[Ascending aortic disease: is general perception updated to current guidelines?]

BACKGROUND

Thoracic aorta diseases represent a frequent cause of hospitalization and up to 15% of workload of a modern cardiac surgery centre. A dedicated thoracic aorta disease clinic was launched at our Division in January 2020. The clinic was open for new referrals as well as for preoperative and postoperative follow-up of patients. Here we report a summary of the activity of such dedicated clinic correlated to current international guidelines.

METHODS

Overall, 288 patients were seen at the clinic: 84 (29%) new referrals; 28 (10%) for preoperative follow-up and 176 (61%) for postoperative follow-up. New referrals included urgent referral (n = 57, 68%) and scheduled referral (n = 27, 32%). The majority of urgent new referrals were from general practitioners (n = 34, 60%). Postoperative follow-up also included a minority (n = 27, 15%) of urgent referrals.

RESULTS

Within new referrals, according to current guidelines, only 7% (n = 6) had surgical indication at time of referral (40% of urgent referral); 34% (n = 28) were in the so-called grey zone and required close follow-up (26% of urgent referrals); 59% (n = 50) had no significant aortic disease to require neither urgent specialist consultation nor close follow-up (85% of urgent referrals). Within postoperative follow-up, 7% (n = 12) required surgical reintervention (none with urgent referral). Furthermore, the majority of new referrals (especially within urgent referrals) showed only moderate aortic dilation.

CONCLUSIONS

Current perception of clinical severity of thoracic aorta diseases is still suboptimal. Most patients are indeed referred as urgent despite non-significant aortic dilation. In contrast, potentially dangerous situations are frequently underestimated. An accurate territorial policy of sensitization and updating focused on thoracic aorta diseases is therefore essential in order to reduce the risks of acute aortic syndromes in our country.

Left atrium veno-arterial extra corporeal membrane oxygenation as temporary mechanical support for cardiogenic shock: A case report

BACKGROUND

Veno-arterial extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) support is commonly complicated with left ventricle (LV) distension in patients with cardiogenic shock. We resolved this problem by transeptally converting VA-ECMO to left atrium veno-arterial (LAVA)-ECMO that functioned as a temporary paracorporeal left ventricular assist device to resolve LV distension. In our case LAVA-ECMO was also functioning as a bridge-to-transplant device, a technique that has been scarcely reported in the literature.

CASE SUMMARY

A 65 year-old man suffered from acute myocardial injury that required percutaneous stents. Less than two weeks later, noncompliance to antiplatelet therapy led to stent thrombosis, cardiogenic shock, and cardiac arrest. Femoro-femoral VA-ECMO support was started, and the patient underwent a second coronary angiography with re-stenting and intra-aortic balloon pump placement. The VA-ECMO support was complicated by left ventricular distension which we resolved via LAVA-ECMO. Unfortunately, episodes of bleeding and sepsis complicated the clinical picture and the patient passed away 27 d after initiating VA-ECMO.

CONCLUSION

This clinical case demonstrates that LAVA-ECMO is a viable strategy to unload the LV without another invasive percutaneous or surgical procedure. We also demonstrate that LAVA-ECMO can also be weaned to a left ventricular assist device system. A benefit of this technique is that the procedure is potentially reversible, should the patient require VA-ECMO support again. A transeptal LV venting approach like LAVA-ECMO may be indicated over ImpellaTM in cases where less LV unloading is required and where a restrictive myocardium could cause LV suctioning. Left ventricular over-distention is a well-known complication of peripheral VA-ECMO in cardiogenic shock and LAVA ECMO through transeptal cannulation offers a novel and safe approach for treating LV overloading, without the need of an additional percutaneous access.

Aortic wall thickness in dilated ascending aorta: Comparison between tricuspid and bicuspid aortic valve

BACKGROUND

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is frequently associated with dilatation of the thoracic aorta. Peculiar anatomical, histological and mechanical changes of the aortic wall in BAV aortopathy have been hypothesized to suggest an increased risk of acute aortic complications in patients with BAV.

AIM

In this study we tried to clarify any differences in the adaptability of the aortic wall to the mechanism of dilatation between patients with BAV and those with TAV.

METHODS

In total, 354 samples were taken from 71 patients undergoing elective aortic surgery and divided into two groups: BAV group (n=16; 101 samples); and TAV group (n=55; 253 samples). Aortic wall thickness was measured with a dedicated caliper. The relationship between aortic wall thickness and aortic dilatation and demographic variables was evaluated cumulatively and comparatively (BAV versus TAV). In patients with more than three samples available, intrapatient variability was also studied. Finally, potential risk factors for severely reduced aortic wall thickness were also assessed.

RESULTS

Analysis of preoperative characteristics revealed significant differences in patient age (54±16years for BAV and 66±11years for TAV; P=0.0011), with no differences in variables related to aortic dilatation (including phenotype). Cumulative aortic wall thickness was significantly thinner in the anterior than in the posterior wall. In the comparative analysis, aortic wall thickness was significantly thinner in patients with BAV in both the anterior and posterior regions. Furthermore, in patients with BAV, dilatation>51mm was a significant predictor of severely reduced aortic wall thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, patients with BAV aortopathy reached the cut-off for the surgical indication at an early age. Careful monitoring in patients with BAV is mandatory when aortic dilatation has reached 51mm, as it is related to significant anatomical changes.

P42 ASCENDING AORTIC DISEASE: IS CURRENT GENERAL PERCEPTION UPDATED TO CURRENT GUIDELINES ??

Backgroud

Thoracic aorta diseases represent a frequent cause of hospitalization and up to 15% of workload of a modern Cardiac Surgery centre. To allow for an accurate monitoring of such activity a dedicated thoracic aorta diseases clinic was launched in January 2019 at our Division. Clinic was open for all new referrals (both by general pratictioner and different specialities clinic) as well as for follow–up of operated on patients. Here we report our analysis of new referrals during past 30 months.

