Impact of Tricuspid Regurgitation on Outcomes After Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement

Development of functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) because of chronic mitral disease and subsequent heart failure is common. However, the effect of TR on clinical outcomes after transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the impact of baseline TR on outcomes after TMVR. This was a single-center, retrospective analysis of patients who received valve-in-valve or valve-in-ring TMVR between 2012 and 2022. Patients were categorized into none/mild TR and moderate/severe TR based on baseline echocardiography. The primary outcome was 3 years all-cause death and the secondary outcomes were in-hospital events. Of the 135 patients who underwent TMVR, 64 (47%) exhibited none/mild TR at baseline, whereas 71 (53%) demonstrated moderate/severe TR. There were no significant differences in in-hospital events between the groups. At 3 years, the moderate/severe TR group exhibited a significantly increased risk of all-cause death (adjusted hazard ratio 3.37, 95% confidence interval 1.35 to 8.41, p = 0.009). When patients with baseline moderate/severe TR were stratified by echocardiography at 30 days into improved (36%) and nonimproved (64%) TR groups, although limited by small sample size, there was no significant difference in 3-year all-cause mortality (p = 0.48). In conclusion, this study investigating the impact of baseline TR on clinical outcomes revealed that moderate/severe TR is prevalent in those who underwent TMVR and is an independent predictor of 3-year all-cause mortality. Earlier mitral valve intervention before the development of significant TR may play a pivotal role in improving outcomes after TMVR.

Echocardiographic Profiling Predicts Clinical Outcomes After Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

BACKGROUND

Prior studies investigating the impact of residual mitral regurgitation (MR), tricuspid regurgitation (TR), and elevated predischarge transmitral mean pressure gradient (TMPG) on outcomes after mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) have assessed each parameter in isolation. We sought to examine the prognostic value of combining predischarge MR, TR, and TMPG to study long-term outcomes after TEER.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We reviewed the records of 291 patients who underwent successful mitral TEER at our institution between March 2014 and June 2022. Using well-established outcomes-related cutoffs for predischarge MR (≥moderate), TR (≥moderate), and TMPG (≥5 mm Hg), 3 echo profiles were developed based on the number of risk factors present (optimal: 0 risk factors, mixed: 1 risk factor, poor: ≥2 risk factors). Discrimination of the profiles for predicting the primary composite end point of all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization at 2 years was examined using Cox regression. Overall, mean age was 76.7±10.6 years, 43.3% were women, and 53% had primary MR. Two-year event-free survival was 61%. Predischarge TR≥moderate, MR≥moderate, and TMPG≥5 mm Hg were risk factors associated with the primary end point. Compared with the optimal profile, there was an incremental risk in 2-year event-rate with each worsening profile (optimal as reference; mixed profile: hazard ratio (HR), 2.87 [95% CI, 1.71-5.17], P<0.001; poor profile: HR, 3.76 [95% CI, 1.84-6.53], P<0.001). Echocardiographic profile was statistically associated with the 2-year mortality end point (optimal as reference; mixed profile: HR, 3.55 [95% CI, 1.81-5.96], P<0.001; poor profile: HR, 3.39 [95% CI, 2.56-7.33], P=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The echocardiographic profile integrating predischarge TR, MR, and TMPG presents a novel prognostic stratification tool for patients undergoing mitral TEER.

A comprehensive overview of surgical and transcatheter therapies to treat tricuspid regurgitation in patients with heart failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The unique pathophysiologic considerations of severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) have led to advancements in surgical and transcatheter treatments. The purpose of this review is to highlight the current surgical and transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions (TTVI) to functional TR.

RECENT FINDINGS

Surgical repair with ring annuloplasty consistently demonstrates better outcomes than surgical replacement or other repair approaches. However, surgical uptake of TR correction remains relatively low, and operative mortality rates are still high owing to multiple comorbidities and advanced tricuspid valve disease/right ventricular dysfunction at time of referral. Pivotal trials for tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER) and transcatheter TV replacement (TTVR) indicate improved quality of life compared to medical therapy alone for high-surgical-risk patients with severe symptomatic TR. Trials are underway to assess caval valve implantation (CAVI), which holds hope for many severe TR patients who are not ideal candidates for T-TEER or orthotopic TTVR. Peri-procedural optimization of right ventricular function remains critical to promote both device success and patient outcomes.

SUMMARY

Clinical outcomes after surgical TV intervention are poor, often due to intervening late in the disease course of TR. TTVI covers a treatment gap for patients deemed inoperable or high-surgical-risk, but earlier referral for TV interventions is still important prior to patients developing multiorgan dysfunction from chronic untreated TR.

Renal Outcomes Following Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair - Analysis of COAPT Trial Data

The prevalence of valvular heart disease in the United States has been estimated at 4.2-to-5.6 million, with mitral regurgitation (MR) being the most common lesion. Significant MR is associated with heart failure (HF) and death if left untreated. When HF is present, renal dysfunction (RD) is common and is associated with worse outcomes (ie, it is a marker of HF disease progression). Additionally, a complex interplay exists in patients with HF who also have MR, as this combination further impairs renal function, and the presence of RD further worsens prognosis and often limits guideline-directed management and therapy (GDMT). This has important implications in secondary MR because GDMT is the standard of care. However, with the development of minimally invasive transcatheter mitral valve repair, mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) has become a new treatment option for secondary MR that is now incorporated into current guidelines published in 2020 that listed mitral TEER as a class 2a recommendation (moderate recommendation with benefit >> risk) as an addition to GDMT in a subset of patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <50%. The Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients with Functional Mitral Regurgitation (COAPT) trial, which demonstrated favorable outcomes in secondary MR by adding mitral TEER to GDMT versus GDMT alone, was the evidence base for these guidelines. Considering these guidelines and the understanding that concomitant RD often limits GDMT in secondary MR, there is emerging research studying the renal outcomes from the COAPT trial. This review analyzes this evidence, which could further influence current decision-making and future guidelines.

