Updated standardized endpoint definitions for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 consensus document

Late bleeding events in TAVI patients receiving vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

The optimal chronic antithrombotic regimen for patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains uncertain. Our aim was to compare the incidence of late bleeding events between patients on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and those on vitamin-K antagonists (VKA).

METHODS

This single-center observational study included TAVI patients requiring oral anticoagulation at discharge between 2015 and 2021. The primary endpoint was any clinically significant bleeding event. Secondary endpoints were stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 702 TAVI procedures were performed, with 297 patients requiring oral anticoagulation at discharge. Among them, 206 (69.4%) received VKA and 91 (30.6%) received DOAC. Baseline clinical, procedural and in-hospital characteristics did not significantly differ between groups, except for better renal function among DOAC patients. The median length of follow-up was 2.8 years. The risk of bleeding events was higher in patients receiving DOACs than in those receiving VKA (HR, 2.27; 95%CI, 1.21-4.26; incidence of 9.7 and 4.2 events per 100 patient-years of follow-up for DOAC and VKA patients, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of stroke (HR, 1.28; 95%CI, 0.4-4.3), heart failure hospitalization (HR, 0.92; 95%CI, 0.46-1.86), or all-cause mortality (HR, 1.02; 95%CI, 0.68-1.55).

CONCLUSIONS

In older patients undergoing TAVI and receiving anticoagulant therapy for atrial fibrillation, the use of DOAC was associated with a higher risk of late bleeding events than VKA.

del Nido and Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate cardioplegia in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: A propensity-Match study

INTRODUCTION

In the last decade, del Nido cardioplegia has been embedded in adult cardiac surgery involving CABG and aortic valve surgical procedures. We reviewed our early experience with del Nido cardioplegia in the setting of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.

METHODS

Data on 120 consecutive patients operated between 03/2021 and 06/2022 were retrieved from our internal database (infective endocarditis and urgent operations were excluded). Patients were divided into two groups according to the use of Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate or del Nido cardioplegia. A propensity match analysis was performed using thirteen preoperative and intraoperative variables. Several intraoperative data and early postoperative outcomes were investigated, including cardiac enzymes (Troponin I HS and CK-MB) measured upon arrival in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), after 12 hours and everyday thereafter.

RESULTS

There was no difference in preoperative characteristics and surgical techniques between both unmatched and matched Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate and del Nido populations. Patients in the del Nido group received a lower volume of cardioplegia (p < 0.001) and ultrafiltration during CPB (p < 0.001). Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate was associated with a lower rate of post cross-clamp spontaneous defibrillation (p < 0.001) and showed a lower level of blood sodium after CPB (p < 0.001). The release of cardiac enzymes was similar between the two groups (p = 0.72). There was no difference in terms of postoperative morbidity and 30 day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

del Nido cardioplegia in the setting of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery seemed safe with acceptable myocardial protection and excellent early outcomes.

Long-Term Impact of Cardiac Damage Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Extravalvular cardiac damage caused by aortic stenosis affects prognosis after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The long-term impact of changes in cardiac damage in response to relief from mechanical obstruction has not been fully investigated.

OBJECTIVES

The authors aimed to investigate changes in cardiac damage early after TAVR and the prognostic impact of the cardiac damage classification after TAVR.

METHODS

In this single-center observational study, patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR were retrospectively evaluated for cardiac damage before and after TAVR and classified into 5 stages of cardiac damage (0-4).

RESULTS

Among 1,863 patients undergoing TAVR between January 2007 and June 2022, 56 patients (3.0%) were classified as stage 0, 225 (12.1%) as stage 1, 729 (39.1%) as stage 2, 388 (20.8%) as stage 3, and 465 (25.0%) as stage 4. Cardiac stage changed in 47.7% of patients (improved: 30.1% in stages 1-4 and deteriorated: 24.7% in stages 0-3) early after TAVR. Five-year all-cause mortality was associated with cardiac damage both at baseline (HRadjusted: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.24-1.44; P < 0.001 for linear trend) and after TAVR (HRadjusted: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.30-1.51; P < 0.001 for linear trend). Five-year all-cause mortality was stratified by changes in cardiac damage (improved, unchanged, or worsened) in patients with cardiac stage 2, 3, and 4 (log-rank P < 0.001 for stage 2, 0.005 for stage 3, and <0.001 for stage 4).

CONCLUSIONS

The extent of extra-aortic valve cardiac damage before and after TAVR and changes in cardiac stage early after TAVR have important prognostic implications during long-term follow-up. (SwissTAVI Registry; NCT01368250).

Self-Expanding or Balloon-Expandable TAVR in Patients with a Small Aortic Annulus

BACKGROUND

Patients with severe aortic stenosis and a small aortic annulus are at risk for impaired valvular hemodynamic performance and associated adverse cardiovascular clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

We randomly assigned patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and an aortic-valve annulus area of 430 mm2 or less in a 1:1 ratio to undergo TAVR with either a self-expanding supraannular valve or a balloon-expandable valve. The coprimary end points, each assessed through 12 months, were a composite of death, disabling stroke, or rehospitalization for heart failure (tested for noninferiority) and a composite end point measuring bioprosthetic-valve dysfunction (tested for superiority).

RESULTS

A total of 716 patients were treated at 83 sites in 13 countries (mean age, 80 years; 87% women; mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality, 3.3%). The Kaplan-Meier estimate of the percentage of patients who died, had a disabling stroke, or were rehospitalized for heart failure through 12 months was 9.4% with the self-expanding valve and 10.6% with the balloon-expandable valve (difference, -1.2 percentage points; 90% confidence interval [CI], -4.9 to 2.5; P<0.001 for noninferiority). The Kaplan-Meier estimate of the percentage of patients with bioprosthetic-valve dysfunction through 12 months was 9.4% with the self-expanding valve and 41.6% with the balloon-expandable valve (difference, -32.2 percentage points; 95% CI, -38.7 to -25.6; P<0.001 for superiority). The aortic-valve mean gradient at 12 months was 7.7 mm Hg with the self-expanding valve and 15.7 mm Hg with the balloon-expandable valve, and the corresponding values for additional secondary end points through 12 months were as follows: mean effective orifice area, 1.99 cm2 and 1.50 cm2; percentage of patients with hemodynamic structural valve dysfunction, 3.5% and 32.8%; and percentage of women with bioprosthetic-valve dysfunction, 10.2% and 43.3% (all P<0.001). Moderate or severe prosthesis-patient mismatch at 30 days was found in 11.2% of the patients in the self-expanding valve group and 35.3% of those in the balloon-expandable valve group (P<0.001). Major safety end points appeared to be similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with severe aortic stenosis and a small aortic annulus who underwent TAVR, a self-expanding supraannular valve was noninferior to a balloon-expandable valve with respect to clinical outcomes and was superior with respect to bioprosthetic-valve dysfunction through 12 months. (Funded by Medtronic; SMART ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04722250.).

Enhancing Arterial Closure in Endovascular Aortic Procedures: The Efficacy of Echo-Guided ProGlide Technique

BACKGROUND

Endovascular aortic surgery is increasingly becoming the standard treatment. Percutaneous access preclosing systems appear to be effective and notably the Proglide (PG). We aimed to prospectively assess the clinical effectiveness of combining ultrasound-guided femoral puncture with ultrasound-guided PG deployment.

METHODS

Our single-center study consecutively included patients managed at a tertiary center from May to September 2023, undergoing endovascular aortic surgery. The placement of PG was performed under ultrasound guidance. Preoperative patient characteristics were evaluated using preoperative computed tomography scans. Clinical and technical success were defined, respectively, as the ability to achieve complete hemostasis confirmed by ultrasound 48 hr postprocedure and as the successful placement of a PG under ultrasound guidance contributing to final hemostasis.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included over a 6-month period, totaling 34 common femoral arteries (CFAs). Fourteen were male, with an average age of 72.8 ± 8.2 years. Among the 34 CFA, CFA had diameter of 12.05 ± 2.4 mm and a depth of 38.0 ± 13.4 mm. The mean introducer sheath diameter was 6.2 ± 1.5 mm with a sheath to femoral artery ratio of 0.54 ± 0.18. Successful Proglide placement under ultrasound guidance was achieved in 100% of cases. No PG failure occurred. Clinical and technical success were, respectively, of 95% and 100%. One small pseudoaneurysm was observed at 48 hr treated medically. No CFA access reintervention was required.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique of ultrasound-guided PG deployment in aortic surgery is a safe and effective method for achieving hemostasis. It effectively prevents PG failures at a lower cost.

Assessment of transabdominal fat volumes as a predictor of prognosis in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has emerged as a well-established treatment option for eligible patients with severe aortic stenosis. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between abdominal fat tissue volumes, measured using computed tomography (CT), and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing TAVR. The study included 258 consecutive patients who underwent TAVR at a single center between September 2017 and November 2020. During the preoperative preparation, CT scans were used to perform a semi-quantitative measurement of abdominal fat components. Body mass index (BMI) for each participant was calculated. The relationship between fat parameters and overall survival was determined using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. Participants had a mean age of 76.8 ± 7.8 years, of whom 32.9% were male. The median follow-up period was 12 months, during which 38 patients (14.7%) died. Both the survivor and non-survivor groups showed comparable risk factors. Regarding transabdominal fat volume parameters, deceased individuals exhibited significantly lower values. However, no significant differences were observed in BMI and transabdominal area measurements. Among transabdominal fat parameters, only subcutaneous fat volume [adjusted Hazard Ratio (aHR) = 0.83, p = 0.045] and total fat volume (TFV) [aHR = 0.82, p = 0.007] were identified as significant predictors of reduced all-cause mortality. Furthermore, TFV demonstrated the highest discriminative performance with a threshold of ≤ 9.1 L (AUC = 0.751, p < 0.001, sensitivity 71.1%, specificity 70.9%). Preoperative CT-based abdominal fat volume parameters, particularly TFV, can serve as potential predictors of survival in patients undergoing TAVR.

