2021 ESC/EACTS Guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease

Anticoagulation for rheumatic mitral stenosis, INVICTUS in perspective

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) while declining in high- and middle-income countries, continues to be a major cause of death and disability in low-income countries. Although the nonvitamin-K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have essentially supplanted vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF), their efficacy for stroke prevention in patients with rheumatic MS and AF has not been widely studied until recently. The purpose of this review is to provide a succinct synopsis of the current anticoagulation recommendations for patients with native and prosthetic heart valve disease, with a specific focus on patients with rheumatic MS.

RECENT FINDINGS

The INVICTUS trial was the first large randomized evaluation of a NOAC vs. VKA in approximately 4600 patients with moderate to severe rheumatic MS and AF. The primary outcome of stroke, systemic embolization, myocardial infarction, vascular and all-cause death, VKA treated patients exhibited lower event rates (including mortality) compared to rivaroxaban. We discuss and contextualize these findings as they relate to the broader use of anticoagulants in patients with valvular heart disease, with and without concomitant AF.

SUMMARY

VKA remains the standard of care for patients with moderate to severe rheumatic MS who have concomitant AF. Rates of stroke in anticoagulated patients with rheumatic MS and AF are lower than what is traditionally held, while nonstroke related deaths remain the most common mechanism of mortality.

The impact of chronic total occlusions in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is frequently encountered in patients evaluated for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) due to severe aortic stenosis. The prognostic relevance of chronic total occlusions (CTOs) in this setting is poorly understood. We conducted a search of MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify studies evaluating patients who underwent TAVR and evaluated outcomes depending on the presence of coronary CTOs. Pooled analysis was performed to estimate the rate and risk ratio for mortality. Four studies involving 25,432 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The follow up ranged from in-hospital outcomes to 8-years follow-up. Coronary artery disease was present in 67.8% to 75.5% of patients in 3 studies which reported this variable. The prevalence of CTOs varied between 2% and 12.6% in this cohort. The presence of CTOs was associated with increase in length of stay (8.1 ± 8.2 vs. 5.9 ± 6.5, p < 0.01), cardiogenic shock (5.1% vs. 1.7%, p < 0.01), acute myocardial infarction (5.8% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.02) and acute kidney injury (18.6% vs. 13.9%, p = 0.048). The pooled 1-year death rate revealed 41 deaths in 165 patients in the CTO group and 396 deaths in 1663 patients with no CTO ((24.8%) vs. (23.8%)). The meta-analysis of death with CTO versus no CTO showed a nonsignificant trend toward increased mortality with CTOs (risk ratio 1.11 95% CI 0.90-1.40, I²  = 0%). Our analysis suggests that concomitant CTO lesions in patients undergoing TAVR are common, and its presence was associated with increased in-hospital complications. However, CTO presence by itself was not associated with increased long-term mortality, only a nonsignificant trend toward an increased risk of death in patients with CTO was found. Further studies are warranted to assess the prognostic relevance of CTO lesion in TAVR patients.

18F-Sodium Fluoride PET/CT in Assessing Valvular Heart and Atherosclerotic Diseases

Aortic valve stenosis is the most common valvular disease in Western countries, while atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the foremost cause of death and disability worldwide. Valve degeneration and atherosclerosis are mediated by inflammation and calcification and inevitably progress over time. Computed tomography can visualise the later stages of macroscopic calcification but fails to assess the early stages of microcalcification and cannot differentiate active from burnt out disease states. Molecular imaging has the ability to provide complementary information related to disease activity, which may allow us to detect disease early, to predict disease progression and to monitor preventive or therapeutic strategies for in both aortic stenosis and atherosclerosis. PET/CT is a non-invasive imaging technique that enables visualization of ongoing molecular processes within small structures, such as the coronary arteries or heart valves. ¹⁸F-sodium fluoride (¹⁸F-NaF) binds hydroxyapatite deposits in the extracellular matrix, with preferential binding to newly developing deposits of microcalcification, which provides an assessment of calcification activity. In recent years, ¹⁸F-NaF has attracted the attention of many research groups and has been evaluated in several pathological cardiovascular processes. Histologic validation of the ¹⁸F-NaF PET signal in valvular disease and atherosclerosis has been reported in multiple independent studies. The selective high-affinity binding of ¹⁸F-NaF to microscopic calcified deposits (beyond the resolution of μCT) has been demonstrated ex vivo, as well as its ability to distinguish between areas of macro- and active microcalcification. In addition, prospective clinical studies have shown that baseline ¹⁸F-NaF uptake in patients with aortic stenosis and mitral annular calcification is correlated with subsequent calcium deposition and valvular dysfunction after a follow-up period of 2 years. In patients with surgical bioprosthetic aortic valves but without morphological criteria for prosthetic degeneration, increased ¹⁸F-NaF uptake at baseline was associated with subsequent bioprosthetic degeneration over time. Similar data were obtained in a cohort of patients with transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed the association of coronary ¹⁸F-NaF uptake with adverse atherosclerotic plaque features, active disease and future disease progression. ¹⁸F-NaF uptake is also associated with future fatal or nonfatal myocardial infarction in patients with established coronary artery disease. The link between ¹⁸F-NaF uptake and active atherosclerotic disease has not only been demonstrated in the coronary arteries, but also in peripheral arterial disease, abdominal aortic aneurysms and carotid atherosclerosis. It can be assumed that ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT will strengthen the diagnostic toolbox of practitioners in the coming years. Indeed, there is a strong medical need to diagnose degenerative valvular disease and to detect active atherosclerotic disease states. Finally, the use of ¹⁸F-NaF as a biomarker to monitor the efficacy of drug therapies in preventing these pathological processes is attractive. In this review, we consider the role of ¹⁸F-NaF PET/CT imaging in cardiac valvular diseases and atherosclerosis.

Impact of left atrial and diastolic ventricular dysfunction on mortality in patients with aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is common in severe aortic stenosis (AS) and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF≥50%).

AIM

To determine the impact of American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging-recommended DD grading and left atrial strain on mortality in a cohort of patients with severe AS and preserved LVEF.

