Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus sutureless aortic valve replacement: a single-centre cost analysis

AIMS

Sutureless aortic valve replacement (SU-AVR) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are both viable therapeutic interventions for aortic stenosis in elderly patients. Meta-analyses show similar all-cause mortality for both techniques albeit with a different pattern of adverse effects. This study means to compare costs and, to a lesser extent, clinical outcomes of both techniques.

METHODS

A retrospective single-centre analysis was performed for patients receiving SU-AVR or TAVI from 2008 to 2019. Perioperative clinical data were collected from patient files. Costs were assessed by a cost allocation tool. In an attempt to avoid confounding, propensity score matching was carried out.

RESULTS

A total of 368 patients underwent either TAVI (n = 100) or SU-AVR (n = 268). After matching, there were 61 patients per treatment group. Length of stay was significantly longer in the SU-AVR group. Excluding device costs, total expenses for SU-AVR (median: €11,630) were significantly higher than TAVI (median: €9240). For both groups, these costs were mostly incurred on intensive care units, followed by nursing units. Non-medical staff was the largest contributor to expenses. Including device costs, SU-AVR (median: €14,683) was shown to be cost-saving compared to TAVI (median: €24,057).

CONCLUSIONS

To conclude, we found SU-AVR to be cost-saving compared to TAVI, largely due to higher device costs associated with the latter. Excluding device costs, TAVI was associated with lower expenses and shorter length of stay. Non-medical staff was the largest source of costs, suggesting length of stay to be a major financial determinant.

Surgical Treatment of Active Endocarditis Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Onset

BACKGROUND

Despite advanced diagnosis and treatment, infective endocarditis (IE) is a potentially life-threatening condition. The impact of COVID-19 on the diagnosis and outcome of the surgical treatment of IE is uncertain. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of surgically treated IE before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed the data of 535 patients who underwent valve surgical procedures for IE between January 2010 and December 2022 in a single cardiac surgery center. Patients were divided into two groups depending on the date of their operation: before (n = 393) and after (n = 142) COVID-19 onset. In order to balance the groups, inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) calculated from the propensity score (PS) was applied. Weighted univariate logistic regressions were reported for outcomes; weights were derived from IPTW. Interrupted time series analysis (ITSA) according to Linden's method was used to evaluate the changes in the manifestation of IE after 11 March 2020.

RESULTS

Patients from the post-COVID-19 cohort (after 11 March 2020) had a greater number of comorbidities such as diabetes (29.6% vs. 16.3% p = 0.001), hypertension (71.1% vs. 59.5% p = 0.015), and preoperative kidney injury requiring dialysis (9.2% vs. 2.5% p = 0.002), but the median additive and logistic EuroSCORE were not statistically different. In the post-COVID-19 group, we observed a greater prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus-related endocarditis (24.5% vs. 15.4% p = 0.026), a consequent reduction in Staphylococcus non aureus-related endocarditis (12.2% vs. 20.1% p = 0.048), and a decrease in aortic valve replacements (43.0% vs. 53.9%), while the number of mitral valve replacements and repair was greater (21.1% vs. 15.0% and 6.3% vs. 4.3%, respectively). No differences were found in the two groups concerning early death, death, or relapse at 1 year after surgery. Data obtained by multivariable analysis identified preoperative renal dysfunction requiring dialysis as the only common risk factor for early mortality via stratifying by time periods in analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of surgically treated IE significantly increases after the COVID-19 pandemic with a higher incidence of mitral valve involvement with respect to the aortic valve. Although a delay in surgical timing occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, data in terms of mortality and outcomes were largely unaffected.

Preoperative continuation of aspirin before isolated heart valve surgery and postoperative bleeding and transfusion: a single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The risks and benefits of preoperative aspirin continuation in patients undergoing isolated heart valve replacement surgery are unclear. We investigated the effect of aspirin continuation on the risk of bleeding and transfusion in these patients.

METHODS

In this single center, retrospective study, among 474 adult patients who underwent isolated heart valve surgery between April 2013 and June 2018, 269 continued aspirin within 5 days before surgery (aspirin group) and 205 patients did not take or stopped aspirin no later than 5 days before surgery (non-aspirin group). The chi-square test, the Mann-Whitney U-test, and the Student's T-test were used to compare data between the groups. Univariate and Multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess crude and adjusted relationships between outcome and exposure.

RESULTS

The primary outcome, red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, occurred in 59 patients (22%) of the aspirin group and in 24 patients (12%) of the non-aspirin group (p = 0.004). After adjustment for confounding factors, continuation of aspirin was no longer associated with RBC transfusion (aOR1.8;95%CI,0.98-3.2;p = 0.06). The amount of allogenic blood products, the incidence of surgical re-exploration for bleeding, the volume of re-transfused cell-saved blood, and the cumulative chest tube drainage during the first 24 postoperative hours were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative continuation of aspirin in patients undergoing isolated heart valve surgery is neither associated with a higher incidence of RBC transfusion, nor with larger perioperative blood loss, or more frequent surgical revision for bleeding.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05151796).

A novel interpretative tool for early prediction of low cardiac output syndrome after valve surgery: online machine learning models

OBJECTIVE

Low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) is a severe complication after valve surgery, with no uniform standard for early identification. We developed interpretative machine learning (ML) models for predicting LCOS risk preoperatively and 0.5 h postoperatively for intervention in advance.

METHODS

A total of 2218 patients undergoing valve surgery from June 2019 to Dec 2021 were finally enrolled to construct preoperative and postoperative models. Logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM), random forest classifier, extreme gradient boosting, and deep neural network were executed for model construction, and the performance of models was evaluated by area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic and calibration curves. Our models were interpreted through SHapley Additive exPlanations, and presented as an online tool to improve clinical operability.

RESULTS

The SVM algorithm was chosen for modeling due to better AUC and calibration capability. The AUCs of the preoperative and postoperative models were 0.786 (95% CI 0.729-0.843) and 0.863 (95% CI 0.824-0.902), and the Brier scores were 0.123 and 0.107. Our models have higher timeliness and interpretability, and wider coverage than the vasoactive-inotropic score, and the AUC of the postoperative model was significantly higher. Our preoperative and postoperative models are available online at http://njfh-yxb.com.cn:2022/lcos.

CONCLUSIONS

The first interpretable ML tool with two prediction periods for online early prediction of LCOS risk after valve surgery was successfully built in this study, in which the SVM model has the best performance, reserving enough time for early precise intervention in critical care.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Infective Endocarditis Management and Outcomes: Analysis of a National Clinical Database

COVID-19 has widely affected health care delivery, but its impact on the management of infective endocarditis (IE), including valve surgery, is uncertain. We compared the national trends in admissions, demographics, and outcomes of IE before and after COVID-19 onset, using a national sample of IE admissions between 2016 and 2022 from the Vizient Clinical Database. The pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 time periods were separated by the start of the second quarter of 2020, the time during which the COVID-19 pandemic was declared. For all admissions and for admissions involving valve surgery, pre-COVID-19 versus post-COVID-19 baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared using 2-sample t tests or chi-square tests. Propensity score-matched cohorts were similarly compared. Before COVID-19, there were 82,867 overall and 11,337 valve-related surgical admissions, and after COVID-19, there were 45,672 overall and 6,322 valve-related surgical admissions. In the matched analysis for all admissions, the in-hospital mortality increased from 11.4% to 12.4% after COVID-19 onset (p <0.001); in-hospital stroke (4.9% vs 6.0%, p <0.001), myocardial infarction (1.3% vs 1.4%, p = 0.03), and aspiration pneumonia (1.8% vs 2.4%, p <0.001) also increased, whereas other complications remained stable. In the matched analysis of surgical admissions, there was decreased in-hospital mortality (7.7% vs 6.7%, p = 0.03) and intensive care unit stay (8.5 ± 12.5 vs 8.0 ± 12.6 days, p = 0.04); other outcomes remained stable. In conclusion, patients admitted with IE after COVID-19 were more medically complex with worsened outcomes and mortality, whereas patients who underwent valve surgery had stable outcomes and improved mortality despite the pandemic.

Single or Combined Valve Surgery and Concomitant Right Coronary Artery Bypass through Right Anterior Minithoracotomy Approach

BACKGROUND

Patients with combined valve and coronary artery disease are commonly performed by standard median sternotomy approach for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and valve surgery. The purpose of this study is to describe our experience and show feasibility and safety of minimally invasive approach to single or combined valve pathology with single-vessel right coronary artery (RCA) disease, even if it is suitable to percutaneous coronary intervention.

