Embolization of percutaneous left atrial appendage closure devices: timing, management and clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Left atrial appendage (LAA) occluder embolization is an infrequent but serious complication.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to describe timing, management and clinical outcomes of device embolization in a multi-center registry.

METHODS

Patient characteristics, imaging findings and procedure and follow-up data were collected retrospectively. Device embolizations were categorized according to 1) timing 2) management and 3) clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven centers contributed data. Device embolization occurred in 108 patients. In 70.4 % of cases, it happened within the first 24 h of the procedure. The device was purposefully left in the LA and the aorta in two (1.9 %) patients, an initial percutaneous retrieval was attempted in 81 (75.0 %) and surgery without prior percutaneous retrieval attempt was performed in 23 (21.3 %) patients. Two patients died before a retrieval attempt could be made. In 28/81 (34.6 %) patients with an initial percutaneous retrieval attempt a second, additional attempt was performed, which was associated with a high mortality (death in patients with one attempt: 2.9 % vs. second attempt: 21.4 %, p < 0.001). The primary outcome (bailout surgery, cardiogenic shock, stroke, TIA, and/or death) occurred in 47 (43.5 %) patients. Other major complications related to device embolization occurred in 21 (19.4 %) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of device embolizations after LAA closure occurs early. A percutaneous approach is often the preferred method for a first rescue attempt. Major adverse event rates, including death, are high particularly if the first retrieval attempt was unsuccessful.

CONDENSED ABSTRACT

This dedicated multicenter registry examined timing, management, and clinical outcome of device embolization. Early embolization (70.4 %) was most frequent. As a first rescue attempt, percutaneous retrieval was preferred in 75.0 %, followed by surgical removal (21.3 %). In patients with a second retrieval attempt a higher mortality (death first attempt: 2.9 % vs. death second attempt: 24.1 %, p < 0.001) was observed. Mortality (10.2 %) and the major complication rate after device embolization were high.

Safety and feasibility of same-day discharge following uncomplicated transvenous lead extraction

INTRODUCTION

Transvenous lead extraction (TLE), while mostly a safe procedure, has risk of serious periprocedural complications. As such, overnight hospitalization remains a routine practice. In our center, we routinely discharge patients on the same day following an uncomplicated TLE.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 265 consecutive patients who underwent uncomplicated TLE in our center between 2019 and 2021. Same-day discharge (SDD) patients are compared with those who stayed at least overnight for observation after the TLE procedure (non-SDD group). To assess the safety of an SDD strategy after uncomplicated TLE, the main study endpoint was to compare the rate of major procedure-related complications at 1-, 7-, and 30-days. To identify the factors influencing the operator's decision to discharge the patient on the same day, the secondary endpoint was to analyze clinical and procedural predictors of SDD.

RESULTS

A total of 153 patients were discharged the same day after uncomplicated TLE (SDD), while 112 stayed at least overnight after the procedure (non-SDD). There was no significant difference in major procedure-related complications at 1-day (SDD 0% vs. non-SDD 1.8%, p value = ns), while patients in the SDD group had a lower rate of 7- and 30-day complications when compared with those in the non-SDD group (2.1% vs. 8.2%, p value = .0308; and 3.5% vs. 16%, p value = .0049, respectively). Noninfectious indication for TLE (OR 16.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.29-77.6) and procedure end time before 12:00 (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.11-7.27) were the only independent predictors of SDD.

CONCLUSION

SDD discharge following uncomplicated TLE in selected patients (i.e., those without device infection and when the TLE procedure is completed in the morning) is feasible and safe.

Lower rate of major bleeding in very high risk patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion: A propensity score-matched comparison with direct oral anticoagulation

BACKGROUND

Long-term oral anticoagulation is the mainstay therapy for thromboembolic (TE) prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) could be a safe alternative to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with a very high TE risk profile.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of LAAO vs DOACs in patients with atrial fibrillation at very high stroke risk (CHA2DS2-VASc [congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, prior stroke or transient ischemic attack or thromboembolism, vascular disease, age 65-74 years, sex category] score ≥ 5).

METHODS

Data from patients with CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 5 were extracted from a prospective multicenter database. To attenuate the imbalance in covariates between groups, propensity score matching was used (covariates: CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED [hypertension, abnormal renal or liver function, stroke, bleeding, labile international normalized ratio, elderly, drugs or alcohol] scores), which resulted in a matched population of 277 patients per group. The primary end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, TE events, and clinically relevant bleeding during follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 2381 patients, 554 very high risk patients were included in the study (mean age 79 ± 7 years; CHA2DS2-VASc score 5.8 ± 0.9; HAS-BLED score 3.0 ± 0.9). The mean follow-up duration was 25 ± 11 months. A higher incidence of the composite end point was documented with DOACs compared with LAAO (14.9 events per 100 patient-years in the DOAC group vs 9.4 events per 100 patient-years in the LAAO group; P = .03). The annualized clinically relevant bleeding risk was higher with DOACs (6.3% vs 3.2%; P = .04), while the risk of TE events was not different between groups (4.1% vs 3.2%; P = .63).

