New therapeutic approach for tricuspid regurgitation: Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement or repair

The tricuspid valve is a complex structure with normal function dependent on the leaflet morphology, right atrial and annular dynamics, and right ventricular and chordal support. Thus, the pathophysiology of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is equally complex and current medical and surgical management options are limited. Transcatheter devices are currently being investigated as possible treatment options with lower morbidity and mortality than open surgical procedures. These devices can be divided by their implant location/mechanism of action: leaflet approximation devices, annuloplasty devices, orthotopic valve implants, and heterotopic valve implants. The current review will discuss each class of transcatheter device therapy, and further delve into the current understanding of who and when to treat. Finally, we will include a brief discussion of the future of device and surgical therapy trials for TR and the remaining questions to answer about this complex disease process.

Symptomatic Deep Vein Thrombosis Associated With Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters of Different Diameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

We assessed the relationship between peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) diameters and symptomatic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rates. We conducted a systematic search for articles published between 2010 and 2021 reporting DVT incidence by catheter diameter in patients who had a PICC, followed by meta-analyses for DVT risk in each diameter group. Pooled DVT rates were incorporated into an economic model. Of 1627 abstracts screened, 47 studies were included. The primary meta-analysis of 40 studies demonstrated the incidence of DVT was 0.89%, 3.26%, 5.46%, and 10.66% for 3, 4, 5, and 6 French (Fr) PICCs (P  =  .01 between 4 and 5 Fr). Rates of DVT were not significantly different between oncology and nononcology patients (P  =  .065 for 4 Fr and P  =  .99 for 5 Fr). The DVT rate was 5.08% for ICU patients and 4.58% for non-ICU patients (P  =  .65). The economic model demonstrated an annual, incremental cost savings of US$114 053 for every 5% absolute reduction in 6 Fr PICCs use. Using the smallest PICC that meets the patients' clinical needs may help to mitigate risks and confer savings.