METHODS

This retrospective study comprised 28 consecutive patients who underwent single or combined valve surgery concomitant right CABG through right anterior minithoracotomy between February 2018 and December 2020. Preoperative evaluation, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 12 men and 16 women. The mean age was 71.46 ± 6.82 years. Ten patients were in New York Heart Association class III or IV. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamping times were 117.6 ± 21.3 and 98.1 ± 22.6 minutes, respectively. The mean time to extubation was 9.7 ± 5.6 hours, the mean intensive care unit stay was 37.4 ± 14.6 hours, and the mean hospital stay was 6.9 ± 3.2 days. There was one patient who underwent reoperation for bleeding. There were no instances of postoperative stroke, myocardial infarction, renal failure, or wound infection. The mean follow-up was 19 ± 2.4 months.

CONCLUSION

Presence of RCA lesion is not a contraindication for minimally invasive approach in cases who underwent single or combined valve surgery. Combined valve surgery and right CABG via right anterior minithoracotomy are a safe and feasible option to standard median sternotomy surgery, even if RCA lesions seem suitable for stenting.

Acupuncture after valve surgery is feasible and shows promise in reducing postoperative atrial fibrillation: The ACU-Heart pilot trial

Objective

Acupuncture is an effective treatment for arrythmias and postoperative symptoms but has not been investigated after cardiac surgery. Acupuncture After Heart Surgery is a prospective, randomized, controlled pilot trial of daily inpatient acupuncture or standard care after valve surgery with the primary end point being feasibility and secondary end points being reduction in postoperative atrial fibrillation incidence and postoperative symptoms.

Methods

A total of 100 patients without a history of atrial fibrillation underwent primary valve surgery via sternotomy and randomized 1:1 to acupuncture (51) or standard care (49). The acupuncture group received daily inpatient sessions starting on postoperative day 1. Postoperative symptoms (pain, nausea, stress, anxiety) were assessed once daily in the standard care group and before/after daily intervention in the acupuncture group. The groups were comparable except for age (acupuncture: 55.6 ± 11.4 years, standard care: 61.0 ± 9.3 years; P = .01).

Results

The Acupuncture After Heart Surgery pilot trial met primary and secondary end points. There were no adverse events. An average of 3.8 (±1.1) acupuncture sessions were delivered per patient during a mean hospital stay of 4.6 days (±1.3). Acupuncture was associated with a reduction in pain, nausea, stress, and anxiety after each session (P < .0001), and patients receiving acupuncture had reduced postoperative stress and anxiety across admission compared with standard care (P = .049 and P = .036, respectively). Acupuncture was associated with reduced postoperative atrial fibrillation incidence (acupuncture: 7 [13.7%], standard care: 16 [32.7%]; P = .028), fewer discharges on amiodarone (acupuncture: 5 [9.8%], standard care: 13 [26.5%]; P = .03), and fewer hours in the intensive care unit (acupuncture: 30.3 ± 10.0, standard care: 37.0 ± 22.5; P = .057).

Conclusions

Acupuncture after valve surgery is feasible, is well tolerated, and has clinical benefit. The reduction noted in postoperative atrial fibrillation incidence will inform larger trials designed to further investigate the impact of acupuncture on postoperative atrial fibrillation and medical outcomes.

Risk Factors of Postoperative Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Background and Objectives. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is one of the complications that may occur in the postoperative period in patients undergoing heart valve surgery, which may result in prolonged hospitalization, development of respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation or even death. This study investigated the preoperative risk factors of postoperative pneumonia after heart valve surgery. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study in a group of consecutive patients with hemodynamically significant valvular heart disease undergoing valve surgery. The primary endpoint at the in-hospital follow-up was hospital-acquired pneumonia after heart valve surgery. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess which variables were predictive of the primary endpoint, and odds ratios (ORdis) were calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Multivariate analysis was based on the results of single-factor logistic regression, i.e., in further steps all statistically significant variables were taken into consideration. Results: The present study included 505 patients. Postoperative pneumonia occurred in 23 patients. The mean time to diagnosis of pneumonia was approximately 3 days after heart valve surgery (±2 days). In multivariate analysis, preoperative level of high-sensitivity Troponin T (hs-TnT) (OR 2.086; 95% CI 1.211-3.593; p = 0.008) and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) (OR 1.043; 95% CI 1.018-1.067; p 0.004) remained independent predictors of the postoperative pneumonia. Of the patients with postoperative pneumonia, 3 patients died due to the development of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Conclusions: Preoperative determination of serum hs-TnT concentration and echocardiographic measurement of the RVSP parameter may be useful in predicting postoperative pneumonia in patients undergoing heart valve surgery.

Heart surgery and simultaneous carotid endarterectomy - 10-years single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Patients with coronary artery heart disease frequently suffer concomitant carotid vascular disease and are at high perioperative risk for neurological adverse events. Several concepts regarding the timing and modality of carotid revascularization are controversially discussed in patients with heart disease. Current guidelines recommendations on myocardial revascularization recommend a concomitant carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in patients with a history of stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) or 50-99% grade of the carotid stenosis. Our study aimed to analyze early outcome parameters of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), but also including concomitant heart valve surgery and simultaneous CEA.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 111 patients from our institutional database undergoing heart surgery with CABG or heart-valve surgery between 2010 and 2020 with concomitant carotid surgery due to significant carotid stenosis.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing heart and simultaneous carotid surgery were 77 ± 8.0 years of age with a body mass index of 28 ± 1.7 kg/m2 and a mean EuroSCORE II of 6.5 ± 2.3. Most patients (61%) had a smoking history and arterial hypertension (97%). The preoperative mean grade of internal carotid stenosis was 87 ± 4.2%, 13% of patients suffered from internal carotid artery stenosis on both sites. In total, 4.5% of patients had previously undergone internal carotid artery intervention before and 6.3% had a history of stroke with a persistent neurologic disorder in 1.8%, 8.9% of cases had prior TIA. Thirty-day all-cause mortality was 6.3% and postoperative neurologic events occurred with 7.2% TIA and 4.5% of disabling stroke.

CONCLUSION

Within the reported patient population of coronary artery heart disease and significant internal carotid stenosis, a one-time approach with CABG or heart-valve surgery and CEA is safe and feasible as justified by clinical and neurological postoperative outcomes.

The rare case of double valve surgery in a patient with factor VII deficiency

Performing cardiac surgery on patients with bleeding diatheses poses significant challenges since these patients are at an increased risk for complications secondary to excessive bleeding. Despite its rarity, patients with factor VII (FVII) deficiency may require invasive procedures such as cardiac surgery. However, we lack guidelines on their pre-, peri-, and post-operative management. As FVII deficiency is rare, it seems unlikely to design and learn from large clinical studies. Instead, we need to base our clinical decision-making on single reported cases and registry data. Herein, we present the rare case of a patient with FVII deficiency who underwent double valve surgery. Pre-operatively, activated recombinant FVII (rFVIIa) was administered to reduce the risk of bleeding. Nevertheless, the patient experienced major bleeding. This case highlights the significance of FVII deficiency in patients undergoing cardiac surgery and emphasizes the importance of adequate and appropriate transfusion of blood products for these patients.

Concomitant ablation of atrial fibrillation: New pacemakers and early rhythm recovery

OBJECTIVE

New permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation after concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation has been associated with surgical ablation (SA). We sought to determine factors for PPM use as well as early rhythm recovery.

METHODS

From 2004 through 2019, 6135 patients underwent valve surgery and were grouped: No AF (n = 4584), AF no SA (n = 346), and AF with SA (n = 1205) to evaluate predischarge PPM and 3-month rhythm recovery (intrinsic heart rate >40 beats per minute).

RESULTS

Overall, 282 (4.6%) patients required a predischarge PPM: atrioventricular node dysfunction in 75.3%, sick sinus syndrome in 19.1%, both (5%), and indeterminate (0.7%). Patients with AF had more PPMs: AF with SA (7.9%) versus AF no SA (6.9%) versus No AF (3.6%) (P < .001). For patients with AF, PPM rates were not significantly higher for ablation patients (7.6% SA vs 6.9% AF no SA; P = .56). There were differences in PPM by SA lesion set (biatrial 12.8%; left atrial only 6.1%; pulmonary vein isolation 3.0%; P < .001). Among patients with AF treated with 3-month PPM follow-up, rhythm recovery was common (35 out of 62 [56.5%]) and did not differ by lesion set. Rhythm recovery was seen in 63 out of 141 (44.7%) in the atrioventricular node dysfunction group versus 24 out of 35 (68.6%) in the sick sinus syndrome group (P = .011). In propensity score-matched groups, late survival was similar (P = .63) for new PPM patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Avoiding conduction system trauma and delaying implantation reduces the need for postoperative PPM. Rhythm recovery within 3 months is frequent, especially for patients with sick sinus syndrome. A conservative approach to the implantation of a new PPMs is warranted.

