3-Year Outcomes of the Edwards SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve for Conduit Failure in the Pulmonary Position From the COMPASSION Multicenter Clinical Trial

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in Congenital Heart Disease

Over the last 2 decades, experience with transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) has grown significantly and has become an effective and reliable way of treating pulmonary valve regurgitation, right ventricular outflow (RVOT) obstruction, and dysfunctional bioprosthetic valves and conduits. With the introduction of self-expanding valves and prestents, dilated native RVOT can be addressed with the transcatheter approach. In this article, the authors review the current practices, technical challenges, and outcomes of TPVR.

Holography-guided procedural planning for modifying Venus P-valve implantation technique in patients with left pulmonary artery stents: a case-series

Background

Venus P-valve™ (Venus Medtech, Hangzhou, China) is a self-expandable bioprosthetic valve that can be transcatheter-implanted in native right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) patients. Valve implantation is technically challenging. Due to the implantation technique, left pulmonary artery (LPA) stents represent a relative contraindication to Venus P-valve. In this case series, we describe our experience in implanting Venus P-valve in patients with previous LPA stents and the use of holographic models to facilitate procedural planning.

Methods and results

From January to October 2023, 17 patients were scheduled for Venus P-Valve implantation. 16/17 (94%) patients were successfully implanted. 3/16 (18.7%) patients underwent Venus P-valve implantation with LPA stents. All patients underwent pre-operative CT scan. CT data set were employed to create three-dimensional (3D) holographic models (Artiness, Milan, Italy) of the entire heart, which were useful to plan valve implantation with a modified technique. Procedural success rate was 100%. No procedural complications occurred. All three patients presented good haemodynamic and angiographic results at discharge and follow-up visits.

Conclusion

This case-series underscores the feasibility of Venus P-valve implantation in patients with previous LPA stents. The use of holographic models facilitated procedural planning in these challenging anatomical scenarios.

Aspirin Responsiveness in a Cohort of Pediatric Patients with Right Ventricle to Pulmonary Artery Conduits and Transcatheter Valve Replacement Systems

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of aspirin responsiveness in a cohort of pediatric patients with in situ xenograft valved right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduits and/or transcatheter valve replacements (TVR). Aspirin is routinely prescribed to these patients. Optimizing anti-platelet therapy could promote valve longevity and reduce the risk of infective endocarditis in this at-risk group. This was a prospective, observational study. Patients were recruited from both ward and outpatient settings. Patients were eligible if under 18 years and taking aspirin. Non-response to aspirin was defined as > 20% platelet aggregation using light transmission platelet aggregometry (LTA) and < 50% platelet inhibition by thromboelastography with platelet mapping (TEGPM). Participants were invited to provide a confirmatory sample in cases of aspirin resistance and dose adjustments were made. Thirty patients participated. Median age was 9 years (2 months to 18 years). The majority (93%) had complex right ventricular outflow tract pathology. 13 (43%) had an RV-PA conduit and 24 (80%) had a TVR, with valve situated in conduit in 7 (23%) cases. Rate of aspirin non-response on initial testing was 23% (n = 7/30) with median LTA 74.55% (60-76%) and TEG 13.25% (0-44%) in non-responders. Non-responders were more likely to be under 1 year. Two patients required dose increases and one patient non-adherence to dose was identified. Four patients on repeat testing were responsive to aspirin by laboratory tests. The rate of aspirin non-response on laboratory testing in this cohort of patients was 23% and resulted in therapeutic intervention in 10%.

2024 Statement from Asia expert operators on transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR), also known as percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation, refers to a minimally invasive technique that replaces the pulmonary valve by delivering an artificial pulmonary prosthesis through a catheter into the diseased pulmonary valve under the guidance of X-ray and/or echocardiogram while the heart is still beating not arrested. In recent years, TPVR has achieved remarkable progress in device development, evidence-based medicine proof and clinical experience. To update the knowledge of TPVR in a timely fashion, and according to the latest research and further facilitate the standardized and healthy development of TPVR in Asia, we have updated this consensus statement. After systematical review of the relevant literature with an in-depth analysis of eight main issues, we finally established eight core viewpoints, including indication recommendation, device selection, perioperative evaluation, procedure precautions, and prevention and treatment of complications.

Outcomes of transcatheter pulmonary SAPIEN 3 valve implantation: an international registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) is indicated to treat right-ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction related to congenital heart disease (CHD). Outcomes of TPVI with the SAPIEN 3 valve that are insufficiently documented were investigated in the EUROPULMS3 registry of SAPIEN 3-TPVI.

METHODS

Patient-related, procedural, and follow-up outcome data were retrospectively assessed in this observational cohort from 35 centres in 15 countries.

RESULTS

Data for 840 consecutive patients treated in 2014-2021 at a median age of 29.2 (19.0-41.6) years were obtained. The most common diagnosis was conotruncal defect (70.5%), with a native or patched RVOT in 50.7% of all patients. Valve sizes were 20, 23, 26, and 29 mm in 0.4%, 25.5%, 32.1%, and 42.0% of patients, respectively. Valve implantation was successful in 98.5% [95% confidence interval (CI), 97.4%-99.2%] of patients. Median follow-up was 20.3 (7.1-38.4) months. Eight patients experienced infective endocarditis; 11 required pulmonary valve replacement, with a lower incidence for larger valves (P = .009), and four experienced pulmonary valve thrombosis, including one who died and three who recovered with anticoagulation. Cumulative incidences (95%CI) 1, 3, and 6 years after TPVI were as follows: infective endocarditis, 0.5% (0.0%-1.0%), 0.9% (0.2%-1.6%), and 3.8% (0.0%-8.4%); pulmonary valve replacement, 0.4% (0.0%-0.8%), 1.3% (0.2%-2.4%), and 8.0% (1.2%-14.8%); and pulmonary valve thrombosis, 0.4% (0.0%-0.9%), 0.7% (0.0%-1.3%), and 0.7% (0.0%-1.3%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes of SAPIEN 3 TPVI were favourable in patients with CHD, half of whom had native or patched RVOTs.

