Efficacy of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) in coronary stenosis with severe calcification: A multicenter systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

With heavily calcified coronary and peripheral artery lesions, lesion preparation is crucial before stent placement to avoid underexpansion, associated with stent thrombosis or restenosis and patency failure in the long-term. Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) technology disrupts superficial and deep calcium by using localized pulsative sonic pressure waves, making it to a promising tool for patients with severe calcification in coronary bed.

AIMS

The aim of the study is to systematically review and summarize available data regarding the safety and efficacy of IVL for lesion preparation in severely calcified coronary arteries before stenting.

METHODS

This study was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. We systematically searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases from their inception to February 23, 2023, for studies assessing the characteristics and outcomes of patients undergoing IVL before stent implantation. The diameter of the vessel lumen before and after IVL, as well as stent implantation, were analyzed. The occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was assessed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis comprised 38 studies including 2977 patients with heavily calcified coronary lesions. The mean age was 72.2 ± 9.1 years, with an overall IVL clinical success of 93% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 91%-95%, I2 = 0%) and procedural success rate of 97% (95% CI: 95%-98%, I2 = 73.7%), while the in-hospital and 30-days incidence of MACE, myocardial infarction (MI), and death were 8% (95% CI: 6%-11%, I2 = 84.5%), 5% (95% CI: 2%-8%, I2 = 85.6%), and 2% (95% CI: 1%-3%, I2 = 69.3%), respectively. There was a significant increase in the vessel diameter (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 2.47, 95% CI: 1.77-3.17, I2 = 96%) and a decrease in diameter stenosis (SMD: -3.44, 95% CI: -4.36 to -2.52, I2 = 97.5%) immediately after IVL application, while it was observed further reduction in diameter stenosis (SMD: -6.57, 95% CI: -7.43 to -5.72, I2 = 95.8%) and increase in the vessel diameter (SMD: 4.37, 95% CI: 3.63-5.12, I2 = 96.7%) and the calculated lumen area (SMD: 3.23, 95% CI: 2.10-4.37, I2 = 98%), after stent implantation. The mean acute luminal gain following IVL and stent implantation was estimated to be 1.27 ± 0.6 and 1.94 ± 1.1 mm, respectively. Periprocedural complications were rare, with just a few cases of perforations, dissection, or no-reflow phenomena recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

IVL seems to be a safe and effective strategy for lesion preparation in severely calcified lesions before stent implantation in coronary arteries. Future prospective studies are now warranted to compare IVL to other lesion preparation strategies.

Safety and effectiveness of the phoenix atherectomy device for endovascular treatment of common femoral and popliteal arteries: Results of the EN-MOBILE trial

Background: This study aimed to assess the peri- and postprocedural outcomes of atherectomy-assisted endovascular treatment of the common femoral (CFA) and popliteal arteries. Methods: Phoenix atherectomy was used for the treatment of 73 and 53 de novo CFA and popliteal artery lesions, respectively, in 122 consecutive patients. Safety endpoints encompassed perforation and peripheral embolization. Postprocedural endpoints included freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) and clinical success (an improvement of ⩾ 2 Rutherford category [RC]). In addition, 531 patients treated for popliteal artery stenosis or occlusion without atherectomy were used as a comparator group. Results: Procedural success (residual stenosis < 30% after treatment) was 99.2%. The need for bail-out stenting was 2 (2.7%) and 3 (5.7%) in CFA and popliteal artery lesions, respectively. Only one (1.4%) embolization occurred in the CFA, which was treated by catheter aspiration. No perforations occurred. After 1.50 (IQR = 1.17-2.20) years, CD-TLR occurred in seven (9.2%) and six (14.6%) patients with CFA and popliteal artery lesions, respectively, whereas clinical success was achieved in 62 (91.2%) and 31 (75.6%), respectively. Patients treated with atherectomy and DCB in the popliteal artery after matching for baseline RC, lesion calcification, length, and the presence of chronic total occlusion, exhibited higher freedom from CD-TLR compared to the nondebulking group (HR = 3.1; 95% CI = 1.1-8.5, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Atherectomy can be used safely and is associated with low rates of bail-out stenting in CFA and popliteal arteries. CD-TLR and clinical success rates are clinically acceptable. In addition, for the popliteal artery, atherectomy combined with DCB demonstrates lower CD-TLR rates compared to a DCB alone strategy. (German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00016708).

Multi-parametric non-contrast cardiac magnetic resonance for the differentiation between cardiac amyloidosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

AIM

To evaluate the ability of fast strain-encoded (SENC) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) derived myocardial strain and native T1 mapping to discriminate between hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiac amyloidosis.

METHODS

Ninety nine patients (57 with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and 42 with cardiac amyloidosis) were systematically analysed. LV-ejection fraction, LV-mass index, septal wall thickness and native T1 mapping values were assessed. In addition, global circumferential and longitudinal strain and segmental circumferential and longitudinal strain in basal, mid-ventricular, and apical segments were calculated. A ratio was built by dividing native T1 values by basal segmental strain (T1-to-basal segmental strain ratio).

RESULTS

Myocardial strain was equally distributed in apical and basal segments in HCM patients, whereas an apical sparing with less impaired apical strain was noticed in cardiac amyloidosis (apical-to-basal-ratio of 1.01 ± 0.23 versus 1.20 ± 0.28, p < 0.001). T1 values were significantly higher in amyloidosis compared to HCM patients (1170.7 ± 66.4 ms versus 1078.3 ± 57.4ms, p < 0.001). The T1-to-basal segmental strain ratio exhibited high accuracy for the differentiation between the two clinical entities (Sensitivity = 85%, Specificity = 77%, AUC = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.81-0.95, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that age and the T1-to-basal-strain-ratio were the most robust factors for the differentiation between HCM and cardiac amyloidosis.

