstruction and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA).

METHODS

This was a prospective, pilot, off-label study in which 22 patients undergoing elective proximal aortic reconstruction with DHCA were administered 70 mg/kg HFC upon separation from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Fibrinogen levels were measured at baseline, just before, and 10 minutes after HFC administration, on skin closure, and the day after surgery. The primary study outcome was the difference in fibrinogen level immediately after separation from CPB, when HFC was administered, and the fibrinogen level 10 minutes following HFC administration. Additionally, postoperative thromboembolic events were assessed as a safety analysis.

RESULTS

The mean baseline fibrinogen level was 317 ± 49 mg/dL and fell to 235 ± 39 mg/dL just before separation from CPB. After HFC administration, the fibrinogen level rose to 331 ± 41 mg/dL (P < .001) and averaged 372 ± 45 mg/dL the next day. No postoperative thromboembolic complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of 70 mg/kg HFC upon separation from CPB raises fibrinogen levels by approximately 100 mg/dL without an apparent increase in thrombotic complications during proximal aortic reconstruction with DHCA. Further prospective study in a larger cohort of patients will be needed to definitively determine the safety and evaluate the efficacy of HFC as a hemostatic adjunct during these procedures.

Sternal talon offers a solution for secondary sternum osteosynthesis in patients with nonunion

BACKGROUND

Median sternotomy may be associated with postoperative complications such as nonunion after conventional metal wire closure. The Sternal Talon device (KLS Martin, Jacksonville, FL) has recently been introduced as an alternative for osteosynthesis after median sternotomy and may also be beneficial for patients with persistent sternal nonunion.

METHODS

A consecutive series of 24 patients underwent Sternal Talon repair for sternal nonunion or acute mediastinitis, or both, after sternal wire closure. Patient data--including demographics, surgical history, and indication for operation, as well as outcomes--were obtained and analyzed by retrospective chart review.

RESULTS

The average patient age was 61.3 years and 23 patients were men (95.8%). The most common median sternotomy procedure was coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in 19 patients (79.2%). Secondary closure using the Sternal Talon was indicated for sternal nonunion or infection, or both, in all patients. Eight patients underwent simultaneous muscle flap procedures during the placement of the Sternal Talon (33.3%). Sternal union was eventually achieved in 23 of 24 patients (95.8%). Subsequent reoperation was required in 4 patients (16.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

The data presented suggest that the osteosynthesis using the Sternal Talon device is a safe and effective modality for treating symptomatic sternal nonunion or acute dehiscence associated with infection (mediastinitis.).

Current management and outcome of chronic type B aortic dissection: results with open and endovascular repair since the advent of thoracic endografting

BACKGROUND

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has become the preferred treatment for chronic type B aortic dissection (CTBAD) at our institution. However, it remains incapable of treating all patients with CTBAD. The present study aims to review our contemporary results with open and endovascular CTBAD repairs since the advent of thoracic endografting.

METHODS

The records of all patients undergoing index repair of CTBAD (chronic DeBakey type IIIA, IIIB and repaired type I) at our institution between June 2005 and December 2013, were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients underwent CTBAD repair, of whom 70% (n=75) underwent endovascular-based procedures [44 TEVAR, 27 hybrid arch and four hybrid thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair] and 30% (n=32) underwent open procedures (nine open descending and 23 open TAAA). Connective tissue disease (CTD), prior aortic surgery and DeBakey dissection type were strongly associated with the choice of operation. The rates of stroke, paraplegia and operative mortality following endovascular-based repairs were 0%, 0% and 4% (n=3), respectively. Adverse neurologic events were higher following open repair, and rates of stroke, paraplegia, and operative mortality were 16% (n=5), 9% (n=3), and 6% (n=2), respectively. However, 1- and 5-year survival rates were similar for endovascular-based repairs (86% and 65%, respectively), and open repairs (88% and 79%, respectively). Over a median follow-up interval of 34 months, the rate of descending aortic reintervention was 24% (n=18) following endovascular-based repairs and 0% following open repairs (P=0.001). Forty-four percent (n=8) of descending aortic reinterventions were required to treat stent graft complications (five endoleak, two stent graft collapse and one stent graft-induced new entry tear) and the remainder were required to treat metachronous pathology (n=2) or progressive aneurysmal disease related to persistent distal fenestrations (n=8).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular repair of CTBAD was associated with excellent procedural and survival outcomes, but at the expense of further reinterventions. Open repair remains relevant for patients who are not candidates for endovascular repair and was associated with higher procedural morbidity but similar overall survival and fewer reinterventions.