Current status of transcatheter intervention for complex right ventricular outflow tract abnormalities

Various transcatheter interventions for the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) have been introduced and developed in recent decades. Transcatheter pulmonary valve perforation was first introduced in the 1990s. Radiofrequency wire perforation has been the approach of choice for membranous pulmonary atresia in newborns, with high success rates, although complication rates remain relatively common. Stenting of the RVOT is a novel palliative treatment that may improve hemodynamics in neonatal patients with reduced pulmonary blood flow and RVOT obstruction. Whether this option is superior to other surgical palliative strategies or early primary repair of tetralogy of Fallot remains unclear. Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement has been one of the biggest innovations in the last two decades. With the success of the Melody and SAPIEN valves, this technique has evolved into the gold standard therapy for RVOT abnormalities with excellent procedural safety and efficacy. Challenges remain in managing the wide heterogeneity of postoperative lesions seen in RVOT, and various technical modifications, such as pre-stenting, valve ring modification, or development of self-expanding systems, have been made. Recent large studies have revealed outcomes comparable to those of surgery, with less morbidity. Further experience and multicenter studies and registries to compare the outcomes of various strategies are necessary, with the ultimate goal of a single-step, minimally invasive approach offering the best longer-term anatomical and physiological results.

[Modern possibilities for transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement]

The literature review is devoted to transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement. The authors summarize the indications, clinical data and current capabilities of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement. The authors also overviewed modern valves for transcatheter pulmonary artery replacement. Effectiveness of transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation has been substantiated. Various studies comparing the outcomes of different valve systems for endovascular implantation were analyzed. The authors concluded the prospects for transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation.

Technical recommendations for computed tomography guidance of intervention in the right ventricular outflow tract: Native RVOT, conduits and bioprosthetic valves:: A white paper of the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT), Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society (CHSS), and Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI)

This consensus document for the performance of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (CCT) to guide intervention in the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in patients with congenital disease (CHD) was developed collaboratively by pediatric and adult interventionalists, surgeons and cardiac imagers with expertise specific to this patient subset. The document summarizes definitions of RVOT dysfunction as assessed by multi-modality imaging techniques and reviews existing consensus statements and guideline documents pertaining to indications for intervention. In the context of this background information, recommendations for CCT scan acquisition and a standardized approach for reporting prior to surgical or transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement are proposed and presented. It is the first Imaging for Intervention collaboration for CHD patients and encompasses imaging and reporting recommendations prior to both surgical and percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement.

Catheter-based Interventions in Tetralogy of Fallot Across the Lifespan

Surgical treatment of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) involves surgical relief of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction and closure of ventricular septal defect. However, some patients may require staged palliation before surgical repair. This traditionally was achieved only with surgery but recently evolved to include catheter-based techniques. RVOT dysfunction occurs inevitably after the surgical repair of TOF and, depending on the surgical approach, manifests as either progressive stenosis, regurgitation, or a combination of both. This predisposes the individual to repeated RVOT interventions with the attendant risks of multiple open-heart surgeries. The advent of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement has reduced the operative burden, and the expansion of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement device platforms has widened the type and size of RVOT anatomies that can be treated. This review will discuss the transcatheter therapies available throughout the lifespan of the patient with TOF.

Totally endoscopic pulmonary valve replacement

A 68-year-old man with a history of valve-sparing aortic root replacement and endoscopic aortic valve replacement was admitted to our hospital with dyspnea. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary valve regurgitation. The patient had undergone cardiac surgery twice, through median sternotomy and right thoracotomy; therefore, we planned endoscopic pulmonary valve replacement via the left thoracic approach. The patient was placed in a modified right lateral decubitus position and underwent mild hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. An on-pump beating-heart technique was used during surgery. The 3D endoscopic system and trocars for surgical instruments were inserted through the left 3rd and 4th intercostal spaces. After incision of the pulmonary artery, the pulmonary cusps were resected. A 27-mm St Jude Medical Epic heart valve was implanted in the intra-annular position. Subsequently, the left atrial appendage was resected. The patient was discharged without complications. To our knowledge, this is the first case of totally endoscopic pulmonary valve replacement.

Technical Recommendations for Computed Tomography Guidance of Intervention in the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract: Native RVOT, Conduits, and Bioprosthetic Valves

This consensus document for the performance of cardiovascular computed tomography (CCT) to guide intervention in the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) was developed collaboratively by pediatric and adult interventionalists, surgeons, and cardiac imagers with expertise specific to this patient subset. The document summarizes definitions of RVOT dysfunction as assessed by multimodality imaging techniques and reviews existing consensus statements and guideline documents pertaining to indications for intervention. In the context of this background information, recommendations for CCT scan acquisition and a standardized approach for reporting prior to surgical or transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement are proposed and presented. It is the first Imaging for Intervention collaboration for CHD patients and encompasses imaging and reporting recommendations prior to both surgical and percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement.

Infective Endocarditis Risk with Melody versus Sapien Valves Following Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) is an effective non-surgical treatment method for patients with right ventricle outflow tract dysfunction. The Medtronic Melody and the Edwards Sapien are the two valves approved for use in TPVI. Since TPVI patients are typically younger, even a modest annual incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) is significant. Several previous studies have shown a growing risk of IE after TPVI. There is uncertainty regarding the overall incidence of IE and differences in the risk of IE between the valves.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane databases from inception to 1 January 2023 using the search terms 'pulmonary valve implantation', 'TPVI', or 'PPVI'. The primary outcome was the pooled incidence of IE following TPVI in Melody and Sapien valves and the difference in incidence between Sapien and Melody valves. Fixed effect and random effect models were used depending on the valve. Meta-regression with random effects was conducted to test the difference in the incidence of IE between the two valves.