CONCLUSION

The T1-to-basal-segmental strain ratio, combining information from segmental circumferential and longitudinal strain and native T1 mapping aids the differentiation between HCM and cardiac amyloidosis with high accuracy and within a fast CMR protocol, obviating the need for contrast agent administration.

Systematic review and meta-analysis for the value of cardiac magnetic resonance strain to predict cardiac outcomes

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for the diagnostic classification and risk stratification in most patients with cardiac disorders. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ability of Strain-encoded MR (SENC) for the prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to the PRISMA Guidelines, including patients with or without cardiovascular disease and asymptomatic individuals. Myocardial strain by HARP were used as pulse sequences in 1.5 T scanners. Published literature in MEDLINE (PubMed) and Cochrane's databases were explored before February 2023 for studies assessing the clinical utility of myocardial strain by Harmonic Phase Magnetic Resonance Imaging (HARP), Strain-encoded MR (SENC) or fast-SENC. In total, 8 clinical trials (4 studies conducted in asymptomatic individuals and 4 in patients with suspected or known cardiac disease) were included in this systematic review, while 3 studies were used for our meta-analysis, based on individual patient level data. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard models were used, testing the ability of myocardial strain by HARP and SENC/fast-SENC for the prediction of MACE. Strain enabled risk stratification in asymptomatic individuals, predicting MACE and the development of incident heart failure. Of 1332 patients who underwent clinically indicated CMR, including SENC or fast-SENC acquisitions, 19 patients died, 28 experienced non-fatal infarctions, 52 underwent coronary revascularization and 86 were hospitalized due to heart failure during median 22.4 (17.2-28.5) months of follow-up. SENC/fast-SENC, predicted both all-cause mortality and MACE with high accuracy (HR = 3.0, 95% CI = 1.2-7.6, p = 0.02 and HR = 4.1, 95% CI = 3.0-5.5, respectively, p < 0.001). Using hierarchical Cox-proportional hazard regression models, SENC/fast-SENC exhibited incremental value to clinical data and conventional CMR parameters. Reduced myocardial strain predicts of all-cause mortality and cardiac outcomes in symptomatic patients with a wide range of ischemic or non-ischemic cardiac diseases, whereas in asymptomatic individuals, reduced strain was a precursor of incident heart failure.

Comparison of Two Contemporary Quantitative Atherosclerotic Plaque Assessment Tools for Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography: Single-Center Analysis and Multi-Center Patient Cohort Validation

BACKGROUND

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) provides non-invasive quantitative assessments of plaque burden and composition. The quantitative assessment of plaque components requires the use of analysis software that provides reproducible semi-automated plaque detection and analysis. However, commercially available plaque analysis software can vary widely in the degree of automation, resulting in differences in terms of reproducibility and time spent.

AIM

To compare the reproducibility and time spent of two CCTA analysis software tools using different algorithms for the quantitative assessment of coronary plaque volumes and composition in two independent patient cohorts.

METHODS

The study population included 100 patients from two different cohorts: 50 patients from a single-center (Siemens Healthineers, SOMATOM Force (DSCT)) and another 50 patients from a multi-center study (5 different > 64 slice CT scanner types). Quantitative measurements of total calcified and non-calcified plaque volume of the right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending (LAD), and left circumflex coronary artery (LCX) were performed on a total of 300 coronaries by two independent readers, using two different CCTA analysis software tools (Tool #1: Siemens Healthineers, syngo.via Frontier CT Coronary Plaque Analysis and Tool #2: Siemens Healthineers, successor CT Coronary Plaque Analysis prototype). In addition, the total time spent for the analysis was recorded with both programs.

RESULTS

The patients in cohorts 1 and 2 were 62.8 ± 10.2 and 70.9 ± 11.7 years old, respectively, 10 (20.0%) and 35 (70.0%) were female and 34 (68.0%) and 20 (40.0%), respectively, had hyperlipidemia. In Cohort #1, the inter- and intra-observer variabilities for the assessment of plaque volumes per patient for Tool #1 versus Tool #2 were 22.8%, 22.0%, and 26.0% versus 2.3%, 3.9%, and 2.5% and 19.7%, 21.4%, and 22.1% versus 0.2%, 0.1%, and 0.3%, respectively, for total, noncalcified, and calcified lesions (p < 0.001 for all between Tools #1 and 2 both for inter- and intra-observer). The inter- and intra-observer variabilities using Tool #2 remained low at 2.9%, 2.7%, and 3.0% and 3.8%, 3.7%, and 4.0%, respectively, for total, non-calcified, and calcified lesions in Cohort #2. For each dataset, the median processing time was higher for Tool #1 versus Tool #2 (459.5 s IQR = 348.0-627.0 versus 208.5 s; IQR = 198.0-216.0) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The plaque analysis Tool #2 (CT-guided PCI) encompassing a higher degree of automated support required less manual editing, was more time-efficient, and showed a higher intra- and inter-observer reproducibility for the quantitative assessment of plaque volumes both in a representative single-center and in a multi-center validation cohort.

Retrospective Case Control Matched Comparison of the Antegrade Versus Retrograde Strategy After Antegrade Recanalisation Failure in Complex de novo Femoropopliteal Occlusive Lesions

OBJECTIVE

To investigate dissection severity, need for bailout stenting and limb outcomes in patients undergoing antegrade vs. retrograde revascularisation.