Sex-Specific Disparities in Clinical Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Among Different Racial Populations

Background

Sex-related disparities in clinical outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and the impact of sex on clinical outcomes after TAVR among different racial groups are undetermined.

Objectives

This study assessed whether sex-specific differences in baseline clinical and anatomical characteristics affect clinical outcomes after TAVR and investigated the impact of sex on clinical outcomes among different racial groups.

Methods

The TP-TAVR (Trans-Pacific TAVR) registry is a multinational cohort study of patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR at 2 major centers in the United States and 1 major center in South Korea. The primary outcome was a composite of death from any cause, stroke, or rehospitalization after 1 year.

Results

The incidence of the primary composite outcome was not significantly different between sexes (27.9% in men vs 28% in women; adjusted HR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.79-1.20). This pattern was consistent in Asian (23.5% vs 23.3%; adjusted HR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.69-1.41) and non-Asian (30.8% vs 31.6%; adjusted HR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.72-1.24) cohorts, without a significant interaction between sex and racial group (P for interaction = 0.74). The adjusted risk for all-cause mortality was similar between sexes, regardless of racial group. However, the adjusted risk of stroke was significantly lower in male patients than in female patients, which was more prominent in the non-Asian cohort.

Conclusions

Despite significantly different baseline and procedural characteristics, there were no sex-specific differences in the adjusted 1-year rates of primary composite outcomes and all-cause mortality, regardless of different racial groups. (Transpacific TAVR registry [TP-TAVR]; NCT03826264).

Comparing safety and efficacy: MemoLefort versus watchman for left atrial appendage closure

BACKGROUND

The MemoLefort is a new plug occluder for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). This study compares the safety and efficacy of MemoLefort and the well-established Watchman occluder for LAAC.

METHODS

Between January 2021 and September 2022, a cohort of 189 consecutive patients who underwent LAAC with MemoLefort or Watchman at The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University were included. Patients with MemoLefort or Watchman devices were compared in terms of the primary safety endpoints encompassing major periprocedural complications and major bleeding events at follow-up, the primary efficacy endpoint of all-cause stroke, systemic embolism and cardiovascular/unexplained death, and the combined hazard endpoint, a composite of all the above-mentioned hazards.

RESULTS

Of the MemoLefort group (n = 83) and Watchman group (n = 106), the mean age, CHA2DS2-VASc score, and HAS-BLED score were 67.6 ± 9.2 vs. 69.0 ± 10.6 years, 3.9 ± 1.9 vs. 3.8 ± 1.9, and 1.6 ± 1.0 vs. 1.7 ± 1.2, respectively. After a median follow-up duration of 198 (99-329) vs. 334 (171-497) days, the primary endpoints of efficacy [2/49, 4.1% (MemoLefort) vs. 2/97, 2.1% (Watchman); hazard ratio (HR), 1.50; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.20-11.08; P = 0.68] and safety (1/49, 2.0% vs. 5/97, 5.2%; HR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.05-1.31; P = 0.19), as well as the combined hazard endpoint (3/49, 61% vs. 6/97, 6.2%; HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.18-2.58; P = 0.59) were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the short term, LAAC with MemoLefort provided similar efficacy, safety, and net clinical benefit in comparison to Watchman devices.

Low- or standard-dose edoxaban versus antiplatelet therapy for leaflet thrombus and cerebral thromboembolism after TAVR: A prespecified analysis of randomized ADAPT-TAVR trial

BACKGROUND

The risks of leaflet thrombosis and the associated cerebral thromboembolism are unknown according to different anticoagulation dosing after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The aim was to evaluate the incidence of leaflet thrombosis and cerebral thromboembolism between low-dose (30 mg) or standard-dose (60 mg) edoxaban and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after TAVR.

METHODS

In this prespecified subgroup analysis of the ADAPT-TAVR trial, the primary endpoint was the incidence of leaflet thrombosis on 4-dimensional computed tomography at 6-months. Key secondary endpoints were new cerebral lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging and neurological and neurocognitive dysfunction.

RESULTS

Of 229 patients enrolled in this study, 118 patients were DAPT group and 111 were edoxaban group (43 [39.1%] 60 mg vs 68 [61.3%] 30 mg). There was a significantly lower incidence of leaflet thrombosis in the standard-dose edoxaban group than in the DAPT group (2.4% vs 18.3%; odds ratio [OR] 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.55; P = .03). However, no significant difference was observed between low-dose edoxaban and DAPT (15.0% vs 18.3%; OR 0.79; 95% CI, 0.32-1.81; P = .58). Irrespective of different antithrombotic regiments, the percentages of patients with new cerebral lesions on brain MRI and worsening neurological or neurocognitive function were not significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients without an indication for anticoagulation after TAVR, the incidence of leaflet thrombosis was significantly lower with standard-dose edoxaban but not with low-dose edoxaban, as compared with DAPT. However, this differential effect of edoxaban on leaflet thrombosis was not associated with a reduction of new cerebral thromboembolism and neurological dysfunction.

Frailty assessment using photographs in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

When frailty is considered in patient selection, better outcomes are achieved in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures. This study investigated whether patient photographs could be utilized to qualitatively assess patient frailty and independently predict poor outcomes following TAVR.

METHODS

This study included 1345 patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR at the Sakakibara Heart Institute, Japan, between 2013 and 2022. Patient photographs were taken prior to the initial outpatient clinic examination or at discharge in case the patient's first visit was unplanned admission. Frailty was assessed from patient photographs using a four-point photographic frailty scale; 1 (non-frail), 2 (vulnerable), 3 (mild frail), and 4 (frail). Photographic frailty scale of 3 and 4 were defined as high. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality following TAVR.

RESULTS

Seven hundred ninety-six patients who had their facial photographs taken within six months before the TAVR procedure were analyzed. Patients with a higher photographic frailty scale belonged to New York Heart Association classes III/IV, and had higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons scores, higher incidence of wheelchair usage, lower hemoglobin, and smaller aortic valve areas. According to the frailty assessment, patients with a higher photographic frailty scale exhibited slower performance in the 5-m walk test, reduced hand grip strength, more severe dementia, had a higher clinical frailty scale, and lower serum albumin level. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that the high photographic frailty scale was independently associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.62, 95 % confidence interval 1.12-2.33, p = 0.010). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that patients with high photographic frailty scale had higher all-cause mortality rates compared to those with low scale (log-rank p = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Patient registration photographs can be used to obtain qualitative assessments of frailty in severe aortic stenosis cases, and such assessments can independently predict poor outcomes following TAVR.

On-table extubation is associated with reduced intensive care unit stay and hospitalization after trans-axillary minimally invasive mitral valve surgery

OBJECTIVES

Few data are available regarding early extubation after mitral valve surgery. We sought to assess the impact of an enhanced recovery after surgery-based protocol-ultra-fast-track protocol-in patients undergoing minimally invasive transaxillary mitral valve surgery.

METHODS

Data of patients who underwent transaxillary mitral valve surgery associated with ultra-fast-track protocol between 2018 and 2023 were reviewed. We compared preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data of patients who had fast-track extubation (≤6 h since the end of the procedure) and non-fast-track extubation (>6 h) and, within the fast-track group, patients who underwent on-table extubation and patients who were extubated in intensive care unit within 6 h. Multivariable logistic regression was used to study the association of extubation timing and intensive care unit stay, postoperative stay and discharge home.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-six patients were included in the study. Two hundred eighty-two patients underwent fast-track extubation (79%) and 160 were extubated on table (45%). We found no difference in terms of mortality and occurrence of major complications (overall mortality and cerebral stroke 0.3%) according to the extubation timing. Fast-track extubation was associated with shorter intensive care unit stay, discharge home and discharge home within postoperative day 7 when compared to non-fast-track extubation. Within the fast-track group, on-table extubation was associated with intensive care unit stay ≤1 day and discharge home within postoperative day 7.

CONCLUSIONS

Fast-track extubation was achievable in most of the patients undergoing transaxillary minimally invasive mitral valve surgery and was associated with higher rates of day 1 intensive care unit discharge and discharge home. On-table extubation was associated with further reduced intensive care unit stay and hospitalization.

Impact of sex on Transcatheter aortic valve replacement outcomes: Results of a single-center study

BACKGROUND

Early studies on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) outcomes showed that female sex was associated with better survival. With increased use of new-generation valves, the impact of sex on contemporary TAVR outcomes is less well known.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis using institutional National Cardiovascular Data Registry STS/ACC TVT data was performed on all patients undergoing TAVR at Yale New Haven Hospital from July 2012 to August 2019. New-generation valves were Evolut PRO, Evolut R, and SAPIEN 3. Old-generation valves were CoreValve, SAPIEN, and SAPIEN XT. Log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare sex differences in survival up to 1 year after TAVR. Cox modeling was used to adjust for baseline and procedural characteristic differences.

RESULTS

927 consecutive patients (41.4% women) underwent TAVR. Women were older (82.8 vs 80.6 years old; p < 0.001) with higher STS mortality scores compared with men (7.6% vs 6.4%; p < 0.001) despite lower prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities including coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and smoking. Most cases used transfemoral access (90.5%) and new-generation devices (72.3%). Women received smaller valves compared with men (20-26 mm: 78.0% vs 32.9%; 29-34 mm: 22.1% vs 67.1%; overall p < 0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences between sexes in both unadjusted and adjusted 1-year mortality.

CONCLUSION

Our data show no significant difference in 1-year survival between sexes using primarily new generation valves. Further studies should reassess the impact of sex on TAVR outcomes and whether newer technologies like new valve design and sizes, and CT imaging may have eliminated sex-based disparities.