RESULTS

A total of 22 studies (including 10 Melody valve studies, 8 Sapien valve studies, and 4 studies that included both valves (572 patients that used the Sapien valve and 1395 patients that used the Melody valve)) were used for the final analysis. Zero IE incidence following TPVI was reported by eight studies (66.7%) that utilized Sapien valves compared to two studies (14.3%) that utilized Melody valves. The pooled incidence of IE following TPVI with Sapien valves was 2.1% (95% CI: 0.9% to 5.13%) compared to 8.5% (95% CI: 4.8% to 15.2%) following TPVI with Melody valves. Results of meta-regression indicated that the Sapien valve had a 79.6% (95% CI: 24.2% to 94.4%, p = 0.019; R2 = 34.4) lower risk of IE incidence compared to the Melody valve.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of IE following TPVI differs significantly. A prudent valve choice in favor of Sapien valves to lower the risk of post-TPVI endocarditis may be beneficial.

Pediatric pulmonary valve replacements: Clinical challenges and emerging technologies

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) frequently impact the right ventricular outflow tract, resulting in a significant incidence of pulmonary valve replacement in the pediatric population. While contemporary pediatric pulmonary valve replacements (PPVRs) allow satisfactory patient survival, their biocompatibility and durability remain suboptimal and repeat operations are commonplace, especially for very young patients. This places enormous physical, financial, and psychological burdens on patients and their parents, highlighting an urgent clinical need for better PPVRs. An important reason for the clinical failure of PPVRs is biofouling, which instigates various adverse biological responses such as thrombosis and infection, promoting research into various antifouling chemistries that may find utility in PPVR materials. Another significant contributor is the inevitability of somatic growth in pediatric patients, causing structural discrepancies between the patient and PPVR, stimulating the development of various growth-accommodating heart valve prototypes. This review offers an interdisciplinary perspective on these challenges by exploring clinical experiences, physiological understandings, and bioengineering technologies that may contribute to device development. It thus aims to provide an insight into the design requirements of next-generation PPVRs to advance clinical outcomes and promote patient quality of life.

Pulmonary Valve Stenosis: From Diagnosis to Current Management Techniques and Future Prospects

Pulmonary stenosis (PS) is mainly a congenital defect that accounts for 7-12% of congenital heart diseases (CHD). It can be isolated or, more frequently, associated with other congenital defects (25-30%) involving anomalies of the pulmonary vascular tree. For the diagnosis of PS an integrated approach with echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is of paramount importance for the planning of the interventional treatment. In recent years, transcatheter approaches for the treatment of PS have increased however, meaning surgery is a possible option for complicated cases with anatomy not suitable for percutaneous treatment. The present review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding diagnosis and treatment of PS.

Congenital heart disease: addressing the need for novel lower-risk percutaneous interventional strategies

INTRODUCTION

With the advent of improved neonatal care, increasingly vulnerable higher-risk patients with complex congenital heart anomalies are presenting for intervention. This group of patients will always have a higher risk of an adverse event during a procedure but by recognising this risk and with the introduction risk scoring systems and thus the development of novel lower risk procedures, the rate of adverse events can be reduced.

AREA COVERED

This article reviews risk scoring systems for congenital catheterization and demonstrates how they can be used to reduce the rate of adverse events. Then novel low risk strategies are discussed for low weight infants e.g. patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stent insertion; premature infants e.g. PDA device closure; and transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement. Finally, how risk is assessed and managed within the inherent bias of an institution is discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

There has been a remarkable improvement in the rate of adverse events in congenital cardiac interventions but now, as the benchmark of mortality rate is switched to morbidity and quality of life, continued innovation into lower risk strategies and understanding inherent bias when assessing risk will be key to continuing this improvement.

Intraoperative Sapien S3 Valve Placement in 2 Patients With Multi-Valvar Disease Operation: A Unique Hybrid Procedure

There has been a paradigm shift in the management of patients with congenital heart disease with a move away from conventional surgical treatment in favor of a percutaneous catheter-based approach across the spectrum of valvular heart diseases. The Sapien S3 valve implantation in the pulmonary position has been previously reported using a conventional transcatheter approach in patients with pulmonary insufficiency due to an enlarged right ventricular outflow tract. In this report, we present 2 unique cases of intraoperative hybrid implantation of Sapien S3 valves in patients with complex pulmonic and tricuspid valvular disease.

Complexity and Outcome of Reoperations After the Ross Procedure in the Current Era

BACKGROUND

The Ross procedure has several advantages, but the need for reintervention is inevitable. The aim of this study was to examine the complexity and outcomes of reoperation after the Ross procedure.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was performed of patients with a prior Ross procedure who underwent reoperation at our institution from September 1991 to January 2021. Demographic, echocardiographic, surgical, and perioperative data were collected. Descriptive statistical and regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients underwent a reoperation at Mayo Clinic after the initial Ross procedure performed at our institution (n = 16; 16.2%) or elsewhere (n = 83; 83.8%). Mean age at the Ross procedure was 27 ± 17 years, and mean age at reoperation at our institution was 37 ± 19 years. Indications for surgical procedure varied, but 64% had autograft regurgitation as 1 of their indications for reoperation. Autograft interventions were performed in 78 patients (74.2%). Pulmonary valve or conduit replacement was performed in 56 patients (53.3%). Double root replacement was performed in 11 patients (10.5%). Aortic reconstruction was performed in 37 patients (38.4%). There were 5 early deaths (5%). During a median follow-up of 6.25 years (3 months-24 years), late deaths occurred in 14 patients (13.1%). Patients with ejection fraction <30% on preoperative echocardiography had shorter duration between the Ross procedure and subsequent reoperation (P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Reoperations after the Ross procedure are performed for a wide range of indications, with most due to autograft dysfunction. The number of early deaths is not low. Reoperation after the Ross procedure should be advised before left ventricular systolic dysfunction.

