Comparison of Intracardiac Echocardiography Versus Transesophageal Echocardiography for Guidance During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) for guidance during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is limited. This study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of ICE versus transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for guiding TAVR.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included patients who underwent TAVR from August 18, 2015, to June 31, 2021. Eligible patients were stratified by echocardiographic modality (ICE or TEE) and anesthesia mode (monitored anesthesia care [MAC] or general anesthesia [GA]). Primary outcome was the 1-year composite of all-cause mortality, rehospitalization for cardiovascular cause, or stroke, according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) definition. Propensity score matching was performed, and study outcomes were analyzed for the matched cohorts.

RESULTS

Of the 359 eligible patients, 120 patients were matched for the ICE-MAC and TEE-GA groups, respectively. The incidence of primary outcome was similar between matched groups (18.3% vs. 20.0%; adjusted hazard ratio, 0.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53-1.68; p=0.843). ICE-MAC and TEE-GA also had similar incidences of moderate-to-severe paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) (4.2% vs. 5.0%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.23-2.82; p=0.758), new permanent pacemaker implantation, and VARC-3 types 2-4 bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

ICE was comparable to TEE for guidance during TAVR for the composite clinical efficacy outcome, with similar incidences of moderate-to-severe PVR, new permanent pacemaker implantation, and major bleeding. These results suggest that ICE could be a safe and effective alternative echocardiographic modality to TEE for guiding TAVR.

Impact of bioprosthetic valve type on peri-procedural myocardial injury and mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Peri-procedural myocardial injury (PPMI) is a common complication after transcatheter valve replacement (TAVR), often remaining clinically silent. The role of valve type on PPMI and the association between PPMI and mortality are still unclear. We sought to evaluate predictors and outcome of PPMI after TAVR, and the impact of self-expandable valve (SEV) vs. balloon-expandable valve (BEV) deployment on PPMI. Consecutive patients who underwent successful TAVR in a single-center from January 2014 to December 2019 were included. PPMI was defined according to a modified Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-2 definition as a post-procedure elevation of troponin (with a peak value ≥ 15-times the upper-reference limit) < 72 h after TAVR. We included 596 patients, of whom 258 (43.3%) were men. Mean age was 83.4 ± 5.5 years. We deployed 368 (61.7%) BEV and 228 (38.3%) SEV. PPMI was observed in 471 (79.0%) patients. At multivariable analysis, SEV (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.64-4.55, p < 0.001), creatinine clearance (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-1.00, p = 0.011), and baseline ejection fraction (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.07, p < 0.001) were independent predictors of PPMI; these findings were also confirmed using a propensity-weighted analysis. Thirty-day and 1-year all-cause mortality rates were 2.5% and 8.1%, respectively. No associations between PPMI and 30-day (p = 0.488) or 1-year (p = 0.139) all-cause mortality were found. Independent predictors of 30-day mortality were increasing EUROSCORE II (HR 1.16 per score point, 95% CI 1.08-1.19, p < 0.001) and life-threatening/major bleeding complications (HR 5.87, 95% CI 1.28-26.58, p = 0.019), whereas EUROSCORE II (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.13, p = 0.031) and acute kidney injury (HR 2.59, 95% CI 1.20-5.35, p = 0.020) were related to 1-year mortality. PPMI is frequent after TAVR, but it does not affect 30-day or 1-year all-cause mortality. SEV implantation is associated with an increased frequency of PPMI.

Early infections after successful transcatheter aortic valve replacement are associated with increased short- and long-term mortality: A single-center study

BACKGROUND

We reviewed frequency, microbiological pattern, predictors, and outcomes of early infections following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

Five hundred thirty-nine patients who underwent successful TAVR at a single, high-volume center between January 2014 and December 2019 were enrolled. We defined early infections as occurring within 30-day from TAVR.

RESULTS

Mean age was 83.5 ± 5.4 years; 230 (42.7%) patients were men. Median follow-up was 12.0 (5.7-18.3) months; 30-day and 1-year death rates were 8/539 (1.5%) and 30/539 (5.6%), respectively. Early infections occurred in 61/539 (11.3%) patients, of whom 2 had infections in two sites. Of the 63 infections, 10 were bloodstream infections (BSI), 5 urinary tract, 27 pulmonary (2 with sepsis), 6 access site infections, 1 enterocolitis, and 14 were clinically diagnosed (no specific site). We observed 31/63 (49.2%) microbiologically-documented infections: Gram+ bacteria were isolated in 12/31 (38.7%), Gram- in 17/31 (54.3%), both Gram+ and Gram- in 2/31 (6.5%); in thirty-two infections no specific pathogen could be isolated (clinically-documented infections). Early infections were more prevalent in patients who died within 30-day (8.2% vs. 0.6%, p < 0.001) or 1-year (14.8% vs. 4.4%, p < 0.001) from TAVR. At multivariable analysis, early infections were independently associated with 30-day (HR: 8.82, 95% CI: 1.11-19.83, p = 0.035) and 1-year mortality (HR: 2.10, 95%CI: 1.28-6.21, p = 0.041). The predictive value for 1-year mortality was maintained even restricting the analysis to documented infections only, or to more severe infections (BSI and pneumonia only) (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Early infections occur in 1/10th of TAVR and are associated with increased short- and long-term mortality. Whereas a causal relationship between early infections and the risk of death cannot be unequivocally proven, careful surveillance of infected patients may improve TAVR results.

