Ascending Aorta Replacement Research Articles

Comparison of Bretschneider HTK cardioplegia solution and blood cardioplegia in terms of postoperative results in patients who underwent isolated supracoronary ascending aortic replacement.

Cardiac arrest with cardioplegia is the most common and reliable method of myocardial protection in cardiac surgery, but there is no definite consensus on the use of different types of cardioplegia. Two of the commonly used types of cardioplegia are Bretschneider histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate solution (Custodiol) and conventional blood cardioplegia. In this study, Custodiol solution and conventional blood cardioplegia used in patients with type A aortic dissection who underwent supracoronary ascending aortic replacement were aimed to be compared in terms of postoperative results. 70 patients with type A aortic dissection who underwent supracoronary ascending aortic replacement in our clinic between January 2011 - October 2020 were included. Patients were divided into two groups, blood cardioplegia group (n = 48) and Custodiol group (n = 22) and they were compared regarding preoperative, perioperative and postoperative variables. There was no significant difference between cardiopulmonary bypass time and cross-clamp time (p = 0.17 and p = 0.16, respectively). Mechanical ventilator weaning time, intensive care unit stay and hospital stay were shorter in Custodiol group (p = 0.04,p = 0.03 and p = 0.05, respectively). While inotropic support need was higher in the blood cardioplegia group (p = 0.001), there was no significant difference in terms of mortality, arrhythmia, neurological complications and renal complications. Our results show that Custodiol cardioplegia solution may be superior to blood cardioplegia in reducing mechanical ventilation weaning period, intensive care and hospital stay, and reducing the use of inotropic agents in patients with type A aortic dissection undergoing supracoronary ascending aorta replacement.

Endoscopic aortic valve surgery in isolated and concomitant procedures.

To evaluate early outcomes of endoscopic aortic valve replacement and risks of concomitant procedures done through the same working port. At our institution we performed a data analysis of 342 consecutive patients (from July 2013 to May 2021) that underwent endoscopic aortic valve replacement with or without associated major procedure. Pre-operative, intraoperative, post-operative data were evaluated. Subsequently we perform a comparative analysis between the isolated and concomitant surgery group. The surgical access was a 3-4 cm working port in the second right intercostal space and 3 additional 5 mm mini-ports for the introduction of the thoracoscope, the transthoracic clamp and the vent line. Cardiopulmonary by-pass was achieved through peripheral cannulation. 105 patients (30.7%) underwent combined procedure: 2 coronary artery bypass (1.9%), 21 ascending aorta replacement (19.6%), 41 mitral surgery (38.3%), 16 mitral and tricuspid surgery (15%), 25 other procedure (27%). Death occurred in 1 patient (0.4%) in the isolated group versus 2 patients (1.9%) in the combined group (p = 0.175). Seven strokes were observed, 4 in isolated procedures (1.7%) and 3 in the concomitant ones (2.85%) (p = 0.481). Surgical revision for bleeding was performed always through the same access in 13 patients (5.4%) versus 11 patients (10.4%) (p = 0.096). Pace maker implantation was necessary in 5 patients (2.1%) versus 8 patients (7,6%) (p = 0.014). Median intubation time was 5 [2] hours versus 6 [8] (p < 0.080). Through a single working port made for endoscopic aortic valve replacement a concomitant procedure may be done without affecting in-hospital mortality and post-operative stroke rate.