Ventricular arrhythmias following balloon-expandable transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement in the native right ventricular outflow tract

BACKGROUND

Ventricular arrhythmia incidence in children and adolescents undergoing transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) within the native right ventricular outflow tract (nRVOT) is unknown. We sought to describe the incidence, severity, and duration of ventricular arrhythmias and identify associated risk factors in this population.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 78 patients <21 years of age who underwent TPVR within the nRVOT. Patients were excluded for pre-existing ventricular arrhythmia or antiarrhythmic use. Study variables included surgical history, valve replacement indication, valve type/size, and ventricular arrhythmia. Univariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with ventricular arrhythmias, followed by subset analyses.

RESULTS

Nonsustained ventricular arrhythmia occurred in 26/78 patients (33.3%). The median age at the procedure was 10.3 years (interquartle range [IQR]: 6.5, 12.8). Compared with other nRVOT types, surgical repair with transannular patch was protective against ventricular arrhythmia incidence: odds ratio (OR): 0.35 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.13-0.95). Patient weight, valve type/size, number of prestents, and degree of stent extension into the RVOT were not associated with ventricular arrhythmia occurrence. Beta blocker was started in 16/26 (61.5%) patients with ventricular arrhythmia. One additional patient was lost to follow-up. The median beta blocker duration was 46 days (IQR 42, 102). Beta blocker was discontinued in 10 patients by 8-week follow-up and in the remaining four by 9 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Though common after balloon-expandable TPVR within the nRVOT, ventricular arrhythmias were benign and transient. Antiarrhythmic medications were successfully discontinued in the majority at 6- to 8-week follow-up, and in all patients by 20 months.

Long-term outcomes of transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation with melody and SAPIEN valves

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI) is effective for treating right ventricle outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction. Factors associated with long-term valve durability remain to be investigated.

METHODS

Consecutive patients successfully treated by TPVI with Melody valves (n = 32) and SAPIEN valves (n = 182) between 2008 and 2020 at a single tertiary centre were included prospectively and monitored.

RESULTS

The 214 patients had a median age of 28 years (range, 10-81). The RVOT was a patched native pulmonary artery in 96 (44.8%) patients. Median follow-up was 2.8 years (range, 3 months-11.4 years). Secondary pulmonary valve replacement (sPVR) was performed in 23 cases (10.7%), due to stenosis (n = 22, 95.7%) or severe regurgitation (n = 1, 4.3%), yielding an incidence of 7.6/100 patient-years with melody valves and 1.3/100 patient-years with SAPIEN valves (P = 0.06). The 5- and 10-year sPVR-freedom rates were 78.1% and 50.4% with Melody vs. 94.3% and 82.2% with SAPIEN, respectively (P = 0.06). The incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) was 5.5/100 patient-years with Melody and 0.2/100 patient-years with SAPIEN (P < 0.0001). Factors associated with sPVR by univariate analysis were RV obstruction before TPVI (P = 0.04), transpulmonary maximal velocity > 2.7 m/s after TPVI (p = 0.0005), valve diameter ≤ 22 mm (P < 0.003), IE (P < 0.0001), and age < 25 years at TPVI (P = 0.04). By multivariate analysis adjusted for IE occurrence, transpulmonary maximal velocity remained associated with sPVR.

CONCLUSIONS

TPVI is effective for treating RVOT dysfunction. Incidence of sPVR is higher in patients with residual RV obstruction or IE. IE add a substantial risk of TPVI graft failure and is mainly linked to the Melody valve.

SOCIAL MEDIA ABSTRACT

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation is effective for treating right ventricular outflow tract dysfunction in patients with congenital heart diseases. Incidence of secondary valve replacement is higher in patients with residual obstruction or infective endocarditis.

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement in congenital heart diseases

Surgical repair of a variety of congenital heart diseases involves repair of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) with valved or non-valved conduit to connect the right ventricle (RV) to the pulmonary artery (PA) or just patch enlargement of the native RVOT. With time, this RV-PA conduit will degenerate with deterioration of function, either causing pulmonary stenosis or pulmonary regurgitation. This RVOT dysfunction may result in RV dilation, RV dysfunction, and eventual RV failure and arrhythmias. Multiple surgical pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) is often required throughout the patient's lifetime. Patients are subjected to increased risks with each additional cardiac operation. Transcatheter PVR (TPVR) has been developed over the past two decades as a valuable non-surgical alternative to restore the RVOT and RV function, and hence reduce patients' lifetime risks related to surgery. This article will discuss the long-term results of TPVR which are demonstrated to be comparable to surgical results and the latest development of large pulmonary valves which will allow TPVR to be performed on native or larger RVOT.

Ten Years of Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation in Australia and New Zealand

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to investigate the characteristics, morbidity (including the rate of infective endocarditis and valve replacement) and mortality of individuals undergoing percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in Australia and New Zealand since the procedure has been performed.

BACKGROUND

The outcomes of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in Australia and New Zealand have not been evaluated. Recent international data, including patients from New Zealand, suggests the rate of infective endocarditis is not insignificant.

METHODS

A retrospective multi-site cohort study was undertaken via medical record review at the centres where percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation has been performed. All procedures performed from 2009-March 2018 were included. Individuals were identified from local institution databases. Data was collected and analysed including demographics, details at the time of intervention, haemodynamic outcome, post procedure morbidity and mortality. Multi-site ethics approval was obtained.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-nine (179) patients attended the cardiac catheter laboratory for planned percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation. Of these patients, 172 underwent successful implantation. Tetralogy of Fallot and pulmonary atresia were the most common diagnoses. The median age at procedure was 19 years (range 3-60 yrs). There was a significant improvement in the acute haemodynamics in patients undergoing percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation for stenosis. Seven (7) patients (3.9%) experienced a major procedural/early post procedure complication (death, conversion to open procedure, cardiac arrest), including two deaths. The annualised rates of infective endocarditis and valve replacement were 4.6% and 3.8% respectively. There was one death related to infective endocarditis in follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement is a relatively safe method of rehabilitating the right ventricular outflow tract.

