Permanent Tooth Agenesis and Associated Dental Anomalies among Orthodontically Treated Children

(1) Background: Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental dental anomalies often affecting the maxillary incisors area and premolar regions. (2) Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and distribution of permanent tooth agenesis and the associated dental abnormalities among orthodontically treated children. (3) Materials and Methods: This study was carried out utilizing 3000 pretreatment records of children who underwent orthodontic treatment, 1780 (59%) females and 1220 (41%) males, aged 10-25 years (mean age 15 years). Tooth agenesis and other dental anomalies were surveyed using their panoramic radiographs, according to gender, pattern, and location. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 using t-test or Chi-Square tests. (4) Results: The total number of missing teeth, excluding third molars, was 518 (17%) found in 326 (11%) children. The majority were the maxillary lateral incisors, which was 176 teeth (34%) (p < 0.05). Of them, 111 (63%) were in females, and 65 (37%) were in males. The second most common missing tooth was mandibular second premolars, which was 137 teeth (26%), followed by missing 73 (14%) maxillary second premolars. Impacted teeth had the highest associated dental anomaly prevalence (14.3%), while transposition showed the lowest anomaly prevalence (0.5%). (5) Conclusions: A prevalence of 11% for tooth agenesis was detected in this study. More teeth were missing in the maxilla compare with the mandible. A significant association was found between missing maxillary lateral incisors and missing premolars (p < 0.05). Associated dental anomalies included an increased number of peg-shaped maxillary lateral incisors, palatally displaced and impacted maxillary canines, ectopic teeth, and infra-occluded (submerged) primary second molars.

A cortical biomarker of audibility and processing efficacy in children with single-sided deafness using a cochlear implant

The goals of the current study were to evaluate audibility and cortical speech processing, and to provide insight into binaural processing in children with single-sided deafness (CHwSSD) using a cochlear implant (CI). The P1 potential to acoustically-presented speech stimuli (/m/, /g/, /t/) was recorded during monaural [Normal hearing (NH), CI], and bilateral (BIL, NH + CI) listening conditions within a clinical setting in 22 CHwSSD (mean age at CI/testing 4.7, 5.7 years). Robust P1 potentials were elicited in all children in the NH and BIL conditions. In the CI condition: (1) P1 prevalence was reduced yet was elicited in all but one child to at least one stimulus; (2) P1 latency was prolonged and amplitude was reduced, consequently leading to absence of binaural processing manifestations; (3) Correlation between P1 latency and age at CI/testing was weak and not significant; (4) P1 prevalence for /m/ was reduced and associated with CI manufacturer and duration of CI use. Results indicate that recording CAEPs to speech stimuli in clinical settings is feasible and valuable for the management of CHwSSD. While CAEPs provided evidence for effective audibility, a substantial mismatch in timing and synchrony of early-stage cortical processing between the CI and NH ear remains a barrier for the development of binaural interaction components.

5-year outcomes of patients with mitral structural valve deterioration treated with transcatheter valve in valve implantation

 

The Valve-in-Valve (ViV) technique is an emerging alternative for the treatment of bioprosthetic structural valve deterioration (SVD) in the mitral position. We report on intermediate-term outcomes of patients with symptomatic SVD in the mitral position who were treated by transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve (TM-ViV) implantation during the years 2010–2019 in our center. Three main outcomes were examined during the follow-up period: NYHA functional class, TM-ViV hemodynamic data per echocardiography, and mortality. Our cohort consisted of 49 patients (mean age 77.4±10.5 years, 65.3% female). The indications for TM-ViV were mainly for regurgitant pathology (77.6%). All 49 patients were treated with a balloon-expandable device. The procedure was performed via transapical access in 17 cases (34.7%) and transfemoral vein / trans-atrial septal puncture in 32 cases (65.3%). Mean follow-up was 4.4±2.0 years. 98% and 91% of patients were in NYHA I/II at 1 and 5 years respectively. Mitral regurgitation was ≥ moderate in 86.3% of patients prior to the procedure and this decreased to 0% (p&lt;0.001) following the procedure and was maintained over 2 years follow-up. The mean trans-mitral valve gradients decreased from pre-procedural values of 10.1±5.1mmHg to 7.0±2.4mmHg at one month following the procedure (p=0.03). Mortality at one year was 16% (95%, CI 5–26) and 35% (95%, CI 18–49) at 5 years. ViV in the mitral position offers an effective and durable treatment option for patients with SVD at high surgical risk.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Outcomes of intubation and endoscopic DCR in functional nasolacrimal duct obstruction

BACKGROUND

To ascertain the success of lacrimal intubation and DCR in alleviating epiphora due to functional nasolacrimal duct obstruction (FNLDO).

METHODS

Consecutive adult patients with epiphora attending a tertiary lacrimal clinic from May 2010 to February 2021 were reviewed to identify cases with FNLDO. FNLDO was defined as epiphora with the exclusion of alternate causes of watering on clinical examination, patent lacrimal syringing, normal DCG, and post-sac delay on DSG. Epiphora resolution and improvement rates in FNLDO were compared between lacrimal intubation and endo-DCR.

RESULTS

23 endo-DCRs (20 patients, 65% females, mean age 68.9±12.2) and 41 intubations (29 patients, 61.2% females, mean age 65.0±14.1) performed in FNLDO were included. Resolution of epiphora was achieved in 15 of the DCR procedures (median follow-up 9 months) compared to 14 of intubations (median follow-up 10 months). Significant epiphora improvement (i.e., either improvement or resolution) was noted in 21 DCRs and 24 intubations. Seven patients undergoing intubation as the primary procedure had endo-DCR performed following the intubation. Among respondents to a phone questionnaire, 53.8% who had endo-DCR (median 69 months) and 50% that had intubation (median 28 months) reported significant improvement in epiphora.