Comparison of the self-expanding Evolut-PRO transcatheter aortic valve to its predecessor Evolut-R in the real world multicenter ATLAS registry

BACKGROUND

The Evolut PRO self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve has been designed to feature an outer pericardial wrap that aims to reduce paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) rates. Medium-term clinical outcomes, compared to its predecessor Evolut R, in a real-world setting, have not been investigated. The aim of the present study was to compare the two valves with regards to peri-procedural complications, early outcomes and mid-term survival.

METHODS

Consecutive patients, undergoing TAVI with either the Evolut PRO or Evolut R device, from the multicenter ATLAS registry were retrospectively studied. Outcomes studied included periprocedural complications, PVR at discharge, need for new pacemaker implantation and Kaplan-Meier estimated 1-year all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Analysis included 673 patients (498 treated with Evolut R and 175 treated with Evolut PRO). At least moderate PVR was numerically lower amongst patients treated with Evolut PRO (7.4% vs 3.8% for Evolut R and Evolut PRO respectively, p = .108). Rates of new permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation (21.1% vs. 11.9%, p = .023), and bail-out valve-in-valve (2.4% vs. 0%, p = .049) were significantly lower amongst the Evolut PRO group. No differences were demonstrated regarding bleeding, stroke or acute kidney injury. One-year Kaplan-Meier estimated survival was similar between groups (93% for Evolut R vs. 91.2% for Evolut PRO, p_log-rank = 0.806).

CONCLUSIONS

The Evolut PRO self-expanding valve demonstrates similar mid-term survival rates and numerically, yet not significant, lower incidence of PVR compared to its predecessor. Interestingly this new generation valve is associated with a significantly reduced rate for new PPM implantation. Future studies are required to confirm this finding.

Real-world comparison of the new 34 mm self-expandable transcatheter aortic prosthesis Evolut R to its 31 mm core valve predecessor

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to compare the incidence of periprocedural complications and short-term outcomes between the second-generation recapturable 34 mm Evolut-R and its first-generation 31 mm predecessor.

BACKGROUND

Although already in extensive clinical use in real world patients, the periprocedural complications and clinical outcomes of the new 34 mm device have not been investigated yet.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who had undergone transcatheter aortic valve implantation in two centers with either a 31 mm CoreValve or a 34 mm Evolut-R device were retrospectively studied. Periprocedural complications of malpositioning, valve-in-valve implantation, conversion to full sternotomy or percutaneous coronary intervention and vascular complications were compared between the two groups. Short-term outcomes at discharge were compared using Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC-2) criteria.

RESULTS

The study group included 106 patients (35 Evolut-R 34 mm; 71 CoreValve 31 mm). Significantly lower rates of valve-in-valve implantation were demonstrated for the 34 mm group compared to the first-generation device (0% vs. 11.9%, respectively, P = 0.036). All other periprocedural complications were similar between groups. At discharge, the rates of new pacemaker implantation (5.7% vs. 26.8%, P = 0.037) and bleeding complications (2.9% vs. 19.6%, P = 0.025) were statistically significantly lower among the 34 mm group. With regards to VARC-2 defined combined endpoints, rates of early safety were significantly improved among the 34 mm group compared to 31 mm group (0% vs. 27.9%, respectively, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

The recently introduced 34 mm Evolut-R seems to demonstrate an improved safety profile, as evidenced by the reduced bleeding rates, lower rates of valve-in-valve implantation and lower PPM rates compared to its 31 mm predecessor.

Incidence and Management of Hemopericardium: Impact of Changing Trends in Invasive Cardiology

OBJECTIVE

As invasive cardiovascular care has become increasingly complex, cardiac perforation leading to hemopericardium is a progressively prevalent complication. We sought to assess the frequency, etiology, and outcomes of hemorrhagic pericardial effusions managed through a nonsurgical echo-guided percutaneous strategy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over a 10-year period (January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2016), 1097 unique patients required pericardiocentesis for clinically important pericardial effusions. Of these 411 had drainage of hemorrhagic effusions (defined as a pericardial hemoglobin level >50% of serum hemoglobin or frank blood in the setting of cardiac perforation). Clinical characteristics, echocardiographic data, details of the procedure, and outcomes were determined.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 67 years (interquartile range, 56-76 years), and 60% were men. The procedure was emergent in 83% and elective in 17%. The site of pericardiocentesis was determined by echo-guidance in all: 68% from the left para-apical region, 18% from the left or right parasternal areas, and 14% were subxyphoid. Half (n=215 [52%]) occurred after cardiac perforation with percutaneous interventional procedure (ablation, n=94; device lead implantation, n=65; percutaneous coronary intervention, n=22; other, n=34), whereas 30% followed cardiac or thoracic surgery. Pericardial fluid volume drained was 546±440 mL. In 94% of cases, echo-guided pericardiocentesis was the only treatment of the effusion needed, whereas definitive surgery was required in 25 (6%) cases for persistent bleeding or acute management of the underlying etiology. There was no procedural mortality. Late mortality was better for hemorrhagic effusions compared with a contemporary cohort with nonhemorrhagic effusions.

CONCLUSION

Echocardiographic guidance allows rapid successful pericardiocentesis in the setting of hemopericardium related to microperforation with interventional procedures, malignancy, or pericarditis, with most not requiring surgical intervention. Surgery should remain the first-line approach for aortic dissection or myocardial rupture.

The impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation on quality of life: A mixed methods study

OBJECTIVE

To provide an in-depth understanding of patients' views about the impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation on self-reported quality of life.

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is considered to be the gold standard of care for inoperable patients diagnosed with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Mid- to long-term clinical outcomes are favourable and questionnaire data indicates improvements in quality of life but an in-depth understanding of how quality of life is altered by the intervention is missing.