Predictors of Improvement in Concomitant Tricuspid Regurgitation Following Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Mitral Valve Repair

BACKGROUND

Improvement in concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) for mitral regurgitation (MR) occurs frequently; however factors determining the post-procedural course of TR are not well understood. We investigated the parameters associated with TR improvement after M-TEER.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 300 patients were consecutively included in this retrospective analysis. MR and TR severity as well as heart chamber metrics were assessed before the procedure and at follow-up. Device success was achieved in 97.3% of patients. TR decreased in 30.2% of patients. Patients with improved TR were more often female, had more severe TR at baseline, and their right heart dimensions at baseline trended to be smaller. Female sex (odds ratio (OR) 2.997), baseline MR-Grade (OR 3.181) and baseline TR-Grade (OR 2.653) independently predicted TR reduction. More pronounced right heart reverse remodeling was observed in patients with improved TR. TR regression independently predicted lower mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 0.333, 95% confidence interval 0.112-0.996, p = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

A reduction in concomitant TR severity after M-TEER occurred mainly in females and in patients with high-grade TR and MR at baseline. TR regression is associated with better survival after M-TEER.

Impact of concomitant tricuspid regurgitation on outcome after edge-to-edge mitral valve repair

AIMS

To evaluate the impact of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) on echocardiographic and functional outcome after mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge-repair (M-TEER).

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 740 patients underwent M-TEER at our center from 2010 to 2021. Patients were analyzed according to severity of concomitant TR at the time of M-TEER procedure: low-grade TR (grade ≤I [trace-mild], 279 patients [37.7%]), moderate TR (grade II, 170 patients [23.0%]) and high-grade TR (grade III-V [severe-torrential], 291 patients [39.3%]). Patients with moderate to high-grade TR had higher morbidity. Procedural success of M-TEER was achieved similarly in all groups (98.2% vs. 97.6% vs. 95.9%, p = 0.22). TR severity decreased rapidly and consistently after M-TEER to only 48.0% of high-grade TR patients after 3 months (p < 0.001) and to 46.8% after 12 months (p = 0.99). High-grade TR patients had significantly higher mortality (21.5% vs. 18.2% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.003) up to 12 months after M-TEER. However, high-grade TR did not independently predict mortality (HR 1.302, 95% CI 0.937-1.810; p = 0.116). Echocardiographic and functional outcome was similar in both secondary and primary MR patients.

CONCLUSIONS

High-grade concomitant TR did not independently predict adverse outcome following M-TEER. A wait-and-observe approach for these patients is reasonable.

Tricuspid Regurgitation Management for Heart Failure

There is growing evidence that severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) impacts clinical outcomes in a variety of cardiovascular disease states. The late presentation of patients with advanced TR highlights the underappreciation of the disease, as well as the pitfalls of current guideline-directed medical management. Given the high in-hospital mortality associated with isolated tricuspid valve surgery, transcatheter options continue to be explored with the hope of improved survival and reduced heart failure hospitalizations. In this review, we explore the physiology of TR, discuss the etiologic classes of TR, and explore the transcatheter options for treatment and who might benefit from device therapy.

Tricuspid repair in mitral regurgitation surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Concomitant tricuspid repair in MR surgery is indicated in patients with severa tricuspid regurgitation, however, concomitant repair in less-than-severe TR patients is still a matter of debate.

METHODS

In December 2021, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases for randomised control trials (RCTs) comparing isolated MR surgery versus MR surgery with concomitant TR annuloplasty. Four studies were included, resulting in 651 patients (323 in the prophylactic tricuspid intervention group and 328 in the no tricuspid intervention group).

RESULTS

Our meta-analysis showed a similar all-cause mortality and perioperative mortality for concomitant prophylactic tricuspid repair when compared with no tricuspid intervention (pooled odds ratio (OR), 0.54; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25-1.15, P = 0.11; I² = 0% and pooled OR, 0.54; 95% CI: 0.25-1.15, P = 0.11; I² = 0%, respectively) in patients undergoing MV surgery. despite a significantly lower TR progression (pooled OR, 0.06; 95% CI: 0.02-0.24, P < 0.01; I² = 0%). Additionally, similar New York Heart Association (NYHA) classes III and IV were identified in both concomitant prophylactic tricuspid repair and no tricuspid intervention, despite a lower trend in the tricuspid intervention group (pooled OR, 0.63; 95% CI: 0.38-1.06, P = 0.08; I² = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled analyses suggested that TV repair at the time of MV surgery in patients with moderate or less-than-moderate TR did not impact on perioperative or postoperative all-cause mortality, despite reducing TR severity and TR progression following the intervention.

Concomitant Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Treatment of Secondary Tricuspid and Mitral Regurgitation: An Expert Opinion

Secondary (functional) tricuspid regurgitation (sTR) is common in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR). Because combined valvular heart disease affects long-term survival, in comparison with isolated MR or tricuspid regurgitation, it is essential to offer patients adequate treatment. Despite considerable experience, no conclusive data are yet available on the prognostic impact of concomitant tricuspid valve surgery at the time of mitral valve surgery. Emerging transcatheter treatments offer the opportunity to treat both conditions (MR and sTR) simultaneously or in a stepwise fashion. This review provides a clinical overview on available data regarding the rationale for treatment of sTR in patients with relevant MR undergoing mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, focusing on clinical and anatomical selection criteria.

Mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is the most prevalent valvular heart disease and, when left untreated, results in reduced quality of life, heart failure, and increased mortality. Mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER) has matured considerably as a non-surgical treatment option since its commercial introduction in Europe in 2008. As a result of major device and interventional improvements, as well as the accumulation of experience by the interventional cardiologists, M-TEER has emerged as an important therapeutic strategy for patients with severe and symptomatic MR in the current European and American guidelines. Herein, we provide a comprehensive up-do-date overview of M-TEER. We define preprocedural patient evaluation and highlight key aspects for decision-making. We describe the currently available M-TEER systems and summarise the evidence for M-TEER in both primary mitral regurgitation (PMR) and secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR). In addition, we provide recommendations for device selection, intraprocedural imaging and guiding, M-TEER optimisation and management of recurrent MR. Finally, we provide information on major unsolved questions and "grey areas" in M-TEER.

