Alpha gal syndrome, a relative not absolute contraindication to the use of bovine pericardium to close an intracardiac septal defect: a case report

BACKGROUND

Alpha-gal syndrome is an allergic condition in which individuals develop an immune-mediated hypersensitivity response when consuming red meat and its derived products. Its diagnosis is important in individuals undergoing cardiac surgery, as patients frequently require large doses of unfractionated heparin or the insertion of surgical implants, both of which are porcine or bovine in origin. There are currently no guidelines for heparin administration in alpha-gal patients, with even less knowledge regarding the long-term clinical implications of these patients after receiving bioprosthetic valve replacements or other prostheses.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the case of a 31-year-old male who underwent cardiac surgery in the setting of alpha-gal syndrome for a large atrial septal defect (ASD) and mitral valve prolapse (MVP). The patient continues to do well one year after undergoing a mitral valve repair, tricuspid valve repair and an ASD closure using bovine pericardium. He sustained no adverse reaction to the use of heparin products or the presence of a bovine pericardial patch. This rare case was managed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of cardiothoracic surgery, cardiac anesthesiology, and allergy/immunology that led to an optimal outcome despite the patient's pertinent allergic history.

CONCLUSIONS

This case highlights that the use of bovine pericardium and porcine heparin to close septal defects in patients with milder forms of alpha-gal allergy can be considered if other options are not available. Further studies are warranted to investigate the long-term outcomes of such potential alpha-gal containing prostheses and heparin exposure and establish the optimal decision making algorithm and prophylactic regimen.

Truncal valve repair in an adolescent with severe annular dilatation

Approximately 20% of patients with truncus arteriosus might need a truncal valve procedure within 20 years after anatomical repair due to regurgitation. These patients commonly develop valve regurgitation due to root dilatation with a sufficient amount of good quality valvular tissue. Thus, the reduction of the truncal annulus is the single most important factor to achieve durable repair, especially in patients in whom the Ross procedure is not an option.

Aortic valve repair in neonates, infants and children: a systematic review, meta-analysis and microsimulation study

OBJECTIVES

To support clinical decision-making in children with aortic valve disease, by compiling the available evidence on outcome after paediatric aortic valve repair (AVr).

METHODS

A systematic review of literature reporting clinical outcome after paediatric AVr (mean age at surgery <18 years) published between 1 January 1990 and 23 December 2021 was conducted. Early event risks, late event rates and time-to-event data were pooled. A microsimulation model was employed to simulate the lives of individual children, infants and neonates following AVr.

RESULTS

Forty-one publications were included, encompassing 2 623 patients with 17 217 patient-years of follow-up (median follow-up: 7.3 years; range: 1.0-14.4 years). Pooled mean age during repair for aortic stenosis in children (<18 years), infants (<1 year) or neonates (<30 days) was 5.2 ± 3.9 years, 35 ± 137 days and 11 ± 6 days, respectively. Pooled early mortality after stenosis repair in children, infants and neonates, respectively, was 3.5% (95% confidence interval: 1.9-6.5%), 7.4% (4.2-13.0%) and 10.7% (6.8-16.9%). Pooled late reintervention rate after stenosis repair in children, infants and neonates, respectively, was 3.31%/year (1.66-6.63%/year), 6.84%/year (3.95-11.83%/year) and 6.32%/year (3.04-13.15%/year); endocarditis 0.07%/year (0.03-0.21%/year), 0.23%/year (0.07-0.71%/year) and 0.49%/year (0.18-1.29%/year); and valve thrombosis 0.05%/year (0.01-0.26%/year), 0.15%/year (0.04-0.53%/year) and 0.19%/year (0.05-0.77%/year). Microsimulation-based mean life expectancy in the first 20 years for children, infants and neonates with aortic stenosis, respectively, was 18.4 years (95% credible interval: 18.1-18.7 years; relative survival compared to the matched general population: 92.2%), 16.8 years (16.5-17.0 years; relative survival: 84.2%) and 15.9 years (14.8-17.0 years; relative survival: 80.1%). Microsimulation-based 20-year risk of reintervention in children, infants and neonates, respectively, was 75.2% (72.9-77.2%), 53.8% (51.9-55.7%) and 50.8% (47.0-57.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term outcomes after paediatric AVr for stenosis are satisfactory and dependent on age at surgery. Despite a high hazard of reintervention for valve dysfunction and slightly impaired survival relative to the general population, AVr is associated with low valve-related event occurrences and should be considered in children with aortic valve disease.

Valvular complex and tissue remodelling in ovine functional tricuspid regurgitation

OBJECTIVES

Pathophysiology of function tricuspid regurgitation (FTR) is incompletely understood. We set out to comprehensively evaluate geometric and tissue remodelling of the tricuspid valve complex in ovine FTR.

METHODS

Twenty adult sheep underwent left thoracotomy and pulmonary artery banding (PAB) to induce right heart pressure overload and FTR. After 8 weeks, 17 surviving animals and 10 healthy controls (CTL) underwent sternotomy, echocardiography and implantation of sonomicrometry crystals on right ventricle and tricuspid valvular apparatus. Haemodynamic and sonomicrometry data were acquired in all animals after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Leaflet tissue was harvested for pentachrome histologic analysis and biomechanical testing.

RESULTS

Animal weight was 62 ± 5 and 63 ± 3 kg for CTL and PAB, respectively (P = 0.6). At terminal procedure, systolic pulmonary artery pressure was 22 ± 3 and 40 ± 7 mmHg for CTL and PAB, respectively (P = 0.0001). The mean TR grade (+0-4) was 0.8 ± 0.4 and 3.2 ± 1.2 (P = 0.0001) for control and banded animals, respectively. Right ventricle volume (126 ± 13 vs 172 ± 34 ml, P = 0.0019), tricuspid annular area (651 ± 109 vs 865 ± 247 mm2, P = 0.037) and area between papillary muscle tips (162 ± 51 vs 302 ± 75 mm2, P = 0.001) increased substantially while systolic excursion of anterior leaflet decreased significantly (23.8 ± 6.1° vs 7.4 ± 4.5°, P = 0.001) with banding. Total leaflet surface area increased from 806 ± 94 to 953 ± 148 mm2 (P = 0.009), and leaflets became thicker and stiffer.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed analysis of the tricuspid valve complex revealed significant ventricular, annular, subvalvular and leaflet remodelling to be associated with ovine functional tricuspid regurgitation. Durable surgical repair of severe FTR may require a multi-level approach to the valvular apparatus.

Aortic valve repair in the pediatric population: emerging role of aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo procedure)

Management of aortic valve diseases in children is challenging owing to the quality and quantity of the native tissue for repair, limitations in the currently available biological materials to supplement the repair and to achieve a long-lasting durable repair in an annulus where there is still growth potential. The aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo) procedure has emerged as a versatile alternative strategy in the armamentarium of pediatric aortic valve reconstructions that are currently available. In this review article, the focus of the discussion will be on the various aortic valve repair procedures in the pediatric population, with a special emphasis on the emerging role of AVNeo procedure in pediatrics and its outcomes.

Physical Simulation of Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair using Image-Derived 3D Printed Heart Models

Background

Transcatheter edge-to-edge valve repair (TEER) is a complex procedure requiring delivery and alignment of the device to the target valve, which can be challenging in atypical or surgically palliated anatomy. We demonstrate application of virtual and physical simulation to plan optimal TEER access and catheter path in normal and congenitally abnormal cardiac anatomy.

