Patient Disposition and Long-Term Outcomes After Valve Surgery in Octogenarians

Factors associated with nonhome discharge after endovascular aneurysm repair

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify preoperative factors associated with nonhome discharge (NHD) after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). NHD has implications for patient care, readmission, and long-term mortality; nevertheless, the existing literature lacks information regarding factors associated with NHD for patients undergoing EVAR. In contrast, our study assesses preoperative factors associated with NHD for this population by using national data from the Vascular Quality Initiative.

METHODS

We identified adult patients who underwent elective EVAR in the Vascular Quality Initiative (2003-2022) and excluded those who were not living at home preoperatively. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify preoperative factors associated with NHD. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox-regression analyses were used to assess the impact of NHD on 5-year survival as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

We included 61,792 patients, of which 3155 (5.1%) had NHD. NHD patients were more likely to be older (79 years [interquartile range, 73-18 years] vs 73 years [interquartile range, 67-79 years]), female (33.7% vs 18.2%; P < .001), non-White (16.0% vs 11.7%; P < .001), and have more comorbidities. NHD patients had higher rates of postoperative complications (acute kidney injury, 11.9% vs 2.0% [P < .001]; myocardial infarction, 3.8% vs 0.5% [P < .001]; and in-hospital reintervention, 4.7% vs 0.5% [P = .033]). Multivariable analysis revealed many preoperative characteristics were associated with higher odds of NHD: most notably, age (per additional decade: odds ratio [OR], 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.03-2.28; P < .001), female sex (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.63-1.95; P < .001) and aneurysm diameter >65 mm (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.98-2.39; P < .001), along with potentially modifiable factors, including anemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic heart failure, weight, and diabetes. In contrast, aspirin, statin, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocekr use were associated with lower odds of NHD. NHD was associated with higher hazards of 5-year mortality, even after adjusting for confounders (40% vs 14%; adjusted hazard ratio, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.86-2.44; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Several factors were associated with higher odds of NHD after elective EVAR, including nonmodifiable factors such as female sex and larger aortic diameter, and potentially modifiable factors such as anemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic heart failure, body mass index, and diabetes. Special attention should be given to populations with nonmodifiable factors, and efforts at optimizing medical conditions with higher NHD likelihood seems appropriate to improve patient outcomes and quality of life after EVAR.

In-Hospital Outcomes and 30-Day Readmission Rate After Transcatheter and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Liver Cirrhosis: A Contemporary Propensity-Matched Analysis

Background

Liver cirrhosis is not included in surgical risk prediction models despite being a significant risk factor associated with high periprocedural morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Limited contemporary data exists assessing the outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Patients with cirrhosis who underwent TAVR or SAVR were identified from the Nationwide Readmissions Database. Propensity-score matched analysis was performed to compare the clinical characteristics, in-hospital, and 30-day outcomes between the two groups.

Results

Between 2016 and 2019, 4047 patients with cirrhosis underwent TAVR (n = 3298) or SAVR (n = 749). TAVR adoption sharply rose, doubling the number of cases performed during the study period. Following propensity matching among 718 patients, the TAVR group consistently exhibited significantly lower rates of in-hospital mortality (2.2 vs. 7.5%; p = 0.002), bleeding (14.5 vs. 52.9%; p < 0.001), vascular complications (1.4 vs. 5%; p = 0.011), hepatorenal syndrome (3.3 vs. 8.9%; p = 0.003), cardiogenic shock (2.8 vs. 7%; p = 0.015), mechanical circulatory support utilization (0.6 vs. 4.7%; p = 0.001), 30-day all-cause readmission rates (10.3 vs. 18.1%; p = 0.005), and 30-day unplanned readmission rates (10 vs. 16.6%; p = 0.015) compared to the SAVR group. The TAVR group had significantly shorter median hospital stays, lower non-home disposition rates, and reduced hospital costs.

Conclusions

TAVR is associated with significantly lower rates of in-hospital mortality, bleeding, vascular complications, hepatorenal syndrome, cardiogenic shock, mechanical circulatory support utilization, and 30-day readmission rates compared to SAVR and represents a safe therapeutic option for aortic valve replacement in patients with cirrhosis.

The impact of geriatric-specific variables on long-term outcomes in patients with hepatopancreatobiliary and colorectal cancer selected for resection

BACKGROUND

Preoperative geriatric-specific variables (GSV) influence short-term morbidity in surgical patients, but their impact on long-term survival in elderly patients with cancer remains undefined.

STUDY DESIGN

This observational cohort study included patients ≥65 years who underwent hepatopancreatobiliary or colorectal operations for malignancy between 2014 and 2020. Individual patient data included merged ACS NSQIP data, Procedure Targeted, and Geriatric Surgery Research variables. Patients were stratified by age: 65-74, 75-84, and ≥85 and presence of these GSVs: mobility aid, preoperative falls, surrogate signed consent, and living alone. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were used to evaluate 1-year mortality and postoperative discharge to facility.

RESULTS

577 patients were included: 62.6 % were 65-74 years old, 31.7 % 75-84, and 5.7 % ≥ 85. 96 patients were discharged to a facility with frequency increasing with age group (11.4 % vs 22.4 % vs 42.4 %, respectively, p < 0.001). 73 patients (12.7 %) died during 1-year follow-up, 32.9 % from cancer recurrence. One-year mortality was associated with undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary operations (p = 0.017), discharge to a facility (p = 0.047), and a surrogate signing consent (p = 0.035). Increasing age (p < 0.001), hepatopancreatobiliary resection (p = 0.002), living home alone (p < 0.001), and mobility aid use (p < 0.001) were associated with discharge to a facility.

