Long-term Outcomes Associated With Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

Pacemaker implantation after cardiac surgery: a contemporary, nationwide perspective

BACKGROUND

Cardiac surgery carries a heightened risk of bradyarrhythmias, but current permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation estimates rely on non-contemporary studies. This study primarily aimed to explore the incidence and indications for PPM implantation at 30 days and 1 year after different cardiac surgical procedures in a modern cohort. Secondary outcomes were PPM incidence at 10 years and time from cardiac surgery to PPM implantation.

METHODS

This nationwide population-based study included all patients in Sweden who from 2006 to 2020 underwent first-time coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and/or valvular surgery. Patients with previous PPM, previous or later implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and those who underwent heart transplantation were excluded.

RESULTS

Overall, 76 447 patients were included, out of which 8.2% (n=6271) received a PPM. The cumulative incidence of PPM implantation was 2.9%, 3.8% and 9.5% at 30 days, 1 year and 10 years following cardiac surgery, respectively. The main PPM indication was atrioventricular block. Tricuspid valve surgery exhibited the highest cumulative incidence for PPM both at 30 days (6.8%, 95% CI 4.3% to 10.0%) and 1 year (8.8%, 95% CI 6.0% to 12.0%) surpassing mitral valve surgery (30 day 5.3%, 95% CI 4.7% to 6.0%; 1 year 6.5%, 95% CI 5.8% to 7.3%), aortic valve surgery (30 day 4.8%, 95% CI 4.5% to 5.1%; 1 year 6.0%, 95% CI 5.6% to 6.3%) and CABG (30 day 0.74%, 95% CI 0.6% to 0.8%; 1 year 1.3%, 95% CI 1.2% to 1.3%). The incidence following combined operations (multiple valves and/or CABG) was 6.5% (95% CI 6.0% to 6.9%) and 8.1% (95% CI 7.7% to 8.6%) at 30 days and 1 year, respectively. Concomitant ablation surgery increased the risk even further (adjusted HR 9.2, 95% CI 7.9 to 10.6; p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The need for PPM after cardiac surgery is substantial, primarily due to atrioventricular block. Tricuspid valve surgery is associated with the highest risk for PPM among isolated procedures. Combined procedures and concomitant surgical ablation further increase that risk.

Implications of pacemaker implantation after aortic valve surgery for endocarditis: a nationwide study†

OBJECTIVES

Infective endocarditis (IE) is associated with a high risk of atrioventricular block and surgery adds to the risk of receiving a permanent pacemaker. The clinical impact of pacemaker implantation in IE patients is insufficiently studied. Our objective was to analyse long-term clinical outcomes in patients who receive a permanent pacemaker after IE surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide observational cohort study, including all patients undergoing surgery for aortic valve IE in Sweden 1997-2022. The exposure group was patients who received a permanent pacemaker within 30 days of surgery. We used inverse probability of treatment weighting to account for inter-group differences and flexible parametric models to estimate hazards and cumulative incidences. Outcomes were all-cause mortality, heart failure and reinfection in the prosthetic valve.

RESULTS

Among 2175 patients who underwent surgery for aortic valve endocarditis, 168 (8%) received a permanent pacemaker. The mean age was 59 years; 18% were female. During a mean follow-up of 8.0 years (maximum 26 years), 822 patients (38%) died. At 15 years, the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality was 60% versus 50% in the pacemaker versus the no pacemaker group; for heart failure, it was 21% versus 16%. We found no association of pacemaker implantation with mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.86-1.58], heart failure (HR 1.42; 95% CI 0.89-2.29) or reinfection (HR 0.85; 95% CI 0.50-1.45).

CONCLUSIONS

Pacemaker implantation after surgery for aortic valve IE is common but was not associated with an increased risk of death, heart failure or reinfection. Although pacemaker need suggests more advanced disease, these results show that lifesaving surgery is not importantly jeopardised by the need for a pacemaker.

Sutureless Valve Outcomes in Isolated Aortic Valve Replacement by Surgical Approach: Results from a Prospective International Real-World Registry

OBJECTIVE

Perceval sutureless valve (Corcym, Saluggia, Italy) has been in clinical use for more than 15 years. The aim of this study is to report clinical and hemodynamic performance from a real-world registry in patients who underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) with a Perceval, comparing outcomes of minimally invasive (MICS) versus full sternotomy (FS) settings.