CONCLUSION

In high-risk patients, LAAO had a similar stroke prevention efficacy but a significantly lower risk of clinically relevant bleeding when compared with DOACs. The clinical benefit of LAAO became significant after 18 months of follow-up.

Bilateral Cardiac Sympathetic Denervation for Refractory Multifocal Premature Ventricular Contractions in Patients With Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Bilateral cardiac sympathetic denervation (BCSD) for refractory life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias is a neuromodulatory intervention targeting sympathetically driven focal or re-entrant ventricular arrhythmias.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to provide a more complete and successful option for intervention in patients in whom premature ventricular contraction (PVC) ablation is not feasible or has been unsuccessful.

METHODS

A total of 43 patients with >5% PVC burden and concomitant nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) who previously failed medical and ablation therapies were referred for BCSD. All patients underwent bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical approach with T1-T4 sympathectomy. Primary effectiveness endpoints were postprocedural PVC burden resolution, improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and cessation of antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs). Safety endpoints included peri- and postprocedural complications. Outcomes were assessed over a 1-year follow-up period.

RESULTS

Among the 43 patients who underwent BCSD, the mean age was 52.3 ± 14.7 years, 69.8% of whom were male patients. Presenting mean LVEF was 38.7% ± 7.8%, and PVC burden was 23.7% ± 9.9%. There were significant reductions in PVC burden postprocedurally (1.3% ± 1.1% post-BCSD, compared with 23.7% ± 9.9% pre-BCSD, P < 0.001) and improvements in LVEF (46.3% ± 9.5% post-BCSD, compared with 38.7% ± 7.8% pre-BCSD, P < 0.001). The rate of ICD therapies decreased from 81.4% (n = 35) to 11.6% (n = 5) (P < 0.001), leading to a significant reduction in use of AADs (100.0% to 11.6%, P < 0.001) and improvement in mean NYHA functional class (2.5 ± 0.5 to 1.4 ± 0.2, P < 0.001). Major intraoperative complications were seen in 4.7% of patients (hemothorax and chylothorax). Of the patients, 81.4% (n = 35) experienced no mortality or major complications over a 1-year follow-up period, with the remaining still within their first year postprocedure.

CONCLUSIONS

BCSD is effective for the management of refractory PVCs and ventricular tachycardia who have failed previous ablation therapy.

Three-dimensional intracardiac echocardiography for left atrial appendage sizing and percutaneous occlusion guidance

AIMS

Left atrial appendage (LAA) imaging is critical during percutaneous occlusion procedures. 3D-intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) features direct visualization of LAA from multiple cross-sectional planes at a time. We aimed at reporting procedural success of 3D-ICE-guided LAA occlusion and the correlation between pre-procedural transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and intraprocedural 3D-ICE for LAA sizing.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Among 274 patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) with a Watchman FLX, periprocedural ICE guidance was achieved via a commercially available 2D-ICE catheter (220 patients) or a novel (NUVISION™) 3D-ICE one (54 patients). Primary endpoint was a composite of procedural success and LAA sealing at follow-up TEE. Secondary endpoint was a composite of periprocedural device recapture/resizing plus presence of leaks ≥ 3 mm at follow-up TEE. 3D-ICE measurements of maximum landing zone correlated highly with pre-procedural TEE reference values [Pearson's: 0.94; P < 0.001; bias: -0.06 (-2.39, 2.27)]. The agreement between 3D-ICE-based device selection and final device size was 96.3% vs. 79.1% with 2D-ICE (P = 0.005). The incidence of the primary endpoint was 98.1% with 3D-ICE and 97.3% with 2D-ICE (P = 0.99). 2D-ICE patients had a trend towards a higher incidence of periprocedural device recapture/redeployment (31.5% vs. 44.5%; P = 0.09). The secondary endpoint occurred in 31.5% of 3D-ICE patients vs. 45.9% of 2D-ICE ones (P = 0.065).

CONCLUSION

Intracardiac echocardiography-guided LAAO showed a very high success, with no major adverse events. A very high level of agreement for LAA sizing was found between pre-procedural TEE and periprocedural 3D-ICE. 3D-ICE performed significantly better than 2D-ICE for FLX size selection and may provide better guidance during device deployment.