CONCLUSION

Geriatric-specific variables, living alone and use of a mobility aid, were associated with discharge to a facility. A surrogate signing consent and discharge to a facility were associated with 1-year mortality. These findings underscore the importance of preoperative patient selection and optimization, efficacious discharge planning, and informed decision-making in the care of elderly cancer patients.

Depression Is Associated With Non-Home Discharge After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

INTRODUCTION

Depression is disproportionately high in patients with coronary artery disease and has been associated with adverse outcomes following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). One quality metric, non-home discharge (NHD), can have substantial implications for patients and health care resource utilization. Depression increases the risk of NHD after many operations, but it has not been studied after CABG. We hypothesized that a history of depression would be associated with an increased risk of NHD following CABG.

METHODS

CABG cases were identified from the 2018 National Inpatient Sample using ICD-10 codes. Depression, demographic data, comorbidities, length of stay (LOS), rate of NHD were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests where a P-value < 0.05 was defined as statistically significant. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess independent association between depression and NHD as well as LOS while controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

There were 31,309 patients, of which 2743 (8.8%) had depression. Depressed patients were younger, females, in a lower income quartile, and more medically complex. They also demonstrated more frequent NHD and prolonged LOS. After adjusted multivariable analysis, depressed patients had a 70% increased odds of NHD (adjusted odds ratio: 1.70 [1.52-1.89] P < 0.001) and a 24% increased odds of prolonged LOS (AOR: 1.24 [1.12-1.38] P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

From a national sample, depressed patients were associated with more frequent NHD following CABG. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate this, and it highlights the need for improved preoperative identification in order to improve risk stratification and timely allocation of discharge services.

Outcomes of Prolonged ICU Stay for Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery in Australia and New Zealand

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) on hospital mortality and non-home discharge for patients undergoing cardiac surgery over a 16-year period in Australia and New Zealand.

DESIGN

A retrospective, multicenter cohort study covering the period January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2019.

SETTING

One hundred one hospitals in Australia and New Zealand that submitted data to the Australia New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients (aged >18) who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, valve surgery, or combined valve + coronary artery surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The authors analyzed 252,948 cardiac surgical patients from 101 hospitals, with a median age of 68.3 years (IQR 60-75.5), of whom 74.2% (187,632 of 252,948) were male patients. A U-shaped relationship was observed between ICU LOS and hospital mortality, with significantly elevated mortality at short (<20 hours) and long (>5 days) ICU LOS, which persisted after adjustment for illness severity and across clinically important subgroups (odds ratio for mortality with ICU LOS >5 days = 3.21, 95% CI 2.88-3.58, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged duration of ICU LOS after cardiac surgery is associated with increased hospital mortality in a U-shaped relationship. An ICU LOS >5 days should be considered a meaningful definition for prolonged ICU stay after cardiac surgery.

Non-home discharge after cardiac surgery in Australia and New Zealand: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the proportion of patients surviving their cardiac surgery who experienced non-home discharge (NHD) over a 16-year period in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ).

DESIGN

Retrospective, multicentre, cross-sectional study over the time period 01 January 2004 to 31 December 2019.

SETTING

Adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery from the Australia New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database (APD).

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients (age 18 and above) who underwent index coronary artery bypass grafting, cardiac valve surgery or combined valve/coronary surgery.

EXPOSURE

The primary exposure variable was the calendar year during the which the index surgery was performed.

OUTCOME

The primary outcome was NHD after the index surgery. NHD included discharge to locations such as nursing home, chronic care facility, rehabilitation and palliative care.

RESULTS

We analysed 252 924 index cardiac surgical admissions from 101 discrete sites with a median age of 68 years (IQR 60-76), of which 74.2% (187 662 out of 252 920) were males. Of these, 4302 (1.7%) patients died in hospital and 213 011 (84.2%) were discharged home, 18 010 (7.1%) were transferred to another hospital and 17 601 (7%) experienced NHD. In Australia, 14 457 (6.4%) of patients progressed to NHD, compared with 3144 (11.7%) in New Zealand. The rate of NHD increased significantly over time (adjusted OR per year=1.06, 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.07, p<0.001). Increasing age, female sex, non-elective surgery, surgery type and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation III Score were all associated with significant increase in NHD.

CONCLUSIONS

There was significant increase in NHD after cardiac surgery over time in ANZ. This has significant clinical relevance for informed consent discussions between healthcare providers and patients, and for healthcare services planning.

Association between time to therapeutic INR and length of stay following mechanical heart valve surgery

BACKGROUND

Warfarin is the only oral anticoagulant approved for use following mechanical valve surgery (MeVS). Patients may experience prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS) following MeVS awaiting an appropriate warfarin effect. We aimed to determine whether an association exists between time to achieve the first therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) and LOS following MeVS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective single center cohort study. We included consecutive adult patients undergoing elective MeVS from 2013 to 2018. Landmark analyses and multivariable regression with time-updated INR were used to estimate the association between time to therapeutic INR (TTI) and LOS.

RESULTS

Among 384 patients (median age: 51 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 41-57; 58.3% male), the median TTI was 4 days (IQR: 2-5). Thirty seven percent of patients were discharged with a subtherapeutic INR, many on bridging anticoagulation or with an INR close to target. Those achieving therapeutic INR had an increased rate of hospital discharge (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.17; 95% confidence interval: 1.71-2.76; p < .0001). Attainment of a therapeutic INR anytime between postoperative Days 4 and 13 was significantly associated with a shorter LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged time to achieve a therapeutic INR was independently associated with prolonged LOS. Future strategies aimed at improving attainment of therapeutic INR following MeVS may reduce hospital LOS.

