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

Late Outcomes of Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After TAVR: Meta-analysis of Reconstructed Time-to-Event Data

Background

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is relatively frequent, and its impact on outcomes during follow-up remains a matter of discussion. Previous meta-analyses have yielded conflicting results.

Methods

To compare late outcomes in patients after TAVR with and without PPI, PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for studies that reported rates of mortality/survival, rehospitalization for heart failure (HF), stroke, and/or endocarditis accompanied by at least 1 Kaplan-Meier curve for any of these outcomes. We adopted a 2-stage approach to reconstruct individual patient data on the basis of the published Kaplan-Meier graphs.

Results

Twenty-eight studies with Kaplan-Meier curves met our eligibility criteria and included a total of 50,282 patients (7232 who underwent PPI and 42,959 who did not undergo PPI). Patients who underwent PPI after TAVR had a significantly higher risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.21; 95% CI, 1.14-1.28; P < .001) and HF-related rehospitalization (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.17-1.45; P < .001) over time. We did not observe statistically significant differences in the incidence of stroke (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.55-2.08; P = .849) and endocarditis (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.61-1.57; P = .925) during follow-up.

Conclusions

Patients who undergo PPI after TAVR experience higher risk of mortality and HF-related rehospitalization over time. These findings provide support for the implementation of procedural strategies to prevent heart conduction disorder and, thus, avoid PPI at the time of TAVR.

Association of aortic distensibility and left ventricular function in patients with stenotic bicuspid aortic valve and preserved ejection fraction: a CMR study

To determine the relationship between aortic distensibility and left ventricular (LV) remodeling, myocardial strain and blood biomarkers in patients with stenotic bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and preserved ejection fraction (EF) by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). 43 stenotic BAV patients were prospectively selected for 3.0 T CMR. Patients were divided into LV remodeling group (LV mass/volume ≥ 1.15, n = 21) and non-remodeling group (LV mass/volume < 1.15, n = 22). Clinical characteristics, biochemical data including cardiac troponin T(cTNT), N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) were noted. Distensibility of middle ascending aorta (mid-AA) and proximal descending aorta, LV structural and functional parameters, global and regional myocardial strain were measured. Compared to non-remodeling group, LV remodeling group had significantly decreased LV global strain (radial: 26.04 ± 8.70% vs. 32.92 ± 7.81%, P = 0.009; circumferential: - 17.20 ± 3.38% vs. - 19.65 ± 2.34%, P = 0.008; longitudinal: - 9.13 ± 2.34% vs. - 11.63 ± 1.99%, P < 0.001) and decreased mid-AA distensibility (1.22 ± 0.24 10-3 mm/Hg vs 1.60 ± 0.41 10-3 mm/Hg, P = 0.001). In addition, mid-AA distensibility was independently associated with LV remodeling (β =  - 0.282, P = 0.003), and it was also significantly correlated with LV global strain (radial: r = 0.392, P = 0.009; circumferential: r =  - 0.348, P = 0.022; longitudinal: r =  - 0.333, P = 0.029), cTNT (r =  - 0.333, P = 0.029) and NT-proBNP (r =  - 0.440, P = 0.003). In this cohort with stenotic BAV and preserved EF, mid-AA distensibility is found significantly associated with LV remolding, which encouraging to better understand mechanism of ventricular vascular coupling.

Impact of machine-learning-based coronary computed tomography angiography-derived fractional flow reserve on decision-making in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate feasibility and diagnostic performance of coronary CT angiography (CCTA)-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) for detection of significant coronary artery disease (CAD) and decision-making in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) to potentially avoid additional pre-TAVR invasive coronary angiography (ICA).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with severe AS (n = 95, 78.6 ± 8.8 years, 53% female) undergoing pre-procedural TAVR-CT followed by ICA with quantitative coronary angiography were retrospectively analyzed. CCTA datasets were evaluated using CAD Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) classification. CT-FFR measurements were computed using an on-site machine-learning algorithm. A combined algorithm was developed for decision-making to determine if ICA is needed based on pre-TAVR CCTA: [1] all patients with CAD-RADS ≥ 4 are referred for ICA; [2] patients with CAD-RADS 2 and 3 are evaluated utilizing CT-FFR and sent to ICA if CT-FFR ≤ 0.80; [3] patients with CAD-RADS < 2 or CAD-RADS 2-3 and normal CT-FFR are not referred for ICA.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (13%) had significant CAD (≥ 70% stenosis) on ICA and were treated with PCI. Twenty-eight patients (30%) showed CT-FFR ≤ 0.80 and 24 (86%) of those were reported to have a maximum stenosis ≥ 50% during ICA. Using the proposed algorithm, significant CAD could be identified with a sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value of 100%, 78%, 40%, and 100%, respectively, potentially decreasing the number of necessary ICAs by 65 (68%).

CONCLUSION

Combination of CT-FFR and CAD-RADS is able to identify significant CAD pre-TAVR and bears potential to significantly reduce the number of needed ICAs.

KEY POINTS

• Coronary CT angiography-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) using machine learning together with the CAD Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) classification safely identifies significant coronary artery disease based on quantitative coronary angiography in patients prior to transcatheter aortic valve replacement. • The combination of CT-FFR and CAD-RADS enables decision-making and bears the potential to significantly reduce the number of needed invasive coronary angiographies.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation for Pure Native Aortic Regurgitation: The Last Frontier

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) to treat patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis is a well-established procedure. Even though cases series have reported TAVI use in high-risk patients with pure native aortic regurgitation, this is still considered an off-label intervention, especially when the aortic annulus dimensions are beyond the recommended by prosthesis manufacturers. Herein, we provide an updated review regarding the transcatheter treatment of pure native aortic regurgitation and illustrate this issue by presenting a clinical case of a patient with pure aortic regurgitation and a large aortic annulus who received a self-expanding non-dedicated transcatheter heart valve.

Atrial Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation: Novel Definition and Impact on Prognosis

BACKGROUND

Atrial functional tricuspid regurgitation (atrial TR) has received growing recognition as a TR entity with a distinct cause owing to its independence from valvular tethering as the predominant mechanism underlying TR. However, characterization of atrial TR varies, and a universal definition is lacking.

METHODS

In total, 651 patients with significant functional TR were analyzed, including 438 conservatively treated individuals and 213 patients who received transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR). Based on a clustering approach, we defined atrial TR as tricuspid valve (TV) tenting height ≤10 mm, midventricular right ventricular diameter ≤38 mm, and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50%.