Methods

Three heart models were created from three-dimensional (3D) images and 3D printed, including two with congenital heart disease. TEER catheter course was simulated both virtually and physically using a commercial TEER system.

Results

We demonstrate application of modeling in three patients, including two with congenital heart disease and a Fontan circulation. Access site and pathway to device delivery was simulated by members of a multidisciplinary valve team. Virtual and physical simulation were compared.

Conclusions

Virtual and physical simulation of TEER using 3D printed heart models is feasible and may be beneficial for planning and simulation, particularly in patients with complex anatomy. Future work is required to demonstrate application in the clinical setting.

Management of Right Atrial Thrombus During MitraClip Implantation: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) is a relatively novel approach for treatment of symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation. Intra procedural thrombus formation is a rare but potential complication. Herein, we describe a case of large right atrial thrombus formation after transseptal puncture, that was successfully managed using aspiration thrombectomy.

Long-term Outcomes of the Ross Procedure for Young Patients with Aortic Valve Disease

To define current role of the Ross operation in young patients, the outcome in those followed longer than 20 years were assessed. Between 1994 and 2020, 81 consecutive patients, 70 of 11 male and/or female, mean age 27 years underwent Ross procedure, accruing 20 years of follow-up or longer. Sixty-four had bicuspid valve (79%) and 54 (67%) aortic insufficiency, while 15 (19%) had undergone prior operations. Surgery consisted in root replacement in 53 patients, cylinder inclusion in 20 and sub-coronary graft in 8. There were 7 late deaths in 80 hospital survivors (median follow-up 21 years, IQR 20-23), with 88% ± 5% survival at 25 years. Thirty-four patients required left, 6 left and/or right and 1 right heart valve reoperation, on average 13 years after Ross procedure. Reoperation was valve-sparing in 18 (45%) patients and valve and/or root replacement in 22. Ten (24%) reoperated patients required a second reoperation 18 years after Ross procedure. Freedom from autograft reoperation was 46% ± 6%, while from autograft valve replacement was 60% ± 7%, thanks to autograft valve-sparing. Freedom from isolated right valve reoperation was 98% ± 4%. No mortality was associated with any of the 51 reoperations. Root technique was associated with reoperation (P = 0.024). Age at follow-up was 50 years (IQR 36-60), with 70 (96%) patients in NYHA class I and 6 (55%) women carrying out pregnancies. Young patients undergoing the Ross procedure enjoy unprecedented survival well into the third decade of follow-up, even when faced with reoperation. At 25 years risk of autograft reoperation is consistent, while negligible for homograft. Technical improvements at operation and valve-sparing at reoperation may prolong autograft valve durability.

Tricuspid valve replacement: The old and the new

Tricuspid regurgitation is a frequent and serious condition but tricuspid valve (TV) surgery, that may be a valve replacement when a repair is not feasible, is rarely performed. Recent development of transcatheter TV interventions offers new options for those high-surgical risk patients, especially TV replacement for patients who are not eligible for transcatheter TV repair. In this review, we describe indications and outcome after surgical TV replacement, and devices available or in development for transcatheter TV replacement.

Idiopathic posterior papillary muscle rupture; a case report

BACKGROUND

Papillary muscle rupture is a rare condition. Its clinical presentation, diagnosis and management can be very challenging for the clinician.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 73-year-old woman with hypertension presented with chest pain, ST-segment changes, and elevated serum troponin levels. Coronary angiography was normal. Echocardiography revealed normal ventricular function, flail posterior mitral leaflet, and severe mitral regurgitation. She underwent emergent mitral valve replacement.

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic and management strategies of this uncommon presentation are discussed.

Unilateral percutaneous cannulation and endoaortic balloon management in robotic-assisted cardiac surgery: The least invasive approach

Totally endoscopic, robotic-assisted cardiac surgery has been increasingly utilized for valvular surgery. Peripheral cannulation with endoaortic balloon occlusion offers a safe approach for initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass during such procedures. We present a step-by-step demonstration of unilateral percutaneous femoral cannulation, endoaortic balloon positioning, and decannulation in a patient undergoing totally endoscopic, robotic-assisted mitral valve repair.

Insights from 3D Echocardiography in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Patients Undergoing TV Repair

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is associated with morbidity and mortality. TR mechanisms and the impact of tricuspid valve repair (TVR) are unclear. We examined HLHS TR mechanisms, TVR's impact on tricuspid valve (TV), and features of poor TVR durability.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared 35 HLHS TVR cases and 35 age/stage-matched HLHS controls who do not undergo TVR. Pre-operative 3-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) assessed overall TV morphology (prolapse, normal, tethered), leaflet morphology, vena contracta area, and TR location. Two-dimensional echocardiography measured TV annulus diameter, RV fractional area change (RVFAC), sphericity, and TR grade at three time points (pre-op, early post-op, and latest follow-up).

RESULTS

Pre-op, TVR group, and controls had no difference in age, RV function or shape, or TV dimension. TVR group most commonly had anterior leaflet prolapse followed by septal leaflet prolapse or tethering. TR jet arises centrally (63%) and anterior septally (26%). Posterior annuloplasty (69%), commissuroplasty (37%), and leaflet repair (37%) were surgical techniques commonly performed. At early post-op, TR grade and TV annulus decreased. At latest follow-up, TV annulus remained reduced; however, 50% had significant TR. 25% required TV reoperation. Larger vena contracta at TVR was associated with significant TR.

CONCLUSION

HLHS patients undergoing TVR had more anterior leaflet prolapse and central TR. While TVR initially reduces annular size and TR grade, 50% redevelop significant TR despite maintained annular reduction. The association of greater TR severity prior to repair with post-op recurrence raises the consideration for earlier repair of TR in HLHS patients.

MitraClip repair of right-sided atrioventricular valve in a patient with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries: a case report

Background

Patients with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) often develop tricuspid valve (systemic atrioventricular valve) dysfunction due to right ventricular overload and dilatation, but isolated mitral valve (MV) disease is rarely found. Isolated mitral (subpulmonic atrioventricular valve) interventions, specifically catheter-directed, have not been reported up to date.

Case summary

A man with ccTGA is evaluated for dyspnoea. Multimodality imaging assessment confirmed severe right-sided MV regurgitation due to prolapse. In light of high surgical risk, a minimally invasive transcatheter MitraClip procedure was pursued.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first case of successful MV repair via percutaneous approach using MitraClip in a patient with ccTGA and biventricular failure. Our case illustrates the safety and feasibility of the edge-to-edge procedure in such a rare instance, but also the importance of multimodality imaging (both invasive and non-invasive) and the Heart Team approach when caring for these complex patients.

Paediatric mitral valve disease - from presentation to management

Mitral valve diseases are relatively rare in the paediatric population; however, they can cause considerable mortality and morbidity worldwide. Acquired causes are a major contributor to cardiovascular disease burden in the paediatric population. Diseases can be detected before birth, at birth, or when the child is older and presents with symptoms of advanced heart failure. Definitive management consists of surgical intervention, with mitral valve replacement being the gold standard.Conclusion: Repair has been gaining popularity; however, its outcomes require further study. Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty is an emerging technique which holds promise as a bridge to surgical treatment. The effect of these interventions on quality of life must be emphasised and requires further study. What is Known: • The epidemiology of mitral valve disease in the paediatric population - predominant causes include rheumatic disease and congenital defects.  • Mitral valve repair and replacement are the standard treatment methods for paediatric mitral valve disease.  What is New: • Emergence of percutaneous mitral valve interventions and their potential as bridge-to-surgery or definitive treatment in high-risk surgical candidates.  • Recent evidence comparing mitral valve repair and replacement in the paediatric population demonstrates increasing popularity of repair techniques.