METHODS

This prospective international registry enrolled 1,652 patients implanted with a sutureless aortic valve in 55 institutions from 2011 to 2021. Patients with isolated AVR were analyzed by MICS and FS approaches. Preoperative covariates were adjusted with propensity score matching 2:1, reaching a final cohort of 857 isolated AVR patients with 558 patients in MICS and 299 in FS groups.

RESULTS

Successful first implantation was 98.0% for both approaches (P > 0.999). As expected, surgical timings were significantly longer in MICS versus FS (P = 0.004 and P < 0.001), but intensive care unit and hospital lengths of stay were significantly lower in the MICS cohort, resulting in about 0.5 days and 1.5 days less spent in the intensive care unit and hospital, respectively. The surgical approach did not show any effect on early or late survival, disabling stroke, leaks greater than 2, pacemaker rate, or hemodynamics.

CONCLUSIONS

Our propensity-matched analysis demonstrates the noninferiority of MICS with regard to hard endpoints and better outcomes for secondary endpoints such as reduced length of intensive care and in-hospital stay.

Pacemaker implantation after surgical aortic valve replacement and balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Incidence, predictors, and prognosis

Background

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains a significant challenge despite new-generation devices.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify predictors of PPI during preoperative evaluation and assess its mid-term impact in a single-center, real-world setting.

Methods

From 2010 to 2020, 1486 patients with aortic stenosis underwent surgical aortic valve replacement or TAVI using balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valves. The PPI rate was estimated using the hospital discharge record for each patient in the Emilia-Romagna region.

Results

The 30-day incidence of PPI in the TAVI group was 3.4%. While 30-day PPI did not affect overall survival (log-rank, P = .494 NS), it predicted rehospitalization due to cardiac causes (hazard ratio 10.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] 95% 3.41-31.00; P <.001). Calcifications in the leaflet (odds ratio [OR] 4.66; 95% CI 1.41-15.47; P = .012), left ventricular outflow tract (OR 4.51; 95% CI 1.48-13.76; P = .008), and device landing zone (OR 2.52; 9% CI 0.86-7.40; P = .093) were associated with a higher risk of PPI.

Conclusion

A low 30-day PPI incidence was observed, primarily because of the exclusive use of balloon-expandable SAPIEN transcatheter heart valves and high implantation techniques. Baseline factors such as leaflet, left ventricular outflow tract, and device landing zone calcifications, as well as right bundle branch block, highlight the need for comprehensive preoperative analysis to reduce PPI incidence and mitigate its associated longer hospital stays and rehospitalizations due to cardiac causes.

The impact of permanent pacemaker implantation on long-term survival after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The long-term impact of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation on survival after cardiac surgery remains ill defined. We aimed to investigate the effect of PPM on survival and explore factors driving outcomes using meta-regression according to the type of surgery.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched through October 2023 to identify studies reporting the long-term outcomes of PPM implantation. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality during follow-up. The secondary outcome was heart failure rehospitalization. The subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed according to the type of surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. 183,555 patients (n = 6298; PPM, n = 177,257; no PPM) were analyzed for all-cause mortality, with a weighted median follow-up of 79.7 months. PPM implantation was associated with increased risks of all-cause mortality during follow-up (hazard ratio, 1.22; confidence interval, 1.08-1.38, P < .01) and heart failure rehospitalization (hazard ratio, 1.24; confidence interval, 1.01-1.52, P = .04). Meta-regression demonstrated the adverse impact of PPM was less prominent in patients undergoing mitral or tricuspid valve surgery, whereas studies with a greater proportion with aortic valve replacement were associated with worse outcomes. Similarly, a greater proportion with atrioventricular block as an indication of PPM was associated with worse survival.

CONCLUSIONS

PPM implantation after cardiac surgery is associated with a greater risk of long-term all-cause mortality and heart failure rehospitalization. This impact is more prominent in patients undergoing aortic valve surgery or atrioventricular block as an indication than those undergoing mitral or tricuspid valve surgery.