RESULTS

Patients with atrial TR were more often females, had higher right ventricular fractional area change, higher left ventricular ejection fraction, and lower LV end-diastolic diameter, TV tenting area and height, lower right ventricular and tricuspid annular size, enlarged, but lower right atrial area and lower TV effective regurgitant orifice area (all P<0.05). Patients with atrial TR had significantly better long-term survival than non-atrial TR in the conservatively treated TR cohort (P<0.01, n=438). Atrial TR was independently associated with a lower rate of the combined end point of mortality and heart failure hospitalization at 1-year follow-up in the TTVR cohort (hazard ratio, 0.39; P<0.05, n=213). TR degree was significantly reduced after TTVR in non-atrial and atrial TR (P<0.01). Functional parameters significantly improved following TTVR independent of TR cause (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

An echocardiography-based atrial TR definition is associated with prognostic relevance in patients with functional TR in conservatively treated TR and after TTVR.

Role of computed tomography in transcatheter replacement of 'other valves': a comprehensive review of preprocedural imaging

Transcatheter procedures for heart valve repair or replacement represent a valid alternative for treating patients who are inoperable or at a high risk for open-heart surgery. The transcatheter approach has become predominant over surgical intervention for aortic valve disease, but it is also increasingly utilized for diseases of the 'other valves', that is the mitral and, to a lesser extent, tricuspid and pulmonary valve. Preprocedural imaging is essential for planning the transcatheter intervention and computed tomography has become the main imaging modality by providing information that can guide the type of treatment and choice of device as well as predict outcome and prevent complications. In particular, preprocedural computed tomography is useful for providing anatomic details and simulating the effects of device implantation using 3D models. Transcatheter mitral valve replacement is indicated for the treatment of mitral regurgitation, either primary or secondary, and computed tomography is crucial for the success of the procedure. It allows evaluating the mitral valve apparatus, the surrounding structures and the left heart chambers, identifying the best access route and the landing zone and myocardial shelf, and predicting obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract, which is the most frequent postprocedural complication. Tricuspid valve regurgitation with or without stenosis and pulmonary valve stenosis and regurgitation can also be treated using a transcatheter approach. Computer tomography provides information on the tricuspid and pulmonary valve apparatus, the structures that are spatially related to it and may be affected by the procedure, the right heart chambers and the right ventricular outflow tract.

Deep sedation vs. general anesthesia for transcatheter tricuspid valve repair

Background

Transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVr) is routinely performed under general anesthesia (GA). This study aimed to investigate whether TTVr procedures can be performed effectively and safely without GA but using deep sedation (DS).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 104 patients from three centers who underwent TTVr between 2020 and 2021. The primary performance endpoints were technical success and severity of TR assessed at the time of discharge. The safety outcome was a composite of in-hospital complications, including occurrence of death, conversion to surgery, major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, major vascular complications, or occurrence of pneumonia.

Results

Sixty-four procedures were performed in GA and 40 procedures were performed in DS. The groups did not differ in age, EuroScore II, TR severity, ventricular function, or hemodynamic parameters. Technical success was achieved in 92.5% of the patients in the DS group and in 93.6% of the patients in the GA group (p = 0.805). In none of the patients intraprocedural conversion from DS to GA was required. There was no difference in total duration of the procedure, and number of devices implanted. The degree of TR was ≤2+ in 77.5% of the patients in the DS group and in 74.2% of the patients in the GA group (p = 0.705). The composite safety endpoint did not differ between the groups (2.5 vs. 6.3%, p = 0.384). The total duration of hospital stay was shorter in patients who underwent TTVr in DS compared to those who underwent TTVr in GA (6 [5, 9] days vs. 8 [6, 11] days; p = 0.011).

Conclusion

Performing TTVr in DS was effective with similar procedural results, and was safe with similar low complication rates compared to GA.

The Evolution of Pulmonary Hypertension and Its Prognostic Implications Post-TAVI-Single Center Experience

Background and Objectives: Since the first transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure was performed in 2002, advances in technology and refinement of the method have led to its widespread use in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) and high surgical risk. We aim to identify the impact of TAVI on the clinical and functional status of patients with severe AS at the one-month follow-up and to identify potential predictors associated with the evolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in this category of patients. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study which included 86 patients diagnosed with severe AS undergoing TAVI treatment. We analyzed demographics, clinical and echocardiographic parameters associated with AS and PH both at enrolment and at the 30-day follow-up. Results: In our study, the decrease of EUROSCORE II score (p < 0.001), improvement of angina (p < 0.001) and fatigue (p < 0.001) as clinical benefits as well as a reduction in NYHA functional class in patients with heart failure (p < 0.001) are prognostic predictors with statistical value. Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy (p = 0.001), increase in the left ventricle ejection fraction (p = 0.007) and improvement of diastolic dysfunction (p < 0.001) are echocardiographic parameters with a prognostic role in patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI. The pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT) (p < 0.001), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (p = 0.020), pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) (p < 0.001) and the TAPSE/PASP ratio (p < 0.001) are statistically significant echocardiographic parameters in our study that assess both PH and its associated prognosis in patients undergoing TAVI. Conclusions: PAAT, TAPSE, PASP and the TAPSE/PASP ratio are independent predictors that allow the assessment of PH and its prognostic implications post-TAVI.

Severe Stenosis of Mitral Bioprosthetic Valve Thrombosis in a Patient with HCV-Related Cirrhosis and Duodenal Variceal Bleeding: The Deadly Triad

Bioprosthetic valve thrombosis (BPVT) is considered a relatively rare but life-threatening clinical entity. Thus, there is the need of high clinical suspicion in order to make a timely diagnosis and related appropriate therapeutic interventions. In this regard, the management of BPVT is high risk, whatever the option taken (surgery and/or systemic fibrinolysis). The presence of severe comorbidities—as decompensated cirrhosis—further complicates the clinical decision-making process, calling for a patient-tailored integrated multidisciplinary approach. We report a challenging case of a 45-year-old patient with mitral bioprosthetic valve thrombosis and hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis complicated by active duodenal variceal bleeding.