Evolution of tricuspid regurgitation after transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair for secondary mitral regurgitation and its impact on mortality

AIM

To evaluate short-term changes in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (M-TEER) in secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR), their predictors and impact on mortality.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This is a retrospective analysis of SMR patients undergoing successful M-TEER (post-procedural mitral regurgitation ≤2+) at 13 European centres. Among 503 patients evaluated 79 (interquartile range [IQR] 40-152) days after M-TEER, 173 (35%) showed ≥1 degree of TR improvement, 97 (19%) had worsening of TR, and 233 (46%) remained unchanged. Smaller baseline left atrial diameter and residual mitral regurgitation 0/1+ were independent predictors of TR ≤2+ after M-TEER. There was a significant association between TR changes and New York Heart Association class and pulmonary artery systolic pressure decrease at echocardiographic re-assessment. At a median follow-up of 590 (IQR 209-1103) days from short-term echocardiographic re-assessment, all-cause mortality was lower in patients with improved compared to those with unchanged/worsened TR (29.6% vs. 42.3% at 3 years; log-rank p = 0.034). Baseline TR severity was not associated with mortality, whereas TR 0/1+ and 2+ at short-term follow-up was associated with lower all-cause mortality compared to TR 3/4+ (30.6% and 35.6% vs. 55.6% at 3 years; p < 0.001). A TR ≤2+ after M-TEER was independently associated with a 42% decreased risk of mortality (p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

More than one third of patients with SMR undergoing successful M-TEER experienced an improvement in TR. Pre-procedural TR was not associated with outcome, but a TR ≤2+ at short-term follow-up was independently associated with long-term mortality. Optimal M-TEER result and a small left atrium were associated with a higher likelihood of TR ≤2+ after M-TEER.

Indications, Limitations, and Development of Tricuspid Valve Interventions in Adults

Tricuspid regurgitation is associated with excessive mortality and poor outcomes regardless of the cause and associated comorbidities. Despite this clear association with mortality, tricuspid valve diseases remain undertreated. Tricuspid valve surgery, either repair or replacement, has shown little detectable survival benefit. Transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions have emerged as a less invasive approach to tricuspid valve diseases. They can be categorised into coaptation devices, annuloplasty devices, transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement, heterotopic caval valve implantation, and tricuspid valve-in-valve. Despite the late referral and the patient's profile, results remain fairly acceptable at least in the short term, with good procedural device success, excellent safety profile, and sustained reduction of tricuspid regurgitation for up to 1 year. Because results are limited to the mid-term, transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention durability will need to be established before broader adoption of these technologies.

Edge-to-Edge Repair for Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation. Preliminary Echo-Data and Clinical Implications from the Tricuspid Regurgitation IMAging (TRIMA) Study

Background: The natural history of tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) is characterized by poor prognosis and high in-hospital mortality when treated with isolated surgery. We report the preliminary echocardiographic and procedural results of a prospective cohort of symptomatic patients with high to prohibitive surgical risk and at least severe TR who underwent transcatheter edge-to-edge repair through the TriClipTM system. Methods: From June 2020 to March 2022, 27 consecutive patients were screened, and 13 underwent transcatheter TriClipTM repair. In-hospital, 30-day and six-month clinical and echocardiographic outcomes were collected. Results: Nine patients had severe, three massive and one baseline torrential TR. Sustained TR reduction of ≥1 grade was achieved in all patients, of which 90% reached a moderate TR or less. On transthoracic echocardiographic examination, there were significant reductions in vena contracta width (p < 0.001), effective regurgitant orifice area (p < 0.001) and regurgitant volume (p < 0.001) between baseline and hospital discharge. We also observed a significant reduction in tricuspid annulus diameter (p < 0.001), right ventricular basal diameter (p = 0.001) and right atrial area (p = 0.026). Conclusion: Treatment with the edge-to-edge TriClip device is safe and effective. The resulting echocardiographic improvements indicate tricuspid valve leaflet approximation does not just significantly reduce the grade of TR but also affects adjacent structures and improves right ventricular afterload adaptation.

Transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions: Current status and future perspectives

The development of transcatheter therapies to treat valvular heart diseases has changed the rules of the game, particularly in the case of aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation. In the last years, the tricuspid valve has also been the focus of these percutaneous techniques for several reasons: (1) tricuspid regurgitation is a frequent disease associated with poor clinical outcomes in spite of medical treatment, leading to end-stage right ventricular heart failure, (2) surgical tricuspid valve repair or replacement has been the treatment of choice for patients with tricuspid valve disease, but high mortality rates for isolated surgical tricuspid valve intervention have been reported in the literature, and (3) most patients with tricuspid pathology are ultimately denied cardiac surgery because of their comorbidity burden. Thus, in this context the development of less invasive catheter-based therapies would be of high clinical relevance. The present review provides an overview regarding the framework of chronic tricuspid regurgitation transcatheter therapeutic options, summarizes the transcatheter systems under clinical use or clinical evaluation with their technical features, and describes the updated current evidence in this challenging and evolving field.

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

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

Impact of Tricuspid Regurgitation on Outcomes of Mitral Valve Surgery after Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity after mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) has been shown to impact outcomes but unknown in patients requiring mitral valve (MV) surgery after TEER. We sought to determine the impact of preoperative TR severity and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction on MV surgery after TEER. From 7/2009 to 7/2020, 260/332 patients in the CUTTING-EDGE registry who underwent MV surgery after TEER had paired echocardiographic evaluation on TR severity, and ≥moderate (2+) vs <2+ TR at the time of index TEER were compared. Median follow-up post-MV surgery was 9.1 months, 96.5% complete at 30 days and 81.9% complete at 1 year. Mean age was 73.8 ± 10.3; with primary/mixed and secondary MR present in 65.6% and 32.0%, respectively. Proportion of ≥2+ TR increased from TEER to MV surgery (40% vs 57%, P < 0.001). Compared to <2+ TR group, ≥2+ pre-TEER TR patients were older, had higher STS risk score at TEER, higher RVSP, more RV dysfunction, more MR post-TEER, and a shorter median interval from TEER to MV surgery (1.9 vs 4.9 months, P = 0.023). Mortality was higher in the ≥2+ pre-TEER TR group at 30 days(24.2% vs 13.8%, P = 0.043) and 1 year (45.3% vs 22.3%, P = 0.003). On Kaplan-Meier analysis, cumulative mortality was 23.8% at 1 year and 31.6% at 3 years after MV surgery overall, and was associated with preoperative RV dysfunction (P = 0.023), ≥2+ TR at pre-TEER (P = 0.001) and presurgery (P = 0.004), but not concomitant tricuspid surgery. Moderate or greater pre-TEER TR was associated with worse outcomes, and pre-TEER TR worsened significantly at MV surgery. Concomitant tricuspid surgery did not increase overall mortality.

Early and mid-term outcomes of transcatheter tricuspid valve repair: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with poor prognosis when left untreated, and a growing number of studies on transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVr) have been published over the last few months.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive systematic review of published literature providing clinical data on TTVr for patients with significant TR. Early and mid-term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes were evaluated. Risk ratios (RR) or mean differences (MD) were obtained when comparing pre- and postprocedural data. A sensitivity analysis was also performed according to the main approach for repair (edge-to-edge vs annuloplasty).