Midterm outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with active cancer

OBJECTIVES

The clinical outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and concomitant active cancer remain insufficiently explored. This study aimed to assess the midterm outcomes of TAVR in patients diagnosed with AS and active cancer.

METHODS

Data from the OCEAN-TAVI, a prospective Japanese registry of TAVR procedures, was analysed to compare prognoses and clinical outcomes in patients with and without active cancer at the time of TAVR.

RESULTS

Of the 2336 patients who underwent TAVR from October 2013 to July 2017, 89 patients (3.8%) had active cancer, whereas 2247 did not. Among patients with active cancer, 49 had limited-stage cancer (stage 1 or 2). The prevalent cancers identified before TAVR were colon (21%), prostate (18%), lung (15%), liver (11%) and breast (9%). Although the periprocedural complications and 30-day mortality rates were comparable between the groups, the 3-year survival rate after TAVR was notably lower in patients with active cancer (64.7%) than in those without active cancer (74.7%; p=0.016). Nevertheless, the 3-year survival rate of patients with limited-stage cancer (stage 1 or 2) did not significantly differ from those without cancer (70.6% vs 74.7%, p=0.50).

CONCLUSIONS

The patients with active cancer exhibited significantly reduced midterm survival rates. However, no distinct disparity existed in those with limited-stage cancer (stage 1 or 2). Although TAVR is a viable treatment in patients with AS with active cancer, the type and stage of cancer and prognosis should be carefully weighed in the decision-making process.

Drug-eluting stents for coronary artery disease in the perspective of bibliometric analysis

Drug-eluting stents (DES) play a crucial role in treating coronary artery disease (CAD) by preventing restenosis. These stents are coated with drug carriers that release antiproliferative drugs within the vessel. Over the past two decades, DES have been employed in clinical practice using various materials, polymers, and drug types. Despite optimizations in their design and materials to enhance biocompatibility and antithrombotic properties, evaluating their long-term efficacy and safety necessitates improved clinical follow-up and monitoring. To delineate future research directions, this study employs a bibliometric analysis approach. We comprehensively surveyed two decades' worth of literature on DES for CAD using the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). Out of 5,778 articles, we meticulously screened them based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subsequently, we conducted an in-depth analysis encompassing annual publication trends, authorship affiliations, journal affiliations, keywords, and more. Employing tools such as Excel 2021, CiteSpace 6.2R3, VOSviewer 1.6.19, and Pajek 5.17, we harnessed bibliometric methods to derive insights from this corpus. Analysis of annual publication data indicates a recent stabilisation or even a downward trend in research output in this area. The United States emerged as the leading contributor, with Columbia University and CRF at the forefront in both publication output and citation impact. The most cited document pertained to standardized definitions for clinical endpoints in coronary stent trials. Our author analysis identifies Patrick W. Serruys as the most prolific contributor, underscoring a dynamic exchange of knowledge within the field.Moreover, the dual chart overlay illustrates a close interrelation between journals in the "Medicine," "Medical," and "Clinical" domains and those in "Health," "Nursing," and "Medicine." Frequently recurring keywords in this research landscape include DES coronary artery disease, percutaneous coronary intervention, implantation, and restenosis. This study presents a comprehensive panorama encompassing countries, research institutions, journals, keyword distributions, and contributions within the realm of DES therapy for CAD. By highlighting keywords exhibiting recent surges in frequency, we elucidate current research hotspots and frontiers, thereby furnishing novel insights to guide future researchers in this evolving field.

Effect of antecedent statin usage on conduction disturbances and arrhythmias after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Post-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) conduction disturbances and atrial fibrillation (AF) are associated with markedly worse short- and long-term prognosis. Statins have multiple pleotropic effects that may be beneficial in mitigating the risk of these procedural complications as has been found for various other cardiac procedures and surgeries.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively collected on consecutive patients in the Yale New Haven Health TAVR Registry who did not have a prior pacemaker, had at least 1 pre- and post-TAVR electrocardiogram, and did not have a change to their statin regimen during the index hospitalization. The primary endpoint was the composite of new pacemaker placement, new AF, and other new conduction disturbances evaluated at 7 days post-TAVR.

RESULTS

Between, July 2012 and August 2019, 612 patients met inclusion criteria. Of these, 162 patients were not on antecedent statins, and 450 were (28 low-intensity, 225 moderate-intensity, and 197 high-intensity). After 1:1 propensity matching, 99 patients on moderate-/high-intensity statins were matched to 99 patients not on antecedent statins. At 7 days, there was no significant difference in the occurrence of the primary endpoint (57 % statin users vs 46 % non-statin users; p = 0.16). There was a trend toward increased conduction disturbances 7 days after TAVR in statin users (56 % vs 42 %; p = 0.07), but rates of AF (5 % vs 8 %; p = 0.39) and pacemaker placement (9 % vs 15 %; p = 0.20) were numerically lower in statin users. There was no significant difference in persistent conduction disturbances (21 % vs 18 %; p = 0.59).

CONCLUSIONS

Statins do not appear to reduce the risk of post-TAVR AF or conduction abnormalities in this small retrospective study.

Positive blood pressure response may predict the recovery of renal function after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

OBJECTIVE

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) may ameliorate renal function and increase blood pressure (BP). We aimed to investigate the association between increased BP and improved renal function (IRF) after TAVI.

METHODS

A total of 176 patients who had undergone TAVI were evaluated retrospectively. BP records that were taken 24 h before and 72 h after TAVI were reviewed. Pre-procedural, post-procedural 48 h, and the first month estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels were noted. IRF was accepted as a ≥ 10% increase in eGFR. The predictors of acute kidney injury (AKI) development at 48 h and IRF at 1 month were investigated. The association between mortality and BP response was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients were included in this study after exclusion as defined in the methodology. Mean age was 78.1 ± 7,1 and 51.6% were female. AKI occurred in 25.5% of patients and baseline eGFR and male gender were found as independent predictors for AKI development. IRF was observed in 16% at 48 h and 31.8% of patients at 1-month follow-up. Positive BP response was seen in 42% of patients. Pre-procedural chronic kidney disease, positive BP response, and an early increase in eGFR emerged as independent predictors of IRF at the first month. The patients with positive BP response were found to have decreased mortality at 710 days follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Positive BP response after TAVI is related to improved survival and renal functions. The beneficial effect of TAVI on renal function may be precisely evaluated at 1st month rather than 48 h.

Early and mid-term outcomes after aortic valve replacement using a novel tissue bioprosthesis: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

While current data show a clear trend towards the use of bioprosthetic valves during aortic valve replacement (AVR), durability of bioprosthetic valves remains the most important concern. We conducted a 1st systematic review of all available evidence that analysed early and mid-term outcomes after AVR using the Inspiris RESILIA™ bioprosthesis.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify all relevant studies evaluating early and mid-term outcomes after AVR using the Inspiris RESILIA bioprosthesis and including at least 20 patients with no restriction on the publication date. Subgroup meta-analysis was performed to compare Inspiris RESILIA and PERIMOUNT Magna Ease bioprosthesis and to pool the early postoperative mortality and stroke rates.

RESULTS

A total of 416 studies were identified, of which 15 studies met the eligibility criteria. The studies included a total of 3202 patients with an average follow-up of up to 5.3 years. The average age of patients across the studies was 52.2-75.1 years. Isolated AVR was performed in 39.0-86.4% of patients. In-hospital or 30-day postoperative mortality was 0-2.8%. At the mid-term follow-up, freedom from all-cause mortality was up to 85.4%. Among studies with mid-term follow-up, trace/mild paravalvular leak was detected in 0-3.0%, while major paravalvular leak was found only in up to 2.0% of patients. No statistically significant differences in terms of mortality (P = 0.98, odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 0.36-2.83) and stroke (P = 0.98, odds ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.38-2.73) between the Inspiris RESILIA bioprosthesis and PERIMOUNT Magna Ease bioprosthesis were observed in the subgroup meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Mid-term data on the safety and haemodynamic performance of the novel aortic bioprosthesis are encouraging. Further comparative studies with other bioprostheses and longer follow-up are still required to endorse durability and safety of the novel bioprosthesis.

Infective Endocarditis After Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Scarce data are available comparing infective endocarditis (IE) following surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This study aimed to compare the clinical presentation, microbiological profile, management, and outcomes of IE after SAVR versus TAVR.

METHODS

Data were collected from the "Infectious Endocarditis after TAVR International" (enrollment from 2005 to 2020) and the "International Collaboration on Endocarditis" (enrollment from 2000 to 2012) registries. Only patients with an IE affecting the aortic valve prosthesis were included. A 1:1 paired matching approach was used to compare patients with TAVR and SAVR.

RESULTS

A total of 1688 patients were included. Of them, 602 (35.7%) had a surgical bioprosthesis (SB), 666 (39.5%) a mechanical prosthesis, 70 (4.2%) a homograft, and 350 (20.7%) a transcatheter heart valve. In the SAVR versus TAVR matched population, the rate of new moderate or severe aortic regurgitation was higher in the SB group (43.4% vs 13.5%; P < .001), and fewer vegetations were diagnosed in the SB group (62.5% vs 82%; P < .001). Patients with an SB had a higher rate of perivalvular extension (47.9% vs 27%; P < .001) and Staphylococcus aureus was less common in this group (13.4% vs 22%; P = .033). Despite a higher rate of surgery in patients with SB (44.4% vs 27.3%; P < .001), 1-year mortality was similar (SB: 46.5%; TAVR: 44.8%; log-rank P = .697).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical presentation, type of causative microorganism, and treatment differed between patients with an IE located on SB compared with TAVR. Despite these differences, both groups exhibited high and similar mortality at 1-year follow-up.