Contribution of Oxidative Stress (OS) in Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD): From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Targets

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a major cause of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, with increased prevalence and incidence. The underlying mechanisms behind CAVD are complex, and are mainly illustrated by inflammation, mechanical stress (which induces prolonged aortic valve endothelial dysfunction), increased oxidative stress (OS) (which trigger fibrosis), and calcification of valve leaflets. To date, besides aortic valve replacement, there are no specific pharmacological treatments for CAVD. In this review, we describe the mechanisms behind aortic valvular disease, the involvement of OS as a fundamental element in disease progression with predilection in AS, and its two most frequent etiologies (calcific aortic valve disease and bicuspid aortic valve); moreover, we highlight the potential of OS as a future therapeutic target.

Transthoracic echocardiography for arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse: Phenotypic characterization as first step

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is the most frequent valvulopathy with a prevalence of 1.2%-2.4% in general population and it is characterized by a benign course. Although it can be associated with some complications, ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) as ultimate expressions, are the most worrying. The estimated risk of SCD in MVP is between 0.2% and 1.9% per year including both MVP patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction due to severe MR and MVP patients without significant MR. The latter ones constitute a particular phenotype called "malignant MVP" characterized by bileaflet myxomatous prolapse, ECG repolarization abnormalities and complex VAs (c-VAs) with polymorphic/right bundle branch block morphology (RBBB) and LV fibrosis of the papillary muscles (PMs) and inferobasal wall secondary to mechanical stretching visualized as late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) areas by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). In MVP, the first diagnostic approach is transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) that defines the presence of mitral annular disjunction (MAD) which seems to be associated with "arrhythmic MVP" (AMVP). From an ECG point of view, AMVP is characterized by frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) arising from one or both PMs, fascicular tissue, and outflow tract, as well as by T-wave inversion in the inferolateral leads. The aim of the present paper is to describe TTE red flags that could identify MVP patients at high risk to develop complex arrhythmias as supported by the corresponding findings of LGE-CMR and anatomy studies. TTE could be a co-partner in phenotyping high-risk arrhythmic MVP patients.

Aortic Viscous Energy Loss for Assessment of Valve-related Hemodynamics in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis

Purpose

To investigate whether functional assessment of aberrant flow patterns by viscous energy loss (E′L ) using four-dimensional (4D) flow MRI could determine aortic stenosis (AS) severity in accordance with transvalvular energy loss and aid in surgical decision-making in asymptomatic patients with severe AS.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective, single-center study, E′L was measured in the thoracic aorta of 74 consecutive asymptomatic patients with severe AS and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction who presented between January 2015 and December 2017, and 23 healthy volunteers using 4D flow MRI. Transvalvular energy loss was assessed based on the energy loss index (ELI) measured using Doppler echocardiography. The association between E′L and AS-related events including aortic valve replacement was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and multivariable Cox regression analysis.

Results

Among 74 asymptomatic patients with severe AS (mean age, 60 years ± 9 [SD]; 43 men; 56 with bicuspid aortic valve), 33 experienced AS-related events during a median follow-up of 42 months (IQR, 30–53 months). Altered flow patterns in severe AS resulted in a sevenfold increase in peak systolic E′L in the ascending aorta compared with controls (13.9 mW ± 3.4 vs 1.80 mW ± 0.44; P < .001). Peak systolic E′L in the ascending aorta was independently associated with the ELI (standardized β, −0.52; P < .001) and showed better discrimination for AS-related events (area under the curve, 0.83; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.93; P < .001) than conventional echocardiographic parameters. After adjustment for confounding variables, peak systolic E′L in the ascending aorta was associated with a significant increase in AS-related events (P < .001 for adjusted hazard ratio).

Conclusion

Changes in AS-mediated poststenotic three-dimensional outflow patterns can be quantified by 4D flow MRI-derived energetic markers to aid in the risk stratification and clinical management of asymptomatic patients with severe AS.

Keywords: Aortic Stenosis, 4D Flow MRI, Flow Energetics, Vascular, Aorta, Aortic Valve, MR Angiography

Supplemental material is available for this article.

© RSNA, 2022

Temporal Trends of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation over 12 Years: A High-Volume Single-Center Experience

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become the mainstay of treatment for patients with severe AS. Since the TAVR population and patients’ outcomes have dramatically changed over the last decade, updated data regarding contemporary practice and trends are pertinent to clinical use. We performed a retrospective observational analysis of consecutive patient who underwent TAVR for symptomatic severe AS between the years 2009 and 2021 in a single high-volume center. Patients were divided into four equal time groups based on the procedure date (2009−2012, 2013−2015, 2016−2018 and 2019−2021). A total of 1988 patients were included in this study and divided into four groups, with 321, 482, 565 and 620 patients in groups 1−4, respectively. Significant trends were seen in baseline characteristics of a few parameters, including lower age, lower procedural risk and reduced rates of comorbidity (p for trend < 0.0001 for all factors mentioned above). A shift was seen in the procedural technique with lower balloon pre-dilatation and higher device success rates (p for trend < 0.0001). The post-procedural period changed over the years with fewer pacemaker placements (p < 0.0001) and reduced rates of AKI and post-procedural bleed (p value 0.02 and <0.0001, respectively). Furthermore, overall hospital stay was shortened from 7 ± 7.1 days to 2.3 ± 1.7 (p < 0.0001). Finally, patient follow up revealed reduced mortality rates at 30 days (p < 0.0001) and 1 year (p = 0.013). Multivariate regression revealed that a late implantation date was an independent protector from mortality (HR 0.84, p = 0.002). In conclusion, our study demonstrated that TAVR has become a safer practice over the years with reduced rates of morbidity and mortality.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of periprocedural bridging for patients with mechanical heart valves undergoing non-cardiac interventions