Pulsed electric field, cryoballoon, and radiofrequency for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation: a propensity score-matched comparison

AIMS

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has emerged as a novel, non-thermal energy source to selectively ablate cardiac tissue. We describe a multicentre experience on pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) via the pentaspline Farapulse™ PFA system vs. thermal-based technologies in a propensity score-matched population of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Propensity score matching was adopted to compare PVI-only ablation outcomes via the Farawave™ system (Group PFA), cryoballoon (Group CRYO), or focal radiofrequency (Group RF) (PFA:CRYO:RF ratio = 1:2:2). Among 1572 (mean age: 62.4 ± 11.3 years; 42.5% females) PAF patients undergoing first time PVI with either PFA (n = 174), CRYO (n = 655), or RF (n = 743), propensity score matching yielded 174 PFA, 348 CRYO, and 348 RF patients. First-pass isolation was achieved in 98.8% of pulmonary veins (PVs) with PFA, 81.5% with CRYO, and 73.1% with RF (P < 0.001). Procedural and dwell times were significantly shorter with PFA, whereas the availability of a 3D mapping system led to a significant reduction in X-ray exposure with RF. Overall complication rates were 3.4% (n = 6) with PFA, 8.6% (n = 30) with CRYO, and 5.5% (n = 19) with RF (P = 0.052). The 1-year Kaplan-Meier estimated freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia was 79.3% with PFA, 74.7% with CRYO, and 72.4% with RF (log-rank P-value: 0.24). Among 145 repeat ablation procedures, PV reconnection rate was 19.1% after PFA, 27.5% after CRYO, and 34.8% after RF (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Pulsed field ablation contributed to significantly shorter procedural times. Follow-up data showed a similar arrhythmia freedom, although a higher rate of PV reconnection was documented in post-CRYO and post-RF redo procedures.

Prognostic value of chronic kidney disease in patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion

AIMS

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) often coexist and share an increased risk of thrombo-embolism (TE). CKD concomitantly predisposes towards a pro-haemorrhagic state. Our aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of CKD in patients undergoing percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO).

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 2124 consecutive AF patients undergoing LAAO were categorized into CKD stage 1+2 (n = 1089), CKD stage 3 (n = 796), CKD stage 4 (n = 170), and CKD stage 5 (n = 69) based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate at baseline. The primary endpoint included cardiovascular (CV) mortality, TE, and major bleeding. The expected annual TE and major bleeding risks were estimated based on the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores. A non-significant higher incidence of major peri-procedural adverse events (1.7 vs. 2.3 vs. 4.1 vs. 4.3) was observed with worsening CKD (P = 0.14). The mean follow-up period was 13 ± 7 months (2226 patient-years). In comparison to CKD stage 1+2 as a reference, the incidence of the primary endpoint was significantly higher in CKD stage 3 (log-rank P-value = 0.04), CKD stage 4 (log-rank P-value = 0.01), and CKD stage 5 (log-rank P-value = 0.001). Left atrial appendage occlusion led to a TE risk reduction (RR) of 72, 66, 62, and 41% in each group. The relative RR of major bleeding was 58, 44, 51, and 52%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients with moderate-to-severe CKD had a higher incidence of the primary composite endpoint. The relative RR in the incidence of TE and major bleeding was consistent across CKD groups.

Mechanism and management of leaks arising after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC)

This article reviews the latest available data in regard to the diagnosis, management, and intervention of both central and peri-device leaks that arise after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC). The aim of this article is to have a better understanding of both addressing leaks arising after LAAC, and which interventions and closure methods are best served for each type of residual leak based on etiology, size, and operator experience.

Left ventricular functional recovery after atrial fibrillation catheter ablation in heart failure: a prediction model

AIMS

Management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and concomitant heart failure (HF) remains complex. The Antwerp score, based on four parameters [QRS >120 ms (2 points), known aetiology (2 points), paroxysmal AF (1 point), severe atrial dilation (1 point)] adequately estimated the probability of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) recovery after AF ablation in a single-centre cohort. The present study aims to externally validate this prediction model in a large European multi-centre cohort.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 605 patients (61.1 ± 9.4 years, 23.8% females, 79.8% with persistent AF) with HF and impaired LVEF (<50%) undergoing AF ablation in 8 European centres were retrospectively identified. According to the LVEF changes at 12-month echocardiography, 427 (70%) patients fulfilled the '2021 Universal Definition of HF' criteria for LVEF recovery and were defined as 'responders'. External validation of the score yielded good discrimination and calibration {area under the curve 0.86 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82-0.89], P < .001; Hosmer-Lemeshow P = .29}. Patients with a score < 2 had a 93% probability of LVEF recovery as opposed to only 24% in patients with a score > 3. Responders experienced more often positive ventricular remodelling [odds ratio (OR) 8.91, 95% CI 4.45-17.84, P < .001], fewer HF hospitalizations (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.05-0.18, P < .001) and lower mortality (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.04-0.31, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

In this multi-centre study, a simple four-parameter score predicted LVEF recovery after AF ablation in patients with HF and discriminated clinical outcomes. These findings support the use of the Antwerp score to standardize shared decision-making regarding AF ablation referral in future clinical studies.