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in epiphora due to FNLDO was approximately 59% in intubations, while the success of endo-DCR was higher (91%). The long-term results of these interventions warrant further investigation.

Prospective study comparing simultaneous transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography aortic stenosis assessment

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the gold-standard for aortic stenosis (AS) assessment. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can be used alternatively, but measurement of hemodynamic components can be affected.

Purpose

We aimed to compare head-to-head TTE vs transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) assessment of AS.

Methods

We prospectively studied 56 patients with ≥moderate AS who underwent TTE (TTE1) and consecutive conscious sedation with simultaneous TEE and TTE (TTE2). Echocardiographic variables and AS types measured by TEE vs TTE2 and by TEE vs TTE1 were compared using paired tests and chi square tests. Based on conservative vs actionable implication, AS types were dichotomized into Group-A, comprising moderate and Normal-Flow Low-Gradient, and Group-B, comprising High-Gradient, Low Ejection-Fraction Low-Flow Low-Gradient, and Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient AS.

Results

TEE vs simultaneous TTE2 comparison demonstrated higher mean gradients (31.7 ± 10.5 vs 27.4 ± 10.5mmHg) and velocities (359 ± 60.6 vs 332 ± 63.1cm/sec) with TEE, but lower left ventricular outflow velocity-time-integral VTI1 (18.6 ± 5.1 vs 20.2 ± 6.1cm), all  p &lt; 0.001. This resulted in lower aortic valve area AVA (0.8 ± 0.21 vs 0.87 ± 0.28cm2), p &lt; 0.001, and a net relative-risk of 1.86 of Group A to B upgrade.  TEE vs (awake-state) TTE1 comparison revealed a larger decrease in VTI1 due to higher initial awake-state VTI1 (22 ± 5.6cm), resulting in similar Doppler-velocity-index (DVI) and AVA decrease with TEE, despite slight increase in mean gradients of 0.8mmHg (-1.44 to 3.04 CI) and in velocities of 10cm/sec (-1.5 to 23.4 CI). This translated into a net relative-risk of 1.92 of Group A to B upgrade vs TTE1.

Conclusions

TEE under conscious sedation overestimates AS severity compared with both awake state TTE and simultaneous sedation state TTE, accounted for by different Doppler insonation angle obtained in transapical vs transgastric position. The net result is a smaller DVI and AVA by TEE vs TTE. TEE carries a high sensitivity but a low specificity for severe AS compared with TTE during awake state. Abstract Figure. Spectral Doppler w/TTE vs simultan. TEE  Abstract Figure. Cardiac CT planes simulating TTE vs TEE

An Israeli national survey on ischemic colitis induced by pre-colonoscopy bowel preparation (R1)

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Ischemic colitis (IC) may occur as a complication of colonoscopy. The aim of this study was to characterize patients with IC that occurred after exposure to bowel preparation laxatives, prior to an elective colonoscopy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A survey among Israeli gastroenterologists. Information was collected regarding individual cases.

RESULTS

Eight patients, who developed IC after bisacodyl ingestion that was taken as part of pre-colonoscopy bowel preparation protocol, were reported. In all patients, severe abdominal pain and/or hematochezia started shortly after the ingestion of the first dose of bisacodyl. IC was found in 7 patients during the planned colonoscopy and in 1 patient using computerized tomography. All patients received supportive treatment and recovered.

CONCLUSIONS

IC induced by bisacodyl is a rare phenomenon. Regardless of being rare, we would advise withholding bisacodyl bowel preparation in elderly subjects with risk factors for IC that are scheduled for a colonoscopy.

Cardio-COVID clinic – a one-center experience

Background

Persistent symptoms affect a relatively large portion of coronavirus disease (COVID) survivors. Hence, specific clinics had been established in order to better characterize and manage this emerging entity of Post-COVID, among them our Cardio-COVID Clinic, which is dedicated to the cardiovascular (CV) aspects of the phenomenon.

Aim

To present the experience of our Cardio-COVID Clinic.

Methods

Included in this report are 76 adult patients seen at the clinic between June 2020 and March 2021, who have recovered from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID, and who were suspected by their referring physicians to experience ongoing cardiac sequelae. All participants underwent a structured assessment by a single cardiologist, which consisted of history taking, physical examination (PE), electrocardiogram (ECG), trans-thoracic echocardiogram (TTE), and further tests as deemed appropriate, including any combination of Holter, ischemic provocation test, cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and cardiac computed tomography (CCT).

Results

Initial visits occurred within a median of 131 days after diagnosis. Most participants (83%) were referred from our general Long-COVID Clinic. About half were males, and the mean age was 53 years. 18% of participants had prior CV conditions, and the majority (72%) had at least one CV risk factor, mostly dyslipidemia. Nearly all participants experienced a symptomatic acute illness, which was graded according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria as severe in 23% of the study cohort. As for Post-COVID, late symptoms were present in 97% of patients, the most common being dyspnea (57%). While PE was unremarkable in all but 3 patients who exhibited murmurs, ECG findings were revealed in 45% – mostly non-specific ST-T changes (31%) and conduction abnormalities (14%) – and TTE aberrations were discovered in 28% – including pericardial effusion (24%), reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (5%), grade 2 diastolic dysfunction (3%), moderate and up valvular dysfunction (1%), and systolic pulmonary hypertension (1%); right ventricular function was universally normal. Upon conclusion of the work-up, CV diagnoses were made in 8 (11%) patients – including myocarditis (4), myopericarditis (1), inappropriate sinus tachycardia (1), chronotropic incompetence (1), and an aberrant coronary (1). Of note, CPET and CMR had the highest diagnostic yield, in light of 57% positive results on each – followed by CCT, Holter, and provocation test. Interesting as well, among those with abnormal CMR findings, 40% had normal ECG's and TTE's. Also, none of the CV restraints on CPET translated to provocation test anomalies.