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of perioperative bridging in patients with mechanical heart valves undergoing non-cardiac interventions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic research using Medline, EMBASE, and Google Scholar was implemented corresponding to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. Data from the eligible studies were obtained and meta-analyzed. Primary endpoints included major bleeding and thromboembolism. Secondary endpoints included minor bleeding, overall mortality, and overall bleeding (major and minor bleeding). We conducted a comparative analysis between bridging and non-bridging along with a sensitivity analysis for patients undergoing major and minor operations.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies comprised of 2305 patients (2453 bridging episodes) were included. Pooled major bleeding and thromboembolism rates were 3.85 % (95 % CI: 2.12-5.98) (I² = 69 %, p < 0.01) and 0.39 % (95 % CI: 0.00-1.41) (I² = 64 %, p < 0.01). Bridging versus non-bridging major bleeding, thromboembolism, and overall bleeding risk ratios (RR) were RR 2.05 (95 % CI: 0.98-4.28) (I² = 10 %, p = 0.34), RR 1.63 (95 % CI: 0.41-6.50) (I² = 0 %, p = 0.63) and RR 1.79 (95 % CI: 1.17-2.72) (I² = 55 %, p = 0.09) respectively. Subgroup analysis displayed major and minor operation thromboembolism and overall bleeding rates of 3.09 % (95 % CI: 0.78-6.43) (I² = 0 %, p = 0.89) versus 0.14 % (95 % CI: 0.00-1.40) (I² = 0 %, p = 0.93), test for subgroup differences (p < 0.01) and 17.37 % (95 % CI: 11.73-23.77) (I² = 0 %, p = 0.61) versus 28.18 % (95 % CI: 22.80-33.88) (I² = 0 %, p = 0.47), test for subgroup differences (p = 0.01) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis suggests that bridging may potentially put patients at an increased bleeding risk regarding overall bleeding rates, while failing to provide statistically significant benefits concerning thromboembolism and overall mortality compared to non-bridging. Limitations such as the mixed patient population don't allow for definite conclusions to be drawn warrantying further research through randomized controlled trials.

The Effect of Coronary Lesion Complexity and Preprocedural Revascularization on 5-Year Outcomes After TAVR

BACKGROUND

Aortic stenosis and coronary artery disease (CAD) frequently coincide. However, the management of coexisting CAD in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains controversial.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to determine whether the presence of CAD, its complexity, and angiography-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are associated with outcomes after TAVR.

METHODS

All patients undergoing TAVR at a tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2020 were included in a prospective observational study. Baseline SYNTAX (Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) score (SS) and, whenever applicable, a residual SS after PCI were calculated. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine the effect of CAD, stratified according to complexity, and PCI on 5-year outcomes.

RESULTS

In 604 patients, the presence of CAD and its complexity were significantly associated with worse 5-year survival (SS 0: 67.9% vs SS 1-22: 56.1% vs SS >22: 53.0%; log-rank P = 0.027) and increased cardiovascular mortality (SS 0: 15.1% vs SS 1-22: 24.0% vs SS >22: 27.8%; log-rank P = 0.024) after TAVR. Having noncomplex CAD (SS 1-22) was an independent predictor for increased all-cause mortality (HR: 1.43; P = 0.046), while complex CAD (SS >22) increased cardiovascular mortality significantly (HR: 1.84; P = 0.041). Angiography-guided PCI or completeness of revascularization was not associated with different outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of CAD and its anatomical complexity in patients undergoing TAVR are associated with significantly worse 5-year outcomes. However, angiography-guided PCI did not improve outcomes, highlighting the need for further research into physiology-guided PCI.

Valvular Heart Disease following Anthracycline Therapy-Is It Time to Look beyond Ejection Fraction?

The association between anthracycline (ANT) and left ventricle (LV) dysfunction is well known; however, data regarding its direct effect on cardiac valve function is limited. We aimed to evaluate how ANT therapy affected valvular function in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Data were prospectively collected as part of the Israel Cardio-Oncology Registry (ICOR). Patients underwent echocardiography exams at baseline (T1), during ANT therapy (T2), and after completion within 3 months (T3) and 6 months (T4). A total of 141 female patients were included, with a mean age of 51 ± 12 years. From T1 to T4, we observed a significant deterioration in LV ejection fraction (60.2 ± 1.5 to 59.2 ± 2.7%, p = 0.0004) and LV global longitudinal strain (−21.6 (−20.0−−23.0) to −20.0 (−19.1−−21.1)%, p < 0.0001)), and an increase in LV end-systolic diameter (25 (22−27) to 27 (24−30) mm, p < 0.0001). We observed a significant increase in the incidence of new mitral regurgitation (MR) development (4 to 19%, p < 0.0001), worsening with concomitant trastuzumab therapy (6% to 31%, p = 0.003), and a trend for tricuspid regurgitation development (4% to 8%, p = 0.19). ANT therapy is associated with the development of a new valvular disease, mainly MR, which may imply the need for a valvular focus in the monitoring of cancer patients.

Percutaneous Closure of Mitral Paravalvular Leak: Long-Term Results in a Single-Center Experience

Background: Paravalvular leak occurs in 5–17% of patients following surgical valve replacement, more often in mitral position. The prognosis without treatment is poor. Percutaneous device closure represents an alternative to repeat surgery. The objective of this work is to evaluate the medium and long-term results in the percutaneous closure of PVL in mitral prosthesis. Methods: This observational study is based on a retrospective registry including consecutive mitral PVL cases undergoing percutaneous closure at a single tertiary-care center from April 2010 to December 2020. The safety and efficacy results of the procedure, at 90 days and in the long term, were analyzed. Also, predictors of procedure failure and long-term events were identified. Results: A total of 128 consecutive mitral paravalvular leak closure procedures were included. Technical success was achieved in 115 (89.8%) procedures. The presence of multiple PVLs was the sole factor that independently predicted procedural failure. Median follow-up of our sample was 41.8 months (mean 47.7 ± 35.7 months). Underlying hemolytic anemia as the indication for PVL closure, a recent admission for decompensated HF, and lack of improvement in functional class emerged as consistent predictors of MACE and death during long-term follow-up, while lack of procedural success during the first PVL procedure and chronic kidney disease were also associated with MACE during follow-up. Conclusions: Percutaneous mitral PVL closure displayed high technical and procedural success rates, with an acceptable safety profile, in a high-risk population. Percutaneous mitral PVL closure achieved an improvement in short- and long-term functional class and a reduction of hemolysis in the vast majority of patients. In addition, long-term survival in our study was good, in particular for patients undergoing successful PVL closure procedures.

A time-efficient protocol for transthoracic echocardiography during transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation: early identification and effective management of intraprocedural complications

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) under conscious sedation is the most widely used method of implantation. Echocardiography is used to detect complications and to assess the implantation result. The aim of this paper is to provide a time-efficient protocol when transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is used to guide TAVI procedures.

Comparison of cusp-overlap projection and standard three-cusp coplanar view during self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) is a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Recently, the cusp-overlap projection (COP) technique was thought to be a feasible method to reduce PPI risk. However, the evidence is still relatively scarce. Therefore, this meta-analysis was performed to compare COP and standard three-cusp coplanar (TCC) projection technique.

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE databases were systematically searched for relevant literature published from the inception (EMBASE from 1974 and PubMed from 1966) to 16 April 2022, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The primary outcome of interest was post-operative (including in-hospital and 30-day) PPI.