Percutaneous transaxillary approach through the first segment of the axillary artery for the Impella-supported PCI Versus TAVR

Percutaneous transaxillary approach (PTAX) through the first segment of the axillary artery is not widely recognized as a safe method. Furthermore, PTAX has never been directly compared between Impella-supported percutaneous coronary interventions (Impella-PCI) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of PTAX through the first axillary segment in Impella-PCI versus TAVR. In cases where standard imaging guidance was insufficient, a technique involving puncturing the axillary artery "on-the-balloon" was employed. The endpoints were bleeding and vascular complications, as defined by BARC and VARC-3 criteria. PTAX was successfully performed in all 46 attempted cases: 23 for Impella-PCI and 23 for TAVR. Strict adherence to BARC and VARC-3 criteria led to the frequent identification of major bleeding (57%) and a moderately frequent diagnosis of vascular complications (17%). These incidences were primarily based on post-procedural hemoglobin reduction (> 3 g/dl) but not overt bleeding. The Impella group exhibited a higher rate of BARC 3b bleeding due to a greater hemoglobin decline resulting from the prolonged implant duration and PCI itself. Left axillary access was linked to smaller blood loss. Bleeding and vascular complications, as per BARC and VARC-3 definitions, did not affect short-term prognosis, with only 3 Impella patients succumbing to heart failure unrelated to the procedures during one-month follow-up period.

A Novel Technique for Performing Transfemoral Transcatheter Self-Expanding Aortic Valve Replacement With No Contrast Which Minimizes Acute Kidney Injury

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) treats severe aortic stenosis. However, patients with limited renal function may be ineligible for contrast use during valve deployment. We evaluate TAVR via transfemoral approach using 2-wire technique and no contrast injection. Primary endpoints are acute kidney injury and procedural success. Safety analysis includes mortality, stroke, myocardial infarction, coronary obstruction, and more. Forty-six patients were included; most with preserved ejection fraction. Baseline creatinine was 1.63 ± 0.68 and post-TAVR was significantly better (1.47 ± 0.64, P < 0.01). No statistical difference existed between creatinine at baseline and 30 days. After TAVR, 91% had no paravalvular leak (PVL). Peak-velocity post-TAVR was 1.32 ± 0.33 and mean-gradient was 7 ± 4. No valve repositioning during deployment was required. No mortality at 30 days without incidence of stroke, myocardial infarction or coronary obstruction. One patient had retroperitoneal bleeding requiring transfusion. The noncontrast technique for self-expanding valve deployment is feasible and safe in patients who cannot tolerate contrast.

A simply calculated nutritional index provides clinical implications in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is associated with adverse outcomes in patients with aortic stenosis. The Triglycerides × Total Cholesterol × Body Weight Index (TCBI) is a simple scoring model to evaluate the status of nutrition. However, the prognostic relevance of this index in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the association of the TCBI with clinical outcomes in patients undergoing TAVR.

METHODS

A total of 1377 patients undergoing TAVR were evaluated in this study. The TCBI was calculated by the formula; triglyceride (mg/dL) × total cholesterol (mg/dL) × body weight (kg)/1000. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality within 3 years.

RESULTS

Patients with a low TCBI, based on a cut-off value of 985.3, were more likely to have elevated right atrial pressure (p = 0.04), elevated right ventricular pressure (p < 0.01), right ventricular systolic dysfunction (p < 0.01), tricuspid regurgitation ≥ moderate (p < 0.01). Patients with a low TCBI had a higher cumulative 3-year all-cause (42.3% vs. 31.6%, p < 0.01; adjusted HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.05-1.77, p = 0.02) and non-cardiovascular mortality (15.5% vs. 9.1%, p < 0.01; adjusted HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.22-3.13, p < 0.01) compared to those with a high TCBI. Adding a low TCBI to EuroSCORE II improved the predictive value for 3-year all-cause mortality (net reclassification improvement, 0.179, p < 0.01; integrated discrimination improvement, 0.005, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Patients with a low TCBI were more likely to have right-sided heart overload and exhibited an increased risk of 3-year mortality. The TCBI may provide additional information for risk stratification in patients undergoing TAVR.

Impact of osteoporotic risk in women undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Low body weight and advanced age are reported to be among the best predictors of osteoporosis, and osteoporosis self-assessment tool (OST) values are calculated using a simple formula to identify postmenopausal women at increased risk of osteoporosis. In our recent study, we demonstrated an association between fractures and poor outcomes in postmenopausal women following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). In this study, we aimed to investigate the osteoporotic risk in women with severe aortic stenosis and determined whether an OST could predict all-cause mortality following TAVR. The study population comprised 619 women who underwent TAVR. Compared to a quarter of patients with diagnosis of osteoporosis, 92.4% of participants were at high risk of osteoporosis based on OST criteria. When divided into tertiles based on OST values, patients in tertile 1 (lowest OST) displayed increased frailty, a higher incidence of multiple fractures, and greater Society of Thoracic Surgeons scores. Estimated all-cause mortality survival rates 3 years post-TAVR were 84.2 ± 3.0%, 89.5 ± 2.6%, and 96.9 ± 1.7% for OST tertiles 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that the OST tertile 3 was associated with decreased risk of all-cause mortality compared with OST tertile 1 as the referent. Notably, a history of osteoporosis was not associated with all-cause mortality. Patients with high osteoporotic risk are highly prevalent among those with aortic stenosis according to the OST criteria. OST value is a useful marker for predicting all-cause mortality in patients undergoing TAVR.

Frequency, Predictors, and Clinical Impact of Valvular and Perivalvular Thrombus After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Subclinical aortic valve complex (valvular and perivalvular) thrombus is not rare after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The risk factors and clinical implications of these findings remain uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to evaluate the frequency, predictors, and clinical outcome of aortic valve complex thrombus after TAVR.

METHODS

In the ADAPT-TAVR (Anticoagulation Versus Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for Prevention of Leaflet Thrombosis and Cerebral Embolization After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) trial comparing edoxaban vs dual antiplatelet therapy in TAVR patients without an indication for chronic anticoagulation, the frequency of valvular (subclinical leaflet thrombus) and perivalvular (supravalvular, subvalvular, and sinus of Valsalva) thrombus was evaluated by 4-dimensional computed tomography at 6 months. The association of these phenomena with new cerebral thromboembolism on brain magnetic resonance imaging, neurologic and neurocognitive dysfunction, and clinical outcomes was assessed.

RESULTS

Among 211 patients with 6-month computed tomography evaluations, 91 patients (43.1%) had thrombus at any aortic valve complex, 30 (14.2%) patients had leaflet thrombus, and 78 (37.0%) patients had perivalvular thrombus. A small maximum diameter of the stent at the valve level and low body surface area were independent predictors of aortic valve complex and perivalvular thrombus, and decreased renal function was an independent predictor of leaflet thrombus. No significant differences were observed in new cerebral lesions, neurologic or neurocognitive functions, or clinical outcomes among patients with or without valvular or perivalvular thrombus.

CONCLUSIONS

Subclinical aortic valve complex (valvular and perivalvular) thrombus was common in patients who had undergone successful TAVR. However, these imaging phenomena were not associated with new cerebral thromboembolism, neurologic or neurocognitive dysfunction, or adverse clinical outcomes. (Anticoagulation Versus Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for Prevention of Leaflet Thrombosis and Cerebral Embolization After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement [ADAPT-TAVR]; NCT03284827).

Balloon- vs Self-Expanding Transcatheter Valves for Failed Small Surgical Aortic Bioprostheses: 1-Year Results of the LYTEN Trial

BACKGROUND

Data comparing valve systems in the valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement (ViV-TAVR) field have been obtained from retrospective studies.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to compare the 1-year hemodynamic performance and clinical outcomes between balloon-expandable valves (BEV) SAPIEN 3/ULTRA (Edwards Lifesciences) and self-expanding valves (SEV) Evolut R/PRO/PRO+ (Medtronic) in ViV-TAVR.

METHODS

Patients with a failed small (≤23 mm) surgical valve undergoing ViV-TAVR were randomized to receive a SEV or a BEV. Patients had a clinical and valve hemodynamic (Doppler echocardiography) evaluation at 1-year follow-up. Study outcomes were defined according to VARC-2/VARC-3 criteria. Intended performance of the valve was defined as mean gradient <20 mm Hg, peak velocity <3 m/s, Doppler velocity index ≥0.25 and less than moderate AR.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients underwent ViV-TAVR (46 BEV, 52 SEV). At 1-year follow-up, patients receiving a SEV had a lower mean transaortic gradient (22 ± 8 mm Hg BEV vs 14 ± 7 mm Hg SEV; P < 0.001), and a higher rate of intended valve performance (BEV: 30%, SEV:76%; P < 0.001). There were no cases of greater than mild aortic regurgitation. There were no differences in functional status (NYHA functional class >II, BEV: 7.3%, SEV: 4.1%; P = 0.505) or quality of life (Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire, BEV: 77.9 ± 21.2, SEV: 81.8 ± 14.8; P = 0.334). No differences in all-cause mortality (BEV: 6.5%, SEV: 3.8; P = 0.495), heart failure hospitalization (BEV: 6.5%, SEV: 1.9%; P = 0.214), stroke (BEV: 0%, SEV: 1.9%; P = 0.369), myocardial infarction (BEV: 0%, SEV: 1.9%; P = 0.347), or pacemaker implantation (BEV: 2.2%, SEV: 1.9%; P = 0.898) were found.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who underwent ViV-TAVR for failed small aortic bioprostheses, those receiving a SEV exhibited a better valve hemodynamic profile at 1-year follow-up. There were no differences between SEV and BEV regarding functional status, quality of life, or clinical outcomes.