Pre- and Postprocedure Imaging of Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Implantation

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) is a minimally invasive procedure for treatment of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) dysfunction in surgically repaired congenital heart diseases. TPVR is performed in these patients to avoid the high risk and complexity of repeat surgeries. Several TPVR devices are now available to be placed in the right ventricle (RV) to pulmonary artery (PA) conduit, native RVOT, or surgical bioprosthetic valves. Imaging is used before TPVR to determine patient eligibility and optimal timing, which is critical to avoid irreversible RV dilatation and failure. Imaging is also required for evaluation of contraindications, particularly proximity of the RVOT to the left main coronary artery and its branches. Cross-sectional imaging provides details of the complex anatomy in which the TPVR device will be positioned and measurements of the RVOT, RV-PA conduit, or PA. Echocardiography is the first-line imaging modality for evaluation of the RVOT or conduit to determine the need for intervention, although its utility is limited by the complex RVOT morphology and altered anatomy after surgery. CT and MRI provide complementary information for TPVR, including patient eligibility, assessment of contraindications, and key measurements of the RVOT and PA, which are necessary for procedure planning. TPVR, performed using a cardiac catheterization procedure, includes a sizing step in which a balloon is expanded in the RVOT, which also allows assessment of the risk for extrinsic coronary artery compression. Follow-up imaging with CT and MRI is used for evaluation of postprocedure remodeling and valve function and to monitor complications. ^©RSNA, 2022 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

Nationwide Registry-Based Analysis of Infective Endocarditis Risk After Pulmonary Valve Replacement

Background Infective endocarditis (IE) after pulmonary valve replacements in congenital heart disease is a significant concern. This study aimed to identify specific long-term risk factors for IE after percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation or surgical pulmonary valve replacement. Methods and Results All patients with congenital heart disease from the National Register for Congenital Heart Defects with at least 1 pulmonary valve replacement before January 2018 were included. A total of 1170 patients (56.3% men, median age at study inclusion 12 [interquartile range {Q1-Q3} 5-20 years]) received 1598 pulmonary valve replacements. IE occurred in 4.8% of patients during a follow-up of total 9397 patient-years (median 10 [Q1-Q3, 6-10] years per patient). After homograft implantation 7 of 558 (1.3%) patients developed IE, after heterograft implantation 31 of 723 (4.3%) patients, and after Melody valve implantation 18 of 241 (7.5%) patients. Edwards Sapien and mechanical valves were used less frequently and remained without IE. The incidence of IE in heterografts excluding Contegra valves was 7 of 278 (2.5%), whereas the incidence of IE in Contegra valves was 24 of 445 (5.4%). The risk of IE was not increased compared with homografts if Contegra valves were excluded from the heterografts (hazard ratio [HR], 2.60; P=0.075). The risk of IE was increased for bovine jugular vein valves, Contegra valves (HR, 6.72; P<0.001), and Melody valves (HR, 5.49; P<0.001), but did not differ between Melody valves and Contegra valves (HR, 1.01; P=0.978). Conclusions Bovine jugular vein valves have the highest risk of IE, irrespective of the mode of deployment, either surgical or percutaneous.

Echocardiographic Assessment of Melody Versus Sapien Valves Following Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the immediate and midterm echocardiographic performance of the Melody (Medtronic Inc) and Sapien (Edwards Lifesciences Inc) valves after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) in native and conduit right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOTs).

BACKGROUND

TPVR is now a common procedure, but limited data exist comparing postimplantation echocardiographic findings between Melody and Sapien valves.

METHODS

This was a single-institution retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent successful TPVR from 2011 to 2020. Patient demographics, procedural details, and immediate and midterm echocardiographic findings were collected and compared between valve types using the Wilcoxon rank sum, chi-square, or Fisher exact test as appropriate. Subgroups were analyzed individually and were adjusted for multiple comparisons using the Bonferroni method.

RESULTS

A total of 328 patients underwent successful TPVR (Melody: n = 202, Sapien: n = 126). The groups had a similar baseline age, weight, and diagnosis. The most common indications for TPVR were pulmonary stenosis (32.2%) or mixed disease (46%) in the Melody group and pulmonary insufficiency in the Sapien group (52.4%) (P < 0.001). Sapien valves were more often placed in native RVOTs (43.7% vs 18.8%; P < 0.001). The discharge and follow-up mean and peak Doppler gradients were similar between the Melody and Sapien groups. Valves implanted in native RVOTs had significantly lower postimplantation gradients at each follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Echocardiographic performance after TPVR was generally acceptable and similar when comparing Melody and Sapien valves despite differences in the indication and anatomy in each group. The peak and mean gradients were lower in transcatheter valves implanted in native RVOTs compared with those implanted in conduits or bioprosthetic valves.

Ventricular Arrhythmias and Sudden Death Following Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation in Pediatric Patients

Reports have suggested a transient increase in ventricular ectopy early after percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI). Little is known about the potential for more serious ventricular arrhythmias (VA) in children who undergo PPVI. We sought to evaluate the incidence of severe VA following PPVI in a pediatric population and to explore potential predictive factors. A retrospective cohort study was conducted of patients who underwent PPVI under 20 years of age in our institution from January 2007 to December 2019. The primary outcome of severe VA was defined as sustained and/or hemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT), inducible sustained VT, or sudden death of presumed arrhythmic etiology. A total of 21 patients (mean age 16.2 ± 2.1 years; 66.7% male) underwent PPVI. The majority of patients (N = 15; 71.4%) had tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) or TOF-like physiology, with the most common indication being pulmonary insufficiency (N = 10; 47.6%). During a median follow-up of 29.6 months (IQR 10.9-44.0), severe VA occurred in 3 (14.3%) patients aged 15.6 (IQR 14.7-16.1) a median of 12.3 months (IQR 11.2-22.3) after PPVI. All events occurred in patients with TOF-like physiology following Melody valve implant. In conclusion, severe VA can occur long after PPVI in a pediatric population, particularly in those with TOF-like physiology. Further studies are required to elucidate underlying mechanisms and assess strategies to mitigate risks.