Results

Total of 3,647 subjects from 11 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Of those, 1,453 underwent self-expanding TAVR using COP and 2,194 using TCC technique. In a pooled analysis, the cumulative PPI incidence was 9.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 6.9-11.7%] and 18.9% (95% CI: 15.5-22.3%) in the COP group and TCC group, respectively. The application of the COP technique was associated with a significant PPI risk reduction (I2 = 40.3% and heterogeneity Chi-square p = 0.070, random-effects OR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.36-0.66, p < 0.001). A higher implantation depth was achieved in the COP group compared with the TCC group [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.324, 95% CI: (-0.469, -0.180)]. There was no significant difference between the two groups in second valve implantation, prosthesis pop-out, fluoroscopic time, post-operative left bundle branch block, mortality, stroke, moderate/severe paravalvular leakage, mean gradient, and length of hospital stay. However, radiation doses were higher in the COP group [SMD = 0.394, 95% CI: (0.216, 0.572), p < 0.001].

Conclusion

In self-expanding TAVR, the application of the cusp overlap projection technique was associated with a lower risk of PPI compared with the standard TCC technique.

Systematic review registration

[https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-4-0092/], identifier [INPLASY202240092].

Mitral regurgitation management: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines and recommendations

Multiple guidelines exist for the diagnosis and management of mitral regurgitation (MR), the second most common valvular heart disease in high-income countries, with recommendations that do not always match. We systematically reviewed guidelines on diagnosis and management of MR, highlighting similarities and differences to guide clinical decision-making. We searched national and international guidelines in MEDLINE and EMBASE (1 June 2010 to 1 September 2021), the Guidelines International Network, National Guideline Clearinghouse, National Library for Health Guidelines Finder, Canadian Medical Association Clinical Practice Guidelines Infobase, and websites of relevant organizations. Two reviewers independently screened the abstracts and identified articles of interest. Guidelines that were rigorously developed (as assessed with the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument) were retained for analysis. Five guidelines were retained. There was consensus on a multidisciplinary approach from the heart team and for the definition and grading of severe primary MR. There was general agreement on the thresholds for intervention in symptomatic and asymptomatic primary MR; however, discrepancies were present. There was agreement on optimization of medical therapy in severe secondary MR and intervention in patients symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy, but no consensus on the choice of intervention (surgical repair/replacement vs. transcatheter approach). Cut-offs for high-risk intervention in MR, risk stratification of progressive MR, and guidance on mixed valvular disease were sparse.

Percutaneous Atrio-Ventricular Valve Interventions: Contemporary Advances and Remaining Challenges

These are exciting exploratory times for structural/valvular heart interventions [...].

Sequential multidisciplinary minimally invasive therapeutic strategy for heart failure caused by four diseases: A case report

BACKGROUND

The coexistence with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), mitral valve prolapse (MVP), atrial fibrillation (AF) and hyperthyroidism is extremely rare and complex. The optimal therapeutic strategy is difficult to develop.

CASE SUMMARY

A 27-year-old female with PDA, MVP, AF and hyperthyroidism presented with severe dyspnea. Given that a one-stage operation for PDA, MVP and AF is high risk, we preferred a sequential multidisciplinary minimally invasive therapeutic strategy. First, PDA transcatheter closure was performed. Hyperthyroidism and heart failure were simultaneously controlled via medical treatment. Video-assisted thoracoscopic mitral valve repair and left atrial appendage occlusion were performed when heart failure was controlled. Under this therapeutic strategy, the patient’s sinus rhythm was restored and maintained. Two years after the treatment, the symptoms of heart failure were relieved, and the enlarged heart was reversed.

CONCLUSION

Sequential multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies, which take advantage of both internal medicine and surgical approaches, might be reasonable for this type of disease.

Prevalence and Prognostic Implications of Discordant Grading and Flow-Gradient Patterns in Moderate Aortic Stenosis

BACKGROUND

The prognostic implications of discordant grading in severe aortic stenosis (AS) are well known. However, the prevalence of different flow-gradient patterns and their prognostic implications in moderate AS are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence and prognostic implications of different flow-gradient patterns in patients with moderate AS.

METHODS

Patients with moderate AS (aortic valve area >1.0 and ≤1.5 cm²) were identified and divided in 4 groups based on transvalvular mean gradient (MG), stroke volume index (SVi), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): concordant moderate AS (MG ≥20 mm Hg) and discordant moderate AS including 3 subgroups: normal-flow, low-gradient moderate AS (MG <20 mm Hg, SVi ≥35 mL/m², and LVEF ≥50%); "paradoxical" low-flow, low-gradient moderate AS (MG <20 mm Hg, SVi <35 mL/m², and LVEF ≥50%) and "classical" low-flow, low-gradient moderate AS (MG <20 mm Hg and LVEF <50%). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Of 1,974 patients (age 73 ± 10 years, 51% men) with moderate AS, 788 (40%) had discordant grading, and these patients showed significantly higher mortality rates than patients with concordant moderate AS (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, "paradoxical" low-flow, low-gradient (HR: 1.458; 95% CI: 1.072-1.983; P = 0.014) and "classical" low-flow, low-gradient (HR: 1.710; 95% CI: 1.270-2.303; P < 0.001) patterns but not the normal-flow, low-gradient moderate AS pattern were independently associated with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Discordant grading is frequently (40%) observed in patients with moderate AS. Low-flow, low-gradient patterns account for an important proportion of the discordant cases and are associated with increased mortality. These findings underline the need for better phenotyping patients with discordant moderate AS.

Management of Patients With Severe Mitral Annular Calcification: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is a common and challenging pathologic condition, especially in the context of an aging society. Surgical mitral valve intervention in patients with MAC is difficult, with varying approaches to the calcified annular anatomy, and the advent of transcatheter valve interventions has provided additional treatment options. Advanced imaging provides the foundation for heart team discussions and management decisions concerning individual patients. This review focuses on the prognosis of, preoperative planning for, and management strategies for patients with MAC.