Conclusion

CV symptoms of Post-COVID are highly prevalent, but signify actual CV disease only in a minority of patients. Further research is needed that will help identify predictors for CV morbidity and define optimal clinical pathways.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Increased risk of non-hematological cancer in young patients with aortic stenosis: a retrospective cohort study

Background

We have previously reported an increased risk for non-hematological malignancies in young patients with moderate or severe aortic stenosis (AS) (1). These findings were the result of a post-hoc analysis from a large echocardiography database and needed verification.

Purpose

To determine, using a different study population, whether young patients with AS are at increased risk for cancer.

Methods

A large echocardiographic database was used to identify patients (age≥20 years) with moderate or severe AS (study group) and patients without aortic stenosis (comparative group). The new occurrence of non-hematological malignancies was determined after the index date (first echo with moderate or severe AS or first recorded echo in the control group).

Results

The final study group included 7,013 patients with AS and 98,884 without AS. During a median follow-up of 6.9 years (3.0–11.1) there were 10,705 new cases of non-hematological cancer. The crude incidence rate of cancer was higher in AS compared to non-AS patients (22.3 vs. 13.7 per 1,000 patient-year, crude HR 1.58 (95% CI 1.46–1.71). After adjustment for relevant covariates, there was no difference between groups (HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.86–1.01). Only patients in the lowest age quartile (20–49.7 years), had an increased adjusted risk of cancer (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.08–3.39). The HR for the risk of cancer in AS was inversely proportional to age (P&lt;0.001 for the interaction between AS and age) (Figure 1).

Conclusion

Young patients with moderate or severe AS are at increased risk for cancer. Cancer surveillance should be considered for young patients with AS.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1

Long term outcomes of patients with aortic structural valve deterioration treated with transcatheter valve in valve implantation

Introduction

The Valve-in-Valve (ViV) technique is an established alternative for the treatment of structural bioprosthetic valve deterioration (SVD). Data describing the long term follow up of patients treated with this approach is scarce. We report on our long-term follow up outcomes of patients with SVD in the Aortic position treated with ViV.

Methods

Included were patients with symptomatic SVD in the aortic position valve who were treated by Valve in valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (ViV-TAVI) during the years 20102019 in our center. Three main outcomes were examined during follow up: NYHA functional class, hemodynamic of the VIV-TAVI per echocardiography, and overall mortality.

Results

Our cohort consisted of 84 patients (mean age 78.8±8.9 years). The indications for aortic ViV were: SVD isolated aortic stenosis in 37.6%, SVD isolated aortic regurgitation in 42.2% and combined valve pathology in 20.0%. Self-expandable and balloon-expandable devices were used in 73 (85.9%) and 12 (14.1%), respectively. Average time of follow up was 3.74±2.4 years. 95% and 91% of patients were in NYHA functional class I/II at 1 and 5 year follow up respectively. At one year the mean trans-aortic valve pressure was 15.3±9.3 and rates of ≥ moderate aortic regurgitation were 3.7%. Survival was 91.4% (95% CI 85.6–97.7) at one year and 79.5% (95% CI 70.2–90.0) at 3 years.

Conclusion

ViV in the aortic position offers an effective and durable treatment option for patient with SVD, with low rates of all-cause mortality, excellent hemodynamic and improved functional capacity at 3 years follow up.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. NYHA functional class over follow up

Severe aortic stenosis echocardiographic thresholds revisited

Background

In view of inconsistencies in threshold values of severe aortic stenosis (AS) hemodynamic indices, it is unclear what is the relative contribution of each variable in a binary classification of AS based on aortic valve replacement (AVR) indication.

Purpose

Assess relative discriminative value and optimal threshold of each constituent hemodynamic parameter for this classification and confirm additional prognostic value.

Methods

Echocardiography studies of 168 patients with ≥ moderate AS were included. AS types were dichotomized based on intervention implication into two groups: Group-A, comprising moderate and Normal-Flow Low-Gradient (NFLG), and Group-B, comprising High-Gradient (HG), Low Ejection Fraction Low-Flow Low-Gradient (Low EF-LFLG), and Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient (PLFLG) AS. Aortic valve area (AVA), Doppler velocity index (DVI), peak aortic velocity, mean gradient and stroke volume index were assessed for A/B Group discrimination value and optimal thresholds were determined. Dichotomized values were assessed for predictive value for AVR or death.

Results

C-statistic values for binary AS classification was 0.74–0.9 for the tested variables. AVA and DVI featured the highest score, and SVI the lowest one. AVA≤0.81 cm2 and DVI≤0.249 had 87.6% and 86% respective sensitivity for Group B patients, and a similar specificity of 80.9%. During a mean follow-up of 9.1±10.1 months, each of the tested dichotomized variables except for SVI predicted AVR or death on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

An AVA value ≤0.81 cm2 or a DVI ≤0.249 threshold carry the highest discriminative value for severe AS in patients with aortic stenosis, translating into an independent prognostic value, and should be considered in clinical decisions.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Echo variables correlation with Group BSurvival curves for individual AS types

Management of chronic knee pain caused by postsurgical or posttraumatic neuroma of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve

PURPOSE

Injury to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve (IBSN) is a relatively common complication after knee surgery, which can interfere with patient satisfaction and functional outcome. In some cases, injury to the IBSN can lead to formation of a painful neuroma. The purpose of this study was to report the results of surgical treatment in a series of patients with IBSN painful neuroma.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 37 patients who underwent resection of IBSN painful neuroma at our institution, after failure of non-operative treatment for a minimum of 6 months. Injury to the IBSN resulted from prior orthopedic surgery, vascular surgery, tumor resection, trauma, or infection. Leg pain and health-related quality of life were measured using the numeric rating scale (NRS) and EuroQol 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire, respectively. Clinically meaningful improvement in leg pain was defined as reduction in NRS by at least 3 points. Predictors of favorable and unfavorable surgical outcome were investigated using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Patient-reported leg pain, health-related quality of life, and overall satisfaction with the surgical outcome were obtained at 94 ± 52.9 months after neuroma surgery. Postoperative patient-reported outcomes were available for 25 patients (68% of the cohort), of whom 20 patients (80.0%) reported improvement in leg pain, 17 patients (68.0%) reported clinically meaningful improvement in leg pain, and 17 patients (68%) reported improvement in health-related quality of life. The average NRS pain score improved from 9.43 ± 1.34 to 5.12 ± 3.33 (p < 0.01) and the average EQ-5D functional score improved from 10.48 ± 2.33 to 7.84 ± 2.19 (p < 0.01). Overall patient reported satisfaction with the surgical outcome was good to excellent for 18 patients (72.0%). Older age, multiple prior orthopedic knee surgeries, and failed prior attempts to resect an IBSN neuroma were associated with non-favorable surgical outcome.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that surgical intervention is efficacious for appropriately selected patients suffering from IBSN painful neuroma.

Natural history and disease progression of early cardiac amyloidosis evaluated by echocardiography

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Since the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is often delayed, echocardiographic findings are frequently indicative of already advanced cardiomyopathy.

Aims

to describe early echocardiographic features in patients subsequently diagnosed with CA and to delineate disease progression.

Methods

Pre-amyloid diagnosis echocardiographic studies were screened for structural and functional parameters and stratified according to the pathogenetic amyloid subtype (immunoglobulin light-chain (AL) or amyloid transthyretin (ATTR)). Abnormalities were defined based on published guidelines.

Results

Our cohort included 75 CA patients of whom 42 (56%) were diagnosed with AL and 33 (44%) with ATTR. Forty-two patients had an earlier echocardiography exam available for review. Patients presented with increased wall thickness (1.3 (IQR 1.0, 1.5)cm) ≥3 years before the diagnosis of CA and relative wall thickness (RWT) was increased (0.47 (IQR 0.41, 0.50)) ≥7 years pre-diagnosis. Between 1 to 3 years before CA diagnosis restrictive left ventricular (LV) filling pattern was present in 19% of patients and LV ejection fraction (LVEF)≤50% was present in 21% of patients. Right ventricular dysfunction was detected concomitantly with disease diagnosis. The echocardiographic phenotype of ATTR versus AL-CA showed increased RWT (0.74 (IQR 0.62, 0.92) vs. 0.62 (IQR 0.54, 0.76), p = 0.004) and LV mass index (144 (IQR 129, 191) vs. 115 (IQR 105, 146)g/m2,p = 0.020) and reduced LVEF (50 (IQR 44, 58) vs. (60 (IQR 53, 60)%, p = 0.009) throughout the time course of CA progression, albeit survival time was similar.

Conclusions

Increased wall thickness and diastolic dysfunction in CA develop over a time course of several years and can be diagnosed in their earlier stages by standard echocardiography

Abstract Figure. Schematic proposed timeline of CA

Proof of concept study on the utility of integrated transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography aortic stenosis assessment

Background

Integrated echo method (IEM) combining transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TTE/TEE) data can provide accurate aortic stenosis (AS) assessment. Our objectives were to evaluate the impact of IEM classification on mortality in AS patients.

Methods

Between 2016–2017, 63 out of 81 consecutive patients with at least moderate AS underwent comprehensive sequential TTE and TEE. AS types were determined by TTE and IEM (utilizing TEE planimetry of left ventricular outflow tract and highest Doppler spectral signals from both TTE and TEE). Based on conservative vs actionable implication, AS types were dichotomized into Group A, comprising moderate and Normal-Flow Low-Gradient (NFLG), and Group B, comprising High-Gradient (HG), Low ejection fraction Low-Flow Low-Gradient (Low EF LFLG), and Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient (PLFLG) AS. Survival under medical therapy was determined.

Results

Dichotomous classification was discordant in 15.9% of the patients with the two methods, with a relative risk of 1.55 of A to B Group re-classification with IEM (p&lt;0.001). The optimal cut-off value of TTE-determined AVA for AS classification was 0.82 cm2 (75% sensitivity and 87% specificity) vs an IEM-determined optimal AVA cut-off value of 0.92 cm2 (84.4% sensitivity and 76% specificity). During a median time of 9 months (quartiles 2.4–22 months) of follow-up under medical treatment, Group B patients had a worse survival under medical therapy than Group A patients, with additional independent prognostic value for Group A/B dichotomization by IEM in Group A (non-actionable) TTE-defined patients after multivariable adjustment (hazard ratio 5.3, confidence interval 1.39–20.3, p value=0.015).

Conclusions

IEM in patients with ambiguous AS severity can improve detection of patients who may benefit from early invasive therapy.

Graphical Abstract

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Ibuprofen use and clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients

Objective

It was recently suggested that ibuprofen might increase the risk for severe and fatal coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and should therefore be avoided in this patient population. We aimed to evaluate whether ibuprofen use in individuals with COVID-19 was associated with more severe disease, compared with individuals using paracetamol or no antipyretics.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study of patients with COVID-19 from Shamir Medical Centre, Israel, we monitored any use of ibuprofen from a week before diagnosis of COVID-19 throughout the disease. Primary outcomes were mortality and the need for respiratory support, including oxygen administration and mechanical ventilation.