Transcatheter treatment of complex pulmonic and aortic valvular disease following failed Ross procedure

A 63-year-old man with congenital bicuspid aortic valve disease and complex surgical history (that includes a Ross procedure complicated by cardiac arrest requiring emergency coronary artery bypass graft surgery, multiple subsequent sternotomies to treat a failed pulmonic homograft and pseudoaneurysm repair of the left and right ventricular outflow tracts (LVOT/RVOT), bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement, and aortic valve endocarditis) presented with worsening heart failure symptoms secondary to bioprosthetic aortic valve failure and recurrent pulmonic valve stenosis successfully treated with transcatheter intervention.

Multicenter Study of Endocarditis After Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Endocarditis has emerged as one of the most impactful adverse events after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR), but there is limited information about risk factors for and outcomes of this complication.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate risk factors for and outcomes of endocarditis in a large multicenter cohort.

METHODS

The authors established an international registry focused on characterizing endocarditis after TPVR, including the incidence, risk factors, characteristics, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Investigators submitted data for 2,476 patients who underwent TPVR between July 2005 and March 2020 and were followed for 8,475 patient-years. In total, 182 patients were diagnosed with endocarditis a median of 2.7 years after TPVR, for a cumulative incidence of 9.5% (95% CI: 7.9%-11.1%) at 5 years and 16.9% (95% CI: 14.2%-19.8%) at 8 years (accounting for competing risks: death, heart transplant, and explant) and an annualized incidence of 2.2 per 100 patient-years. Staphylococcus aureus and Viridans group Streptococcus species together accounted for 56% of cases. Multivariable analysis confirmed that younger age, a previous history of endocarditis, and a higher residual gradient were risk factors for endocarditis, but transcatheter pulmonary valve type was not. Overall, right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) reintervention was less often to treat endocarditis than for other reasons, but valve explant was more often caused by endocarditis. Endocarditis was severe in 44% of patients, and 12 patients (6.6%) died, nearly all of whom were infected with Staphylococcus aureus.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of endocarditis in this multicenter registry was constant over time and consistent with prior smaller studies. The findings of this study, along with ongoing efforts to understand and mitigate risk, will be critical to improve the lifetime management of patients with heart disease involving the RVOT. Although endocarditis can be a serious adverse outcome, TPVR remains an important tool in the management of RVOT dysfunction.

The challenges of an aging tetralogy of Fallot population

Introduction: Advancements in surgery and management have resulted in a growing population of aging adults with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). As a result, there has been a parallel growth in late complications associated with the sequelae from the underlying cardiac anomalies as well as the surgical and other interventional treatments.Areas covered: Here, we review challenges related to an aging population of patients with TOF, particularly late complications, and highlight advances in management and key areas for future research. Pulmonary regurgitation, heart failure, arrhythmias, and aortic complications are some of these late complications. There is also a growing incidence of acquired cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes associated with aging. Management of these late complications and acquired comorbidities continues to evolve as research provides insights into long-term outcomes from medical therapies and surgical interventions.Expert opinion: The management of an aging TOF population will continue to transform with advances in imaging technologies to identify subclinical disease and valve replacement technologies that will prevent and mitigate disease progression. In the coming years, we speculate that there will be more data to support the use of novel heart failure therapies in TOF and consensus guidelines on the management of refractory arrhythmias and aortic complications.

Contrast-free percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement: a safe approach for valve-in-valve procedures

Introduction

Percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement (PPVI) continues to gather pace in pediatric and adult congenital practice. This is fueled by an expanding repertoire of devices, techniques and equipment to suit the heterogenous anatomical landscape of patients with lesions of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). Contrast-induced nephropathy is a real risk for teenagers and adults with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Aim

To present a series of patients who underwent PPVI without formal RVOT angiography and propose case selection criteria for patients who may safely benefit from this approach.

Material and methods

We retrospectively collected PPVI data from the preceding 2 years at our institution identifying patients who had been listed as suitable for consideration for contrast-free PPVI from our multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting based on predefined criteria. Demographic, clinical, imaging and hemodynamic data were collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS.

Results

Twenty-one patients were identified. All patients had a technically successful implantation with improvements seen in invasive and echocardiographic hemodynamic measurements. 90% of patients had a bio-prosthetic valve (BPV) in situ prior to PPVI. One patient had a complication which may have been recognized earlier with post-intervention RVOT contrast injection.

Conclusions

Zero-contrast PPVI is technically feasible and the suitability criteria for those who might benefit are potentially straightforward. The advent of fusion and 3D imaging in cardiac catheterization laboratories is likely to expand our capacity to perform more procedures with less contrast. Patients with bio-prosthetic valves in the pulmonary position may benefit from contrast-free percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation.

Edwards SAPIEN XT transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation: 5-year follow-up in a French Registry

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to investigate patient intermediate-term outcomes after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) with Edwards SAPIEN valve.

BACKGROUND

The Edwards SAPIEN valve, initially designed for percutaneous aortic valve replacement, has been approved for TPVR in patients with dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOT), but only short-term follow-up has been reported.

METHODS

From 2011 to 2016, 62 patients undergoing successful TPVR using the SAPIEN XT valve were consecutively included into the study. Primary efficacy and safety endpoints were defined as freedom from valve-reintervention and freedom from infective endocarditis at last follow-up, respectively.

RESULTS

The primary efficacy outcome was met for 87.1% patients after a mean follow-up of 4.6 ± 1.8 years, corresponding to a freedom of reintervention at 5 years of 89% (95% CI 74.8-95.6%). Reinterventions were exclusively due to recurrent obstruction, no significant valvular regurgitation was observed. One case of infective endocarditis was reported, corresponding to a rate of 0.35% per patient-year (95% CI 0.01-2.00%). At 5 years, freedom from infective endocarditis was 98.4% (95% CI 89.1-99.8%). Six patients died or were transplanted due to advanced cardiac failure, without relationship with TPVR. In univariate analysis, reintervention was associated with young age, a smaller tube-graft, a higher pulmonary valve gradient after the procedure and a ratio of largest implanted stent diameter to invasive balloon conduit diameter over 1.35.