Isolated Tricuspid Valve Surgery: the Auckland Experience 2011-2019

INTRODUCTION

Isolated tricuspid valve surgery is an uncommon operation. Historical reports, including a previous review from our unit, demonstrated high morbidity and mortality associated with this operation. Many of these patients had severely impaired right ventricular function at the time of the surgery. Since our previous review, we have actively encouraged our local cardiologists to refer patients with severe isolated tricuspid disease for surgery before right ventricular remodelling occurs. This present study was performed to assess our current results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospectively-maintained hospital database was used to identify all adult non-congenital patients receiving standalone tricuspid valve repair or replacement at New Zealand's largest cardiothoracic surgical unit from July 2011 to July 2019. Additional demographic and clinical data were collected by review of patient electronic records.

RESULTS

During the 8-year study period, a total of 50 patients underwent isolated tricuspid valve surgery. Most patients were operated on for functional (40%) or rheumatic (30%) tricuspid disease. The majority of patients underwent surgery when the right ventricular function preoperatively was normal (30%) or mildly/moderately impaired (60%). Over half the patient sample (56%) underwent valve replacement. The 30-day mortality rate and stroke rate were 6% and 2% respectively. The medium-term survival was 80% at 4 years mean follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Isolated tricuspid surgery is no longer a high mortality operation when it is performed on patients who have preserved right ventricular function.

Long-Term Outcomes of Atrioventricular Valve Surgery in Patients with Functional Single Ventricle: Should We Avoid Valve Replacement?

Atrioventricular valve regurgitation (AVVR) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with single ventricle physiology. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of the surgical management of AVVR and to analyze the effects of AV valve replacement. The medical records of 38 single ventricle patients who underwent atrioventricular valve surgery more than once between January 2001 and March 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. We analyzed and compared clinical data of patients who underwent valve replacement as an initial treatment (n = 8) for AVVR with patients who initially underwent valve repair (n = 30). The median follow-up duration was 98.1 months (range, 0.9-209.6 months). There was one early mortality and seven late mortalities. Freedom from reoperation between the two groups at 15 years of follow-up was significantly different: 18.3% in the repair group and 100% in the replacement group (p = 0.013). The replacement group showed a better overall survival rate (100%) at 15 years than the repair group (68.5%) without statistical significance (p = 0.097). All mortalities occurred in the repair group. Nine patients in the repair group (30%) and one patient in the replacement group (12.5%) showed preoperative ventricular dysfunction. RV-type single ventricle with atrioventricular (AV) valve annular dilatation was found out as a risk factor of AVV replacement both in univariate (p = 0.04) and multivariate (p = 0.004) analysis. AV valve replacement might be considered as a primary treatment option for patients who have an annular dilation with an RV-type single ventricle rather than repeated valvuloplasty.

Infective endocarditis in paediatric population

Infective endocarditis is very uncommon in children; however, when it does arise, it can lead to severe consequences. The biggest risk factor for paediatric infective endocarditis today is underlying congenital heart defects. The most common causative organisms are Staphylococcus aureus and the viridans group of streptococci. The spectrum of symptoms varies widely in children and this produces difficulty in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis. Infective endocarditis in children is reliant on the modified Duke criteria. The use of blood cultures remains the most effective microbiological test for pathogen identification. However, in blood culture-negative infective endocarditis, serology testing and IgG titres are more effective for diagnosis. Imaging techniques used include echocardiograms, computed tomography and positron emission tomography. Biomarkers utilised in diagnosis are C-reactive protein, with recent literature reviewing the use of interleukin-15 and C-C motif chemokine ligand for reliable risk prediction. The American Heart Association (AHA) and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines have been compared to describe the differences in the approach to infective endocarditis in children. Medical intervention involves the use of antimicrobial treatment and surgical interventions include the repair and replacement of cardiac valves. Quality of life is highly likely to improve from surgical intervention.Conclusion: Over the past decades, there have been great advancements in clinical practice to improve outcomes in patients with infective endocarditis. Nonetheless, further work is required to better investigative and manage such high risk cohort. What is Known: • The current diagnostic techniques including 'Duke's criteria' for paediatric infective endocarditis diagnosis • The current management guidelines utilised for paediatric infective endocarditis What is New: • The long-term outcomes of patients that underwent medical and surgical intervention • The quality of life of paediatric patients that underwent medical and surgical intervention.

Long-term durability of bicuspid aortic valve repair: a comparison of 2 annuloplasty techniques

OBJECTIVES

To compare long-term outcomes after bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) repair utilizing the Cabrol annuloplasty versus valve sparing Reimplantation technique.

METHODS

From 1996 to 2018, 340 consecutive patients underwent BAV repair. Eighty underwent Cabrol annuloplasty and 189 underwent Reimplantation. Exclusion criteria were re-repairs (n = 6), active endocarditis (n = 4), no annuloplasty (n = 41) and ring or suture annuloplasty (n = 20). We compared both groups for survival, reoperations, valve related events and recurrent severe aortic regurgitation (AR > 2+). Inverse probability weighting (IPW) was used to balance the 2 groups. Cox regression analysis was used to identify outcome predictors.

RESULTS

After weighting, pre- and intraoperative characteristics were similar between groups, except for aorta replacement techniques and operative time, which was longer in the Reimplantation group (P < 0.001). At 12 years, overall survival was similar between groups (IPW: Cabrol 97 ± 2% vs Reimplantation 94 ± 3%, P = 0.52). Freedom from reoperation and freedom from AR > 2+ were significantly lower in the Cabrol group (reoperation IPW: 69 ± 9% vs 91 ± 4%, P = 0.004 and AR > 2+ IPW: 71 ± 8% vs 97 ± 2%, P < 0.001). The Reimplantation technique was the only independent predictor of reoperation (hazard ratio 0.31; confidence interval 0.19-0.7; P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, comparing 2 annuloplasty strategies for BAV repair, we found statistically significant differences in long-term durability favouring the Reimplantation technique, and no differences in overall survival. The results support our current strategy of Reimplantation technique and repair of AR in patients with BAV. Cabrol annuloplasty is obsolete and should be generally abandoned in patients undergoing BAV repair for AR.

Isolated aortic insufficiency valve repair with external ring annuloplasty: a standardized approach

OBJECTIVES

Aortic valve (AV) insufficiency with normal root and ascending aorta is most frequently treated by valve replacement with significant prosthetic-related complications and reduced life expectancy. We compared the outcomes of a new standardized isolated AV repair approach using an external aortic annuloplasty ring at the subvalvular level (single ring annuloplasty) and the role of an additional supravalvular ring at the sinotubular junction (double ring annuloplasty).

METHODS

Single centre data were collected from the Aortic Valve Insufficiency and ascending aorta Aneurysm InternATiOnal Registry (AVIATOR) between 2003 and 2017. A total of 93 patients (56 single ring and 37 double ring) underwent isolated AV repair.