Valve Surgery in a Low-Volume Center in a Low- and Middle-Income Country: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Valvular heart disease (VHD) has a significant prevalence and mortality rate with surgical intervention continuing to be a cornerstone of therapy. We aim to report the outcome of patients undergoing heart valve surgery (HVS) in a low-volume center (LVC) in a low- and middle-income country (LMIC).

Methods

A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at the Jordan University Hospital (JUH), a tertiary teaching hospital in a developing country, between April 2014 and December 2019. Patients who underwent mitral valve replacement (MVR), aortic valve replacement (AVR), tricuspid valve replacement (TVR), double valve replacement (DVR), CABG + MVR, and CABG + AVR patients were included. Thirty-day and two-year mortalities were taken as the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively.

Results

A total number of 122 patients were included, and the mean age was 54.46 ± 14.89 years. AVR was most common (42.6%). There was no significant association between STS mortality score or Euroscore II with 30-day and 2-year mortality.

Conclusion

LVC will continue to have a role in LMICs, especially during development to HICs. Further global studies are needed to assert the safety of HVS in LVC and LMICs.

Preoperative slow-wave sleep is associated with postoperative delirium after heart valve surgery: A prospective pilot study

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a very common neurological complication after valve surgery. Some studies have shown that preoperative sleep disorder is associated with POD, but the correlation between preoperative slow wave sleep (SWS) and POD remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to identify the correlation between preoperative slow wave sleep and postoperative delirium in patients with heart valve disease. This was a prospective, observational study of elective valve surgery patients admitted to the Heart Medical Center between November 2021 and July 2022. Polysomnography (PSG) was used to monitor sleep architecture from 9:30 p.m. for 1 night before surgery to 6:30 a.m. on the day of surgery. Patients were assessed for postoperative delirium from postoperative day 1 to extubation or day 5 by using the Richmond Agitation/Sedation Scale (RASS) and the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). A total of 60 elective valve surgery patients were enrolled in this study. Prolonged N1 (11.44%) and N2 (58.62%) sleep, decreased N3 sleep (8.75%) and REM sleep (18.24%) within normal limits were the overall sleep architecture. Compared with patients without POD, patients with POD had less slow wave sleep 1 night before surgery (5.77% vs 10.88%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, slow wave sleep (OR: 0.647, 95% CI 0.493-0.851, p = 0.002) was found to be a protective factor for postoperative delirium. The preoperative SWS is a predictive factor of the POD in patients undergoing valve surgery. But further studies with larger sample sizes are still needed to elucidate the relationship between preoperative slow wave sleep and postoperative delirium.

Impact of Chronic Kidney Disease and Dialysis on Outcome after Surgery for Infective Endocarditis

Infective endocarditis (IE) carries a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hemodialysis (HD) patients. We investigated the risk factors, pathognomonic profile and outcomes of surgically treated IE in CKD and HD patients. We preoperatively identified patients with CKD under hemodialysis (HD group) and compared them with patients without hemodialysis (Non-HD group). Furthermore, we divided the cohort into four groups according to the underlying stage of CKD, with a subsequent outcome analysis. Between 2009 and 2018, 534 Non-HD and 58 HD patients underwent surgery for IE at our institution. The median age was 65.1 [50.6-73.6] and 63.2 [53.4-72.8] years in the Non-HD and HD groups, respectively (p = 0.861). The median EuroSCORE II was 8.0 [5.0-10.0] vs. 9.5 [7.0-12.0] in the Non-HD vs. HD groups (p = 0.004). Patients without CKD had a mortality rate of 5.6% at 30 days and 15.5% at 1 year. Mortality rates proportionally rose with the severity of CKD. Among HD patients, 30-day and 1-year mortality rates were 38.1% and 75.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). Staphylococcus aureus IE was significantly more frequent in the HD group (p = 0.006). In conclusion, outcomes after surgery for IE correlated with the severity of the underlying CKD, with HD patients exhibiting the most unfavorable results. Pre-existing CKD and staphylococcus aureus infection were independent risk factors for 1-year mortality.

Early versus Delayed Surgery in Patients with Left-Sided Infective Endocarditis and Stroke

BACKGROUND

Timing of surgery remains controversial in patients with infective endocarditis and stroke. Guidelines on infective endocarditis suggest delaying surgery for up to 4 weeks. However, with early heart failure due to progression of the infection or recurrent septic embolism, urgent surgery becomes imperative.

METHODS

Out of 688 patients who were surgically treated for left-sided infective endocarditis, 187 presented with preoperative neurological events. The date of cerebral stroke onset was documented in 147 patients. The patients were stratified according to timing of surgery: 61 in the early group (0-7 days) vs. 86 in the delayed group (>7 days). Postoperative neurological outcome was assessed by the modified Rankin Scale.

RESULTS

Preoperative sepsis was more prevalent in patients with preoperative neurological complications (46.0% vs. 29.5%, p < 0.001). Patients with haemorrhagic stroke were operated on later (19.8% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.003). Postoperative cerebrovascular accidents were comparable between both groups (p = 0.13). Overall, we observed good neurological outcomes (p = 0.80) and a high recovery rate, with only 5% of cases showing neurological deterioration after surgery (p = 0.29). In-hospital mortality and long-term survival were not significantly different in the early and delayed surgery groups (log-rank, p = 0.22).

CONCLUSIONS

Early valve surgery in high-risk patients with infective endocarditis and stroke can be performed safely and is not associated with worse outcomes.

Concomitant valve surgery is associated with worse outcomes in surgical treatments of post-infarction ventricular aneurysm

Objective

To evaluate the impact of concomitant valve surgery on the prognosis of patients who experienced coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) with/without ventricular reconstruction for the ventricular aneurysm.

Methods

In our department, 354 patients underwent CABG with/without ventricular reconstruction for a ventricular aneurysm from July 23rd, 2000 to December 23rd, 2022. A total of 77 patients received concomitant valve surgery, 37 of whom underwent replacement, and 40 of whom underwent repair. The baseline characteristics, prognostic, and follow-up information were statically analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to identify the risk factors of long-term outcomes.

Results

Compared with patients who did not undergo valvular surgery, patients who experienced concomitant valve surgical treatments had a significantly lower survival rate (p = 0.00022) and a longer total mechanical ventilation time. Subgroup analysis indicated that the options of repair or replacement exhibited no statistically significant difference in postoperative mortality (p = 0.44) and prognosis. The multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that the pre-operative cholesterol level (HR = 1.68), postoperative IABP (HR = 6.29), NYHA level (HR = 2.84), and pre-operative triglyceride level (HR = 1.09) were independent and significant predictors for overall all-cause mortality after surgery.

Conclusion

Concomitant valve surgery was considerably related to a higher risk of postoperative mortality in patients with post-infarction ventricle aneurysms who underwent surgical treatments. No significant difference in the prognosis outcomes was observed between the operating methods of repair or replacement valve surgery.

Role of Cerebral Imaging on Diagnosis and Management in Patients With Suspected Infective Endocarditis

BACKGROUND

Cerebral embolic events (CEEs) are common complications of infective endocarditis (IE), and their presence can modify diagnosis and therapeutic plans. The aim of the present study was to assess the role of cerebral imaging (Cer-Im) on diagnosis and management of patients with suspected IE.

METHODS

This study was conducted at the Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland, from January 2014 to June 2022. CEEs and IE were defined according to modified Duke criteria of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines.

RESULTS

Among 573 patients with IE suspicion and Cer-Im, 239 (42%) patients had neurological symptoms. At least 1 CEE was found in 254 (44%) episodes. Based on Cer-Im findings, episodes were reclassified from rejected to possible or from possible to definite IE in 3 (1%) and 25 (4%) patients, respectively (0% and 2% in asymptomatic patients, respectively). Among the 330 patients with possible or definite IE, at least 1 CEE was found in 187 (57%) episodes. A new surgical indication (in association with left-side vegetation >10 mm) was established in 74/330 (22%) IE patients and 30/155 (19%) asymptomatic IE patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Cer-Im in asymptomatic patients with IE suspicion showed limited potential for improving the diagnosis of IE. In contrast, performing Cer-Im in asymptomatic patients with IE may be useful for decision making, because Cer-Im findings led to the establishment of new operative indication for valvular surgery in one fifth of patients according to ESC guidelines.