CONCLUSIONS

This study documents the mid-term safety and efficacy of the Edwards SAPIEN XT valve in patients with dysfunctional RVOT, and identifies a patient profile associated with an uncertain benefit-risk balance.

Time-related risk of pulmonary conduit re-replacement: a Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society Study

BACKGROUND

Patients receiving a right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery conduit in infancy will require successive procedures or replacements, each with variable longevity. We sought to identify factors associated with time-related risk of a subsequent surgical replacement (PC3) or transcatheter pulmonary valve insertion (TPVI) after a second surgically-placed PC (PC2).

METHODS

From 2002 to 2016, 630 patients from 29 Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society member institutions survived to discharge after initial valved PC insertion (PC1) at age < 2 years. Of those, 355 had undergone surgical replacement (PC2) of that initial conduit. Competing risk methodology and multiphase parametric hazard analyses were used to identify factors associated with time-related risk of PC3 or TPVI.

RESULTS

Of 355 PC2 patients (median follow-up of 5.3 years), 65 underwent PC3 and 41 TPVI. Factors at PC2 associated with increased time-related risk of PC3 were smaller PC2 Z score (Hazard Ratio [HR] 1.6, p<0.001), concomitant aortic valve intervention (HR 7.6, p=0.009), aortic allograft (HR 2.2, p=0.008), younger age (HR 1.4, p<0.001), and larger Z score of PC1 (HR 1.2, p=0.04). Factors at PC2 associated with increased time-related risk of TPVI were aortic allograft (HR: 3.3, p=0.006), porcine unstented conduit (HR 4.7, p<0.001), and older age (HR 2.3, p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic allograft as PC2 was associated with increased time-related risk of both PC3 and TPVI. Surgeons may reduce risk of these subsequent procedures by not selecting an aortic homograft at PC2, and by oversizing the conduit when anatomically feasible.

Transcatheter pulmonic valve implantation: Techniques, current roles, and future implications

Right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) obstruction is present in a variety of congenital heart disease states including tetralogy of Fallot, pulmonary atresia/stenosis and other conotruncal abnormalities etc. After surgical repair, these patients develop RVOT residual abnormalities of pulmonic stenosis and/or insufficiency of their native outflow tract or right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit. There are also sequelae of other surgeries like the Ross operation for aortic valve disease that lead to right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit dysfunction. Surgical pulmonic valve replacement (SPVR) has been the mainstay for these patients and is considered standard of care. Transcatheter pulmonic valve implantation (TPVI) was first reported in 2000 and has made strides as a comparable alternative to SPVR, being approved in the United States in 2010. We provide a comprehensive review in this space–indications for TPVI, detailed procedural facets and up-to-date review of the literature regarding outcomes of TPVI. TPVI has been shown to have favorable medium-term outcomes free of re-interventions especially after the adoption of the practice of pre-stenting the RVOT. Procedural mortality and complications are uncommon. With more experience, recognition of risk of dreaded outcomes like coronary compression has improved. Also, conduit rupture is increasingly being managed with transcatheter tools. Questions over endocarditis risk still prevail in the TPVI population. Head-to-head comparisons to SPVR are still limited but available data suggests equivalence. We also discuss newer valve technologies that have limited data currently and may have more applicability for treatment of native dysfunctional RVOT substrates.

Mid-Term Outcomes Following Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation Using the "Folded Melody Valve" Technique

Background:

The folded valve is a manual shortening of the Melody device, which has been validated as a valuable therapeutic option for the management of dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tracts needing a short valved stent. In this article, we aimed to evaluate, in a multicenter cohort, the mid-term outcomes of patients in whom a percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation was performed using the folded valve technique.

Methods:

A 2012 to 2018 retrospective multicenter study was performed in 7 European institutions. All patients who benefit from percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation with a folded Melody valve were included.

Results:

A total of 49 patients (median age, 19 years [range 4–56], 63% male) were included. The primary percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation indication was right ventricular outflow tract stenosis (n=19; 39%), patched native right ventricular outflow tracts were the most common substrate (n=15; 31%). The folded technique was mostly used in short right ventricular outflow tracts (n=28; 57%). Procedural success was 100%. After a median follow-up of 28 months (range, 4–80), folded Melody valve function was comparable to the immediate postimplantation period (mean transvalvular peak velocity=2.6±0.6 versus 2.4±0.6 m/s, P>0.1; only 2 patients had mild pulmonary regurgitation). Incidence rate of valve-related reinterventions was 2.1% per person per year (95% CI, 0.1%–3.9%). The probability of survival without valve-related reinterventions at 36 months was 90% (95% CI, 76%–100%).

Conclusions:

The folded Melody valve is a safe technique with favorable mid-term outcomes up to 6.5 years after implantation, comparable with the usual Melody valve implantation procedure. Complications and reinterventions rates were low, making this technique relevant in selected patients.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement With the Sapien Prosthesis

BACKGROUND

There are limited published data focused on outcomes of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) with either a Sapien XT or Sapien 3 (S3) valve.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to report short-term outcomes in a large cohort of patients who underwent TPVR with either a Sapien XT or S3 valve.

METHODS

Data were entered retrospectively into a multicenter registry for patients who underwent attempted TPVR with a Sapien XT or S3 valve. Patient-related, procedural, and short-term outcomes data were characterized overall and according to type of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) anatomy.