Minimally Invasive Trans-Axillary versus Full Sternotomy Mitral Valve Repair: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis on Mid-Term Outcomes

Background and Objectives: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery is an established approach for the treatment of heart valve pathologies and is associated with excellent technical and early postoperative outcomes. Data from medium- and long-term longitudinal evaluation of patients who underwent mitral valve repair (MVr) through transaxillary approach (TAxA) are still lacking. The aim of this study is to investigate mid-term results in patients who underwent TAxA MVr. Materials and Methods: Prospectively collected data of patients who underwent first-time MVr for MV regurgitation between 2017 and 2022, were reviewed. A total of 308 patients received TAxA, while in 220 cases, traditional full sternotomy (FS) was performed. Concomitant aortic and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures, infective endocarditis or urgent operations were excluded. A propensity match (PS) analysis was used to overcome preoperative differences between the populations. Follow-up data were retrieved from outpatients' clinic, telephone calls and municipal administration records. Results: After PS-matching, two well-balanced cohorts of 171 patients were analysed. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 0.6% in both cohorts. No statistical difference in postoperative complications was reported. TAxA cohort experienced earlier postoperative extubation (p < 0.001) with a higher rate of extubation performed in the operating theatre (p < 0.001), shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay (p < 0.001), and reduced hospitalization with 51% of patients discharged home (p < 0.001). Estimated survival at 5 years was 98.8% in TAxA vs. 93.6% in FS cohort (Log rank p = 0.15). The cumulative incidence of reoperation was 2.6% and 4.4% at 5 years, respectively, in TAxA and FS cohorts (Gray test p = 0.49). Conclusions: TAxA approach for MVr was associated with low rates of in-hospital mortality and major postoperative complications being furthermore associated with shorter mechanical ventilation time, shorter ICU stay and reduced hospitalization with a higher rate of patients able to be discharged home. At mid-term, TAxA was associated with excellent survival and low rate of MV reoperation.

Prognostic impact of cardiac damage staging classification in each aortic stenosis subtype undergoing TAVI

BACKGROUND

The prognostic value of cardiac damage staging classifications across the haemodynamic spectrum of severe aortic stenosis (AS) remains unknown.

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of cardiac damage staging classifications in patients with high-gradient AS (HG-AS) and low-gradient AS (LG-AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

In a prospective TAVI registry, five-year mortality was evaluated for early stages of cardiac damage (stage 0, 1, or 2) and advanced stages of cardiac damage (stage 3 or 4) in patients with HG-AS, classical low-flow (LF) LG-AS, LF LG-AS with preserved ejection fraction (pEF), and normal-flow (NF) LG-AS.

RESULTS

Among 2,090 patients undergoing TAVI, 1,045 patients had HG-AS, 337 patients had classical LF LG-AS, 394 patients had LF LG-AS with pEF, and 314 patients had NF LG-AS. The majority of patients with classical LF LG-AS exhibited advanced cardiac damage (73.6%), followed by LF LG-AS with pEF (55.6%), NF LG-AS (51.6%), and HG-AS (50.6%). Patients with advanced stage cardiac damage had significantly higher mortality after TAVI than those with early stage cardiac damage in all subtypes of AS (adjusted hazard ratio [HRadjusted] 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34-2.06 for HG-AS; HRadjusted 1.49, 95% CI: 1.02-2.16 for classical LF LG-AS; HRadjusted 1.69, 95% CI: 1.22-2.35 for LF LG-AS with pEF; and HRadjusted 1.52, 95% CI: 1.04-2.32 for NF LG-AS).

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac damage staging classifications stratified mortality after TAVI irrespective of AS subtype.

Echocardiographic Versus Invasive Aortic Valve Gradients in Different Clinical Scenarios

BACKGROUND

The role of echocardiography in deriving transvalvular mean gradients from transaortic velocities in aortic stenosis (AS) and in structural valve degeneration (SVD) is well established. However, reports following surgical aortic valve replacement, post-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and valve-in-valve-TAVR (ViV-TAVR) have cautioned against the use of echocardiography-derived mean gradients to assess normal functioning bioprosthesis due to discrepancy compared with invasive measures in a phenomenon called discordance.

METHODS

In a multicenter study, intraprocedural echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients in AS, SVD, post-native TAVR, and post-ViV-TAVR were compared, when obtained concomitantly, and discharge echocardiographic gradients were recorded. Absolute discordance (intraprocedural echocardiographic - invasive mean gradient) and percent discordance (intraprocedural echocardiographic - invasive mean gradient/echocardiographic mean gradient) were calculated. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to determine variables independently associated with elevated postprocedure invasive gradients ≥20 mm Hg, absolute discordance >10 mm Hg, and discharge echocardiographic mean gradient ≥20 mm Hg.

RESULTS

A total of 5,027 patients were included in the registry: 4,725 native TAVR and 302 ViV-TAVR. Intraprocedural concomitant echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients were obtained pre-TAVR in AS (n = 2,418), pre-ViV-TAVR in SVD (n = 101), in post-ViV-TAVR (n = 77), and in post-TAVR (n = 823). Echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients demonstrated strong correlation (r = 0.69) and agreement (bias, 0.11; 95% CI, -0.4-0.62) in AS, moderate correlation (r = 0.56) and agreement (bias, 1.08; 95% CI, -2.53 to 4.59) in SVD, moderate correlation (r = 0.61) and weak agreement (bias, 6.47; 95% CI, 5.08-7.85) post-ViV-TAVR, and weak correlation (r = 0.18) and agreement (bias, 3.41; 95% CI, 3.16-3.65) post-TAVR. Absolute discordance occurs primarily in ViV-TVR and is not explained by sinotubular junction size and increases with increasing echocardiographic mean gradient. Percent discordance in AS and SVD (1.3% and 4%, respectively) was lower compared with post-TAVR/ViV-TAVR (66.7% and 100%, respectively). Compared with self-expanding valves, balloon expanding valves were independently associated with elevated discharge echocardiographic but lower invasive mean gradient (odds ratio = 3.411, 95% CI, 1.482-7.852, P = .004; vs odds ratio = 0.308, 95% CI, 0.130-0.731, P = .008, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Post-TAVR/ViV-TAVR, echocardiography is discordant from invasive mean gradients, and absolute discordance increases with increasing echocardiographic mean gradient and is not explained by sinotubular junction size. Percent discordance is significantly higher post-TAVR/ViV-TAVR than in AS and SVD. Post-TAVR/ViV-TAVR, poor correlation and wide limits of agreement suggest echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients may not be used interchangeably and a high residual echocardiographic mean gradient should be confirmed invasively before considering any additional procedure to "correct" the gradient. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement valve types have variable impact on echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients.

Bioprosthetic leaflet thrombosis and reduced leaflet motion after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Leaflet thrombosis and reduced leaflet motion have become a concern with the expanding use of transcatheter aortic valve replacement in lower-risk patients.

AIMS

To assess the proportions, predictors and clinical impact of leaflet thrombosis and reduced leaflet motion after transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of studies assessing the proportions of and/or clinical outcomes according to the presence of leaflet thrombosis after transcatheter aortic valve replacement identified with computed tomography and/or echocardiography.

RESULTS

Fifty-three studies, representing 25,258 patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement, were considered. The proportion of leaflet thrombosis was 5.2% overall, and was higher in computed tomography versus echocardiography (16.4% vs. 1.1%, respectively); reduced leaflet motion was identified in 11% of patients with four-dimensional computed tomography. Intra-annular bioprostheses were associated with a higher proportion of leaflet thrombosis, whereas chronic oral anticoagulation was protective for leaflet thrombosis in both computed tomography and echocardiographic studies (9.7% vs. 17.5%; relative risk [RR]: 0.51, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.37-0.71 and 0.9% vs. 2.7%; RR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.06-0.79, respectively) and for reduced leaflet motion (2.5% vs. 12.4%; RR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.13-0.76). Leaflet thrombosis was not associated with an increased risk of death, but with a higher risk of stroke in computed tomography studies (2.8% vs. 2.4%; RR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.05-2.55), a difference more pronounced when considering reduced leaflet motion (3.5% vs. 1.7%; RR: 2.39, 95% CI: 0.63-8.34).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of leaflet thrombosis is highly variable according to the screening approach, the type of valve and the use of oral anticoagulation. The occurrence of cerebral events is increased when leaflet thrombosis and/or reduced leaflet motion are diagnosed, but leaflet thrombosis has no impact on survival.

First results from the ACURATE Prime XL human feasibility study

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

This prospective, open-label, single-arm study evaluated transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with severe aortic stenosis with ACURATE Prime XL, an iteration of the ACURATE neo2 device designed with improved radial force and adaptations for compatibility with a larger annulus diameter (≥ 26.5 mm and ≤ 29 mm based on pre-procedure diagnostic imaging).

METHODS

The composite primary device success endpoint was based on Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-2 criteria. The primary safety endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality and all stroke at 30 days. Aortic valve (AV) performance, including mean AV gradient, AV area, and grade of paravalvular leak (PVL), was assessed by an independent core laboratory.

RESULTS

13 male patients were enrolled at 3 Australian centers (mean age: 83.1 years; 10 of 13 were considered high/extreme operative risk). 61.5 % of patients met the primary device success endpoint. At 30 days, no patients experienced death or stroke; one patient received a permanent pacemaker. Mean AV gradient improved from baseline (42.7 ± 11.0 mmHg) to discharge (7.7 ± 2.5 mmHg) and through 30 days (7.2 ± 2.3 mmHg). Mean AV area was 0.8 ± 0.1 cm2 at baseline, 1.9 ± 0.3 cm2 at discharge, and 1.7 ± 0.3 cm2 at 30 days. Per core-laboratory adjudication, no patient had moderate or severe PVL at 30 days; 91.7 % had no/trace PVL and 8.3 % had mild PVL.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this first-in-human feasibility study of the ACURATE Prime XL valve, there were no safety concerns, and no deaths or strokes within 30 days. Valve hemodynamics were favorable, and no patient had >mild PVL.