Materials and Metods

237 overall patients were seen at clinic. 68 patients (29%) were new referrals; 23 patients (10%) were preoperative follow up and 145 (61%) were postoperative follow up. New referrals were divided in urgent referral (42 pts 62%) and scheduled referral (26 patients 38%). Out of 168 follow up, 22 (12%) were requested as urgent follow up. Majority of urgent new referral were from general pratictioner (21 pts 50%).

Results

Only 5 patients (2 urgent referral) had surgical indication at time of clinic assessment, according current guidelines. 23 patients (6 urgent referral) were in the so–called grey zone and required close follow–up). 40 patients (34 urgent referral) had no significant aortic diseases to require neither urgent specialist consultation or close follow–up. Out of 181 postoperative follow up, 12 patients required surgical re–intervention none of these were referred with matter of urgency. Despite 56% of new referral did not have recent CT scan evaluation, majority of new referral clearly showed moderate aortic dilatation especially in urgent referral (Fig 1). When considering indexed–dilatation, proportion of patient with moderate dilation raised even more (Fig 2).

Conclusions

Current perception of clinical severity of thoracic aorta diseases is still sub–optimal. Majority of patients are indeed referred as a matter of urgency despite non–significant aortic ectasia. On other hands, potentially dangerous situation are underestimated by the general practitioner and/or medical specialist. An accurate territorial policy of sensitization and updating about these pathologies is therefore essential to try to reduce the risks of acute aortic syndromes in our country.

P48 RETROSPECTIVE POSTOPERATIVE NEAR INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY MONITORING ANALYSIS TO DETECT POTENTIAL CRITERIA TO IMPROVE POSTOPERATIVE PREDICTION OF UNFAVOURABLE OUTCOME FOLLOWING AORTIC SURGERY

Objective

Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring has become a frequent practice during aortic surgery. The real impact of NIRS in predicting postoperative outcomes, however is still debated, as many cases of “false negative” with severe cerebral damage despite apparently normal NIRS monitoring during surgical procedure. We applied extended retrospective postoperative NIRS monitoring analysis in order to investigate potential criteria to enhance postoperative unfavorable outcome prediction. Materials and

Methods

Data of NIRS monitoring of 41 patients undergoing aortic surgery (19 acute dissection) were retrospectively analyzed. Partial circulatory arrest with selective bilateral (21 pts) or unilateral (20 pts) cerebral perfusion (CP) was used in all patients. Double channel (R and L) NIRS value was continuously recorded (every 30 sec) from anaesthetic induction to patient’s transfer to ICU. Postoperatively all data were downloaded in excel format and retrospectively analyzed. Baseline, maximum, and minimum value with percentage drop and R/L channel gap were all analyzed considering 5 different phases of surgery: before extracorporeal circulation (EC); in EC before circulatory arrest and selective cerebral perfusion (CA–SCP); in EC following CA–SCP, following EC. Overall time <25% (in each channel) or with a > 20% gap were also evaluated.

Results

Overall 661±125 values were recorded for each patient. Baseline value on the Left (61±7) was significantly lower then Right (66±12). Maximum drop did not differed in two channels (Fig 1a) but varied according surgical phases (Fig 1). R/L asymmetry also varied according surgical phases with a peak value during rewarming and not during CA–SCP despite unilateral SCP and complexity of procedure (Figure 2 and 3).

Conclusion

Extended postoperative analysis of NIRS recorded value shows different trend and behavior according surgical phase and cerebral perfusion strategy. Accurate extended NIRS analysis is therefore mandatory in order to improve knowledge of physiological cerebral perfusion during SCP and early identification of patients at high risk of postoperative cerebral complications.

C16 PROPENSITY SCORE COMPARISON OF ELASTIN–BASED AND COLLAGEN–BASED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF AORTIC WALL IN BICUSPID VS TRICUSPID AORTIC VALVE PATIENTS UNDERGOING AORTIC SURGERY

Objective

Several studies addressed characteristics of aortic wall in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) compared to those with tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). Different patients population and lack of randomization were the main limitations in many of such studies, focused furthermore, only on ultimate properties (at rupture). In this study we compared mechanical properties in BAV and TAV patients undergoing aortic surgery using propensity score analysis to obtain two homogeneous groups of patients. We also focused on both elastin–based and collagen–based mechanical properties.

Methods

Among 87 overall patients undergoing surgery of ascending aorta, 26 were selected, following propensity score analysis, and divided in 2 groups according the type of native aortic valve (13 BAV and 13 TAV). Mechanical tests were completed following circumferential and longitudinal force application. 137 cumulative tests were accepted (93 from anterior aortic wall). Aortic wall strain (marker of elasticity) and aortic wall stress (marker of strength) were measured either in the Elastin–based (initial) distension and in the Collagen–based ultimate distension (until rupture).

Results

Cumulative comparison of specimens thickness confirmed that anterior aortic wall is thinner in BAV patients. Aortic wall thickness, however was not correlated to any of mechanical tests in Elastin–based or Collagen–based distensions. Aortic wall elasticity and strength (applying either longitudinal and circumferential force) were not different in BAV compared to TAV patients. Initial and ultimate elasticity were significantly correlated either applying circumferential and longitudinal force. Direct correlation between initial and ultimate strength, on other hands, was showed only in BAV patients when a longitudinal force was applied.

Conclusions

We clearly showed that, in dilated aorta, anterior wall is thinner in case of BAV compared to TAV. Our study, furthermore, confirms that mechanical properties of aortic wall in BAV patients are no impaired, compared to an homogeneous group of TAV patients, neither in initial or ultimate tests. Elastin–based and collagen–based aortic wall mechanical properties (under circumferential force) are directly correlated regardless BAV presence. Lack of correlation between initial and ultimate strenght in TAV patients, under a longitudinal force, needs further evaluation as it could be related to an increased frailty of aortic wall in such conditions.

Early remdesivir to prevent severe COVID-19 in recipients of solid organ transplant: a real-life study from Northern Italy

Objectives

The effectiveness of a 3-day course of remdesivir to prevent severe disease in patients with COVID-19 who received solid organ transplant (SOT) is unknown. We wanted to study the efficacy of this therapeutic option in patients with COVID-19 who received SOT in preventing both hospitalizations for outpatients and clinical worsening due to COVID-19 for those already hospitalized for other reasons.