P151 UTILITY OF MULTIMODALITY IMAGING IN A CASE OF MULTIPLE AORTIC POST–ENDOCARDITIS PSEUDOANEURYSMS

Abstract Introduction First–line therapy for infective endocarditis is antibiotic treatment to avoid the occurrence of complications such as septic embolization, septic shock (1), pseudoaneurysm or abscess formation (1). A pseudoaneurysm is a cavity that communicates with the vascular lumen and develops as a result of necrosis of the infected tissue (1). Case report: An 81–year–old man with past medical history of aortic valve replacement with bioprosthesis for severe stenosis and re–intervention for infective Enterococcus faecalis endocarditis was admitted to hospital for hyperpyrexia. PET–CT scan was performed. An aortic bioprosthesis hypercaptation suggestive of endocarditis recurrence was found. Blood cultures were positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis. Transesophageal echocardiography was initially negative for vegetations. Therefore, it was decided for a conservative approach with antibiotic therapy. About 2 months later the patient presented in our emergency department with atypical chest pain. At a transthoracic echocardiogram was reported an eccentric paravalvular regurgitation jet on bioprosthesis in atypical position and thickening of the periaortic tissue (Fig 1A). A contrast enhanced cardio–synchronized CT scan was performed confirming the presence of three paravalvular aortic pseudoaneurysms, the largest of 16x8 mm and located on the posterolateral portion of the valvular ring near to the left atrial wall (Fig 1B). Finally, a transesophageal echocardiogram was repeated finding a fistula from the posterior pseudoaneurysm to the left ventricular outflow tract (Fig 1C). The patient underwent re–intervention of aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement. Conclusions In this case–report, the use of multimodality imaging allowed adequate diagnosis of fistulizing paravalvular aortic pseudoaneurysms and proper subsequent surgical planning. The results of this case report suggest that following infective endocarditis presence of paravalvular aortic regurgitation with eccentric jet should be investigated with second–level diagnostic examinations for better anatomic resolution, such as cardio–synchronized CT and transesophageal echocardiogram. Bibliography: 1. Okada K et al. doi: 10.1007/s11748–012–0152–x

P272 ROLE OF 3D TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY IN DIANOSIS OF DYSFUNCTION OF MECHANICAL PROSTHESES

Abstract Infections with endocardial vegetation or the exuberant growth of neoendothelialization tissue (cloth –tissue overgrowth) in heart valve prostheses lead, among other complications, to the malfunction of the prostheses themselves due to obstruction. Among the diagnostic methods available to us, to achieve the diagnosis of prosthetic dysfunction, in recent years three–dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TTE) has become increasingly imposed. We present two clinical cases of patients admitted to our Cardiology department Case 1: Patient of 62 years old, hospitalized for established congestive heart failure. In 2006 he underwent ascending aorta replacement with Dacron 28 prosthesis and aortic valve replacement with mechanical prosthesis (Sorin 25) for aortic bicuspid and ascending aortic aneurysm. During the last follow–up was observed a slight increase in the value of intraprosthetic gradients, as well as a variability in INR values. Physical examination showed signs of heart failure (NT–ProBNP &amp;gt;1000 pg/ml); normal inflammation indices (PCR &amp;lt;2.9 mg/l); ECG: sinus rhythm at 85 bpm with left ventricular overload; trans–thoracic echocardiography showed severe intraprosthetic aortic gradient (Gmax 132mmHg–Gmed 72mmHg), doubtful for cloth adhered to prosthetic discs; 3D TTE shoved hyperechoreflective image adhered to the posterior mobile element (5x9mm) which was fixed in semi–closure. Subsequently, the patient underwent prosthetic replacement surgery with biological prosthesis. Case 2: Patient of 67 years old, heavy smoker, hypertensive, with aortic mechanical prosthesis, a few weeks before hospitalized for Corynebacterium Jeikeium infection. Hospitalized again for fever with increased inflammation indices (CRP 202mg/l). A first TTE concluded for suspected endocarditis of the prosthesis; this doubt was also dissolved by 3D TTE which showed a soft protruding image of the posterior mobile element, preventing the opening and determining severe stenosis (Gmax 160mmHg–Gmed of 80 mmHg), so this patients was transferred to the cardiac surgery department. Conclusions 3D TTE is a method of rapid and safe execution that can be exploited not only pre– or intraoperatively but also to settle diagnostic suspicions not clarified by traditional 2d methods, even managing to distinguish cloth deposits from vegetation / abscesses.

PO-01-020 PERI-OPERATIVE AMIODARONE PROPHYLAXIS IN CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY: IMPACTS ON POST-OPERATIVE LENGTH OF STAY ACCORDING TO PROCEDURE TYPES