METHODS

We studied patients with severe AS (aortic valve area indexed<0.6 cm²/m² and/or aortic valve area<1cm²), LVEF≥50% and no or mild AS-related symptoms. The endpoint was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 387 patients (median age 76years; 53% women) were studied. During a median follow-up of 57 (interquartile range 37; 83) months, 158 patients died. After adjustment for prognostic factors, patients with grade II or III DD had an increased mortality risk versus patients with grade I DD (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-2.38; P=0.013; aHR 4.73, 95% CI 2.49-8.99; P<0.001; respectively). Adding peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS)≤14% to a multivariable model including DD grade improved predictive performance, with better global model fit, reclassification and discrimination. Patients with grade III DD or grade II DD+PALS≤14% displayed an increased mortality risk versus patients with grade I DD+PALS>14% (aHR 4.17, 95% CI 2.46-7.06; P<0.0001). Those with grade I DD+PALS≤14% or grade II DD+PALS>14% were at intermediate risk (aHR 1.63, 95% CI 1.07-2.49; P=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate the strong relationship between DD and mortality in patients with severe AS and preserved LVEF. Patients with grade III or grade II DD and impaired PALS are at very high risk. These data demonstrate the importance of a comprehensive assessment of diastolic function in patients with severe AS.

Aortic Stenosis Progression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve stenosis is a progressive disorder with variable progression rates. The factors affecting aortic stenosis (AS) progression remain largely unknown.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to determine AS progression rates and to assess the impact of baseline AS severity and sex on disease progression.

METHODS

The authors searched Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to July 1, 2020, for prospective studies evaluating the progression of AS with the use of echocardiography (mean gradient [MG], peak velocity [PV], peak gradient [PG], or aortic valve area [AVA]) or computed tomography (calcium score [AVC]). Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the rate of AS progression for each parameter stratified by baseline severity, and meta-regression was performed to determine the impact of baseline severity and of sex on AS progression rate.

RESULTS

A total of 24 studies including 5,450 patients (40% female) met inclusion criteria. The pooled annualized progression of MG was +4.10 mm Hg (95% CI: 2.80-5.41 mm Hg), AVA -0.08 cm² (95% CI: 0.06-0.10 cm²), PV +0.19 m/s (95% CI: 0.13-0.24 m/s), PG +7.86 mm Hg (95% CI: 4.98-10.75 mm Hg), and AVC +158.5 AU (95% CI: 55.0-261.9 AU). Increasing baseline severity of AS was predictive of higher rates of progression for MG (P < 0.001), PV (P = 0.001), and AVC (P < 0.001), but not AVA (P = 0.34) or PG (P = 0.21). Only 4 studies reported AS progression stratified by sex, with only PV and AVC having 3 studies to perform a meta-analysis. No difference between sex was observed for PV (P = 0.397) or AVC (P = 0.572), but the level of confidence was low.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides progression rates for both hemodynamic and anatomic parameters of AS and shows that increasing hemodynamic and anatomic baseline severity is associated with faster AS progression. More studies are needed to determine if sex differences affect AS progression. (Aortic Valve Stenosis Progression Rate: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis; CRD42021207726).

Myocardial Evaluation in Patients with Aortic Stenosis by Cardiac Computed Tomography

BACKGROUND

 Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is one of the most prevalent pathologies affecting the heart that can curtail expected survival and quality of life if not managed appropriately.

CURRENT STATUS

 Cardiac computed tomography (CT) has long played a central role in this subset, mostly for severity assessment and for procedural planning. Although not as widely accepted as other imaging modalities for functional myocardial assessment [i. e., transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)], this technique has recently increased its clinical application in this regard.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

 The ability to provide morphological, functional, tissue, and preprocedural information highlights the potential of the "all-in-one" concept of cardiac CT as a potential reality for the near future for AVS assessment. In this review article, we sought to analyze the current applications of cardiac CT that allow a full comprehensive evaluation of aortic valve disease.

KEY POINTS

  · Noninvasive myocardial tissue characterization stopped being an exclusive feature of cardiac magnetic resonance.. · Emerging acquisition methods make cardiac CT an accurate and widely accessible imaging modality.. · Cardiac CT has the potential to become a "one-stop" exam for comprehensive aortic stenosis assessment..

CITATION FORMAT

· Gama FF, Patel K, Bennett J et al. Myocardial Evaluation in Patients with Aortic Stenosis by Cardiac Computed Tomography. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; DOI: 10.1055/a-1999-7271.

TAVR in 2023: Who Should Not Get It?

Since the first transcatheter delivery of an aortic valve prosthesis was performed by Cribier et al in 2002, the picture of aortic stenosis (AS) therapeutics has changed dramatically. Initiated from an indication of inoperable to high surgical risk, extending to intermediate and low risk, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is now an approved treatment for patients with severe, symptomatic AS across all the risk categories. The current evidence supports TAVR as a frontline therapy for treating severe AS. The crucial question remains concerning the subset of patients who still are not ideal candidates for TAVR because of certain inherent anatomic, nonmodifiable, and procedure-specific factors. Therefore, in this study, we focus on these scenarios and reasons for referring selected patients for surgical aortic valve replacement in 2023.

Acute and Chronic Changes in Myocardial Work Parameters in Patients with Severe Primary Mitral Regurgitation Undergoing Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

BACKGROUND

The noninvasive assessment of myocardial work (MW) allows for the evaluation of left ventricular (LV) performance by considering the effect of LV afterload. This study aims to evaluate the acute and chronic impact of transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) on MW parameters and LV remodeling in patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation (PMR).

METHODS

A total of 71 patients (age: 77 ± 9 years, females: 44%) with moderate-to-severe or severe PMR (effective regurgitant orifice: 0.57 ± 0.31 cm2; regurgitant volume: 80 ± 34 mL; LV end-systolic diameter: 42 ± 12 mm) underwent TEER after a global assessment by the heart team. MW indices were evaluated before the procedure, at hospital discharge, and at 1-year follow-up. LV remodeling was described as the percentage variation in LVEDV between baseline and 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

TEER caused an acute reduction in LVEF, global longitudinal strain (GLS), global MW index (GWI), work efficiency (GWE), and mechanical dispersion (MD) and a significant increase in wasted work (GWW). One year after the procedure, GLS, GWI, GWE, and MD recovered, whereas GWW remained significantly impaired. Baseline GWW (β = -0.29, p = 0.03) was an independent predictor of LV reverse remodeling at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe PMR undergoing TEER, the acute reduction in LV preload causes significant impairment to all the parameters of LV performance. Baseline GWW was the only independent predictor of LV reverse remodeling, suggesting that a lower myocardial energetic efficiency in the context of chronic preload increase might impact the left ventricular response to mitral regurgitation correction.

Impact of Enterococci vs. Staphylococci Induced Infective Endocarditis after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

BACKGROUND

The two most common organisms found in infective endocarditis following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI-IE) are enterococci (EC-IE) and staphylococci (SC-IE). We aimed to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with EC-IE and SC-IE.