Methods

This is a single-center, retrospective, observational study conducted in the Fondazione IRCSS Policlinico San Matteo of Pavia, Northern Italy. We extracted all the data of patients with COVID-19 receiving SOT who received and did not receive pre-emptive remdesivir between December 23, 2021, and February 26, 2022. We used a Cox proportional hazard model to assess whether receiving pre-emptive remdesivir was associated with lower rates of hospitalization.

Results

A total of 24 patients who received SOT were identified. Among these, seven patients (29, 1%) received pre-emptive remdesivir, whereas 17 (70, 9%) patients did not. Receiving remdesivir significantly reduced the hospitalization rate in outpatients who received SOT and the clinical worsening of the condition of already hospitalized patients who received SOT (hazard ratio 0.05; confidence interval [0.00–0.65], P-value = 0.01).

Conclusion

In our cohort of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 who received SOT, pre-emptive remdesivir was effective in reducing the hospitalization rate due to COVID-19 and in preventing the clinical worsening of the condition of patients who received SOT who were hospitalized for reasons other than COVID-19.

[ANMCO Position paper: Care pathway for advanced heart failure patients candidate for heart transplantation/ventricular assist device]

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome with a severe prognosis, despite therapeutic progress. The management of the advanced stages of the syndrome is particularly complex in patients who are referred to palliative care as well as in those who are candidates for cardiac replacement therapy. For the latter group, a prompt recognition of the transition to the advanced stage as well as an early referral to the centers for cardiac replacement therapy are essential elements to ensure that patients follow the most appropriate diagnostic-therapeutic pathway. The aim of this document is to focus on the main diagnostic and therapeutic aspects related to the advanced stages of heart failure and, in particular, on the management of patients who are candidates for cardiac replacement therapy.

631 First vs. second generation drug-eluting STNET in heart transplant patients with cardiac allograft vasculopathy: a single centre experience

Aims

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) remains the ‘Achilles’ heel’ of successful long-term outcome after heart transplantation (HTx). Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with bare-metal stents (BMS) and first (I) generation drug-eluting stents (DES) has been previously considered as a palliative treatment option in this setting, for the higher rate of restenosis and the lack of a survival benefit over medical therapy. Few data on the performance of second (II) generation DES in CAV are currently available. Our study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of PCI with I and II generation DES in patients with CAV.

Methods and results

All consecutive heart transplant patients who underwent urgent or elective PCI with I or II generation DES between 2003 and 2020 at Foundation IRCCS Polyclinic San Matteo (Pavia) were enrolled. The extent of revascularization for each patient was assessed calculating the post-procedural residual SYNTAX score. The primary endpoint was a composite of MACE [any myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death and target vessel revascularization (TVR)] at 3-year. The secondary endpoint was target lesion failure (TLF) at 3-year—composite of cardiovascular death, target vessel myocardial infarction (TV-MI) and target lesion revascularization (TLR). A total of 90 transplant patients (113 coronary lesions) were included: 28 patients (32 lesions) were treated with I generation DES and 62 patients (81 lesions) with II generation DES. No differences between the two study groups were identified in term of number of stents per patient implanted (overall 1.63 ± 0.87, P-value = 0.628), total stent length per patient [overall 26 (25th–75th : 18–44) mm, P-value = 0.486], pre-PCI [overall 8 (25th–75th: 5–15), P-value = 0.286], and post-PCI residual [overall 1.5 (25th–75th: 0–4), P-value = 0.187] SYNTAX score. In the whole study population, the primary and secondary endpoints occurred in 28 (33%) and 23 (27%) cases respectively, with a 3-year Kaplan–Meier estimate of freedom from MACE of 64%, and from TLF of 71%. No statistical differences between the two study arms were found (MACE log-rank test P-value = 0.269, TLF log-rank test P-value = 0.260). At multivariate Cox regression analysis, while treatment with II generation DES was confirmed to not predict the risk of MACE (HR: 0.70, CI: 0.32–1.5, P-value = 0.368), a borderline significant higher rate of events was found in patients with a post-PCI residual SYNTAX score >8 (HR: 2.37, CI: 0.98–5.73, P-value = 0.054). However, patients treated with II generation DES experienced a lower rate of TVR (3-year Kaplan-Meier estimate of freedom from TVR I generation DES 69% vs. II generation DES 85%, log-rank test P-value = 0.058, univariate Cox regression analysis HR: 0.4, CI: 0.13–1.07, P-value = 0.069).

Conclusions

In heart transplant patients with CAV, compared with I generation DES, PCI with II generation DES did not show to reduce the risk of MACE and TLF, guaranteeing however a lower rate of TVR. In this complex clinical scenario, incomplete revascularization (defined as a residual post-PCI SYNTAX score > 8) was associated with worse outcome at 3-year follow-up.

Long-term follow-up of heart transplant patients treated with permanent pacemaker: a monocentric study

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background and purpose

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMi) is needed in about 5% of patients following heart transplant (HTx) primarily due to sinus node dysfunction (SND), which commonly occurs in an early phase, or to atrio-ventricular block (ABV), which is common later on. Currently, data on rate of ventricular pacing (VP) is lacking and little is known on long-term outcomes after PPMi.

Methods

This was a retrospective, monocentric study. Among 1123 patients treated with HTx, all with biatrial technique, from november 1985 to march 2019 at our institution, 61 (5.4%) patients needed PPMi. PM parameters, clinical and echocardiographic data were collected at 1 month and at 1-3-5-10 years follow-up. The primary aim was to analyse the percentage of right ventricular pacing in the overall population and in subgroups stratified by the timing of PPMi and by pacing indication. Secondary endpoints were to analyze long-term outcomes according to the percentage of ventricular pacing and to the type of implanted PM (single vs. dual chamber). 