METHODS

Consecutive patients who underwent either antegrade or retrograde revascularisation after failed antegrade recanalisation of long femoropopliteal chronic total occlusion (CTO) due to symptomatic peripheral artery disease between January 2017 and June 2022 were studied. Retrospective case control matching was used to adjust for lesion length and calcification using the peripheral artery calcification scoring system (PACSS). Procedural outcomes included severity of dissection (Type A to F dissections, numerically graded on a scale from 0 - 6 with increasing severity) after angioplasty and number and location of stents needed to be implanted during the index procedure. Additionally, clinically driven target lesion revascularisation (CD-TLR) and major (above ankle) amputation rates were assessed during follow up.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were analysed who underwent antegrade (n = 90) or retrograde after failed antegrade (n = 90) recanalisation. The median patient age was 76.0 (interquartile range [IQR] 67.0, 82.0) years and 76 (42.2%) were female. Moreover, 78 patients (43.3%) had intermittent claudication, whereas 102 (56.7%) had chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI). The mean lesion length was 30.0 (IQR 24.0, 36.0) cm with moderate to severe (3.0 [IQR 2.0, 4.0]) lesion calcification. Dissection severity after angioplasty was higher in the antegrade than retrograde after failed antegrade recanalisation group (4.0 [IQR 3.0, 4.0] vs. 3.0 [IQR 2.0, 4.0]; p < .001). Additionally, the number of stents in all segments and the rate of bailout stenting in popliteal segments was significantly higher with the antegrade strategy (2.0 [IQR 1.0, 3.0] vs. 1.0 [IQR 0, 2.0], p < .010; and 37% vs. 14%, p < .001). During a median follow up of 1.48 (IQR 0.63, 3.09) years, CD-TLR rates (p = .90) and amputation rates in patients with CLTI (p = .15) were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

In complex femoropopliteal CTOs, retrograde after failed antegrade recanalisation, is safe for endovascular revascularisation, which in experienced hands may result in less severe dissections and lower rates of stent placement. However, considering the relatively short follow up, CD-TLR and amputation rates were not statistically different between the two approaches. [German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00015277.].

Diagnostic Pathway From Incidental Mass to Metastatic Melanoma: Role of Multimodal Imaging and Medical Therapy

We present a case of detection of a right atrial mass during surveillance echocardiography, mimicking myxoma. Cardiac magnetic resonance and computed tomography revealed infiltration into the pericardium, suggesting malignancy. Abdominal computed tomography showed multiple liver masses that were histologically positive for metastatic amelanotic melanoma. Under immunotherapy adequate remission was achieved.

Ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis in a patient with COVID-19 infection and bilateral intermediate-to-high-risk pulmonary embolism: a case report

Background

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cardiovascular disorder, potentially associated with high morbidity and mortality rates.

Case summary

Herein, we report on a patient with COVID-19 infection and bilateral PE, who presented after cardiovascular resuscitation with return of spontaneous circulation. Initially, an acute coronary syndrome was suspected but bedside echocardiography showed dilatation of the right ventricle (RV) and RV dysfunction, helping to establish the diagnosis of acute intermediate-to-high-risk PE, which was subsequently confirmed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography pulmonary angiography. The patient was successfully treated using low-dose (12 mg of tissue plasminogen) ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis, which resulted in prompt clinical improvement and reversal of RV dysfunction without bleeding complications.

Discussion

This case demonstrates the importance of echocardiography for the differential diagnosis of PE and of catheter-directed thrombolysis for its treatment in patients with intermediate-to-high-risk and high-risk PEs.

Pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation is associated with non-calcified plaque burden in patients with chronic coronary syndromes

BACKGROUND

Pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation (PCAT) is a marker of inflammation of the pericoronary fat tissue, which can be assessed by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Its prognostic value was reported in previous studies. Nevertheless, the relationship between PCAT, plaque burden and coronary artery disease (CAD) severity, are not well defined.

AIM

We sought to evaluate the relationship between PCAT, CAD severity based on the CAD-RADS 2.0 score and plaque burden in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with a clinical indication for CCTA due to suspected or known CCS were included in our study. PCAT was measured in the proximal 4 ​cm of each of the right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending artery (LAD), and the left circumflex artery (LCX). The CAD-RADS 2.0 score was assessed in all patients and total, calcified, and non-calcified plaque burden was quantitatively measured.

RESULTS

868 patients (median age of 67.0 (IQR ​= ​58.0-75.0)yrs., 400 (46.1%) female) underwent CCTA between September 2020 and August 2022 due to CCS. Weak correlations were found between PCAT and the total plaque burden, as well as with the Agatston score, whereas no correlations were found between PCAT and CAD-RADS 2.0 score. Associations were also observed between the PCAT of the LAD, RCA and LCX with non-calcified plaque burden (Odds ratios of 1.22 (95%CI ​= ​1.15-1.29), 1.11 (95%CI ​= ​1.07-1.17) and 1.14 (95%CI ​= ​1.08-1.14), respectively, p ​< ​0.001 for all) which were independent of age, the Agatston score, and the CAD-RADS 2.0 score). In addition, higher PCAT were noticed with increasing number of plaques, exhibiting high-risk features per patient (p ​< ​0.05 by ANOVA for all).

CONCLUSION

PCAT exhibits significant associations with non-calcified plaque burden and plaques with high-risk features in patients undergoing CCTA for CCS. Thus, PCAT may identify high-risk patients who could benefit from more aggressive preventive therapy, which merits further investigation in future studies.

Endovascular Treatment of Complicated Popliteal Aneurysms Using the Novel "Trap and Fix" Technique

Herein, we present 2 patients with lower limb ischemia caused by complicated popliteal aneurysms with thrombosis and distal embolization, compromising blood flow to the foot. In both cases, covered stents were first implanted guided by intravascular ultrasound and computed tomography angiography, respectively. After "trapping" the thrombi, mechanical thrombectomy or further stent implantations were performed, "fixing" the remaining lesions and preventing embolization. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Case report: Strong low-density-cholesterol reduction accompanied by shrinkage of low-attenuation coronary plaque during lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid-serial evaluation by coronary computed tomography angiography

Here, we present a patient with coronary artery disease and prior percutaneous coronary interventions. This patient had to discontinue taking multiple statins and ezetimibe due to intolerance with musculoskeletal complaints and nausea. Monotherapy with bempedoic acid was well tolerated and was exceptionally effective at lipid lowering, enabling patients to achieve the low-density lipoprotein target of <55 mg/dl, as recommended by current guidelines. In addition, serial coronary computed tomography angiography performed upon clinical indications, during 20 months of lipid-lowering treatment with bempedoic acid, demonstrated signs of favorable plaque component modification, with shrinkage of the low-attenuation plaque component compared to baseline findings.