Major Adverse Cardiac and Cerebrovascular Events in Patients Undergoing Simultaneous Heart Surgery and Carotid Endarterectomy

BACKGROUND

Patients with simultaneous relevant internal carotid artery stenosis and coronary artery heart or valve disease represent a high-risk collective with respect to cerebral or cardiovascular severe events when undergoing surgery. There exist several concepts regarding the timing and modality of carotid revascularization, which are controversially discussed in patients with heart disease. More data regarding outcome predictors and measures are needed to gain a better understanding of the best treatment option of the discussed patient collective.

METHODS

This single-center study retrospectively analyzed n = 111 patients undergoing heart surgery with coronary artery bypass grafting or heart-valve surgery and concomitant carotid surgery due to significant internal carotid artery stenosis. In order to do so, patients were divided into two groups with respect to postoperative major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) with thirty-day all-cause mortality, valve related mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke and transitory ischemic attack.

RESULTS

Preoperative patient's characteristic in the no-MACCE and MACCE group were mainly balanced, other than higher rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, instable angina pectoris and prior transitory ischemic attack in the MACCE cohort. The analysis of intraoperative characteristics revealed a higher number of intra-aortic balloon pump implantation, which is in line for a higher number of postoperative supports. Besides MACCE, patients suffered significantly more often from postoperative bleeding events and re-thoracotomy, cardiopulmonary reanimation, new onset postoperative dialysis and prolonged intensive care unit stay related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the reported patient population suffering from MACCE after a simultaneous carotid endarterectomy and heart surgery, a preoperative history of transitory ischemic attack and kidney disease might account for worse outcomes, as severe events were not only neurologically driven but also associated with postoperative cardiovascular complications following heart surgical procedures.

Risk prediction in patients with classical low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis undergoing surgical intervention

Introduction

Classical low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis (LFLG-AS) is an advanced stage of aortic stenosis, which has a poor prognosis with medical treatment and a high operative mortality after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). There is currently a paucity of information regarding the current prognosis of classical LFLG-AS patients undergoing SAVR and the lack of a reliable risk assessment tool for this particular subset of AS patients. The present study aims to assess mortality predictors in a population of classical LFLG-AS patients undergoing SAVR.

Methods

This is a prospective study including 41 consecutive classical LFLG-AS patients (aortic valve area ≤1.0 cm², mean transaortic gradient <40 mmHg, left ventricular ejection fraction <50%). All patients underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE), 3D echocardiography, and T1 mapping cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Patients with pseudo-severe aortic stenosis were excluded. Patients were divided into groups according to the median value of the mean transaortic gradient (≤25 and >25 mmHg). All-cause, intraprocedural, 30-day, and 1-year mortality rates were evaluated.

Results

All of the patients had degenerative aortic stenosis, with a median age of 66 (60-73) years; most of the patients were men (83%). The median EuroSCORE II was 2.19% (1.5%-4.78%), and the median STS was 2.19% (1.6%-3.99%). On DSE, 73.2% had flow reserve (FR), i.e., an increase in stroke volume ≥20% during DSE, with no significant differences between groups. On CMR, late gadolinium enhancement mass was lower in the group with mean transaortic gradient >25 mmHg [2.0 (0.0-8.9) g vs. 8.5 (2.3-15.0) g; p = 0.034), and myocardium extracellular volume (ECV) and indexed ECV were similar between groups. The 30-day and 1-year mortality rates were 14.6% and 43.8%, respectively. The median follow-up was 4.1 (0.3-5.1) years. By multivariate analysis adjusted for FR, only the mean transaortic gradient was an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio: 0.923, 95% confidence interval: 0.864-0.986, p = 0.019). A mean transaortic gradient ≤25 mmHg was associated with higher all-cause mortality rates (log-rank p = 0.038), while there was no difference in mortality regarding FR status (log-rank p = 0.114).

Conclusions

In patients with classical LFLG-AS undergoing SAVR, the mean transaortic gradient was the only independent mortality predictor in patients with LFLG-AS, especially if ≤25 mmHg. The absence of left ventricular FR had no prognostic impact on long-term outcomes.

Direct oral anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation in early postoperative valve repair or bioprosthetic replacement

OBJECTIVE

Despite increased use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), limited evidence guides their use in the early postoperative period after bioprosthetic valve implantation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Our objective was to describe the efficacy and safety of DOACs and warfarin in the first 3 months after surgical bioprosthetic valve replacement or repair in patients with atrial fibrillation.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, registry-informed cohort study of surgical patients who underwent bioprosthetic valve replacement or repair, had concomitant atrial fibrillation and received oral anticoagulation at discharge. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of death, ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack, and systemic embolism; the primary safety outcome was a composite of major bleeding. Key secondary outcomes were comparative analyses of primary outcomes, temporal anticoagulation prescribing patterns, and 30-day readmission rates.

RESULTS

A total of 1743 patients were included. Of the 570 patients in the DOAC group, 17 (2%) met the composite efficacy outcome and 55 (10%) met the composite safety outcome. Of the 1173 patients receiving warfarin, 41 (3%) and 114 (10%) met the composite efficacy and safety outcomes, respectively. Comparative secondary analysis was not statistically significant for either the efficacy (adjusted odds ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.46-1.55, P = .59) or safety (adjusted odds ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.66-1.34, P = .76) outcomes. The 30-day readmission rates were similar between both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest DOACs may be safe and effective alternatives to warfarin in the early postoperative period after valve repair or surgical bioprosthetic replacement. Confirmation awaits adequately powered prospective studies.

Does Age Influence the Preoperative Condition and, Thus, the Outcome in Endocarditis Patients?

Background: Demographic changes have led to an increase in the proportion of older patients undergoing heart surgery. The number of endocarditis cases is also steadily increasing. Given the sharp increase in patients who have received valve prostheses or electrophysiological implants, who are on chronic dialysis or taking immunosuppressants, the interdependence of these two developments is quite obvious. We have studied the situation of older patients suffering from endocarditis compared to younger ones. Are they more susceptible, and are there differences in outcomes? Patients and Methods: A total of 162 patients was studied from our database, enrolled from 2020 to 2022. Fifty-four of them were older than 75 years of age (mean age 79.9 ± 3.8 years). The remaining 108 patients had a mean age of 61.6 ± 10.1 years. EuroSCORE II (ES II) was higher in the older patients (19.3 ± 19.7) than in the younger ones (13.2 ± 16.84). The BMI was almost identical. The preoperative NYHA proportions did not differ. A statistical analysis was performed using R. Results: Older patients had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), a higher proportion of coronary heart disease (CHD), a higher amount of N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptides (NT-proBNPs), worse coagulation function, worse renal function than younger patients, and were more often valve prosthesis carriers compared to the younger patients. The diagnostic interval was 66.85 ± 49.53 days in the younger cohort, whereas it was only 50.98 ± 30.55 in the elderly (p = 0.081). Significantly fewer septic emboli were observed in the older patients than in the younger patients, but postoperative delirium and critical illness polyneuropathy and critical illness myopathy (CIP/CIM) were observed significantly more frequently compared to younger patients. In-hospital mortality was higher in older patients than in younger patients, but did not reach statistical significance (29.91% vs. 40.38%; p = 0.256). The postoperative clinical status was worse in older patients than in the younger ones (NYHA-stage, p = 0.022). Conclusions: Age did have an impact on the outcome, probably due to causing a higher number of cumulative preoperative risk factors. However, an interesting phenomenon was that older patients had fewer septic emboli than younger patients. It can only be speculated whether this was due to a shorter diagnostic interval or lower mobility, i.e., physical exertion. Older patients suffered more frequently than younger ones from typical age-related postoperative complications, such as delirium and CIP/CIM. In-hospital mortality was high, but not significantly higher compared to the younger patients. Considering the acceptable mortality risks, and in light of the lack of alternatives, older patients should not be denied surgery. However, individual consideration is necessary.

Whats new in ESC Guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease?

The article summarize the most important changes regarding the management of valvular heart disease, which have been made in the ESC Guidelines 2021. Based on the randomized clinical study data, which were recently published, the most frequent changes were done in terms of the choice of mode of intervention in the aortic and mitral valves as well as in the management of the antithrombotic therapy.