Antegrade versus retrograde cerebral perfusion for hemiarch replacement with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest: does it matter? A propensity-matched analysis

OBJECTIVE

The choice of cerebral perfusion strategy for aortic arch surgery has been debated, and the superiority of antegrade (ACP) or retrograde (RCP) cerebral perfusion has not been shown. We examined the early and late outcomes for ACP versus RCP in proximal (hemi-) arch replacement using deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was performed for all patients undergoing elective and nonelective hemiarch replacement at a single referral institution from June 2005 to February 2013. Total arch cases were excluded to limit the analysis to shorter DHCA times and a more uniform patient population for whom clinical equipoise regarding ACP versus RCP exists. A total of 440 procedures were identified, with 360 (82%) using ACP and 80 (18%) using RCP. The endpoints included 30-day/in-hospital and late outcomes. A propensity score with 1:1 matching of 40 pre- and intraoperative variables was used to adjust for differences between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

All 80 RCP patients were propensity matched to a cohort of 80 similar ACP patients. The pre- and intraoperative characteristics were not significantly different between the 2 groups after matching. No differences were found in 30-day/in-hospital mortality or morbidity outcomes. The only significant difference between the 2 groups was a shorter mean operative time in the RCP cohort (P = .01). No significant differences were noted in late survival (P = .90).

CONCLUSIONS

In proximal arch operations using DHCA, equivalent early and late outcomes can be achieved with RCP and ACP, although the mean operative time is significantly less with RCP, likely owing to avoidance of axillary cannulation. Questions remain regarding comparative outcomes with straight DHCA and lesser degrees of hypothermia.

Outcomes of acute type a dissection repair before and after implementation of a multidisciplinary thoracic aortic surgery program

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) repair before and after implementation of a multidisciplinary thoracic aortic surgery program (TASP) at our institution, with dedicated high-volume thoracic aortic surgeons, a multidisciplinary approach to thoracic aortic disease management, and a standardized protocol for ATAAD repair.

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of ATAAD repair may be improved when operations are performed at specialized high-volume thoracic aortic surgical centers.

METHODS

Between 1999 and 2011, 128 patients underwent ATAAD repair at our institution. Records of patients who underwent ATAAD repair 6 years before (n = 56) and 6 years after (n = 72) implementation of the TASP were retrospectively compared. Expected operative mortality rates were calculated using the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection pre-operative prediction model.

RESULTS

Baseline risk profiles and expected operative mortality rates were comparable between patients who underwent surgery before and after implementation of the TASP. Operative mortality before TASP implementation was 33.9% and was statistically equivalent to the expected operative mortality rate of 26.0% (observed-to-expected mortality ratio 1.30; p = 0.54). Operative mortality after TASP implementation fell to 2.8% and was statistically improved compared with the expected operative mortality rate of 18.2% (observed-to-expected mortality ratio 0.15; p = 0.005). Differences in survival persisted over long-term follow-up, with 5-year survival rates of 85% observed for TASP patients compared with 55% for pre-TASP patients (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

ATAAD repair can be performed with results approximating those of elective proximal aortic surgery when operations are performed by a high-volume multidisciplinary thoracic aortic surgery team. Efforts to standardize or centralize care of patients undergoing ATAAD are warranted.

Risk-adjusted survival after tissue versus mechanical aortic valve replacement: a 23-year assessment

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY

Detailed analyses of risk-adjusted outcomes after mitral valve surgery have documented significant survival decrements with tissue valves at any age. Several recent studies of prosthetic aortic valve replacement (AVR) also have suggested a poorer performance of tissue valves, although analyses have been limited to small matched series. The study aim was to test the hypothesis that AVR with tissue valves is associated with a lower risk-adjusted survival, as compared to mechanical valves.

METHODS

Between 1986 and 2009, primary isolated AVR, with or without coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), was performed with currently available valve types in 2148 patients (1108 tissue valves, 1040 mechanical). Patients were selected for tissue valves to be used primarily in the elderly. Baseline and operative characteristics were documented prospectively with a consistent variable set over the entire 23-year period. Follow up was obtained with mailed questionnaires, supplemented by National Death Index searches. The average time to death or follow up was seven years, and follow up for survival was 96.2% complete. Risk-adjusted survival characteristics for the two groups were evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model with stepwise selection of candidate variables.