Results

The study included 403 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with a median age of 45 years. Of the entire cohort, 44 patients (11%) needed respiratory support and 12 (3%) died. One hundred and seventy-nine (44%) patients had fever, with 32% using paracetamol and 22% using ibuprofen, for symptom-relief. In the ibuprofen group, 3 (3.4%) patients died, whereas in the non-ibuprofen group, 9 (2.8%) patients died (p 0.95). Nine (10.3%) patients from the ibuprofen group needed respiratory support, compared with 35 (11%) from the non-ibuprofen group (p 1). When compared with exclusive paracetamol users, no differences were observed in mortality rates or the need for respiratory support among patients using ibuprofen.

Conclusions

In this cohort of COVID-19 patients, ibuprofen use was not associated with worse clinical outcomes, compared with paracetamol or no antipyretic.

P1370 Correlation of aortic stenosis by integrated transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography with calcium score

Funding Acknowledgements

None

BACKGROUND

Aortic stenosis (AS) classification depends on left-ventricular ejection-fraction (LVEF &lt;≥50%), aortic valve area (AVA&lt;≥1cm2), mean pressure gradient (MG&lt;≥40mmHg), peak velocity&lt;≥400 cm/sec, and stroke-volume index (SVI&lt;≥35ml/m2). Aortic Valve Agatston CT score (AVC) correlates with AS severity by trans-thoracic echo (TTE), but its association with AS severity determined by integrated TTE and TEE is unknown.

PURPOSE

We investigated correlation of AVC with dichotomous AS grouping by Integrated TTE + TEE vs TTE only.

METHODS

64 TAVI candidates underwent sequential TTE and TEE, of which 24 underwent coronary CT within 4 months. Based on recommended conservative vs invasive treatment implication (A/B respectively), AS types were aggregated separately by TTE or Integrated TTE-TEE into two groups: Group-A (Moderate AS and Normal-Flow Low-Gradient), and Group-B (High-Gradient, Low-EF Low-Flow Low-Gradient, and Paradoxical Low-Flow Low-Gradient). Continuous and dichotomous AVC correlation (cutoffs based on guidelines) with echo binary classification was then determined.

RESULTS

Patients were 81.1(77.3-84.6) years old, 18(48.6%) were women, and had LVEF of 60% (49-65). AVC-score distribution in the two AS A/B Groups by two echo modalities is presented in the boxplot Figure. Only classification by TTE held discriminative accuracy in A/B grouping, with Area-Under-Curve of 0.736 (CI 0.57-0.9), and optimal threshold value of 1946 AU having 77% sensitivity and 74% specificity. Compared with AVC dichotomous classification, integrated TTE + TEE upgraded AS class (from A to B) in 5/6 (83.3%) patients vs 12/18 (66.7%) in which it downgraded AS class from B to A.

CONCLUSIONS

Aortic valve calcification correlates well with AS class dichotomized by operative implication through conventional TTE but not through integrated TTE + TEE. Our preliminary results appear to be caused by initial selection bias of patients in whom coronary CT performance was deemed to be justified by the treating physician rather than reflect a true better correlation between CT score and AS assessment by TTE vs by integrated TTE + TEE.

Abstract P1370 Figure.

P887Atrial fibrillation is associated with sudden cardiac death risk factors in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Background

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is prevalent in a fourth of patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), but its clinical impact in these patients remains ill-defined.

Aim

To compare clinical characteristics in HCM patients with vs without AF and assess indirectly potential sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk.

Methods

Retrospective study in a single tertiary referral HCM center. Patients with HCM and AF were compared with matched controlled HCM patients without AF. NYHA class was assessed by a single physician. Propensity score matching was performed with a ratio of 2:1 by nearest neighbor with adjustment for age, sex, and left ventricular tract obstruction (LVOTO). Ordinal regression was used with NYHA as outcome.

Results

Among 298 patients with HCM, 68 patients (22.8%) had AF. After propensity matching, 66 patients with AF and 112 without AF had similar distribution of age (67.1 vs. 65.1 years), gender (57.6% vs. 61% males) and Basal Surface Area (1.88 vs. 1.87 m2) respectively. The prevalence of LVOTO (57.6% vs. 58.5%) and apical hypertrophy (19.7% vs 19.5%) was similar in the two groups. Cardiac risk factors including Hypertension (60.6% vs. 60.2%) and Diabetes Mellitus (15.2 vs. 20.3%) were similar in both groups. AF patients were diagnosed with HCM at a younger age than patients without HCM (48.5 vs. 55 years; p=0.01). HCM patients with AF had significantly lower LVOT gradients compared with patients without AF (28.1 mmHg vs 47.4 mmHg, p=0.005), had a higher prevalence of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (39.4% vs. 9.4%; p<0.01), and ventricular tachycardia (9.1% vs 1.7%; p<0.04) and were more likely to have undergone implantation of an internal cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) (23.1% vs. 8.5%; p=0.001), respectively. Dyspnea was the most prevalent symptom in both groups (51.1% and 46.6% in AF and non-AF respectively). NYHA Class was similar in both groups: 1.88±0.69 in patients with AF vs. 1.73±0.74 in patients without AF (p=0.17). NYHA class did not differ in 26 patients with chronic persistent AF vs. 42 patients with paroxysmal AF (being in sinus rhythm at evaluation).