Efficacy and safety of edoxaban in patients early after surgical bioprosthetic valve implantation or valve repair: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

Early warfarin anticoagulation is recommended in patients undergoing surgical bioprosthetic valve implantation or valve repair. It is unclear whether non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants can be a full alternative to warfarin. This study aimed to compare efficacy and safety of edoxaban with warfarin in patients early after surgical bioprosthetic valve implantation or valve repair.

METHODS

The Explore the Efficacy and Safety of Edoxaban in Patients after Heart Valve Repair or Bioprosthetic Valve Replacement study was a prospective, randomized (1:1), open-label, clinical trial conducted from December 2017 to September 2019. Patients were randomly assigned to receive edoxaban (60 mg or 30 mg once daily) or warfarin for the first 3 months after surgical bioprosthetic valve implantation or valve repair. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of death, clinical thromboembolic events, or asymptomatic intracardiac thrombosis. The primary safety outcome was the occurrence of major bleeding.

RESULTS

Of 220 participants, 218 (109 per group) were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis. The primary efficacy outcome occurred in 4 patients (3.7%) taking warfarin and none taking edoxaban (risk difference, -0.0367; 95% confidence interval, -0.0720 to -0.0014; P < .001 for noninferiority). The primary safety outcome occurred in 1 patient (0.9%) taking warfarin and 3 patients (2.8%) taking edoxaban (risk difference, 0.0183; 95% confidence interval, -0.0172 to 0.0539; P = .013 for noninferiority).

CONCLUSIONS

Edoxaban is noninferior to warfarin for preventing thromboembolism and is potentially comparable for risk of major bleeding during the first 3 months after surgical bioprosthetic valve implantation or valve repair.

Comparison of trends and outcomes of infective endocarditis in patients with versus without leukemia, 2002 to 2017, from a nationwide inpatient sample

Patients with leukemia are at an increased risk for infective endocarditis secondary to their immunocompromised state, chemotherapy, and specific risk factors such as the presence of indwelling central venous catheters. There is a paucity of data regarding temporal trends and clinical outcomes of infective endocarditis in leukemia patients. Previous studies have shown a high rate of complications related to surgical valve procedures for treatment of infective endocarditis in patients with hematological malignancies. In this study, we aimed to analyze the contemporary trends and clinical outcomes of treatment in infective endocarditis patients with and without leukemia based on data available from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, which is a publicly accessible, large sample-sized national dataset of hospitalized patients across the US. We present key findings on baseline characteristics, microbiological profile, outcomes, rates of valve surgical procedures, and mortality in infective endocarditis patients with and without leukemia between 2002 and 2017 in the US.

The Role of the N-Terminal of the Prohormone Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Predicting Postoperative Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) is the progressive and potentially reversible dysfunction of at least two organ systems in the course of an acute and life-threatening disorder of systemic homeostasis. MODS is a serious post-cardiac-surgery complication in valvular heart disease that is associated with a high risk of death. This study assessed the predictive ability of selected preoperative and perioperative parameters for the occurrence of MODS in the early postoperative period in a group of patients with severe valvular heart disease.

METHODS

Subsequent patients with significant symptomatic valvular heart disease who underwent cardiac surgery were recruited in the study. The main end-point was postoperative MODS, defined as a dysfunction of at least two organs-perioperative stroke, heart failure requiring mechanical circulatory support, respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation, and postoperative acute kidney injury requiring renal replacement therapy. A logistic regression was used to assess relationships between variables.

RESULTS

There were 602 patients recruited for this study. The main end-point occurred in 40 patients. Preoperative NT-proBNP (OR 1.026; 95% CI 1.012-1.041; p = 0.001) and hemoglobin (OR 0.653; 95% CI 0.503-0.847; p = 0.003) are independent predictors of the primary end-point in a multivariate regression analysis. The cut-off point for the NT-proBNP value for postoperative MODS was calculated at 1300 pg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

A high preoperative level of NTpro-BNP may be associated with the onset of MODS in the early postoperative period. The results of the study may also suggest that earlier cardiac surgery for significant valvular heart disease may be associated with an improved prognosis in this group of patients.

Sex Disparities in Failure to Rescue After Cardiac Surgery in California and New York

BACKGROUND

Women have a higher risk of mortality than men after cardiac surgery independent of other risk factors. The reason for this may not be limited to patient-specific variables. Failure to rescue (FTR) patients from death after a postoperative complication is a nationally endorsed quality care metric. We aimed to identify whether sex disparities exist in the quality of care after cardiac surgery using FTR rates.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 30 973 men (70.4%) and 13 033 women (29.6%) aged over 18 years undergoing coronary artery bypass graft or valve surgery in New York (2016-2019) and California (2016-2018) who experienced at least one serious postoperative complication. The primary outcome was the FTR. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of death after complication. Propensity matching was used to adjust for baseline differences between sexes and yielded 12 657 pairs.

RESULTS

Female patients that experienced complications were older (mean age 67.8 versus 66.7, P<0.001), more frail (median frailty score 0.1 versus 0.07, P<0.001), and had more comorbidities (median Charlson score 2.5 versus 2.3, P<0.001) than male patients. The overall FTR rate was 5.7% (2524), men were less likely to die after a complication than women (4.8% versus 8%, P<0.001). Independent predictors of FTR included female sex (relative risk [RR]: 1.46 [CI, 1.30-1.62]), area-level poverty rate >20% (RR, 1.21 [CI, 1.01-1.59]), higher frailty (RR, 2.83 [CI, 1.35-5.93]), undergoing concomitant coronary artery bypass graft and valve surgeries (RR, 1.69 [CI, 1.49-1.9]), and higher number of postoperative complications (RR, 16.28 [CI, 14-18.89]). In the propensity-matched cohorts, the FTR rate remained significantly lower among men than women (6.0% versus 8.0%, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women are less likely to be rescued from death following postoperative complications, independent of socioeconomic and clinical characteristics. Further research is warranted to investigate the clinical practices contributing to this disparity in quality of care following cardiac surgery.

Angioplasty balloon occlusion of LIMA graft in reoperations of patients with prosthetic valve endocarditis and patent LIMA-LAD graft

Introduction

Myocardial protection in reoperative cardiac surgery is extremely difficult in patients with previous coronary surgery and a working LAD-LIMA graft. We use the method of percutaneous angiographic balloon left internal mammary artery (LIMA) occlusion and cardioplegic arrest.

Aim

To compare the data of patients with angiographic balloon LIMA-occlusion and those without occlusion in operations related to prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE), and determine the degree of safety and benefits of the method.

Material and methods

A total of 20 patients undergoing surgery for PVE with a patent LIMA-LAD graft were analyzed retrospectively. We divided the patients into 2 groups: group A - patients with LIMA occlusion; and group B - patients without LIMA occlusion. The pre-, intra- and postoperative results were compared and the degree of safety and benefits of the application of the method were studied.

Results

80% of patients in group A needed only dopamine infusion and 20% needed the addition of a second catecholamine at the end of CPB. In group B, the need for double catecholamine maintenance was noted in 50% of patients. The need for implantation of an intra-aortic balloon pump due to refractory heart failure was registered in 10% of patients in group A and in 20% of patients in group B. In terms of survival, mortality in the group with LIMA occlusion was 0%, while in the group without LIMA occlusion it was 20%.

Conclusions

Our observations suggest that angiographic balloon LIMA occlusion is a reliable, easily applicable and relatively safe technique that improves the surgical results.

Risk Factors of Sudden Cardiac Arrest during the Postoperative Period in Patient Undergoing Heart Valve Surgery

BACKGROUND

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the sudden cessation of normal cardiac activity with hemodynamic collapse. This usually leads to sudden cardiac death (SCD) when cardiopulmonary resuscitation is not undertaken. In patients undergoing heart valve surgery, postoperative SCA is a complication with a high risk of death, cerebral hypoxia and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Therefore, knowledge of the predictors of postoperative SCA is extremely important as it enables the identification of patients at risk of this complication and the application of the special surveillance and therapeutic management in this group of patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of selected biomarkers in predicting postoperative SCA in patients undergoing heart valve surgery.

METHODS

This prospective study was conducted on a group of 616 consecutive patients with significant valvular heart disease that underwent elective valve surgery with or without coronary artery bypass surgery. The primary end-point at the intra-hospital follow-up was postoperative SCA. The secondary end-point was death from all causes in patients with postoperative SCA. Patients were observed until discharge from the hospital or until death. Logistic regression was used to assess the relationships between variables.