METHODS

A mixed methods study design with a total of 89 in-depth qualitative interviews conducted with participants (39% male; mean age 81.7 years), 1 and 3 months post TAVI, recruited from a regional centre in England. Data were triangulated with questionnaire data (SF-36 and EQ5D-VAS) collected, pre, 1 and 3 months post implantation.

RESULTS

Participants' accounts were characterised by four key themes; shortened life, extended life, limited life and changed life. Quality of life was changed through two mechanisms. Most participants reported a reduced symptom burden and all explained that their life expectancy was improved. Questionnaire data supported interview data with gradual improvements in mean EQ-5D scores and SF-36 physical and mental domain scores at 1 and 3 months compared to baseline.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that TAVI was of variable benefit, producing considerable improvements in either mental or physical health in many participants, while a smaller proportion continued to deteriorate.

Maximum Aortic Valve Opening Phase for Annulus Sizing in Pre-TAVR CTA

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

The optimal phase for the measurement of the aortic annular area for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is not standardized, although most agree that systolic measurements are preferred, when the annulus is larger. We hypothesized that the maximum annular area occurs at the cardiac phase of the maximum aortic valve opening (MAVO) and that this phase can be accurately and reproducibly assessed by visual inspection only.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aortic valve opening area was inspected visually by two readers to determine the MAVO phase. The annular area was measured at the MAVO phase and the typical systolic phase (35% of the R-R interval). Differences in the annular area that would change valve sizing for prostheses were noted.

RESULTS

Fifty patients (mean age 81) were studied. Ninety percent had the MAVO at the 15%-25% R-R interval. There was high interobserver correlation (0.89) for determining the MAVO phase by visual inspection. For 49 out of 50 patients, the annular area was maximal at the MAVO phase. The mean difference in the annular area between the MAVO phase and 35% was 22.3 (±4.57) mm². In 12% of the patients, the difference in the annular area changed the recommended size of a self-expanding prosthesis and would have altered the procedure in 32% for balloon-expandable prostheses.

CONCLUSIONS

Visually assessed MAVO occurs in early systole for most patients and is almost always the cardiac phase of the maximal aortic annular area. This method allows rapid and reproducible determination of the appropriate phase for TAVR planning measurements. Consideration should be given to optimizing pre-TAVR computed tomography acquisitions for early systolic reconstruction and visual determination of the MAVO.

Enumeration of circulating endothelial cell frequency as a diagnostic marker in aortic valve surgery - a flow cytometric approach

Background

The frequency of circulating endothelial cells (CEC) in patients’ peripheral blood can be assessed as a direct marker of endothelial damage. However, conventional enumeration methods are extremely challenging. We developed a novel, automated approach to determine CEC frequencies and tested this method on two groups of patients undergoing conventional (CAVR) versus trans-catheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods

CEC frequencies were assessed by a flow cytometric approach, including automated pre-enrichment of CD34 positive blood cell subpopulation and isotype controls. The efficacy and reproducibility of the CEC enumeration method was validated by spiking blood samples of healthy control donors with defined numbers of endothelial cells.

Results

CEC frequencies were significantly higher in the TAVI group before (9.8 ± 4.1 vs. 5.5 ± 2.2, p = 0.019) and 1 h after surgery (13.4 ± 5.1 vs. 8.2 ± 4.1, p = 0.030) corresponding to higher Euroscore, STS score in higher risk patients from the TAVI group. Five days after surgery, CEC frequencies became significantly higher in the more invasive CAVR group (39.0 ± 13.0 vs. 14.3 ± 4.4, p < 0.001) compared to minimally invasive TAVI approach.

Conclusions

The new flow cytometric approach might be a robust and reliable method for CEC enumeration. Initial results show that CEC frequency is a valid clinical marker for the assessment of pre-operative risk, invasiveness of surgical procedure and clinical outcome. Further studies are necessary to validate the practical clinical usefulness and the potential superiority compared to conventional markers.

Cerebral white matter lesion burden is associated with the degree of aortic valve calcification and predicts peri-procedural cerebrovascular events in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the impact of aortic valve calcification and brain morphology on acute peri-procedural cerebrovascular events (CVEs) in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve calcification and stenosis can be assessed with echocardiography. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) depicts and quantifies morphological signs of hypoperfusion and vascular embolism, which is of special interest in patients with severe aortic stenosis. Furthermore, subjects who undergo TAVI are prone to suffer of clinically silent peri-procedural CVEs.

METHODS

A total of 119 patients referred to TAVI were investigated for aortic valve calcification using trans-esophageal echocardiography. Cerebral MRI prior to and immediate after implantation was performed in all patients using a dedicated scan protocol. Prior to TAVI, brain morphology was characterized. Post TAVI, brains were investigated for the onset of acute peri-procedural CVEs using diffusion weighted imaging (DWI).

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients (65.5%) revealed acute peri-procedural CVEs on MRI after TAVI with a favor of the left hemisphere (57.5%). The degree of valve calcification was associated with peri-procedural CVEs. Patients with a high WML burden had an increased risk for CVEs ((OR) 2.36 (95% CI: 1.09-5.15; P = 0.037)), especially when distributed periventricular ((OR: 3.27; 95% CI: 1.47-7.26; P = 0.0038)).

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing TAVI, the degree of aortic valve calcification and periventricular WML burden were correlated with acute peri-procedural CVEs. Future studies are needed to evaluate their independent value for the long-term clinical outcome.

