STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database: 2021 Update on Outcomes, Quality, and Research

The left atrial appendage exclusion for prophylactic stroke reduction (LEAAPS) trial: Rationale and design

INTRODUCTION

Left atrial appendage exclusion (LAAE) has been shown in randomized trials to reduce ischemic stroke risk in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with known atrial fibrillation (AF). Many patients undergoing cardiac surgery without pre-existing AF are at risk of stroke and may benefit from LAAE.

METHODS

Left Atrial Appendage Exclusion for Prophylactic Stroke Reduction (LeAAPS) is an international, prospective, randomized, multicenter, blinded trial evaluating the effectiveness of LAAE in preventing ischemic stroke or systemic embolism in patients undergoing cardiac surgery at increased risk of AF and ischemic stroke. The trial will enroll 6500 patients at increased risk of stroke in whom a cardiac surgery is planned at 250 sites worldwide. Eligible patients are ≥18 years old, have no pre-existing AF but are at increased risk for AF and stroke (based on age, CHA2DS2-VASc score, left atrium size or brain natriuretic peptide). Patients are randomized 1:1 to receive either LAAE with AtriClip or no LAAE during cardiac surgery. Healthcare providers outside of the operating room and the patient will be blinded to allocation. The primary effectiveness endpoint is the first occurrence of ischemic stroke, systemic arterial embolism, or surgical or endovascular LAA closure. The powered secondary effectiveness endpoint is ischemic stroke or systemic arterial embolism. The primary safety endpoint is the occurrence of one of the following events (through 30 days): pericardial effusion requiring percutaneous or surgical treatment, peri-operative major bleeding, deep sternal wound infection, or myocardial infarction. Other endpoints include mortality, rehospitalizations, clinically diagnosed AF, transient ischemic attack, and cognitive and quality of life assessments. Follow-up is every 6 months for a minimum of 5 years; primary analysis occurs when 469 patients have had an ischemic stroke or systemic embolism.

CONCLUSION

The results of the LeAAPS trial will demonstrate whether LAAE with AtriClip at the time of other routine cardiac surgery reduces stroke or systemic arterial embolism during long-term follow-up in patients at high risk of stroke without pre-existing AF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT05478304, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05478304?term=%20NCT05478304&rank=1.

Decade-long variation in the development of complications after cardiac surgery across the United States

BACKGROUND

Interhospital variation in complications after cardiac surgery may reflect differences in quality across centers. Although these differences have been observed for years, changes in variation over time have not been quantified. In the present study, we assessed trends in center-level variation of major adverse events after cardiac surgery and associations with hospital volume.

METHODS

Adult (≥18 years) hospitalizations entailing elective cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repair/replacement) were identified in the 2012-2021 National Inpatient Sample. Hospitals were stratified into quartiles using annual cardiac case volume. Major adverse events was defined as in-hospital mortality or any complication (cardiac, respiratory, stroke, infectious, thromboembolic, intraoperative). A hierarchical logistic regression model evaluated the variation in major adverse events attributable to hospital effects.

RESULTS

Of 1,816,755 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, 28.5% experienced major adverse events. Rates of major adverse events decreased over the study period from 33.3% (2012) to 23.3% (2021). Variation of major adverse events attributable to hospital effects was 7.3%. Major adverse event rates decreased at centers in the greatest-volume quartile (33.5 to 22.8%) and the lowest (37.5 to 36.0%) from 2012 to 2021 (both nptrend <0.001). The overall spread in unadjusted major adverse events rate by center decreased from a standard deviation of 15.7% in 2012 to 13.0% in 2021 (nptrend <0.001). After multivariable risk adjustment, the decrease in center-level variation of major adverse events persisted (standard deviation 6.9% in 2012 to 5.6% in 2021; nptrend <0.001).

CONCLUSION

Interhospital variation in major adverse events declined significantly over the decade. Future efforts should focus on underperforming centers to improve consistency in cardiac surgery outcomes.

The Effects of Dexamethasone in Cardiac Surgery: A Registry-Based, Real-World Data Analysis of Clinical Outcomes From the Netherlands Heart Registration

BACKGROUND

In cardiac surgery, modulating the inflammatory response with prophylactic steroids may reduce morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the association of dexamethasone use with clinical outcomes and its variation in clinical practice in a real-world setting.

METHODS

This retrospective, population-based study evaluated data of elective and urgent to on-pump cardiac surgery patients from the Netherlands Heart Registration between 2013 and 2021. Patients who received perioperative dexamethasone were compared to those who did not. The primary outcomes were 30-day mortality and a composite of 30-day mortality, in-hospital stroke, and 30-day renal or respiratory failure. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the composite outcome, a composite of infection-related outcomes, arrhythmias, and length of hospital stay. Propensity score matching was applied to adjust for confounders. Clinical practice variation was assessed through a national survey of Dutch cardiac anesthesiologists.

RESULTS

In the study, 54,694 patients were included, with 40,891 patients (74.8%) receiving dexamethasone. After propensity score matching, dexamethasone use was associated with a lower risk of the composite clinical outcome (odds ratio [OR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72-0.92, P < .001), with a significant reduction in renal failure (OR 0.57, 95% CI, 0.47-0.70, P < .001). The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter (B -0.17, 95% CI, -0.32 to -0.02, P = .025). Other individual components of the composite outcome and secondary outcomes did not show a significant association with dexamethasone use. However, in patients >80 years, dexamethasone use was associated with increased 30-day mortality (OR 1.52, 95% CI, 1.01-2.28, P = .044). The observed benefits were consistent across other demographic and clinical subgroups. The survey indicated substantial variability in dexamethasone use across centers and anesthesiologists.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic dexamethasone during adult cardiac surgery was associated with reduced composite clinical outcomes, renal failure, and shorter hospital stays, and seemed associated with 30-day mortality in patients >80 years old.

The burden of major complications on failure to rescue after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection: Analysis of more than 19,000 patients

BACKGROUND

The relationship between the number and type of postoperative complications and mortality in the setting for surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) remains underexplored despite its critical role in the failure-to-rescue (FTR) metric.

METHODS

This retrospective study used data from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgical Database on ATAAD surgeries performed between January 2018 and December 2022. Patients were categorized based on their number of major complications. The primary outcome was FTR. We used multilevel regression and classification and regression tree models.

RESULTS

We included 19,243 patients (33% females), with a median age of 61 years. Regarding complications, 47.7% of patients had 0, 20.2% had 1, 12.7% had 2, and 19.4% experienced 3 or more. The most frequently reported complications were prolonged mechanical ventilation (30.3%), unplanned reoperation (19.5%), and renal failure (17.2%). Cardiac arrest occurred in 7.1% of cases. FTR increased from 13% in patients with 1 complication to >30% in those with 4 or more complications. Cardiac arrest (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 10.9) and renal failure (aOR, 5.3) had the highest odds for mortality, followed by limb ischemia (aOR, 2.7), stroke (aOR, 2.6), and gastrointestinal complications (aOR, 2.4). Hospitals in the top performance quartile consistently showed lower FTR rates across all levels of complication.

CONCLUSIONS

The study validates a dose-response association between postoperative complications and mortality in patients undergoing surgery for ATAAD. Top-performing hospitals consistently show lower FTR rates independent of the number of complications. Future research should focus on the timing of complications and interventions to reduce the burden of complications.

Clinical and subclinical acute brain injury caused by invasive cardiovascular procedures

Over the past 50 years, the number and invasiveness of percutaneous cardiovascular procedures globally have increased substantially. However, cardiovascular interventions are inherently associated with a risk of acute brain injury, both periprocedurally and postprocedurally, which impairs medical outcomes and increases health-care costs. Current international clinical guidelines generally do not cover the area of acute brain injury related to cardiovascular invasive procedures. In this international Consensus Statement, we compile the available knowledge (including data on prevalence, pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical presentation and management) to formulate consensus recommendations on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of acute brain injury caused by cardiovascular interventions. We also identify knowledge gaps and possible future directions in clinical research into acute brain injury related to cardiovascular interventions.