RESULTS

The postoperative SCA occurred in 14 patients. At multivariate analysis, only NT-proBNP (odds ratio (OR) 1.022, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.012-1.044; p = 0.03) remained independent predictors of the primary end-point. Age and NT-proBNP were associated with an increased risk of death in patients with postoperative SCA.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the presented study indicate that SCA in the early postoperative period in patients undergoing heart valve surgery is an unpredictable event with high mortality. The potential predictive ability of the preoperative NT-proBNP level for the occurrence of postoperative SCA and death in patients after SCA demonstrated in the study may indicate that the overloaded and damaged myocardium in patients undergoing heart valve surgery is particularly sensitive to non-physiological conditions prevailing in the perioperative period, which may cause serious hemodynamic disturbances in the postoperative period and lead to death.

Moth-eaten like impact of automated titanium fasteners on aortic valve bioprosthesis: A word of caution

A 78 years old patient underwent his third biological aortic valve replacement (25 mm, Inspiris ResiliaTM, Edwards Lifesciences LLC, Irvine, USA) with COR-KNOT® (LSI Solutions, Victor, NY, USA) due to valve degeneration in 2018 at a foreign hospital. In 2021, the patient was diagnosed with severe aortic regurgitation and admitted to our hospital for his fourth surgery. Intraoperatively, a total of seven perforations in all three valve leaflets have been observed, which were obviously induced by the rigid metallic fasteners. Redo isolated aortic valve replacement (29 mm, Perimount Magna Ease, Edwards Lifesciences LLC, Irvine, USA) was performed with conventionally knotted, pledget enforced braided threads. Postoperative course was uneventful. This report shows that COR-KNOT® induced defects do not appear immediately after surgery but within the first four postoperative months. Since failure of aortic bioprostheses due to arotic insufficiency is often rated as "early degeneration" and degenerated aortic bioprostheses are mostly replaced by valve-in-valve strategy, the true incidence of this serious complication might be underestimated. COR-KNOT® should be used with caution in biological aortic valve replacement and patients should undergo close postoperative follow-ups.

Surgical Techniques and Outcomes in Patients With Intra-Cardiac Abscesses Complicating Infective Endocarditis

Background

An intra-cardiac abscess is a serious complication of both native (NV-IE) and prosthetic valve infective endocarditis (PV-IE). Despite being an accepted indication for surgery, controversies remain regarding the optimal timing and type of operation. We aimed to report the outcomes of patients managed for intra-cardiac abscesses over more than a decade.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years managed for intra-cardiac abscess between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2017 were identified from a prospectively collected IE database. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality in operated patients and secondary outcomes were freedom from re-infection, re-operation and long-term mortality comparing those patients with aortic root abscess who underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) and those who received aortic root replacement (ARR).

Results

Fifty-nine patients developed an intra-cardiac abscess, and their median age was 55 (43-71) years; among them, 44 (75%) were men, and 10 (17%) were persons who injected drugs. Infection with beta-haemolytic streptococci was associated with NV-IE (p = 0.009) and coagulase-negative staphylococci with PV-IE (p = 0.005). Forty-four (75%) underwent an operation, and among those with aortic root abscess, 27 underwent AVR and 12 ARR. Thirty-day mortality was associated with infection with S. aureus (p = 0.006) but not the type or timing of the operation. Survival in operated patients was 66% at 1 year and 59% at 5 years. In operated patients, none had a relapse, although six developed late recurrence. Freedom from infection, re-operation and long-term mortality were similar in patients undergoing AVR compared to ARR.

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed with intra-cardiac abscess who were not operated on had very poor survival. In those who underwent an operation, either by AVR or ARR based upon patient factors, imaging and intra-operative findings outcomes were similar.

Aortic root reinforcement in aortic valve endocarditis with annular abscess: The Calamari procedure

Treatment of infective endocarditis can often prove challenging due to its wide range of anatomical presentations. When complicated by an aortic root abscess, patients may require extensive root surgery, which on its own leads to a worse outcome. We present our experience with a surgical technique for reinforcing the aortic annulus with a ring from a Dacron aortic prosthesis placed in the left ventricular outflow tract to avoid the need for root replacement procedures or patch closures of the defect. The technique described in this paper provides a viable alternative to the standard techniques used for the treatment of annular abscesses in aortic valve endocarditis. Due to the relative simplicity and ease of use, this approach may present a means of reducing operation time and possibly postoperative complications of this severe condition.

Heart valve surgery and the obesity paradox: A systematic review

Obesity has been associated with increased incidence of comorbidities and shorter life expectancy, and it has generally been assumed that patients with obesity should have inferior outcomes after surgery. Previous literature has often demonstrated equivalent or even improved rates of mortality after cardiac surgery when compared to their lower-weight counterparts, coined the obesity paradox. Herein, we aim to review the literature investigating the impact of obesity on surgical valve interventions. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched for articles published from 1 January 2000 to 15 October 2021. A total of 1315 articles comparing differences in outcomes between patients of varying body mass index (BMI) undergoing valve interventions were reviewed and 25 were included in this study. Patients with higher BMI demonstrated equivalent or reduced rates of postoperative myocardial infarction, stroke, reoperation rates, acute kidney injury, dialysis and bleeding. Two studies identified increased rates of deep sternal wound infection in patients with higher BMI, although the majority of studies found no significant difference in deep sternal wound infection rates. The obesity paradox has described counterintuitive outcomes predominantly in coronary artery bypass grafting and transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Recent literature has identified similar trends in other heart valve interventions. While the obesity paradox has been well characterized, its causes are yet to be identified. Further study is essential in order to identify the causes of the obesity paradox so patients of all body sizes can receive optimal care.

A step-by-step guide to implementing a multidisciplinary endocarditis team

Over the last several years multiple studies, primarily from European centers have demonstrated the clinical and outcomes benefits of multidisciplinary endocarditis teams. Despite this literature, adoption of this approach to patient care has been slower in the United States. While there is literature outlining the optimal composition of an endocarditis team, there is little information to guide providers as they attempt to transform practice from a fragmented, disjointed process to an efficient, collaborative care model. In this review, the authors will outline the steps they took to create and implement a successful multidisciplinary endocarditis team at the University of Michigan. In conjunction with existing data, this piece can be used as a resource for clinicians seeking to improve the care of patients with endocarditis at their institutions.

Efficiency and safety of ablation procedure for the treatment of atrial fibrillation in valve surgery: A PRISMA-compliant cumulative systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation is the main complication of patients who suffer from valvular heart disease (VHD), which may lead to an increased susceptibility to ventricular tachycardia, atrial dysfunction, heart failure, and stroke. Therefore, seeking a safe and effective therapy is crucial in prolonging the lives of patients with VHD and improving their quality of life.

METHODS

Our target database included PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library, from which published articles were retrieved from inception to June 2020. We retrieved all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared patients undergoing valve surgery with (VSA) or without ablation (VS) procedure. Studies to be included were screened and data extraction was performed independently by 2 investigators. The Cochrane risk-of-bias table was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included RCTs. The mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) and relative risk (RR) ratio was calculated to analyze the data. Heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 and chi-square tests. Egger test and the trim and fill analysis were used to further determine publication bias.

RESULTS

Fourteen RCTs that included 1376 patients were eventually selected for this meta-analysis. Surgical ablation was found to be effective in restoring sinus rhythm in valvular surgery patients at discharge (RR 2.91, 95% CI [1.17, 7.20], I2 97%, P = .02), 3 to 6 months (RR 2.85, 95% CI [2.27, 3.58], I2 49%, P < .00001), 12 months, and more than 1 year after surgery (RR 3.54, 95% CI [2.78, 4.51], I2 27%, P < .00001). All-cause mortality (RR 0.98, 95% CI [0.64, 1.51], I2 0%, P = .94) and stroke (RR 1.29, 95% CI [0.70, 2.39], I2 0%, P = .57) were similar in the VSA and VS groups. Compared with VS, VSA prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time (MD 30.44, 95% CI [17.55, 43.33], I2 88%, P < .00001) and aortic cross-clamping time (MD 19.57, 95% CI [11.10, 28.03], I2 89%, P < .00001). No significant differences were found between groups with respect to the risk of bleeding (RR 0.64, 95% CI [0.37, 1.12], I2 0%, P = .12), heart failure (RR 1.11, 95% CI [0.63, 1.93], I2 0%, P = .72), and low cardiac output syndrome (RR 1.41, 95% CI [0.57, 3.46], I2 18%, P = .46). However, the demand for implantation of a permanent pacemaker was significantly higher in the VSA group (RR 1.84, 95% CI [1.15, 2.95], I2 0%, P = .01).