Preoperative functional status is associated with discharge to nonhome in geriatric individuals

INTRODUCTION

Discharging older individuals to rehabilitation facilities is associated with adverse outcomes, including readmission or increased mortality rate. As preoperative functional status is an important factor impacting patient outcome, we hypothesized that this would be associated with patient disposition to nonhome locations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed using data from the 2013-2018 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, including targeted variables from the Geriatric Pilot Project. Patients aged 65 and older in 33 institutions across the nation were included (n = 44,219). Preoperative functional status was categorized as independent, partially dependent, and dependent. The primary outcome was home versus nonhome disposition. Nonhome was defined as rehabilitation facility and nursing home. Descriptive analyses were performed. Variables associated with postoperative discharge to nonhome were identified using logistic regression.

RESULTS

The largest percentage of operations was orthopedics (40.8%), followed by general surgery (29.2%) and vascular operations (10.0%). The majority of the patients were independent before operations (93.1% independent, 6% partially dependent, and 0.9% totally dependent). In regression analyses, patients who were partially dependent preoperatively had five times higher odds of discharging to nonhome, compared to patients who were independent (odds ratio [OR] 5.04, p < 0.01). Similarly, patients who were totally dependent had 3.2 higher odds of discharging to nonhome than patients who were independent (OR 3.22, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Better preoperative functional status is associated with patient discharge to home in older adults. Preoperative interventions aimed at improving functional status, such as prehabilitation, may be beneficial in improving patient outcomes.

Single-center experience of 105-minimalistc transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement and its outcome

INTRODUCTION

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) increases worldwide, and indications expand from high-risk aortic stenosis patients to low-risk aortic stenosis. Studies have shown that minimalistic TAVR done under conscious sedation is safe and effective. We report single-operator, the single-center outcome of 105 minimalist transfemoral, conscious sedation TAVR patients, analyzed retrospectively.

METHODS

All patients underwent TAVR in cardiac catheterization lab via percutaneous transfemoral, conscious sedation approach. A dedicated cardiac anesthetist team delivered the conscious sedation with a standard protocol described in the main text. The outcomes were analyzed as per VARC-2 criteria and compared with the latest low-risk TAVR trials.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement between July 2016 to February 2020. The mean age of the population was 73 years, and the mean STS score was 3.99 ± 2.59. All patients underwent a percutaneous transfemoral approach. Self-expanding valve was used in 40% of cases and balloon-expandable valve in 60% (Sapien3™ in 31% and MyVal™ in 29%) of cases. One patient required conversion to surgical aortic valve replacement. The success rate was 99 percent. The outcomes were: all-cause mortality: 0.9%, stroke rate 1.9%, New pacemaker rate 5.7%, 87.6% had no paravalvular leak. The mild and moderate paravalvular leak was seen in 2.8% and 1.9%, respectively. The mean gradient decreased from 47.5 mmHg to 9 mmHg. The average ICU stay was 26.4 h, and the average hospital stay was 5.4 days. Our outcomes are comparable with the latest published low-risk trial.

CONCLUSION

Minimalist, conscious sedation, transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement when done following a standard protocol is safe and effective.

"Keep Your Move in the Tube" safely increases discharge home following cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Restrictive sternal precautions intended to prevent cardiac surgery patients from damaging healing sternotomies lack supporting evidence and may decrease independence and increase postacute care utilization. Data regarding the impact of alternative approaches on safety and outcomes are needed to guide evidence-based best practices.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether an approach allowing greater freedom during activities of daily living than permitted under commonly used restrictive sternal precautions can safely decrease postacute care utilization.

DESIGN

Before-and-after study, using propensity score adjustment to account for differences in patient clinical and demographic characteristics, surgery type, and surgeon.

SETTING

600-bed acute care hospital.

INTERVENTION

Beginning March 2016, the acute care hospital replaced traditional weight- and time-based precautions given to patients who underwent median sternotomy with the "Keep Your Move in the Tube" (KMIT) approach for mindfully performing movements involved in the activities of daily living, guided by pain.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The study compared sternal wound complications, discharge disposition, 30-day readmission, and functional status between consecutive cardiac surgery patients with "independent" or "modified independent" preoperative functional status who underwent median sternotomy in the 1.5 years before (n = 627, standard precautions group) and after (n = 477, KMIT group) KMIT implementation.

RESULTS

The odds of discharge to home, versus to inpatient rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility, were ~3 times higher for KMIT than standard precautions patients (risk-adjusted odds ratio [rOR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.90, 1.95-4.32, and 3.03, 1.57-5.86, respectively). KMIT patients also had significantly higher odds of demonstrating "independent" or "modified independent" functional status on final inpatient physical therapy treatment for bed mobility (rOR, 95% CI = 7.51, 5.48-10.30) and transfers (rOR, 95% CI = 3.40, 2.62-4.42). No significant difference was observed in sternal wound complications (in-hospital or causing readmission) (rOR, 95% CI = 1.27, 0.52-3.09) or all-cause 30-day readmissions (rOR, 95% CI = 0.55, 0.23-1.33).

CONCLUSIONS

KMIT increases discharge-to-home for cardiac surgery patients without increasing risk for adverse events and reducing utilization of expensive institutional postacute care.

Risk scoring model for prediction of non-home discharge after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Background

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are likely to be discharged to a location other than home. We aimed to determine the association between preoperative risk factors and non-home discharge after TAVR.