Angina in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of patients with angina undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe aortic stenosis.

METHODS

A total of 1687 consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR at our center were included and classified according to patient-reported angina symptoms prior to the TAVR procedure. Baseline, procedural and follow-up data were collected in a dedicated database.

RESULTS

A total of 497 patients (29%) had angina prior to the TAVR procedure. Patients with angina at baseline showed a worse New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class (NYHA class> II: 69% vs 63%; P=.017), a higher rate of coronary artery disease (74% vs 56%; P <.001), and a lower rate of complete revascularization (70% vs 79%; P <.001). Angina at baseline had no impact on all-cause mortality (HR, 1.02; 95%CI, 0.71-1.48; P=.898) and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.2; 95%CI, 0.69-2.11; P=.517) at 1 year. However, persistent angina at 30 days post-TAVR was associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR, 4.86; 95%CI, 1.71-13.8; P=.003) and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 20.7; 95%CI, 3.50-122.6; P=.001) at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

More than one-fourth of patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR had angina prior to the procedure. Angina at baseline did not appear to be a sign of a more advanced valvular disease and had no prognostic impact; however, persistent angina at 30 days post-TAVR was associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Incidence of Prosthesis-Patient Mismatch in Valve-in-Valve with a Supra-Annular Valve

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for a degenerated surgical bioprosthesis (valve-in-valve [ViV]) has become an established procedure. Elevated gradients and patient-prosthesis mismatch (PPM) have previously been reported in mixed TAVR cohorts. We analyzed our single-center experience using the third-generation self-expanding Medtronic Evolut R prosthesis, with an emphasis on the incidence and outcomes of PPM.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from our TAVR database. Intraprocedural and intrahospital outcomes are reported.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients underwent ViV-TAVR with the Evolut R prosthesis. Mean age was 75.5 ± 9.5 years, 64% were males. The mean log EuroScore was 21.6 ± 15.7%. The mean time between initial surgical valve implantation and ViV-TAVR was 8.8 ± 3.2 years. The mean true internal diameter of the implanted surgical valves was 20.9 ± 2.2 mm. Post-AVR, 60% had no PPM, 34% had moderate PPM, and 6% had severe PPM. After ViV-TAVR, 33% had no PPM, 29% had moderate, and 39% had severe PPM. After implantation, the mean transvalvular gradient was reduced significantly from 36.4 ± 15.2 to 15.5 ± 9.1 mm Hg (p < 0.001). No patient had more than mild aortic regurgitation after ViV-TAVR. No conversion to surgery was necessary. Estimated Kaplan-Meier survival at 1 year for all patients was 87.4%. One-year survival showed no significant difference according to post-ViV PPM groups (p = 0.356).

CONCLUSION

ViV-TAVR using a supra-annular valve resulted in low procedural and in-hospital complication rates. However, moderate or severe PPM was common, with no influence on short-term survival. PPM may not be a suitable factor to predict survival after ViV-TAVR.

Left atrial appendage occlusion in an older population cohort

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is a major risk factor for stroke, with an incidence rate of 4-5% per year. The use of DOACs is recommended for specific patient populations however the risk of bleeding commonly precludes their use. Left atrial appendage occlusion is a relatively novel procedure recommended for such patients. We set out to analyse the initial success and safety of this procedure in a single site.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included in the study with an average age of 81 years. Seventy percent (n = 14) were male. Ninety percent (n = 18) had a history of major bleeding, an absolute contraindication to anticoagulation. The mean CHADS2VaSc and HASBLED scores were 4.75 and 3.7, respectively. The technical success rate was 95% comparable with existing data. The procedural success rate in our study was 80%. The most frequent complication was cardiac tamponade, occurring in 10% of cases.

CONCLUSION

We report lower technical success and procedural success rates in an older population cohort than historically studied, 90% of whom had an absolute contraindication to oral anticoagulation, with higher CHADS2VaSc and HASBLED scores than commonly studied.

Left ventricular myocardial work for the prediction of postoperative outcomes in patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis

Chronic elevation of left ventricular (LV) afterload contributes to adverse LV remodeling and myocardial impairment in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Incorporating LV afterload into global longitudinal strain (GLS) analysis, myocardial work facilitates early detection of LV dysfunction. The present study was to evaluate myocardial work in BAV patients with severe AS undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and to evaluate its prognostic impact on early postoperative outcomes. Between January 2021 and March 2022, BAV patients with severe AS scheduled for SAVR were included and underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography. Quantification of LV myocardial work was performed to obtain LV global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), and global work efficiency (GWE). Clinical outcome was defined as a composite of major cardiovascular events including mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, acute kidney injury, low cardiac output syndrome and vascular complications during hospitalization or within 30 days after operation. Among 103 BAV patients with severe AS undergoing SAVR (mean age of 65 ± 9 years, 57.3% male), 22 experienced postoperative major cardiovascular events. BAV patients with major cardiovascular events demonstrated lower LV GWI (P < 0.001) and GCW (P = 0.002) along with elder age (P = 0.030), decreased LVGLS (P = 0.026) and right ventricular longitudinal strain (P = 0.019), and higher prevalence of abnormal average E/e' ratio (P = 0.029) than those without major events. Decreased LV GWI and GCW was independently associated with the occurrence of major cardiovascular events (P < 0.01 for adjusted OR). Multivariable logistic regression model including LV GWI demonstrated superior power than the model including LVGLS and yielded best discrimination for BAV patients with and without major cardiovascular events during early postoperative period. Echocardiography-based LV myocardial work overcomes the limitations of LVGLS and presents as a promising novel index for the early detection of functional myocardial damage and the optimization of intervention timing among BAV patients with severe AS.

Hemodynamics and Conduction Disturbance After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With SAPIEN3 Ultra Versus SAPIEN3: The HomoSAPIEN 2 Study

The optimal percent oversizing (%OS) using the SAPIEN3 Ultra (S3U) weighing the incidence of paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) ≥ mild against the risk of conduction disturbance (CD) is not known. This study sought to define an optimal extent of the annulus area %OS suitable for transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the S3U compared with the SAPIEN3 (S3). A total of 350 patients with the S3U were compared with 606 patients with the S3. Patients were categorized depending on the degree of %OS. PVR ≥ mild was observed in 8.9% of patients with the S3U and in 21.8% of those with the S3 (p <0.001). The S3U demonstrated a sustainably lower incidence of PVR ≥ mild than the S3 in any extent of %OS. There was an inverse proportional relation between the extent of %OS and frequency of PVR ≥ mild in the S3, whereas the S3U group provided little change. The incidences of PVR ≥ mild were steady >5%OS in the S3 (5% to 10%OS: 13.3%, and >10%OS: 12.1%) and >0%OS in the S3U (0% to 5%OS: 5.9%, 5% to 10%OS: 6.0%, and >10%OS: 6.1%). An increasing %OS was independently associated with the occurrence of CD (<0%OS: 9.8%, 0% to 5%OS: 13.1%, 5% to 10%OS: 16.6%, and >10%OS: 19.2%, p = 0.012). The incidence of PVR ≥ mild and/or CD was the lowest (10.1%) in the 0% to 5%OS in patients with the S3U. In conclusion, the HomoSAPIEN2 study suggests that the S3U tolerates a lesser degree of %OS for mitigating PVR ≥ mild than the S3. Minimal %OS, ranging from 0% to 5%, may be optimal for the S3U with balancing the risk of PVR and CD. Trial Identifier: UMIN000040413/URL: https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000046115.

Hemostatic Profiles of Patients Who Underwent Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Guidelines for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) antithrombotic prophylaxis are extrapolated predominantly from percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) data. Here, we examined temporal coagulation changes occurring in the early perioperative period to determine the pathobiologic validity of this supposition. This was a prospective observational study of consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR (n = 27), PCI (n = 12), or surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping (n = 12). Blood samples were taken at 4 time points: T1 (baseline), after general anesthesia or sedation; T2, after heparin administration; T3, at the end of the procedure; and T4, 6 hours after the procedure. The samples were assessed concurrently using standard laboratory coagulation tests and viscoelastic tests of whole blood clotting, including the latest generation thromboelastometry (ROTEM sigma) and thromboelastometry (TEG 6s). Patients in the TAVR cohort were older and a had lower baseline hemoglobin level than patients in the PCI and SAVR cohorts. The baseline platelet function was similar between the TAVR and PCI cohorts and impaired in the SAVR cohort Figure S1. The baseline hemostatic measures were comparable among cohorts. Regarding the per-patient change from baseline, the TAVR cohort showed an overall more prothrombotic state than the other cohorts, with the most marked differences from the SAVR cohort after intraoperative heparin administration and from the PCI cohorts 6 hours after the procedure. In addition, the ROTEM and TEG parameters were well correlated but not interchangeable. In conclusion, patients who underwent TAVR have a more prothrombotic hemostatic profile than PCI and SAVR patients. These findings question the current guidelines that extrapolate antithrombotic regimens from PCI to TAVR settings.

Relevance of Motion Artifacts in Planning Computed Tomography on Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Background

Motion artifacts in planning computed tomography (CT) for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can potentially skew measurements required for procedural planning. Whether such artifacts may affect safety or efficacy has not been studied.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 852 consecutive patients (mean age, 82 years; 47% women) undergoing TAVI-planning CT at a tertiary care center. Two independent observers divided CTs according to the presence of motion artifacts at the annulus level (Motion vs. Normal group). Endpoints included surrogate markers for inappropriate valve selection: annular rupture, valve embolization or misplacement, need for a new permanent pacemaker, paravalvular leak (PVL), postprocedural transvalvular gradient, all-cause death.