Conclusion

AF does not seem to impact functional level class in patients with HCM, but carries a higher burden of sudden cardiac death prognostic factors, incurring a higher rate of ICD implantation.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

Agenesis of Permanent Canines in Orthodontic Patients: Prevalence, Location, Treatment Options and Outcomes

Purpose: Tooth agenesis is one of the most common anomalies of the human dentition, found most often in the maxillary anterior region and in the mandibular and maxillary premolar regions. Little information is available on the prevalence and distribution of permanent canine agenesis. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of permanent canine agenesis in orthodontic patients and describe treatment options and outcomes. Methods: The records of 3,000 consecutively treated patients in the Department of Orthodontics, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel were reviewed. The pre-treatment facial and intraoral clinical photographs as well as panoramic and periapical radiographs were used to detect permanent canine agenesis in both dental arches. The data were recorded according to sex, age, number of missing canines, and their location. Results: Twenty-three patients (0.76 percent), nine males (39 percent) and 14 females (61 percent) had 38 congenitally missing canines. Of these, 22 (58 percent) were missing in the maxilla and 16 (42 percent) were missing in the mandible. Conclusions: The overall prevalence of missing permanent canines in our population was 0.76 percent. The female-to-male prevalence ratio was approximately three to two and more canines were missing in the maxilla than in the mandible.

Nonsyndromic orofacial clefts among Jews and non-Jews born in 13 hospitals in Israel during 1993-2005

OBJECTIVES

Orofacial clefts are one of the most common birth malformations and represent a significant public health economic expenditure. The purpose of this investigation was to study the epidemiology of orofacial clefts in newborns from 1993 to 2005 in Israel. In addition, a comparison of data from the National Birth Defects Registry (NBDR) and Hospital records will be made.

METHODS

A retrospective data review of reports to the Israeli NBDR on infants with orofacial clefts in comparison with records reviewed at 13 major hospitals, accounting for 60% of all births in Israel.

RESULTS

Of 1334 newborns found to be with orofacial clefts all over Israel between 1993 and 2005, 1015 were reported to the NBDR and 319 were unreported but retrieved from hospital files. During this period, of the 976 578 live births found in the 13 participating hospitals, there were 866 newborns with orofacial clefts. Of those, 684 (79%) were nonsyndromic orofacial clefts and 182 (21%) had additional syndromes. The prevalence of nonsyndromic orofacial clefts was 7/10 000 live births, lower than reported outside Israel. Only 65% of orofacial clefts retrieved from the 13 hospitals were reported to the NBDR. A significantly higher orofacial cleft prevalence was found among non-Jews than Jews (11 and 6 of 10 000 live births, respectively), (P < .00 001). CL/P was found more frequently than isolated cleft palate (CP). More males had orofacial clefts than females, mostly unilateral with left side predominance.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of nonsyndromic orofacial clefts was found to be 7/10 000 live births. The higher orofacial cleft prevalence among non-Jews may be explained by the high prevalence of consanguinity and deprived maternal nutritional status in this population.

Anaesthetic Considerations in Facial Reconstruction for Down'S Syndrome

Sixty-three patients with Down's syndrome underwent facial reconstructive surgery under general anaesthesia in order to improve their acceptability and potential for functioning effectively in society. Preoperatively, one-third of the patients had respiratory illnesses, 11 (17.5%) had cardiac anomalies, and 5 (7.9%) had endocrinological abnormalities. Anaesthesia was based on spontaneous ventilation of halothane and N2O in oxygen via an endotracheal tube with appropriate monitoring. Only one patient had an intraoperative complication, an episode of ventricular dysrhythmia, but postoperatively 9 patients required nasopharyngeal airways or endotracheal intubation in order to maintain a patent upper airway. The anaesthetic considerations for facial reconstructive surgery in Down's syndrome are discussed.

Hearing threshold shifts among military pilots of the Israeli Air Force

Background

Military aviators are potentially at risk for developing noise-induced hearing loss. Whether ambient aircraft noise exposure causes hearing deficit beyond the changes attributed to natural ageing is debated. The aim of this research was to assess changes in hearing thresholds of Israeli Air Force (IAF) pilots over 20 years of military service and identify potential risk factors for hearing loss.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted of pure-tone air conduction audiograms of pilots, from their recruitment at 18 years of age until the last documented medical check-up. Mean hearing thresholds were analysed in relation to age, total flight hours and aircraft platform. Comparisons were made to the hearing thresholds of air traffic controllers (ATCs) who were not exposed to the noise generated by aircraft while on duty.

Results

One hundred and sixty-three pilots were included, with flying platforms ranging from fighter jets (n=54), combat helicopters (n=27), transport helicopters (n=52) and transport aircraft (n=30). These were compared with the results from 17 ATCs. A marked notch in the frequency range of 4–6 kHz was demonstrated in the mean audiograms of all platforms pilots, progressing with ageing. Hearing threshold shifts in relation to measurements at recruitment were first noted at the age of 30 years, particularly at 4 kHz (mean shift of 2.97 dB, p=0.001). There was no statistical association between flying variables and hearing thresholds adjusted for age by logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

The audiometric profile of IAF pilots has a pattern compatible with noise exposure, as reflected by characteristic noise notch. However, no flight variable was associated with deterioration of hearing thresholds, and no significant difference from non-flying controls (ATCs) was seen.

Fused and Geminated Permanent Maxillary Central Incisors: Prevalence, Treatment Options, and Outcome in Orthodontic Patients

PURPOSE

Developmental disturbances during tooth formation may cause abnormalities in tooth size and shape, resulting in poor dental and facial esthetics. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of fused/geminated teeth in the maxillary anterior region of orthodontically treated patients, and present treatment options and their outcome.

METHODS

Pre- and post-treatment facial and intraoral photographs, study models, and panoramic and periapical radiographs of 574 consecutively treated patients (mean age: 13.3 years) from the orthodontic department were examined for the presence of fusion or gemination in the maxillary anterior region.