Methods

Patients discharged alive after TAVR at three centers were identified from a prospectively maintained database randomly divided into 80% derivation and 20% validation cohorts. Logistic regression models were fit to identify preoperative factors associated with non-home discharge in the derivation cohort. Multivariable models were developed and a nomogram based risk-scoring system was developed for use in preoperative counseling.

Results

Between June 2012 and December 2018, a total of 1, 163 patients had TAVR at three centers. Thirty-seven patients who died before discharge were excluded. Of the remaining 1, 126 patients (97%) who were discharged alive, the incidence of non-home discharge was 25.6% (n = 289). The patient population was randomly divided into the 80% (n = 900) derivation cohort and 20% (n = 226) validation cohort. Mean ± SD age of the study population was 83 ± 8 years. In multivariable analysis, factors that were significantly associated with non-home discharge were extreme age, female sex, higher STS scores, use of general anesthesia, elective procedures, chronic liver disease, non-transfemoral approach and postoperative complications. The unbiased estimate of the C-index was 0.81 and the model had excellent calibration.

Conclusions

One out of every four patients undergoing TAVR is discharged to a location other than home. Identification of preoperative factors associated with non-home discharge can assist patient counseling and postoperative disposition planning.

Risk for non-home discharge following surgery for ischemic mitral valve disease

OBJECTIVES

To determine the frequency and risk factors for non-home discharge (NHD) and its association with clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL) at 1 year following cardiac surgery in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR).

METHODS

Discharge disposition was evaluated in 552 patients enrolled in trials of severe or moderate IMR. Patient and in-hospital factors associated with NHD were identified using logistic regression. Subsequently, association of NHD with 1-year mortality, serious adverse events (SAEs), and QOL was assessed.

RESULTS

NHD was observed in 30% (154/522) with 25% (n = 71/289) in moderate and 36% (n = 83/233) in patients with severe IMR (unadjusted P = .006), a difference not significant after including age (5-year change: adjusted odds ratio [adjOR], 1.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35-1.72; P < .001), diabetes (adjOR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.27-2.94; P = .002), and previous heart failure (adjOR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.06-2.52; P = .03). Odds of NHD were increased for patients with postoperative SAEs (adjOR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.19-2.86; P = .01) but not based on type of cardiac surgery. Greater rates of death and SAEs were observed in NHD patients at 1 year: adjusted hazard ratio, 4.29 (95% CI, 2.14-8.59; P < .001) and adjusted rate ratio, 1.45 (95% CI, 1.03-2.02; P = .03), respectively. QOL did not differ significantly between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

NHD is common following surgery for IMR, influenced by older age, diabetes, previous heart failure, and postoperative SAEs. These patients may be at greater risk of death and subsequent SAEs after discharge. Discussion of NHD with patients may have important implications for decision-making and guiding expectations following cardiac surgery.

Thirty-day readmissions after transcatheter versus surgical mitral valve repair in high-risk patients with mitral regurgitation: Analysis of the 2014-2015 Nationwide readmissions databases

OBJECTIVE

Determine the rates, reasons, predictors, and costs of 30-day readmissions following transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) versus surgical mitral valve repair (SMVR) in the United States.

BACKGROUND

Data on 30-day readmissions after TMVR are limited.

METHODS

High-risk patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) undergoing TMVR or SMVR were identified from the 2014-2015 Nationwide Readmissions Databases. Multivariable stepwise regression models were used to identify independent predictors of 30-day readmission. Risk of 30-day readmission was compared between the two groups using univariate and propensity score adjusted regression models.

RESULTS

Among 8,912 patients undergoing mitral valve repair during 2014-2015 (national estimate 17,809), we identified 7,510 (84.7%) that underwent SMVR and 1,402 (15.3%) that underwent TMVR. Thirty-day readmission rates after SMVR and TMVR were 10.7% and 11.7%, respectively (unadjusted OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.89-1.39, p = .35). After propensity score adjustment, TMVR was associated with a lower risk of 30-day readmissions compared with SMVR (adjusted OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.51-0.95, p = .02). Heart failure and arrhythmias were the leading cardiac reasons for readmission. Anemia and fluid and electrolyte disorder were independent predictors of 30-day readmission after TMVR. Demographics, comorbidities, and length of stay were independent predictors of 30-day readmission after SMVR.

CONCLUSIONS

One in 10 patients are readmitted within 30 days following TMVR or SMVR. Approximately half of the readmissions are for cardiac reasons. The predictors of 30-day readmission are different among patients undergoing TMVR and SMVR, but can be easily screened for to identify patients at highest risk for readmission.

Differences in Inpatient Outcomes After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement at Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Non-TAVR Centers

Background Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has solidified the importance of a heart team and revolutionized patient selection for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). It is unknown if hospital ability to offer TAVR impacts SAVR outcomes. We investigated outcomes after SAVR between TAVR and non-TAVR centers. Methods and Results Hospitalizations of patients aged ≥50 years, undergoing elective SAVR between January 2012 and September 2015, in the National Readmission Database (NRD) were included. Multivariable logistic, linear, and generalized logistic regression models were used to adjust for patient and hospital characteristics and estimate association between undergoing SAVR at a TAVR center, compared with a non-TAVR center. The association between TAVR volumes and these outcomes were also assessed. SAVR hospitalizations (n = 32 198) were identified; 22 066 (69%) at TAVR and 10 132 (31%) at non-TAVR centers. SAVRs at TAVR centers had lower odds of inpatient mortality (odds ratio 0.67, 95% CI 0.55-0.82) and discharge to skilled nursing facility (odds ratio 0.92, 95% CI 0.85-0.99), compared with non-TAVR centers. There was no difference in LOS (change in estimate -0.09, 95% CI -0.26 to 0.08) or 30-day re-admission (odds ratio 0.95, 95% CI 0.88-1.03). SAVRs performed at the highest TAVR volume centers had the lowest inpatient mortality, compared with non-TAVR centers (odds ratio 0.43 95% CI 0.29-0.63). Conclusions Patients undergoing SAVR at TAVR centers are more likely to survive and have better discharge disposition than patients undergoing SAVR at non-TAVR centers. Whether this represents benefits of a heart-team approach to care or differences in patient selection for SAVR when TAVR is unavailable requires further study.