CONCLUSION

Although we found high heterogeneity in the restoration of sinus rhythm at discharge, we assume that the comparison is valid at this time, given the current state in the operating room. This study provides evidence of the efficacy and security of concomitant ablation intervention for patients with VHD and atrial fibrillation. Surgical ablation would increase the safety of implantation of a permanent pacemaker in the population that underwent valve surgery.

Effectiveness of additional resistance and balance training and telephone support program in exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation on quality of life and physical activity: Randomized control trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate 20 days and 3 months follow-up effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) enhanced by resistance/balance training and telephone-support program compared to usual CR care in improving quality of life, clinical course and physical activity behavior.

DESIGN

Single-centre randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Inpatient CR clinic.

SUBJECTS

116 (76.1 ± 6.7 years, 50% male) patients 14.5 ± 5.9 days after valve surgery/intervention were randomized to intervention group (IG, n = 60) or control group (CG, n = 56).

INTERVENTION

Additional resistance/balance training (3 days/week) during phase-II CR and telephone-support program during 3-month follow-up. CG patients were provided with usual CR care.

MAIN MEASURES

Short Form 36 Health Survey scales, European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version QoL index, visual analog scale, clinical course, and physical activity behavior assessed with standardized questionnaires.

RESULTS

IG reported statistically significant higher mental component score (48.5 ± 6.91 vs. 40.3 ± 11.21 at the baseline, 50.8 ± 9.76 vs. 42.6 ± 9.82 after 20 days, 49.4 ± 8.45 vs. 40.5 ± 8.9 after 12 weeks follow up), general health (48.6 ± 3.17 vs. 45.0 ± 2.95 at the baseline, 53.6 ± 3.02 vs. 43.8 ± 2.55 after 20 days, 53.2 ± 3.11 vs. 44.2 ± 3.07 after 12 weeks) and role limitations due to emotional problems (48.5 ± 15.2 vs. 27.7 ± 11.5 at the baseline, 72.7 ± 12.6 vs. 30.5 ± 11.2 after 20 days, 66.6 ± 14.2 vs. 36.1 ± 11.2 after 12 weeks) in all three assessments (p < 0.05). CG patients had more documented hospital admissions (4 (8%) vs 10 (25%), p = 0.027), atrial fibrillation paroxysms (3 (6.0%) vs. 10 (35.0%), p = 0.011) and blood pressure swings (13 (26%) vs. 20 (50%), p = 0.019). IG patients chose more different physical activities (1.7 ± 0.7 vs. 1.25 ± 0.63, p = 0.002), spent more time being physical active every day (195.6 ± 78.6 vs. 157.29 ± 78.8, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of resistance/balance exercises and telephone-support program 12 weeks after to the CR could linked to higher physical activity levels and fewer clinical complications but did not lead to a significant improvement in quality of life.

Permanent pacemaker post-valve surgery: Do valve type and position matter? A propensity score matching study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

This study evaluates whether aortic valve replacement (AVR) or mitral valve replacement (MVR) with biological versus mechanical prostheses is independent risk factors for permanent pacemaker (PPM) post-cardiac surgery, alongside traditionally accepted determinants.

METHODS

This study focused on single-centre retrospective analysis of 10 years of activity. Case-control 1-to-9 matching was performed for 7 pre-operative and 2 intraoperative confounding factors.

RESULTS

After matching, 617 patients were included for analysis: AVR (79.4% n=490) and MVR (20.6% n=127). PPM was implanted in 3.7% (n=18) and 3.1% (n=4), P=0.8, respectively. A further analysis for PPM rate in biological versus mechanical prostheses did not provide any significant result (P=0.6 AVR and P=0.8 MVR). Post-operative complications in AVR and MVR groups were as follows: Reopening (4.5% vs. 6.3%, P=0.4), myocardial infarction (0.8% vs. 3.2%, P=0.04), pulmonary (32.9% vs. 38.6%, P=0.3), neurological (9.2% vs. 11.8%, P=0.4), renal (9.8% vs. 7.9%, P=0.5), wound (1.4% vs. 2.4%, P=0.5), infective (5.5% vs. 8.7%, P=0.2), and multiple organ failure (4.9% vs. 5.5%, P=0.6). The length of intensive care unit (hours) and hospital stay (days) was 71±163.8 versus 106.5±243.7 (P=0.5) and 14.7±14.7 versus 18.9±20.8 (P=0.01). In-hospital mortality resulted in 4.1% for AVR and 3.9% for MVR, P=0.9.

CONCLUSION

Valve position and valve type do not affect the likelihood of requiring permanent pacing in patients undergoing isolated aortic and MVR.

RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS

A significant proportion of patients undergoing cardiac surgery develop arrhythmias and conduction disturbances postoperatively, often requiring the implantation of a PPM. Determining factors associated with an increase likelihood of permanent pacing would allow the optimization of per- and intra-operative care, with the aim of reducing the incidence of patients requiring post-operative PPM insertion.

Safety and efficacy of concomitant ablation for atrial fibrillation in rheumatic mitral valve surgery: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This review aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of concomitant surgical ablation (SA) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing rheumatic mitral valve (MV) surgery.

METHODS

A systematic search of relevant studies focusing on SA for patients with AF undergoing rheumatic MV surgery was performed. The primary outcomes included mortality, efficacy, and complications.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational studies covering 1931 patients met the inclusion criteria. In RCTs, no significant differences in reoperation for bleeding, low cardiac output syndrome, thromboembolic events, and early (risk ratio [RR], 2.07; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.37-11.40; p = .41) and midterm all-cause death (RR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.40-2.88; p = .89) were noted between the SA group and the nonablation group. These results were similar to those obtained from observational studies. However, ablation was associated with a higher incidence of permanent pacemaker implantation (RR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.15-5.18; p = .02) in observational studies but not in RCTs (RR, 2.03; 95% CI, 0.19-21.26; p = .56). Furthermore, additional SA was significantly more effective in sinus rhythm (SR) restoration than MV surgery alone at discharge and at the 12-month and 3-year follow-ups.

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant SA during rheumatic MV surgery does not increase perioperative adverse events. In addition, SA promotes considerable restoration of SR. Although some evidence exists that permanent pacemaker implantation is more common after ablation, not all studies support this notion.

Comparison of risk scores for predicting outcomes after isolated tricuspid valve surgery

BACKGROUND

Risk models play important roles in stratification and decision-making towards cardiac surgery. Isolated tricuspid valve surgery is a high risk but increasingly performed the operation, however, the performance of risk models has not been externally evaluated in these patients. We compared the prognostic utility of contemporary risk scores for isolated tricuspid valve surgery.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing isolated tricuspid valve surgery at Cleveland Clinic during 2004-2018 were evaluated in this cohort study. EuroSCORE II, Society of Thoracic Surgeon's tricuspid (STS-TVS) score, and the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score were retrospectively calculated, and their performance for predicting operative mortality, postoperative complications, and mortality during follow-up was assessed.

RESULTS

Amongst 207 patients studied, the mean age was 54.1 ± 17.9 years, 116 (56.0%) were female, 92 (44.4%) had secondary tricuspid regurgitation, and 151 (72.9%) had a surgical repair. Mean EuroSCORE II, STS-TVS, and MELD scores were 6.3 ± 6.6%, 5.5 ± 6.2%, and 9.8 ± 4.7, respectively. C-statistics (95% confidence intervals) for operative mortality were 0.83 (0.74-0.93) for EuroSCORE II, 0.60 (0.45-0.75) for STS-TVS score, and 0.74 (0.58-0.89) for MELD score, while observed/expected ratios were 0.78 and 0.89 for the first two scores. All three scores were associated with mortality during follow-up and discriminated most postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

EuroSCORE II was superior to STS-tricuspid score for isolated TVS risk assessment. Although surgical risk scores traditionally underestimated operative mortality after isolated tricuspid valve surgery, they did not in our cohort, reflecting the excellent surgical results. The simple MELD score performed similarly to the EuroSCORE II, especially for discriminating morbidities.

Cardiac Surgery in Women in the Current Era: What Are the Gaps in Care?