Outcomes of catheter ablation of atrial tachyarrhythmia guided exclusively by activation mapping

INTRODUCTION

Complex atrial tachyarrhythmias (CATs) are commonly observed in patients with prior catheter ablation or cardiac surgery. These arrhythmias are challenging to map and ablate. Historically, entrainment mapping was utilized to characterize CAT. With the advent of high-definition mapping (HDM), full visualization of the CAT circuit is possible which may obviate the need for entrainment mapping.

METHODS

We sought to investigate the outcomes of catheter ablation of CAT guided only by HDM. Consecutive patients who underwent CAT ablation from 2017 to 2021 were included in our study (excluding right atrial tachyarrhythmias). Patients were sorted by the type of mapping performed. Group I consisted of patients where HDM alone was utilized with no attempt of entrainment. Group II consisted of patients where both entrainment and HDM were utilized.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients were included in our study, with 40 patients in HDM group (I) and 27 patients in entrainment group (II). No statistically significant difference regarding 1-year freedom from atrial arrhythmias was found between the two groups (80% vs 77.8%, p = 0.819). Four CATs were terminated by entrainment during procedure versus none in the HDM-only group (p = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

CAT ablation with HDM alone yielded similar 1-year freedom from atrial arrhythmias compared to ablation with HDM and entrainment. Entrainment combined with HDM was associated with higher undesired CAT interruption rate. Further validation is needed with randomized control trials.

"Function follows form": Role of cardiac magnetic resonance for ventricular arrhythmia risk stratification in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac involvement is common and may become clinically relevant in approximately 5%-10% of patients with systemic sarcoidosis. Although reduced left ventricular ejection fraction is a recognized predictor of mortality, recent studies have suggested an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmia (VAs) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) and evidence of late gadolinium enhancement-cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR), irrespective of the underlying left ventricular systolic function. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the correlation between VAs/SCD and presence of LGE-CMR in CS patients.

METHODS

We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane electronic databases up to January 2, 2023, for studies enrolling patients with suspected or confirmed CS undergoing LGE-CMR. Clinical outcomes of interest included clinically relevant VAs, defined as sustained ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, SCD, or aborted SCD during follow-up. The effect size was estimated using a random-effect model as risk ratio (RR) and relative 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies fulfilled the selection criteria and were included in the final analysis. Among 1273 patients, LGE was detected in 465 (36.5%; Group LGE+). Males accounted for 45.2% (95% CI: 40.5%-55.7%) of the total population and the average age was 56.8 (95% CI: 52.7%-60.9) years. A total of 104 (22.3%) of 465 LGE+ patients experienced a clinically relevant VA, compared to 6 (0.7%) of 808 LGE- ones. LGE+ was associated with a ninefold increased risk in life-threatening VAs (22.3% vs. 0.7%; RR = 9.52; 95% CI [5.18-17.49]; p < .0001) compared to patients without LGE (heterogeneity I2  = 0%).

CONCLUSION

In our meta-analysis, LGE+ in patients with CS was associated with a ninefold increased risk in life-threatening VAs compared to patients without LGE.

Axillary vein puncture versus cephalic vein cutdown for cardiac implantable electronic device implantation: A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Cephalic vein cutdown (CVC) and axillary vein puncture (AVP) are both recommended for transvenous implantation of leads for cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). Nonetheless, it is still debated which of the two techniques has a better safety and efficacy profile.

METHODS

We systematically searched Medline, Embase, and Cochrane electronic databases up to September 5, 2022, for studies that evaluated the efficacy and safety of AVP and CVC reporting at least one clinical outcome of interest. The primary endpoints were acute procedural success and overall complications. The effect size was estimated using a random-effect model as risk ratio (RR) and relative 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Overall, seven studies were included, which enrolled 1771 and 3067 transvenous leads (65.6% [n = 1162] males, average age 73.4 ± 14.3 years). Compared to CVC, AVP showed a significant increase in the primary endpoint (95.7 % vs. 76.1 %; RR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.09-1.40; p = .001) (Figure 1). Total procedural time (mean difference [MD]: -8.25 min; 95% CI: -10.23 to -6.27; p < .0001; I2  = 0%) and venous access time (MD: -6.24 min; 95% CI: -7.01 to -5.47; p < .0001; I2  = 0%) were significantly shorter with AVP compared to CVC. No differences were found between AVP and CVC for incidence overall complications (RR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.28-1.10; p = .09), pneumothorax (RR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.13-4.0; p = .71), lead failure (RR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.23-1.48; p = .26), pocket hematoma/bleeding (RR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.15-2.23; p = .43), device infection (RR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.14-6.60; p = .96) and fluoroscopy time (MD: -0.24 min; 95% CI: -0.75 to 0.28; p = .36).