Predictors of 30-day outcomes following mitral valve repair

INTRODUCTION

Mitral valve repair has been established as the preferred treatment option in the management of degenerative mitral valve disease. Compared with other surgical treatment options, mitral valve repair is associated with increased survival and decreased rates of both complications and reoperations. However, among patients undergoing mitral valve repair, little is known about the predictors of postoperative outcomes. The purpose of this study is to identify preoperative patient risk factors associated with postoperative morbidity and mortality within 30 days of mitral valve repair.

METHODS

Data was derived from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database to assess patients who underwent mitral valve repair from 2011 through 2017. Preoperative risk factors were analyzed to determine their association with a variety of postoperative 30-day outcome measures.

RESULTS

One thousand three hundred and sixty-six patients underwent mitral valve repair; 849 (62.2%) males and 517 (37.8%) females. Ages ranged from 18 to 90 years, with a mean age of 64 years. The overall 30-day mortality was 3.1% (43 patients). Among the 12 identified risk factors associated with increased mortality on univariate analysis, pre-operative hematocrit level was the only variable significantly correlated with mortality after undergoing multivariate analysis. 259 patients (19.1%) were discharged to a location other than home, an outcome associated with 22 identified risk factors. Among these risk factors, female gender, age, dialysis, pre-operative serum sodium, pre-operative serum albumin, and partial or full living dependency remained statistically significant following multivariate analysis. 126 patients (9.2%) experienced unplanned readmission. This outcome was associated with five risk factors, of which only dyspnea upon mild exertion was significant on multivariate analysis. Reoperation occurred in 105 patients (7.7%). Of the seven identified variables associated with reoperation, patient age, pre-operative platelet count, dyspnea upon mild exertion were independent predictors on multivariate analysis. 53 patients (3.9%) underwent reintubation, which was associated with 11 identified risk factors. Among them, patient age and pre-operative INR value were predictive of reintubation on multivariate analysis. 26 patients (1.9%) experienced stroke, of whom age was the only associated risk factor on both univariate and multivariate analysis. 31 patients (2.3%) experienced acute renal failure, which correlated with 11 risk factors on univariate analysis. Of these, only patient age and pre-operative hematocrit were identified as independent predictors on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes are good following mitral valve repair. Although a substantial number of risk factors were found to be associated with adverse outcomes, only a small subset remained statistically significant following multivariate analysis. Identification of these risk factors may help guide clinical decision making with respect to which patients are the best candidates to undergo mitral valve repair.

Discharge disposition of older patients undergoing trans-catheter aortic valve replacement and its impact on survival

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are likely to be discharged to a location other than home. We aimed to assess the association between discharge disposition after TAVR and patient survival at 1 year.

METHODS

Patients admitted from home and survived till discharge after TAVR were divided into two groups based on discharge disposition (home discharge vs. non-home discharge). Pre-operative factors predicting the odds of not being discharged home were identified by using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Study patients were matched one-to-one via a propensity scoring method. Differences in procedural outcomes were compared. Survival of both unmatched and matched pairs was evaluated by using the Kaplan-Meier method with the Kleine-Moesch-Berger stratified log-rank test.

RESULTS

Out of 1,160 TAVR patients, 851 were admitted from home and survived till discharge. The incidence non-home discharge was 19% (n = 159). Factors that were significantly associated with non-home discharge were older age, non-transfemoral approach, female sex, frailty status, history of chronic lung disease, pacemaker placement and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. One-to-one propensity score matching resulted in 141 patient pairs with similar age, operative risk, frailty and functional status. At 1-year follow-up, all-cause mortality rates were significantly higher in the non-home group than their home counterparts (18% vs. 3%, P = 0.006; stratified log rank test: P = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

A considerable number of TAVR patients are discharged to a location other than home after the procedure. Not being discharged home after TAVR is associated with a high mortality risk at 1 year.

Length of Stay and Discharge Disposition After Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in the United States

BACKGROUND

As transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) extends its reach to lower surgical risk patients, the differences between resource utilization for TAVR and surgical AVR (SAVR) will become increasingly important.