Post-operative Atrial Fibrillation (POAF), occurring in nearly 20-50 percent of cardiovascular surgery (CVS) patients, is associated with prolonged hospitalization and excess costs of care. Peri-operative Amiodarone prophylaxis has been an effective strategy to reduce the incidence of POAF. A retrospective evaluation of the impact of Amiodarone prophylaxis on post-operative length of hospital (LOS) stay, according to CVS procedure types. Hospitalization information was available for 2704 consecutive CVS patients at a single tertiary care centre (2013-2016). CVS included standalone, or combined procedures that involved: valvular heart surgery (VHS), coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), and other miscellaneous procedures (e.g. ascending aorta replacement, endarterectomy). Hierarchical linear regression was used to evaluate the impact of Amiodarone prophylaxis on LOS, adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics. Among the 2704 patients, there were 866 (32.0%) cases of POAF. LOS, was significantly longer in patients with POAF (+2.78 days, p<0.001). LOS was 1.62 days shorter in patients who received Amiodarone prophylaxis (p=0.007). Within all operative categories, LOS was shorter in patients receiving amiodarone prophylaxis, though statistical significance was only observed in VHS (including VHS + other) and VHS + CABG procedure types. Specifically, Amiodarone prophylaxis was associated with shorter LOS among: patients who had CABG but not VHS (8.26 versus 9.45 days, p= 0.29), patients who had VHS but not CABG (7.62 versus 11.02 days, p<0.001), patients undergoing VHS + CABG (9.36 vs. 12.41 days, p<0.03), and patients undergoing VHS + CABG + other (13.54 versus 15.09 days, p= 0.74). After adjusting for demographic-clinical covariates in a hierarchical multiple regression, Amiodarone prophylaxis remained an independent predictor of shorter LOS (b= -2.3 [-3.7, -0.93], p= 0.001). Other independent predictors included: left atrial diameter of >40 mm (b= 1.7 [0.90, 2.85], p< 0.001), female sex (b= 1.4 [0.56, 2.19], p= 0.001), history of heart failure (b= 2.1 [0.94, 3.30], p< 0.001), and CVS involving VHS + CABG (b= 1.4 [0.15, 2.67], p= 0.03), and VHS + CABG + other (b= 5.1 [2.51, 7.72], p<0.001). Amiodarone prophylaxis is independently associated with significantly shorter LOS following CVS.

Clinical analysis of 11 cases of pregnancy with aortic dissection

Objective: To investigate the treatment and maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnant women with aortic dissection (AD). Methods: The clinical data of 11 pregnant women with AD treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University from January 1st, 2011 to August 1st, 2022 were collected, and their clinical characteristics, treatment plans and maternal and fetal outcomes were analyzed retrospectively. Results: (1) Clinical characteristics: the age of onset of 11 pregnant women with AD was (30±5) years old, and the week of pregnancy of onset was (31.4±8.0) weeks. Clinical manifestations: the main symptoms were sudden onset of chest and back pain or low back pain. Type of AD: 8 cases of Stanford type A, and 3 cases of type B. The aortic width was (42±11) mm. Diagnostic methods: the diagnosis of AD was confirmed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), computed tomography angiography (CTA) or enhanced CT examination, among which 4 cases were confirmed by CTA examination, 4 cases by TTE examination, and 3 cases by enhanced CT examination. Laboratory results: white blood cell count was (15.4±8.7) ×109/L, neutrophil count was (13.5±8.5) ×109/L, the median D-dimer level was 2.7 mg/L (2.1-9.2 mg/L), and the median fibrin degradation products level was 12.0 mg/L (5.4-36.1 mg/L). (2) Treatments: all 11 patients were admitted to hospital in emergency. Before operation, the departments of cardiac surgery, obstetrics, pediatrics and anesthesiology cooperated to develop individualized treatment plan. Aortic surgery was performed in 11 pregnant women with AD. In 6 of them, pregnancy termination was performed at the same time as aortic surgery, and aortic surgery was performed after cesarean section. Four cases of pregnancy termination and aortic operation were performed by stages, including aortic operation after cesarean section in 2 cases, and cesarean section after aortic operation in 2 cases. One case (12+6 weeks of gestation) had spontaneous abortion on the day after aortic surgery. The gestational age of the 11 patients on pregnancy termination was (32.9±7.4) weeks. Aorta surgical methods: 7 patients received under extracorporeal circulation ascending aorta replacement ± aortic valve replacement ± coronary artery transplantation (or coronary artery bypass transplantation)± left and right coronary Cabrol + total arch replacement (or aortic arch replacement)± stent implantation, 1 patient received under extracorporeal circulation aortic root replacement, and 3 patients underwent aortic endoluminal isolation. (3) Maternal and fetal outcomes: among the 11 pregnant women with AD, 9 (9/11) survived, 2 (2/11) died with lower limb ischemia before the onset of the disease. A total of 10 newborns were born in 9 pregnant women after delivery (1 of them was twins), and the 2 cases were spontaneous abortion after aortic surgery in the first trimester (12+6 weeks) and fetal death after hysterotomy in the second trimester (26+3 weeks), respectively. Among the 10 surviving neonates, 3 were full-term infants and 7 were premature infants. The birth weight of newborn was (2 651±784) g. Respiratory distress syndrome was found in 6 cases. The newborns were followed up for (5.6±3.6) years after birth, and the infants developed well during the follow-up period. Conclusions: Pregnancy complicated with AD is dangerous, and chest and back pain is the main clinical manifestation of this disease. With early identification and selection of appropriate diagnostic methods, multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment, mother and children could obtain good outcomes.