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis suggests that AVP may improve procedural success and reduce total procedural time and venous access time compared to CVC.

Best ablation strategy in patients with premature ventricular contractions with multiple morphology: a single-centre experience

AIMS

This study aimed to examine the clinical benefits of targeted ablation of all Premature ventricular complex (PVC) morphologies vs. predominant PVC only.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 171 consecutive patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and ≥2 PVC morphology with high burden (>10%/day) undergoing their first ablation procedure were included in the analysis. At the initial procedure, prevalent PVC alone was ablated in the majority. However, at the redo, all PVC morphologies were targeted for ablation. : At the first procedure, 152 (89%) patients received ablation of the dominant PVC only. In the remaining 19 (11%) patients, all PVC morphologies were ablated. At two years, high PVC burden was detected in 89 (52%) patients. Repeat procedure was performed in 78 of 89, where all PVC morphologies were ablated. At 5 years after the repeat procedure, 71 (91%) had PVC burden of <5% [3.8 ± 1.1% vs. 15.4 ± 4.3% in successful vs. failed subjects (P < 0.001)]. In patients with low PVC burden after the initial procedure, LVEF improved from 37.5% to 41.6% [mean difference (MD): 3.39 ± 2.9%, P < 0.001], whereas a reduction in LVEF from 39.8% to 34.5% (MD: 6.45 ± 4.7%, P < 0.001) was recorded in patients with high PVC burden. One year after the repeat procedure, LVEF improved from 36.2% to 41.7% (MD: 5.5 ± 4.3%, P < 0.001) in patients with successful ablation.

CONCLUSION

In this observational series, ablation of all PVC morphologies was associated with significantly lower PVC burden and improvement of LVEF at long-term follow-up, compared with ablation of the dominant morphology only.

Impact of Colchicine Monotherapy on the Risk of Acute Pericarditis Following Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

BACKGROUND

Acute pericarditis is a known complication of ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation (AF).

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of colchicine monotherapy in terms of reducing the risk of pericarditis and related hospitalization rate in AF patients undergoing catheter ablation.

METHODS

Consecutive AF patients undergoing first catheter ablation were classified into 3 groups based on their colchicine use: Group 1: no colchicine; group 2: colchicine from 7 days before to 1 month after ablation; and group 3: colchicine from the day of the procedure to 1 month after. Standard institutional protocol was used to follow all patients for 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 1,075 patients were classified into groups 1 (n = 607), 2 (n = 213), and 3 (n = 255). Symptoms of acute pericarditis were reported in 129 patients (12%): group 1: n = 106 (17.5%); group 2: n = 4 (1.9%); and group 3: n = 19 (7.5%); P < 0.001. Rate of mild-moderate as well as severe pericarditis were significantly lower in group 2. In the multivariable regression analysis, pre- and post-ablation colchicine use was seen to be associated with significantly lower risk of acute pericarditis and related hospitalization compared with the other 2 groups. In addition, at 1-year follow-up, arrhythmia-free survival rate was significantly higher in paroxysmal AF patients receiving colchicine compared with the no-colchicine population.

CONCLUSIONS

Colchicine therapy starting 7 days before to 1 month after the ablation procedure was associated with significantly lower risk of acute pericarditis and related hospitalization. In addition, paroxysmal AF patients receiving colchicine had a higher arrhythmia-free survival rate compared with those not receiving colchicine.

Clinical outcomes of left atrial appendage occlusion in patients with previous intracranial or gastrointestinal bleeding: Insights from the LOGIC (Left atrial appendage Occlusion in patients with Gastrointestinal or IntraCranial bleeding) International Multicenter Registry

AIMS

To compare outcomes of patients who underwent left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and contraindication to anticoagulants due to history of either gastrointestinal (GI) or intracranial (IC) bleeding.

METHODS

Patients with NVAF that underwent LAAO for GI or IC bleeding from seven centers were included in this observational study. Baseline characteristics, procedural features, and follow-up data were collected, and compared between the two groups. The primary outcomes were incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic events at 12-month.

RESULTS

Six hundred twenty-eight patients were included, 57% with previous GI-bleeding, and 43% with previous IC-bleeding. Median CHA 2 DS 2-VASc score was 4 (interquartile range [IQRs]: 3-5) for both GI-bleeding and IC-bleeding patients, while GI-bleeding patients had a higher HAS-BLED score (4 [IQRs: 3-4] vs. 3 [IQRs]: 2-3]; p = 0.001). At 12-month follow-up, relative risk reduction for stroke was similar between the two groups. The GI-bleeding group had more hemorrhagic events compared to IC-bleeding group (any bleeding 8.4% vs. 3.2%; p = 0.012; major bleeding BARC 3-5: 4.3% vs. 1.8; p = 0.010). At multivariate analysis history of GI bleeding was an independent predictor of hemorrhagic events (adjusted HR: 2.39, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-5.63; p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes after LAAO may be affected by the different indications for the procedure. In our study, GI-bleeding and IC-bleeding as indication to LAAO differ in their baseline characteristics. LAAO confirms its efficacy in ischemic risk reduction in both groups, while GI bleeding seems to be an independent predictor of bleeding recurrence at 12 months behind the antithrombotic regimen.