3D-Printing to Plan Complex Transcatheter Paravalvular Leaks Closure

Background: Percutaneous closure of paravalvular leak (PVL) has emerged as an alternative to surgical management in selected cases. Achieving complete PVL occlusion, while respecting prosthesis function remains challenging. A multimodal imaging analysis of PVL morphology before and during the procedure is mandatory to select an appropriate device. We aim to explore the additional value of 3D printing in predicting device related adverse events including mechanical valve leaflet blockade, risk of device embolization and residual shunting. Methods: From the FFPP registries (NCT05089136 and NCT05117359), we included 11 transcatheter PVL closure procedures from three centers for which 3D printed models were produced. Cardiac CT was used for segmentation for 3D printed models (3D-heartmodeling, Caissargues, France). Technology used a laser to fuse very fine powders (TPU Thermoplastic polyurethane) into a final part-laser sintering technology (SLS) with an adapted elasticity. A simulation on 3D printed model was performed using a set of occluders. Results: PVLs were located around aortic prostheses in six cases, mitral prostheses in four cases and tricuspid ring in one case. The device chosen during the simulation on the 3D printed model matched the one implanted in eight cases. In the three other cases, a similar device type was chosen during the procedures but with a different size. A risk of prosthesis leaflet blockade was identified on 3D printed models in four cases. During the procedure, the occluder was removed before release in one case. In another case the device was successfully repositioned and released. In two patients, leaflet impingement was observed post-operatively and surgical device removal had to be performed. Conclusion: In a case-series of complex transcatheter PVL closure procedures, hands-on simulation testing on 3D printed models proved its usefulness to plan and facilitate these challenging procedures.

Edoxaban Versus Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for Leaflet Thrombosis and Cerebral Thromboembolism After TAVR: The ADAPT-TAVR Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

It is unknown whether the direct oral anticoagulant edoxaban can reduce leaflet thrombosis and the accompanying cerebral thromboembolic risk after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. In addition, the causal relationship of subclinical leaflet thrombosis with cerebral thromboembolism and neurological or neurocognitive dysfunction remains unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter, open-label randomized trial comparing edoxaban with dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin plus clopidogrel) in patients who had undergone successful transcatheter aortic valve replacement and did not have an indication for anticoagulation. The primary end point was an incidence of leaflet thrombosis on 4-dimensional computed tomography at 6 months. Key secondary end points were the number and volume of new cerebral lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging and the serial changes of neurological and neurocognitive function between 6 months and immediately after transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

RESULTS

A total of 229 patients were included in the final intention-to-treat population. There was a trend toward a lower incidence of leaflet thrombosis in the edoxaban group compared with the dual antiplatelet therapy group (9.8% versus 18.4%; absolute difference, -8.5% [95% CI, -17.8% to 0.8%]; P=0.076). The percentage of patients with new cerebral lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (edoxaban versus dual antiplatelet therapy, 25.0% versus 20.2%; difference, 4.8%; 95% CI, -6.4% to 16.0%) and median total new lesion number and volume were not different between the 2 groups. In addition, the percentages of patients with worsening of neurological and neurocognitive function were not different between the groups. The incidence of any or major bleeding events was not different between the 2 groups. We found no significant association between the presence or extent of leaflet thrombosis with new cerebral lesions and a change of neurological or neurocognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients without an indication for long-term anticoagulation after successful transcatheter aortic valve replacement, the incidence of leaflet thrombosis was numerically lower with edoxaban than with dual antiplatelet therapy, but this was not statistically significant. The effects on new cerebral thromboembolism and neurological or neurocognitive function were also not different between the 2 groups. Because the study was underpowered, the results should be considered hypothesis generating, highlighting the need for further research.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov. Unique identifier: NCT03284827.

Acute valvular emergencies

Acute valvular emergencies represent an important cause of cardiogenic shock. However, their clinical presentation and initial diagnostic testing are often non-specific, resulting in delayed diagnosis. Moreover, metabolic disarray or haemodynamic instability may result in too great a risk for emergent surgery. This review will focus on the aetiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and treatment options for patients presenting with native acute left-sided valvular emergencies. In addition to surgery, options for medical therapy, mechanical circulatory support, and novel percutaneous interventions are discussed.

Rationale, Definitions, Techniques, and Outcomes of Commissural Alignment in TAVR: From the ALIGN-TAVR Consortium

Given the expanding indications of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in younger patients with longer life expectancies, the ability to perform postprocedural coronary access represents a priority in their lifetime management. A growing body of evidence suggests that commissural (and perhaps coronary) alignment in TAVR impacts coronary access and valve hemodynamics as well as coronary flow and access after redo-TAVR. Recent studies have provided modified delivery system insertion and rotation techniques to obtain commissural alignment with available transcatheter heart valve devices. Moreover, patient-specific preprocedural planning and postprocedural imaging tools have been developed to facilitate and evaluate commissural alignment. Future efforts should aim to refine transcatheter heart valve and delivery system designs to make neocommissural alignment easier and more reproducible. The aim of this review is to present an in-depth insight of commissural alignment in TAVR, including its rationale, standardized definitions, technical steps, outcomes, and future directions.

Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Thrombosis and Literature Review

An 83-year-old gentleman with a history of 23-mm Hancock-II-bioprosthetic aortic valve (BAV) replacement ten-years prior presented with symptoms of dyspnea and lower extremity edema. During the preceding seven-years, he had been noted to have asymptomatic increased mean transvalvular gradients (MG; 36–50 mmHg) felt to be due to either early bioprosthetic degeneration, pannus formation, or patient–prosthesis mismatch. An echocardiogram at the time of symptom development demonstrated significant flow acceleration through the aortic valve, mild regurgitation, and severely increased MG (48 mmHg) with prolonged acceleration time (AT, 140 msec). A trial of warfarin anticoagulation resulted in dramatic improvement after only 6 weeks with laminar flow through the AV, near-total resolution of regurgitation, and a decrease in MG to 14 mmHg and AT to 114 msec. These findings strongly suggest that BAV thrombosis was the predominant mechanism responsible for the longstanding high MG. Our case highlights that BAV thrombosis should be considered in the differential of elevated gradients regardless of the age of prosthesis, and that a trial of warfarin anticoagulation may be beneficial even if elevated gradients have been present for a prolonged period. Valvular gradients are often abnormal long before a formal diagnosis; however, these may reverse quickly with anticoagulation therapy.

The Role of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy for the Management of Functional Mitral Regurgitation

Valve leaflets and chordae structurally normal characterize functional mitral regurgitation (FMR), which in heart failure (HF) setting results from an imbalance between closing and tethering forces secondary to alterations in the left ventricle (LV) and left atrium geometry. In this context, FMR impacts the quality of life and increases mortality. Despite multiple medical and surgical attempts to treat FMR, to date, there is no univocal treatment for many patients. The pathophysiology of FMR is highly complex and involves several underlying mechanisms. Left ventricle dyssynchrony may contribute to FMR onset and worsening and represents an important target for FMR management. In this article, we discuss the mechanisms of FMR and review the potential therapeutic role of CRT, providing a comprehensive review of the available data coming from clinical studies and trials.