The First International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) Standard Dataset for Reporting Outcomes in Heart Valve Disease: Moving From Device- to Patient-Centered Outcomes: Developed by a multisociety taskforce coordinated by the Heart Valve Society (HVS) including the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), the Australian & New Zealand Society of Cardiac & Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS), the International Society for Applied Cardiovascular Biology (ISACB), the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS), the South African Heart Association (SHA), Heart Valve Voice, and Global Heart Hub

BACKGROUND

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

METHODS

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

RESULTS

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Intermacs Database Risk Model for Durable Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

BACKGROUND

Statistical risk models for durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation inform candidate selection, quality improvement, and evaluation of provider performance. This study developed a 90-day mortality risk model using The Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Intermacs Database (STS Intermacs).

METHODS

STS Intermacs was queried for primary durable LVAD implants from January 2019 to September 2023. Multivariable logistic regression was used to derive a model based on preimplant risk factors by using derivation (2019-2021 implants) and validation (2022-2023 implants) cohorts. Model performance (derivation and validation cohorts) was assessed using C-statistics, Brier scores, and calibration plots. A refined model (all patients) was generated to calculate observed-to-expected (O/E; 95% CI) ratios for each center.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 11,342 patients from 2019 to 2023 who were sequentially divided in time into derivation (n = 6775) and validation (n = 4567) cohorts. Ninety-day mortality was 8.0% (9.2% in the derivation cohort vs 7.4% in the validation cohort; P = .001). Logistic regression applied to derivation and validation cohorts produced similar discrimination (area under the curve [AUC], 0.714 [95% CI, 0.69-0.74]; and AUC, 0.707; [95% CI, 0.67-0.72], respectively) and calibration (Brier score, .08 vs .07), with overestimation of risk among patients with a predicted risk >0.4. The O/E analysis identified 22 (12.5%) centers with worse than expected mortality with a 95% CI >1.0 and 14 centers (8.0%) with better than expected mortality with a 95% CI <1.0 (all P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The STS Intermacs risk model demonstrated satisfactory discrimination and calibration. This tool may be used to inform candidate selection, facilitate quality improvement, and assess provider performance.

Home-Based Physiotherapy Programme Reduces Hospital Stay and Costs in Cardiac Surgery. A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cardiac surgery enhances cardiovascular disease (CVD) patient survival rates, and the fast-track protocol can reduce complications, hospital length of stay (HLOS) and associated costs. However, there is no evidence on the effectiveness of unsupervised physiotherapy programmes in reducing HLOS and postoperative pulmonary complications in patients undergoing fast-track surgery. The study aimed to determine if a pre-surgical respiratory programme reduces intensive care unit length of stay (ICULOS) and HLOS patients undergoing fast-track surgery, and its effects on post-operative complications and healthcare costs.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational cohort study. The patients were divided into two groups: those who followed the exercise programme (pre-hab group) and those who did not (no pre-hab group). The study analysed the mean of ICULOS and HLOS for each group, recorded post-operative complications, and calculated healthcare costs using the Spanish Ministry of Health cost tables.

RESULTS

A total of 418 patients participated in the study with a mean age of 70.44 (10.87) years. The study found significant differences in HLOS (p = 0.001) and ICULOS (p = 0.003) between groups. Pre-hab HLOS was 232.8 (221.3) hours in the hospital, whereas no pre-hab LOS increased to 315.1 (277.9) hours. Pre-hab ICULOS was 82.0 (129.8) hours when No pre-hab ICULOS accounted 120.2 (190.3) hours. This reduction in hospital admissions resulted in savings of €356,107.16 in average healthcare costs for the pre-hab group. Mortality risk (p = 0.034) was also reduced in the pre-hab group (17.7% vs. 26.65% in the no pre-hab group).

DISCUSSION

An unsupervised home-based respiratory programme reduces hospital and ICU stay, healthcare costs, post-surgical pulmonary complications, and mortality risk. The clinical application of an unsupervised home-based pre-habilitation programme, focussing on ventilatory exercises and costal expansion techniques, has proven effective in enhancing patient recovery post-cardiac surgery, offering significant healthcare cost savings, and reducing the burden on hospital resources.

The Appraisal of Adults with Congenital Heart Disease: Lesson from Comparison of Surgical Outcomes

The population of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) is constantly growing. There seems to be a consensus that these patients are difficult to manage especially if compared to patients with acquired heart disease. The aim of this study is to compare outcomes and results of cardiac surgery in ACHD patients with a reference population of adults with acquired cardiac disease. Retrospective study of 5053 consecutive patients older than 18 years hospitalized for cardiac surgery during a 5-years period in our Institution. Two groups of patients were identified. Group I: 419 patients operated for congenital heart disease; Group II: 4634 patients operated for acquired heart disease. In each Group were identified low, medium, and high-risk patients, according to validated scores. Right ventricular outflow tract surgery was the most frequent procedure in Group I, while coronary artery by-pass grafting was the most common in Group II. Patients with ACHD were younger (37.8 vs. 67.7 years), with higher number of previous operations (32.1% vs. 6.9%), had longer post-ICU hospital stay (11 vs. 8 days) but had lower ICU stay (1 vs. 2 days), shorter assisted mechanical ventilation (12 vs. 14 h) and lower surgical mortality (1 vs. 3.7%) (all p < 0.001). No differences were found in term of post-operative complications (12.4 vs. 15%). The surgical treatment of ACHD patients can be done with excellent results and if compared with acquired cardiac disease patients they have better results with shorter ICU stay and lower mortality.

The First International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) Standard Dataset for Reporting Outcomes in Heart Valve Disease: Moving From Device- to Patient-Centered Outcomes: Developed by a multisociety taskforce coordinated by the Heart Valve Society (HVS) including the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), the Australian & New Zealand Society of Cardiac & Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS), the International Society for Applied Cardiovascular Biology (ISACB), the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS), the South African Heart Association (SHA), Heart Valve Voice, and Global Heart Hub

Background

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

Methods

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

Results

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

Conclusions

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

The First International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) Standard Dataset for Reporting Outcomes in Heart Valve Disease: Moving From Device- to Patient-Centered Outcomes: Developed by a multisociety taskforce coordinated by the Heart Valve Society (HVS) including the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), the Australian & New Zealand Society of Cardiac & Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS), the International Society for Applied Cardiovascular Biology (ISACB), the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS), the South African Heart Association (SHA), Heart Valve Voice, and Global Heart Hub

BACKGROUND

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

METHODS

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

RESULTS

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

State-of-the-Art Review: Advantages and Disadvantages of Femoral Versus Central Cannulation

The choice of cannulation technique for cardiopulmonary bypass remains a critical decision in cardiac surgery with direct consequences for intraoperative management and patient outcomes. Central and femoral cannulation represent the 2 dominant approaches, each associated with unique anatomical considerations, hemodynamic implications, and perioperative risks. The correct selection of a cannulation strategy should limit the risk of embolic events and associated complications such as vascular injury and stroke. The purpose of this review is to provide a detailed comparison of central and femoral cannulation techniques, with an emphasis on clinical scenarios and outcomes, recent innovations, and state-of-the-art technology. By critically analyzing current evidence, we aim to offer insights into the optimal cannulation strategy tailored to specific patients.

A novel generative multi-task representation learning approach for predicting postoperative complications in cardiac surgery patients

OBJECTIVE

Early detection of surgical complications allows for timely therapy and proactive risk mitigation. Machine learning (ML) can be leveraged to identify and predict patient risks for postoperative complications. We developed and validated the effectiveness of predicting postoperative complications using a novel surgical Variational Autoencoder (surgVAE) that uncovers intrinsic patterns via cross-task and cross-cohort presentation learning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the electronic health records of adult surgical patients over 4 years (2018-2021). Six key postoperative complications for cardiac surgery were assessed: acute kidney injury, atrial fibrillation, cardiac arrest, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, blood transfusion, and other intraoperative cardiac events. We compared surgVAE's prediction performance against widely-used ML models and advanced representation learning and generative models under 5-fold cross-validation.