RESULTS

Differences in baseline characteristics between groups were (tissue versus mechanical): median age 73 versus 61 years; non-elective surgery 32% versus 28%; CABG 45% versus 35%; median ejection fraction 55% versus 55%; renal failure 6% versus 1%; diabetes 18% versus 7% (p<0.01). Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier survival was significantly lower with tissue than mechanical valves; however, after risk adjustment for the adverse profiles of tissue valve patients, no significant difference was observed in survival after tissue or mechanical AVR. Thus, the hypothesis did not hold, and risk-adjusted survival was equivalent, of course qualified by the fact that selection bias was evident.

CONCLUSION

With selection criteria that employed tissue AVR more frequently in elderly patients, tissue and mechanical valves achieved similar survival characteristics across the spectrum of patient risk. Further studies of the relative outcomes of mechanical versus tissue valves across the spectrum of patient age seem indicated.

Frailty and risk in proximal aortic surgery

OBJECTIVES

Although frailty has recently been examined in various populations as a predictor of morbidity and mortality, its effect on thoracic aortic surgery outcomes has not been studied. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of frailty in predicting postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing proximal aortic replacement surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database was performed for all patients undergoing elective and nonelective proximal aortic operations (root, ascending aorta, and/or arch) at a single-referral institution from June 2005 to December 2012. A total of 581 patients underwent proximal aortic surgery, of whom 574 (98.8%) were included in the present analysis; 7 were excluded because of incomplete data. Frailty was evaluated using an index consisting of age >70 years, body mass index <18.5 kg/m(2), anemia, history of stroke, hypoalbuminemia, and total psoas volume in the bottom quartile of the population. One point was given for each criterion met to determine a frailty score of 0 to 6. Frailty was defined as a score of ≥2. Risk models for length of stay >14 days, discharge to other than home, 30-day composite major morbidity, 30-day composite major morbidity/mortality, and 30-day and 1-year mortality were calculated using multivariate regression modeling.

RESULTS

Of the 574 patients, 148 (25.7%) were defined as frail (frailty score ≥2). The unadjusted 30-day/in-hospital and long-term outcomes were significantly worse for the frail versus nonfrail patients in all but 1 of the outcomes analyzed; no difference was found in the 30-day readmission rates between the 2 groups. In the multivariate model, a frailty score of ≥2 was associated with discharge to other than home and 30-day and 1-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Frailty, as defined using a 6-component frailty index, can serve as an independent predictor of discharge disposition and early and late mortality risk in patients undergoing proximal aortic surgery. These frailty markers, all of which are easily assessed preoperatively, could provide valuable information for patient counseling and risk stratification before proximal aortic replacement.

Current outcomes for tricuspid valve infective endocarditis surgery in North America

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid valve (TV) infective endocarditis (IE) accounts for 15% of IE cases and usually is treated medically. Surgical intervention is rare, and understanding of treatment options is based on small series of patients. The purpose of this study was to describe the population and outcomes for isolated TV IE using The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Database.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2009, 910 operations for TV IE were performed. Procedures included replacement, repair, and valvectomy. Healed IE was present in 31.4% (n = 286), and active IE, in 68.5% (n = 624). Baseline patient characteristics as well as operative mortality and morbidity were analyzed, and univariate statistical differences were evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis test and stratum-adjusted Mantel-Haenszel χ(2) tests.

RESULTS

The median age was 40 years, with 50.6% male. Replacement of the TV was the most common procedure (n = 490; 53.8%), followed by TV repair (n = 354; 38.9%) and valvectomy (n = 66; 7.2%). Overall operative mortality was 7.3%, with no significant difference in mortality among valvectomy 12%, repair 7.6%, and replacement 6.3% (p = 0.34). Compared with the active group, healed patients experienced a trend toward lower operative mortality (4.2% versus 8.6%; p = 0.06), lower complication rates (35.6% versus 51.4%; p = 0.0004), and shorter overall length of stay (12 versus 22 days; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated TV operation for IE is a rare clinical entity with a similar operative mortality to left-sided IE operations. Repair and replacement of the TV had similar perioperative mortality. Patients in the healed TV IE group demonstrated lower complication rates, length of stay, and a trend toward decreased mortality.