Endovascular Versus Surgical Treatment for All Comer Patients With Prosthetic Bypass Graft Occlusion: The Multicentre ENSUPRO Study

OBJECTIVE

Bypass surgery plays a key role in complex lower limb lesions. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the management of symptomatic prosthetic bypass graft (PBG) occlusion. This study aimed to report outcomes following open, hybrid, or endovascular management of patients presenting with symptomatic PBG occlusion.

METHODS

A multicentre, retrospective cohort study was conducted, including patients presenting with PBG occlusion between January 2014 and December 2021 from 18 centres. It assessed the comparative value of treatment strategies, including (1) recanalisation of native vessels, (2) endovascular treatment of the failed PBG, (3) hybrid treatment, and (4) open surgery. The primary outcome measure was amputation free survival (AFS, time to major amputation and or death), whereas all cause mortality, major amputation, PBG re-occlusion, target lesion revascularisation (TLR), and Rutherford category (RC) improvement during follow up were considered as secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

Of 260 patients with occluded PBGs, 108 (41.5%) were treated endovascularly (24 [22.2%] by recanalisation of native vessels and 84 [77.7%] by PBG re-opening), 57 (21.9%) underwent hybrid revascularisation, and 58 (22.3%) had surgery. In addition, 27 (10.4%) were treated conservatively and 10 (3.8%) received systemic thrombolysis. With a median follow up of 1.4 (0.6 - 3.0) years, AFS was 95.5%, 76.4%, 45.5%, and 37.1%, respectively in Groups 1 - 4 (p = .007). Older age and non-endovascular treatment (HR 1.05 and 1.70; p < .01 for both) were independent predictors of poor AFS. Endovascular treatment was associated with lower rates of major amputation (p = .04), PBG re-occlusion (p < .001), and TLR (p = .037), and higher RC improvements (p < .001), whereas all cause mortality was comparable between treatment groups (p = .21).

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment is associated with higher rates of AFS and RC improvement and lower rates of PBG re-occlusion and TLR in patients with PBG occlusion.

Predictors of persistent symptoms after mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-related myocarditis (myovacc registry)

Aims

Epidemiological surveillance has raised safety concerns for mRNA SARS-CoV-2-vaccination-related myocarditis. We aimed to analyze epidemiological, clinical and imaging findings associated with clinical outcomes in these patients in an international multi-center registry (NCT05268458).

Methods and results

Patients with clinical and CMR diagnosis of acute myocarditis within 30 days after mRNA SARS-CoV-2-vaccination were included from five centers in Canada and Germany between 05/21 and 01/22. Clinical follow-up on persistent symptoms was collected. We enrolled 59 patients (80% males, mean age 29 years) with CMR-derived mild myocarditis (hs-Troponin-T 552 [249-1,193] ng/L, CRP 28 [13-51] mg/L; LVEF 57 ± 7%, LGE 3 [2-5] segments). Most common symptoms at baseline were chest pain (92%) and dyspnea (37%). Follow-up data from 50 patients showed overall symptomatic burden improvement. However, 12/50 patients (24%, 75% females, mean age 37 years) reported persisting symptoms (median interval 228 days) of chest pain (n = 8/12, 67%), dyspnea (n = 7/12, 58%), with increasing occurrence of fatigue (n = 5/12, 42%) and palpitations (n = 2/12, 17%). These patients had initial lower CRP, lower cardiac involvement in CMR, and fewer ECG changes. Significant predictors of persisting symptoms were female sex and dyspnea at initial presentation. Initial severity of myocarditis was not associated with persisting complaints.

Conclusion

A relevant proportion of patients with mRNA SARS-CoV-2-vaccination-related myocarditis report persisting complaints. While young males are usually affected, patients with persisting symptoms were predominantly females and older. The severity of the initial cardiac involvement not predicting these symptoms may suggest an extracardiac origin.

Periprocedural Outcomes of Rotational Atherectomy-Assisted Balloon Angioplasty in Isolated Atherosclerotic Popliteal Artery Lesions: The ISO-POP Trial

BACKGROUND

Treatment of calcified popliteal artery lesions represents an ongoing challenge for vascular specialists. Biomechanical forces of external compression, torsion and elongation that occur with locomotion in the popliteal segment can lead to stent fractures and occlusions. The aim of our study was to assess the procedural success rate of atherectomy in combination with balloon angioplasty for isolated calcified popliteal artery lesions.

METHODS

Between January 2020 and December 2022, 62 patients with isolated atherosclerotic lesions of the popliteal artery underwent endovascular treatment by use of rotational atherectomy (Phoenix, Philips USA, (subgroup A) or Jetstream, Boston USA, (subgroup B), atherectomy systems) and additional balloon angioplasty in two vascular centers. The primary outcome measures were: 1. periprocedural clinical and technical success (<30% residual stenosis and no need for bailout stenting due to flow-limiting dissection) and 2. postprocedural increase in the ankle brachial index of more than 0.1.

RESULTS

The overall rate of bailout stenting was 4.8%, whereas the procedural success rate was 98.4%. The rate of procedural complications included 3.7% and 5.7% peripheral embolizations in the subgroups A and B, respectively, and no vessel perforations were noted. All embolizations were successfully treated by catheter aspiration or capture in the pre-treatment placed filter system. In addition, 1 (3.7%) pseudoaneurysm in the groin was reported in subgroup A and treated by surgical means. Median ABI of the affected limbs improved from 0.55 (0.2) to 0.70 (0.2) in subgroup A and from 0.50 (0.2) to 0.95 (0.1) in subgroup B (DABI of 0.15 versus 0.45, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of rotational atherectomy and balloon angioplasty in the popliteal artery showed reproducible outcomes in 2 centers, with low incidence of complications and low rates of bail-out stenting. These findings may contribute to more liberal use of such devices especially in segments with high risk for stent factures and occlusions.