RESULTS

A total of 19 studies (all observational or single-arm trials) and 991 patients who underwent isolated TTVr were included. Thirty-day mortality and stroke rates were 2.8% and 0.2%, respectively. Pooled random-effects resulted in a significant reduction of ≥ severe TR (RR, 0.33; 95%CI, 0.26-0.42; P < .001), vena contracta width (MD, 5.9mm; 95%CI, 4-7.9; P <.001), right ventricular end-diastolic diameter (MD, 3.5mm; 95%CI, 2.5-4.5; P <.001), and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III or IV at last follow-up (RR, 0.32; 95%CI, 0.27-0.37; P <.001). Bleeding complications and residual ≥ severe TR were numerically higher in the annuloplasty-like group compared with edge-to-edge repair (13.3% vs 3.8% for bleeding and 40.4% vs 27.9% for residual severe TR).

CONCLUSIONS

Among 991 patients comprising the early experience for several TTVr devices, there was a statistically significant reduction in ≥ severe TR, NYHA class III-IV, vena contracta width and right ventricular end-diastolic diameter after TTVr. Thus far, the edge-to-edge approach seems to be associated with a better safety profile.

Prognostic Value of Pulmonary Hypertension, Right Ventricular Function and Tricuspid Regurgitation on Mortality After Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary hypertension (PH), right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are commonly present in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) and known to impair prognosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prognostic value of PH, RV function, and TR on mortality after transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR).

METHODS

A systematic search was performed to identify studies investigating PH, RV function, or TR in patients who underwent TMVR. Studies were included for pooled analysis if hazard ratios (HR) for all-cause mortality were given.

RESULTS

A total of 8,672 patients from 21 selected studies were included (PH, 11 studies; RV function, nine studies; TR, 10 studies). Mean follow-up was 2.7±1.6 years. The HRs and 95% CIs for all-cause mortality of PH (dichotomised: HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.00-2.87; per 10 mmHg increase in systolic PAP: HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07-1.29), RV function (dichotomised: HR 1.86, 95% CI 1.45-2.38; per 5 mm decrease in TAPSE: HR 1.18, 95% CI 0.97-1.43) and TR (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.28-1.79) indicated a significant association.

CONCLUSION

Prognosis after TMVR is worse in patients with significant MR when concomitant PH, RV dysfunction, or TR are present. Careful assessment of these parameters should therefore precede clinical decision-making for TMVR. The current results encourage investigation into whether (1) intervention at an earlier stage of MR reduces incidence of PH, RV dysfunction, and TR; and (2) transcatheter treatment of concomitant TR can improve clinical outcome and prognosis for these patients.

Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease and All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Tricuspid Regurgitation

Aim: The impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on patient-related outcomes in patients with tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is well known. However, the impact of the progression of CKD in patients with TR and potentially modifiable risk factors of progressing CKD is unknown. Methods: 444 consecutive adult patients with TR and CKD stage 1−4 admitted in an inpatient setting between January 2010 and December 2017 were included. During a median follow-up of two years, eGFR and survival status were collected. Independent risk factors for CKD progression and all-cause mortality were determined. Patient survival statuses were grouped according to different combinations of the presence or absence of CKD progression and the TR grade. Results: Progression of CKD (OR 2.38 (95% confidence interval 1.30−4.35), p = 0.005), the grade of TR (OR 2.38 (1.41−4.00), p = 0.001) and mitral regurgitation (OR 1.72 (1.20−2.46), p = 0.003) were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality. Haemoglobin at admission (OR 0.80 (0.65−0.99), p = 0.043) and the presence of type 2 diabetes (OR 1.67 (1.02−2.73), p = 0.042) were independent risk factors for CKD progression. The combination of the status of CKD progression and the TR grade showed a stepwise pattern for all-cause mortality (p < 0.001). Patients with CKD progression and TR grade 1 had comparable all-cause mortality with patients without CKD progression but with TR grade 2 or 3. Even in patients with TR grade 1, the risk for all-cause mortality doubled if CKD progression occurred (OR 2.49 (95% CI 1.38−4.47), p = 0.002). Conclusion: CKD progression appears to be a risk factor for all-cause mortality in patients with TR. Anaemia and diabetes are potential modifiers of CKD progression.

The relevance of tricuspid regurgitation in patients undergoing percutaneous treatment of mitral regurgitation

OBJECTIVES

 Investigate the impact of concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) on clinical outcomes during long-term follow-up in patients undergoing percutaneous treatment of mitral regurgitation (MR) with the MitraClip system.

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing mitral repair using the MitraClip frequently present with concomitant TR. It is uncertain how the presence of TR impacts the long-term outcomes of such patients.

METHODS

We analyzed consecutive patients with MitraClip implantation from the prospective MitraSwiss registry. Endpoints were all-cause mortality, hospitalization for heart failure, and the composite endpoint of the two.

RESULTS

We enrolled 177 patients (mean age 76 ± 9 years, 37% female). Acute procedural success was achieved in 149 (84%). Concomitant moderate or severe TR was present in 31% at baseline and 32% before discharge. After a median follow-up of 1103 days (IQR: 555-1766 days), 70 (40%) of patients had died, and 34 (19%) were hospitalized for heart failure. In multivariable analysis, TR at baseline was associated with an increase in all-cause mortality (HR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.36-4.03, p < 0.01), hospitalization for heart failure (HR: 3.19, 95% CI: 1.37-7.41, p = 0.01), and the composite endpoint (HR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.19-3.36, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Despite treatment of MR, TR did not improve in most patients. The presence of relevant TR at baseline was associated with reduced survival and higher rates of hospitalization for heart failure. More research is needed to understand the causal role of TR in such patients and to investigate if simultaneous treatment of concomitant TR may improve prognosis in patients undergoing percutaneous treatment of MR.

Prognostic significance of right ventricle to pulmonary artery coupling in patients with mitral regurgitation treated with the MitraClip system

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prognostic impact of baseline tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/pulmonary artery systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASP) ratio, as an expression of the right ventricle-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) coupling, in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) treated with the MitraClip.

BACKGROUND

Impaired RV to PA coupling is considered a marker of RV dysfunction.

METHODS

From February 2016 to February 2020, a total of 165 patients were evaluated and stratified in two groups according to a prespecified value of TAPSE/PASP ratio ≤ 0.36.