Correlation of CoreValve implantation 'true cover index' with short and mid-term aortic regurgitation: A novel index

BACKGROUND

'Cover index' has been proposed to appraise the congruence between the aortic annulus and the device, with the assumption of not taking into account the actual device implantation depth. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the annulus-prosthesis mismatch, as expressed with the new proposed 'true cover index' according to actual implantation depth, can predict aortic regurgitation (AR) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

Patients who had undergone TAVI with the self-expandable CoreValve device, were retrospectively studied. All available prosthesis sizes were ex-vivo scanned and the precise diameter at 0.3mm intervals along each device was measured. The 'true cover index' was evaluated, as a ratio of the following: 100×([prosthesis actual diameter at implantation depth-annulus diameter]/prosthesis actual diameter at implantation depth). AR was echocardiographically evaluated at discharge and 30days and classified as prominent if moderate, or trivial if none or mild.

RESULTS

Overall, 120 patients who had undergone TAVI, were considered eligible for the study. 'True cover index' was statistically significantly lower among patients with prominent AR in comparison with trivial AR at discharge (5.7±4.8mm vs 9±5.1, p=0.025), as well as at one month post-TAVI (5.4±5.1mm vs 9.0±5.1, p=0.023), indicating increased AR for smaller index. After adjustment for severe annulus calcification, impaired baseline LVEF and previous valvuloplasty, it remained an independent predictor of one month prominent AR (OR: 0.854, CI: 0.730-0.999; p=0.048). 'True cover index' of <4.3 was shown to predict one-month prominent AR with sensitivity =75% and specificity =82.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

'True cover index' is strongly and independently correlated with the short and mid-term AR after CoreValve implantation.

Transapical aortic valve implantation in patients with pre-existing mitral valve prostheses: a case report

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has proven to be a valid option for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at high perioperative risk, particularly in patients with previous cardiac surgery. Several patients with previous mitral valve surgery were reported to have been successfully treated with TAVI.

Case presentation

Two patients, one with mechanical and one with biological mitral valve prosthesis, presented with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. After discussion among our multidisciplinary heart team transapical approach and a JenaValve™ prosthesis was used for TAVI. Main reasons were to decrease the perioperative risk, avoid a re-opening of the chest via median sternotomy, and discuss the possible superiority of the JenaValve™ device due to its design. The patients were successfully treated and discharged on the 11th and 14th post-operative day, respectively. Echocardiographic follow up before discharge and up to 2.8 years post-operatively showed excellent results.

Conclusions

In conclusion, TAVI in patients with preexisting mitral prostheses-mechanical or biological-is feasible, safe, and effective and offers a valid alternative to conventional aortic valve replacement in this particular re-operation scenario. The JenaValve™ device does not interact with the mitral prosthesis and offers therefore due to its unique design a potential advantage.

Comparison of Edwards Sapien XT versus Lotus Valve Devices in Terms of Electrophysiological Study Parameters in Patients Undergoing TAVI

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to assess the electrocardiographic and electrophysiological parameters of conduction abnormalities in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) due to severe aortic valve stenosis.

METHODS

The study included 55 patients who underwent TAVI using either the Boston Scientific Lotus (n:25) (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA, USA) or Edwards Sapien XT (n:30) (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA) prostheses. An electrophysiological study (EPS) was performed in the catheterization room immediately before the initial balloon valvuloplasty and immediately after prosthesis implantation.

RESULTS

QRS duration and His-bundle to His-ventricle (HV) intervals, which were similar between the two groups before the procedure, were found to be significantly higher in the Lotus valve group postprocedure. Permanent pacemakers (PPMs) were required more frequently in the Lotus group than in the Sapien XT group at discharge (24.0% vs 6.7%, P = 0.07). With the exception of a higher prevalence of paravalvular leakage (P < 0.001) in patients undergoing Sapien XT implantation, other clinical outcomes were similar between the two groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that baseline atrioventricular (AV) conduction disorders and HV intervals after the procedure were independently associated with PPM implantation after TAVI.

CONCLUSION

In this first study comparing the findings of EPS and electrocardiography, the impact of the Lotus valve on AV conduction systems was greater than that of the Sapien XT. However, the need for PPM was higher in the Lotus valve than in the Sapien XT. PPM requirement is related to valve design; it may decrease with reduced frame height and metal burden in novel valve systems.

Aortic Regurgitation in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement With the Self-Expanding CoreValve Versus the Balloon-Expandable SAPIEN XT Valve

The incidence of aortic regurgitation (AR) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in a self-expanding and a balloon-expandable system is controversial. This study aimed to examine the incidence and severity of post-TAVR AR with the CoreValve (CV) versus the Edwards XT Valve (XT). Baseline, procedural, and postprocedural inhospital outcomes were compared. The primary end point was the incidence of post-TAVR AR of any severity, assessed with a transthoracic echocardiogram, in the CV versus XT groups. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was completed to evaluate for correlates of the primary end point. The secondary end points included the change in severity of AR at 30-day and 1-year follow-up. A total of 223 consecutive patients (53% men, mean age 82 years) who had transfemoral TAVR with either a CV (n = 119) or XT (n = 104) were evaluated. The rates of post-TAVR AR in the groups were similar, and there was no evidence of more-than-moderate AR in either group. There were significant differences in the rates of intraprocedural balloon postdilation with the CV (17.1%) versus XT valve (5.8%; p = 0.009) and in the rates of intraprocedural implantation of a second valve-in-valve prosthesis with the CV (9.9%) versus XT valve (2.2%; p = 0.036). There were no significant differences in inhospital safety outcomes between the 2 groups. In conclusion, the incidence of post-TAVR AR is similar between the CV and the XT valve when performed by experienced operators using optimal intraprocedural strategies, as deemed appropriate, to mitigate the severity of AR.