Conduction Disturbances and Outcome After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Bicuspid and Tricuspid Aortic Stenosis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the incidence and prognostic implications of new-onset conduction disturbances after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) aortic stenosis (AS) versus patients with tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) AS (ie, BAV-AS and TAV-AS, respectively). Additionally, the study included stratification of BAV patients according to subtype.

METHODS

In this cohort study, the incidence of postoperative third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block with subsequent permanent pacemaker requirement and new-onset left bundle-branch block (LBBB) was investigated in 1147 consecutive patients without preoperative conduction disorder who underwent isolated SAVR (with or without ascending aortic surgery) between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2022. The groups were stratified by aortic valve morphology (BAV, n=589; TAV, n=558). The outcomes of interests were new-onset third-degree AV block or new-onset LBBB during the index hospitalization. The impact of new-onset postoperative conduction disturbances on survival was investigated in BAV-AS and TAV-AS patients during a median follow-up of 8.2 years. BAV morphology was further categorized according to the Sievers and Schmidtke classification system (possible in 307 BAV-AS patients) to explore association between BAV subtypes and new-onset conduction disturbances after SAVR.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of third-degree AV block and new-onset LBBB after SAVR was 4.5% and 7.8%, respectively. BAV-AS patients had a higher incidence of both new-onset third-degree AV block (6.5% versus 2.5%; P=0.001) and new-onset LBBB (9.7% versus 5.7%; P=0.013) compared with TAV-AS patients. New-onset LBBB was associated with an increased all-cause mortality during follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.12-2.30]; P=0.011), whereas new-onset third-degree AV block was not associated with worse prognosis. Subgroup analysis of the BAV cohort revealed that BAV-AS patients with fusion of the right- and non-coronary cusps had the highest risk of new-onset third-degree AV block (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 8.33 [95% CI, 3.31-20.97]; P<0.001, with TAV as reference group) and new-onset LBBB (aOR, 4.03 [95% CI, 1.84-8.82]; P<0.001, with TAV as reference group), whereas no significant association was observed for the other BAV subtypes.

CONCLUSIONS

New-onset LBBB after SAVR is associated with increased all-cause mortality during follow-up, and is more frequent complication in BAV AS patients compared with TAV-AS patients. BAV-AS patients with fusion of the right- and non-coronary cusps have an increased risk for conduction disturbances after SAVR. This should be taken into consideration when managing these patients.

Conduction Disorders after Rapid Deployment Aortic Valve Replacement Compared to Conventional Aortic Valve Replacement

OBJECTIVES

 We evaluated and compared early postprocedural and midterm incidence and evolution of atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction disorders following rapid deployment aortic valve replacement (RDAVR) and conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 One hundred and forty-seven patients who underwent isolated rapid deployment AVR between 2017 and 2021 as well as 128 patients after conventional biological AVR in the same period were included in this study. ECGs recorded at baseline, discharge, and 12 months were retrospectively analyzed. Intrinsic rhythm, PQ interval, QRS duration, and atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction were evaluated and compared between both groups.

RESULTS

 Patients in both groups had comparable Society of Thoracic surgeons risc (STS) scores (2.9 ± 1.6 vs. 3.1 ± 2.2, p = 0.32) and comparable baseline characteristics. The mean age was 73.4 ± 5.7 years in the RDAVR group and 74.2 ± 5.9 years in the AVR group, respectively. At baseline, the mean QRS width was 95.7 ± 25.5 ms in the RDAVR group, and 97.3 ± 23.5 ms in the AVR group, respectively (p = 0.590). At discharge, the mean QRS width in the RDAVR group was significantly increased with 117.4 ± 28.6 ms and a mean ΔQRS width of 21.7 ± 26.3 ms (p < 0.001) compared with baseline. No significant changes in QRS width were found in the AVR group with a mean value of 101.2 ± 24.1 ms and a mean ΔQRS width of 3.9 ± 23.9 ms at discharge (p = 0.193). The left bundle branch block (LBBB) was increased in the RDAVR group after 12 months (19.3% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001). Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) rates were significantly higher in the RDAVR group after 12 months (hazard ratio (HR): 4.68; 95% CI: 2.23-7.43, p < 0.001). Mortality did not differ between both groups after 12 months (HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.46-1.83, p = 0.835) CONCLUSION:  Patients after RDAVR showed significantly higher rates of LBBB and PPI after 12 months. However, higher mortality was not observed in the RDAVR group.