RESULTS

89 246 surgeries (49% male, median [IQR] age: 57 [45-69]) were included, with 6502 in the targeted cardiac surgery cohort (61% male, median [IQR] age: 60 [53-70]). surgVAE demonstrated generally superior performance over existing ML solutions across postoperative complications of cardiac surgery patients, achieving macro-averaged AUPRC of 0.409 and macro-averaged AUROC of 0.831, which were 3.4% and 3.7% higher, respectively, than the best alternative method (by AUPRC scores). Model interpretation using Integrated Gradients highlighted key risk factors based on preoperative variable importance.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our advanced representation learning framework surgVAE showed excellent discriminatory performance for predicting postoperative complications and addressing the challenges of data complexity, small cohort sizes, and low-frequency positive events. surgVAE enables data-driven predictions of patient risks and prognosis while enhancing the interpretability of patient risk profiles.

The First International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) Standard Dataset for Reporting Outcomes in Heart Valve Disease: Moving From Device- to Patient-Centered Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

METHODS

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

RESULTS

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

Development and Validation of Machine Learning Models for Adverse Events after Cardiac Surgery

Importance

Early recognition of adverse events after cardiac surgery is vital for treatment. However, the widely used Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) risk model has modest performance in predicting adverse events and only applies <80% of cardiac surgeries.

Objective

To develop and validate machine learning (ML) models for predicting outcomes after cardiac surgery.

Design setting and participants

ML models, referred as Roux-MMC model, were developed and validated using a retrospective cohort extracted from the STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (ACSD) at Maine Medical Center (MMC) between January 2012 to December 2021. It was further validated on a prospective cohort of MMC between January 2022 to February 2024. The performance of Roux-MMC model is compared with the STS model.Exposure cardiac surgery.

Main outcomes and measures

Postoperative outcomes: mortality, stroke, renal failure, reoperation, prolonged ventilation, major morbidity or mortality, prolonged length of stay (PLOS) and short length of stay (SLOS). Primary measure: area under the receiver-operating curve (AUROC).

Results

A retrospective cohort of 9,841 patients (median [IQR] age, 67 [59-74] years; 7,127 [72%] males) and a prospective cohort of 2,305 patients (median [IQR] age, 67 [59-73] years; 1,707 [74%] males) were included. In the prospective cohort, the Roux-MMC model achieves performance for prolonged ventilation (AUROC 0.911 [95% CI, 0.887-0.935]), PLOS (AUROC 0.875 [95% CI, 0.848-0.898]), renal failure (AUROC 0.878 [95% CI, 0.829-0.921]), mortality (AUROC 0.882 [95% CI, 0.837-0.920]), reoperation (AUROC 0.824 [95% CI, 0.787-0.860]), SLOS (AUROC 0.818 [95% CI, 0.801-0.835]) and major morbidity or mortality (AUROC 0.859 [95% CI, 0.832-0.884]). The Roux-MMC model outperforms the STS model for all 8 outcomes, achieving 0.020-0.167 greater AUROC. The Roux-MMC model covers all cardiac surgery patients, while the STS model applies to only 65% in the retrospective and 77% in the prospective cohorts.

Conclusion and relevance

We developed ML models to predict 8 postoperative outcomes on all cardiac surgery patients using preoperative and intraoperative variables. The Roux-MMC model outperforms the STS model in the prospective cohort. The Roux-MMC model is built on STS ACSD, a data system used in ~1000 US hospitals, thus, it has the potential to easily applied in other hospitals.

Evaluation of aortic arch calcification to predict prognosis after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Few centers routinely report aortic arch calcification (AAC) due to the lack of an easy and effective evaluation method. The association between AAC and the clinical prognosis of patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is unclear. We aimed to develop a rapid method to evaluate AAC in patients who underwent TAVR and to further assess their prognosis. We enrolled 464 consecutive patients with aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR. Patients with severe (11.2%), moderate (18.5%), mild (58.2%), and no (12.1%) AAC had an estimated 3-year all-cause mortality incidence of 39.6%, 20.8%, 13.4%, and 6.7% (log rank p < 0.001), respectively. Patients with severe AAC had a significantly higher incidence of both cardiovascular (log rank p = 0.002) and non-cardiovascular mortality (log rank p = 0.009), whereas patients with moderate AAC had a higher incidence of only non-cardiovascular mortality (p = 0.003) compared with patients with no/mild AAC. Moderate/severe AAC was an independent predictor of 3-year all-cause mortality in univariate (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.39, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-4.03; p = 0.001) and multivariate COX regression analyses (HR: 1.78, 95%CI: 1.04-3.06; p = 0.037). Our rapid semi-quantitative method to evaluate AAC is highly reproducible and can be used to assess AAC in patients who undergo TAVR.

The first International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) standard dataset for reporting outcomes in heart valve disease: moving from device- to patient- centered outcomes

BACKGROUND

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

METHODS

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

RESULTS

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

The First International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) Standard Dataset for Reporting Outcomes in Heart Valve Disease: Moving From Device- to Patient-Centered Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Globally significant variation in treatment and course of heart valve disease (HVD) exists, and outcome measurement is procedure focused instead of patient focused. This article describes the development of a patient-related (International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement) standard set of outcomes and case mix to be measured in patients with HVD.

METHODS

A multisociety working group was formed that included patient representatives and representatives from scientific cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies that publish current guidelines for HVD. The standard set was developed to monitor the patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment with either a surgical or transcatheter procedure. Candidate clinical and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and case mix were identified through benchmark analyses and systematic reviews. Using an online modified Delphi process, the working group voted on final outcomes/case mix and corresponding definition.

RESULTS

Patients with aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve disease or root/ascending aorta >40 mm were included in the standard set. Patients entered the dataset when the diagnosis of HVD was established, allowing outcome measurement in the preprocedural, periprocedural, and postprocedural phases of patients' lives. The working group defined 5 outcome domains: vital status, patient-reported outcomes, progression of disease, cardiac function and durability, and complications of treatment. Subsequently, 16 outcome measures, including 2 patient-reported outcomes, were selected to be tracked in patients with HVD. Case-mix variables included demographic factors, demographic variables, echocardiographic variables, heart catheterization variables, and specific details on aortic/mitral/tricuspid valves and their specific interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Through a unique collaborative effort between patients and cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies, a standard set of measures for HVD was developed. This dataset focuses on outcome measurement regardless of treatment, moving from procedure- to patient-centered outcomes. Implementation of this dataset will facilitate global standardization of outcome measurement, allow meaningful comparison between health care systems and evaluation of clinical practice guidelines, and eventually improve patient care for those experiencing HVD worldwide.

Effect of a Machine Learning-Derived Early Warning Tool With Treatment Protocol on Hypotension During Cardiac Surgery and ICU Stay: The Hypotension Prediction 2 (HYPE-2) Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

Cardiac surgery is associated with perioperative complications, some of which might be attributable to hypotension. The Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI), a machine-learning-derived early warning tool for hypotension, has only been evaluated in noncardiac surgery. We investigated whether using HPI with diagnostic guidance reduced hypotension during cardiac surgery and in the ICU.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial conducted between May 2021 and February 2023.

SETTING

Single-center study conducted in an academic hospital in the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

Adults undergoing elective on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, with or without single heart valve surgery, were enrolled if a mean arterial pressure (MAP) greater than or equal to 65 mm Hg was targeted during the surgical off-pump phases and ICU stay. After eligibility assessment, 142 of 162 patients approached gave informed consent for participation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients randomized 1:1 received either diagnostic guidance in addition to standard care if HPI reached greater than or equal to 75 ( n = 72) or standard care alone ( n = 70).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The primary outcome was the severity of hypotension, measured as time-weighted average (TWA) of MAP less than 65 mm Hg. Secondary outcomes encompassed hypertension severity and intervention disparities. Of 142 patients randomized, 130 were included in the primary analysis. The HPI group showed 63% reduction in median TWA of hypotension compared with the standard care group, with a median of differences of -0.40 mm Hg (95% CI, -0.65 to -0.27; p < 0.001). In the HPI group, patients spent a median 28 minutes (95% CI, 17-44 min) less in hypotension, with a measurement duration of 322 minutes in the HPI group and 333 minutes in the standard care group. No significant differences were observed in hypertension severity, treatment choice, or fluid, vasopressors, and inotrope amounts.

CONCLUSIONS

Using HPI combined with diagnostic guidance on top of standard care significantly decreased hypotension severity in elective cardiac surgery patients compared with standard care.