Antithrombotic therapy in patients undergoing TAVI with concurrent atrial fibrillation. One center experience

Aim of the present study was to record the antithrombotic approach in AF and non-AF patients undergoing TAVI, and to compare the efficiency of the used regimens combination. Antithrombotic approach of patients undergoing TAVI remains a challenging dispute. It becomes even more complex when need for anticoagulant treatment is required due to concurrent atrial fibrillation. Consecutive patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis treated with TAVI, were retrospectively studied. All patients were divided into two groups, matched to age, depending on the existence of atrial fibrillation. The primary end-point was the composite of MACE, while the secondary end-point was the occurrence of major bleeding at follow-up. A total of 80 patients were included in the study. Out of them, 20 patients (80.2 ± 5.4 years) suffered from concurrent atrial fibrillation. This group was matched with 20 patients (80.6 ± 3.7 years) with no need for anticoagulation. AF-group patients were treated with clopidogrel plus acenocoumarol for 3 months. Following that, acetylsalicylic acid plus acenocoumarol were prescribed. Non-AF patients were treated with 3 months clopidogrel plus acetylsalicylic acid followed by single acetylsalicylic acid medication. No statistical significant differences in MACE between AF and non-AF group were identified (p = 0.705, phi coefficient = 0.06) (mean follow-up 23.4 ± 14 months). Similarly, there was no statistical significant difference for bleedings among the AF and non-AF patient group (p = 0.658, phi coefficient = 0.14). In patients undergoing TAVI with CoreValve, with concurrent AF, treatment with clopidogrel plus acenocoumarol for 3 months, followed by acetylsalicylic acid plus acenocoumarol, seems safe and effective enough in long-term follow-up.

Anaesthetic management of percutaneous aortic valve implants: Results of 100 cases

INTRODUCTION

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic-valve implantation represents a therapeutic alternative for patients with severe aortic stenosis who cannot undergo surgery due to high surgical risk.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to describe the anaesthetic procedure for transfemoral transcatheter aortic-valve implantation and the results on 100 patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A series of cases are presented with prospective data collected on 100 consecutive patients. The anaesthetic procedure consisted of continuous remifentanil and propofol infusions, for sedation or general anaesthetic.

RESULTS

Almost two-thirds (65%) of the cases ended on sedation, and 35% on general anaesthetic (19% out of this total were elective and 16% were due to complications during the procedure). Complications occurred in 34% of the cases, with both vascular and complete atrioventricular block being the most frequent. Mortality within the first 24h was 5%.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of transfemoral aortic prosthesis under remifentanil-propofol sedation can be considered a valid therapeutic alternative for patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis, and with a high surgical risk, and therefore not considered for conventional surgery.

Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography for aortic annular sizing in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Background

Accurate preoperative assessment of the aortic annulus dimension is crucial for successful transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). In this study we examined the accuracy of a novel method using two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D-TEE) for measurement of the aortic annulus.

Methods

We evaluated the theoretical impact of the measurement of the annulus diameter and area using the circumcircle of a triangle method on the decision to perform the procedure and choice of the prosthesis size.

Results

Sixty-three consecutive patients were scheduled for TAVI. Mean age was 82 ± 4 years, and 25 patients (55.6 %) were female. Mean aortic annulus diameter was 20.3 ± 2.2 mm assessed by TEE on the mid-esophageal long-axis view and 23.9 ± 2.3 mm using CT (p < 0.001). There was a tendency for the TEE derived areas using the new method to be higher (p < 0.001). The TEE measurements were on average 42.33 mm² higher than the CT measurements without an evidence of a systematic over- or under-sizing (p = 1.00). Agreement between TEE and CT chosen valve sizes was good overall (kappa = 0.67 and weighted kappa = 0.71). For patients who turned out to have no AR, the two methods agreed in 84.6 % of patients.

Conclusions

CT remanis the gold standard in sizing of the aortic valve annulus. Nevertheless, sizing of the aortic valve annulus using TEE derived area may be helpful. The impact of integration of this method in the algorithm of aortic annulus sizing on the outcome of patients undergoing TAVI should be examined in future studies.

Mid-term results of 150 TAVI comparing apical versus femoral approaches

Background

Transcatheter aortic-valve implantation (TAVI) is a new therapeutic choice for treating aortic stenosis in patients considered high risk for surgery. This blooming therapeutic technique still requires evaluation of medium and long term outcome.

Method

We hereby report our results of the first 150 consecutive patients to receive TAVI implants in our population recruited from July 2009 to March 2013 in a retrospective and monocentric study. We analyzed long term morbidity and mortality criteria. We compared the apical and femoral approach results and researched predictors of cardiac mortality.

Results

The mean monitoring period was 387.62 days, mean Euroscore was 21.8, and mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) risk score was 9.2. The success rate for the procedure was 94.6 %. A total of 39 patients died. The mortality rates at the immediate perioperative point, 30 days, 1 year, and 2 years, were 4 %, 11.3 %, 22.7 %, and 26 %, respectively. As regards complications, there were 10 hemodynamic complications (6.6 %) and 20 vascular (13.3 %), 11 cardiac tamponades (7.4 %), eight mechanical (5.3 %), ten major hemorrhagic (6.7 %), 14 pulmonary (9.3 %), and 18 infectious complications (12 %). When comparing the rates of reported complications in terms of different approaches, we observed significantly more hemodynamic complications in the apical group (p = 0.049). Pulmonary complications were also significantly more common in cases of apical approach (p = 0.029). The majority of the patients reported clear functional improvement throughout their follow-up.