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement for severe aortic stenosis with concomitant left ventricular diverticulum: a case report

Background

Left ventricular diverticulum (LVD) is a rare cardiac malformation in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is not recommended due to the risk of diverticulum injury. However, for patients considered inoperable or at high surgical risk, TAVR might be the only treatment option. The safety and feasibility of TAVR for severe AS with concomitant LVD are still unclear.

Case summary

An 80-year-old Asian woman complaining of shortness of breath was admitted to our hospital, whose echocardiogram showed calcified severe AS and a diverticulum in the left ventricular apex. A transfemoral 26 mm Venus-A prosthetic aortic valve was successfully implanted. Pre- and post-procedural cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed a remarkable volume reduction of LVD.

Discussion

Transfemoral TAVR was not preferred because the straight-tip hydrophilic wire and catheter tip could injure the fragile diverticulum wall. If we could avoid the injury of the diverticulum, TAVR would be a good option for patients at high surgical risk.

Focus on Diagnosis and Prognosis to Guide Timing of Intervention in Valvular Heart Disease

Purpose of Review

The present article reviews the role of multimodality imaging to improve risk stratification and timing of intervention in patients with valvular heart disease (VHD), and summarizes the latest developments in transcatheter valve interventions.

Recent Findings

Growing evidence suggests that intervention at an earlier stage may improve outcomes of patients with significant VHD. Multimodality imaging, including strain imaging and tissue characterization with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, has the ability to identify early markers of myocardial damage and can help to optimize the timing of intervention. Transcatheter interventions play an increasing role in the treatment of patients who remain at high surgical risk or present at a late stage of their disease.

Summary

Multimodality imaging identifies markers of cardiac damage at an early stage in the development of VHD. Together with technological innovations in the field of percutaneous valvular devices, these developments have the potential to improve current management and outcomes of patients with significant VHD.

Standardized Definitions for Bioprosthetic Valve Dysfunction Following Aortic or Mitral Valve Replacement: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Bioprosthetic valve dysfunction (BVD) and bioprosthetic valve failure (BVF) may be caused by structural or nonstructural valve dysfunction. Both surgical and transcatheter bioprosthetic valves have limited durability because of structural valve deterioration. The main objective of this summary of experts participating in a virtual workshop was to propose standardized definitions for nonstructural and structural BVD and BVF following aortic or mitral biological valve replacement with the goal of facilitating research reporting and implementation of these terms in clinical practice. Definitions of structural BVF, based on valve reintervention or death, underestimate the true incidence of BVF. However, definitions solely based on the presence of high transprosthetic gradient at a given echocardiogram during follow-up overestimate the incidence of structural BVD and BVF. Definitions of aortic or mitral structural BVD must therefore include the confirmation by imaging of permanent structural changes to the leaflets alongside evidence of deterioration in valve hemodynamic function at echocardiography follow-up.

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion in a frail, high-risk, octogenarian patient population, after having undergone transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) represents an alternative stroke prevention method in patients with atrial fibrillation and an increased bleeding risk, chronic kidney disease or contraindications to oral anticoagulants. Aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of percutaneous LAAO in high-risk, frail patients having undergone transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

Thirty-one patients having undergone TAVI and scheduled for LAAO were prospectively included in our study.

RESULTS

Implantation was successful in 29 of 31 cases (93.5%).There were no patients that developed a major acute cardiovascular event, stroke, or device dislocation/embolization. There was a single case of major bleeding (3.2%) and 3 cases of acute kidney injury (9.7%). At 3 months, no patients experienced a stroke, one patient had a device-related thrombus (3.4%), one patient showed a significant peri-device leak, and one patient had a persistent iatrogenic atrial septal defect.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that percutaneous LAAO may represent a feasible alternative strategy for stroke prevention, that can be safely performed in high-risk, multimorbid patients with high bleeding risk or contraindications to oral anticoagulation.

Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Hemodynamics: Definitions, Outcomes, and Evidence Gaps: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

A virtual workshop was organized by the Heart Valve Collaboratory to identify areas of expert consensus, areas of disagreement, and evidence gaps related to bioprosthetic aortic valve hemodynamics. Impaired functional performance of bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement is associated with adverse patient outcomes; however, this assessment is complicated by the lack of standardization for labelling, definitions, and measurement techniques, both after surgical and transcatheter valve replacement. Echocardiography remains the standard assessment methodology because of its ease of performance, widespread availability, ability to do serial measurements over time, and correlation with outcomes. Management of a high gradient after replacement requires integration of the patient's clinical status, physical examination, and multimodality imaging in addition to shared patient decisions regarding treatment options. Future priorities that are underway include efforts to standardize prosthesis sizing and labelling for both surgical and transcatheter valves as well as trials to characterize the consequences of adverse hemodynamics.

Natural Language Processing to Improve Prediction of Incident Atrial Fibrillation Using Electronic Health Records

Background Models predicting atrial fibrillation (AF) risk, such as Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology AF (CHARGE-AF), have not performed as well in electronic health records. Natural language processing (NLP) may improve models by using narrative electronic health record text. Methods and Results From a primary care network, we included patients aged ≥65 years with visits between 2003 and 2013 in development (n=32 960) and internal validation cohorts (n=13 992). An external validation cohort from a separate network from 2015 to 2020 included 39 051 patients. Model features were defined using electronic health record codified data and narrative data with NLP. We developed 2 models to predict 5-year AF incidence using (1) codified+NLP data and (2) codified data only and evaluated model performance. The analysis included 2839 incident AF cases in the development cohort and 1057 and 2226 cases in internal and external validation cohorts, respectively. The C-statistic was greater (P<0.001) in codified+NLP model (0.744 [95% CI, 0.735-0.753]) compared with codified-only (0.730 [95% CI, 0.720-0.739]) in the development cohort. In internal validation, the C-statistic of codified+NLP was modestly higher (0.735 [95% CI, 0.720-0.749]) compared with codified-only (0.729 [95% CI, 0.715-0.744]; P=0.06) and CHARGE-AF (0.717 [95% CI, 0.703-0.731]; P=0.002). Codified+NLP and codified-only were well calibrated, whereas CHARGE-AF underestimated AF risk. In external validation, the C-statistic of codified+NLP (0.750 [95% CI, 0.740-0.760]) remained higher (P<0.001) than codified-only (0.738 [95% CI, 0.727-0.748]) and CHARGE-AF (0.735 [95% CI, 0.725-0.746]). Conclusions Estimation of 5-year risk of AF can be modestly improved using NLP to incorporate narrative electronic health record data.