Outcomes in Women Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Analysis of New Data and Operative Trends

In 2019, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) made up more than one-half of all adult cardiac surgical procedures in the United States, with an estimated 301,077 procedures performed, of which 161,816 were isolated CABG, and approximately 25% of which were performed in women. Women undergoing CABG are statistically more likely to present for surgery at an older age, with a greater burden of comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension, and in decompensated clinical states (eg, acute myocardial infarction or cardiogenic shock) versus their male counterparts. However, sex has been shown to be an independent risk factor for worse outcomes even when controlling for these differences. Although evidence has long suggested that women seem to be at significantly increased risk of adverse perioperative outcomes and worse long-term outcomes, overall trends for patients undergoing CABG in the United States (US) have improved over the last decades. Despite this, the recent evidence from Gaudino et al5 suggests that the outcomes gap between men and women has not improved. In their cohort study examining 1,297,204 patients undergoing isolated CABG from 2011 to 2020 in the US, women had a higher unadjusted risk of operative (30-day) morbidity and mortality, with no signs of improvement in this gap over the study period, suggesting that a greater understanding of and attention to sex-based outcomes in CABG operations are warranted. A thorough understanding of this discrepancy and the possible contributing factors is essential to improving outcomes for women undergoing CABG.

Increased Risk of Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement After Prior Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement With Concomitant Valve Disease

BACKGROUND

The cause of increased risk for reoperation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) vs prior surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is poorly understood. This study evaluated the impact of concomitant mitral and tricuspid valve disease on associated risk of TAVR explantation.

METHODS

Patients undergoing aortic valve replacement after prior SAVR or TAVR were extracted from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (2011-2021). Patients were stratified by TAVR explantation status and presence of severe concomitant valve disease for analyses. Risk adjustment was performed by multivariable logistic regression. Interaction terms were used to evaluate differential risk of concomitant valve disease for TAVR explantation vs redo-SAVR.

RESULTS

Of 24,097 redo aortic valve replacement patients, 877 (3.6%) underwent TAVR explantation. TAVR explantation patients had higher rates of concomitant severe valve disease (17% vs 14%; P < .001). Patients with severe concomitant valve disease had worse operative mortality after TAVR explantation (26.2% vs 14.6%; P < .001) and redo-SAVR (12.3% vs 6.9%; p < .001). TAVR explantation was independently associated with higher mortality (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj], 1.3 [1.0-1.6]; P = .030). Severe mitral regurgitation (ORadj, 1.2 [1.0-1.6]; P = .017), mitral stenosis (ORadj, 2.0 [1.5-2.7; P < .001), and tricuspid regurgitation (ORadj, 1.6 [1.3-1.9]; P < .001) were all associated with mortality, although these factors were not associated with disproportionately higher risk during TAVR explantation (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

TAVR explantation cases have a higher burden of severe concomitant valve disease than redo-SAVR cases. Heart teams should consider these findings when discussing initial procedure choices for patients with multivalve disease, given their extreme risk at time of TAVR explantation.

Low socioeconomic status adversely influences outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting

OBJECTIVES

Although socioeconomic status (SES) is believed to affect patient outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), readmission data are sparse. In a national cohort, we analyzed the influence of SES on readmission, resource utilization, and mortality after CABG.

METHODS

We queried the Nationwide Readmissions Database to identify patients who underwent isolated CABG from January 2016 through December 2018. We derived low, middle, and high SES from International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification codes, patient demographics, and neighborhood-level factors. The effect of SES on risk-adjusted outcomes was assessed with multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Of 523,042 patients who underwent CABG, the 134,039 (25.6%) with low SES were more likely than patients with middle (n = 305,572 [58.4%]) or high SES (n = 83,431 [16%]) to be female, younger, from rural areas, and admitted urgently. Patients with low SES were also less likely to be treated at teaching hospitals and had higher Elixhauser comorbidity scores (P < .001 for all). After risk adjustment, patients with low SES had 46% greater odds of in-hospital mortality at the index operation (odds ratio, 1.464; 95% CI, 1.299-1.650) than patients with high SES. Patients with low SES had the longest index hospital length of stay (P < .001). Low SES was associated with greater odds of readmission at 30 days (odds ratio, 1.229; 95% CI, 1.170-1.292), 90 days (odds ratio, 1.281; 95% CI, 1.223-1.341), and within a calendar year (hazard ratio, 1.234; 95% CI, 1.193-1.278) than high SES.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with low SES have greater adjusted odds of mortality and readmission after CABG than patients with high SES.

Artificial Intelligence in Cardiac Surgery: Transforming Outcomes and Shaping the Future

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology in healthcare, with its integration into cardiac surgery offering significant advancements in precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. However, a comprehensive understanding of AI's applications, benefits, challenges, and future directions in cardiac surgery is needed to inform its safe and effective implementation. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, covering publications from January 2000 to November 2024. Studies focusing on AI applications in cardiac surgery, including risk stratification, surgical planning, intraoperative guidance, and postoperative management, were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted using standardized tools, and findings were synthesized narratively. Results: A total of 121 studies were included in this review. AI demonstrated superior predictive capabilities in risk stratification, with machine learning models outperforming traditional scoring systems in mortality and complication prediction. Robotic-assisted systems enhanced surgical precision and minimized trauma, while computer vision and augmented cognition improved intraoperative guidance. Postoperative AI applications showed potential in predicting complications, supporting patient monitoring, and reducing healthcare costs. However, challenges such as data quality, validation, ethical considerations, and integration into clinical workflows remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Conclusions: AI has the potential to revolutionize cardiac surgery by enhancing decision making, surgical accuracy, and patient outcomes. Addressing limitations related to data quality, bias, validation, and regulatory frameworks is essential for its safe and effective implementation. Future research should focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, robust testing, and the development of ethical and transparent AI systems to ensure equitable and sustainable advancements in cardiac surgery.

A complexity evaluation system for mitral valve repair based on preoperative echocardiographic and machine learning

BACKGROUND

To develop a novel complexity evaluation system for mitral valve repair based on preoperative echocardiographic data and multiple machine learning algorithms.

METHODS

From March 2021 to March 2023, 231 consecutive patients underwent mitral valve repair. Clinical and echocardiographic data were included in the analysis. The end points included immediate mitral valve repair failure (mitral replacement secondary to mitral repair failure) and recurrence regurgitation (moderate or greater mitral regurgitation [MR] before discharge). Various machine learning algorithms were used to establish the complexity evaluation system.

RESULTS

A total of 231 patients were included in this study; the median ejection fraction was 66% (63-70%), and 159 (68.8%) patients were men. Mitral repair was successful in 90.9% (210 of 231) of patients. The linear support vector classification model has the best prediction results in training and test cohorts and the variables of age, A2 lesions, leaflet height, MR grades, and so on were risk factors for failure of mitral valve repair.

CONCLUSION

The linear support vector classification prediction model may allow the evaluation of the complexity of mitral valve repair. Age, A2 lesions, leaflet height, MR grades, and so on may be associated with mitral repair failure.

Interpretable machine learning-based predictive modeling of patient outcomes following cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

The clinical applicability of machine learning predictions of patient outcomes following cardiac surgery remains unclear. We applied machine learning to predict patient outcomes associated with high morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery and identified the importance of variables to the derived model's performance.

METHODS

We applied machine learning to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database to predict postoperative hemorrhage requiring reoperation, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and stroke. We used permutation feature importance to identify variables important to model performance and a misclassification analysis to study the limitations of the model.

RESULTS

The study dataset included 662,772 subjects who underwent cardiac surgery between 2015 and 2017 and 240 variables. Hemorrhage requiring reoperation, VTE, and stroke occurred in 2.9%, 1.2%, and 2.0% of subjects, respectively. The model performed remarkably well at predicting all 3 complications (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.92-0.97). Preoperative and intraoperative variables were not important to model performance; instead, performance for the prediction of all 3 outcomes was driven primarily by several postoperative variables, including known risk factors for the complications, such as mechanical ventilation and new onset of postoperative arrhythmias. Many of the postoperative variables important to model performance also increased the risk of subject misclassification, indicating internal validity.