METHODS

TAVI-IE patients from 2007 to 2021 were included in this analysis. The 1-year mortality was the primary outcome measure of this retrospective multi-center analysis.

RESULTS

Out of 163 patients, 53 (32.5%) EC-IE and 69 (42.3%) SC-IE patients were included. Subjects were comparable with regard to age, sex, and clinically relevant baseline comorbidities. Symptoms at admission were not significantly different between groups, except for a lower risk for presenting with septic shock in EC-IE than SC-IE. Treatment was performed in 78% by antibiotics alone and in 22% of patients by surgery and antibiotics, with no significant differences between groups. The rate of any complication, in particular heart failure, renal failure, and septic shock during treatment for IE, was lower in EC-IE compared with SC-IE (p < 0.05). In-hospital (EC-IE: 36% vs. SC-IE: 56%, p = 0.035) and 1-year mortality (EC-IE: 51% vs. SC-IE: 70%, p = 0.009) were significantly lower in EC-IE compared with SC-IE.

CONCLUSIONS

EC-IE, compared with SC-IE, was associated with a lower morbidity and mortality. However, absolute numbers are high, a finding that should trigger further research in appropriate perioperative antibiotic management and improvement of early IE diagnosis in the case of clinical suspicion.

Prognostic value of forward flow indices in primary mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve prolapse

Background

Degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR) due to mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a common valve disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Timing for surgery is debated for asymptomatic patients without Class I indication, prompting the search for novel parameters of early left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction.

Aims

To evaluate the prognostic impact of preoperative forward flow indices on the occurrence of post-operative LV systolic dysfunction.

Methods

We retrospectively included all consecutive patients with severe DMR due to MVP who underwent mitral valve repair between 2014 and 2019. LVOTTVI, forward stroke volume index, and forward LVEF were assessed as potential risk factors for LVEF <50% at 6 months post-operatively.

Results

A total of 198 patients were included: 154 patients (78%) were asymptomatic, and 46 patients (23%) had hypertension. The mean preoperative LVEF was 69 ± 9%. 35 patients (18%) had LVEF ≤ 60%, and 61 patients (31%) had LVESD ≥40 mm. The mean post-operative LVEF was 59 ± 9%, and 21 patients (11%) had post-operative LVEF<50%. Based on multivariable analysis, LVOTTVI was the strongest independent predictor of post-operative LV dysfunction after adjustment for age, sex, symptoms, LVEF, LV end systolic diameter, atrial fibrillation and left atrial volume index (0.75 [0.62-0.91], p < 0.01). The best sensitivity (81%) and specificity (63%) was obtained with LVOTTVI ≤15 cm based on ROC curve analysis.

Conclusion

LVOTTVI represents an independent marker of myocardial performance impairment in the presence of severe DMR. LVOTTVI could be an earlier marker than traditional echo parameters and aids in the optimization of the timing of surgery.

Prognostic impact of left ventricular global longitudinal strain in atrial mitral regurgitation

OBJECTIVE

Left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) mechanics are impaired in patients with atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR), but their prognostic value in this subset of patients remains unknown. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between LA and LV longitudinal strain and clinical outcomes in patients with AFMR.

METHODS

A total of 197 patients (mean age 73±10 years, 44% men) with at least moderate AFMR were retrospectively identified. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and left atrial reservoir strain (LAS) were calculated by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. All-cause mortality was the primary endpoint of the study. The threshold value of LV GLS (≤16.3%) to identify impaired LV mechanics was defined based on the risk excess of the primary endpoint described with a spline curve analysis.

RESULTS

Impaired LV GLS (≤16.3%) was found in 89 (45%) patients. During a median follow-up of 69 months, 45 (23%) subjects experienced the primary endpoint. Patients with impaired LV GLS (≤16.3%) had a significantly lower cumulative survival rate at 5 years, as compared with patients with LV GLS (>16.3%) (74% vs 93%, p<0.001). On multivariable Cox regression analysis, LV GLS expressed as continuous variable was independently associated with the occurrence of all-cause mortality (HR 0.856, 95% CI 0.763 to 0.960; p=0.008) after adjustment for age, LAS, pulmonary artery systolic pressure and severe tricuspid regurgitation. Conversely, LAS was not significantly associated with patients' outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with significant AFMR, the impairment of LV GLS was independently associated with worse outcomes.

Isolated functional tricuspid regurgitation: how to define patients at risk for event?

AIMS

Functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a turning point in cardiac diseases. Symptoms typically appear late. The optimal timing for proposing a valve repair remains a challenge. We sought to analyse the characteristics of right heart remodelling in patients with significant functional TR to identify the parameters that could be used in a simple prognostic model predicting clinical events.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We designed a prospective observational French multicentre study including 160 patients with significant functional TR (effective regurgitant orifice area > 30 mm² ) and left ventricular ejection fraction > 40%. Clinical, echocardiographic, and electrocardiogram data were collected at baseline and at the 1 and 2 year follow-up. The primary outcome was all-cause death or hospitalization for heart failure. At 2 years, 56 patients (35%) achieved the primary outcome. The subset with events showed more advanced right heart remodelling at baseline, but similar TR severity. Right atrial volume index (RAVI) and the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion to systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (TAPSE/sPAP) ratio, reflecting right ventricular-pulmonary arterial coupling, were 73 mL/m² and 0.40 vs. 64.7 mL/m² and 0.50 in the event vs. event-free groups, respectively (both P < 0.05). None among all the clinical and imaging parameters tested had a significant group × time interaction. The multivariable analysis leads to a model including TAPSE/sPAP ratio > 0.4 (odds ratio = 0.41, 95% confidence limit 0.2 to 0.82) and RAVI > 60 mL/m² (odds ratio = 2.13, 95% confidence limit 0.96 to 4.75), providing a clinically valid prognostic evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

RAVI and TAPSE/sPAP are relevant for predicting the risk for event at 2 year follow-up in patients with an isolated functional TR.

Bleeding Events After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has gained over time a major reduction in procedural complications. Despite this, clinically relevant bleeding still occurs in a non-negligible proportion of patients and adversely affects prognosis. Patients with severe aortic stenosis are at heightened risk for spontaneous bleeding due to advanced age and a high comorbidity burden. Also, procedural factors and antithrombotic management contribute to define individual bleeding susceptibility. Bleeding prevention represents an emerging area for improving patient care. Because of the tight hemorrhagic/ischemic balance, a tailored approach based on individual bleeding-risk profile, such as a less invasive antithrombotic regimen or appropriate diagnostic preprocedural evaluation, should be pursued to avoid bleeding events. This review aims to provide an in-depth overview of bleeding events in the TAVR field, including definitions, timing and the extent of risk, and clinical impact, as well as updates on antithrombotic management and its potential influence on bleeding complications.