Conclusion

The results of the first 150 patients to receive the implant at the Nancy University Teaching Hospital (CHU Nancy) were consistent with findings in the literature. TAVI proved a credible and effective alternative to surgical valve replacement for patients at high risk during surgery.

The Anesthetic Management of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

An increasing number of patients with a high risk for surgery because of advanced age and associated comorbidities that significantly increase the perioperative risk successfully undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). TAVI is commonly performed under general or local anesthesia or local anesthesia plus mild sedation to achieve a conscious sedation. The anesthetic regimen generally depends on the patient’s clinical profile and the procedural technical characteristics, but the center’s experience and internal organization likely play an important role in anesthetic decision making. The large variation in anesthetic management among various centers and countries likely depends on the different composition of the operating team and institutional organization. Therefore, a tight interaction among the various members of the TAVI team, including the cardiac anesthetist, provides the proper anesthetic management using the chosen procedural technique.

Performance of surgical risk scores to predict mortality after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Background

Predicting mortality in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains a challenge.

Objectives

To evaluate the performance of 5 risk scores for cardiac surgery in predicting the 30-day mortality among patients of the Brazilian Registry of TAVI.

Methods

The Brazilian Multicenter Registry prospectively enrolled 418 patients undergoing TAVI in 18 centers between 2008 and 2013. The 30-day mortality risk was calculated using the following surgical scores: the logistic EuroSCORE I (ESI), EuroSCORE II (ESII), Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score, Ambler score (AS) and Guaragna score (GS). The performance of the risk scores was evaluated in terms of their calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow test) and discrimination [area under the receiver–operating characteristic curve (AUC)].

Results

The mean age was 81.5 ± 7.7 years. The CoreValve (Medtronic) was used in 86.1% of the cohort, and the transfemoral approach was used in 96.2%. The observed 30-day mortality was 9.1%. The 30-day mortality predicted by the scores was as follows: ESI, 20.2 ± 13.8%; ESII, 6.5 ± 13.8%; STS score, 14.7 ± 4.4%; AS, 7.0 ± 3.8%; GS, 17.3 ± 10.8%. Using AUC, none of the tested scores could accurately predict the 30-day mortality. AUC for the scores was as follows: 0.58 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49 to 0.68, p = 0.09] for ESI; 0.54 (95% CI: 0.44 to 0.64, p = 0.42) for ESII; 0.57 (95% CI: 0.47 to 0.67, p = 0.16) for AS; 0.48 (95% IC: 0.38 to 0.57, p = 0.68) for STS score; and 0.52 (95% CI: 0.42 to 0.62, p = 0.64) for GS. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test indicated acceptable calibration for all scores (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

In this real world Brazilian registry, the surgical risk scores were inaccurate in predicting mortality after TAVI. Risk models specifically developed for TAVI are required.

Feasibility of a new method using two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography for aortic annular sizing in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation; a case-control study

Background

Accurate preoperative assessment of the aortic annulus dimension is crucial for successful transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). In this study we validated a new method using two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D-TEE) for measurement of the aortic annulus prior to TAVI.

Methods

We analysed 124 patients who underwent successful TAVI using a self-expandable prosthesis, divided equally into two groups; in the study group we used the cross sectional short axis 2D-TEE for measurement of the aortic annulus and in the control group we used the long axis 2D-TEE.

Results

Both groups were comparable regarding the clinical parameters. On the other hand, patients in the study group had less left ventricular ejection fraction (38.9 % versus 45.6 %, p = 0.01). The aortic valve annulus was, although not statistically significant, smaller in the study group (21.58 versus 23.28 mm, p = 0.25).

Post procedural quantification of the aortic regurgitation revealed that only one patient in both groups had severe aortic regurgitation (AR), in this patient the valve was implanted deep. The incidence of significant AR was higher in the control group (29.0 % versus 12.9 %, p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Sizing of the aortic valve annulus using cross-sectional 2D-TEE offers a safe and plausible method for patients undergoing TAVI using the self-expandable prosthesis and is significantly superior to using long axis 2D-TEE.

Salvaging catastrophe in transcatheter aortic valve implantation: rehearsal, preassigned roles, and emergency preparedness

PURPOSE

Emergency rescue plans for acute complications during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) commonly include cardiopulmonary resuscitation, femoro-femoral cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and hemodynamic stabilization before definitive intervention is achieved. Nevertheless, most cases of emergency resuscitation remain chaotic and disorganized and often take longer than necessary, even in experienced centres. We sought to determine which factors and procedures may be associated with improved patient outcomes when emergencies arise during TAVI.

SOURCES

MEDLINE(®) and EMBASE™ were searched with the following key words: "TAVI" or "TAVR" or "transcatheter valve implantation" or "transcatheter valve replacement" and "emergency cardiac surgery" or "conversion". Two hundred seventeen articles met the criteria and were reviewed.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Utilization of a formal emergency checklist by a multidisciplinary TAVI team may reduce procedural errors, smooth the transition to CPB, and ultimately speed the delivery of corrective measures including emergency cardiac surgery.

CONCLUSION

A well-organized regularly-rehearsed emergency rescue plan that preassigns resuscitative roles may shorten the duration of patient instability and resuscitation and improve patient outcomes when catastrophe occurs in TAVI. The anesthesia team plays a central role in preventing, detecting, and treating intraprocedural complications during TAVI.