Results

Among patients treated with PPMi (68.9% single-chamber), 62.2% were implanted for SND and 36% for AVB. Early PPMi (< 3 months after HTx), occurred in 34.4% of patients, mainly due to SND, while late PPMi (> 3 months after HTx) occurred in 65,6% with an equal distribution between SND and AVB. Median follow-up time from HTx was 140 months and 82 months from PPMi. Overall mean rate of VP was 21%. Rate of VP was higher in patients implanted early rather than late after HTx, both at 1 month (91% vs 2%, P = 0,002) and at 1 year after the procedure (43 vs 1, P = 0,037). Patients with AVB had a greater rate of VP compared to those implanted for SND, irrespective of timing of implantation and these findings were still present at 3 and 5 years follow-up (62 vs 1%, P = 0,011 at 3 years and 80 vs 6%, P = 0,002 at 5 years). VP declined progressively after PPM implantation. No differences were observed in terms of 10-years mortality between early vs late PPMi, dual vs single-chamber and mean VP > 21% vs ≤ 21%.

Conclusions

Patients treated with PPMi after HTx show on average low percentage of VP over long-term follow-up. AV block indication and early implantation are associated with a higher percentage of VP. The rate of VP, the timing of PPMi and the use of single vs dual chamber PM do not affect overall prognosis or left ventricular systolic function. Our data may justify implantation of a single-chamber PPM, which bears less complications and procedural time, in the majority of HTx patients needing PPMi.

Is it time for a paradigm shift: Should double-lung transplant be considered the treatment of choice for idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and giant pulmonary aneurysm?

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare condition, frequently complicated by pulmonary arteries' aneurysm. Aggressive medical therapy is often unsatisfactory and lung transplantation remains the only option. We report a unique case of severe idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension complicated by a giant pulmonary aneurism, massive pulmonary valve regurgitation, and right ventricle dysfunction. The patient was, as our first choice, listed for heart-lung transplantation and remained in emergency list for more than 7 months. Unfortunately, due to further clinical deterioration and the unavailability of a heart-lung bloc, plan B was mandatory. The patient underwent a combined procedure including: double lung transplant, pulmonary artery plasty, and sutureless pulmonary valve prosthesis with open deployment (first-in-man use in such scenario). Postoperative outcome was uneventful. Our thought is that double lung transplantation and conventional combined pulmonary artery/valve surgery should be considered as the first option avoiding excessive waiting times and potential further clinical deterioration.

[Early diagnosis and management of cardiac allograft vasculopathy: is it time for a standardized approach?]

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) still represents the main cause of long-term graft loss after heart transplantation. Its silent clinical presentation makes an early identification difficult, with relevant implications for a standardized follow-up. Although technological advances have provided sophisticated non-invasive techniques for CAV assessment, intravascular ultrasound in conjunction with coronary angiography is still the gold standard to detect rapidly progressive CAV and to provide prognostic information during follow-up. Current guidelines recommend annual coronary angiography during the first 5 years and every 2 years thereafter. Although commonly performed, coronary angiography has multiple limitations, especially in young patients and in case of chronic kidney disease. This article aims to review the literature about the monitoring of CAV and to propose an ideal and individualized pathway for early diagnosis of CAV in transplanted patients, based on their cardiovascular risk.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for COVID-19 Respiratory Distress Syndrome: An Italian Society for Cardiac Surgery Report

An increased need of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is going to become evident as treatment of SARS-CoV-2 respiratory distress syndrome. This is the first report of the Italian Society for Cardiac Surgery (SICCH) on preliminary experience with COVID-19 patients receiving ECMO support. Data from 12 Italian hospitals participating in SICCH were retrospectively analyzed. Between March 1 and September 15, 2020, a veno-venous (VV) ECMO system was installed in 67 patients (94%) and a veno-arterio-venous ECMO in four (6%). Five patients required VA ECMO after initial weaning from VV ECMO. Thirty (42.2%) patients were weaned from ECMO, while 39 (54.9%) died on ECMO, and six (8.5%) died after ECMO removal. Overall hospital survival was 36.6% (n = 26). Main causes of death were multiple organ failure (n = 14, 31.1%) and sepsis (n = 11, 24.4%). On multivariable analysis, predictors of death while on ECMO support were older age (p = 0.048), elevated pre-ECMO C-reactive protein level (p = 0.048), higher positive end-expiratory pressure on ventilator (p = 0.036) and lower lung compliance (p = 0.032). If the conservative treatment is not effective, ECMO support might be considered as life-saving rescue therapy for COVID-19 refractory respiratory failure. However warm caution and thoughtful approaches for timely detection and treatment should be taken for such a delicate patients population.

Acute massive pulmonary embolism during patient repositioning following excision of a thymic carcinoma in a patient affected by cryoglobulinemia

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a well-described complication following surgical procedures. The incidence of such a complication can be related to the presence of a peculiar patient's condition. Cryoglobulinemia, which consists in the presence of one or more immunoglobulins in the serum that precipitate at temperatures below 37°C and redissolve on warming, seems to increase the risk of thrombotic events. Treatment options of APE, according to clinical severity, include systemic thrombolysis, surgical embolectomy, and systemic anticoagulation. Thrombolysis is considered the first-line treatment, whereas surgery is reserved in case of extremely-compromised hemodynamic conditions related to massive central embolism, and in case of contraindication to thrombolysis. Here, we report a case of acute massive pulmonary embolism occurring at the end of a surgical procedure for a thymic carcinoma resection, in a patient with cryoglobulinemia, which required an emergent surgical pulmonary embolectomy.

Calcineurin Inhibitor-Based Immunosuppression and COVID-19: Results from a Multidisciplinary Cohort of Patients in Northern Italy

The role of immunosuppression in SARS-CoV-2-related disease (COVID-19) is a matter of debate. We here describe the course and the outcome of COVID-19 in a cohort of patients undergoing treatment with calcineurin inhibitors. In this monocentric cohort study, data were collected from the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy up to April 28th 2020. Patients were followed at our hospital for solid organ transplantation or systemic rheumatic disorders (RMDs) and were on calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based therapy. Selected patients were referred from the North of Italy. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical course of COVID-19 in this setting. We evaluated 385 consecutive patients (220 males, 57%; median age 61 years, IQR 48-69); 331 (86%) received solid organ transplantation and 54 (14%) had a RMD. CNIs were the only immunosuppressant administered in 47 patients (12%). We identified 14 (4%) COVID-19 patients, all transplanted, mainly presenting with fever (86%) and diarrhea (71%). Twelve patients were hospitalized and two of them died, both with severe comorbidities. No patients developed acute respiratory distress syndrome or infectious complications. The surviving 10 patients are now fully recovered. The clinical course of COVID-19 patients on CNIs is generally mild, and the risk of superinfection seems low.