RESULTS

The overall 30-day mortality rate and the need for a permanent pacemaker were 1% and 2%, respectively. The overall survival rate at 6 years was similar for sex- and age-matched members of the general population (89% vs 95%; P = 0.1) and did not differ between the double and single ring groups (82% vs 93%; P = 0.4) at 6 years. There were no thromboembolic or bleeding events in the entire cohort. However, at 6 years, the cumulative incidence of valve-related reintervention was 26% in the single ring annuloplasty group compared to 3% in the double ring annuloplasty (P = 0.02) group. Similarly, at 6 years, the cumulative incidence of moderate-to-severe (>2) aortic insufficiency was 30% in the single ring annuloplasty group compared to 0% in the double ring annuloplasty group (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Standardized AV repair with external ring annuloplasty has a survival rate similar to that of the general population. The additional stabilization of the sinotubular junction with a second supravalvular ring (double ring annuloplasty) is associated with better outcomes compared to single subvalvular annuloplasty. It can be considered as a first line intervention for patients with isolated aortic insufficiency and pliable leaflets.

Transcatheter mitral valve repair in proportionate and disproportionate functional mitral regurgitation-insights from a small cohort study

Background

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) can be subclassified based on its proportionality relative to left ventricular function and end-diastolic volume. FMR proportionality could help identify responders to transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (MitraClip) in terms of residual FMR and/or clinical improvement.

Methods

This single-centre retrospective cohort study evaluated the feasibility of determining FMR proportionality in symptomatic heart failure patients with reduced left ventricular function who were treated with MitraClip for ≥ moderate-to-severe FMR. Baseline proportionate (pFMR) and disproportionate FMR (dFMR) were distinguished. Patient characteristics and MitraClip procedural outcomes were described.

Results

From an overall cohort of 81 eligible FMR patients, 23/81 (28%) had to be excluded due to missing transthoracic echocardiogram parameters, 22/81 were excluded based on FMR severity. The remaining cohort, of 36/81 patients (44%), could be classified into dFMR (n = 26) or pFMR (n = 10). Conduction disorders were numerically increased in dFMR. All cases requiring > 2 clips were in the dFMR group and absence of FMR reduction occurred more frequently with dFMR.

Point of view/Conclusion

Important limitations in terms of imaging acquisition affect the translation of the FMR proportionality concept to a real-world data set. We did observe different demographic and FMR response patterns in patients with proportionate and disproportionate FMR that warrant further investigation.

Supplementary Information

The online version of this article (10.1007/s12471-021-01583-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Starting an aortic valve repair program: is it worthwhile? Aortic valve repair compared to replacement

OBJECTIVES

Increasing evidence suggests that aortic valve (AV) repair may have better long-term outcomes than AV replacement for aortic insufficiency. However, most literature is limited to centres of excellence and has not sufficiently been replicated in nascent programs. This single-centre experience of a newly established AV repair program aims to compare short-term outcomes of AV sparing versus replacement surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent elective surgery for aortic regurgitation or aortic root dilatation at the Leuven University Hospital between 2013 and 2018 was performed. Patients with a critically ill presentation, endocarditis, aortic stenosis or requiring redo surgery were excluded. Patients were assigned to repair versus replacement based on preoperative intention to preserve the AV. Nearest neighbour propensity score matching was performed to compare both groups. Safety (mortality, morbidity), efficiency (cross-clamp and bypass times) and efficacy end points (repair rate, postoperative echocardiography) were compared.

RESULTS

One hundred and seven patients underwent AV surgery (48 repair, 59 replacement), from which 2 groups of 23 matched patients were created. There were 1 death and 2 reoperations after repair and no death and 1 reoperation after replacement. Extracorporeal circulation and aortic cross-clamp time were significantly longer while ventilation and total hospital stay were significantly shorter after AV repair. Echocardiographic follow-up showed comparable aortic regurgitation but lower transvalvular gradients after repair. Freedom from major complications was comparable in both cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Early results suggest the feasibility of replicating experienced centres' perioperative and short-term outcomes in nascent programs.

Common atrioventricular valve surgery in children with functional single ventricle

OBJECTIVES

A common atrioventricular valve (CAVV) is considered to be a risk factor for early and late deaths in patients with functional single ventricle (FSV). CAVV surgery in patients with FSV is challenging and there is limited knowledge of the outcomes of CAVV repair with univentricular physiology.

METHODS

We reviewed all CAVV surgical procedures in patients with FSV who underwent univentricular palliation. End points of the study were survival after CAVV surgery and cumulative incidence of reoperation.

RESULTS

Between 1984 and 2019, 66 children with CAVV and FSV underwent single-ventricle palliation, of whom 45.5% (30/66) required CAVV surgery. Indication for surgery was moderate CAVV regurgitation in 40% (12/30) and severe CAVV regurgitation in 60% (18/30). CAVV repair was performed in 93.3% (28/30) and CAVV replacement in 6.7% (2/30). The median age and weight at surgery were 0.9 years (interquartile range 0.3-1.8) and 6.5 kg (interquartile range 3.9-8.7), respectively. Operative and late mortality were 23.3% and 8.7%, respectively. Survival and cumulative incidence of reoperation at 4 years after CAVV surgery were 68.9% [standard deviation (SD): 8.7] and 35.8% (SD: 9.1), respectively. Fontan completion was achieved in 60% (18/30). Survival at 4 years after birth was 69.7% (SD: 8.5) in 30 patients with CAVV surgery, whereas it was 83% (SD: 6.3) in 36 patients without CAVV surgery (P = 0.32).

CONCLUSIONS

CAVV surgery in patients with FSV is associated with substantial mortality and a high incidence of reoperation.

Surgical considerations for atrial functional regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves based on the etiological mechanism

Atrial functional mitral regurgitation is a hot research topic in the field of mitral valve disease. Atrial functional mitral regurgitation is distinctly different from ventricular functional mitral regurgitation. The surgical indications for atrial functional mitral regurgitation have not been well established because of the small amount of evidence gathered to date. Mitral annular plication with an artificial ring is an essential surgical procedure because dilatation of the mitral valve annulus is a main factor underlying this pathology. Most of these cases can be treated by mitral annuloplasty alone. However, additional procedures, such as application of artificial chordae to the anterior leaflet for pseudo-prolapse, and posterior leaflet augmentation with a pericardial patch, are required in advanced cases with a giant left atrium and extremely enlarged mitral annulus. Chronic atrial fibrillation causes enlargement of the right and left atria. This pathology is a bilateral atrioventricular valve disease (dual-valve disease). Therefore, the conventional guidelines of single-valve disease should not be applied. Although atrial functional tricuspid regurgitation is underappreciated, tricuspid annuloplasty should be considered for most patients to prevent future regurgitation. In addition to the mitral and tricuspid valve procedure, integrated surgical management, including plication of the atrium and left appendage closure, is required. This review summarizes the current considerations of surgical treatment for atrial functional regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves based on the etiological mechanism.

Coronary spasm: unpredictability and safety in treatment key role of hybrid setting

The present case highlights the crucial role of hybrid setting for diagnosis and treatment of refractory coronary spasms.

Three-month outcomes of aortic valve reconstruction using collagenous membranes (biosheets) produced by in-body tissue architecture in a goat model: a preliminary study

BACKGROUND

Autologous pericardium is widely used as a plastic material in intracardiac structures, in the pulmonary artery, and in aortic valve leaflets. For aortic valve reconstruction (AVRec) using the Ozaki procedure, it has produced excellent clinical results over a 10-year period. In-body tissue architecture (iBTA), which is based on the phenomenon of tissue encapsulation of foreign materials, can be used to prepare autologous prosthetic tissues. In this preliminary study, we examined whether biosheets can be used as valve leaflet material for glutaraldehyde-free AVRec by subchronic implantation experiments in goats and evaluated its performance compared with glutaraldehyde-treated autologous pericardium for AVRec.