RESULTS

Twenty-three centers enrolled a total of 774 patients: 397 (51%) with a native/patched RVOT; 183 (24%) with a conduit; and 194 (25%) with a bioprosthetic valve. The S3 was used in 78% of patients, and the XT was used in 22%, with most patients receiving a 29-mm (39%) or 26-mm (34%) valve. The implant was technically successful in 754 (97.4%) patients. Serious adverse events were reported in 67 patients (10%), with no difference between RVOT anatomy groups. Fourteen patients underwent urgent surgery. Nine patients had a second valve implanted. Among patients with available data, tricuspid valve injury was documented in 11 (1.7%), and 9 others (1.3%) had new moderate or severe regurgitation 2 grades higher than pre-implantation, for 20 (3.0%) total patients with tricuspid valve complications. Valve function at discharge was excellent in most patients, but 58 (8.5%) had moderate or greater pulmonary regurgitation or maximum Doppler gradients >40 mm Hg. During limited follow-up (n = 349; median: 12 months), 9 patients were diagnosed with endocarditis, and 17 additional patients underwent surgical valve replacement or valve-in-valve TPVR.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute outcomes after TPVR with balloon-expandable valves were generally excellent in all types of RVOT. Additional data and longer follow-up will be necessary to gain insight into these issues.

Aortic Root Distortion During Balloon Angioplasty of Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Prior to Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Implantation

We describe our experience with aortic root distortion in transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (TPVI). Aortic root distortion (AD) can be observed with balloon angioplasty of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), but its long-term significance is unknown. This has been a common finding in our institution, though not fully appreciated in our early experience. Retrospective review of procedural angiograms prior to TPVI and follow up imaging was performed. Between June 2012 and October 2017, 47 patients underwent catheterization to attempt TPVI. Five patients had coronary compression which precluded TPVI (one with significant AD as well). Four patients had significant AD and did not receive TPVI. Of the remaining 38 successful TPVI, 20 had adequate imaging to assess the aortic root. Four patients had severe AD, 7 had mild AD, and 9 with no AD. Severity of AI did not correlate with degree of AD. Median follow up after TPVI was 46 months (IQR 21-67). Of the 4 patients with severe AD who received TPVI, 1 has new mild AI with 78 months follow up. Of the 18 patients who received TPVI without adequate arch imaging, 2 patients have new mild AI with 86 and 75 months follow up. AD during RVOT angioplasty is a relatively common finding. In our early experience, some patients who were retrospectively identified to have severe AD received TPVI. These patients have done well, though further data is needed before considering severe AD a benign finding.

Preclinical study of a self-expanding pulmonary valve for the treatment of pulmonary valve disease

In the past decade, balloon-expandable percutaneous pulmonary valves have been developed and applied in clinical practice. However, all the existing products of pulmonary artery interventional valves in the market have a straight structure design, and they require a preset support frame and balloon expansion. This shape design of the valve limits the application range. In addition, the age of the population with pulmonary artery disease is generally low, and the existing products cannot meet the needs of anti-calcification properties and valve material durability. In this study, through optimization of the support frame and leaflet design, a self-expanding pulmonary valve product with a double bell-shaped frame was designed to improve the match of the valve and the implantation site. A loading and deployment study showed that the biomaterial of the valve was not damaged after being compressed. Pulsatile flow and fatigue in vitro tests showed that the fabricated pulmonary valve met the hydrodynamic requirements after 2 × 10⁸ accelerated fatigue cycles. The safety and efficacy of the pulmonary valve product were demonstrated in studies of pulmonary valve implantation in 11 pigs. Angiography and echocardiography showed that the pulmonary valves were implanted in a good position, and they had normal closure and acceptable valvular regurgitation. The 180 days' implantation results showed that the calcium content was 0.31-1.39 mg/g in the anti-calcification treatment group, which was significantly lower than that in the control valve without anti-calcification treatment (16.69 mg/g). Our new interventional pulmonary valve product was ready for clinical trials and product registration.

Prevention and management of endocarditis after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement: current status and future prospects

Introduction: Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) has become an important tool in the management of congenital heart disease with abnormalities of the right ventricular outflow tract. Endocarditis is one of the most serious adverse long-term outcomes and among the leading causes of death in patients with congenital heart disease and after (TPVR).Areas covered: This review discusses the current state knowledge about the risk factors for and outcomes of endocarditis after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement in patients with congenital and acquired heart disease. It also addresses practical measures for mitigating endocarditis risk, as well as diagnosing and managing endocarditis when it does occur.Expert opinion: With increasing understanding of the risk factors for and management and outcomes of endocarditis in patients who have undergone TPVR, we continue to learn how to utilize TPVR most effectively in this complex population of patients.

Preventing tricuspid valve injury during transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement

The transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement technique has evolved over the past decade. There is risk of injuring the tricuspid valve if the transcatheter device is advanced uncovered across the right heart. Advancing a long sheath past the landing zone and uncovering the device can help mitigate this risk, at the expense of requiring larger-caliber sheaths. Additional refinements of the technique such as the one reported here, along with improvements in device design, are likely to further reduce complications.

Pulmonary regurgitation after repaired tetralogy of Fallot: surgical versus percutaneous treatment

Pulmonary regurgitation is the most important sequellae after correction of Tetralogy of Fallot and has a considerable impact over the right ventricle. Surgery has demonstrated low early mortality after pulmonary valve replacement and good long-term outcomes, remaining nowadays the gold standard treatment of pulmonary regurgitation in rTOF patients. Nevertheless, transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation has emerged as a new, safe and efficient alternative to surgical valve replacement. In this review article, we try to evaluate and compare both techniques to find out which is the best therapeutic option in this patients.

Utility of Three-Dimensional (3D) Modeling for Planning Structural Heart Interventions (with an Emphasis on Valvular Heart Disease)

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Advanced imaging has played a vital role in the contemporary, rapid rise of structural heart interventions. 3D modeling and printing has emerged as one of the most recent imaging tools and the implementation of 3D modeling is expected to increase with further advances in imaging, print hardware, and materials.

RECENT FINDINGS

3D modeling can be used to educate patients and clinical teams, provide ex vivo procedural simulation, and improve outcomes. Intra-procedural success rates may be improved, and post-procedural complications can be predicted more robustly with appropriate application of 3D modeling. Recent advances in technology have increased the availability of this tool, such that there can be more ready adoption into a routine clinical workflow. Familiarity with 3D modeling and its current utilization and role in structural interventions will help inform how to approach and adapt this exciting new technology.