Tricuspid Valve Geometrical Changes in Patients with Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation: Insights from a CT Scan Analysis Focusing on Commissures

BACKGROUND

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) provides important insights into the geometrical configuration of the tricuspid valve (TV). The purpose of the present study was to assess the geometrical changes of TV in patients with functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) using novel CT scan parameters and to correlate these findings with echocardiography.

METHODS

This single-center study enrolled 86 patients undergoing cardiac CT and divided them into two groups according to the presence or not of severe TR (43 patients with TR ≥ 3+ and 43 controls). The measurements collected were as follows: TV annulus area and perimeter, septal-lateral and antero-posterior annulus diameters, eccentricity, distance between commissures, segment between the geometrical centroid and commissures, and the angles of commissures.

RESULTS

We found a significant correlation between all annulus measurements and the grade of TR, except in regard to angles. TR ≥ 3+ patients had significantly larger TV annulus area and perimeter, larger septal-lateral, and antero-posterior annulus dimensions, as well as larger commissural distance and centroid-commissural distance. In patients with TR ≥ 3+ and controls, the eccentricity index predicted a circular shape and an oval shape of the annulus, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These novel CT variables focusing on commissures increase the anatomical understanding of the TV apparatus and the TV geometrical changes in patients with severe functional TR.

Impact of Concomitant Mitral Regurgitation on the Hemodynamic Indicators of Aortic Stenosis

Background In patients with aortic stenosis (AS), the presence of mitral regurgitation (MR) can lead to underestimation of AS severity and worse clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to characterize the magnitude of the effects of concomitant MR on hemodynamic indicators of AS severity using clinical data and a computational cardiovascular simulation. Methods and Results Echocardiographic data from 1427 patients with severe AS were used to inform a computational cardiovascular system model, and varying degrees of MR and AS were simulated. Hemodynamic data, including left ventricular and aortic pressure waveforms, were generated for all simulations. Simulated reduction in mean transaortic pressure gradient (MPG) associated with MR was then used to calculate the adjusted MPG in the clinical cohort. MR was present in 861 (60%) patients. Compared with patients without MR, patients with MR had a lower aortic-valve area (0.83±0.2 cm2 versus 0.75±0.2; P<0.001) and were more likely to have a low-gradient pattern (MPG <40 mm Hg) (45% versus 54%; P<0.001). Simulations showed that the presence of concomitant mild, moderate, and severe MR with AS was accompanied by a mean reduction in MPG of 10%, 29%, and 40%, respectively. For patients with MR, their calculated adjusted MPG was on average 24% higher than their MPG (52±22 versus 42±16 mm Hg). Of the 467 patients with low-gradient AS and MR, 240 (51%) would reclassify as high gradient based on their adjusted MPG. Conclusions Concomitant MR results in lower MPG and reduced forward flow compared with isolated AS. Careful quantitation of MR should be factored into the assessment of AS severity to mitigate for potential underestimation.

Mechanical versus Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Replacement in Middle-Aged Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Mechanical prostheses and bioprosthetic prostheses have their own advantages and disadvantages. Mechanical ones are recommended for younger patients (<50 years old), and bioprosthetic ones are recommended for older patients (>70 years old). There is still debate regarding which kind of prosthesis is better for middle-aged patients (50 to 70 years old) receiving aortic valve replacement (AVR). To solve this problem, we conducted this meta-analysis. Given that only one randomized controlled trial (RCT) study was included, we conducted a subgroup analysis of RCT and propensity score matching (PSM) retrospective studies to reduce the bias.

METHODS

We systematically searched articles related to clinical outcomes of mechanical and bioprosthetic prostheses in middle-aged patients receiving AVR in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. The published date was up to 1 October 2022. Studies were excluded if not only middle-aged patients were included, or if they lacked direct comparisons between mechanical and bioprosthetic prostheses.

RESULTS

In total, 22 studies with 32,298 patients were included in the final analysis. The results show that patients aged between 50 and 70 receiving AVR with mechanical prostheses achieved better long-term survival and fewer reoperations and valve-related events but suffered more with bleeding events. No significant difference could be found in terms of early mortality and long-term cardiac death. The same results could be observed in the subgroup analysis of RCT and PSM retrospective studies.

CONCLUSION

Both mechanical and bioprosthetic prostheses are beneficial to middle-aged patients undertaking AVR procedures. However, mechanical prostheses show better clinical outcomes in long-term survival and comorbidities. Individual recommendation is still necessary.

Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair via MitraClip in Patients Aged <65 Years: Multicentre 2-year Outcomes

Background

Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) using the MitraClip has become a well-established interventional therapy and is usually performed in elderly patients. The objective of this study was to assess 2-year clinical outcomes of TMVR in patients aged <65 years at three heart centres with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and no surgical options.

Methods

A retrospective study analysed data of 36 patients aged <65 years treated with TMVR . All patients were refused surgery by Heart Team decision. Baseline MR was assessed by biplane vena contracta width in two perpendicular views (mean 8.35 ± 1.87 mm). Degenerative MR was detected in 11 patients (30.6%); functional MR was detected in 25 patients (69.4%).

Results

Acute procedural success was accomplished in 88.9% of patients. No procedure-related mortality during the first 30 days was detected. Over an average of 2 years of follow-up, all-cause mortality was 19.4% and cardiovascular death was 11.1% owing to advanced heart failure. The average follow-up period was 25.8 months (median was 20 months). Statistically significant difference (p-value <0.01) was detected for N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (pg/ml) at baseline (mean 9,870 ± 10,819; median 7,748) compared to follow-up visits (mean 7,645 ± 11,292; median 3,263). New York Heart Association functional class improvement was achieved in 69% of patients. A second intervention (reclipping) was required in two patients to correct recurrent significant MR.

Conclusion

TMVR in patients aged <65 years refused surgical repair provides satisfactory clinical outcomes at 2 years. Future studies should evaluate the outcomes of MitraClip in this population in a larger cohort.

Exploring the Cardiotoxicity Spectrum of Anti-Cancer Treatments: Definition, Classification, and Diagnostic Pathways

Early detection and treatment of cancer have led to a noticeable reduction in both mortality and morbidity. However, chemotherapy and radiotherapy could exert cardiovascular (CV) side effects, impacting survival and quality of life, independent of the oncologic prognosis. In this regard, a high clinical index of suspicion is required by the multidisciplinary care team in order to trigger specific laboratory tests (namely natriuretic peptides and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin) and appropriate imaging techniques (transthoracic echocardiography along with cardiac magnetic resonance, cardiac computed tomography, and nuclear testing (if clinically indicated)), leading to timely diagnosis. In the near future, we do expect a more tailored approach to patient care within the respective community along with the widespread implementation of digital health tools.