Prevalence of atrial fibrillation and procedural outcome in patients undergoing catheter ablation for premature ventricular complexes

INTRODUCTION

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and premature ventricular complexes (PVC) are common arrhythmias. We aimed to investigate AF prevalence in patients with PVC and its impact on PVC ablation outcomes.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing PVC ablation at a single institution between 2016 and 2019 were included and prospectively followed for 2 years. Patients with severe valvular heart disease, hyperthyroidism, malignancy, alcohol use disorder and advanced renal/hepatic diseases were excluded. Twelve-lead electrocardiograms were used to diagnose AF and assess PVC morphology. All PVCs were targeted for ablation using 4-mm irrigated-tip catheters at standardized radiofrequency power guided by 3-D mapping and intracardiac echocardiography. Patients were followed with remote monitoring, device interrogations and office visits every 6 months for 2 years. Detection of any PVCs in follow-up was considered as recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 394 patients underwent PVC ablation and 96 (24%) had concurrent AF. Patients with PVC and AF were significantly older (68.2 ± 10.8 vs. 58.3 ± 15.8 years, p < .001), had lower LV ejection fraction (43.3 ± 13.3% vs. 49.6 ± 12.4%, p < .001), higher CHA₂ DS₂ -VASc (2.8 ± 1.3 vs. 2.0 ± 1.3, p < .001) than those without. PVCs with ≥2 morphologies were detected in 60.4% and 13.7% patients with vs without AF (p < .001). At 2-year follow-up, PVC recurrence rate was significantly higher in patients with vs without AF (17.7% vs. 9.4%, p = .02).

CONCLUSION

AF was documented in 1/4 of patients undergoing PVC ablation and was associated with lower procedural success at long-term follow-up. This was likely attributed to older age, worse LV function and higher prevalence of multiple PVC morphologies in patients with concurrent AF.

Poster No. 128 Association of platelet markers with occurrence of thromboembolic and bleeding events following left atrial appendage occlusion

Background

Patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) often are at increased risk for bleeding or thromboembolic events. In most implanting centers, baseline blood is drawn as a pre-procedural check-up. However, it is unknown what laboratory parameters have added value in this specific population. Platelet count (PLC) and mean platelet volume (MPV) may identify which patients are at risk for thromboembolic events or bleeding.

Materials and methods

Five implanting centers retrospectively gathered data on pre-procedural platelet markers. Composite endpoints on thromboembolic events (stroke, transient ischemic attack, device-related thrombus and systemic embolism) and bleeding (minor, major, and intracranial hemorrhage) were collected.

Results and conclusions

A total of 1138 patients were included (73 ± 8 years, 63% male, CHA2DS2-VASc: 4.4 ± 1.5; HAS-BLED: 3.2 ± 1.1). Implanted devices consisted of Watchman 2.5/FLX (n = 778), Amplatzer Cardiac Plug/AMULET (n = 315), or another device (n = 45). Baseline PLC was present in 91% and MPV in 41%. PLC was significantly lower in the 97 patients developing a thromboembolic event (206 ± 73 vs. 225 ± 72*10*9/L, P = 0.028), but no difference in MPV was observed (9.7 ± 1.4 vs. 9.5 ± 1.5 fL, P = 0.40). In another 97 patients, significant bleeding was observed during follow-up. No difference in baseline PLC was found (216 ± 79 vs. 207 ± 72*10^9/L, P = 0.30) and a trend towards lower MPV could be observed (9.5 ± 1.3 vs. 9.8 ± 1.5 fL, P = 0.07). Patients developing bleeding more often were discharged with antiplatelet therapy, while patients developing a thromboembolic event more often received anticoagulation therapy. In conclusion, occurrence of a thromboembolic event was associated with lower baseline PLC, which may be explained by PLC being lower in more frail patients.

Hybrid Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: A Contemporary Overview

Electrical isolation of pulmonary veins (PVI) is the cornerstone of invasive treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, arrhythmia-free survival of a PVI only approach is suboptimal in patients with persistent and long-term persistent AF. Hybrid AF ablation has been developed with the aim of combining the advantages of a thoracoscopic surgical ablation (direct visualization of anatomical structures to be spared and the possibility to perform epicardial lesions) and endocardial ablation (possibility to check line block, confirm PVI, and possibility to perform cavotricuspid isthmus ablation). Patient selection is of utmost importance. In persistent and long-term persistent AF, hybrid AF ablation demonstrated promising results in terms of AF free survival. It has been associated with a relatively low complication rate if performed in centers with expertise in hybrid procedures and experience with both surgical and endocardial ablation. Different techniques have been described, with different approaches and lesion sets. The aim of this review is to provide a state-of-the-art overview of hybrid AF ablation.