Successful Conservative Treatment of Mobile Aortic Thrombus Causing Acute Limb Ischemia

In this clinical vignette, we present the case of an 83-year-old female patient with acute limb ischemia, resulting from a large (1.8 × 2.8 cm) mobile thrombus in the descending aorta. The peripheral obstruction was treated with mechanical thrombectomy, whereas the intra-aortic thrombus was treated conservatively with clopidogrel and fondaparinux. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.).

Novel Therapeutic Concepts for Complex Femoropopliteal Lesions Using the Jetstream Atherectomy System

INTRODUCTION

The presence of severe arterial calcification is associated with less favorable outcomes in terms of procedural and clinical success as well as higher rates of major adverse limb events. Recent studies incorporating rotational atherectomy for effective preparation of severely calcified lesions demonstrate beneficial procedural outcomes by obtaining maximal luminal gain and improved long-term outcomes.

METHODS

This prospective single-center, observational study includes patients with severely calcified femoropopliteal lesions with chronic limb ischemia Rutherford 1-5 between January 2017 and July 2019, who underwent atherectomy using the Jetstream Atherectomy system, followed by drug-coated balloon angioplasty. Lesion calcification was categorized by the Peripheral Arterial Calcium Scoring System (PACSS), whereas lesion complexity was classified by the Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC). Safety and efficacy aspects in terms of vessel injury, thromboembolism, and clinical success were systematically analyzed up to 12 months of follow-up (FU).

RESULTS

In 162 consecutive patients, 210 non-stented and 22 stented lesions were treated. Twelve (7.4%) patients received bail-out stenting. Mean lesion length was 24.2±4.8 cm; 51% were chronic total occlusions (mean occlusion length 18.2±5.1 cm). TASC C lesions were present in 38 patients (23.5%) and TASC D lesions in 124 patients (76.5%). The mean PACCS score was 3.3±0.9. Device success was achieved in 88%; procedural success was noted in 99% of the lesions. Embolic protection device was used in 11.7%. Perforation or dissection occurred in none of the cases. Asymptomatic peripheral embolization was noted in 10 patients (6.2%). Clinical FU at 12 months was available in 157 of 162 patients (96.9%). At 12 month FU, (1) mean Rutherford classification at baseline of 3.7±0.6 significantly dropped to 1.0±0.9 (p<0.05), (2) baseline mean anke-brachial index (ABI) of 0.4±0.1 significantly increased to 0.8±0.2 (p<0.05), (3) 92.6% were free from target lesion revascularization (TLR), (4) 95.1% were free from target vessel revascularization (TVR), and (5) binary restenosis measured by duplex occurred in 22 patients (13.6%). Multivariate analyses showed lesion length as predictive of stent placement (p=0.02), whereas both lesion length (p=0.006) and PACCS score (p=0.02) are predictive of clinical success.

CONCLUSION

Rotational atherectomy in combination with drug-coated balloon (DCB) can be safely performed in long, calcified (non-) occlusive lesions with a relatively low rate of bail-out stenting and favorable clinical mid-term results.

CLINICAL IMPACT

In this prospective, single arm study we demonstrated that combination treatment using rotational atherectomy and DCB is safe and effective in complex and calcified TASC C/D femoropopliteal lesions in patients with claudication or CLTI in a real-world clinical setting. Despite mean lesion length of >20cm and a relatively high rate of chronic total occlusions, the rate of bail-out stenting was surprisingly low (7.4%), whereas the rates of freedom from TLR and TVR were surprisingly high. Thus, our study may encourage vascular specialists to choose an endovascular -first approach even in such complex and calcified femoropopliteal lesions and occlusions in daily clinical practice.

Endovascular interventions in outpatient care

Endovascular arterial revascularisations for the treatment of symptomatic peripheral arterial disease are constantly increasing in importance and number due to the changing age structure and high numbers of comorbidities in the German population. Patients with peripheral artery disease are often at increased risk for peri- and post-procedural complications including severe cardiovascular events. Due to limited financial and human resources and considerable risks of hospitalization, endovascular interventions that were previously reserved for hospitalized patients are now progressively considered to be performed as day case procedures. More than one third of these procedures are performed in Germany by internists with a specialization in angiology. In the current position paper the German Society of Angiology endorsed by the European Society of Vascular Medicine, summarizes the requirements and risk factors to be considered for the planning, safe performance and post procedural care of endovascular revascularizations in outpatients. The performance of endovascular procedures for peripheral artery disease both in hospitalised and outpatients should be accompanied by a mandatory quality assurance process that should not only capture procedural data, but also require documentation of complications and longterm outcome.

Best crossing of peripheral chronic total occlusions

Together with colleagues from different disciplines, including cardiologists, interventional radiologists and vascular surgeons, committee members of the of the German Society of Angiology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Angiologie [DGA]), developed a novel algorithm for the endovascular treatment of peripheral chronic total occlusive lesions (CTOs). Our aim is to improve patient and limb related outcomes, by increasing the success rate of endovascular procedures. This can be achieved by adherence to the proposed crossing algorithm, aiding the standardization of endovascular procedures. The following steps are proposed: (i) APPLY Duplex sonography and if required 3D techniques such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance angiography. This will help you to select the optimal access site. (ii) EVALUATE the CTO cap morphology and distal vessel refilling sites during diagnostic angiography, which are potential targets for a retrograde access. (iii) START with antegrade wiring strategies including guidewire (GW) and support catheter technology. Use GW escalation strategies to penetrate the proximal cap of the CTO, which may usually be fibrotic and calcified. (iv) STOP the antegrade attempt depending on patient specific parameters and the presence of retrograde options, as evaluated by pre-procedural imaging and during angiography. (v) In case of FAILURE, consider advanced bidirectional techniques and reentry devices. (vi) In case of SUCCESS, externalize the GW and treat the CTO. Manage the retrograde access at the end of the endovascular procedure. (vii) STOP the procedure if no progress can be obtained within 3 hours, in case of specific complications or when reaching maximum contrast administration based on individual patient's renal function. Consider radiation exposure both for patients and operators. In this manuscript we systematically follow and explain each of the steps (i)-(vi) based on practical examples from our daily routine. We strongly believe that the integration of this algorithm in the daily practice of endovascular specialists, can improve vessel and patient specific outcomes.