Incremental value of left ventricular global longitudinal strain in moderate aortic stenosis and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

Moderate aortic stenosis (AS) often coexists with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and may affect survival through afterload mismatch. Because outcomes are ultimately driven by the condition of the LV, accurate assessment of LV performance is crucial to improve risk stratification. This study investigated the prognostic value of LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) in patients with moderate AS and reduced LV systolic dysfunction.

METHODS

Patients with moderate AS (aortic valve area 1.0-1.5 cm²) and reduced LV ejection fraction (EF) (<50%) were identified. LVGLS was evaluated with speckle-tracking echocardiography. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to an LVGLS value of 11%, based on spline curve analysis. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 166 patients (mean age 73 ± 11 years, 71% male) were included. The cumulative 1- and 5-year mortality rates were higher in patients with LVGLS <11% (25% and 60%) versus LVGLS ≥11% (10% and 27%) (p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, LVGLS as a continuous variable (HR 0.753; 95% CI 0.673-0.843; p < 0.001) and as a categorical variable (<11%) (HR 3.028; 95% CI 1.623-5.648; p < 0.001) were independently associated with outcomes, whereas LVEF was not. LVGLS provided additional prognostic information in patients with/without coronary artery disease and with mildly versus severely reduced LVEF. In addition, LVGLS had incremental prognostic value over established risk factors, including LVEF.

CONCLUSION

The combination of moderate AS and reduced LV systolic dysfunction is associated with a high mortality risk. LVGLS, but not LVEF, is independently associated with mortality and provides incremental prognostic value over established risk factors in patients with moderate AS and reduced LVEF.

Heart Rate Variability Analysis on Electrocardiograms, Seismocardiograms and Gyrocardiograms of Healthy Volunteers and Patients with Valvular Heart Diseases

Heart rate variability (HRV) is the physiological variation in the intervals between consecutive heartbeats that reflects the activity of the autonomic nervous system. This parameter is traditionally evaluated based on electrocardiograms (ECG signals). Seismocardiography (SCG) and/or gyrocardiography (GCG) are used to monitor cardiac mechanical activity; therefore, they may be used in HRV analysis and the evaluation of valvular heart diseases (VHDs) simultaneously. The purpose of this study was to compare the time domain, frequency domain and nonlinear HRV indices obtained from electrocardiograms, seismocardiograms (SCG signals) and gyrocardiograms (GCG signals) in healthy volunteers and patients with valvular heart diseases. An analysis of the time domain, frequency domain and nonlinear heart rate variability was conducted on electrocardiograms and gyrocardiograms registered from 29 healthy male volunteers and 30 patients with valvular heart diseases admitted to the Columbia University Medical Center (New York City, NY, USA). The results of the HRV analysis show a strong linear correlation with the HRV indices calculated from the ECG, SCG and GCG signals and prove the feasibility and reliability of HRV analysis despite the influence of VHDs on the SCG and GCG waveforms.

Metals and Trace Elements in Calcified Valves in Patients with Acquired Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis: Is There a Connection with the Degeneration Process?

BACKGROUND

Acquired calcified aortic valve stenosis is the most common valve disease in adulthood. In the etiopathogenesis of this complex pathology, the importance of inflammation is mentioned, in which non-infectious influences represented by the biological effects of metal pollutants may participate. The main goal of the study was to determine the concentration of 21 metals and trace elements-aluminium (Al), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), calcium (Ca), chrome (Cr), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), gold (Au), lead (Pb), magnesium (Mg), mercury (Hg), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), phosphorus (P), selenium (Se), strontium (Sr), sulfur (S), tin (Sn), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V) and zinc (Zn)-in the tissue of calcified aortic valves and to compare them with the concentrations of the same elements in the tissue of healthy aortic valves in the control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 49 patients (25 men, mean age: 74) with acquired, severe, calcified aortic valve stenosis with indicated heart surgery. The control group included 34 deceased (20 men, median age: 53) with no evidence of heart disease. Calcified valves were explanted during cardiac surgery and deep frozen. Similarly, the valves of the control group were removed. All valves were lyophilized and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The concentrations of selected elements were compared by means of standard statistical methods.

RESULTS

Calcified aortic valves contained significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of Ba, Ca, Co, Cr, Mg, P, Pb, Se, Sn, Sr and Zn and-in contrast-lower concentrations of Cd, Cu, Mo, S and V than valves of the control group. Significant positive correlations of concentrations between the pairs Ca-P, Cu-S and Se-S and strong negative correlations between the elements Mg-Se, P-S and Ca-S were found in the affected valves.

CONCLUSION

Aortic valve calcification is associated with increased tissue accumulation of the majority of the analyzed elements, including metal pollutants. Some exposure factors may increase their accumulation in the valve tissue. A relationship between exposure to environmental burden and the aortic valve calcification process cannot be ruled out. Advances in histochemical and imaging techniques allowing imaging of metal pollutants directly in valve tissue may represent an important future perspective.

Anatomical Changes after Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair in Functional MR According to MitraClip Generation

BACKGROUND

The use of mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is rapidly increasing. Anatomical changes have been described after TEER with the MitraClip system in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (MR), although no study has yet evaluated such anatomical impacts in patients treated with the G4 MitraClip generation.

METHODS

This research constituted a prospective, single-center, observational study including consecutive patients with functional MR. Mitral three-dimensional images were obtained transesophageally with echocardiography before and immediately after TEER. Patients receiving the late-generation (G4) system were compared to those receiving early-generation systems.

RESULTS

A total of 116 functional MR patients were evaluated, and 40 (34.5%) and 76 (65.5%) received a late-generation (G4) or early-generation device system, respectively. The baseline clinical and echocardiographic features were well-balanced between the groups. Overall, there was a significant reduction in mitral annular size after the intervention, and greater reductions in the anteroposterior diameter (4 mm vs. 3.54 mm, p = 0.03), annular perimeter (11.07 mm vs. 5.29 mm for 3D-perimeter, p = 0.001), and annular area (1.29 cm2 vs. 1.03 cm2, p = 0.002) were found for patients receiving the late G4 device generation compared to the early-generation systems.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with functional MR, we observed significant changes in mitral valve anatomy with a reduction in anteroposterior diameter, valve perimeter, and area. In our cohort, the extent of those changes was greater with the use of the new-generation G4 MitraClip system compared to prior device generations.