CONCLUSIONS

A machine learning model accurately and reliably predicts patient outcomes following cardiac surgery. Postoperative, as opposed to preoperative or intraoperative variables, are important to model performance. Interventions targeting this period, including minimizing the duration of mechanical ventilation and early treatment of new-onset postoperative arrhythmias, may help lower the risk of these complications.

In operating room extubation after cardiac surgery is associated with decreased incidence of in hospital new postoperative atrial fibrillation

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to characterize the risks and benefits of in-OR extubation after cardiac surgery.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Single tertiary care hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Cardiac surgical patients >18 years. Exclusion criteria included patients extubated after 6 h in the ICU, those with a history of congenital heart disease (CHD), those intubated prior to arrival to the OR, procedures including circulatory arrest and/or selective cerebral perfusion, cardiothoracic transplantation, and intraoperative death. De-identified data was collected via the hospital's electronic medical record.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Perioperative data was collected for 726 patients, of which 303 (42 %) were extubated in the OR. Multivariable regression models were derived with covariates based on expert clinical reasoning. When compared to fast track extubation, in-OR extubation was independently associated with decreased index hospitalization length of stay (-1.74, 95 % CI [-2.22, -1.08], p < 0.001) and decreased incidence of in-hospital new post-operative atrial fibrillation (OR 0.56 95 % CI [0.37, 0.86], p < 0.01). There were no differences in persistent vasoactive therapy requirement, postoperative mechanical circulatory support or extubation failure.

CONCLUSIONS

In-OR extubation is associated with decreased index hospitalization length of stay and decreased new onset in-hospital atrial fibrillation.

Volume-failure-to-rescue relationship in acute type A aortic dissections: An analysis of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship between volume of cases and failure-to-rescue (FTR) rate after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) across the United States.

METHODS

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons adult cardiac surgery database was used to review outcomes of surgery after ATAAD between June 2017 and December 2021. Mixed-effect models and restricted cubic splines were used to determine the risk-adjusted relationships between ATAAD average volume and FTR rate. FTR calculation was based on deaths associated with the following complications: venous thromboembolism/deep venous thrombosis, stroke, renal failure, mechanical ventilation >48 hours, sepsis, gastrointestinal complications, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and unplanned reoperation.

RESULTS

In total, 18,192 patients underwent surgery for ATAAD in 832 centers. The included hospitals' median volume was 2.2 cases/year (interquartile range [IQR], 0.9-5.8). Quartiles' distribution was 615 centers in the first (1.3 cases/year, IQR, 0.4-2.9); 123 centers in the second (8 cases/year, IQR, 6.7-10.2); 66 centers in the third (15.6 cases/year, IQR, 14.2-18); and 28 centers in the fourth quartile (29.3 cases/year, IQR, 28.8-46.0). Fourth-quartile hospitals performed more extensive procedures. Overall complication, mortality, and FTR rates were 52.6%, 14.2%, and 21.7%, respectively. Risk-adjusted analysis demonstrated increased odds of FTR when the average volume was fewer than 10 cases per year.

CONCLUSIONS

Although high-volume centers performed more complex procedures than low-volume centers, their operative mortality was lower, perhaps reflecting their ability to rescue patients and mitigate complications. An average of fewer than 10 cases per year at an institution is associated with increased odds of failure to rescue patients after ATAAD repair.

Effect of remimazolam versus propofol on hypotension after anesthetic induction in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting: A randomized controlled trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

There is scarce evidence on the hemodynamic stability of remimazolam during anesthetic induction in patients with significant coronary artery disease. This study aims to compare the effects of remimazolam and propofol on post-induction hypotension in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Tertiary teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Adult patients undergoing isolated CABG.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly allocated to received either remimazolam (n = 50) or propofol (n = 50) for anesthetic induction. The remimazolam group received an initial infusion at 6 mg/kg/h, which was later adjusted to 1-2 mg/kg/h to maintain a bispectral index of 40-60 after loss of consciousness. In the propofol group, a 1.5 mg/kg bolus of propofol was administered, followed by 1-1.5% sevoflurane inhalation as needed to achieve the target bispectral index.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was the area under the curve (AUC) below the baseline mean arterial pressure (MAP) during the first 10 min after anesthetic induction. Secondary outcomes included the AUC for MAP <65 mmHg and the requirement for vasopressors.

MAIN RESULTS

The remimazolam group demonstrated a significantly lower AUC under the baseline MAP compared to the propofol group (mean [SD], 169.8 [101.0] mmHg·min vs. 220.6 [102.4] mmHg·min; mean difference [95% confidence interval], 50.8 [10.4-91.2] mmHg·min; P = 0.014). Additionally, the remimazolam group had a reduced AUC for MAP <65 mmHg (7.3 [10.3] mmHg·min vs. 13.9 [14.9] mmHg·min; P = 0.007) and a lower frequency of vasopressor use compared to the propofol group (60% vs. 88%, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Remimazolam may offer improved hemodynamic stability during anesthetic induction in patients undergoing CABG, suggesting its potential advantage over propofol for patients with significant coronary artery disease in terms of hemodynamic stability.

Automating surgical procedure extraction for society of surgeons adult cardiac surgery registry using pretrained language models

Objective

Surgical registries play a crucial role in clinical knowledge discovery, hospital quality assurance, and quality improvement. However, maintaining a surgical registry requires significant monetary and human resources given the wide gamut of information abstracted from medical records ranging from patient co-morbidities to procedural details to post-operative outcomes. Although natural language processing (NLP) methods such as pretrained language models (PLMs) have promised automation of this process, there are yet substantial barriers to implementation. In particular, constant shifts in both underlying data and required registry content are hurdles to the application of NLP technologies.

Materials and Methods

In our work, we evaluate the application of PLMs for automating the population of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STSs) adult cardiac surgery registry (ACS) procedural elements, for which we term Cardiovascular Surgery Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (CS-BERT). CS-BERT was validated across multiple satellite sites and versions of the STS-ACS registry.

Results

CS-BERT performed well (F1 score of 0.8417 ± 0.1838) in common cardiac surgery procedures compared to models based on diagnosis codes (F1 score of 0.6130 ± 0.0010). The model also generalized well to satellite sites and across different versions of the STS-ACS registry.

Discussion and Conclusions

This study provides evidence that PLMs can be used to extract the more common cardiac surgery procedure variables in the STS-ACS registry, potentially reducing need for expensive human annotation and wide scale dissemination. Further research is needed for rare procedural variables which suffer from both lack of data and variable documentation quality.

Evaluating the Prevalence of Cardiac Surgery-associated Acute Kidney Injury After Septal Myectomy Combined With Concomitant Procedures in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVES

Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) may be treated by septal myectomy. Cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) is a common complication, but little is known about its incidence after septal myectomy. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the prevalence of CSA-AKI after septal myectomy and identify potential perioperative and phenotype-related factors contributing to CSA-AKI.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective database analysis with new data analysis.

SETTING

The study occurred in a single university academic expertise center for septal myectomy HOCM patients.

PARTICIPANTS

Data from 238 HOCM patients with septal myectomy operated on between 2005 and 2022 were collected.

INTERVENTIONS

CSA-AKI was stratified according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines using measurement of creatinine and urine production. Important HOCM phenotype-related and perioperative factors were analyzed for their possible associations with CSA-AKI.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

CSA-AKI occurred in 45% of patients; of these, 55% were classified as KDIGO stage I and the remaining 45% as stage II, with no chronic kidney damage observed. Moreover, there were no phenotypical or perioperative characteristics that were more prevalent in the CSA-AKI cohort. However, the use of beta-blockers and coronary artery disease were more prevalent in the CSA-AKI cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

CSA-AKI is a common complication after septal myectomy but was transient, and kidney function recovered in all patients.

Efficacy of Single-Bolus Administration of Remimazolam During Induction of Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective, Single-Center, Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Remimazolam is a recently marketed ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine. This drug is considered safe and effective during general anesthesia; however, limited information is available about its effects on patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and hemodynamic stability of a bolus administration of remimazolam during anesthesia induction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery were randomly assigned to any 1 of the following 3 groups: anesthesia induction with a continuous infusion of remimazolam 6 mg/kg/h (continuous group), a single-bolus injection of remimazolam 0.1 mg/kg (bolus 0.1 group), or a single-bolus injection of remimazolam 0.2 mg/kg (bolus 0.2 group). Time to loss of responsiveness, defined as modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale <3, and changes in hemodynamic status during anesthetic induction were measured.