METHODS AND RESULTS

AVR procedures between January 2012 and September 2015 at hospitals performing TAVR were identified using the National Inpatient Sample databases. Adults aged ≥50 years with aortic stenosis who underwent isolated TAVR or SAVR were eligible for inclusion. Standardized morbidity ratio weights were calculated using patient demographics, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. Weighted linear and generalized logistic regression models were used to estimate the effect of undergoing TAVR, compared with undergoing SAVR, on length of stay (LOS) and discharge disposition. In TAVR-performing hospitals, 7266 (40%) patients underwent TAVR (6107 endovascular approach and 1159 transapical approach), while 10 833 (60%) underwent isolated SAVR. Patients undergoing TAVR were older, more likely to be female, and had more comorbidities. From 2012 to 2015, average LOS declined for both TAVR (6.3 days to 4.6 days; P<0.0001) and SAVR (7.5 days to 6.8 days; P<0.0001), with greater reduction in the TAVR group ( P<0.0001). An increase in home/home health discharge was noted with TAVR (67.7%-77.4%; P<0.0001) but not with SAVR (76.8%-79.5%; P=0.25). After standardizing, patients undergoing TAVR had significantly shorter LOS (change in estimate, -2.93, 95% CI, -3.26 to -2.60) and lower incidence of transfer to skilled nursing facility (odds ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.40-0.51) but no difference in in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.61-1.20) compared with if they had undergone SAVR. As compared with SAVR, patients who had TAVR performed via an endovascular approach had shorter LOS and lower rates of skilled nursing facility transfer, whereas in the transapical cohort, LOS, and skilled nursing facility transfer were similar to SAVR.

CONCLUSIONS

As compared with if they undergo SAVR, patients undergoing TAVR (by a nontransapical approach) had a shorter LOS and higher likelihood of home discharge, as opposed to skilled nursing facility. From 2012 to 2015, there was a greater trend towards a reduction of LOS and more home discharges among TAVR, as opposed to SAVR. These data have important implications in the era of constrained resources with a growing emphasis on reducing health care costs.

Factors Associated with Discharge to a Skilled Nursing Facility after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Surgery

An assumption regarding transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure for treating aortic stenosis, is that patients remain at, or near baseline and soon return to their presurgical home to resume activities of daily living. However, this does not consistently occur. The purpose of this study was to identify preoperative factors that optimally predict discharge to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) after TAVR. Delineation of these conditions is an important step in developing a risk stratification model to assist in making informed decisions. Data was extracted from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) transcatheter valve therapy (TVT) registry and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database on 285 patients discharged from 2012⁻2017 at a tertiary referral heart institute located in the southeastern region of the United States. An analysis of assessment, clinical and demographic variables was used to estimate relative risk (RR) of discharge to a SNF. The majority of participants were female (55%) and white (84%), with a median age of 82 years (interquartile range = 9). Approximately 27% (n = 77) were discharged to a SNF. Age > 75 years (RR = 2.3, p = 0.0026), female (RR = 1.6, p = 0.019), 5-meter walk test (5MWT) >7 s (RR = 2.0, p = 0.0002) and not using home oxygen (RR = 2.9, p = 0.0084) were identified as independent predictive factors for discharge to a SNF. We report a parsimonious risk-stratification model that estimates the probability of being discharged to a SNF following TAVR. Our findings will facilitate making informed treatment decisions regarding this older patient population.

Perspectives of Post-Acute Transition of Care for Cardiac Surgery Patients

Post-acute care (PAC) facilities improve patient recovery, as measured by activities of daily living, rehabilitation, hospital readmission, and survival rates. Seamless transitions between discharge and PAC settings continue to be challenges that hamper patient outcomes, specifically problems with effective communication and coordination between hospitals and PAC facilities at patient discharge, patient adherence and access to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) services, caregiver burden, and the financial impact of care. The objective of this review is to examine existing models of cardiac transitional care, identify major challenges and social factors that affect PAC, and analyze the impact of current transitional care efforts and strategies implemented to improve health outcomes in this patient population. We intend to discuss successful methods to address the following aspects: hospital-PAC linkages, improved discharge planning, caregiver burden, and CR access and utilization through patient-centered programs. Regular home visits by healthcare providers result in decreased hospital readmission rates for patients utilizing home healthcare while improved hospital-PAC linkages reduced hospital readmissions by 25%. We conclude that widespread adoption of improvements in transitional care will play a key role in patient recovery and decrease hospital readmission, morbidity, and mortality.

Acute kidney injury in octogenarians after heart valve replacement surgery: a study of two periods over the last decade

Background

Data on postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in octogenarians are limited. This study examines the AKI occurrence and clinical impact in octogenarians following open-heart valve replacement surgery in two periods over the last 15 years.

Methods

A total of 452 consecutive octogenarians (non–kidney transplant and non-dialysis) who underwent heart valve replacement at the Mayo Clinic during the years 2011–13 (contemporary cohort) were examined. The results were compared with a comparable 209 consecutive octogenarians in 2002–03 (past cohort). Pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD) was defined based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration formula). Outcomes included postoperative AKI defined by the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria, length of hospital stay (LOS), discharge disposition and patient survival (hospital and 1 year).

Results

AKI occurrence in the contemporary cohort was lower than the past cohort (35% versus 47%, respectively, P < 0.003). Compared with the past cohort, the contemporary cohort had fewer known perioperative AKI risk factors (pre-existing CKD, comorbidity, heart failure, surgical duration, cross-clamp time, blood transfusion and large-volume intravenous fluids). In both periods, AKI adversely impacts mortality, LOS and discharge to a care facility.

Conclusions

Postoperative AKI in octogenarians following heart valve replacement surgery has declined over the last decade. As a result, the AKI-attributable percentage mortality has accordingly decreased. However, AKI continues to exert a heavy morbidity and mortality burden. These results are highly pertinent to practice since the octogenarian population is growing.