Myocardial localization of coronavirus in COVID-19 cardiogenic shock

We describe the first case of acute cardiac injury directly linked to myocardial localization of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in a 69‐year‐old patient with flu‐like symptoms rapidly degenerating into respiratory distress, hypotension, and cardiogenic shock. The patient was successfully treated with venous‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and mechanical ventilation. Cardiac function fully recovered in 5 days and ECMO was removed. Endomyocardial biopsy demonstrated low‐grade myocardial inflammation and viral particles in the myocardium suggesting either a viraemic phase or, alternatively, infected macrophage migration from the lung.

Long-Term Effects of the Replacement of Calcineurin Inhibitors With Everolimus and Mycophenolate in Patients With Calcineurin Inhibitor-Related Nephrotoxicity

BACKGROUND

There is little evidence on the long-term effects of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) withdrawal and substitution with everolimus and mycophenolate mofetil in maintenance therapy of patients who have received heart transplants and have concurrent CNI nephrotoxicity. Aims of this study were to evaluate the progression of renal dysfunction after discontinuation of CNIs and to monitor for major adverse events after therapy change.

METHODS

Data from 41 patients who underwent heart transplant and have different degrees of renal dysfunction (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL/min/1.73 m²), without evidence of proteinuria, and in whom CNI therapy was replaced by everolimus, were analyzed. At the time of CNI withdrawal, clinical parameters, echocardiographic data, blood tests of renal function, and monitoring of adverse events were recorded. The median follow-up period was 5 years ± 28 months.

RESULTS

In 52% of patients, there was a clear improvement in renal function (10.5 mL/min/1.73 m² of extra eGFR on average). The former were characterized by less advanced age and a short time from the heart transplant. The echocardiographic parameters showed a significant reduction in septum thickness (11.58 ± 2 mm vs 10.29 ± 2 mm; P = .0001) and in left ventricle posterior wall thickness (10.74 ± 1 mm vs 9.74 ± 1 mm; P = .0004). The incidence of late acute rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy was similar in our population compared to literature data.

CONCLUSIONS

A therapeutic switch from CNIs to everolimus and mycophenolate mofetil can improve renal function in patients with CNI nephrotoxicity, especially in those with a shorter time period from transplantation, without exposing them to a higher incidence of late acute rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy.

Multidisciplinary preoperative simulations to optimize surgical outcomes in a challenging case of the complete double aortic arch in the adult

BACKGROUND

Challenging surgical cases are becoming more and more frequent, making the optimization of decision making process and an accurate preoperative planning mandatory in order to improve postoperative outcomes.

AIMS

Here we present an original multidisciplinary approach aimed at optimizing decision making in a peculiar case of double aortic arch (DAA) presenting in an adult patient.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following the diagnosis of DAA, based on conventional exams, a three steps engineering simulation was adopted including: a) three-dimensional (3D) rapid prototype simulation; b) computational fluid-dynamic analysis; c) 3D virtual simulation of surgical exposure.

RESULTS

Based on careful evaluation of such simulations we were able to identify optimal anatomical and functional surgical options, along with the optimal surgical approach.

DISCUSSION

In peculiar clinical case, a significant step forward to optimize preoperative surgical planning could be obtained applying current available engineering techniques.

CONCLUSION

We do believe that a multidisciplinary approach could become mandatory, in challenging cases, to optimize preoperative planning and outcomes.

P5416A single-center, thirty-year experience of heart transplantation: analysis of the evolution of patients profile and long term outcomes

Background

Heart Transplantation is still the gold standard therapy for patients suffering from end-stage cardiomyopathy and has been successfully performed in our center since 1985. Over this 30 years period there has been a significant evolution in patients characteristics and in candidate selection (either as a donor and as recipient) as shown by the recent benchmark from International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT). Here we analyze the evolution of patients profile in our population and we correlated such evolution to the clinical outcomes and to the overall data from ISHLT.

Materials and methods

Overall 1122 patients underwent heart transplantation at our center from November 19th1985 to date. To analyze the evolution patients profile and donor criteria, patient population was divided in 4 groups according era of transplantation following ISHLT model (Group A from 1985 to 1991; Group B from 1992 to 2003; Group C from 2004 to 2008 and Group D from 2009 to date). Patients characteristics at time of transplantation, donor criteria ad clinical outcomes were analyzed and compared within 4 groups. An overall comparison of our results to the data from ISHLT was also performed.

Results

Overall Kaplan-Meier survival curve correlates favourably with ISHLT data showing a 20 years survival approaching 40%. Patients age at transplantation changed significantly among 4 groups from a median of 49 years (95% CI 47 to 51) in Group A to 54 years (95% CI 50 to 57) in Group D (p<0.001). Likewise donor age also changed significantly from a median of 24 years (95% CI 22 to 28) in Group A to 43 years (95% CI 39 to 47) in group D (p<0.001). Time on waiting list also changed significantly from a median of 115 days (95% CI 94 to 137) in Group A to 293 (95% CI 200 to 401) in Group D (p<0.001). As a marker of evolution of accepted donor criteria also ischemic time changed from 125±52 minutes of Group A to 153±61 minutes of Group D (p<0.001). As showed in Fig 1, Kaplan-Meier survival curves demonstrated a worse 1-year survival in Group D compared to others 3 Group.