Crossing Algorithm for Infrainguinal Chronic Total Occlusions: An Interdisciplinary Expert Opinion Statement

A crossing algorithm was developed for the endovascular treatment of peripheral chronic total occlusive lesions (CTOs) to educate, guide, and appropriately influence clinical practice aiming at harmonization and standardization of endovascular procedures. The following steps are proposed: One, duplex sonography and if required computed tomography or magnetic resonance angiography for the selection of the optimal access site. Two, angiographic evaluation of the proximal/distal cap morphology, presence of collaterals at the origin of the proximal cap and at the distal vessel refilling site. In addition, evaluation of distal vessels, including their diameters and quality, and the presence of calcification or stents within the occlusion zone. Three, antegrade wiring strategies, guidewire (GW) and support catheter technology, as well as GW escalation strategies. Stop the antegrade attempt depending on clinical indication for peripheral artery disease treatment and the presence of retrograde options. Four, retrograde access site, support catheter, or sheath insertion and wiring technology from distally. Five, considering strategy change when progress cannot by achieved, using advanced bidirectional techniques and re-entry devices. Six, in case of successful GW passage from retrograde, GW externalization and treatment from antegrade. Management of the retrograde access by internal or external hemostasis at the end of the procedure. Alternatively, stop the procedure if no progress can be obtained within 3 hours or in case of specific complications. By establishing the algorithm in the daily routine of endovascular specialists, improvements in vessel- and patient-specific outcomes are anticipated. In addition, future research, and continuous collaboration between experts is warranted.

[Morphological and functional diagnostics of coronary artery disease by computed tomography]

Computed tomography coronary angiography (cCTA) is a safe option for the noninvasive exclusion of significant coronary stenoses in patients with a low or moderate pretest probability for coronary artery disease (CAD). Furthermore, it also allows functional and morphological assessment of coronary stenoses. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines on the diagnosis and management of chronic coronary syndrome published in 2019 have strengthened the importance of cCTA in this context and for this reason it has experienced a considerable upgrade. The determination of the Agatston score is a clinically established method for quantifying coronary calcification and influences the initiation of drug treatment. With technologies, such as the introduction of electrocardiography (ECG)-controlled dose modulation and iterative image reconstruction, cCTA can be performed with high image quality and low radiation exposure. Anatomic imaging of coronary stenoses alone is currently being augmented by innovative techniques, such as myocardial CT perfusion imaging or CT-fractional flow reserve (FFR) but the clinical value of these methods merits further investigation. The cCTA could therefore develop into a gatekeeper with respect to the indications for invasive coronary diagnostics and interventions.

CMR detects decreased myocardial deformation in asymptomatic patients at risk for heart failure

Aims

The main management strategy of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is prevention since HFpEF is associated with many cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, especially since HFpEF is linked to a high risk for both mortality and recurrent heart failure (HF) hospitalizations. Therefore, there is a need for new tools to identify patients with a high risk profile early. Regional strain assessment by CMR seems to be superior in describing deformation impairment in HF. The MyoHealth score is a promising tool to identify cardiac changes early.

Methods and results

Heart failure patients irrespective of LVEF and asymptomatic controls were recruited, and CMR based measures were obtained. For this analysis the asymptomatic control group (n = 19) was divided into asymptomatic subjects without CV co-morbidities or evidence of cardiac abnormalities and (n = 12) and asymptomatic subjects with CV co-morbidities or evidence of cardiac abnormalities (n = 7) as well as patients with HFpEF (n = 19). We performed CMR scans at rest and during a stress test using isometric handgrip exercise (HG). Assessing the MyoHealth score at rest revealed preserved regional strain in 85 ± 9% of LV segments in controls, 73 ± 11% in at Risk subjects and 73 ± 8% in HFpEF patients. During stress the MyoHealth score was 84 ± 7% in controls, 83 ± 7 in at risk subjects and 74 ± 11 in HFpEF patients.

Conclusion

In summary, we show for the first time that asymptomatic subjects with increased CV risk present with HFpEF like impaired myocardial deformation at rest, while they show results like controls under HG stress. The potential of preventive treatment in this group of patients merits further investigation in future.

Clinical trial registration

[https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00015615], identifier [DRKS00015615].

Different endovascular modalities of treatment for isolated atherosclerotic popliteal artery lesions (EMO-POP) registry

BACKGROUND

The mid-term results after treatment of isolated popliteal lesions have been limited. The aim of the present study was to report the mid-term outcomes after endovascular treatment of isolated atherosclerotic popliteal artery lesions.

METHODS

A multicenter (15 hospitals in five countries) retrospective cohort study was performed. Between June 2016 and June 2021, 651 consecutive patients who had been treated for isolated popliteal lesions using endovascular methods exclusively were included in the present study. Six techniques were identified, including plain balloon angioplasty (PTA; n = 286; 43.9%), drug-coated balloon angioplasty (n = 98; 15.1%), stenting with low-chronic outward force (COF) stents (n = 84; 12.9%), stenting with high-COF stents (n = 76; 11.7%), atherectomy alone (n = 17; 2.6%), and directional atherectomy with drug-coated balloons (n = 90; 13.8%). The primary outcomes measures were primary and secondary patency and freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (F-CDTLR).