Chloride alterations in hospitalized patients: Prevalence and outcome significance

Serum Cl (sCl) alterations in hospitalized patients have not been comprehensively studied in recent years. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and outcome significance of (1) sCl alterations on hospital admission, and (2) sCl evolution within the first 48 hr of hospital admission. We conducted a retrospective study of all hospital admissions in the years 2011–2013 at Mayo Clinic Rochester, a 2000-bed tertiary medical center. Outcome measures included hospital mortality, length of hospital stay and discharge disposition. 76,719 unique admissions (≥18 years old) were studied. Based on hospital mortality, sCl in the range of 105–108 mmol/L was found to be optimal. sCl <100 (n = 13,611) and >108 (n = 11,395) mmol/L independently predicted a higher risk of hospital mortality, longer hospital stay and being discharged to a care facility. 13,089 patients (17.1%) had serum anion gap >12 mmol/L; their hospital mortality, when compared to 63,630 patients (82.9%) with anion gap ≤12 mmol/L, was worse. Notably, patients with elevated anion gap displayed a progressively worsening mortality with rising sCl. sCl elevation within 48 hr of admission was associated with a higher proportion of 0.9% saline administration and was an independent predictor for hospital mortality. Moreover, the magnitude of sCl rise was inversely correlated to the days of patient survival. In conclusion, serum Cl alterations on admission predict poor clinical outcomes. Post-admission sCl increase, due to Cl-rich fluid infusion, independently predicts hospital mortality. These results raise a critical question of whether iatrogenic cause of hyperchloremia should be avoided, a question to be addressed by future prospective studies.

Heart valve disease in elderly Chinese population: effect of advanced age and comorbidities on treatment decision-making and outcomes

Background

A considerable proportion of elderly patients with symptomatic severe heart valve disease are treated conservatively despite clear indications for surgical intervention. However, little is known about how advanced age and comorbidities affect treatment decision-making and therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

Patients (n = 234, mean age: 78.5 ± 3.7 years) with symptomatic severe heart valve disease hospitalized in our center were included. One hundred and fifty-one patients (65%) were treated surgically (surgical group) and 83 (35%) were treated conservatively (conservative group). Factors that affected therapeutic decision-making and treatment outcomes were investigated and long-term survival was explored.

Results

Isolated aortic valve disease, female sex, chronic renal insufficiency, aged ≥ 80 years, pneumonia, and emergent status were independent factors associated with therapeutic decision-making. In-hospital mortality for the surgical group was 5.3% (8/151). Three patients (3.6%) in the conservative group died during initial hospitalization. Low cardiac output syndrome and chronic renal insufficiency were identified as predictors of in-hospital mortality in the surgical group. Conservative treatment was identified as the single risk factor for late death in the entire study population. The surgical group had better 5-year (77.2% vs. 45.4%, P < 0.0001) and 10-year (34.5% vs. 8.9%, P < 0.0001) survival rates than the conservative group, even when adjusted by propensity score-matched analysis.

Conclusions

Advanced age and geriatric comorbidities profoundly affect treatment decision-making for severe heart valve disease. Valve surgery in the elderly was not only safe but was also associated with good long-term survival while conservative treatment was unfavorable for patients with symptomatic severe valve disease.

Therapeutic Decision-Making for Elderly Patients With Symptomatic Severe Valvular Heart Diseases

The aim of this study was to determine how older age and co-morbidities affect the treatment decision-making and long-term survival in elderly patients with symptomatic severe valvular heart diseases.A total of 181 elderly patients (mean age, 78.4 ± 3.4 years) hospitalized between January 2003 and June 2012 with symptomatic severe valvular heart diseases were enrolled. Cardiac and geriatric factors associated with treatment decision-making were analyzed. Survival outcomes were investigated.Surgical treatment was performed in 116 (64%) patients (surgical group) and 65 patients (36%) were treated conservatively (conservative group). The most common [62% (40/65)] reason for refusing surgical treatment was high operative risk as assessed by the physicians who initially cared for the patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified female gender, chronic renal insufficiency, older age, pneumonia, and emergent status as independent predictors of the conservative treatment. Patients with isolated aortic valve disease tended to undergo an operation. Overall 5-year survival in the surgical group was 76.8% versus 42.9% in the conservative group (P < 0.0001). After matching using the propensity score, the surgical group still had a better long-term survival than the conservative group (P = 0.001). Cox regression analysis revealed conservative treatment as the single risk factor associated with poor long-term survival in all series.Approximately 40% of the elderly patients with symptomatic severe heart valve disease were treated conservatively despite a definite indication for surgical intervention. Cardiac and geriatric co-morbidities profoundly affect the treatment decision-making. Interdisciplinary discussion should be encouraged to optimize therapeutic options for elderly patients with valvular heart disease.

Dysmagnesemia in Hospitalized Patients: Prevalence and Prognostic Importance

OBJECTIVE

To examine the prevalence of serum magnesium (Mg) alterations and outcomes in hospitalized patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All admissions to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, from January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2013 (288,120 patients), were screened. Admission Mg from each unique patient and relevant clinical data were extracted from the institutional electronic database.

RESULTS

After excluding patients aged less than 18 years, those without Mg measurement, and readmission episodes, a total of 65,974 patients were studied. Magnesium levels of 2.1 mg/dL or higher were found in 20,777 patients (31.5%), and levels less than 1.7 mg/dL were noted in 13,320 (20.2%). Hypomagnesemia was common in patients with hematologic/oncological disorders, and hypermagnesemia was common in those with cardiovascular disease. The lowest hospital mortality, assessed by restricted cubic spline and percentage death, occurred in patients with Mg levels between 1.7 and 1.89 mg/dL. An Mg level of less than 1.7 mg/dL was independently associated with an increased risk of hospital mortality after adjusting for all variables except the admission diagnosis; risk for longer hospital stay and being discharged to a care facility were increased in the fully adjusted model. An elevated Mg level of 2.3 mg/dL or higher was a predictor for all adverse outcomes. The magnitude of Mg elevations in patients with levels of 2.3 mg/dL or higher (N=7908) was associated with worse hospital mortality in a dose-response manner. In patients with cardiovascular diseases, Mg levels of 1.5 to 1.69 mg/dL and 2.3 mg/dL or higher both independently predicted poor outcomes including hospital mortality.