Identification of Distinct Subgroups in Moderately Severe Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis Using Data-Driven Phenotyping of Longitudinal Hemodynamic Progression

Background Rheumatic mitral stenosis is a significant cause of valvular heart disease. Pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) reflects the hemodynamic consequences of mitral stenosis and is used to determine treatment strategies. However, PASP progression and expected outcomes based on PASP changes in patients with moderately severe mitral stenosis remain unclear. Methods and Results A total of 436 patients with moderately severe rheumatic mitral stenosis (valve area 1.0-1.5 cm2) were enrolled. Composite outcomes included all-cause mortality and hospitalization for heart failure. Data-driven phenotyping identified 2 distinct trajectory groups based on PASP progression: rapid (8.7%) and slow (91.3%). Patients in the rapid progression group were older and had more diabetes and atrial fibrillation than those in the slow progression group (all P<0.05). The initial mean diastolic pressure gradient and PASP were higher in the rapid progression group than in the slow progression group (6.2±2.4 mm Hg versus 5.1±2.0 mm Hg [P=0.001] and 42.3±13.3 mm Hg versus 33.0±9.2 mm Hg [P<0.001], respectively). The rapid progression group had a poorer event-free survival rate than the slow progression group (log-rank P<0.001). Rapid PASP progression was a significant risk factor for composite outcomes even after adjusting for comorbidities (hazard ratio, 3.08 [95% CI, 1.68-5.64]; P<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that PASP >40 mm Hg was independently associated with allocation to the rapid progression group (odds ratio, 4.95 [95% CI, 2.08-11.99]; P<0.001). Conclusions Rapid PASP progression was associated with a higher risk of the composite outcomes. The main independent predictor for rapid progression group allocation was initial PASP >40 mm Hg.

Modified valve-in-valve bailout technique of transcatheter aortic valve replacement in severe aortic regurgitation for valve jumping up to ascending aorta: a case report

BACKGROUND

Aortic regurgitation remains a challenge for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), because of the high risk of post-procedural migration or paravalvular leakage resulting from the anatomical and pathophysiological features.

CASE SUMMARY

A 75-year-old male with symptomatic severe aortic regurgitation underwent transfemoral TAVR due to poor physical condition and a Society of Thoracic Surgeons score of 11.3%. However, complete dislodgement of the valve into the ascending aorta occurred during the operation. We performed a modified valve-in-valve technique by using an ablation catheter (instead of performing urgent surgery), and no post-interventional complications were found during hospitalization. The patient was discharged in a stable condition on postoperative Day 12. At the 6-month follow-up, echocardiography showed trivial paravalvular leakage. The left ventricular ejection fraction further improved from 30 to 48%.

DISCUSSION

The management of valve migration can be troublesome. In this case, we performed a modified valve-in-valve technique by using an ablation catheter without post-interventional complications. This is a novel strategy for the management of emergencies, which could avoid surgical thoracotomy. Our strategy may be an alternative option in some cases of valve jumping up to the ascending aorta.

[Mitral valve: When conservative, when surgical, when interventional therapy?]

The management of severe symptomatic mitral regurgitation is in contrast to the aortic-valve-intervention more challenging due to the complex mitral-valve anatomy. In primary mitral regurgitation surgical therapy is recommended, whereas there are various therapeutic options in secondary mitral regurgitation. Besides the established mitral-valve Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge-Repair (M-TEER) and the interventional annuloplasty - devices dynamic developments have recently been made in the field of Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement-therapy (TMVR). This article surveys the current recommendations and available therapeutic options in mitral regurgitation.

Prognostic relevance of B-type natriuretic peptide in patients with moderate mixed aortic valve disease

AIMS

Data on B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and adverse outcomes in patients with moderate mixed aortic valve disease (MAVD), defined as moderate aortic stenosis (AS) and regurgitation (AR), are scarce. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of BNP on the clinical outcomes in such patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Clinical data from 81 patients (mean age, 74.1 ± 6.8 years; 50.6%, men) treated for moderate MAVD and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50% during 2010-2018 were retrospectively analysed. Specific echocardiographic data of the study patients were LVEF of 57.8 ± 5.0%, aortic valve index of 0.64 ± 0.04 cm2 /m2 , peak aortic valve velocity of 3.38 ± 0.29 m/s, and AR vena contracta width of 4.2 ± 0.7 mm. The median BNP level was 61.4 pg/mL (interquartile range, 29.7-109.9). The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, heart failure hospitalization, and aortic valve replacement, and its cumulative incidence at 5 years was 57.7%. Multivariable analysis revealed that age (hazard ratio, 1.079; 95% confidence interval, 1.028-1.133; P = 0.002) and BNP levels (hazard ratio, 1.028; 95% confidence interval, 1.003-1.053; P = 0.027) were significantly related to the endpoint; specifically, BNP > 61.4 pg/mL had significantly higher incidence rates of the endpoint than those with a BNP ≤ 61.4 pg/mL (70.3% vs. 45.5% at 5 years; P = 0.018). Compared with patients with BNP ≤ 61.4 pg/mL, those with BNP > 61.4 pg/mL had significantly worse left ventricular global longitudinal strain (-17.1 ± 3.6% vs. -18.7 ± 2.6%; P = 0.029), along with higher left ventricular mass index (116.9 ± 27.8 g/m2 vs. 103.5 ± 19.7 g/m2 ; P = 0.014), relative wall thickness (0.45 ± 0.07 vs. 0.42 ± 0.05; P = 0.022), left atrial volume index (46.0 ± 28.4 mL/m2 vs. 31.4 ± 10.3 mL/m2 ; P = 0.003), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (32.6 ± 9.7 mmHg vs. 28.2 ± 4.7 mmHg; P = 0.011), and prevalence of moderate or greater tricuspid regurgitation (15.0% vs. 0.0%; P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with moderate MAVD are at higher risk of unfavourable clinical outcomes, and age and BNP are independently related to the occurrence of adverse events. High BNP levels may reflect extravalvular cardiac damage in patients with moderate MAVD.