RESULTS

Times to loss of responsiveness were 137 ± 20, 71 ± 35, and 48 ± 9 seconds in the continuous, bolus 0.1, and bolus 0.2 groups, respectively. The greatest mean difference was observed between the continuous and bolus 0.2 groups (89.0, 95% confidence interval [CI], 79.1-98.9), followed by the continuous and bolus 0.1 groups (65.8, 95% CI, 46.9-84.7), and lastly between the bolus 0.2 and bolus 0.1 groups (23.2, 95% CI, 6.6-39.8). No significant differences were found in terms of arterial blood pressures and heart rates of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

A single-bolus injection of remimazolam provided efficient anesthetic induction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. A 0.2 mg/kg bolus injection of remimazolam resulted in the shortest time to loss of responsiveness among the 3 groups, without significantly altering the hemodynamic parameters. Therefore, this dosing can be considered a favorable anesthetic induction method for patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Preliminary outcomes of quantitative flow ratio-guided coronary bypass grafting in primary valve surgery: A propensity score weighted analysis

Objectives

The guidelines recommend fractional flow reserve-guided coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) during primary valve surgery without evidence. Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) is a novel coronary angiography (CAG)-based fractional flow reserve measurement. We aimed to compare the early clinical outcomes between QFR-guided and CAG-guided CABG in these patients.

Methods

This observational study screened all 2081 patients admitted to our institution for elective primary mitral and/or aortic valve surgery from January 2017 to September 2020. Of them, all 188 patients with comorbid coronary artery lesions (visual estimated stenosis ≥50%) were included. Sixty-nine patients with QFR analysis received bypasses only for lesions with QFR ≤0.80 (QFR-guided group). The remaining 119 patients without QFR analysis received bypasses for all stenosis ≥50% (CAG-guided group). Propensity overlap weighting was used to neutralize the intergroup imbalance. The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular events.

Results

After propensity score weighting, the baseline characteristics were comparable. Concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting was performed 58.1% versus 100% in the QFR-guided and CAG-guided groups, respectively. The mean number of grafts was significantly lower in QFR-guided group than in the CAG-guided group (0.9 ± 0.7 vs 1.6 ± 0.5 [P < .001]). The weighted 30-day incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events was numerically lower in the QFR-guided group than in the CAG-guided group, but not statistically significant (6.3% vs 11.8% [P = .429]). After a median follow-up of 31.6 months, the weighted risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and mortality were significantly lower in the QFR-guided group than in the CAG-guided group (major adverse cardiovascular events: hazard ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24-0.84; P = .012; mortality: hazard ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.16-0.93; P = .029).

Conclusions

Compared with CAG-guided coronary artery bypass grafting, QFR-guided CABG is associated with less grafting and better clinical outcome in primary valve surgery with comorbid coronary artery disease. To confirm this finding, the Quantitative Flow Ratio Guided Revascularization Strategy for Patients Undergoing Primary Valve Surgery With Comorbid Coronary Artery Disease trial (NCT03977129) is ongoing.

Early achievement of walkability after cardiac surgery and the risk of cardiovascular disease after hospital discharge

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the association between the time to achieve walkability after cardiac surgery and the risk of cardiovascular disease after hospital discharge.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study involving 553 ambulatory patients aged 71.5 (range, 64.0-77.0) years who underwent cardiac surgery. All patients were divided into five groups based on the time to achieve walkability ≥100 m within 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days after cardiac surgery. We examined the risk of post-cardiovascular disease outcomes, including readmission due to heart failure, ischaemic heart disease and other cardiovascular disease, according to the time to achieve walkability with reference to 5 days using the Fine and Gray regression model, considering competing risks.

RESULTS

In the survival curve analysis, we examined the time to experience post-cardiovascular disease incidence after hospital discharge. During a median of 3.3 years of follow-up, 118 patients developed cardiovascular disease. We observed a positive association between the time to achieve walkability and cardiovascular disease risk, particularly heart failure. The multivariate hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for heart failure readmission were N/A (not assessed due to the sample size being too small) for 1 day, 0.31 (0.10-0.99) for 2 days, 0.60 (0.21-1.79) for 3 days and 0.76 (0.22-2.72) for 4 days (P for trend = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

The shorter walkability achievement time was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, more specifically heart failure readmission, among patients who underwent cardiac surgery. The time required to achieve walkability is a useful predictor for cardiovascular diseases after hospital discharge.

Postoperative atrial fibrillation in mitral valve surgery is not benign

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is common after cardiac surgery and is often considered to be benign despite recent data suggesting worse outcomes. There are no guidelines for the amount of POAF that triggers anticoagulation or for postoperative surveillance. We examined the rate of POAF, incidence of neurologic events, development of permanent atrial fibrillation, and mortality in patients undergoing isolated mitral valve surgery at a Mitral Foundation reference center.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of 922 adult patients from 2011 to 2022 with no preoperative history of arrhythmias. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for the primary outcomes. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional-hazards model were used to characterize long-term survival.

RESULTS

The incidence of POAF was 39%. Median follow-up was 4.9 months (interquartile range, 1.1-42.6 months). Diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-4.1; P = .01) and increasing age (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 1.0-1.1; P < .001) were risk factors for POAF, whereas New York Heart Association functional class was not. POAF was a risk factor for the development of permanent atrial fibrillation (OR, 3.2; 95% CI 1.9-5.4; P < .001), which was associated with increased risk of neurologic events (OR, 3.8; 95% CI, 1.5-9.7; P = .004). Ultimately, patients with POAF had worse unadjusted (P < .001) and adjusted long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1-3.1; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

POAF is associated with an increased rate of neurologic events, portends development of permanent atrial fibrillation, and is associated with worse long-term survival. POAF is not benign and carries a long-term mortality implication.

No-touch saphenous vein: current understanding of the conduit 'less handled'

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The no-touch technique is an established method to harvest the saphenous vein (NT-SV), which is the most commonly used conduit in coronary artery bypass grafting. Herein, we summarize the foundational evidence, as well as highlight recent innovations and ongoing clinical trials involving NT-SV.

RECENT FINDINGS

Through preservation of perivascular tissue for atraumatic handling and omission of manual distension, the NT-SV maintains endothelial nitrous oxide synthase levels and experiences less vascular smooth muscle cell activation, which translates to slower progression of atherosclerosis and less size mismatch of the graft and target vessel. These biomolecular advantages allow NT-SV to provide superior graft patency compared to conventional skeletonized saphenous vein and approximating that of the radial artery. Nonetheless, the clinical benefits of NT-SV for mortality and reduction in major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events are insufficiently studied in the long-term. The drawback of NT-SV is the short-term harvest site complications, which may potentially be addressed by the advent of endoscopic no-touch technique.

SUMMARY

NT-SV is a promising conduit, and its role will be further clarified in upcoming clinical trials and as follow-up lengthens. However, conduit selection and harvest technique should ultimately be personalized to the individual patient.

The effect of a selenium-based anti-inflammatory strategy on postoperative functional recovery in high-risk cardiac surgery patients - A nested sub-study of the sustain CSX trial

AIM

The cardiac surgery-related ischemia-reperfusion-related oxidative stress triggers the release of cytotoxic reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, contributing to organ failure and ultimately influencing patients' short- and long-term outcomes. Selenium is an essential co-factor for various antioxidant enzymes, thereby contributing to the patients' endogenous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defense mechanisms. Given these selenium's pleiotropic functions, we investigated the effect of a high-dose selenium-based anti-inflammatory perioperative strategy on functional recovery after cardiac surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study constituted a nested sub-study of the SUSTAIN CSX trial, a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled multicenter trial to investigate the impact of high-dose selenium supplementation on high-risk cardiac surgery patients' postoperative recovery. Functional recovery was assessed by 6-min walk distance, Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Barthel Index questionnaires.