Predictors of the Need for Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement with a Biological Prosthesis and the Effect on Long-Term Survival

The need for a permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation after surgical aortic valve implantation (SAVR) is a recognized postoperative complication, with potentially long-term reduced survival. From 1987 to 2017, 2500 consecutive patients underwent SAVR with a biological valve with or without concomitant procedures such as CABG or mitral valve repair. Mechanical valves or valves in another position were excluded. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The need for PPM implantation was documented in 2.7% of the cases. Patients with a postoperative PPM were older and had higher risk scores and a higher comorbid burden. Its predictors were a prior SAVR (odds ratio of 5.38, p < 0.001), use of a Perceval valve (3.94, p = 0.008), prior AV block 1-2 (2.86, p = 0.008), and pulmonary hypertension (2.09, p = 0.017). The need for PPM implantation was associated with an increased need for blood products, a prolonged stay in the ICU, and an increased 30-day mortality (2.5% vs. 7.0%, p = 0.005). The median survival decreased from 117 (114-120) to 90 (74-105) months (p < 0.001). The implantation had no significant effect on the freedom of congestive heart failure. The need for a PPM implant is not a benign event but might be a marker for a more severe underlying disease. Improving surgical techniques, especially with the Perceval rapid deployment valve, might decrease the need for a PPM implant.

Risk of Pacemaker Implantation After Aortic Root Replacement With and Without Valve Preservation

BACKGROUND

We compared the outcomes of aortic root replacement by composite valve grafts (CVG) and valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) operations, with an emphasis on postoperative conduction block and the need for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM).

METHODS

From 1997 to 2023, 1712 consecutive patients underwent ARR by VSRR (501 [29%]) or CVG (1211 [71%]) at a high-volume aortic center.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing CVG were older (59 ± 14 vs 49 ± 14 years, P < .001), with more cardiovascular comorbidities. Compared with CVG, there were more women undergoing VSRR (17% vs. 13%, P = .042) and more patients with connective tissue disease (22% vs 7.3%, P < .001). Multivariable analysis found that the risk for PPM was higher after CVG compared with VSRR (6.5% vs 1.2%; odds ratio [OR], 2.83; 95% CI, 1.23-7.69; P = .024). Other variables associated with PPM include older age (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.05; P = .006) preoperative renal impairment (OR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.24-5.6; P = .010), previous operation (OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 1.29-5.62; P = .007), and bicuspid aortic valve (OR, 3.63; 95% CI, 2.13-6.33; P < .001). Among the CVG population, patients who are at increased risk are especially those with some degree of aortic stenosis (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.18-3.61; P = .011). Patients who required PPM had no additive risk for long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.47-2.17; P = .986); however, they were more likely to have reduced ejection fraction (29.3% vs 16%, P = .014).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of PPM after ARR is low, but rates were higher after CVG compared with VSRR.

Long-Term Outcomes Associated With Permanent Pacemaker Implantation in Low-Risk Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

Background

Permanent pacemaker implantation is associated with an increased risk of mortality and heart failure after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR).

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to analyze long-term prognosis of permanent pacemaker implantation following SAVR on low-risk patients.

Methods

This nationwide, population-based, observational cohort study included all patients who underwent SAVR in Sweden between 2001 and 2018 with low surgical risk, defined as logistic EuroSCORE I <10% or EuroSCORE II <4%. Patients received a permanent pacemaker implantation within 30 days after SAVR. Main outcomes were all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization, and endocarditis. Regression standardization addressed confounding.