METHODS

Biosheets were prepared by embedding molds for two months into the dorsal subcutaneous spaces of goats. Autogenic biosheets (n = 4) cut into the shape of the valve were then implanted to the aortic valve annulus of four goats for three months without glutaraldehyde treatment. Autologous pericardium (n = 4) was used in four goats as a control. Valve function was observed using echocardiography.

RESULTS

All goats survived the three-month study period. With biosheets, the leaflet surfaces were very smooth and, on histology, partially covered with a thin neointima (including endothelial cells). Biosheets were more thoroughly assimilated into the aortic root compared with autologous pericardium.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, biosheets were used for large animal AVRec. Biosheets could function as leaflets in the aortic position and may have the ability to assimilate into native valves.

Infective endocarditis and neurologic events: indications and timing for surgical interventions

A therapeutic dilemma arises when infective endocarditis (IE) is complicated by a neurologic event. Postponement of surgery up to 4 weeks is recommended by the guidelines, however, this negatively impacts outcomes in many patients with an urgent indication for surgery due to uncontrolled infection, disease progression, or haemodynamic deterioration. The current literature is ambiguous regarding the safety of cardiopulmonary bypass in patients with recent neurologic injury. Nevertheless, most publications demonstrate a lower risk for secondary haemorrhagic conversion of uncomplicated ischaemic lesions than the risk for recurrent embolism under antibiotic treatment. Here, we discuss the current literature regarding neurologic stroke complicating IE with an indication for surgery.

Predictors of cardiovascular outcomes after surgery in severe tricuspid regurgitation: clinical, imaging and hemodynamic prospective study

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a prevalent valve disease with a high mortality rate. Current guidelines do not define specific thresholds at which patients should be considered for surgery or percutaneous procedures. Thus, patients are usually referred for intervention at a late stage of the disease. This study aimed to assess predictors of cardiovascular outcomes in a prospective cohort of patients with severe TR referred for surgery.

METHODS

This was an observational, prospective, nonrandomized study. All patients underwent surgery for severe TR based on current clinical guidelines. Complete anamnesis, blood test, echocardiogram, cardiovascular magnetic resonance and right and left catheterization were performed. Patients were followed up in the outpatient department and a combined endpoint (hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular mortality) was registered.

RESULTS

Forty-three consecutive patients were included (age: 66.9 ± 9.6 years, 67.4% female). Tricuspid annuloplasty was performed in all patients. After a median follow-up of 38 months, 12 patients (27.9%) showed the combined endpoint and 7 (16.3%) died. Above all clinical, blood and imaging data, the indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume constituted the best predictor of the combined endpoint (HR, 1.1; P = .02) and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.1; P = .05). Furthermore, indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume was associated with TR recurrence after surgery, with no impact on clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe TR referred for surgery, right ventricular remodeling assessed by cardiovascular magnetic resonance constituted the best independent predictor of cardiovascular outcomes at follow-up.

Aortic annulus and the importance of annuloplasty

Dystrophic aortic insufficiency accounts for the majority of Western cases of aortic insufficiency and can be divided into the three phenotypes of isolated aortic insufficiency, dilated aortic root, and dilated ascending aorta. Each of these phenotypes is associated with a dilated annulus and/or sinotubular junction. Recent international guidelines recommend reimplantation or remodeling with aortic annuloplasty for valve-sparing root replacement, as well as consideration of aortic valve repair in cases of aortic insufficiency. A dilated aortic annulus is a major risk factor for failure of aortic valve repair procedures, indicating the need to address the annulus at the time of aortic valve or root repair. Calibrated annuloplasty should be performed at sub- and supravalular levels in order to restore the ratio of the sinotubular junction and annulus and be adapted according to the phenotype of the root and ascending aorta. Standardization of aortic valve repair techniques with use of a calibrated annuloplasty will improve dissemination of techniques and rate of aortic valve repair. Current medical evidence shows that aortic valve repair is safe, produces better quality of life, and reduces valve-related mortality compared to prosthetic valve replacement.

Mid-term hemodynamic and functional results after transcatheter mitral valve leaflet repair with the new PASCAL device

AIMS

To examine the functional and hemodynamic mid-term outcome at 5 months of mitral regurgitation (MR) reduction using the PASCAL repair system.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between July 2019 and February 2020 31 consecutive patients with MR 3 +/4 + (mean age 77.5 years, all in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III-IV, STS score 9.1 ± 7.4) underwent MR reduction in our institute using the PASCAL device. 61.3% had a functional, 29.0% a degenerative, and 9.7% a mixed etiology. Successful implantation was achieved in 30/31 (96.8%) patients. 27/31 patients (87.1%) completed 5-month follow-up with clinical, echocardiographic, laboratory and hemodynamic assessment. At 5 months, 70.4% of the patients had MR grade ≤ 1 (p < 0.001). 85.2% were in NYHA class I or II (p < 0.001). Six-minute walk distance improved by 145 m (p = 0.010), Kansas City cardiomyopathy questionnaire and European quality of life 5 dimensions questionnaire (EQ5D) improved by 31 (p < 0.001) and 9 points (p = 0.001), respectively. Mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased significantly from 22.1 ± 9 mmHg to 17.3 ± 8 mmHg (p = 0.041) and right atrial pressure from 10.3 ± 6 mmHg to 8.0 ± 6 mmHg (p = 0.013) from baseline to 5 months. In addition, propensity score matching showed that PASCAL and MitraClip procedures resulted in equally hemodynamic and functional improvement.

CONCLUSION

MR reduction of severe MR with the PASCAL device is feasible and safe regardless of etiologies. Mid-term follow-up at 5 months showed a sustained MR reduction, improvement of exercise capacity, quality of life, proBNP levels and hemodynamics regarding pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and right atrial pressure.

Outcomes of surgical treatment for active infective endocarditis of mitral valve compared using complexity scoring

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate our surgical treatment outcomes of active infective endocarditis (IE) of mitral valve in relation to the patients' complexity scores.

METHODS

We reviewed 51 patients who underwent surgical treatment for active IE on the mitral valve, in our hospital between September 2002 and November 2016. We adapted a complexity scoring scale to describe the range of parts suffering vegetation and damage, assigning the following weighting: weight 1 for each posterior segment; weight 2 for each anterior segment, commissural segment, left atrium, or left ventricle; weight 3 if the annulus was involved or if pathology extended to a prior mitral operation site. A total of 51 patients were identified and categorized by complexity score into two groups: 1-2: Simple (n = 19); ≥ 3: Complex (n = 32).

RESULTS

MV repair was achieved in 18 patients (95%) in the Simple group and 26 patients (81%) in the Complex group. In the Complex there were 2 in-hospital deaths (6%). There were none in the Simple. The 5-year survival rates were 100% in the Simple and 79.6% in the Complex (P < 0.05). The 5-year rates of freedom from mitral regurgitation were 77.8% in the Simple and 91.5% in the Complex (P = 0.63). The 5-year rates of freedom from recurrence of IE were 93.3% in the Simple and 92.2% in the Complex (P = 0.76).

CONCLUSIONS

We found consistent outcomes in terms of recurrent mitral regurgitation and recurrence of IE, regardless of lesion complexity.