RESULTS

The median patients' age was 79 (men: 62.4%). Sixty-three patients (38.1%) presented TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.36 and were then compared with patients with TAPSE/PASP > 0.36. Functional MR etiology was more frequent in TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.36 (71.4%; p = 0.046). Acute technical success was achieved in 92.7% of the population, without any significant difference between the two groups of study and with sustained results at 30-day (device success: 85.5%; procedural success: 84.8%). On multivariate Cox regression analysis, after correction for body mass index, chronic kidney disease and left ventricle ejection fraction ≥30% but <50%, TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.36 remained a sustained predictor of mortality and hospitalization for heart failure at one year after MitraClip (hazard ratio: 3.87; 95% confidence interval: 1.83-8.22; p ≤ 0.001). Kaplan-Meier all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization rates at one year were consequently higher in patients with TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.36 (39.4% vs. 14.8%; log-rank p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Baseline TAPSE/PASP ratio seems independently associated with all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization after MitraClip both in functional and degenerative MR.

Challenges and future perspectives of transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions: adopt old strategies or adapt to new opportunities?

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a highly prevalent valvular heart disease and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death at long-term follow-up. Functional TR accounts for over 90% of TR and is mainly due to annular or right ventricular dilatation. Most often, TR is observed in patients with left-sided valvular heart disease (with or without previous surgical correction) and pulmonary hypertension. Isolated TR is less frequent, though burdened by high surgical mortality. This, together with an incomplete understanding of the disease, has brought to a significant undertreatment in spite of the growing evidence of the impact of severe TR on mortality. Moreover, uncertainties about the appropriate timing for intervention and the predictors of procedural success have contributed to limit TR treatment. Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement or repair interventions represent novel and less invasive alternatives to surgery and have shown early promising results. The purpose of this review is to provide a complete and updated overview of TR pathology with a special focus on current percutaneous treatment options, future challenges and directions.

Predictors and prognostic relevance of tricuspid alterations in patients undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair

BACKGROUND

Mitral valve repair may lead to alterations of tricuspid regurgitation (TR).

AIMS

We aimed to investigate alterations, predictors and prognostic relevance of TR evolution in a large-scale multicentre population of patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) via the MitraClip.

METHODS

In total, we included 531 TMVR patients with at least one available follow-up echocardiography. TR improvement was defined as a TR ≥II at baseline, which showed a decline of at least one TR categorisation.

RESULTS

Distribution of preprocedural TR severity was TR 0/I 41% (220/531), TR II 39% (209/531) and TR ≥III 19% (102/531), respectively. Follow-up echocardiography was at 308±187 days. TR severity improved to TR 0/I 49% (259/531), TR II 35% (183/531) and TR III 17% (89/531), p=0.003. Out of 311 patients with TR ≥II at baseline, 41% (127/311) showed TR improvement. Atrial fibrillation (AF), residual mitral regurgitation ≥II (rMR) and tricuspid annular diameter (TAD) remained variables which prevented TR improvement (odds ratio 0.49 [0.29-0.84], 0.47 [0.27-0.81] and 0.97 [0.93-0.997], respectively). TR improvement was associated with better event-free survival regarding post-procedural heart failure hospitalisation (HHF) (hazard ratio 0.6 [0.38-0.94]). The main changes of TR severity occurred within 3 months post TMVR (p=0.006), while there were only minor TR changes between 3 and 12 months of follow-up (p=0.813).

CONCLUSIONS

TR improvement was frequent after TMVR. Predictors preventing TR improvement were AF, post-procedural rMR, and TAD. Furthermore, TR improvement was an early phenomenon occurring primarily within the first three months post TMVR and served as a suitable marker of reduced HHF.

A Practical Approach to Combined Transcatheter Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Intervention

Concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is common in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR). While current guidelines recommend repair of both valves at the time of surgery when feasible, high risk patients are often undertreated, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. With advances in transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) devices and technique, combined TEER for treating significant MR and TR has emerged as a new tool for heart failure management. Recent evidence has shed light on which patients with severe TR should be targeted for transcatheter intervention either in isolation or in combination with a MV TEER procedure and allows for expanded treatment options in patients who otherwise would be limited to medical management. Technological advancements remain ahead of robust clinical data, and thus randomized clinical studies in patients with severe MR and TR will be instrumental in determining the best approach in treating these patients with transcatheter therapies.

Beyond the Wires: A Case of Leadless Pacemaker-Mediated Tricuspid Regurgitation

•PPM/ICD-related TR has relevant clinical and prognostic impact. •LPs are an alternative to avoid lead-mediated complications. •Unexpectedly, LP can still cause significant degrees of TR. •TR after LP implantation likely results from subvalvular apparatus interaction. •Little is known about risk factors and management strategies for LP-induced TR.

Right ventricular dysfunction and tricuspid regurgitation in functional mitral regurgitation

AIM

The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic importance of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) in patients with moderate-severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) receiving MitraClip procedure. RVD and TR grade are associated with cardiovascular mortality in the general population and other cardiovascular diseases. However, there are limited data from observational studies on the prognostic significance of RVD and TR in FMR receiving MitraClip procedure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A systemic review and meta-analysis were performed using MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase to assess the prognostic value of RVD and TR grade for mortality in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) receiving MitraClip procedure. Hazard ratios were extracted from multivariate models reporting on the association of RVD and TR with mortality and described as pooled estimates with 95% confidence intervals. A total of eight non-randomized studies met the inclusion criteria with seven studies having at least 12 months follow-up with a mean follow-up of 20.9 months. Among the aforementioned studies, a total of 1112 patients (71.5% being male) were eligible for being included in our meta-analysis with an overall mortality rate of 28.4% (n = 316). Of the enrolled patients, RVD was present in 46.1% and moderate-severe TR in 29.2%. RVD was significantly associated with mortality compared to normal RV function (HR, 1.79, 95% CI, 1.39-2.31, P < 0.001, I²  = 0). Patients with moderate-severe TR showed increased risk of mortality compared with those in the none-mild TR group (HR, 1.61. 95% CI, 1.11-2.33, P = 0.01, I²  = 14).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis demonstrates the prognostic importance of RVD and TR grade in predicting all-cause mortality in patients with significant FMR. RV function and TR parameters may therefore be useful in the risk stratification of patients with significant FMR undergoing MitraClip procedure.