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 74.5 years. Most of the patients (n = 409; 62.9%) had had chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Popliteal occlusion was found in 400 cases (61.4%). High-grade calcification was present in 36.7% of cases. Immediate technical success was 94.8%. The median follow-up was 26 months (range, 6-42 months). The actuarial rate for all patients at 26 months (per outcome measure) was as follows: primary patency, 73.9%; secondary patency, 88%; and F-CDTLR, 76.5%. When comparing PTA vs all other treatments in an adjusted regression analysis, the F-CDTLR was 75.2% for PTA vs 76.5% for all other treatment (hazard ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-1.48; P = .46, adjusted regression). The difference in secondary patency also was not statistically significant (85.7% for PTA vs 88%; P = .20). Adjusted Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the estimated primary patency was inferior for PTA in pairwise comparisons vs other treatments (P < .001 vs atherectomy; P = .002 vs directional atherectomy with drug-coated balloons; and P = .002 vs low-COF stenting).

CONCLUSIONS

The results from our study have shown that endovascular treatment of isolated popliteal lesions is safe and associated with acceptable patency and F-CDTLR in the mid-term.

Cardiac Troponins for the Clinical Management of Patients with Claudication and without Cardiac Symptoms

Many patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) exhibit undiagnosed obstructive coronary artery disease. We aim to identify the patients with lifestyle limiting claudication due to PAD and without cardiac symptoms, requiring coronary revascularization based on high-sensitive troponin T (hsTnT) values. We assessed hsTnT in consecutive patients referred for elective endovascular treatment due to claudication [Rutherford categories (RC) 2 & 3] between January 2018 and December 2021. Diagnostic work-up by non-invasive imaging and, if required, cardiac catheterization was performed according to clinical data, ECG findings and baseline hsTnT. The occurrence of cardiac death, myocardial infarction or urgent revascularization during follow-up was the primary endpoint. Of 346 patients, 14 (4.0%) exhibited elevated hsTnT ≥ 14 ng/L, including 7 (2.0%) with acute myocardial injury by serial hsTnT sampling. Coronary revascularization by percutaneous coronary intervention was necessary in 6 of 332 (1.5%) patients with normal versus nine of 14 (64.3%) patients with elevated hsTnT (p < 0.001). During 2.4 ± 1.4 years of follow-up, 20 of 286 (7.0%) patients with normal versus four of 13 (30.8%) with elevated hsTnT at baseline reached the composite primary endpoint (p = 0.03 by log-rank test). In conclusion, elevated troponins in cardiac asymptomatic patients with claudication modify subsequent cardiac management and may increase the need for closer surveillance and more aggressive conservative management in polyvascular disease.

Safety and Effectiveness of Endovascular Therapy for the Treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease in Patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus

This study investigated the distribution of risk factors, lesion characteristics and endovascular revascularization (EVR) strategies in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) with vs without diabetes mellitus (DM). Data were collected within the RECcording COurses of vasculaR Diseases (RECCORD) registry. Demographic data, lesion localization (iliac vs femoropopliteal vs below-the-knee (BTK)) and lesion complexity score (LCS) based on number of affected segments, and lesion length (< 10 vs 10-20 vs > 20 cm), EVR strategies and peri-procedural complications were analysed in 786 patients with and 1337 without diabetes mellitus. Patients with diabetes mellitus were older (71.6 ± 9.6 vs 69.4 ± 10.5 years, P < .001) and had higher LCS and more often BTK lesions (P < .05 for all). Lesions were treated less frequently with stents (48.7 vs 59.6%, P < .001) in patients with diabetes mellitus, whereas a non-significant trend was noticed for higher DCB treatment rates (48.3 vs 44.4%, P = .07). Post-interventional ankle-brachial index (ABI) increase was similar (from .77 ± .28 to .92 ± .25 with diabetes mellitus and from .74 ± .21 to .90 ± .20 without diabetes mellitus, P < .001 for both). Peri-/post-procedural complications were low in both groups (4.6%). Patients with diabetes mellitus, who undergo endovascular revascularization are older, have more comorbidities and higher target lesion complexity. However, treatment success rates are similar and complication rates are low.

Case report: Case series of isolated acute pericarditis after SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations

During the worldwide ongoing immunization campaign against SARS-CoV-2, growing data on very rare but potentially harmful side effects of such vaccines arise since approval trials have not been adequately powered to detect those events. Besides the already reported vaccine-related myocarditis, which primarily occurs in young male individuals, our attention was recently drawn to a series of older male and female patients, who were referred to our institutions with isolated acute pericarditis without myocardial damage, shortly after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We describe a series of five adult patients presenting with chest pain, shortness of breath and isolated pericarditis with and without pericardial effusion after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. All patients underwent echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance, and the corresponding findings, including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and T1 and T2 mapping are reported herein. To our knowledge, such cases have not been systematically reported in the current literature so far.

Phoenix atherectomy for patients with peripheral artery disease

BACKGROUND

Endovascular atherectomy enables minimally invasive plaque removal in peripheral artery disease (PAD).

AIMS

We aimed to evaluate the safety and the long-term effectiveness of the Phoenix atherectomy for the treatment of complex and calcified lesions in PAD patients.