Management of chronic Stanford type A aortic dissection combined with Neri type C coronary occlusion: a case report and literature review

While there are many reports on partial aortic root remodelling, it is rarely performed for chronic aortic dissection of the coronary artery. This case report describes a 71-year-old male patient with chronic aortic dissection who was admitted to hospital due to repeated palpitations and chest distress. He had a long-term occlusion of the right coronary artery and an abnormal origin of the left vertebral artery. A carefully planned surgical strategy was arranged for this patient, and the surgical experience is described and discussed herein. Briefly, the patient was treated by aortic root repair plus ascending aorta replacement plus Sun's procedure plus left vertebral artery graft implantation plus coronary artery bypass graft (right coronary artery to saphenous vein to innominate artery). At approximately 6 months following surgery, the patient had returned to normal living conditions without any reports of discomfort.

Simplified total arch reconstruction with a stented graft for extended aortic arch dilation.

Reconstruction of the aortic arch and its three supra-aortic vessels remains a great surgical challenge with postoperative complications. We present a simplified total arch reconstruction with a modified stent graft (s-TAR) and compared its operative outcomes with conventional total arch replacement (c-TAR). This retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from all consecutive patients who had ascending aortic aneurysm with extended aortic arch dilation and underwent simultaneous ascending aorta replacement and aortic arch reconstruction with the s-TAR or c-TAR between 2018 and 2021. The indication for intervention was maximum diameter of ascending aorta >55 mm and aortic arch in zone II >35 mm. A total of 84 patients were analyzed: 43 in the s-TAR group and 41 in the c-TAR group. No inter-group differences were found for sex, age, comorbidities, or EuroSCORE II results. All patients were successfully treated with s-TAR or c-TAR, and none died intraoperatively. Cardiopulmonary bypass, selective cerebral perfusion, and lower-body circulatory arrest time were significantly shorter in the s-TAR group, which also had a lower incidence of prolonged ventilation and transient neurologic dysfunction. No patient in either group experienced permanent neurologic dysfunction. The incidence of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and paraplegia was markedly increased in the c-TAR group; however, no such events were observed in the s-TAR group. Both perioperative blood loss and the incidence of reoperation for bleeding were significantly lower in the s-TAR group. The in-hospital mortality rate was 0% in the s-TAR group and 4.9% in the c-TAR group. The s-TAR group had significantly shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay and lower total hospitalization costs. The s-TAR technique is a safe and effective alternative for total arch reconstruction with shorter operation time, lower rate of postoperative complications and lower total hospitalization costs compared with c-TAR.

Effect of ascending aorta replacement on the long-term outcomes of bicuspid aortic valve repair

ObjectiveThe study objective was to determine the effect of sinutubular junction stabilization on long-term outcomes of bicuspid aortic valve repair. MethodsFrom January 1998 to January 2020, 419 patients underwent bicuspid aortic valve repair with ascending aorta replacement and 421 without (bicuspid aortic valve repair alone). Propensity score matching (97 pairs) was used to compare outcomes. ResultsBefore matching, prevalence of severe aortic regurgitation at 10 years was 5.4% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 10% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone; aortic valve gradient was 20 mm Hg after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 19 mm Hg after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone. Ten-year freedom from reoperation overall was 79% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 75% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone; freedom from late aortic regurgitation was 93% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 92% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone; and freedom from aortic stenosis was 87% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 93% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone. Ten-year survival was 95% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 96% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone. After matching, prevalence of severe aortic regurgitation at 10 years was 11% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 9.1% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P = .33); aortic valve gradient was 16 mm Hg after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 25 mm Hg after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P < .0001). Ten-year freedom from reoperation was 85% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 72% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P = .08) overall. Ten-year freedom from reoperation for late aortic regurgitation was 88% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 86% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P = .65). Freedom from aortic stenosis was 97% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 91% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P = .03). Ten-year survival was 96% after bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement and 96% after bicuspid aortic valve repair alone (P = .16). ConclusionsBicuspid aortic valve repair with or without ascending aorta replacement is associated with good short- and long-term outcomes. Bicuspid aortic valve repair + ascending aorta replacement has a minimal effect on long-term repair durability. Sinutubular junction stabilization should not be performed for the sole purpose of long-term repair durability.