The role of balloon aortic valvuloplasty in the era of transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Balloon aortic valvuloplasty is recommended in patients not suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation/aortic valve replacement (TAVI/AVR) or when such interventions are temporarily contraindicated. The number of performed balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) procedures has been increasing in recent years. Valvuloplasty enables the selection of individuals with severe left ventricular dysfunction or with symptoms of uncertain origin resulting from concomitant disorders (including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]) who can benefit from destination therapy (AVR/TAVI). Thanks to improved equipment, the number of adverse effects is now lower than it was in the first years after the advent of BAV. Valvuloplasty can be safely performed even in unstable patients, but long-term results remain poor. In view of the limited availability of TAVI in Poland, it is reasonable to qualify patients for BAV more often, as it is a relatively safe procedure improving the clinical condition of patients awaiting AVR/TAVI.

Resection of calcified aortic heart leaflets in vitro by Q-switched 2 µm microsecond laser radiation

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can result in paravalvular leakage and stent deformation in the presence of severe calcification. This study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of laser-assisted resection of calcific aortic valve leaflets as a method to minimize the effects of calcium on perivalvular leakage during TAVI.

METHODS

A Q-switched Tm:YAG laser emitting at a wavelength of 2.01 μm was used to evaluate the cutting efficiency on highly calcified human aortic leaflets in vitro (N = 10). A pulse energy of 4.3 mJ, a pulse duration of 0.8-1 μs, and a repetition rate of 1 kHz were used. The radiation was transmitted via a 200 µm core diameter quartz fiber. Resection was performed in a fiber-tissue contact mode on water-covered samples in a dish. The remnant particles were analyzed with respect to quantity and size by light microscopy.

RESULTS

A resection rate of 40.4 ± 22.2 mg/min on highly calcified aortic leaflets was achieved. This corresponds to a cutting speed of approximately 1 cm/min; a laser dissection time of 3 min per leaflet is expected. The majority of the remnant particles (85.4%) were <6 μm in diameter, with only 0.1% exceeding 300 μm.

CONCLUSIONS

The Q-switched Tm:YAG laser system showed promising results in cutting calcified aortic valves, by transmitting sufficient energy through a small flexible fiber. Catheter-based removal of aortic valve calcification may help to improve TAVI technology.

Transcatheter valve implantation improves central sleep apnoea in severe aortic stenosis

AIMS

Severe cardiac disorders predispose to central sleep apnoea (CSA). We sought to examine the relationship between severe aortic stenosis, sleep disordered breathing (SDB), and CSA before and after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients (81±6 yrs, 41% male, LVEF 48±14%) with severe aortic stenosis and high surgical risk underwent polygraphy before and three months after TAVI. Patients with an apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) >5/hr were considered to have SDB. SDB with ≥50% absence of both airflow and ventilatory effort was defined as CSA. Twenty-one of 29 patients (72%) had SDB (6/6/9 mild, moderate, and severe, respectively), 12 (41%) with CSA (0/4/8) and 9 (31%) with obstructive sleep apnoea (7/2/0). There was a strong correlation of CSA with LVEDP before TAVI (r=0.74, p=0.024), but not with LVEF, systolic pulmonary artery pressure or NT pro-BNP. After TAVI, AHI improved significantly, particularly in the CSA group (from 43.5±17.5 to 19.4±12.9/hr, p<0.001). Prevalence and severity of SDB were reduced from 72% to 59% (6/6/9 to 7/8/2 patients), triggered by the significant improvement of CSA.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with severe aortic stenosis display a high prevalence of SDB, particularly of CSA. Definitive treatment with TAVI greatly resolved SDB in the CSA subgroup.

Advanced age and the clinical outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is common in the elderly. Although surgical replacement of the valve has been the gold standard of management, many patients have been excluded from surgery because they were very old, frail, or had co-morbidities that increased operative risks. In the last decade, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a new treatment option suitable for these patients. This article reviews the available literature on the role of TAVI in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis. Published studies showed that elderly individuals who underwent TAVI experienced better in-hospital recovery, and similar short and mid-term mortality compared to those underwent surgical treatment of AS. However, long-term outcomes of TAVI in elderly patients are still unknown. The available data in the literature on the effect of advanced age on clinical outcomes of TAVI are limited, but the data that are available suggest that TAVI is a beneficial and tolerable procedure in very old patients. Some of the expected complications after TAVI are reported more in the oldest patients such as vascular injures. Other complications were comparable in TAVI patients regardless of their age group. However, very old patients may need closer monitoring to avoid further morbidities and mortality.

How should I treat severe symptomatic aortic stenosis with transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a patient with right aortic arch?

BACKGROUND

An 84-year-old man suffering from dyspnoea on mild exertion and a 10-year history of mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis presented to our department. The patient had an isolated right aortic arch.

INVESTIGATION

Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated severe LV systolic dysfunction (EF 25%), good function of the previously implanted mechanical prosthesis and severe aortic stenosis. Multislice computed tomography confirmed the presence of an isolated right aortic arch with mirror-image branching.

DIAGNOSIS

Severe symptomatic aortic stenosis in a patient with right aortic arch at high risk for surgical reintervention.

MANAGEMENT

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation using conventional delivery system.

Prognostic value of cerebral injury following transfemoral aortic valve implantation

AIMS

To evaluate the impact of serological, imaging and clinical measures of cerebral injury on patient self-sufficiency and survival after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Before and three days after TAVI, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), cerebral diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and neurological performance utilising National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) were assessed. Self-sufficiency was determined with established score systems (instrumental activities of daily living score, Barthel Index). Parameters of cerebral injury were investigated for their impact on self-sufficiency and all-cause mortality after 30 days and one year. Sixty-one patients were enrolled (logistic EuroSCORE: 26.4±18.1, STS score: 7.9±5.7), of whom 39 completed the imaging protocol. The incidences of NSE increase, new embolic events in DW-MRI, and neurological deficit early after TAVI were 52.4%, 71.8% and 6.6%, respectively. The degree of concomitant comorbidities, reflected by higher risk scores, had significant impact on outcome. Plasma levels of NSE and new emboli in DW-MRI were neither related to self-sufficiency nor to survival one year after TAVI.