Tricuspid Valve Leaflet Repair and Augmentation for Infective Endocarditis

Intravenous drug use has increased substantially over the past decade, with heroin abuse more than doubling. Injection drug use-related infective endocarditis hospitalizations have similarly increased over the same period. Right-sided infective endocarditis is strongly associated with intravenous drug use, and 90% of right-sided endocarditis involves the tricuspid valve. During the period of the opioid epidemic, tricuspid-related endocarditis rates have increased, while the incidence of surgery for tricuspid endocarditis has increased as much as five-fold. Within this context, optimizing surgical technique for valve repair is increasingly important. In this report, we examine the indications for tricuspid valve surgery for endocarditis, describe specific techniques for tricuspid valve leaflet repair and augmentation, and assess postoperative care and surgical outcomes after both tricuspid valve repair and replacement for infective endocarditis.

Results for tricuspid valve surgery in adults with congenital heart disease other than Ebstein's anomaly†

OBJECTIVES

Tricuspid valve (TV) surgery in the adult with congenital heart disease (ACHD) is a frequently performed procedure. The aim of this study was to analyse postoperative and medium-term outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a single-centre retrospective study of patients with ACHD who underwent TV surgery (January 2000-December 2016); patients with Ebstein's anomalies were excluded. Operative and clinical records were reviewed. Outcomes considered were survival, grade of insufficiency/stenosis and TV reoperation at follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients with ACHD had TV surgery for functional regurgitation (n = 95), dysplasia (n = 23) and systemic TV (n = 10). Median age was 40.8 years [interquartile range (IQR) 25.3]; 55.5% were men. Preoperative regurgitation was classified as mild (n = 8), moderate (n = 47) and severe (n = 70). The TV was repaired in 109 as follows: ring annuloplasty (n = 43), de Vega annuloplasty (n = 29), Wooler annuloplasty (n = 13), commissural plasty (n = 9), Kay annuloplasty (n = 7) and others (n = 8). The TV was replaced in 19 patients with biological (n = 10) and mechanical (n = 9) prostheses. The median hospital stay was 12 days (IQR 10). The overall mortality rate was 8.6% (n = 11): 2 hospital deaths (1.6%) and 9 late deaths. Survival was 93% [95% confidence interval (CI) 85-97%] at 5 years and 83% (95% CI 70-91%) at 10 years. The median follow-up period was 4.95 years (IQR 7.7) with 1 TV reoperation. Echocardiographic assessment showed ≥moderate regurgitation in 34 (34.3%) patients. Suture plasty had a significantly higher incidence of TV regurgitation ≥moderate compared to ring annuloplasty (48.9% vs 26.3%; P = 0.033).

CONCLUSIONS

TV surgery in the ACHD is frequently associated with other main procedures. Stabilizing the TV annulus with a prosthetic ring guarantees lower recurrence of moderate to severe regurgitation compared to suture plasty repair.

Moderate ischemic mitral incompetence: does it worth more ischemic time?

OBJECTIVES

Ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) is a common finding following myocardial infarction or ischemia. Management of moderate IMR is still a hot topic. Adding mitral valve repair (MVr) to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is questionable. The goal of this study was to assess and compare short-term clinical and echocardiographic results of moderate IMR treated by CABG alone versus another group of patients treated by CABG plus MVr.

METHODS

Eighty consecutive patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and moderate IMR were divided randomly into two equal groups: group I (40) had only CABG and group II (40) had CABG plus MVr. Patients were evaluated at 1-week, 3-months and 1-year intervals postoperatively.

RESULTS

After 1-year follow-up, our study revealed statistically significant improvement in the grade of mitral regurgitation (MR) in group II than group I. The mean value for effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) was 0.22 ± 0.13 for group I versus 0.03 ± 0.03 for group II (P = 0.001) and for vena contracta (VC), it was 3.8 ± 2.24 for group I versus 0.4 ± 0.49 for group II (P = 0.000). There was also a significant reduction in the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

MVr can be performed safely and concomitantly with CABG in patients having moderate IMR, and its addition to CABG have significant short-term impact on clinical or echocardiographic outcome of patients.

Surgical valvulotomy for tricuspid valve stenosis in a dog

A 2-year, 4-month-old neutered female Labrador retriever was brought for evaluation of right-sided congestive heart failure. Echocardiographic examination revealed tricuspid valve dysplasia with only two small orifices in the valve resulting in severe tricuspid stenosis. The dog underwent a right fifth lateral intercostal thoracotomy and surgical tricuspid valvulotomy, under cardiopulmonary bypass. The stenosis was relieved by dividing the valve leaflets between the two orifices with continuation to the commissures, creating a 'bileaflet' valve. The dog made a good recovery initially, with echocardiography at 48 h after surgery showing a reduction in tricuspid valve E and A wave velocities and pressure half-time (from 230 ms to 65 ms). She was discharged five days after surgery, and spironolactone, benazepril, pimobendan, and clopidogrel were prescribed. The dog was re-presented two days later having collapsed, with pyrexia, facial swelling, and pitting edema on the ventral neck and intermandibular region. Investigations did not reveal an underlying cause, and the clinical signs resolved with supportive therapy. Two years after surgery, the dog was free of clinical signs with normal exercise tolerance and only mild tricuspid regurgitation on echocardiography, with discontinuation of all medications.

Pericardial closure with extracellular matrix scaffold following cardiac surgery associated with a reduction of postoperative complications and 30-day hospital readmissions

BACKGROUND

A prospective, multi-center study (RECON) was conducted to evaluate the clinical outcomes of pericardial closure using a decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) graft derived from porcine small intestinal submucosa.

METHODS

Patients indicated for open cardiac surgery with pericardial closure using ECM were eligible for the RECON study cohort. Postoperative complications and readmission of the RECON patients were compared to the patient cohort in the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD). Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to control the differences in patient demographics, comorbidities, and risk factors.

RESULTS

A total of 1420 patients at 42 centers were enrolled, including 923 coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgeries and 436 valve surgeries. Significantly fewer valve surgery patients in the RECON cohort experienced pleural effusion (3.1% vs. 13.0%; p < 0.05) and pericardial effusion (1.5% vs. 2.6%; p < 0.05) than in the NRD cohort. CABG patients in the RECON cohort were less likely to suffer bleeding (1.2% vs. 2.9%; p < 0.05) and pericardial effusion (0.2% vs. 2.2%, p < 0.05) than those in the NRD cohort. The 30-day all-cause hospital readmission rate was significantly lower among RECON patients than NRD patients following both valve surgery (HR: 0.34; p < 0.05) and CABG surgery (HR: 0.42; p < 0.05). In the RECON study, 14.4% of CABG patients and 27.0% of valve patients had postoperative atrial fibrillation as compared to previously reported risks, which generally ranges from 20 to 30% after CABG and from 35 to 50% after valve surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Pericardial closure with ECM following cardiac surgery is associated with a reduction in the proportion of patients with pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, and 30-day readmission compared to a nationwide database.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02073331 , Registered on February 27, 2014.