Biochemical Predictors of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation after Ascending Aorta Replacement Surgery in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Patients

Objective. This study aimed to determine the risk factors of new-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation after ascending aortic replacement in acute type A aortic dissection patients, with emphasis on biochemical parameters. Methods. From Jan 2020 to Dec 2021, a total of 435 acute type A aortic dissection patients who underwent ascending aortic replacement and without a history of atrial fibrillation were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Perioperative data of these patients were obtained from the hospital’s database. The 30-day follow-up was via telephone interviews. The multivariate regression analysis was used to identify risk factors that may be predictive of postoperative atrial fibrillation. Results. 218 (50.1%) patients experienced postoperative atrial fibrillation after ascending aorta replacement surgery. Older age (OR = 1.081 (1.059–1.104), p &lt; 0.001 ), higher total bile acid (OR = 1.064 (1.024–1.106), p = 0.002), glucose (OR = 1.180 (1.038–1.342), p = 0.012), and serum potassium (OR = 2.313 (1.078–4.960), p = 0.031) were identified by multivariate regression analysis as risk factors of postoperative atrial fibrillation. The multivariate regression analysis prediction model incorporating these four factors had a good prediction effect (AUC = 0.769 (0.723–0.816), p &lt; 0.001 ). Conclusions. Older age, higher total bile acid, glucose, and serum potassium were risk factors of postoperative atrial fibrillation after ascending aortic replacement surgery in acute type A aortic dissection patients.

Technical tips and clinical experience with the Nexus Endospan arch branch stent-graft

Aortic arch pathologies are commonly treated by open surgery which is still the gold standard. Patients that are unfit for surgery can be effectively treated mini-invasively with novel endovascular endograft specifically designed for the arch. Endovascular technology has remarkably improved in recent years and is a valid alternative option for the treatment of aortic arch. Available endografts on the market include fenestrated and branched (single, double, or triple). Most endograft designed for the aortic arch are custom-made and production time could be limiting. The aim of this study is to report our experience with the only single branch bi-modular off-the shelf device available on the market specifically designed for aortic arch aneurysms and dissections. We perform endovascular treatment of the arch in a multidisciplinary team together with dedicated anesthesiologist team, interventional cardiologists, and cardiac surgeons. Prior to the implantation of the endograft, a debranching procedure must be made to redirect the blood from brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) to the left common carotid artery and left subclavian artery. A through and through system from the right axillary artery to the femoral artery is required to deploy the main module. The ascending module is delivered over an extra stiff guidewire placed in the left ventricle. Molding of the endografts is performed with kissing balloon in rapid pacing. We performed 8 cases. Six of them came to our attention for residual dissection and has already been treated with ascending aorta replacement. Mean aortic diameter was 63 mm. All patients required complete debranching of the supra-aortic vessel and received a right common carotid -left subclavian artery bypass with reimplantation of the left common carotid artery on the graft. Timing of the debranching was a few days before the endovascular procedure in 76% of cases. Technical success of the endovascular intervention occurred in 100% of cases. In 2 cases the target supra-aortic trunk for the deployment of the main module BCT branch was the left subclavian artery with no adverse event related to this variation. No intraoperative adjunctive maneuvers have been registered, left subclavian artery have been embolized during the procedure in 5 cases. No access complications have been reported. We experienced 1 case of major stroke with permanent neurological impairments that lead to worsening of clinical condition and death at 6 months. No cardiological adverse event have been registered. Two cases of type 2 endoleak have been reported and required reintervention with embolization of the LSA. At 1 year follow-up no aorta-related adverse event has been reported. The use of this off-the-shelf device for the treatment of aortic arch pathologies requiring total debranching of the supra-aortic vessels seems to be safe and effective. Preliminary results are promising despite available data are insufficient and further data collection is mandatory.