Figure 1

Conclusions

The significant changing characteristics of both recipients and donors, over 30 years of activity, had a significant impact in early (1 year) postoperative survival following heart transplantation. Although medium/long term outcomes are still satisfactory in patients surviving at least 1 year, these data clearly suggest a more accurate patients selection and the need of alternative treatment before patients conditions deteriorate while on waiting list for heart transplantation

6118Mid- and long-term percentage of ventricular pacing in patients implanted with a pacemaker after a transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure: potential clinical implications

Background

Cardiac conduction disturbances frequently occur following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). As this procedure is getting more and more common, more research efforts should focus on post procedural rhythm disturbances and their evolution over time

Purpose

To evaluate the percentage of pacing in patients who underwent a TAVR procedure and developed a conduction disturbance requiring a transvenous pacemaker (PM) implantation

Methods

We considered all the patients who underwent a TAVR procedure between march 2009 and november 2018 in our centre. Patients implanted with a PM or an ICD before the TAVR procedure or 30 days after the TAVR were not considered eligible for our analysis, because likely not related to TAVR. The percentage of effective right ventricular pacing was assessed both at mid- and long-term follow-up

Results

265 patients underwent TAVR in the study period (45% males, 81±6 years). 20 patients already had a PM and were excluded. 39 of the 245 patients (16%) were implanted with a PM after TAVR, 26 of them were implanted within 30 days (median time TAVR-PM implant: 8±7 days). The rate of PM implant within 30 days after TAVR was 8% (20/246) for patients implanted with an Edward Sapien valve, 25% (4/16) for patients with an Evolute Pro valve and 66% (2/3) in patients with a Lotus Edge valve. The indication for PM implant was a permanent 3rd degree A-V block in 12 patients, a paroxysmal A-V block in 4, a bifascicular A-V block with an infra-hisian disease in 5, a II degree Mobitz II A-V block in 2, an atrial fibrillation with slow A-V conduction in 2 and a 2:1 A-V block with infra-hisian disease in 1. The first follow-up after the PM implantation was available in 24 patients (mean 78±87 days after PM implant) and the second in 15 patients (372±267 days after PM implant). The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence/absence of permanent 3rd degree AV block at the time of implantation. At the first follow-up the percentage of pacing was significantly higher in patients implanted with vs. without a permanent 3rd degree AV block (98.5% vs 11%, p<0.001). Notably, in none of the patients without a permanent 3rd AV block at baseline conduction disturbances progressed toward a permanent AV block during long-term follow-up. Accordingly, at the second follow-up patients without permanent 3rd AV block at baseline showed a significantly lower percentage of pacing (1% vs 100%; p<0.01)

Conclusion

Patients implanted with a PM after TAVR in the absence of a permanent 3rd AV block have a very low likelihood of progression to a permanent AV conduction disturbance and show a negligible percentage of pacing during follow-up. Our results may impact the choice of the correct timing of PM implantation after TAVR and the potential indication for a leadless PM.

P1856Percutaneous mitral edge-to-edge valvuloplasty in end-stage heart failure as a bridge to heart transplant: a case series from a single tertiary referral center

Background

Improved outcomes after percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valvuloplasthy with MitraClip implantation were recently observed in patients with heart failure (HF) and functional severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Nonetheless, its efficacy in end-stage heart failure (HF) are lacking.

Purpose

Our aim was to investigate feasibility, preliminary efficacy on hemodynamics and follow-up of MitraClip implantation in a cohort of patients with very advanced HF.

Methods

Patients were retrospectively included in the present analysis if already in HT list, unsuitable for HT despite optimal medical and device therapy, or if implantation was a “bridge-to-candidacy”.

Results

Baseline and procedural characteristics are listed in Table 1; MR etiology was predominantly functional (n=7). No major complications were observed in the peri-operative period. At 6-month follow-up, invasive hemodynamics was available for 8 patients. A significant increase in cardiac index was observed (Least Square Mean Difference, LSMD = +0.47 L/min/m2; p=0.03; Figure 1), in conjunction with a numerical reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance (LSMD = −1.02 WU; p=0.3), a trend towards lower mean pulmonary arterial pressure (LSMD = −6.5 mmHg; p=0.053) and lower ejection fraction (LSMD = −6.5%; p=0.053). At a median follow-up of 772 days (IQR 156–1,578), all three patients unsuitable for HT at baseline could be eligible to HT list and one of them received LVAD. Moreover, two patients were transplanted, four experienced unplanned rehospitalization for HF, and one died of non-cardiac cause.

Table 1. Baseline clinical evaluation (n=10) Age (y) 53.67±8.43 HF Etiology – post ischemic 4 (40) Male sex 6 (60) HF Etiology – no CAD 4 (40) Body Surface Area (m2) 1.76±0.22 HF Etiology – other 2 (20) Chronic Resynchronization Therapy 5 (50) Euroscore II 6.00±2.74 Baseline MR grade (+) 4 (40) STS mortality 1.71±2.65 Residual MR grade (+) 1.71±0.49 Clips implanted (number) 1.78±0.67 Data are expressed as mean ± SD or count (valid %). MR scored on a scale from 0+ to 4+. STS, Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

Figure 1

Conclusions

Percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valvuloplasty with MitraClip appears safe and effective in end-stage patients, impacts on clinical decision-making and therefore might be considered as a “bridge” towards a more definite strategy.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

Subcutaneous ICD implantation in a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after transvenous ICD failure: A case report

We describe the case of a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who experienced the failure of a transvenous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (T‐ICD) lead and the following inability of a second T‐ICD to convert a ventricular fibrillation. A subcutaneous ICD (S‐ICD) was finally implanted and was effective at defibrillation test.

Cardiac rehabilitation and mid-term follow-up after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of patient outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has usually been based on survival and clinical improvement. Studies on quality of life are limited, and data from comprehensive assessments after the procedure are lacking.

METHODS

Sixty patients referred for cardiac rehabilitation after TAVI underwent in-hospital and after-discharge multidimensional assessments to evaluate clinical, functional, and nutritional statuses, degree of autonomy, cognitive impairment, depression and quality of life.