Results

Forty-six (5.4%) patients presented motion artifacts on TAVI-planning CT (Motion group). These patients had more preexisting heart failure, moderate-severe mitral regurgitation, and atrial fibrillation. Interobserver variability of annular measurement (Normal vs. Motion group) did not differ for mean annular diameter but was significantly different for perimeter and area. Presence of motion artifacts on planning CT did not affect the prevalence of PVL (≥moderate PVL 0% vs. 2.5% p = 0.5), mean transvalvular gradient (6±3 mmHg vs 7±5 mmHg, p = 0.1), or the need for additional valve implantation (0% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.6). One annular rupture occurred (Normal group). Pacemaker implantation, procedural duration, hospital stay, 30-day outcomes, and all-cause mortality did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

Motion artifacts on planning CT were found in about 5% of patients. Measurements for valve selection were possible without the need for repeat CT, with mean diameter-derived annulus measurement being the most accurate. Motion artifacts were not associated with worse outcomes.

Health-related quality of life following TAVI or cardiac surgery in patients at intermediate and low risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent randomised trials have shown that clinical outcomes with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are non-inferior to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis at intermediate to low risk. Health-related quality of life (HrQoL) outcomes in these patient groups remain uncertain. A systematic search of the literature was conducted that included nine trials and 11,295 patients. Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), a heart-failure-specific measure and EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) (a generic health status tool) changes were the primary outcomes. New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification was the secondary outcome. Improvement in KCCQ scores was greater with TAVI (mean difference (MD)=13.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 11.67-15.46, p<0.001) at 1 month, as was the improvement in EQ-5D (MD=0.07, 95% CI 0.05-0.08, p<0.001). There was no difference in KCCQ (MD=1.05, 95% CI -0.11 to 2.21, p=0.08) or EQ-5D (MD=-0.01, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.01), p=0.37) at 12 months. NYHA functional class 3/4 was lower in patients undergoing TAVI at 1 month (MD=0.51, 95% CI 0.34-0.78, p=0.002), but there was no difference at 12 months (MD=1.10; 95% CI 0.87-1.38, p=0.43). Overall, TAVI offers early benefit in HRQoL outcomes compared with SAVR, but they are equivalent at 12 months.

Impact of right ventricular-pulmonary arterial coupling on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

AIMS

The interplay between pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right ventricular (RV) function is reflected in an index of RV function to pulmonary artery (PA) systolic pressure (PASP). The present study aimed to assess the importance of RV-PA coupling on clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

In a prospective TAVI registry, clinical outcomes of TAVI patients with RV dysfunction or PH were stratified according to coupling or uncoupling of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to PASP, and compared to those of patients with normal RV function and absence of PH. The median TAPSE/PASP ratio was used to differentiate uncoupling (>0.39) from coupling (<0.39). Among 404 TAVI patients, 201 patients (49.8 %) had RVD or PH at baseline: 174 patients had RV-PA uncoupling, and 27 had coupling at baseline. RV-PA hemodynamics normalized in 55.6 % of patients with RV-PA coupling and in 28.2 % of patients with RV-PA uncoupling, and deteriorated in 33.3 % of patients with RV-PA coupling and in 17.8 % of patients with no RVD, respectively, at discharge. Patients with RV-PA uncoupling after TAVI showed a trend towards an increased risk of cardiovascular death at 1 year as compared to patients with normal RV-function (HRadjusted 2.06, 95 % CI 0.97-4.37).

CONCLUSION

After TAVI, RV-PA coupling changed in a significant proportion of patients and is a potentially important metric for risk stratification of TAVI patients with RVD or PH. TWEET: "Patients with right ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension are at increased risk of death after TAVI. Integrated right ventricular to pulmonary artery hemodynamics change after TAVI in a significant proportion of patients and is instrumental to refine risk stratification."

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov: NCT01368250.

Association between High Bleeding Risk and 2-Year Mortality in Patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia

AIM

Patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) have a high bleeding risk (HBR) and mortality rate. The 2-year life expectancy is an important factor in deciding the appropriate treatment strategy. This study aimed to assess the influence of HBR on the prognosis of patients with CLTI.

METHODS

A total of 259 patients with CLTI who underwent endovascular therapy (EVT) (mean age, 76.2 years; male, 62.9%) between January 2018 and December 2019 were evaluated. The Academic Research Consortium for HBR (ARC-HBR) criteria were applied to each patient, and the ARC-HBR scores were calculated. The cut-off score for predicting all-cause mortality within two years was derived using a survival classification and regression tree (CART) model. Causes of death and the association between ARC-HBR scores and major bleeding events within two years were also investigated.

RESULTS

Based on the CART model, patients were divided into three groups (low HBR score 0-1.0, 48 patients; moderate HBR score 1.5-3.0, 176 patients; and high HBR score ≥ 3.5, 35 patients). During the study period, 82 patients (39.6%) died due to cardiac (n=23) and non-cardiac causes (n=59). All-cause mortality increased significantly with increasing ARC-HBR scores. Cox multivariate analysis revealed a significant association between high ARC-HBR scores and the risk of all-cause mortality within two years. Major bleeding events increased significantly with increasing ARC-HBR scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The ARC-HBR score could predict 2-year mortality in patients with CLTI who underwent EVT. Thus, this score can help determine the best revascularization strategy for patients with CLTI.

Coronary Artery Disease Risk Prediction in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis: Development and Validation of the Aortic Stenosis-Coronary Artery Disease (AS-CAD) Score

Patients at a low risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) could be triaged to noninvasive coronary computed tomography angiogram instead of invasive coronary angiography, reducing health care costs and patient morbidity. Therefore, we aimed to develop a CAD risk prediction score to identify those who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) at a low risk of CAD. We enrolled 1,782 patients who underwent TAVI and randomized the patients to the derivation or validation cohort 2:1. The aortic stenosis-CAD (AS-CAD) score was developed using logistic regression, followed by separation into low- (score 0 to 5), intermediate- (6 to 10), or high-risk (>11) categories. The AS-CAD was validated initially through the k-fold cross-validation, followed by a separately held validation cohort. The average age of the cohort was 82 ± 7 years, and 41% (730 of 1,782) were female; 35% (630) had CAD. The male sex, previous percutaneous coronary intervention, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, smoking status, left ventricular ejection fraction <50%, and right ventricular systolic pressure >35 mm Hg were all associated with an increased risk of CAD and were included in the final AS-CAD model (all p <0.03). Within the validation cohort, the AS-CAD score stratified those into low, intermediate, and high risk of CAD (p <0.001). Discrimination was good within the internal validation cohort, with a c-statistic of 0.79 (95% confidence interval 0.74 to 0.84), with similar power obtained using k-fold cross-validation (c-statistic 0.74 [95% confidence interval 0.70 to 0.77]). In conclusion, The AS-CAD score robustly identified those at a low risk of CAD in patients with severe AS. The use of AS-CAD in practice could avoid potential complications of invasive coronary angiogram by triaging low-risk patients to noninvasive coronary assessment using existing computed tomography data.

Standardized Definitions for Cardiogenic Shock Research and Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices: Scientific Expert Panel From the Shock Academic Research Consortium (SHARC)

The Shock Academic Research Consortium is a multi-stakeholder group, including representatives from the US Food and Drug Administration and other government agencies, industry, and payers, convened to develop pragmatic consensus definitions useful for the evaluation of clinical trials enrolling patients with cardiogenic shock, including trials evaluating mechanical circulatory support devices. Several in-person and virtual meetings were convened between 2020 and 2022 to discuss the need for developing the standardized definitions required for evaluation of mechanical circulatory support devices in clinical trials for cardiogenic shock patients. The expert panel identified key concepts and topics by performing literature reviews, including previous clinical trials, while recognizing current challenges and the need to advance evidence-based practice and statistical analysis to support future clinical trials. For each category, a lead (primary) author was assigned to perform a literature search and draft a proposed definition, which was presented to the subgroup. These definitions were further modified after feedback from the expert panel meetings until a consensus was reached. This manuscript summarizes the expert panel recommendations focused on outcome definitions, including efficacy and safety.

Antithrombotic therapy with Transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Aortic valve replacement is a necessary management strategy for patients with severe aortic stenosis. The use of transaortic valve replacement (TAVR) has increased significantly over the last decade and now exceeds traditional surgical aortic valve replacement. Since the valve systems used in TAVR consist of bioprosthetic valve tissue encased in a metal stent frame, antithrombotic therapy recommendations cannot be extrapolated from prior data with differently constructed surgical bioprosthetic or mechanical valves. Data on the use of antithrombotic therapy with TAVR are a rapidly developing area of medicine. Choice of agents depends on several patient factors. Patients undergoing TAVR also have a relatively high incidence of subclinical valve thrombosis. The clinical impact of this phenomenon and the implications for antithrombotic therapy continue to evolve. It is critical for clinicians who treat patients undergoing TAVR to have a firm understanding of practice guidelines, the evolving evidence, and its implications for the use of antithrombotic therapy in these patients.

Definition, Staging, and Role of Biomarkers in Acute Kidney Injury in the Context of Cardiovascular Interventions

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequently occurring complication of cardiovascular interventions, and associated with adverse outcomes. Therefore, a clear definition of AKI is of paramount importance to enable timely recognition and treatment. Historically, changes in the serum creatinine and urine output have been used to define AKI, and the criteria have evolved over time with better understanding of the impact of AKI on the outcomes. However, the reliance on serum creatinine for these AKI definitions carries numerous limitations including delayed rise, inability to differentiate between hemodynamics versus structural injury and assay variability to name a few.