Percutaneous Edge-to-Edge Mitral Valve Repair: Beyond the Left Heart

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are known to be associated with adverse outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR). Although the effect of PMVR on left ventricular function is well known, data on the response of the right ventricle to PMVR, and its impact on prognosis, are limited. In this review the authors summarize available data regarding the prognostic role of RV function and TR in PMVR recipients and the possible effects of PMVR on the right heart. Preprocedural tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion < 15 mm, tricuspid annular tissue Doppler S' velocity < 9.5 cm/sec, and moderate or severe TR are reported as predictors of adverse outcome after PMVR. Therefore, they should be carefully evaluated for patient selection. Moreover, emerging data show that the benefit of PMVR may go beyond the left heart, leading to an improvement in RV function and a reduction in TR severity. Among PMVR recipients, improvement in RV function and reduction of TR degree are observed mainly in patients with RV dysfunction at baseline. On the other hand, high postprocedural transmitral pressure gradients seem to be associated with lack of RV reverse remodeling. Timing of mitral intervention with respect to RV impairment and predictors of RV reverse remodeling after PMVR are unknown. Further studies are needed to fill these gaps in evidence.

Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation in Patients With Chronic Mitral Regurgitation: An Evidence-Based Narrative Review

Chronic mitral regurgitation leads to a series of downstream pathologic changes, including pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular dilation, tricuspid leaflet tethering, and tricuspid annular dilation, which can result in functional tricuspid regurgitation (FTR). The five-year survival rate for patients with severe FTR is reported to be as low as 34%. While FTR was often left uncorrected during left-heart valvular surgery, under the assumption that correction of the left-sided lesion would reverse the right-heart changes that cause FTR, recent data largely have supported concomitant tricuspid valve repair at the time of mitral surgery. In this review, the authors discuss the potentially irreversible nature of the changes leading to FTR, the likelihood of progression of FTR after mitral surgery, and the evidence for and against concomitant tricuspid valve repair at the time of mitral valve intervention. Lastly, this narrative review also examines advances in transcatheter therapies for the tricuspid valve and the evidence behind concomitant transcatheter tricuspid repair at the time of transcatheter mitral repair.

2-Year Outcomes for Transcatheter Repair in Patients With Mitral Regurgitation From the CLASP Study

OBJECTIVES

This study reports 2-year outcomes from the multicenter, prospective, single-arm CLASP study with functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) and degenerative MR (DMR) analysis.

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter repair is a favorable option to treat MR. Long-term prognostic impact of the PASCAL transcatheter valve repair system in patients with clinically significant MR remains to be established.

METHODS

Patients had clinically significant MR ≥3+ as evaluated by the echocardiographic core laboratory and were deemed candidates for transcatheter repair by the heart team. Assessments were performed by clinical events committee to 1 year (site-reported thereafter) and core laboratory to 2 years.

RESULTS

A total of 124 patients (69% FMR, 31% DMR) were enrolled with a mean age of 75 years, 56% were male, 60% were New York Heart Association functional class III to IVa, and 100% had MR ≥3+. At 2 years, Kaplan-Meier estimates showed 80% survival (72% FMR, 94% DMR) and 84% freedom from heart failure (HF) hospitalization (78% FMR, 97% DMR), with 85% reduction in annualized HF hospitalization rate (81% FMR, 98% DMR). MR ≤1+ was achieved in 78% of patients (84% FMR, 71% DMR) and MR ≤2+ was achieved in 97% (95% FMR, 100% DMR) (all p < 0.001). Left ventricular end-diastolic volume decreased by 33 ml (p < 0.001); 93% of patients were in New York Heart Association functional class I to II (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The PASCAL repair system demonstrated sustained favorable outcomes at 2 years in FMR and DMR patients. Results showed high survival and freedom from HF rehospitalization rates with a significantly reduced annualized HF hospitalization rate. Durable MR reduction was achieved with evidence of left ventricular reverse remodeling and significant improvement in functional status. The CLASP IID/IIF randomized pivotal trial is ongoing.

Tricuspid valve in congenital heart disease: multimodality imaging and electrophysiological considerations

The tricuspid valve (TV) has been neglected for many years. Only recently, new studies demonstrated the prognostic role of the tricuspid valve lesions. In addition to that, new interventional approaches offer the possibility to non-invasively treat tricuspid valve disease. In this review, our aim is to summarize the role of different imaging techniques in the assessment of tricuspid valve with particular regards to congenital heart diseases. Finally, we analyze the importance of the TV and its adjacent regions from an electrophysiological point of view, both in structurally normal hearts and in congenital heart diseases. The most relevant transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) views to visualize the TV are the "modified" parasternal long axis, the apical views and subcostal projections, such as right oblique or left oblique views. However, simultaneous visualization of the three leaflets is possible only with three-dimensional TTE, or, sometimes, in parasternal short axis and subcostal short axis views in children. 3D echocardiography (3DE) is promising in this field. Indeed, its unique projections, such as en face views from the right ventricular and atrial perspectives, are able to define the spatial relationship of the tricuspid leaflets with the surrounding structures. Moreover, multimodality imaging assessment has been recently proposed for the diagnostic assessment of the TV, especially before percutaneous intervention. Cardiac Computed Tomography (CCT) provides valuable anatomic spatial information of the TV apparatus. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) is able to provide, non-invasively, detailed morphological and functional information of the valve.

Impact of Right Ventricular Dysfunction on Outcomes After Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Secondary Mitral Regurgitation

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to assess the impact of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) as defined by impaired right ventricular-to-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) coupling, on survival after edge-to-edge transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) for severe secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR).

BACKGROUND

Conflicting data exist regarding the benefit of TMVR in severe SMR. A possible explanation could be differences in RVD.

METHODS

Using data from the EuroSMR (European Registry on Outcomes in Secondary Mitral Regurgitation) registry, this study compared the characteristics and outcomes of SMR patients undergoing TMVR, according to their RV-PA coupling, assessed by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion-to-systolic pulmonary artery pressure (TAPSE/sPAP) ratio.