RESULTS

On admission to rehabilitation, approximately half of the patients had severe functional impairment and dependence for basic activities of daily living. During their hospital stay, one-third of the patients suffered significant clinical complications and two had to be transferred to the implantation center. Despite this, the overall outcome was very good. All of the remaining patients were clinically stable at discharge and functional status, autonomy and quality of life were improved in most. During a mean follow-up of 540 days (range: 192-738 days), five patients died from noncardiac causes, three were hospitalized for cardiac events, and nine for non cardiac reasons. Functional status and autonomy remained satisfactory in the majority of patients and most continued to live independently.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients referred for rehabilitation after TAVI are often very frail, with a high grade of functional impairment, dependence on others and high risk of clinical complications. During a rehabilitation programme, based on a multidimensional assessment and intervention, most patients showed significant improvement in functional status, quality of life, and autonomy, which remained stable in the majority of subjects during mid-term follow-up.

[Surgical therapy of coronary artery disease in the Italian cardiac surgery centers]

BACKGROUND

We conducted a national survey on surgical therapy for coronary artery disease and its complications, with the aim to eventually identify differences in the processes of care adopted in the Italian cardiac surgery centers.

METHODS

Eighty-seven Italian cardiac surgery units received a questionnaire about their general activity profile and the following interest areas: (a) surgical myocardial revascularization techniques; (b) ischemic mitral regurgitation treatment; (c) left ventricular reconstruction procedures; (d) mechanical circulatory support and heart transplantation in ischemic cardiomyopathy.

RESULTS

Forty-one Centers (47.1%) returned a completely filled questionnaire. The analysis of the answers showed differences in the therapeutic approaches adopted in the various centers regarding: choice of surgical technique and grafts for myocardial revascularization; propensity to treat moderate ischemic mitral regurgitation in the setting of severe left ventricular dysfunction; propensity to treat extended myocardial scars; treatment options in ischemic cardiomyopathy with advanced heart failure. The specific center profile (volume of activity, availability of heart transplantation) seems to influence the choice among the different treatment options.

CONCLUSIONS

This study may contribute to show and analyze existing differences in clinical practice between different centers. Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches (processes of care) should be frequently monitored in order to promptly single out critical areas necessitating review or further researches, to standardize decision making criteria, and to improve care appropriateness.

Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Assessment of a Patient Supported by Intravascular Blood Pump Impella Recover 100

Impella Recover 100 is an intravascular microaxial blood pump designed for short-term circulatory support in conditions of reduced left ventricular function. Two-dimensional echocardiography is a consolidated tool to study and monitor patients undergoing circulatory support. Three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography is emerging as a source of more accurate analysis in heart morphology and function. We described the use of 3D echocardiography in a patient who underwent Impella recover 100 support for postcardiotomy shock. 3D echocardiography allowed complete visualization of the pump and provided excellent intraoperative assessment of the complex spatial location into the left ventricle.

[Comorbidity in surgical myocardial revascularization: risk factors or contraindications for surgery]

BACKGROUND

The worsening evolution of patients undergoing surgical myocardial revascularization makes it difficult the stratification of the preoperative mortality risk, a correct evaluation of results and the comparison of results of different centers. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic weight of comorbidity in surgical myocardial revascularization.

METHODS

We evaluated the characteristics of preoperative morbidity in 4999 patients who underwent surgical myocardial revascularization during four different periods (1979-1980, 1991-1992, 1994-1998, 1999-2002). We also evaluated the in-hospital results.

RESULTS

By comparing the four different periods, an increase in older age, female sex, comorbidity, three-vessel disease, and severe left ventricular dysfunction was observed. Surgical mortality decreased to 2.3%. Multivariate analysis of the 1999-2002 period showed that only renal insufficiency was a risk factor for in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the preoperative risk is higher, nowadays hospital mortality is reduced thanks to new cardiac-surgical techniques and approaches that increasing the capacity of controlling comorbidity in the pre-, intra- and postoperative course. For a correct decision-making process it is crucial to assess how much comorbidity may influence the long-term follow-up in these patients independently of surgical myocardial revascularization.

Congenital intrapericardial aneurysm of the left atrial appendage

Congenital aneurysmal dilatation of the left atrial appendage is a rare but correctable lesion. It represents a diagnostic dilemma in patients with cardiomegaly and is commonly associated with supraventricular arrhythmias and life-threatening systemic embolization. We describe the diagnostic evaluation and surgical treatment during 1997 of a patient with congenital aneurysmal dilatation of the left atrial appendage. The patient was discharged previously from our hospital in 1967 with the diagnosis of congenital dilatation of the pulmonary artery.

Assessment of CABG-related risk in patients with CAD and LVD. Contribution of PET with [18F]FDG to the assessment of myocardial viability

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that hibernating myocardium can be assessed by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) and positron emission tomography (PET). This study evaluated the use of [18F]FDG-PET for CABG related risk assessment in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and left ventricle dysfunction (LVD).

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 241 to patients candidate CABG presenting with signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) prevailing over ischemic signs. Of the 241 patients, 153 had undergone [18F]FDG-PET as well as conventional assessment: 110 out of 153 (group A) were operated because of PET evidence of hibernation. Of the 241 patients, 88 had not undergone [18F]FDG-PET: 86 out of 88 (group B) were operated on. The outcome of surgical patients was evaluated by considering all major perioperative complications including the use of mechanical and pharmacological support and in-hospital mortality. After hospital discharge, each patient was examined at 1, 4 and every 6 months thereafter.

RESULTS

Perioperative use of mechanical supports and inotropic drugs, was significantly lower for the PET selected group (A) than for the non PET selected group (B). Mortality within 30 days of surgery was 0.9% in group A and 19.8% in group B. The only predictors of perioperative outcome were the presence of hibernating tissue and the ejection fraction.

CONCLUSIONS

[18F]FDG-PET prior to CABG can be crucial for the assessment of perioperative risk in patients with CAD.