Spectral CT Imaging of Prosthetic Valve Embolization after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Transcatheter heart valve (THV) embolization is a rare complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) generally caused by malpositioning, sizing inaccuracies and pacing failures. The consequences are related to the site of embolization, ranging from a silent clinical picture when the device is stably anchored in the descending aorta to potentially fatal outcomes (e.g., obstruction of flow to vital organs, aortic dissection, thrombosis, etc.). Here, we present the case of a 65-year-old severely obese woman affected by severe aortic valve stenosis who underwent TAVI complicated by embolization of the device. The patient underwent spectral CT angiography that allowed for improved image quality by means of virtual monoenergetic reconstructions, permitting optimal pre-procedural planning. She was successfully re-treated with implantation of a second prosthetic valve a few weeks later.

1-year outcomes of patients implanted with the Perceval sutureless valve: the Japanese post-marketing surveillance study

Sutureless offers an alternative to standard valves in surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). We sought to confirm the efficacy and safety of the Perceval sutureless valve in Japanese patients. Prospective observational study of 204 patients who underwent SAVR with Perceval at 19 sites in Japan between March and December 2019. The primary outcomes were 30-day mortality and postoperative complications; the secondary outcome was all-cause mortality at 1 year. Efficacy outcomes were changed in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, pressure gradients, effective orifice area (EOA), EOA indexed to body surface area (EOAi) and severity of aortic regurgitation. Mean age was 77.7 years, 62.7% were female. Procedural success rate was 99.0%. The median cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times were 68.0 and 108 min. Perceval size S and M were implanted in 95 (46.6%) and in 76 (37.3%) of patients, respectively. The 30-day and late mortality rate were 0.5% and 4.4%, while the new permanent pacemaker implantation rate was 4.4%. Mean pressure gradient was 13.0 mmHg at discharge, reaching 11.0 mmHg at 1 year; while the mean EOA was 1.5 cm² at discharge remaining stable up to 1 year. No moderate or severe leakages were present at discharge or at 1 year. NYHA class improved by ≥ 1 level in 55.1% of the patients at discharge and in 69.4% of the patients at 1 year. 1-year outcomes of SAVR with the Perceval sutureless valve in Japanese patients were favorable. This valve offers a promising alternative to conventional biological AVR in this Japanese population.

New Practices in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: How I Do It in 2023

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) went through a huge evolution in the last decades. Previously performed under general anesthesia, with transoperative transesophageal echocardiography guidance and using cutdown femoral artery access, the procedure has now evolved into a minimalist approach, with local anesthesia, conscious sedation, and the avoidance of invasive lines becoming the new standards. Here, we discuss the minimalist TAVI approach and how we incorporate it into our current clinical practice.

Modifiable risk factors for permanent pacemaker after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: CONDUCT registry

OBJECTIVE

The onset of new conduction abnormalities requiring permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is still a relevant adverse event. The main objective of this registry was to identify modifiable procedural risk factors for an improved outcome (lower rate of PPI) after TAVI in patients at high risk of PPI.

METHODS

Patients from four European centres receiving a balloon-expandable TAVI (Edwards SAPIEN 3/3 Ultra) and considered at high risk of PPI (pre-existing conduction disturbance, heavily calcified left ventricular outflow tract or short membranous septum) were prospectively enrolled into registry.

RESULTS

A total of 300 patients were included: 42 (14.0%) required PPI after TAVI and 258 (86.0%) did not. Patients with PPI had a longer intensive care unit plus intermediate care stay (65.7 vs 16.3 hours, p<0.001), general ward care stay (6.9 vs 5.3 days, p=0.004) and later discharge (8.6 vs 5.0 days, p<0.001). Of the baseline variables, only pre-existing right bundle branch block at baseline (OR 6.8, 95% CI 2.5 to 18.1) was significantly associated with PPI in the multivariable analysis. Among procedure-related variables, oversizing had the highest impact on the rate of PPI: higher than manufacturer-recommended sizing, mean area oversizing as well as the use of the 29 mm valve (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.4 to 8.5, p=0.008) all were significantly associated with PPI. Rates were higher with the SAPIEN 3 (16.1%) vs SAPIEN 3 Ultra (8.5%), although not statistically significant but potentially associated with valve sizing. Implantation depth and postdelivery balloon dilatation also tended to affect PPI rates but without a statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Valve oversizing is a strong procedure-related risk factor for PPI following TAVI. The clinical impact of the valve type (SAPIEN 3), implantation depth, and postdelivery balloon dilatation did not reach significance and may reflect already refined procedures in the participating centres, giving attention to these avoidable risk factors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03497611.

Key Echocardiographic Considerations for Tricuspid Valve Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

Chronic tricuspid regurgitation (TR) results in progressive right ventricular (RV) volume overload, followed by right-sided chamber dilatation, RV systolic dysfunction, and eventual low-output cardiac failure. Severe TR is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, and yet until recently, patients in the late stage of their disease course had limited treatment options. Cognizant of the high mortality rates associated with surgical intervention, tricuspid valve (TV) transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) has emerged as a promising solution for patients with severe TR. As has been learned from the transcatheter mitral valve TEER experience, detailed morphological and mechanistic assessment of the TV with transthoracic and transesophageal imaging is essential to optimal patient selection and procedural success. The current review will provide a comprehensive overview of TV anatomy, the updated mechanistic classification of TR, and key echocardiographic considerations in the evaluation, management, and follow-up of patients undergoing TV TEER.

Valve-in-valve TAVI and risk of coronary obstruction: Validation of the VIVID classification

BACKGROUND

The Valve-in-Valve International Data (VIVID) registry proposed a simplified classification to assess the risk of coronary obstruction during valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (ViV-TAVI) based on preprocedural multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT). We investigated the validity of the VIVID classification in patients undergoing ViV-TAVI for degenerated bioprostheses.

METHODS

Patients undergoing ViV-TAVI for degenerated bioprostheses were prospectively included in this study. The risk of coronary obstruction among patients treated with stented valves was retrospectively evaluated based on anatomical assessment on pre-procedural MDCT.

RESULTS

Among a total of 137 patients that underwent ViV-TAVI between August 2007 and June 2021, 109 patients had stented, sutureless, or transcatheter degenerated bioprosthesis of which 96 (88%) had adequate MDCT data for risk assessment. High-risk anatomy for coronary obstruction (VIVID type IIB, IIIB, or IIIC) in either the left or right coronary artery was observed in 30 patients (31.3%). Of the 30 patients with high-risk anatomy, coronary protection using wire protection or BASILICA (bioprosthetic or native aortic scallop intentional laceration to prevent iatrogenic coronary artery obstruction) was performed in 3 patients (10.0%). Three patients treated with stentless valves and one patient treated with a stented valve with externally mounted leaflets had coronary obstruction. None of the patients with high risk anatomy according to MDCT had coronary obstruction even without coronary protection.