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality for women in United States and worldwide. One in 3 women dies from cardiovascular disease, and 45% of women >20 years old have some form of CVD. Historically, women have had higher morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery. Sex influences pathogenesis, pathophysiology, presentation, postoperative complications, surgical outcomes, and survival. This review summarizes current cardiovascular surgery outcomes as they pertain to women. Specifically, this article seeks to address whether sex disparities in research, surgical referral, and outcomes still exist and to provide strategies to close these gaps. In addition, with the growing population of women of reproductive age with cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular risk factors, indications for cardiac surgery arise in pregnant women. The current review will also address the unique issues associated with this special population.

Surgery Is Underused in Elderly Patients With Left-Sided Infective Endocarditis: A Nationwide Registry Study

Background

Infective endocarditis is associated with higher mortality in elderly patients, but the role of surgery in this group has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess outcomes of left‐sided infective endocarditis in elderly patients and to determine the influence of surgery on mortality in the elderly.

Methods and Results

A nationwide retrospective study was performed of 2186 patients with left‐sided infective endocarditis recorded in the SRIE (Swedish Registry of Infective Endocarditis), divided into patients aged <65 years (n=864), 65 to 79 years (n=806), and ≥80 years (n=516). Survival analysis was performed using the Swedish National Population Registry, and propensity score matching was applied to assess the effect of surgery on survival among patients of all ages. The rate of surgery decreased with increasing age, from 46% in the <65 group to 6% in the ≥80 group. In‐hospital mortality was 3 times higher in the ≥80 group compared with the <65 group (23% versus 7%) and almost twice that of the 65 to 79 group (12%). In propensity‐matched groups, the mortality rate was significantly lower between the ages of 55 and 82 years in patients who underwent surgery compared with patients who did not undergo surgery. Surgery was also associated with better long‐term survival in matched patients who were ≥75 years (hazard ratio, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.24–0.54 [P<0.001]).

Conclusions

The proportion of elderly patients with infective endocarditis who underwent surgery was low compared with that of younger patients. Surgery was associated with lower mortality irrespective of age. In matched elderly patients, long‐term mortality was higher in patients who did not undergo surgery, suggesting that surgery is underused in elderly patients.

Bicuspid aortic valve repair: An ongoing struggle in material science

BACKGROUND

Techniques and results of aortic valve repair remain challenging.

AIMS

Safari et al. seek to improve aortic valve repair by either aortic patching or valve sparing root replacement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) repair in 142 patients were examined withor without valve sparing root replacement.

RESULTS

Isolated BAV repair with or without valve sparing root replacement provided goodclinical outcomes with relatively low reoperation rate and durable valve function.

DISCUSSION

While clinical outcome from BAV repair was generally good, the authors have stopped pericardial patch augmentation of BAV leaflets due to suboptimal durability.

CONCLUSION

Thelack of a durable valve patch material and the modest durability of BAV repairin general point out that aortic valve repair remains an ongoing struggle inmaterial science.

Determinants and Prediction Equations of Six-Minute Walk Test Distance Immediately After Cardiac Surgery

Background: To date, there is no reference for a 6-min walk test distance (6-MWD) immediately after cardiac surgery. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants and to generate equations for prediction reference for 6-MWD in patients immediately after cardiac surgery.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of the 6-min walk test (6-MWT) prior to participation in the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program of patients after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) or valve surgery. The 6-MWT were carried out in a gymnasium prior to the CR program immediately after the cardiac surgery. Available demographic and clinical data of patients were analyzed to identify the clinical determinants of 6-MWD.

Results: This study obtained and analyzed the data of 1,509 patients after CABG and 632 patients after valve surgery. The 6-MWD of all patients was 321.5 ± 73.2 m (60–577). The distance was longer in the valve surgery group than that of patients in the CABG group (327.75 ± 70.5 vs. 313.59 ± 75.8 m, p < 0.001). The determinants which significantly influence the 6-MWD in the CABG group were age, gender, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, and body height, whereas in the valve surgery group these were age, gender, and atrial fibrillation. The multivariable regression models generated two formulas using the identified clinical determinants for patients after CABG: 6-MWD (meter) = 212.57 + 30.47 (if male gender) − 1.62 (age in year) + 1.09 (body height in cm) − 12.68 (if with diabetes) − 28.36 (if with atrial fibrillation), and for patients after valve surgery with the formula: 6-MWD (meter) = 371.05 + 37.98 (if male gender) − 1.36 (age in years) − 10.61 (if atrial with fibrillation).

Conclusion: This study identified several determinants for the 6-MWD and successively generated two reference equations for predicting 6-MWD in patients after CABG and valve surgery.

The Ross procedure and valve-sparing root replacement procedures in the adult patient: do guidelines follow the evidence?

Prosthetic aortic valve replacements have long been the mainstay of valvular surgery due to their favorable outcomes and low operative complexity. Yet, mechanical valves require lifelong anticoagulation, whereas bioprosthetic valves increase the risk for earlier and more frequent reoperation. Alternative reconstructive techniques have been proposed to address these challenges. These include valve-sparing root replacement procedures if the native aortic valve can be salvaged, and the Ross procedure, which nearly eliminates prosthetic valve-related thromboembolism, anticoagulation-related hemorrhage and endocarditis. Both procedures are technically more complex and thus subject to surgeons' volume and expertise compared to conventional aortic valve replacements. However, they are associated with more favorable outcomes compared to aortic valve replacements if performed by experienced surgeons, especially in younger patients. Nevertheless, despite the growing high-quality literature supporting both procedures, existing multi-society guidelines fail to acknowledge the strength of evidence in support of valve-sparing root replacement procedures and the Ross procedure. In this review, we summarize the existing long-term evidence for the use of each procedure, describe the current guidelines for the treatment of aortic valve pathology, and propose the reevaluation of guidelines based on the available clinical evidence.

Outcomes of reoperations after Ross procedure

Background

Potential for difficult reoperations has been a concern for patients undergoing a Ross procedure. Data regarding the outcomes of such reoperations is extremely limited. We examined our experience to define the current scope and risk of these operations.

Methods

Between 1996 and 2020, 83 patients who had a previous Ross procedure underwent 89 reoperative surgeries. There were 72 males and average age was 48 with a range of 18-76. Twenty-four patients had more than one prior reoperation, with five patients having more than one reoperation post Ross. Patients were stratified by primary reason for reoperation including autograft dysfunction, homograft dysfunction, or other cardiac surgical problems. Demographic, operative, and outcomes data were collected from clinical records and placed in a secure data base for analysis.

Results

A total of 176 procedures were done in the 89 operations. Autograft dysfunction affected 68 patients. Homograft dysfunction affected 27 patients. Both of these were seen in 17 patients. Other cardiac problems required 79 other procedures. There were two (2.2%) operative deaths, with perioperative morbidity affecting six patients (6.7%). Survival following reoperation after Ross was 82.3% and 77.5% (±2), at ten and fifteen years respectively.

Conclusions

Reoperations after a Ross procedure can be challenging but can be done with a high degree of safety and long-term benefit in experienced hands.

Early surgery is associated with improved long-term survival compared to class I indication for isolated severe tricuspid regurgitation

BACKGROUND

Isolated tricuspid valve (TV) surgery has higher mortality compared with other single-valve operations. The optimal timing and indications remain controversial, and earlier surgery before the development of class I surgical indications may improve outcomes. We aimed to compare the characteristics and outcomes of surgery for isolated tricuspid regurgitation (TR), based on class I indication versus an earlier operation.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing isolated TV surgery for TR without other concomitant valve surgery at our center during 2004 to 2018 were studied. Indications were divided into class I versus earlier surgery (asymptomatic severe TR with right ventricular dilation and/or dysfunction) for comparative analyses of characteristics and outcomes. The primary outcome was mortality.

RESULTS

The study included 159 patients (91 females [57.2%]; 115 for class I, 44 for early surgery), with a mean age of 59.7 ± 15.6 years, 119 (74.8%) with surgical repairs, and a mean follow-up of 5.1 ± 4.0 years. Overall operative mortality was 5.1% (8 patients) (class I, 7.0%; early surgery, 0.0%; P = .107), and class I had a higher composite morbidity than early surgery (35.7% [n = 41] vs 18.2% [n = 8]; P = .036). On Cox proportional hazard model analysis, class I versus early surgery (hazard ratio [HR], 4.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-19.7; P = .04), age (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.00-1.07; P = .046), and diabetes (HR, 2.50; 95% CI, 1.13-5.55; P = .024) were independently associated with higher mortality during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with class I indication for isolated TV surgery had worse survival compared with those undergoing earlier surgery before reaching class I indication. Earlier surgery may improve outcomes in these high-risk patients.