Transesophageal Echocardiography Following Left Atrial Appendage Electrical Isolation: Diagnostic Pitfalls and Clinical Implications

BACKGROUND

Following left atrial appendage (LAA) electrical isolation, the decision on whether to continue oral anticoagulation after successful atrial fibrillation ablation is based on the study of its mechanical function on transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). In this cohort, LAA contraction is absent and the incorrect interpretation of emptying flow velocities can lead to unwanted clinical sequelae.

METHODS

One hundred and sixty consecutive TEE exams performed to evaluate the LAA mechanical function following its electrical isolation were reviewed by an experienced operator blinded to the original diagnosis of LAA dysfunction. The rate of diagnostic discrepancy in the assessment LAA dysfunction and its clinical implications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Diagnostic discrepancy with misclassification of the LAA mechanical function occurred 36% (58/160) of TEE exams. In most cases (57/58), such discrepancy was observed in the setting of an incorrect original diagnosis of a normal LAA mechanical function despite absent/reduced or inconsistent LAA contraction. This main source of this wrong diagnosis was the wrong interpretation of passive LAA flows (34/57; 60%), followed by failure to identify dissociated firing (15/57; 26%). In rare cases (8/57; 14%), velocities of surrounding structures were interpreted as LAA flow due to misplacement of the pulsed-wave Doppler sample volume. Following LAA isolation, the proportion of patients who experienced a cerebrovascular event while off oral anticoagulation due to the misclassification of their LAA mechanical function was 70% (7/10 [95% CI, 40%-89%]).

CONCLUSIONS

Underdiagnosis of LAA mechanical dysfunction is common in TEEs performed following LAA electrical isolation, and it is associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular events owing to oral anticoagulation discontinuation despite absent/reduced LAA contraction. Careful review of the TEE exam by an operator with specific expertise in LAA imaging and familiar with the functional implications of LAA isolation is necessary before interrupting oral anticoagulation in this cohort.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiac Electronic Device Management and Role of Remote Monitoring

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide pandemic, patients with cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) refused scheduled follow-up visits because of the risk of infection. In this scenario, different telemedicine strategies have been implemented to ensure continuity of care to CIED patients. Patients can be monitored through dedicated applications, telephone calls, or virtual visits providing easy access to valuable information, such as arrhythmic events, acute decompensation manifestations, and device-related issues, without the need for in-person visits. This review provides a comprehensive description of the many possible applications of telemedicine for CIED patients during the COVID-19 period.

Electrocardiographic Features of Patients with COVID-19: An Updated Review

Numerous systemic manifestations, including cardiac involvement in the form of myocardial infarction, myocarditis, and electrocardiographic changes, have been associated with COVID-19..In this review, the authors describe the electrocardiographic features that have been reported to date in patients affected by this disease and their possible underlying mechanisms.

Leak closure following left atrial appendage exclusion procedures: A multicenter registry

BACKGROUND

Though infrequent, incomplete left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) may result from residual leaks. Percutaneous closure has been described though data is limited.

METHODS

We compiled a registry from four centers of patients undergoing percutaneous closure of residual leaks following LAAC via surgical means or with the Watchman device. Leak severity was classified as none (no leak), mild (1-2 mm), moderate (3-4 mm), or severe (≥5 mm). Procedural and clinical success was defined as the elimination of leak or mild residual leak at the conclusion of the procedure or follow-up, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 72 (age 72.2 ± 9.2 years; 67% male) patients, 53 had undergone prior LAAC using the Watchman device and 19 patients surgical LAAC. Mean CHADS₂ -VA₂ Sc score was 4.0 ± 1.8. The median leak size was 5 mm, range: 2-13). A total of 13 received Amplatzer Vascular Plug-II, 18 received Amplatzer Duct Occluder-II and 40 patients received coils. One underwent closure using a 21 mm-Watchman. Procedural success was 94%. Zero surgical and nine Watchman patients (13%) had a residual leak at procedural-end (five mild, three moderate, and one severe)-only one patient had no reduction in leak size. Overall leak size reduction was 94%. Two (3%) had intraoperative pericardial effusion. There were no device embolizations, device-related thrombi, or procedural deaths. Clinical success was maintained at 94%. Two had cerebrovascular accidents-at 2 days (transient ischemic attack) and 10 months postprocedure. Two had major bleeding outside the 30-day periprocedural window.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous closure of residual leaks following left atrial appendage closure is feasible and associated with good outcomes. The procedural risk appears to be satisfactory.