CONCLUSIONS

In this observational pilot study, "silent" cerebral injury is neither related to dependent lifestyle nor to mortality during the first year after TAVI. However, long-term follow-up is needed to elucidate fully the impact of silent stroke. Clinical trials number: NCT00883285.

Transapical aortic valve implantation in patients with previous cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

This study compared surgical outcomes of patients with previous cardiac surgery undergoing transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation (PCS-TA-TAVI) with those of patients undergoing transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation as an initial procedure (initial TA-TAVI) by using propensity analysis.

METHODS

From January 2005 through January 2013, 267 consecutive high-risk patients underwent transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation using a pericardial xenograft fixed within a stainless steel, balloon-expandable stent (Edwards SAPIEN). Of these, 59 patients underwent PCS-TA-TAVI (coronary artery bypass grafting: n = 31; valve surgery: n = 28), and the remaining 208 had an initial TA-TAVI procedure. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify covariates among 10 baseline patient variables. Using the significant regression coefficients, each patient's propensity score was calculated, allowing selectively matched subgroups of 45 patients in the two groups. Operative outcomes were analyzed for differences. Follow-up was 4 ± 2 years and 100% complete.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between PCS-TA-TAVI and initial TA-TAVI patients in operative time, postoperative bleeding, 30-day survival (91% versus 93%), and survival at late follow-up (63% versus 68%; p ≥ 0.28). Overall incidence of early stroke was low with 0% for the PCS-TA-TAVI and 4% for initial TA-TAVI group (p = 0.56). Transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation was successfully performed in all but 1 patient from the initial TA-TAVI group who required conversion to sternotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation has simplified surgical treatment of high-risk patients with previous cardiac surgery and severe aortic valve stenosis and is associated with minimal risk of stroke. Furthermore, current data suggest that the presence of previous cardiac surgery does not impair outcomes after transapical transcatheter aortic valve implantation, making this subset of patients particularly applicable for this evolving approach.

Impact of CT-guided valve sizing on post-procedural aortic regurgitation in transcatheter aortic valve implantation

AIMS

Transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is considered the gold standard method for annulus measurement in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, computed tomography (CT) has potential advantages compared to TEE. We sought to assess the impact of CT-guided valve sizing on post-procedural aortic regurgitation (AR).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We compared procedural characteristics and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing either TEE-guided or CT-guided TAVI. Among 350 consecutive TAVI recipients, the mean age was 83.2 ± 6.4 years and the logistic EuroSCORE was 22.4 ± 11.2%. The mean Diam-TEE was similar in both groups (22.3 ± 1.9 mm vs. .0 ± 1.8 mm, p=0.092). The mean annulus diameter by CT (mDiam-CT) was larger than mean Diam-TEE (23.6 ± 2.0 mm vs. 22.3 ± 1.9 mm, p<0.001), and resulted in larger valve implant sizes compared to the TEE-guided group (25.8 ± 2.1 mm vs. 25.0 ± 1.9 mm, p<0.001). The incidence of post-procedural AR ≥ grade 2 was significantly reduced in the CT-guided group (15.4% vs. 24.0%, p=0.044), with a similar risk of annulus rupture (0.6% vs. 1.7%, p=0.31). The only predictor of post-procedural AR ≥ 2 was the "valve/mDiam-CT ratio" (HR 0.36 by increase of 0.1, 95% CI: 0.17-0.77, p=0.008) by multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

CT-guided valve sizing in TAVI significantly reduces the incidence of post-procedural AR compared to TEE sizing. This strategy may have the potential to improve clinical outcomes.

The effects of VARC-defined acute kidney injury after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) using the Edwards bioprosthesis

AIMS

The aim of this study was to identify the incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) after TAVI, a potentially serious complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) that has been redefined by the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a retrospective analysis of 248 patients undergoing TAVI. AKI was defined as a VARC-modified Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, and End-stage (RIFLE) kidney disease score ≥ 2. Eighty-nine patients suffered AKI (35.9%) and demonstrated increased mortality at 30 days (13.5% vs. 3.8%) and one year (31.5% vs. 15.0%) (p<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis identified diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), peripheral vascular disease (p=0.007), chronic kidney disease stage (p=0.010) as independently associated risk factors for AKI.

CONCLUSIONS

More than one third of patients sustain AKI after TAVI using the Edwards bioprosthesis, as defined by the VARC-modified RIFLE score. AKI increased the mortality at both 30 days and at one year. A history of diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease and higher chronic kidney disease stage had the strongest independent associations with post-TAVI AKI.

The evolving role of cardiac imaging in percutaneous valvular intervention

Surgical therapies have represented the primary evidence-based intervention to alter the natural history of valvular heart disease (VHD), however, the increasing incidence of patients at high surgical risk due to age and related co-morbid conditions has given rise to the need for alternative strategies. Thus, percutaneous approaches to VHD therapy have emerged as an important therapeutic option. Cardiovascular imaging plays a critical role in patient screening for percutaneous valvular interventions, during the procedure itself, and as part of follow-up for the identification of implant success/failure and complications. The technical demands on imaging in this context are highly specific. Although imaging has a significant role in the broader evaluation of valvular heart disease mechanism and severity, the purpose of this paper is to summarise the particular goals of cardiovascular imaging in the work-up for, during, and in the follow-up of percutaneous valvular intervention.