RESULTS

Overall, 817 patients with severe SMR and available RV-PA coupling assessment underwent TMVR in the participating centers. RVD was present in 211 patients (25.8% with a TAPSE/sPAP ratio <0.274 mm/mm Hg). Although all patients demonstrated significant improvement in their New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, there was a trend toward a lower rate of NYHA functional class I or II among patients with RVD (56.5% vs. 65.5%, respectively; p = 0.086) after TMVR. Survival rates at 1 and 2 years were lower among patients with RVD (70.2% vs. 84.0%, respectively; p < 0.001; and 53.4% vs. 73.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, a reduced TAPSE/sPAP ratio was a strong predictor of mortality (odds ratio: 1.62; 95% confidence interval: 1.14 to 2.31; p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

RVD, as shown by impairment of RV-PA coupling, is a major predictor of adverse outcome in patients undergoing TMVR for severe SMR. The often neglected functional and anatomic RV parameters should be systematically assessed when planning TMVR procedures for patients with severe SMR.

Percutaneous Mitral Valve Intervention Using MitraClip for Functional Mitral Regurgitation and Heart Failure

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) frequently coexists with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and advanced heart failure, and typically has poor clinical outcomes. Although various therapeutic options including cardiac resynchronization therapy and surgical mitral intervention, have been proposed, an optimal treatment strategy for functional mitral regurgitation has not yet been established. Over the last decade, transcatheter mitral valve repair using MitraClip has emerged as a novel alternative therapeutic option for functional mitral regurgitation. In 2018, the COAPT trial demonstrated that MitraClip treatment reduced rehospitalization due to heart failure and all-cause death in patients with functional mitral regurgitation and heart failure. As a consequence, the MitraClip has become a very promising potential treatment for functional mitral regurgitation. In this review, we discuss and summarize the current status and future perspectives of the treatment for functional mitral regurgitation and heart failure.

Right ventricular dysfunction assessed by cardiovascular magnetic resonance is associated with poor outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair

Aims

To evaluate whether CMR-derived RV assessment can facilitate risk stratification among patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR).

Background

In patients undergoing TMVR, only limited data exist regarding the role of RV function. Previous studies assessed the impact of pre-procedural RV dysfunction stating that RV failure may be associated with increased cardiovascular mortality after the procedure.

Methods

Sixty-one patients underwent CMR, echocardiography and right heart catheterization prior TMVR. All-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalizations were assessed during 2-year follow-up.

Results

According to RV ejection fraction (RVEF) <46%, 23 patients (38%) had pre-existing RV dysfunction. By measures of RV end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVi), 16 patients (26%) revealed RV dilatation. Nine patients (15%) revealed both. RV dysfunction was associated with increased right and left ventricular volumes as well as reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (all p<0.05). During follow-up, 15 patients (25%) died and additional 14 patients (23%) were admitted to hospital due to heart failure symptoms. RV dysfunction predicted all-cause mortality even after adjustment for LV function. Similarly, RVEDVi was a predictor of all-cause mortality even after adjustment for LVEDVi. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis unraveled that, among patients presenting with CMR indicative of both, RV dysfunction and dilatation, the majority (78%) experienced an adverse event during follow-up (p<0.001).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing TMVR, pre-existing RV dysfunction and RV dilatation are associated with reduced survival, in progressive additive fashion. The assessment of RV volumes and function by CMR may aid in risk stratification prior TMVR in these high-risk patients.

Impact of Tricuspid Regurgitation on Clinical Outcomes: The COAPT Trial

BACKGROUND

The presence of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) may affect prognosis in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR).

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to determine the impact of TR on outcomes in patients with heart failure and severe secondary MR randomized to guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) or edge-to-edge repair with the MitraClip in the COAPT (Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients With Functional Mitral Regurgitation) trial.

METHODS

A total of 614 patients with symptomatic heart failure with moderate to severe (3+) or severe (4+) secondary MR were randomized to maximally tolerated GDMT plus MitraClip or GDMT alone; 599 had core laboratory evaluable echocardiograms. Patients were divided into 2 groups by baseline TR severity: none/trace/mild TR (≤Mild TR) (n = 501 [83.6%]) and moderate/severe TR (≥Mod TR) (n = 98 [16.4%]). Two-year composite endpoints of death or heart failure hospitalization (HFH) and the individual endpoints were analyzed.

RESULTS

Patients with ≥Mod TR were more likely to be New York Heart Association functional class III/IV (p < 0.0001) and have a Society of Thoracic Surgeons score of ≥8 (p < 0.0001), anemia (p = 0.02), chronic kidney disease (p = 0.003), and higher N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (p = 0.02) than those with ≤Mild TR. Patients with ≥Mod TR had more severe MR (p = 0.0005) despite smaller left ventricular volumes (p = 0.005) and higher right ventricular systolic pressure (p < 0.0001). At 2 years, the composite rate of death or HFH was higher in patients with ≥Mod TR compared with ≤Mild TR treated with GDMT alone (83.0% vs. 64.3%; hazard ratio: 1.74; 95% confidence interval: 1.24 to 2.45; p = 0.001) but not following MitraClip (48.2% vs. 44.0%; hazard ratio: 1.14; 95% confidence interval: 0.71 to 1.84; p = 0.59). Rates of death or HFH, as well as death and HFH alone, were reduced by MitraClip compared with GDMT, irrespective of baseline TR grade (p_interaction = 0.16, 0.29, and 0.21 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with severe secondary MR who also had ≥Mod TR had worse clinical and echocardiographic characteristics and worse clinical outcomes compared to those with ≤Mild TR. Within the COAPT trial, MitraClip improved outcomes in patients with and without ≥Mod TR severity compared with GDMT alone. (Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients With Functional Mitral Regurgitation [COAPT]; NCT01626079).

Current Indications for Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement Using Transcatheter Aortic Valves

Use of transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) using transcatheter aortic valves in clinical practice is limited to patients with failing bioprostheses and rings or mitral valve disease associated with severe mitral annulus calcification. Whereas the use of valve-in-valve TMVR appears to be a reasonable alternative to surgery in patients at high surgical risk, much less evidence supports valve-in-ring and valve-in-mitral annulus calcification interventions. Data on the results of TMVR in these settings are derived from small case series or voluntary registries. This review summarizes the current evidence on TMVR using transcatheter aortic valves in clinical practice from the characteristics of the TMVR candidates, screening process, performance of the procedure, and description of current results and future perspectives. TMVR using dedicated devices in native noncalcified mitral valve diseases is beyond the scope of the article.

Concomitant tricuspid regurgitation severity and its secondary reduction determine long-term prognosis after transcatheter mitral valve edge-to-edge repair

Background

Concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common finding in mitral regurgitation (MR). Transcatheter repair (TMVR) is a favorable treatment option in patients at elevated surgical risk. To date, evidence on long-term prognosis and the prognostic impact of TR after TMVR is limited.