The characteristics and outcomes in patients with acute heart failure who used tolvaptan: from KCHF registry

AIMS

The use of tolvaptan is increasing in clinical practice in Japan. However, the characteristics of patients who used tolvaptan and the timing of its use in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are not fully elucidated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Among consecutive 4056 patients in the Kyoto Congestive Heart Failure registry, we analysed 3802 patients after excluding patients on dialysis, prior or unknown tolvaptan use at admission, and unknown timing of tolvaptan use, and we divided them into two groups: tolvaptan use (N = 773) and no tolvaptan use (N = 3029). The prevalence of tolvaptan use varied widely from 48.7% to 0% across the participating centres. Factors independently associated with tolvaptan use were diabetes, poor medical adherence, oedema, pleural effusion, hyponatraemia, estimated glomerular filtration rate < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 , moderate/severe tricuspid regurgitation, dobutamine infusion within 24 h, and additional inotropes infusion beyond 24 h after admission. The mortality rate at 90 days after admission was significantly higher in the tolvaptan use group than in the no tolvaptan use group (14.3% vs. 8.6%, P = 0.049). However, after adjustment, the excess mortality risk of tolvaptan use relative to no tolvaptan use was no longer significant (hazard ratio = 1.53, 95% confidence interval = 0.77-3.02, P = 0.22). Patients with tolvaptan use had a longer hospital stay [median (interquartile range): 22 (15-34) days vs. 15 (11-21) days, P < 0.0001] and a higher prevalence of worsening renal failure (47.0% vs. 31.8%, P < 0.0001) and worsening heart failure (24.8% vs. 14.4%, P < 0.0001) than those without.

CONCLUSIONS

AHF patients with tolvaptan use had more congestive status with poorer in-hospital outcomes and higher short-term mortality than those without tolvaptan use.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02334891 (NCT02334891) and https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000017241 (UMIN000015238).

Cardiac Death After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement With Contemporary Devices

BACKGROUND

The burden of cardiac death after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), particularly from advanced heart failure (HF) and sudden cardiac death (SCD), remains largely unknown.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to evaluate the incidence and predictors of SCD and HF-related death in TAVR recipients treated with newer-generation devices.

METHODS

This study included a total of 5,421 consecutive patients who underwent TAVR with newer-generation devices using balloon (75.7%) or self-expandable (24.3%) valves.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 2 (IQR: 1-3) years, 976 (18.0%) patients had died, 50.8% from cardiovascular causes. Advanced HF and SCD accounted for 11.6% and 7.5% of deaths, respectively. Independent predictors of HF-related death were atrial fibrillation (HR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.47-3.22; P < 0.001), prior pacemaker (HR: 1.79; 95% CI: 1.10-2.92; P = 0.01), reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HR: 1.08 per 5% decrease; 95% CI: 1.01-1.14; P = 0.02), transthoracic approach (HR: 2.50; 95% CI: 1.37-4.55; P = 0.003), and new-onset persistent left bundle branch block (HR: 1.85; 95% CI: 1.14-3.02; P = 0.01). Two baseline characteristics (diabetes, HR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.13-2.89; P = 0.01; and chronic kidney disease, HR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.02-2.90; P = 0.04) and 3 procedural findings (valve in valve, HR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.01-4.64; P = 0.04; transarterial nontransfemoral approach, HR: 2.23; 95% CI: 1.23-4.48; P = 0.01; and periprocedural ventricular arrhythmia, HR: 7.19; 95% CI: 2.61-19.76; P < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of SCD after TAVR.

CONCLUSIONS

Advanced HF and SCD accounted for a fifth of deaths after TAVR in contemporary practice. Potentially treatable factors leading to increased risk of HF deaths and SCD were identified, such as arrhythmia/dyssynchrony factors for HF and valve-in-valve TAVR or periprocedural ventricular arrhythmias for SCD.

Effect of Edoxaban Versus Antiplatelet Therapy on Leaflet Thrombosis and Cerebral Thromboembolism After TAVI According to Major Clinical and Anatomic Factors in Prespecified Subgroup Analysis from the ADAPT-TAVR Trial

It is unknown whether edoxaban versus dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) has differential treatment effects on leaflet thrombosis, cerebral thromboembolism, and neurologic or neurocognitive dysfunction according to clinical and anatomic factors after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. To investigate the relative effects of edoxaban and DAPT on leaflet and cerebral thromboembolism in patients with major risk factors. The primary end point of this study was the incidence of leaflet thrombosis on computed tomography at 6 months. The secondary end points were new cerebral lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging and neurologic and neurocognitive dysfunction between baseline and 6-month follow-up. Cox regression models assessed the consistency of the treatment effects in the prespecified subgroups. The favorable effect of edoxaban versus DAPT on the leaflet thrombosis was consistent across multiple clinical or anatomic subgroups, without significant interaction between the drug effect and each subgroup (p for interaction for age = 0.597, gender = 0.557, body mass index = 0.866, Society of Thoracic Surgeons score = 0.307, valve type = 0.702, edoxaban reduction criteria = 0.604, and valve morphology = 0.688). However, the incidence of new cerebral lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging and worsening of neurologic and neurocognitive function were not significantly different between the groups among the various key subgroups. The relative effects of edoxaban and DAPT on the risk of leaflet thrombosis, cerebral thromboembolism, and neurologic dysfunction were consistent across a diverse spectrum of clinical or anatomical factors. Further studies are required to define tailored antithrombotic therapy for high-risk groups with specific clinical or anatomic characteristics.

Conduction Disturbance After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With Self- or Balloon-Expandable Valve According to the Implantation Depth

Membranous septum (MS) length, in conjunction with implantation depth (ID), is known as a determinant of conduction disturbance (CD) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, its impact might be dissimilar among valve types because each valve has a different platform. This study sought to investigate the different impacts of ID and MS length on the new-onset CD between ACURATE neo and SAPIEN 3. This study included patients without a previous permanent pacemaker implantation who underwent TAVI with ACURATE neo and SAPIEN 3 and divided them into 2 groups based on the ID according to MS length (deep and shallow implantation group). Deep implantation was defined as transcatheter heart valve implantation deeper than MS length. The primary endpoint was new-onset CD (new permanent pacemaker implantation or new-onset complete left bundle branch block). A total of 688 patients (deep implantation: n = 373, shallow implantation: n = 315) were identified as a study cohort. New-onset CD developed more frequently in the deep implantation group (16.6% vs 7.0%; p = 0.0001). Deep implantation was revealed as a predictor of new-onset CD. Moreover, deep implantation was significantly associated with new-onset CD after SAPIEN 3 implantation but not after ACURATE neo. Among patients with MS shorter than 2 mm, ACURATE neo was superior in terms of avoiding new-onset CD. In conclusion, the deep implantation was associated with new-onset CD after TAVI with SAPIEN 3 but not with ACURATE neo. These results may impact device selection in patients with a preexisting high risk of CD.

Outcomes of patients with active cancer undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease and cancer are the two leading causes of mortality worldwide, and their association presents a therapeutic challenge. Current data regarding the prognosis of active cancer in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement are conflicting.

AIM

To determine the impact and prognosis of active cancer in transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis treated by transcatheter aortic valve replacement between February 2010 and May 2019 were enrolled in a prospective study. The cohort was divided according to the presence or absence of active cancer at baseline. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality 1 year after the procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 1,125 patients were enrolled: 1,037 (92.2%) without and 88 (7.8%) with active cancer. The most frequent cancers were haematological (36.4%), breast (14.8%) and prostate (14.8%), with 79.5% of patients receiving curative treatment and 17.0% receiving palliative treatment. The 1-year mortality rate was higher in patients with active cancer (27.3% vs. 13.9%; P<0.01), mainly driven by non-cardiovascular causes. An increased cardiovascular mortality rate at 2 years was seen in patients with active cancer (27.5% vs. 15.0%; P=0.03) compared with a similar rate at 1-year follow-up. Active cancer was a strong predictor of 1-year all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 2.46, 95% confidence interval 1.19-4.68; P=0.02). Major/life-threatening bleeding events at 1 year were more frequent in patients with active cancer (P=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement, 1-year all-cause mortality is higher in those with active cancer. We also observed a trend towards increased long-term bleeding events in case of active cancer.

Results of new-generation balloon vs. self-expandable transcatheter heart valves for bicuspid aortic valve stenosis

Background

Data comparing new-generation self-expandable (SEV, Evolut R/PRO) vs. balloon-expandable (BEV, SAPIEN 3/3Ultra) transcatheter heart valve replacement (TAVR) in bicuspid aortic valve stenosis (BAV) is limited. Our aim was to compare 30-day results of SEV and BEV implantations in patients with BAV.

Methods

A total of 2009 patients underwent TAVR between April 2015 and June 2021 at our Centre. From our institutional registry, we identified 106 consecutive patients with BAV who underwent TAVR using SEV and BEV.

Results

A 106 patients (n = 68 BEV; n = 38 SEV) were included. Mean age was 74.6 ± 8.8 years (BEV) vs.75.3 ± 8.7 years (SEV) (p = 0.670) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 2.6 ± 1.9 (BEV) vs. 2.6 ± 1.6 (SEV) (p = 0.374), respectively. Device landing zone calcium volume (DLZ-CV) was 1168 ± 811 vs. 945 ± 850 mm3 (p = 0.192). Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-3 device success at 30 days was similar (BEV 80.9% vs. SEV 86.8%; p = 0.433). More post-dilatations were performed in SEVs (23.5% BEV vs. 52.6% SEV; p = 0.002). Overall mean gradient at 30 days follow-up was 11.9 ± 4.6 mmHG (BEV) vs. 9.2 ± 3.0 mmHG (SEV) (p = 0.002). A mild-moderate degree of paravalvular leak (PVL) was detected more often in the SEV group (7.4% vs. 13.2%; p = 0.305). A trend towards higher rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was observed in SEV (11.8% vs. 23.7%; p = 0.109).

Conclusions

Treatment of BAV revealed similar performance using BEV and SEV. In this retrospective cohort study, hemodynamics were more favorable with the SEV, although there was a trend toward more PVL and significantly more post-dilations.