Managing the Root in Acute Type A Aortic Dissections: Are We Ready for a Standardized Approach?

Surgical repair of Type A aortic dissection (TAAD) requires exclusion of the primary entry tear and reestablishment of flow into the distal true lumen. Provided that the majority of tears occur within the ascending aorta (AA), replacing only that segment seems a safe option; however, this strategy leaves the root susceptible to dilatation and need for reintervention. We aimed to review the outcomes of the two strategies: aortic root replacement (ARR) and isolated ascending aortic replacement. Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data for all consecutive patients who underwent repair of acute TAAD at our institution from 2015 to 2020 was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups: (1) ARR and (2) isolated AA replacement as index operation for TAAD repair. Primary outcomes were mortality and need for reintervention during the follow-up. A total of 194 patients were included in the study; 68 (35%) in the ARR group and 126 (65%) in the AA group. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications or in-hospital mortality (23%; p = 0.51) between groups. Seven patients (4.7%) died during follow-up and eight patients underwent aortic reinterventions, including proximal aortic segments (two patients) and distal procedures (six patients). Both aortic root and AA replacement are acceptable and safe techniques. The growth of an untouched root is slow, and reintervention in this aortic segment is infrequent compared with distal aortic segments, hence preserving the root could be an option for older patients provided that there is no primary tear within the root.

Magnetic resonance imaging-based hemodynamic wall shear stress alters aortic wall tissue biomechanics in bicuspid aortic valve patients

ObjectiveIn this study we aimed to conclusively determine whether altered aortic biomechanics are associated with wall shear stress (WSS) independent of region of tissue collection. Elevated WSS in the ascending aorta of patients with bicuspid aortic valve has been shown to contribute to local maladaptive aortic remodeling and might alter biomechanics. MethodsPreoperative 4-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 22 patients who underwent prophylactic aortic root and/or ascending aorta replacement. Localized elevated WSS was identified in patients using age-matched healthy atlases (n = 60 controls). Tissue samples (n = 78) were collected and categorized according to WSS (elevated vs normal) and region. Samples were subjected to planar biaxial testing. To fully quantify the nonlinear biomechanical response, the tangential modulus (local stiffness) at a low-stretch (LTM) and high-stretch (HTM) linear region and the onset (TZo) and end stress of the nonlinear transition zone were measured. A linear mixed effect models was implemented to determine statistical relationships. ResultsA higher LTM in the circumferential and axial direction was associated with elevated WSS (P = .007 and P = .018 respectively) independent of collection region. Circumferential TZo and HTM were higher with elevated WSS (P = .024 and P = .003); whereas the collection region was associated with variations in axial TZo (P = .013), circumferential HTM (P = .015), and axial HTM (P = .001). ConclusionsThis study shows strong evidence that biomechanical changes in the aorta are strongly associated with hemodynamics, and not region of tissue collection for bicuspid valve aortopathy patients. Elevated WSS is associated with tissue behavior at low stretch ranges (ie, LTM and TZo).

Anaesthesia for Thoracic Aortic Disease: Series of Four Cases

Thoracic aortic diseases involving the thoracic aorta, from the ascending aorta, the aortic arch to the descending aorta, can present in the form of aneurysms, dissection, tear and coarctation which usually lead to various complications, requiring surgical intervention. The same can be addressed surgically by ascending aorta replacement or reduction aortoplasty with/without Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR). The anaesthetic implications might vary depending on the pathology of the thoracic aortic disease which can be acute or chronic and, silent or symptomatic. Anaesthetic management of four patients (1 female and 3 males) with varied thoracic aortic diseases have been described in the series, including bicuspid aortic valve with severe aortic stenosis, Ischaemic Heart Disease (IHD) with severe Aortic Regurgitation (AR) with ascending aortic aneurysm, ascending aortic dilatation in a known Takayasu arteritis patient and coarctation of aorta with atrial septal defect. These patients underwent aortoplasty with or without aortic root replacement. Full cardiopulmonary bypass with Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest (DHCA) at 16-20°C was the technique used for these procedures as it prevents stroke and ensures cognitive function. This technique had no additional cannulas, less chances of intimal injury or embolisation and clear surgical fields. During the process of rewarming, Inj. nitroglycerine was started which reduced preload, conserving the myocardium against ischaemic injuries. These patients were successfully managed perioperatively and were discharged with good outcomes postoperatively