CONCLUSIONS

Coronary obstruction occurred in none of the patients classified as high-risk patients according to the VIVID classification despite the absence of coronary protection. Refined tools are required to assess the risk of coronary obstruction.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov. NCT01368250.

Acute Modification of Hemodynamic Forces in Patients with Severe Aortic Stenosis after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is the established first-line treatment for patient with severe aortic stenosis not suitable for surgery. Echocardiographic evaluation of hemodynamic forces (HDFs) is a growing field, holding the potential to early predict improvement in LV function. A prospective observational study was conducted. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed before and after TAVI. HDFs were analyzed along with traditional left ventricular (LV) function parameters. Twenty-five consecutive patients undergoing TAVI were enrolled: mean age 83 ± 5 years, 74.5% male, mean LV Ejection Fraction (LVEF) at baseline 57 ± 8%. Post-TAVI echocardiographic evaluation was performed 2.4 ± 1.06 days after the procedure. HDF amplitude parameters improved significantly after the procedure: LV Longitudinal Forces (LF) apex-base [mean difference (MD) 1.79%; 95% CI 1.07-2.5; p-value < 0.001]; LV systolic LF apex-base (MD 2.6%; 95% CI 1.57-3.7; p-value < 0.001); LV impulse (LVim) apex-base (MD 2.9%; 95% CI 1.48-4.3; p-value < 0.001). Similarly, HDFs orientation parameters improved: LVLF angle (MD 1.5°; 95% CI 0.07-2.9; p-value = 0.041); LVim angle (MD 2.16°; 95% CI 0.76-3.56; p-value = 0.004). Conversely, global longitudinal strain and LVEF did not show any significant difference before and after the procedure. Echocardiographic analysis of HDFs could help differentiate patients with LV function recovery after TAVI from patients with persistent hemodynamic dysfunction.

MitraClip as a therapeutic strategy for post-myocardial infarction mitral regurgitation

Mitral regurgitation is a serious complication of post-myocardial infarction, with increasing mortality. Surgery as the primary treatment carries a high risk. MitraClip is a new therapeutic to treat post-myocardial infarction mitral regurgitation. In this case, a 62-year-old male patient suffered from severe heart failure symptoms after emergency coronary intervention and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Based on cardiac echocardiography, severe mitral regurgitation was monitored in this patient. After MitraClip treatment, the patient's condition was gradually improved and discharged successfully. This case highlights that MitraClip is a safe and effective strategy for post-myocardial infarction mitral regurgitation.

Prediction of Surgical Approach in Mitral Valve Disease by XGBoost Algorithm Based on Echocardiographic Features

In this study, we aimed to develop a prediction model to assist surgeons in choosing an appropriate surgical approach for mitral valve disease patients. We retrospectively analyzed a total of 143 patients who underwent surgery for mitral valve disease. The XGBoost algorithm was used to establish a predictive model to decide a surgical approach (mitral valve repair or replacement) based on the echocardiographic features of the mitral valve apparatus, such as leaflets, the annulus, and sub-valvular structures. The results showed that the accuracy of the predictive model was 81.09% in predicting the appropriate surgical approach based on the patient's preoperative echocardiography. The result of the predictive model was superior to the traditional complexity score (81.09% vs. 75%). Additionally, the predictive model showed that the three main factors affecting the choice of surgical approach were leaflet restriction, calcification of the leaflet, and perforation or cleft of the leaflet. We developed a novel predictive model using the XGBoost algorithm based on echocardiographic features to assist surgeons in choosing an appropriate surgical approach for patients with mitral valve disease.

Transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair in mitral regurgitation: current status and future prospects

INTRODUCTION

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Within the past 15 years, mitral valve edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) has developed from an experimental approach to a guideline-recommended, safe, and effective treatment option for patients with severe primary or secondary mitral regurgitation.

AREAS COVERED

This review covered relevant publications of M-TEER and summarizes the development of M-TEER devices within the last 15 years. It outlines anatomical challenges which drove the evolution of M-TEER devices, provides an overview about the current state of clinical application and research, and offers an outlook into the future of transcatheter mitral valve treatment.

EXPERT OPINION

The development and refinement of new M-TEER device generations offer the possibility to treat a wide range of mitral valve anatomies. Choosing the best device for the individual anatomic properties of the patients and considering comorbidities is the key to maximized MR reduction, minimalized complication rates, and thus optimized postinterventional prognosis. Independent from prognostic implications, quality of life has become an important patient-centered outcome that can be improved by M-TEER in virtually all patients treated.

Challenging Decision-Making Between Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Aortic Valve Surgery: A Case of a Jehovah's Witness Patient With Severe Symptomatic Aortic Stenosis Coexisting With Severe Mitral Regurgitation and Bicuspid Aortic Valve

A 73-year-old Jehovah's witness man with a bicuspid aortic valve and a history of epilepsy presented to the emergency room with chest pain and dyspnea. Echocardiography revealed normal left ventricular systolic function, but also revealed severe aortic stenosis and severe mitral regurgitation. Coronary angiography and computerized tomography angiography ruled out any significant coronary artery disease and aortic dissection, respectively. In view of his religious views, transcatheter aortic valve implantation was considered more suitable than aortic valve surgery and was successful with a stable postoperative state. This case reaffirms that autonomy should be maintained while considering the best interest of patients in decision-making.

[Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Multivalvular Heart Disease]

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Multivalvular Heart Disease Abstract. The prevalence of multivaluvular heart disease is high in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The most common combination is aortic valve stenosis (AS) and mitral regurgitation, followed by the combination of AS with a tricuspid regurgitation or mitral stenosis. Grading of multivalvular disease is challenging and can quickly lead to underestimation of the disease stage. Therefore, a profound knowledge of pathophysiologic interactions is essential, and the patient should always undergo multimodal evaluation. After a successful TAVI intervention, secondary heart valve defects may improve, deteriorate, or remain unchanged. Due to the still sparse scientific data in this field, the role of the heart team remains central to provide the patient with an individually adapted therapy plan.