METHODS

Consecutive all-comer patients with PAD underwent the Phoenix atherectomy. Device safety in terms of perforation and distal embolisation were evaluated. Lesion calcifications were categorised by the Peripheral Arterial Calcium Scoring System (PACSS) and lesion complexity was assessed by the Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC). Clinically driven target lesion revascularisation (TLR) was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 558 lesions were treated in 402 consecutive patients. Clinical follow-up was available at 15.7±10.2 months for 365 (91%) patients. Of 402 patients, 135 (33.6%) had claudication, 37 (9.2%) had ischaemic rest pain and 230 (57%) exhibited ischaemic ulcerations. Lesions were mostly identified in the femoropopliteal segments (55%), followed by below-the-knee (BTK) segments (32%). Complex TASC C/D lesions and moderate to severe calcifications (PACSS score ≥2) were present in 331 (82%) and 323 (80%) patients, respectively. The mean lesion length was 20.6±14.3 cm. Five (1%) perforations and 10 (2%) asymptomatic embolisations occurred. Bail-out stenting was performed in 4%, 16% and 3% of patients with common femoral artery, femoropopliteal and BTK lesions, respectively. During follow-up, 5 (3.9%) patients with claudication and 52 (21.9%) patients with critical limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI) died (hazard ratio [HR] 3.7; p<0.001). Freedom from TLR was 87.5% (112 of 128) in patients with claudication and 82.3% (195 of 237) in patients with CLTI, respectively (HR 1.8; p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The Phoenix atherectomy can be safely performed in patients with complex lesions with a relatively low rate of bail-out stenting and clinically acceptable TLR rates.

GERMAN CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTER

DRKS00016708.

A case report of distal radial puncture in a patient with acute upper limb ischaemia: the last hope of the cardiologist?

Background

Patients with acute limb ischaemia (ALI) present with acute symptoms, requiring prompt diagnosis and expedited treatment to preserve the viability of the affected ischaemic tissue.

Case summary

We present an 83-year-old female patient with upper ALI due to thrombotic occlusion of the left brachial artery. Concomitantly, the patient had a first diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and was not on treatment with oral anticoagulation. Transfemoral thrombectomy using a 6F Rotarex® catheter resulted in removal of the thrombus from the brachial artery. However, significant amounts of debris embolized distally, causing occlusion of both the radial and ulnar arteries. The debris was successfully removed after puncture of the distal radial artery and retrograde thrombus aspiration using a 5F Envoy catheter. This manoeuver led to flow restoration in both the radial and ulnar arteries and to complete resolution of ischaemic symptoms of the patient.

Discussion

Interventionists may consider distal radial puncture not only as an access site for coronary angiography but also as an option for the endovascular management of ALI in cases of cardiac embolism, as described herein or in cases of thrombotic complications during routine catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention. Herein, we describe the case of an 83-year-old patient, who presented with acute upper limb ischaemia. Due to embolization of thrombotic debris during Rotarex® catheter thrombectomy, flow further diminished in the ulnar and radial arteries. The last hope for successful interventional treatment was thrombectomy from distally after retrograde puncture of the distal radial artery. This unique manoeuver led to flow restoration and complete recovery of the patient without the need for open surgery.

Invasive and Pharmacological Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis: a Scoping Review

The annual occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is 300,000-600,000 cases in the United States and 700,000 in Europe. VTE includes deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of upper or lower extremities, superior and inferior vena cava thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism (PE) as well. The primary treatment of DVT includes oral anticoagulation to prevent the progression of the thrombus and decrease the risk of pulmonary embolism. Depending on the symptoms, more invasive treatments can be applied to target the iliofemoral thrombus and its removal. However, less emphasis is given to acute symptomatology, early recovery of function, quality of life improvement, and the individualized likelihood of developing post-thrombotic syndrome. While invasive therapy has been used to enhance the acute management of iliofemoral DVT, our knowledge about the overall outcomes associated with the invasive treatment of VTE is still limited. In this review, we illustrate the available data on pharmacological and endovascular management of iliofemoral VTE, including therapies such as catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT), mechanical thrombectomy (PMT), and pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT).

Case Report: Disappearance of Late Gadolinium Enhancement and Full Functional Recovery in a Young Patient With SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Related Myocarditis

Acute myocarditis was recently demonstrated in previously healthy young male patients after receipt of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Herein, we report on a 21-year-old man who presented with acute fatigue, myalgia, and chest pain 2 days after his second SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with BNT162b2. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) showed acute myocarditis, with mildly impaired LV-function and abundant subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Control CMR after 3 months showed full functional recovery and complete disappearance of LGE. The benefits of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination may significantly exceed the very rare and, in this case, fully reversible adverse effects.

COVID-19 vs. Classical Myocarditis Associated Myocardial Injury Evaluated by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance and Endomyocardial Biopsy

Background: Despite the ongoing global pandemic, the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac structure and function is still not completely understood. Myocarditis is a rare but potentially serious complication of other viral infections with variable recovery, and is, in some cases, associated with long-term cardiac remodeling and functional impairment.

Aim: To assess myocardial injury in patients who recently recovered from an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection with advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and endomyocardial biopsy (EMB).

Methods: In total, 32 patients with persistent cardiac symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, 22 patients with acute classic myocarditis not related to COVID-19, and 16 healthy volunteers were included in this study and underwent a comprehensive baseline CMR scan. Of these, 10 patients post COVID-19 and 13 with non-COVID-19 myocarditis underwent a follow-up scan. In 10 of the post-COVID-19 and 15 of the non-COVID-19 patients with myocarditis endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) with histological, immunohistological, and molecular analysis was performed.

Results: In total, 10 (31%) patients with COVID-19 showed evidence of myocardial injury, eight (25%) presented with myocardial oedema, eight (25%) exhibited global or regional systolic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, and nine (28%) exhibited impaired right ventricular (RV) function. However, only three (9%) of COVID-19 patients fulfilled updated CMR–Lake Louise criteria (LLC) for acute myocarditis. Regarding EMB, none of the COVID-19 patients but 87% of the non-COVID-19 patients with myocarditis presented histological findings in keeping with acute or chronic inflammation. COVID-19 patients with severe disease on the WHO scale presented with reduced biventricular longitudinal function, increased RV mass, and longer native T1 times compared with those with only mild or moderate disease.

Conclusions: In our cohort, CMR and EMB findings revealed that SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with relatively mild but variable cardiac involvement. More symptomatic COVID-19 patients and those with higher clinical care demands were more likely to exhibit chronic inflammation and impaired cardiac function compared to patients with milder forms of the disease.