Double-arterial cannulation strategy in patients presenting with Type A aortic dissection

Background: Cannulation strategies in ascending aorta and arch surgeries are a matter of immense discussion. Majority of time deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) is the preferred strategy, but it does come with its set of demerits. Double-arterial cannulation (DAC) may decrease DHCA time and avoid its related morbidity and mortality. Aim: The aim was to compare patients undergoing surgery in acute Type A dissection by DAC with antegrade cerebral perfusion under moderate hypothermia and single-arterial cannulation (SAC) technique under DHCA with respect to the primary outcome of stroke, seizure, and psychosis and the secondary outcome as malperfusion, hospital stay, and mortality. Materials and Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of 64 patients operated for acute ascending aortic dissection (AAD) extending into arch and major vessels in the Department of CTVS, UN Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research between July 2015 and July 2020. After screening through the hospital data, 30 patients operated by SAC and 34 patients operated by DAC technique were selected and their files were studied and analyzed. All patients were diagnosed using two-dimensional echocardiogram and computerized tomography aortogram to confirm the diagnosis. Forty-four patients who presented to emergency were stabilized before taking up for emergency surgery and 20 were operated semi-electively. Out of 64 patients, 40 patients underwent Bentall's procedure using composite mechanical valve, 10 patients underwent ascending aorta replacement, 7 patients underwent ascending aorta replacement with hemiarch, 2 patients underwent Bentall's with coronary artery bypass grafting, 2 patients underwent David's procedure, 2 patients underwent Yacoub's procedure, and 1 patient underwent Bentall's procedure using biological valve. Out of 30 patients operated by SAC, 25 patients had femoral cannulation and 5 patients had only right axillary cannulation. In the DAC group, all had right axillary artery and femoral cannulation. All patients were analyzed for primary and secondary outcomes. Results: A total of 64 patients diagnosed with Type A AAD with dissection flap extending into major vessels were included in the study. Those patients operated with DAC technique had a significantly lower incidence of stroke, malperfusion, and hospital mortality as compared to the patients with SACs. Conclusion: In AAD involving major arch vessel and femoral arteries, the idea is to provide rapid and safe blood inflow to arterial system in order to maintain cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and organ perfusion, which is of utmost iimportance. The idea is to provide rapid and safe blood inflow to arterial system in order to maintain cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and organ perfusion, which is of utmost importance. The right axillary artery is least involved in acute aortic dissection and when cannulated can provide uninterrupted flow to brain and also provide sufficient inflow to maintain CPB. Along with this, if femoral artery cannulation provides flow to abdominal organs and lower limb, it will prevent malperfusion syndrome. DAC is safe in complex Type A aortic dissection and aortic arch surgery and has better perioperative outcomes compared to SAC.

Predicting late aortic complications after acute type A dissection surgery with volumetric measurements in a Singapore cohort.

This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of postoperative computed tomography (CT) measurements of aortic lumen volumes in predicting aortic-related complications following acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) repair. We conducted a single-institution retrospective aortic volumetric analysis of patients after ascending aorta replacement performed during 2001-2015. The volumetric measurements of total lumen (total-L), true lumen (TL), false lumen (FL), as well as the TL:FL ratio from the first and second postoperative computer angiograms were obtained. A generalised structural equation model was created to analyse the predictive utility of TL:FL ratio. One hundred and twenty-five patients underwent surgical intervention, of whom 97 patients were eventually discharged and analysed for postoperative complications. A total of 19 patients were included in the final analysis. Patients with late postoperative aortic complications had a significantly higher FL volume and total-L volume on the first (FL volume P = 0.041, total-L volume P = 0.05) and second (FL volume P = 0.01, total-L volume P = 0.007) postoperative scans. The odds of having aortic complications were raised by 1% with a 1 cm3 increase in total-L volume and by 2% with a 1 cm3 increase in FL volume. The TL:FL ratio was significantly lower in patients who developed complications. Postoperative CT volumetric measurements in patients who developed complications are characterised by a significant increase in the FL volume and total-L volume from the first postoperative scans. Patients with disproportionately expanded FL presenting with TL:FL ratios less than 1 were associated with aortic complications. Hence, the TL:FL ratio may be a reliable and useful parameter to monitor postoperative disease progression and to evaluate the risk of late complications in ATAAD patients.