Results

We included 19,576 patients with low surgical risk. Of these, 732 (3.7%) patients received a permanent pacemaker within 30 days after SAVR. The mean age was 68 years and 33% were women. We found no difference in all-cause mortality between patients who received a pacemaker compared to those who did not (absolute survival difference at 17 years: 0.1% (95% CI: -3.6% to 3.8%). After 17 years, the estimated cumulative incidence of heart failure in patients who received a pacemaker was 28% (95% CI: 24%-33%) vs 20% (95% CI: 19%-22%) in patients who did not (absolute difference 8.2% [95% CI: 3.8%-13%]). We found no difference in endocarditis between the groups.

Conclusions

We found an increased incidence of heart failure in patients with low surgical risk who received a permanent pacemaker after SAVR. Permanent pacemaker implantation was not associated with all-cause mortality or endocarditis. Efforts should be made to avoid the need for permanent pacemaker following SAVR.

Postoperative quality of life and pain after upper hemisternotomy and conventional median sternotomy for aortic valve replacement: results of a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

Surgical aortic valve replacement through conventional sternotomy yields excellent results. Minimally invasive techniques are deemed equally safe and serve as a viable and less traumatic alternative. However, it is unclear how both surgical techniques affect patient-reported outcomes. The objective of this trial is to compare postoperative cardiac-related quality of life and postoperative pain after upper hemisternotomy and conventional surgical aortic valve replacement.

METHODS

In this single-centre, open-label, investigator-initiated randomized clinical trial, patients were randomized to upper hemisternotomy or conventional full median sternotomy. Patients unable to undergo randomization were monitored prospectively (registry group). Primary outcome was cardiac-specific quality of life, measured with the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire up to 1 year postoperatively.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing upper hemisternotomy had a significantly higher physical limitation domain score across all postoperative time points than patients undergoing conventional surgical aortic valve replacement (estimated mean difference 2.12 points; P = 0.014). Patients undergoing upper hemisternotomy were more likely to have a pain score <30 the first 2 days postoperatively than patients undergoing conventional surgical aortic valve replacement (odds ratio 2.63; P = 0.007). This was associated with reduced opioid analgesic intake. Postoperative surgical outcome did not differ between both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical aortic valve replacement through both conventional sternotomy and upper hemisternotomy resulted in clinically similar and important improvements in quality of life, with a small advantage for upper hemisternotomy, while there was no compromise in safety.

Permanent Pacemaker Implantation and Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Concomitant Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Surgery

BACKGROUND

Tricuspid valve annuloplasty (TA) during mitral valve repair (MVr) is associated with increased risk of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation, but the magnitude of risk and long-term clinical consequences have not been firmly established.

OBJECTIVES

This study assesses the incidence rates of PPM implantation after isolated MVr and following MVr with TA as well as the associated long-term clinical consequences of PPM implantation.

METHODS

State-mandated hospital discharge databases of New York and California were queried for patients undergoing MVr (isolated or with concomitant TA) between 2004 and 2019. Patients were stratified by whether or not they received a PPM within 90 days of index surgery. After weighting by propensity score, survival, heart failure hospitalizations (HFHs), endocarditis, stroke, and reoperation were compared between patients with or without PPM.

RESULTS

A total of 32,736 patients underwent isolated MVr (n = 28,003) or MVr + TA (n = 4,733). Annual MVr + TA volumes increased throughout the study period (P < 0.001, trend), and PPM rates decreased (P < 0.001, trend). The incidence of PPM implantation <90 days after surgery was 7.7% for MVr and 14.0% for MVr + TA. In 90-day conditional landmark-weighted analyses, PPMs were associated with reduced long-term survival among MVr (HR: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.75-2.19; P < 0.001) and MVr + TA recipients (HR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.28-2.14; P < 0.001). In both surgical groups, PPMs were also associated with an increased risk of HFH (HR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.27-1.90; P < 0.001) and endocarditis (HR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.52-2.51; P < 0.001), but not with stroke or reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to isolated MVr, adding TA to MVr was associated with a higher risk of 90-day PPM implantation. In both surgical groups, PPM implantation was associated with an increase in mortality, HFH, and endocarditis.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation and Conduction Disturbances: Focus on Clinical Implications

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established alternative to surgery in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and has expanded its indications to even low-surgical-risk patients. Conduction abnormalities (CA) and permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantations remain a relatively common finding post TAVI due to the close proximity of the conduction system to the aortic root. New onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) and high-grade atrioventricular block are the most commonly reported CA post TAVI. The overall rate of PPM implantation post TAVI varies and is related to pre- and intra-procedural factors. Therefore, when screening patients for TAVI, Heart Teams should take under consideration the various anatomical, pathophysiological and procedural conditions that predispose to CA and PPM requirement after the procedure. This is particularly important as TAVI is being offered to younger patients with longer life-expectancy. Herein, we highlight the incidence, predictors, impact and management of CA in patients undergoing TAVI.