The Connubium among diabetes, chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation

The burden of cardiovascular comorbid conditions was significantly higher in patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AF); most of them are affected by hypertension, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and/or Diabetes Mellitus (DM). DM represents a well-known risk factor for the development and maintenance of AF; the coexistence of DM and AF is also associated with an increased risk of mortality and stroke. Moreover, DM is currently the main cause of renal impairment and the leading cause of dialysis in the world. The hyperglycemia is responsible for inducing redox imbalance and both systemic and intrarenal inflammation, playing a critical role in the pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease. Long-term thromboembolic preventive therapy in AF patients with DM and CKD may be more challenging because both DM and CKD have been independently associated with an increased thromboembolic and bleeding risk, which results from the prothrombotic and pro-inflammatory status. Vitamin K Antagonists (VKAs) are characterized by numerous critical issues such as a narrow therapeutic window, increased tissue calcification and an unfavourable risk/benefit ratio with low stroke prevention effect and augmented risk of major bleeding. On the other hand, Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) are currently contraindicated in dialysis patients even if mounting evidence suggests that they may have a nephroprotective role in AF patients with DM and CKD. Consequently, the choice of anticoagulant therapy in this setting of patient seems to be very challenging. The aim of this review is to investigate the role of DOACs in diabetic patients and its nephroprotective role by reviewing the current literature.

754 Non-conducted premature atrial complexes: a new predictor for atrial fibrillation in cryptogenic stroke patients

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the main cardiac cause of stroke, but it frequently remains undetected. In these patient monitoring for AF is recommended using a Holter electrocardiogram (ECG). The aim of the present study is to study non-conducted atrial complexes (ncPAC) recorded on Holter ECG as a new predictor of AF.

Methods and results

Patients admitted to the Stroke Unit of our hospital for cryptogenic stroke from December 2018 to January 2020 who underwent 24-h electrocardiographic monitoring were prospectively enrolled in the study and were subsequently submitted to 3-month and 6-month follow-up to investigate the occurrence of AF. The study recruited 112 patients. At follow-up visit, AF was diagnosed in 21.4% of the population. The only statistically significant difference between the group with and without a AF diagnosis was the presence of ncPAC (83.3% vs. 16.7%; P &lt; 0.0001). ROC analysis was performed and showed that ncPAC had the best diagnostic accuracy in the AF diagnosis [AUC: 0.798; confidence interval (CI): 0.675–0.921]. The AUC of ncPAC was significantly better than the AUC of premature atrial complexes (PACs) (P &lt; 0.05), CHA2DS2-VASc, HATCH, HAVOC, and C2HEST scores (P &lt; 0.01). Kaplan–Meier curve survival estimate for AF onset by the presence of ncPAC revealed that there was a significant difference in the AF onset between patients with ncPAC and those without (P &lt; 0.0001) and multivariate Cox-proportional hazard analysis revealed that ncPAC presence was an independent predictors of AF onset [hazards ratio (HR): 9.28; CI 95%: 2,66–32,40; P = 0.0001].

Conclusions

The presence of ncPAC represents a new predictor of AF that could further guide the investigation of AF in patients with cryptogenic stroke.

RETRACTED:B-PO04-095 ESOPHAGEAL TEMPERATURE MONITORING DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION ABLATION WITH THE PULSED FIELD ABLATION SYSTEM

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the authors. The authors inadvertently specified some ablation settings in the methods section that should not have been reported because they can be potentially linked to a specific pulsed field ablation technology that is currently under investigation for FDA approval. The Authors apologize for the inconvenience caused by this oversight<insert 'Reason' text (to be provided by the Editor-in-Chief or written by the Publisher and approved by the Editor-in-Chief and then approved by the R&R panel). In case of (suspected) plagiarism, it is mandatory to refer to the plagiarized work here by <Abbreviated Journal Title, volume (year) first page - last page>, http://dx.doi.org/<DOI of plagiarized work (in URL format) coded as inter-ref if possible>.

RETRACTED:B-AB03-04 CEREBRAL MICROEMBOLIC SIGNAL BURDEN DURING PULSED FILED ABLATION: PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM ROBOTICALLY ASSISTED TRANSCRANIAL DOPPLER

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the authors. The authors inadvertently specified some ablation settings in the methods section that should not have been reported because they can be potentially linked to a specific pulsed field ablation technology that is currently under investigation for FDA approval. The Authors apologize for the inconvenience caused by this oversight<insert 'Reason' text (to be provided by the Editor-in-Chief or written by the Publisher and approved by the Editor-in-Chief and then approved by the R&R panel). In case of (suspected) plagiarism, it is mandatory to refer to the plagiarized work here by <Abbreviated Journal Title, volume (year) first page - last page>, http://dx.doi.org/<DOI of plagiarized work (in URL format) coded as inter-ref if possible>.