Methods

Long-term survival data of patients undergoing isolated edge-to-edge repair from June 2010 to March 2018 (combinations with other forms of TMVR or tricuspid valve therapy excluded) were analyzed in a retrospective monocentric study. TR severity was categorized and the impact of TR on survival was analysed.

Results

Overall, 606 patients [46.5% female, 56.4% functional MR (FMR)] were enrolled in this study. TR at baseline was categorized severe/medium/mild/no or trace in 23.2/34.3/36.3/6.3% of the cases. At 30-day follow-up, improvement of at least one TR-grade was documented in 34.9%. Severe TR at baseline was identified as predictor of 1-year survival [65.2% vs. 77.0%, p = 0.030; HR for death 1.68 (95% CI 1.12–2.54), p = 0.013] and in FMR-patients also regarding long-term prognosis [adjusted HR for long-term mortality 1.57 (95% CI 1.00–2.45), p = 0.049]. Missing post-interventional reduction of TR severity was predictive for poor prognosis, especially in the FMR-subgroup [1-year survival: 92.9% vs. 78.3%, p = 0.025; HR for death at 1-year follow-up 3.31 (95% CI 1.15–9.58), p = 0.027]. While BNP levels decreased in both subgroups, TR reduction was associated with improved symptomatic benefit (NYHA-class-reduction 78.6 vs. 65.9%, p = 0.021).

Conclusion

In this large study, both, severe TR at baseline as well as missing secondary reduction were predictive for impaired long-term prognosis, especially in patients with FMR etiology. TR reduction was associated with increased symptomatic benefit.

Graphic abstract

COAPT-Like Profile Predicts Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Secondary Mitral Regurgitation Undergoing MitraClip Implantation

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether fulfilling COAPT (Cardiovascular Outcomes Assessment of the MitraClip Percutaneous Therapy for Heart Failure Patients With Functional Mitral Regurgitation) criteria identifies patients with better outcomes after MitraClip treatment for secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR).

BACKGROUND

To date, COAPT is the only trial showing a prognostic benefit of MitraClip implantation compared with conservative management.

METHODS

Three hundred four patients with SMR undergoing MitraClip placement in addition to optimal medical therapy at 3 European centers were analyzed. A COAPT-like profile was defined as absence of all the following criteria: severe left ventricular impairment, moderate to severe right ventricular dysfunction, severe tricuspid regurgitation, severe pulmonary hypertension, and hemodynamic instability. Freedom from all-cause death and from a composite endpoint (cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization) were evaluated at 2- and 5-year follow-up.

RESULTS

A COAPT-like profile was observed in 65% of the population. Compared with non-COAPT-like patients, those fulfilling COAPT criteria had greater survival free from all-cause death and from the composite endpoint at both 2 year (75% vs. 55% and 67% vs. 47%; p < 0.001 for both) and 5-year (49% vs. 25% and 40% vs. 19%; p < 0.001 for both) follow-up. Among the non-COAPT-like patients, similar outcomes were observed in those fulfilling 1 or ≥1 criterion. Left ventricular impairment had a late impact on outcomes, while right ventricular impairment, pulmonary hypertension, and hemodynamic instability had early effects. COAPT-like profile was an independent predictor of long-term outcomes, as well as administration of neurohormonal antagonists, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score, and previous heart failure hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

A COAPT-like profile, including specific echocardiographic and clinical criteria, identifies patients with SMR who have a better prognosis after MitraClip implantation.

Prognostic Impact of Heart Failure History in Patients with Secondary Mitral Regurgitation Treated by MitraClip

The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic role of heart failure (HF) history in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) underwent MitraClip. We retrospectively analyzed 186 patients with SMR undergoing MitraClip at 4 centres. HF history was defined as number or days of HF hospitalizations in the 12-month before MitraClip, or as time from last HF hospitalization to MitraClip, or time between first SMR diagnosis and MitraClip. More severe symptoms were observed in patients with >1 HF hospitalization compared with those with ≤1 HF hospitalizations, in those with ≥10 days versus <10 days of HF hospitalization and in those with shortest time from the last HF hospitalization. No significant differences were observed for procedural data in the population stratified according to the different definitions. In variables related with HF history, only the number of HF hospitalizations before MitraClip was associated with an increased risk of clinical events (hazard ratio 1.59; 95% confidence interval [1.09 to 2.12]; p = 0.015), whereas days of previous HF hospitalization, time from last HF hospitalization and from first diagnosis of SMR do not impact on prognosis. A significant decrease in the number and days of HF hospitalizations was observed in the 12-month after MitraClip compared with the 12-month before. In conclusion, in variables related with HF history, recurrence (>1) of HF hospitalizations before MitraClip was the most powerful predictor of prognosis. Latency of intervention did not affect outcomes.

Natural history of bivalvular functional regurgitation

AIMS

Bivalvular functional regurgitation (BVFR) defined as concomitant mitral and tricuspid insufficiency has not been described or systematically assessed before. Therefore, this study sought to define incidence, impact and natural history of BVFR in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) to provide the foundation for risk assessment and directions for potential treatment strategies.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 1021 consecutive patients with HFrEF under guideline-directed medical therapy and performed comprehensive echocardiographic and neurohumoral profiling. All-cause mortality during a 5 years of follow-up served as the primary endpoint. Thirty percent of patients suffered from moderate or severe BVFR. Long-term mortality increased with the presence and severity of functional regurgitation (FR) with severe BVFR representing the highest risk-subset (P < 0.001). Severe BVFR patients were more symptomatic and displayed an adverse remodelling and neurohumoral activation pattern (all P < 0.05). Severe BVFR was associated with excess mortality independently of clinical [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39-1.84; P < 0.001] and echocardiographic (adjusted HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.11-1.54; P = 0.001) confounders, guideline-directed medical therapy (adjusted HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.35-1.79; P < 0.001) and neurohumoral activation (adjusted HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07-1.59; P = 0.009). Moderate BVFR (n = 99) comprised equal baseline characteristics and similar risk as isolated severe FR (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.69-1.30; P = 0.73).

CONCLUSION

This long-term outcome study shows the multi-faceted nature of FR and defines BVFR as an important clinical entity associated with impaired functional class, adverse cardiac remodelling, and excess risk of mortality. Moderate BVFR conveys similar risk as isolated severe FR reflecting the deleterious impact of the global regurgitant load on the failing heart and the need of an integrated understanding for risk-assessment.