Outcomes of Common Atrioventricular Valve Repair in Patients With Single-Ventricle Physiology - Indication, Timing and Repair Techniques

BACKGROUND

Common atrioventricular valve (CAVV) repair in patients with a single ventricle remains a great challenge and a refractory issue for pediatric cardiac surgeons. Methods and Results: From January 2007 to April 2018, 37 consecutive patients with a single ventricle who underwent CAVV repair were included in the study group. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the repair technique: patients in Group A were treated using the bivalvation technique, and patients in Group B underwent conventional repair techniques; baseline data were similar between groups. The inhospital and follow-up mortality were 5.4% (2/37) and 11.4% (4/35), respectively. After a follow-up of 65.5±29.3 months, the estimated 1-, 5-, and 10-year overall survival rates were 94.6%, 83.4%, and 77.0%, respectively. The rates of freedom from CAVV failure were 94.3%, 72.7%, and 62.9% after 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, the independent factors for CAVV repair failure were repair technique (P=0.004) and heterotaxy syndrome (P=0.003). A total of 30 patients (81.1%) completed total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC); 3 patients required re-intervention; 24 of 31 patients (77.4%) were in New York Heart Association classes II and I at the latest follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes of CAVV repair in patients palliated by single-ventricular surgery are acceptable. The bivalvation technique is a simple and effective technique.

Transcatheter Mitral Valve Therapy: Defining the Patient Who Will Benefit

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This report aims to define the clinical and anatomic variables key in determining patient suitability for transcatheter mitral valve therapies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Candidacy for transcatheter mitral valve repair requires weighing the clinical variables that may impact the ability to improve patient symptoms and prolong survival that include left ventricular ejection fraction, symptom severity, pulmonary hypertension, and magnitude of residual regurgitation or stenosis. Individualized selection of transcatheter repair or replacement based on patho-anatomy is being explored. The primary goal is achieving significant reduction in mitral regurgitation. Transcatheter mitral valve replacement requires rigorous anatomic screening using computed tomography and candidates should be able to take oral anticoagulation. Selection of patients for transcatheter mitral valve repair is complex and requires intimate knowledge of clinical variables and specific device limitations.

Surgical results of mitral valve repair for congenital mitral valve stenosis in paediatric patients

OBJECTIVES

Mitral valve (MV) repairs have been performed in paediatric patients with congenital MV stenosis. However, congenital MV stenosis lesions are a heterogeneous group of lesions, and their repair remains challenging.

METHODS

From March 1999 to September 2014, MV repair was performed in 22 patients with congenital MV stenosis. The median age was 10.3 months (ranging from 22 days to 9.1 years), and the mean body weight was 7.9 ± 4.0 kg at the time of the operation. Multiple-level left-side heart obstructions were present in 9 (45%) patients.

RESULTS

The main aetiology of the mitral stenosis was a supravalvular mitral ring in 8 patients, valvular stenosis in 4 patients, a parachute deformity of the papillary muscles in 4 patients and other abnormal papillary muscles in 6 patients. The mean MV pressure gradient improved from 10.4 ± 3.9 mmHg to 3.4 ± 1.7 mmHg after MV repair (n = 18, P < 0.0001). The mean follow-up duration was 6.7 ± 5.4 years. One patient died postoperatively due to septic shock. Four patients required a second operation (2 patients for mitral stenosis, 1 patient for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and mitral stenosis and 1 patient for mitral regurgitation). Among them, 2 patients died: 1 patient died due to cardiopulmonary bypass weaning failure and another patient died due to multiple cerebral infarcts. At the last follow-up, the mean MV pressure gradient was 4.5 ± 3.1 mmHg for all patients who did not have reoperation, and moderate or greater mitral insufficiency was detected in 3 patients. At 10 years, the survival rate was 85.9 ± 7.6%, and the freedom from reoperation rate was 77.5 ± 10.1%. In the log-rank test, MV repair in the neonate was associated with mortality (P = 0.010), and presentation of mitral insufficiency was associated with reoperation (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

MV repair in paediatric patients with congenital mitral stenosis showed acceptable results. The follow-up echocardiogram also revealed satisfactory results. Close follow-up is necessary to detect the development of postoperative mitral stenosis or regurgitation.

The impact of pericardial approach and myocardial protection onto postoperative right ventricle function reduction

Background

The reduction of RV function after cardiac surgery is a well-known phenomenon. It could persist up-to one year after the operation and often leads to an incomplete recovery at follow-up echocardiographic control. The aim of the present study is to analyze the impact of different modalities of pericardial incision (lateral versus anterior) and of myocardial protection protocols (Buckberg versus Custodiol) onto postoperative RV dynamic by relating two- and three-dimensional echocardiographic parameters in patients undergoing mitral valve repair through minimally invasive or traditional surgery approach.

Methods

We have analyzed 44 consecutive patients with severe degenerative mitral regurgitation who underwent mitral reparation with different surgical approach and cardioplegia type: Group 1 (17 pts): sternotomy with Buckberg cardioplegia protocol; Group 2 (10 pts): sternotomy with Custodiol cardioplegia; Group 3 (17 pts): mini-invasive surgery with Custodiol cardioplegia. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed pre- and 6 months post-surgery to evaluate RV function by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE).

Results

All patients underwent successful and uneventful. A postoperative TAPSE reduction was found in all groups. However, mini-invasive patients experienced a significant reduced variation versus traditional surgery.

Conclusions

Mini-invasive mitral repair, with lateral incision of pericardium, reduces postoperative TAPSE fall, while cardioplegia protocol fails to have an impact onto longitudinal RV function. In our study, the RV seems to experience a clinically irrelevant geometrical modification too, whose entity appears to be less evident in case of lateral pericardial approach. These results could strengthen the use of minimally invasive approach also to preserve RV function.

Common atrioventricular valve failure during single ventricle palliation†

OBJECTIVES

To determine the risk of atrioventricular valve failure (valve intervention or moderate or greater regurgitation) during the lifetime of patients with single ventricle physiology and common atrioventricular valve.

METHODS

Patients' data were extracted from an existing bi-national, population based registry. A retrospective review of their medical records was undertaken to determine the incidence of atrioventricular valve repair/replacement or moderate or greater regurgitation.

RESULTS

From a registry of 1468 Fontan survivors, 136 patients with common atrioventricular valve were identified. Complete echocardiographic follow-up was available for 114 patients. Median length of follow-up was 10.2 years (interquartile range 5-15 years). Twenty-five year survival and freedom from Fontan failure were 94% [95% confidence interval (CI), 88-100%] and 74% (95% CI, 64-87%), respectively. Twenty-eight patients underwent 24 initial repairs and 4 replacements. The 24 patients undergoing repair subsequently needed 6 re-repairs, 2 replacements and 8 had moderate or greater regurgitation at last follow-up. Four-year freedom from atrioventricular valve repair failure was 50% (95% CI, 34-75%). An additional 30 patients developed moderate or greater atrioventricular valve regurgitation (6 New York Heart Association ≥3, 10 Fontan failures, 0 deaths). Cumulative incidence of the composite endpoint of atrioventricular valve failure at 28 years was 62% (95% CI, 49-74%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with single ventricle physiology and common atrioventricular valve experience a continuous decline in valve function. The majority of patients experience valve failure in the first 30 years of life.