Cusp-overlap versus coplanar view in transcatheter aortic valve implantation with self-expandable valves: A meta-analysis of comparative studies

BACKGROUND

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) is a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The cusp-overlap view (COV) was adopted to reduce PPI risk after TAVI with self-expandable valves (SEVs); however, the evidence remains scarce. We performed a systematic review with meta-analysis comparing COV and the standard coplanar view (CPV) technique to evaluate their effectiveness and safety.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA statement, data were extracted from studies published by August 2022 and found in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL/CCTR, ClinicalTrials.gov, SciELO, LILACS, and Google Scholar. The primary outcome of interest was post-procedural PPI and the secondary outcomes were new left bundle branch block (LBBB), moderate/severe paravalvular leak (PVL), valve dislocation (pop-out); need of second transcatheter heart valve, 30-day mortality, stroke, conversion to surgery, coronary obstruction, implantation depth (mm), and post-TAVI mean gradients (mmHg).

RESULTS

Eleven studies met our eligibility criteria and included 1464 patients in the COV group and 1743 patients in the CPV group. Patients who underwent TAVI with COV had lower risk of PPI (odds ratio 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.33-0.70; p = 0.001) and higher implantation depths with COV (mean difference -0.83; 95% CI -1.2 to -0.45; p < 0.001). We did not observe any statistically significant differences in the rates of new LBBB, moderate/severe PVL, valve dislocation, need of second transcatheter heart valve, 30-day mortality, stroke, conversion to surgery, coronary obstruction, and post-TAVI mean gradients (mmHg).

CONCLUSION

In TAVI with SEVs, the application of COV is associated with lower risk of PPI compared with the standard CPV without increasing risk for adverse outcomes.

A very rare vascular complication of the Edwards expandable eSheath during transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the management of severe symptomatic aortic valve stenosis. TAVR is now indicated as an alternative to surgical replacement in a wide risk profile ranging from high to low surgical risk. Although vascular complications have decreased in frequency over time, with the introduction of lower profile delivery systems and sheaths, they remain one of the most frequently encountered and serious complications of TAVR. Patient-specific predisposing factors have been well characterized. However, much less is known about device-specific complications. Awareness of the possible device-related complications may lead to earlier identification, prompt management, and better outcomes. We report a previously unreported complication of the Edwards expandable eSheath that lead to avulsion of the external iliac artery following successful TAVR with a 29-mm Edwards Sapien 3 transcatheter heart valve. Bleeding was promptly controlled with an occlusion balloon and emergency surgical repair was required with a favorable outcome.

Functional continuum: independent predictor of one-year mortality and key decision-making element in older adults with severe aortic stenosis amenable to aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

The impact of functional capacity over the entire functional continuum in older adults undergoing aortic valve replacement (AVR) has not been studied to date. This study aims to analyze 1.- the distribution of a cohort of older adults presenting severe aortic stenosis (AS) amenable to AVR in the different categories of the Functional Continuum Scale (FCS); 2.- its association with decision-making regarding valve disease; and 3.- its impact upon the one-year mortality rate of surgical (SAVR), transcatheter (TAVR) aortic valve replacement, or the decision to provide conservative management (OMT).

METHODS

This prospective study included patients from the FRESAS (FRailty-Evaluation-in-Severe-Aortic-Stenosis) registry evaluated by the reference Heart-Team of a region in northern Spain. All the patients underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment.

RESULTS

The study comprised 257 patients aged 84.0 ± 3.9 years.

MANAGEMENT

SAVR: 25.3%, TAVR: 58.0% and OMT: 16.7%. Increased patient functional capacity was associated with an increased tendency to perform more invasive valve disease treatment. The overall one-year survival rate was 81.3%. One-year all-cause mortality: FCS-1 to FCS-2 "robust" 11.5%, FCS-3 to FCS-4 "prefrail" 14.7%, FCS-5 "frail" 19.2% and FCS-6 to FCS-8 "dependent" 45.0%; p < 0.001. Adjusted mortality analysis: FCS with HR = 1.206 [95%CI, 0.999-1.451 (p = 0.051)]; EuroSCORE-II with HR = 1.071 [95%CI, 1.006-1.161 (p = 0.033)]; and OMT with HR = 2.840 [95%CI, 1.409-5.772 (p = 0.004)] were retained in the final multivariable logistic regression model.

CONCLUSIONS

In older AS patients amenable to AVR, the FCS is a useful predictive tool that may aid clinical decision-making.

The economics of TAVI: A systematic review

Objective

The scope of this systematic review is to update the existing body of evidence regarding the cost-effectiveness of transcatheter aortic valve implantation, stratified across all risk categories, and to assess their methodological quality.

Methods

A systematic review was performed including published cost-effectiveness analyses of heart valve implantations. The quality was assessed with the Quality of Health Economics Tool.

Results

We identified 33 economic evaluations of transcatheter aortic heart valve implantations. Results were not consistent, ranging from dominant to dominating. Moreover, the models were sensitive to an array of variables. The methodological quality of the studies was good.

Conclusion

This systematic review led to inconclusive and inconsistent results pertinent to the economic profile of TAVI technology. It also highlighted areas which merit further research regarding the pillars of cost-effectiveness analysis such as modeling, the extrapolation of available data and the uncertainty of the evidence. A thorough assessment of the patient should proceed any decision-making.

Gaze patterns reflect and predict expertise in dynamic echocardiographic imaging

Purpose

Echocardiography is the most important modality in cardiac imaging. Rapid valid visual assessment is a critical skill for image interpretation. However, it is unclear how skilled viewers assess echocardiographic images. Therefore, guidance and implicit advice are needed for learners to achieve valid image interpretation.

Approach

Using a signal detection approach, we compared 15 certified experts with 15 medical students in their diagnostic decision-making and viewing behavior. To quantify attention allocation, we recorded eye movements while viewing dynamic echocardiographic imaging loops of patients with reduced ejection fraction and healthy controls. Participants evaluated left ventricular ejection fraction and image quality (as diagnostic and visual control tasks, respectively).

Results

Experts were much better at discriminating between patients and healthy controls (d ' of 2.58, versus 0.98 for novices). Eye tracking revealed that experts fixated diagnostically relevant areas earlier and more often, whereas novices were distracted by visually salient task-irrelevant stimuli. We show that expertise status can be almost perfectly classified either based on judgments or purely on eye movements and that an expertise score derived from viewing behavior predicts diagnostic quality.

Conclusions

Judgments and eye tracking revealed significant differences between echocardiography experts and novices that can be used to derive numerical expertise scores. Experts have implicitly learned to ignore the salient motion cue presented by the mitral valve and to focus on the diagnostically more relevant left ventricle. These findings have implications for echocardiography training, objective characterization of echocardiographic expertise, and the design of user-friendly interfaces for echocardiography.