CONCLUSION

Dysmagnesemia in hospitalized patients is common, with hypermagnesemia being most prevalent. Compared with hypomagnesemia, hypermagnesemia is a stronger predictor for poor outcomes. Magnesium supplementation for patients without Mg deficiency should be avoided in the absence of randomized controlled trials documenting a benefit.

The impact of age and severity of comorbid illness on outcomes after isolated aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis

OBJECTIVES

This study examines outcomes in a national sample of patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic stenosis, with particular focus on advanced-age patients and those with extreme severity of comorbid illness (SOI).

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample and included all patients undergoing AVRs performed from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2008. Patients with major concomitant cardiac procedures, as well as those aged, 20 years, and those with infective endocarditis or aortic insufficiency without aortic stenosis, were excluded from analysis. The analysis included 13,497 patients. Patients were stratified by age and further stratified by All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Group SOI into mild/moderate, major, and extreme subgroups.

RESULTS

Overall in-hospital mortality was 2.96% (n=399); in-hospital mortality for the ≥80-year-old group (n=139, 4.78%) was significantly higher than the 20- to 49-year-old (n=9, 0.84%, P<0.001) or 50- to 79-year-old (n=251, 2.64%, P<0.001) groups. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in the extreme SOI group (n=296, 15.33%) than in the minor/moderate (n=22, 0.35%, P<0.001) and major SOI groups (n=81, 1.51%, P<0.001). Median in-hospital costs in the mild/moderate, major, and extreme SOI strata were $29,202.08, $36,035.13, and $57,572.92, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In the minor, moderate, and major SOI groups, in-hospital mortality and costs are low regardless of age; these groups represent >85% of patients undergoing isolated AVR for aortic stenosis. Conversely, in patients classified as having extreme SOI, surgical therapy is associated with exceedingly high inpatient mortality, low home discharge rates, and high resource utilization, particularly in the advanced age group.

Incidence, Severity, and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury in Octogenarians following Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

Background. The study investigates the occurrence, severity, and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in octogenarians following heart valve surgery. Methods. All patients, age >80 years, not on dialysis and without kidney transplant, undergoing heart valve replacement at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, in the years 2002-2003 were enrolled. AKI was diagnosed based on AKIN criteria. Results. 209 octogenarians (88.0% aortic valve, 6.2% mitral valve, 1.0% tricuspid valve, and 4.8% multivalve) with (58.4%) and without CABG were studied. 34 (16.3%) had preexisting CKD. After surgery, 98 (46.8%) developed AKI. 76.5% of the AKI were in Stage 1, 9.2% in Stage 2, and 14.3% in Stage 3. 76.5% CKD patients developed AKI. Length of hospital stay was longer for AKI patients. More AKI patients were discharged to care facilities. Patient survival at 30 days and 1 year for AKI versus non-AKI was 88.8 versus 98.7%, p = 0.003, and 76.5 versus 88.3%, p = 0.025, respectively. With follow-up of 3.94 ± 0.28 years, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a reduced survival for AKI octogenarians. Preexisting CKD and large volume intraoperative fluid administration were independent AKI predictors. Conclusions. Nearly half of the octogenarians developed AKI after valve replacement surgery. AKI was associated with significant functional impairment and reduced survival.

Functional recovery in the elderly after major surgery: assessment of mobility recovery using wireless technology

PURPOSE

Hospitalization and surgery in older patients often leads to a loss of strength, mobility, and functional capacity. We tested the hypothesis that wireless accelerometry could be used to measure mobility during hospital recovery after cardiac surgery.

DESCRIPTION

We used an off-the-shelf fitness monitor to measure daily mobility in patients after surgery. Data were transmitted wirelessly, aggregated, and configured onto a provider-viewable dashboard.

EVALUATION

Wireless monitoring of mobility after major surgery was easy and practical. There was a significant relationship between the number of steps taken in the early recovery period, length of stay, and dismissal disposition.

CONCLUSIONS

Wireless monitoring of mobility after major surgery creates an opportunity for early identification and intervention in individual patients and could serve as a tool to evaluate and improve the process of care and to affect postdischarge outcomes.

Mitral valve surgery in elderly patients with mitral regurgitation: repair or replacement with tissue valve?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The fastest growing demographic in North America is the elderly. Significant mitral regurgitation is present in more than 10% of this population. There are sparse clinical data to inform decisions regarding the optimal timing of operation and the appropriate operative intervention for this large population of patients with severe mitral regurgitation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Mitral valve surgery can be safely performed in most elderly patients with severe mitral regurgitation. The best outcomes occur when operative intervention is performed early, before advanced symptoms of heart failure develop. In elderly patients with mitral regurgitation, mitral valve repair is associated with superior early and late results compared with replacement. Survival after mitral valve repair among elderly patients is equivalent to a normal age-matched population.

SUMMARY

Elderly patients with severe mitral regurgitation should be referred for operation before significant symptoms develop. Mitral valve repair is favoured over replacement whenever feasible and is associated with satisfactory early and long-term results. If repair is impossible or the likelihood of durable repair seems low, valve replacement with a bioprosthetic valve should be performed. Further prospective clinical trials are essential to define the role of screening for this prevalent condition and to identify which subgroups of elderly patients will benefit most from early surgical intervention.