Comparison of 3D Echocardiogram-Derived 3D Printed Valve Models to Molded Models for Simulated Repair of Pediatric Atrioventricular Valves

Mastering the technical skills required to perform pediatric cardiac valve surgery is challenging in part due to limited opportunity for practice. Transformation of 3D echocardiographic (echo) images of congenitally abnormal heart valves to realistic physical models could allow patient-specific simulation of surgical valve repair. We compared materials, processes, and costs for 3D printing and molding of patient-specific models for visualization and surgical simulation of congenitally abnormal heart valves. Pediatric atrioventricular valves (mitral, tricuspid, and common atrioventricular valve) were modeled from transthoracic 3D echo images using semi-automated methods implemented as custom modules in 3D Slicer. Valve models were then both 3D printed in soft materials and molded in silicone using 3D printed "negative" molds. Using pre-defined assessment criteria, valve models were evaluated by congenital cardiac surgeons to determine suitability for simulation. Surgeon assessment indicated that the molded valves had superior material properties for the purposes of simulation compared to directly printed valves (p < 0.01). Patient-specific, 3D echo-derived molded valves are a step toward realistic simulation of complex valve repairs but require more time and labor to create than directly printed models. Patient-specific simulation of valve repair in children using such models may be useful for surgical training and simulation of complex congenital cases.

Mid-term outcomes of congenital mitral valve surgery: Shone's syndrome is a risk factor for death and reintervention

OBJECTIVES

To study the recent trends and outcomes of congenital mitral valve surgery in children.

METHODS

From 2008 to 2014, 84 procedures in 66 consecutive patients (41 procedures in 31 patients with mitral stenosis and 43 procedures in 35 patients with mitral regurgitation) were retrospectively evaluated. The mean age at surgery was 4.3 ± 5.4 years, and 27 patients (41%) were neonates or infants.

RESULTS

Seven (11%) patients died during the follow-up period of 3.2 ± 2.3 years and 5 (71%) were <1 year. Ten mitral valve replacements were performed in 8 patients, including 1 pulmonary valve homograft, 3 Contegra conduits of 12 mm thickness in the intra-annular position and 6 mechanical valves. Shone's syndrome, dysplastic valve, a need for valve replacement and age <1 year were the risk factors for death or reoperation in a univariable analysis, while in a multivariable analysis of all patients, valve replacement and age <1 year remained as risk factors. In a multivariable analysis of 27 patients aged <1 year, mitral valve dysplasia was a significant risk factor for reoperation or death. The 5-year rate of freedom from death or reoperation in neonates or infants was 55% and that in patients aged >1 year was 88% (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

An age of <1 year, mitral valve dysplasia and a need for mitral valve replacement were associated with a higher incidence of death or reoperation. Primary mitral valve replacement or univentricular strategy may have to be considered for symptomatic neonates with Shone's syndrome.

Hospital outcome and short term results

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare the hospital outcome and short term results of tricuspid valve (TV) repair with three repair techniques for functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR), namely, flexible Dacron band, DeVega and segmental annuloplasty.

METHODS

A total of 60 patients underwent TV repair at National Heart Institute from January 2013 to November 2014, of which 20 had DeVega procedure (DV), 20 had a segmental annuloplasty (SA) procedure and 20 had a Dacron band (DB) procedure. Concomitant procedures done for rheumatic left sided valve pathology consisted of mitral valve replacement in 70% of patients, and double valve replacement in 30% of patients. Clinical and echocardiographic follow-up data were obtained. Follow-up was 100% complete and was concluded after one year.

RESULTS

All demographic criteria and preoperative characteristics of the three studied groups were comparable except for preoperative right ventricular (RVEDD) size that was significantly bigger in Dacron band group as compared to the other two groups (3.18 ± 0.43 cm compared to 3.00 ± 0.33 cm (DV) and to 2.88 ± 0.35 cm (SA), p value of (0.045)). Similarly, all operative and postoperative criteria were comparable among the study groups. Noticeably, (RVEDD) size remodeled better postoperatively in (DB) group as compared to the other two groups, (2.54 ± 0.26 cm compared to 2.83 ± 0.311 cm (DV) and to 2.72 ± 0.29 cm (SA), mean difference values were group (0.64 ± 0.47 cm) for (DB) compared to (0.18 ± 0.29 cm) for (DV) or to (0.16 ± 0.45 cm) for (SA) with p value of 0.000. The majority of patients in each group did not have tricuspid regurgitation (TR) or mild degree (+1) of (TR) on discharge. After one year of follow-up, most of the patient had either no regurgitation or grade (+1 TR). Two patients (10%) in DV group and one patient (5%) in SA group had (+3 TR). There was no statistical significance in the incidence of hospital mortality, only one patient died in DB and one in DV group (5%) and no death happened after hospital mortality for the three groups after one year.

CONCLUSIONS

The three techniques are options to repair the tricuspid valve, however, placement of Dacron band in patients undergoing tricuspid valve repair is associated with better RV remodelling, and hence, a probable better right ventricular performance and better outcome of repair is expected. A higher number of patients are needed with longer follow up period to appreciate the effect on survival and rate of freedom from tricuspid regurgitation and re-intervention.

Can Tranexamic Acid Reduce Blood Loss during Major Cardiac Surgery? A Pilot Study

We examined the effectiveness of tranexamic acid in preventing intraoperative blood loss during major cardiac surgery. Out of initial 81 patients undergoing major cardiac surgery (both coronary artery bypass and valve repair procedures) at our teaching hospital, sixty-seven patients were selected for this study. We compared estimated blood loss, decrease in percent hemoglobin and hematocrit following surgery between two groups of patients (none of them received any blood product during surgery), one group receiving no tranexamic acid (n=17) and another group receiving tranexamic acid (n=25). In the second study, we combined these patients with patients receiving modest amounts of blood products (1-2 unit) and compared these parameters between two groups of patients (25 patients received no tranexamic acid, 42 patients received tranexamic acid). In patients who received no blood product during surgery, those who received no tranexamic acid showed statistically significant (independent t-test two tailed at p<0.05) reduced estimated blood loss (mean: 713.5 mL, SD: 351.6, n=17) compared to those who received tranexamic acid (mean: 987.2 mL, SD: 459.9, n=25). We observed similar results when the patients receiving no blood products and patients receiving modest amount of blood products were combined based on the use of tranexamic acid or not. No statistically significant difference was observed in percent reduced hemoglobin or hematocrit following surgery in any group of patients. We conclude that intraoperative antifibrinolytic therapy with tranexamic acid does not reduce intraoperative blood loss during major cardiac surgery which contradicts popular belief.

Operative Outcomes with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Repair: Experience with 586 Patients

INTRODUCTION

American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines recommend mitral valve repair for myxomatous mitral regurgitation whenever possible to prevent LV dysfunction and early mortality. Here we review our early operative outcomes with mitral valve repair for myxomatous mitral regurgitation.

METHODS

We collected data from 586 consecutive patients that underwent mitral repair for myxomatous disease at the Prince Henry and Prince of Wales Hospitals Sydney between 1997 and 2012. All patients had pre- and postoperative transthoracic echocardiograms.

RESULTS

In the first 30 days postoperatively there were five deaths (0.9%), four strokes (0.7%) and five transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) (0.9%). Repair involved resection in 55.5%, neochordal reconstruction in 41.6%, and in 2.9% a combination of both. There was increasing use of neochordae since 2006. At discharge 99% had mitral regurgitation (MR) ≤ mild and ≤ trivial in 79.5%. For posterior leaflet disease neochordae had improved MR at discharge compared with resection (85% vs 78%, P<0.05). Preoperative triscupid regurgitation (TR) and pulmonary hypertension > mild were associated with a greater degree of MR at discharge (P<0.05) for reasons that are unclear.

CONCLUSION

We have shown excellent early results for mitral repair with very low operative mortality and excellent freedom from significant MR. Successful mitral repairs with low morbidity have resulted in a pattern of early referral in keeping with the current guidelines.