KEY FINDINGS

174 patients were included in this sub-study. The mean age (SD) was 67.3 (8.9) years, and 78.7 % of the patients were male. The mean (SD) predicted 30-day mortality by the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score was 12.6 % (9.4 %). There was no difference at hospital discharge and after three months in the 6-min walk distance between the selenium and placebo groups (131 m [IQR: not performed - 269] vs. 160 m [IQR: not performed - 252], p = 0.80 and 400 m [IQR: 299-461] vs. 375 m [IQR: 65-441], p = 0.48). The SF-36 and Barthel Index assessments also revealed no clinically meaningful differences between the selenium and placebo groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

A perioperative anti-inflammatory strategy with high-dose selenium supplementation did not improve functional recovery in high-risk cardiac surgery patients.

Surgeon and Hospital Factors Associated With Outcomes in the New York State Database

INTRODUCTION

We sought to explore the relationship between various surgeon-related and hospital-level characteristics and clinical outcomes among patients requiring cardiac surgery.

METHODS

We searched the New York State Cardiac Data Reporting System for all coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and valve cases between 2015 and 2017. The data were analyzed without dichotomization.

RESULTS

Among CABG/valve surgeons, case volume was positively correlated with years in practice (P = 0.002) and negatively correlated with risk-adjusted mortality ratio (P = 0.014). For CABG and CABG/valve surgeons, our results showed a negative association between teaching status and case volume (P = 0.002, P = 0.018). Among CABG surgeons, hospital teaching status and presence of cardiothoracic surgery residency were inversely associated with risk-adjusted mortality ratio (P = 0.006, P = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a complex relationship between case volume, teaching status, and surgical outcomes suggesting that balance between academics and volume is needed.

Epicardial placement of human placental membrane allografts in coronary artery bypass graft surgery is associated with reduced postoperative atrial fibrillation: a pilot study for a future multi-center randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) occurs in up to 40% of patients following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and is associated with a higher risk of stroke and mortality. This study investigates how POAF may be mitigated by epicardial placement of aseptically processed human placental membrane allografts (HPMAs) before pericardial closure in CABG surgery. This study was conducted as a pilot feasibility study to collect preliminary for a forthcoming multi-center randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study of patients undergoing CABG surgery excluded patients with pre-operative heart failure, chronic kidney disease, or a history of atrial fibrillation. The "treatment" group (n = 24) had three HPMAs placed epicardially following cardiopulmonary bypass decannulation but before partial pericardial approximation and chest closure. The only difference in clinical protocol for the control group (n = 54) was that they did not receive HPMA.

RESULTS

HPMA-treated patients saw a significant, greater than four-fold reduction in POAF incidence compared to controls (35.2-8.3%, p = 0.0136). Univariate analysis demonstrated that HPMA treatment was associated with an 83% reduction in POAF (OR = 0.17, p = 0.0248). Multivariable analysis yielded similar results (OR = 0.07, p = 0.0156) after controlling for other covariates. Overall length of stay (LOS) between groups was similar, but ICU LOS trended lower with HPMA treatment (p = 0.0677). Post-operative inotrope and vasopressor requirements were similar among groups. There was no new-onset post-operative heart failure, stroke, or death reported up to thirty days in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Epicardial HPMA placement can be a simple intervention at the end of CABG surgery that may provide a new approach to reduce post-operative atrial fibrillation by modulating local inflammation, possibly reducing ICU and hospital stay, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Radiologists predict differential resource utilization but not clinical outcome in emergency department patients imaged with ultrasound for right upper quadrant pain

PURPOSE

Radiologists with diverse training, specialization, and habits interpret imaging in the Emergency Department. It is necessary to understand if their variation predicts differential value. The purpose of this study was to determine whether attending radiologist variation predicts major clinical outcomes in adult Emergency Department patients imaged with ultrasound for right upper quadrant pain.

METHODS

Consecutive ED patients imaged with ultrasound for RUQ pain from 10/8/2016 to 8/10/2022 were included (N = 7097). The primary outcome was prediction of hospital admission by signing attending radiologist. Secondary outcomes included: ED and hospital length of stay (LOS), 30-day mortality, 30-day re-presentation rate, subspecialty consultation, advanced imaging follow up (HIDA, MRI, CT), and intervention (ERCP, drainage or surgery). Sample size was determined a priori (detectable effect size: w = 0.06). Data were adjusted for demographic data, Elixhauser comorbidities, number of ED visits in prior year, clinical data, and system factors (38 covariates). P-values were corrected for multiple comparisons (false discovery rate-adjusted p-values).

RESULTS

The included ultrasounds were read by 35 radiologists (median exams/radiologist: 145 [74.5-241.5]). Signing radiologist did not predict hospitalization (p = 0.85), abdominopelvic surgery or intervention within 30 days, re-presentation to the Emergency Department within 30 days, or subspecialty consultation. Radiologist did predict difference in Emergency Department length of stay (p < 0.001) although this difference was small and imprecise. HIDA was mentioned variably by radiologists (range 0-19%, p < 0.001), and mention of HIDA in the ultrasound report increased 10-fold the odds of HIDA being performed in the next 72 h (odds ratio 10.4 [8.0-13.4], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Radiologist variability did not predict meaningful outcome differences for patients with right upper quadrant pain undergoing ultrasound in the Emergency Department, but when radiologists mention HIDA in their reports, it predicts a 10-fold increase in the odds a HIDA is performed. Radiologists are relied on for interpretation that shapes subsequent patient care, and it is important to consider how radiologist variability can influence both outcome and resource utilization.

Building a patient-centred nationwide integrated cardiac care registry: intermediate results from the Netherlands

This paper presents an overview of the development of an integrated patient-centred cardiac care registry spanning the initial 5 years (September 2017 to December 2022). The Netherlands Heart Registration facilitates registration committees in which mandated cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons structurally evaluate quality of care using real-world data. With consistent attendance rates exceeding 60%, a valuable network is supported. Over time, the completeness level of the registry has increased. Presently, four out of six quality registries show over 95% completeness in variables that are part of the quality policies of cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery societies. Notably, 93% of the centres voluntarily report outcomes related to open heart surgery and (trans)catheter interventions publicly. Moreover, outcomes after implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and pacemaker procedures are transparently reported by 26 centres. Multiple innovation projects have been initiated by the committees, signalling a shift from publishing outcomes transparently to collaborative efforts in sharing healthcare processes and investigating improvement initiatives. The next steps will focus on the entire pathway of cardiac care for a specific medical condition instead of focusing solely on the outcomes of the procedures. This redirection of focus to a comprehensive assessment of the patient pathway in cardiac care ultimately aims to optimise outcomes for all patients.

Sutureless aortic valves in isolated and combined procedures: Thirteen years of experience in 784 patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome and experience of the Perceval sutureless valve at our institution (UZ Leuven).

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2019, 784 patients underwent sutureless aortic valve replacement using the Perceval valve (isolated or combined with other procedures). We performed a retrospective analysis of the postoperative and follow-up data.

RESULTS

Mean age was 78 years with a median European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score of 4.2% (interquartile range, 2.6%-7.2%). Isolated aortic valve replacement accounted for 45% of cases; 30% of cases were aortic valve replacement in combination with coronary artery bypass grafting and the remaining 25% were other combined procedures. The median crossclamp times were 38 minutes in single aortic valve replacement, 70 minutes in cases with coronary artery bypass grafting, and 89 minutes in multiple valve cases. Device success was 99.1% and in-hospital mortality was 3.3%. Postoperative stroke or transient ischemic attack occurred in 1.9% of patients and 1% of patients had a new need for dialysis after surgery and median survival time was 7.0 years with a cumulative follow-up of 2797.8 patient-years. The 1-, 5-, and 10-year freedom from reintervention were 99%, 97%, and 94%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data represent the longest follow-up available, to our knowledge, for the Perceval sutureless valve. We observed favorable early outcomes, and low rates of early mortality, stroke, and other major complications. Valve durability is promising with low rates of valve degeneration and a limited need for reintervention.