Building and Optimizing the Interdisciplinary Heart Team

A multidisciplinary care team model, or Heart Team approach, has become a central tenet of cardiovascular care. Though initially applied to the management of heart transplantation and subsequently complex coronary artery disease, the Heart Team is now utilized broadly across cardiovascular medicine, including in the treatment of valvular disease, pulmonary embolism, cardiogenic shock, high-risk pregnancies in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, and adult congenital heart disease. The Heart Team model improves interdisciplinary collaboration among specialties, adherence to societal guidelines, and shared decision-making with patients and families. In this review, we highlight the development and rationale supporting the Heart Team model, address the challenges of implementing a multidisciplinary care team, and discuss the optimal methods to continue to build, optimize, and implement this approach.

Pacemaker after Sutureless and Rapid-Deployment Prostheses: A Progress Report from the SURD-IR

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the need for postoperative permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) following sutureless and rapid-deployment aortic valve replacement (SuRD-AVR) in the context of a progress report from a large multicenter international registry (SURD-IR).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 4,166 patients who underwent SuRD-AVR between 2008 and 2019. The primary outcome was the need for PPI before discharge. The study population was analyzed separately according to the implanted prostheses (Su cohort and RD cohort). Each cohort was divided into two groups based on the operation date: an early group ("EG" = 2008-2016) and a late group ("LG" = 2017-2019).

RESULTS

The rate of PPI decreased significantly in the Su cohort over time (EG = 10.8% vs LG = 6.3%, p < 0.001). In the Su cohort, a decrease in age, risk profile, and incidence of bicuspid aortic valve, increased use of anterior right thoracotomy, reduction of cardiopulmonary bypass time and of associated procedures, and more frequent use of smaller prostheses were observed over time. In the RD cohort, the rate of PPI was stable over time (EG = 8.8% vs LG = 9.3%, p = 0.8). In this cohort, a younger age, lower risk profile, and higher incidence of concomitant septal myectomy were observed over time.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis showed a significant decrease in the PPI rate in patients who underwent Su-AVR over time. Patient selection as well as surgical improvements and a more accurate sizing could be correlated with this phenomenon. The RD cohort revealed no significant differences either in patient's characteristics or in PPI rate between the two time periods.

Chronological comparison of TAVI and SAVR stratified to surgical risk: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been established as a reasonable alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, long-term outcomes including valve durability and the need for reintervention are unanswered, especially in younger patients who tend to be low surgical risk. We performed a meta-analysis comparing clinical outcomes after TAVI and SAVR over 5 years stratified to low, intermediate, and high surgical risks.

METHODS

We identified propensity score-matched observational studies and randomised controlled trials comparing TAVI and SAVR. Primary outcomes, including all-cause mortality, moderate or severe aortic regurgitation, moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation, pacemaker placement, and stroke, were extracted. Meta-analyses of outcomes after TAVI compared to SAVR were conducted for different periods of follow-up. Meta-regression was also performed to analyse the correlation of outcomes over time.

RESULTS

A total of 36 studies consisting of 7 RCTs and 29 propensity score-matched studies were selected. TAVI was associated with higher all-cause mortality at 4-5 years in patients with low or intermediate surgical risk. Meta-regression time demonstrated an increasing trend in the risk of all-cause mortality after TAVI compared with SAVR. TAVI was generally associated with a higher risk of moderate or severe aortic regurgitation, moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation, and pacemaker placement.

CONCLUSIONS

TAVI demonstrated an increasing trend of all-cause mortality compared with SAVR when evaluated over a long-term follow-up. More long-term data from recent studies using newer-generation valves and state-of-the-art techniques are needed to accurately assign risks.