RESULTS

There were eight patients (1.4 percent) with fused/geminated teeth in the maxillary anterior region.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence found is relatively high compared to previous reports. Esthetic consideration is a determining factor for various treatment alternatives. A multidisciplinary approach is imperative for the successful treatment of these dental abnormalities.

Neutrophil functions in morbidly obese subjects

The present study aimed to determine different peripheral blood neutrophil functions in 18 morbidly obese subjects with body mass index (BMI) ranging between 35 and 69 kg/m(2) in parallel with age- and gender-matched lean controls. Peripheral blood neutrophil functions of obese subjects and matched lean controls were determined. Neutrophils of obese subjects showed significant elevation of the release of basal superoxides (P < 0.0001), formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-stimulated superoxides (P < 0.0001) and opsonized zymosan (OZ)-stimulated superoxides (P < 0.045) compared with lean controls. Interestingly, there were no differences in phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-stimulated superoxide production by neutrophils of the obese subjects and controls. There was also a significant elevation of chemotactic (P < 0.0003) and random (P < 0.0001) migration of neutrophils from obese subjects compared with lean controls. Phagocytosis, CD11b surface expression and adherence of neutrophils from obese subjects were not significantly different from those of the lean controls. The elevated superoxide production and chemotactic activity, together with the normal phagocytosis and adherence, suggest that neutrophils from obese subjects are primed and have the capability to combat infections. However, neutrophils in the priming state may participate in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases.

Prevalence of non-syndromic orofacial clefts among Jews and Arabs, by type, site, gender and geography: a multi-center study in Israel

BACKGROUND

Orofacial clefts are the most common craniofacial congenital malformations, with significant anatomic, ethnic, racial and gender differences.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence, distribution and characteristic features of various types of non-syndromic clefts among Israeli Jews and Arabs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective multi-center survey in 13 major hospitals in Israel for the period 1993-2005. To obtain the true prevalence and detailed clinical characteristics, data on liveborn infants with non-syndromic clefts were obtained from the Ministry of Health's National Birth Defect Registry and completed by chart reviews in the 13 surveyed hospitals.

RESULTS

Of 976,578 liveborn infants, 684 presented unilateral or bilateral clefts, with a prevalence of 7.00/10,000 live births; 479 were Jews and 205 were Arabs. The prevalence was higher among Arabs compared to Jews (11.12 and 6.22 per 10,000 live births in Arabs and Jews, respectively, P 0.00001). Males had higher cleft rates than females (7.69/10,000 and 6.17/10,000 live births, respectively, P = 0.05). Males had more cleft lips (P < 0.05) and cleft lips with cleft palate (P < 0.001). There was left-side predominance. Newborns of younger mothers (age < 20 years) and of older mothers (age ≥ 45 years) had higher cleft rates than those with mothers in the 20-44 year bracket (P < 0.009). Children born at or above the 5th birth order had a higher cleft rate (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of non-syndromic clefts was 7.00/10,000 live births. The markedly higher rate in Arabs is related to the high rate of consanguinity. Both very young and old maternal age represents a higher risk of clefts in their offspring.

Conservative orthodontic treatment for skeletal open bite associated with amelogenesis imperfecta

Amelogenesis imperfect (AI) is a hereditary dental condition that affects tooth enamel, resulting in small and discolored teeth, tooth sensitivity, poor esthetics, and anterior open bite associated with severe discrepancy in the vertical relation of the jaws. Treatment can be complex and includes an interdisciplinary approach involving orthodontics, oral surgery, and restorative therapy. The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a 12-year-old girl with AI and severe open bite who received conservative, non-surgical therapy that led to good functional occlusion and acceptable dental and facial esthetics. A three-year follow-up showed excellent post-treatment stability.

Mandibular second molar impaction. Part I: Genetic traits and characteristics

INTRODUCTION

Detection of mandibular second molar (MM2) impaction is imperative for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment. In this study, we examined a possible genetic trait in MM2 impaction in 2 populations and defined distinctive characteristics.

METHODS

Initial panoramic radiographs of patients of Israeli (n = 3500) and Chinese-American (n = 3000) origin, aged 11 to 15 years, were examined. Twelve distinctive characteristics were compared between the unilateral impacted and the nonimpacted sides.

RESULTS

A total of 120 subjects with MM2 impaction were found (1.8%). The Chinese-American population had a higher prevalence (n = 71, 2.3%) of MM2 impaction compared with the Israeli population (n = 49, 1.4%; P = 0.004). For the subjects with MM2 impaction, the Israelis had significantly (P = 0.039) fewer bilateral impactions (27%) than did the Chinese-Americans (45%). Mesially inclined impacted MM2s were more common (88% and 89%) in the Israeli and Chinese-American populations, respectively. The unilateral impacted side demonstrated reductions in the distance between the mandibular first molar and the ramus (P <0.001), the length of the mesial root of the MM2 (P <0.001), and the height between the MM2 and the mandibular third molar, and increases in the angulations of the MM2 (P <0.001) and the mandibular third molar (P <0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

An autosomal genetic trait is present in MM2 impaction with greater penetrance in the Chinese-American population. Within developmental impediments, the deficient mesial root length of the MM2 is the primary impaction factor.