Oral hygiene prior to cardiac surgery to prevent infections: Randomized clinical trial

CONTEXT

It is not clear if an oral hygiene protocol to control biofilm applied before cardiac surgery can reduce infection rates.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to verify the effectiveness of an oral hygiene protocol in reducing postoperative infections when compared to usual practices, in patients admitted to a cardiology unit, prior to cardiac surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Randomized, blind, controlled clinical trial, with 107 participants who expected to undergo cardiac surgery, randomized into two groups: Experimental Group (EG) standardized oral hygiene protocol (54) and Control Group (CG), usual practices performed in patients admitted (53).

INTERVENTION

a standardized oral hygiene protocol, 1 day before surgery: professional prophylaxis with a portable ultrasound device, tooth brushing and flossing plus a 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate solution (0.12% CHX) mouth rinsing. When applicable, removable prostheses cleaning.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

the presence of infection.

RESULTS

The occurrence of postoperative infection was higher in CG = 7 (13.2%) than in EG = 5 (9.3%); but no statistical difference was found between protocols (p = 0.518). The length of stayed from surgery to discharge presented a statistical difference (p = 0.047; RR = 4.9; CI = 1.01-24.33); the percentage of postoperative infection was almost five times higher in those participants who stayed 11 or more days.

CONCLUSION

The standardized oral hygiene protocol with mechanical and chemical cleaning, 1 day before cardiac surgery, was not more effective than the usual practices performed regarding the reduction of postoperative infections. Other interventions regarding oral hygiene procedures before cardiac surgery must be studied to contribute to the reduction of adverse post-surgical events.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Site Ensaclinicos.gov.br number U1111-1214-2862.

DESCRIPTORS

Healthcare Associated Infections, Cardiovascular Diseases, Periodontal Diseases, Dental Biofilm, Cardiovascular Surgery.

Synergistic Effect of Transmyocardial Revascularization and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Improving Cardiac Function After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a global health burden, contributing to mortality and morbidity. A proportion of patients with CAD suffer from diffuse CAD, where conventional revascularization techniques such as percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be insufficient to adequately restore myocardial perfusion. Transmyocardial revascularization (TMR) uses a laser to create microscopic channels in the myocardium, inducing inflammation, angiogenesis, and neovascularization to improve perfusion to ischemic regions. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous concentrate of platelets that contains a myriad of growth factors and bioactive proteins, which have been shown to promote tissue regeneration and wound healing. The combination of TMR and PRP therapies has been proposed to synergistically enhance myocardial revascularization and functional recovery in patients with advanced CAD undergoing surgical revascularization. Methods This study evaluated the efficacy of combining TMR and PRP with CABG in improving cardiac function in diffuse CAD patients. Fifty-two patients were randomized to CABG alone (n = 16), CABG+TMR (n = 17), CABG+PRP (n = 10), and CABG+TMR+PRP (n = 9). TMR was performed using a holmium:YAG laser to create 10 channels in the inferolateral left ventricular wall. PRP was prepared from autologous whole blood and injected into the myocardium adjacent to the TMR channels. Cardiac function was assessed using speckle-tracking echocardiography preoperatively, postoperatively, and at one-year follow-up. Adverse events, including post-operative atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury, and readmissions, were also recorded. Statistical analyses were performed to compare outcomes between the treatment groups. Results The CABG+TMR+PRP group showed significantly improved global longitudinal strain (GLS) at one year compared to CABG alone (mean GLS -15.96 vs -12.09, p = 0.02). Post-operative left ventricular ejection fraction trended higher in the TMR+PRP group (57.78%) vs other groups, but not significantly. Post-operative atrial fibrillation was higher in the TMR+PRP group (67% vs 25%, p = 0.04), potentially reflecting increased inflammation. No significant differences were observed in other adverse events. Conclusions The results of this study suggest a synergistic benefit of combining TMR and PRP therapies as an adjunct to CABG in patients with diffuse CAD. The significant improvement in GLS at one year in the TMR+PRP group compared to CABG alone indicates enhanced myocardial remodeling and functional recovery, which may translate to improved long-term outcomes. The higher incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation in the TMR+PRP group warrants further investigation but may reflect the heightened inflammatory response necessary for angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. Prospective, randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to validate these findings and optimize treatment protocols. Nonetheless, concomitant TMR+PRP therapy represents a promising approach to augmenting myocardial revascularization and recovery in patients with advanced CAD undergoing surgical revascularization.

Prophylactic Left Atrial Appendage Ligation During Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Allows Safe Avoidance of Anticoagulation Regardless of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

Background New-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia following cardiac surgery. POAF increases the risk of thromboembolism and stroke, as well as morbidity and mortality more generally. Despite evidence from the landmark PROTECT-AF and PREVAIL trials, left atrial appendage ligation (LAAL) is not routinely performed for thromboembolism prophylaxis in POAF, and anticoagulation remains the standard of care along with dual antiplatelet therapy. This study evaluated the efficacy of concomitant LAAL in eliminating the need for postoperative anticoagulation, regardless of POAF development, in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods Between 2019 and 2021, 130 patients were selected to undergo concomitant LAAL while undergoing CABG surgery. Patients were then monitored for the incidence of new-onset POAF, and anticoagulation was strictly avoided for this indication. Demographic and outcome data were collected, with endpoints including transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke, death, and readmission within one year, as well as the length of hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. Results POAF occurred in 37 patients (28.5%), consistent with previous reports. However, none of the POAF patients experienced TIA or stroke during the one-year follow-up period, compared to 2 (2.15%) in the non-POAF group, a typical rate of postoperative stroke in such a patient population. No significant differences were observed between POAF and non-POAF cohorts in one-year stroke, all-cause mortality, readmission rates, or total hospital stay. Interestingly, the POAF cohort had a significantly longer mean ICU stay (4.24 vs 3.37 days, p = 0.0219), possibly due to the time required for arrhythmia control before discharge. The study population had a high mean CHA2DS2-VASc score (2.81), indicating an increased risk of thromboembolism, and a high mean HAS-BLED score, suggesting an elevated bleeding risk with anticoagulation. Conclusions LAAL appears to be an effective adjunct to CABG for thromboembolism prophylaxis in POAF. Formal anticoagulation was avoided in this study, with no significant differences in adverse events between POAF and non-POAF groups, suggesting that LAAL may be a suitable alternative to anticoagulation, especially in high-risk patients (e.g., those with elevated CHA2DS2-VASc or HAS-BLED scores). The safety and efficacy of this approach should be corroborated by larger randomized studies, such as the ongoing LeAAPS trial. LAAL during CABG may help reduce the risk of bleeding complications associated with anticoagulation while maintaining protection against thromboembolic events in patients who develop POAF.

Analysis and prevention strategies of risk factors for postoperative stroke complications in cardiac surgery

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the risk factors associated with postoperative stroke complications in cardiac surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 549 patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Among these patients, 501 did not experience a stroke postoperatively (non-stroke group), while 48 developed a postoperative stroke (stroke group). Patients who experienced a stroke postoperatively were divided into two groups based on the type of surgery: those who underwent surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (18 patients) and those without cardiopulmonary bypass (30 patients). The clinical characteristics of the two groups of patients with postoperative strokes were compared, and the risk factors influencing the occurrence of postoperative stroke complications in cardiac surgery were analyzed.

RESULTS

① Clinical findings: Cardiopulmonary bypass group had lower cortical infarction rates but higher large-area and bilateral infarction rates compared to the non-cardiopulmonary bypass group (p < 0.05). No significant gender, age, or infarction type differences were observed (p > 0.05). ② Univariate analysis: No significant differences were found in gender, smoking, alcohol, lipids, or glucose levels (p > 0.05). However, age, education, hypertension, diabetes, hypotension, and atrial fibrillation showed significant differences (p < 0.05). ③ Multivariate Logistic regression: Age, education, hypertension, diabetes, hypotension, and atrial fibrillation were independent risk factors for postoperative stroke complications (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Cardiopulmonary bypass increases risk of large-area and bilateral strokes; non-bypass surgery associates with cortical strokes. Age, educational level, hypertension, diabetes, postoperative hypotension, and atrial fibrillation are all factors independently associated with the occurrence of postoperative cerebral infarctions in cardiac surgery. Early interventions may reduce postoperative strokes.