The prevalence of permanent pacemaker implantation after open-heart surgeries; eight years of experience in Tehran heart center

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) among open-heart surgery patients.

METHODS

We reviewed data from 23 461 patients undergoing open-heart surgeries between 2009 and 2016 in our heart center in Iran. A total of 18 070 patients (77%) had coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), 3 598 (15.3%) valvular surgeries, and 1 793 (7.6%) congenital repair procedures. Finally, 125 patients who received PPI following open-heart surgeries were enrolled in our study. We defined the demographic and clinical characteristics of all these patients.

RESULTS

PPI was required in 125 (0.53%) patients with an average age of 58 ± 15.3 years. The average hospitalization time after surgery and waiting time for PPI were 19.7 ± 10.2 and 11.4 ± 6.5 days, respectively. Atrial fibrillation was the dominant pre-operative cardiac conduction abnormality (29.6%). Also, the primary indication for PPI was complete heart block in 72 patients (57.6%). Patients in the CABG group were significantly older (P = 0.002) and were more likely to be male (P = 0.030). The valvular group longer bypass and cross-clamp times and had more left atrial abnormalities. In addition, the congenital defect group was younger and had longer ICU stay times.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our study findings, PPI was required in 0.53% of patients following open-heart surgery due to damage to the cardiac conduction system. The current study paves the way for future investigations to identify possible predictors of PPI in patients undergoing open-heart surgeries.

Outcome of permanent pacemaker implantation in transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement: A still unsolved problem

Despite advances in technologies and clinical experience, conduction disorders, after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), represent the weak point of these procedures, requiring permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) till 37.7% of patients in TAVR recipients. The role of PPI in TAVR and SAVR remains controversial in mid- and long-term outcomes. Indeed, many studies have been published with contradictory results, leaving doubts rather than certainties.

Validation of the Emory Risk Score in the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Population: A Canadian Perspective

Background

Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation may be indicated post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The Emory Risk Score (ERS) is a validated predictive risk score of the need for a PPM post-TAVI using a balloon-expandable valve. Our objectives were to determine the validity of the ERS in our local TAVI population with both balloon-expandable and self-expanding valves and to identify additional electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters predictive of the need for a PPM post-TAVI.

Methods

Retrospective chart and electronic database reviews were performed to collect demographic and procedural information. Two expert readers reviewed all ECGs. Independent factors associated with PPM implantation were examined with multivariable logistic regression via a stepwise selection process with calculation of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to assess model discrimination.

Results

The overall PPM implantation rate was 11.7%; rates were 9% for the Sapien 3 valves, 10% for the Evolut Pro valves, and 17% for the Evolut R valves. The ERS was found to not be predictive of need for PPM post-TAVI for the entire cohort. Right bundle branch block was the only ERS parameter independently associated with new PPM implant (8.5% vs 25%, odds ratio = 3.59, P = 0.01). No additional ECG parameters met the criteria for statistical significance.

Conclusions

The poor predictive value of the ERS in determining the need for a PPM post-TAVI in our patient population suggests that further refinement of a formula (or risk-calculator) is warranted. Identification of a precise risk-calculator is likely to facilitate patient mobilization and reduce inpatient healthcare resource utilization.

Catheter-Based Interventions for the Management of Valvular Heart Disease During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is associated with a significant increase in hemodynamic burden. These changes can lead to maternal morbidity and mortality as well as unfavorable fetal outcomes in patients with valvular heart disease and limited cardiac reserve. Mechanical interventions may be needed for the management of severe hemodynamic deterioration not responding to medical therapy. Catheter-based percutaneous interventions can provide an alternative therapy to surgery during pregnancy. The purpose of this article is to review indications, potential advantages, and limitations of catheter-based interventions for the management of women with valvular heart disease in pregnancy.

Pacing Burden and Clinical Outcomes Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement - A Real-World Registry Report

INTRODUCTION

Conflicting data exists regarding the prognostic significance of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation following TAVR.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate whether PPM implantation post TAVR is associated with adverse outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a cohort comprised of patients enrolled to a prospective registry between 2008-2019. Participants were allocated into three groups: patients without prior pacemaker (n=930, 75%), patients with previous pacemaker implantation (n=118, 10%) and those with pacemaker implantation following TAVR (n=191, 15%). Primary outcome included death and heart failure hospitalizations at 1 year. Secondary outcomes included death and heart failure hospitalizations stratified by pacing burden.