Combined carotid and cardiac procedures: improved results and surgical approach

Severe cerebrovascular complications following cardiac surgical procedures remain a major concern, particularly in patients with significant carotid atherosclerotic involvement (14% of perioperative stroke). Operative mortality for carotid operations in patients with documented Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) may be as high as 20%. Seventy patients underwent combined operations (unilateral carotid stenosis > 70%, unilateral stenosis > 50% with ulcerated plaque or bilateral stenoses > 50%; and this also included patients with unilateral occlusion). Cardiac procedures were 69 coronary artery bypass grafts, four left ventricular aneurysmectomies, three aortic valve replacements and surgery on two mitral valves. Seven perioperative deaths occurred, which were all caused by cardiac events. There were no perioperative strokes. Carotid endarterectomy immediately before cardiopulmonary bypass is a safe and expeditious approach to coexisting significant cardiac and carotid disease. In our experience, technical details in monitoring and minimizing cerebral ischemia are possibly more crucial in these severe vasculopathic patients. Moreover, it is probably advantageous from an economic standpoint compared with other therapeutic treatments.

Mycotic aortic aneurysm presenting as multiple cerebral abscesses

A 68-year-old male presented with multiple cerebral abscesses. Possible intrathoracic embolic sources were not detected by echocardiography and chest radiography and the main lesion was surgically excised. Following deterioration of the neurological status, computerized tomography performed 2 weeks later revealed a mycotic aneurysm of the ascending aorta, probably related to a previous cardiac operation. This is the first case in the literature of aortic infection presenting as multiple brain abscesses.

Surgery of cavo-atrial renal carcinoma employing circulatory arrest: immediate and mid-term results

From 1990 to 1995, 12 patients with cavo-atrial renal cell carcinoma underwent resection of the tumor. Circulatory arrest was employed in 11/12 cases. The neoplasm extended to the inferior vena cava in two patients and to the intrahepatic veins or right atrium in five cases. Two severely cardiac compromised patients died perioperatively. Of five patients who showed preoperative suspicion of isolated metastases, 3 patients died postoperatively because of relapsing disease after a mean period of 10.8 months. Five patients are alive and doing well after a mean follow-up of 14.8 months. In our experience myocardial dysfunction determined poor immediate survival. Mid-term survival was influenced by preoperative metastases and lymph-node involvement, but not by intracaval extension. Circulatory arrest appears to be a relatively safe technique to remove renal carcinoma with cavo-atrial extension and should be indicated whenever there are no metastases.

Aortic diverticulum without vascular ring: a rare cause of dysphagia

In an adult with severe dysphagia, diagnosis of aneurysmal aberrant subclavian artery was suspected on computed tomogram; no vascular ring was visible on arteriogram. A diverticulum of the aortic isthmus was surgically resected. Histologic analysis ruled out acquired disease. In conclusion, dysphagia related to esophageal compression may be caused by an isolated congenital aortic diverticulum.

Primary cardiac malignancy presenting as left atrial myxoma. Clinical and surgical considerations

Primary heart neoplasms occur in 0.002-0.3% of autopsies: 30% are myxomas and 20-30% are malignancies, almost always sarcomas. Cardiac metastases are 10 to 40 times more frequent than primary heart cancer. We describe a case of a left atrial sarcoma erroneously diagnosed as myxomas preoperatively. Standard surgical indication for resection of cardiac myxomas is based on echocardiography. Because of the severity of cardiac malignant lesions than can mimic atrial myxomas at echocardiography, through preoperative investigation should be accomplished, best by magnetic resonance imaging. In case of suspected malignancy, total body computed tomography should be performed to avoid unnecessary cardiac operations in case of disseminated cancer. To date the only good medium and long-term results in the therapeutic management of heart sarcomas have been achieved by transplantation: the probable explanation is that criteria of surgical radicality should be those followed for soft tissue tumors located elsewhere in the organism.

[Myocardial revascularization in patients with impaired left ventricular function]

From March 1988 to May 1993, 1,125 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) underwent coronary surgery at our Institute. In the same period 74 patients (mean age 59 +/- 7 years; range 36-73) with left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) were referred for surgical decision making. All patients underwent [99mTc]MIBI/SPET to assess perfusion at rest and [99mTc]MIBI first pass radionuclide angiography to assess the ejection fraction (EF). In 44/74 patients we performed [18F]FDG/PET in fasting conditions and pharmacologic wash-out, in order to identify viable myocardium. We divided patients with LVD into 3 groups: Group A (30 patients) operated on without preoperative [18F]FDG/PET, Group B (37 patients) operated on with FDG uptake in segments with wall motion abnormalities, and Group C (7 patients) with no FDG uptake, who were excluded from coronary surgery; there was no significant difference among the 3 groups with respect to age, sex, CAD, risk factors and EF (Group A: 29.1% +/- 6.6%, range 16-39%; Group B: 30.8 +/- 5.6%, range 20-40%; Group C: 26.5 +/- 6.8%, range 18-37%). The study of perfusion and EF was repeated 6 months postoperatively in Group A and B. Left ventricular end-dyastolic pressure at cardiac catheterization was 19.9 +/- 5.1 mmHg, 20.4 +/- 4.7 mmHg and 26.8 +/- 9.2 mmHg in Group A, B and C, respectively. Myocardial protection was achieved according to the Buckberg protocol.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Successful treatment of coronary artery spasm following coronary artery bypass grafting

A case of coronary artery spasm developed 6 hours after myocardial revascularization inducing both hemodynamic and electrocardiographic changes, is reported. The spasm was documented by coronary angiography, and it was not reversed by intracoronary infusion of isosorbide dinitrate. Intravenous infusion of nifedipine (initial dose of 0.0104 mg/min to final dose of 0.0208 mg/min), along with infusion of glyceronitrate (1.0 micrograms/kg/min) was able to significantly improve hemodynamic impairment and to reverse electrocardiographic changes in 12 hours. Coronary angiography, repeated in postoperative day 3, after 48 hours of continuous nifedipine infusion, showed a resolution of coronary spasm. There was no evidence of myocardial infarction as resulted from total CPK and MB isoenzyme release. Nifedipine infusion was gradually reduced as oral administration of slow release nifedipine (40 mg twice daily) was started. The combined intravenous infusion of glyceronitrate and nifedipine seems to be able to control and overcome coronary artery spasm following coronary surgery.