Low-dose ketamine affects immune responses in humans during the early postoperative period

BACKGROUND

Anaesthesia and surgery are associated with impairment of the immune system expressed as an excessive proinflammatory immune response and suppression of cell-mediated immunity that may affect the course of the postoperative period. Addition of anaesthetic agents capable of attenuating the alterations in perioperative immune function may exert a favourable effect on patients' healing. We have assessed the effect of preoperative administration of a sub-anaesthetic dose of ketamine on the mitogen response and production of interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-2, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), as well as natural killer cell cytotoxicity (NKCC) in patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

METHODS

Seventeen patients admitted for elective abdominal surgery were given ketamine 0.15 mg kg(-1) i.v. 5 min before induction of general anaesthesia. Nineteen patients received a similar volume of isotonic saline 5 min before induction of the anaesthesia. PBMCs were isolated from venous blood before and 4, 24, 48, and 72 h after operation for IL-1beta, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-alpha secretion, and NKCC assessment.

RESULTS

Four hours after operation, the cells from patients in the ketamine group showed a significantly suppressed production of IL-6 (P < 0.01) compared with controls. The production of IL-2 did not change from that of the preoperation samples. TNF-alpha secretion was significantly elevated in the control group 4 h after operation (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of small doses of ketamine before induction of anaesthesia resulted in attenuation of secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-alpha, and in preservation of IL-2 production at its preoperative level. It is suggested that this anaesthetic may be of value in preventing immune function alterations in the early postoperative period.

Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography during valve replacement surgery. A review

Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (IOTEE) has become an important diagnostic and monitoring tool in the operating theatre during cardiac and noncardiac operations. However, its routine application during valve replacement operations has not received universal recognition. The cumulative experience, brought up in this review, shows that IOTEE is invaluable during valve replacement operations. It has an important role in the consolidation of operative strategy, although it is generally better to obtain all the anatomical and physiological data and the resultant operative strategy in advance, outside the operating room environment. Important data influencing the operative plan has been reported in 3-29% of operations in various studies. The postpump IOTEE is also essential for numerous reasons: it can rule out important misfortunes, such as leaflet immobilization or perivalvular leak, leaky bioprosthesis or coronary obstruction due to valve struts, and is responsible for second pump-run in 3-6% of cases; it is essential in monitoring the deairing process; it provides the surgeon and the anesthesiologist data on biventricular function and volume and exclusion of dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, and, therefore, guides pharmacotherapy, volume handling and mechanical assistance, including intra-aortic balloon pump indication and location. In conclusion, IOTEE is an essential tool in patients undergoing valve replacement operations, and should be used on a standard basis.

''BioGlue'' as a possible cause of acute blocked mechanical mitral valve leaflet

A young patient with aortic and mitral valve infective endocarditis and advanced destruction of the surrounding tissues underwent a complex reconstructive surgery, including double valve replacement, reconstruction of aortic-mitral continuity and ascending aorta. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed a blocked mitral leaflet, which was released by valve cleaning and reorientation. The application of biological glue may be a key point for this complication.

Unusual intraosseous transmigration of a palatally impacted canine

Intraosseous migration of impacted teeth across the midline to the opposite side of the jaw is a rare dental anomaly of unknown etiology. Transmigration of an impacted mandibular canine through the symphysis to the contralateral side of the arch has been documented. Transmigration of an impacted maxillary canine across the midpalatal suture to the opposite side of the maxilla has not been previously observed and is reported here for the first time.

Intrabony migration of impacted teeth

Intrabony migration of impacted teeth is a rare dental anomaly, which occurs only in the permanent dentition of the lower jaw. The teeth involved in this phenomenon are the mandibular lateral incisor, canine, and second premolar. Migration of the lateral incisor is usually in a distal direction, resulting in transposition with the canine. Migration of the canine is most frequently in a mesial direction, resulting in transmigration across the mandibular symphysis to the opposite side of the dental arch. The second premolar most often migrates distally, sometimes past the gonial angle and as far as the coronoid process. Surgical and orthodontic treatment options are presented for the three intrabony migrating teeth.

Early detection and prevention of mandibular tooth transposition

Distal migration of the mandibular permanent lateral incisor happens rarely and it can be discovered radiographically in the early mixed dentition. If unattended, the tooth may erupt ectopically, usually distal to its normal anatomical position and occlusal to the developing first premolar, and it can become transposed with the permanent canine. Early detection and immediate interceptive removal of the retained deciduous lateral incisor and canine, followed by uprighting the ectopic lateral incisor to its normal anatomical position in the arch, will intercept the problem and prevent the developing transposition.

[Management of the pediatric dental patient with seizure disorder: prevention and treatment of emergencies]

Seizures are not infrequent in childhood and may occur during dental treatment. Generalized seizures and particularly the Tonic-clonic (grand-mal) are the most hazardous and may induce self-injury, aspiration, and medical emergency as status epilepticus. The differential diagnosis of isolated seizure attack should consider hyperventilation, hyperglycemia, local anesthetic toxicity, and anoxia. The pediatric dentist should be aware of predisposing factors that may induce seizure attack in their patients. Proper precautionary measures could prevent the attack from occurring or at least reduce its consequences. The diagnosis as to the cause of the seizure, as well as providing proper management, could prevent further complications. This article presents the medical and dental history relevant for prevention of seizure attack in the dental chair, antiepileptic drugs with possible interactions with the dental treatment and management of such attack, should they occurs.

[Emergencies evolving from local anesthesia in the pediatric dental clinic: prevention and treatment]

A wide range of drugs and dental materials may be used when providing treatment to children. Routine medical and dental history may not provide all the necessary information to prevent allergic reactions, since young patients may be exposed to some of these drugs for the first time in the dental chair. The dentist should be prepared through training to reduce and at the same manage unwanted side effects. This article focuses on the possible adverse reactions following injection of local anesthetics; mainly, allergic and toxic side effects. Signs and symptoms are described and differential diagnosis is considered. The limited and absolute contraindication for administering some common local anesthetics is presented and local anesthetic drug interactions and toxicity relevant to pediatric patients are reviewed.