RESULTS

A total of 1239 patients underwent TAVR with median follow up of 2.3 years (IQR 1-4). Patients with previous and new pacemaker implantation were older [84 (80-88), 84 (80-88), 82 (78-86), p-0.009)], and had lower baseline LVEF (50%±15%, 55%±12%, 56%±12%, p<0.001). Patients who underwent new pacemaker implantations had higher combined outcome of death and heart failure hospitalizations (21%,12% ,14%, p-0.01). New pacemaker implantation was associated with almost twice the risk of 1-year mortality (HR-1.85, 95% C.I 1.13-3.02, p-0.014). Pacing burden, however, was not associated with the primary outcome. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed at long term follow up [cumulative probability to develop primary endpoint at 3 years was 57%±2% (without PPM), 57%±6% (prior PPM), 54%±4% (new PPM), p-0.52].

CONCLUSION

Pacemaker implantation following TAVR is associated with higher 1-year adverse outcome, but this attenuates over time, suggesting that competing factors may play a role. Interestingly, pacing burden is not associated with adverse clinical course.

Standardized Aortic Valve Neocuspidization for Treatment of Aortic Valve Diseases

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve replacement is the traditional surgical treatment for aortic valve diseases, yet standardized aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo) is a promising alternative that is gaining popularity. The purpose of this article is to review the available published literature of AVNeo using glutaraldehyde-treated autologous pericardium, also known as the Ozaki procedure, including indications, outcomes, potential benefits, and modes of failure for the reconstructed valve.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed using keywords related to aortic valve repair, AVNeo, or Ozaki procedure. All articles describing performance of AVNeo were reviewed.

RESULTS

Reported early mortality after AVNeo varies from 0% to 5.88%. The largest cohort of patients in the literature includes 850 patients with an inhospital mortality rate of 1.88%. Cumulative incidence of aortic valve reoperation was 4.2% in the largest series. Reoperation was uncommon and mainly due to infective endocarditis or degeneration of the reconstructed valve (most commonly due to aortic valve regurgitation, rather than stenosis).

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic valve neocuspidization is a versatile and standardized alternative to aortic valve replacement with a biological prosthesis. Early to midterm outcomes from a number of centers are excellent and demonstrate the safety and durability of the procedure. Long-term outcomes and clinical trial data are necessary to determine which patients benefit the most from this procedure.

Outcomes Following Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: SWEDEHEART Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

This study was performed to investigate long-term, clinically important outcomes in patients who underwent permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

BACKGROUND

The impact of permanent pacemaker implantation after TAVR is unknown, and prior studies have produced conflicting results.

METHODS

In this nationwide, population-based cohort study, the study included all patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR in Sweden from 2008 to 2018 from the SWEDEHEART (Swedish Web-system for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-based care in Heart disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies) register. Additional baseline characteristics and information about outcomes were obtained by individual crosslinking with other national health data registers. Unadjusted and multivariable-adjusted analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

Of 3,420 patients, 481 (14.1%) underwent permanent pacemaker implantation within 30 days after TAVR. The survival rate at 1, 5, and 10 years was 90.0%, 52.7%, and 10.9% in the pacemaker group and 92.7%, 53.8%, and 15.3% in the nonpacemaker group, respectively (HR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.88-1.22; P = 0.692). The median follow-up was 2.7 years (interquartile range: 2.5, and maximum 11.8 years). There was no difference in the risk of cardiovascular death (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.71-1.18; P = 0.611), heart failure (HR: 1.23; 95% CI: 0.92-1.63; P = 0.157), or endocarditis (HR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.47-1.69; P = 0.734) between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found no difference in long-term survival between patients who did and did not undergo permanent pacemaker implantation after TAVR. As the use of TAVR expands to include younger and low-risk patients with a long life expectancy, it will become increasingly important to understand the impact of permanent pacemaker implantation after TAVR.