495 STANFORD TYPE-A ACUTE AORTIC DISSECTION: A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY

Abstract Stanford type A acute aortic dissection is a life-threatening cardiological emergency which occurs when an intimal tear in the ascending aorta creates a false lumen within the media refilled by pulsatile blood flow. Some investigators report the immediate mortality to be as high as 40%. Both congenital and acquired conditions can be the cause of an instability of the aortic wall that can lead to dissection. Diagnosis, which requires a high level of suspicion, is usually made with aortic angio-CT. The case we present involves a 62-years old man with a history of hypertension, parossistic atrial fibrillation and familiarity for type B aortic dissection. He called 911 complaining of sudden onset dorsal pain that then irradiated anteriorly to the chest and upwardly to the neck, associated with profuse sweating. An EKG performed at patient's home showed ST elevation in V1 meaningful of right ventricle infarction. Arrived at the Emergency Ward of our hospital arterial pressure was 80/50 mmHg with an HR of 44 bpm. Rapidly, because of the suspect of aortic dissection, an angio-TC was performed showing a type A aortic dissection starting from Valsalva sinuses and extending till common right iliac artery and external left iliac artery including left subclavian artery ostium. The left renal artery originated from false lumen, but patient had a so-called horseshoe kidney. For this reason, the patient was transferred immediately to the cardiac surgery room with indication for Bentall procedure (aortic valve plus ascending aorta replacement with home-made valved Dacron tubular prosthesis), aortic arch repair with supra-aortic vessels debranching and reimplantation and saphenous graft on right coronary artery. During surgery was evident that intimal tear was located immediately after left common carotid artery and right coronary sinus was involved in the dissection thus explaining why right ventricle free wall was visibly hypokinetic. Surgery went without complication and patient entered ICU with circulation supported by a low dose of epinephrine and norepinephrine; respiratory weaning took place in day 1 post-operation. The following days patient developed circumferential pericardial effusion which needed percutaneous subxiphoid drainage despite not being hemodynamically relevant. Echocardiography before discharge showed aortic valve prosthesis and ascending aorta prosthesis well positioned, bi-ventricular normal dimensions and function and organized residual pericardial effusion with fibrin strands. Stanford type A is the most common type of aortic dissection and requires immediate surgical treatment. The Bentall procedure is considered the gold standard for patients needing ascending aorta plus aortic valve replacement. Even though mortality rates remain high for Stanford type A acute aortic dissection, this case shows how is possible to survive from such a life-threatening condition if a prompt and correct diagnosis is made and thanks to flawless surgical operation.

DO NOT RUSH TO BLAME THE ARTERIAL LINE. BEFORE TAKING IT OUT, SCAN THE AORTA

<h3>Objective</h3> Cardiac Anaesthesiologists has the unique advantage of assessing the cardiovascular system through various methods. Non-invasive and invasive hemodynamic monitoring accompanied by Transoesophageal Echocardiography (TOE) with 3D imaging, create an integrated profile of pressure, volume, flow velocity and anatomical information for every patient. In the current case report, we highlight the role of TOE and 3D imaging in diagnosing a previously unknown Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA), and thus interpreting correctly the arterial waveform of a femoral arterial line that was initially considered to be malfunctioning. <h3>Design and Method</h3> A 53yr old male patient was scheduled for Aortic Valve plus partial Aortic Root plus Ascending Aorta replacement. The background included a bicuspid aortic valve (Sievers Type 0: no raphe) with moderate mixed valvular disease, aortic root aneurysm with unequal dilatation of the sinuses of Valsalva, and an ascending aorta aneurysm. Intraoperatively, a right brachial cuff for Non-Invasive Blood Pressure (NIBP) was placed before the anesthesia induction, whilst after that an arterial line was introduced in the left femoral artery (Figure 1). Because of the fact that the arterial waveform had a damped shape, a delayed upslope and a 30mmHg difference with the NIBP, after having ruled out any connection issues, a second arterial line was inserted into the left radial artery. The second waveform had a normal shape and was numerically matching the NIBP, having therefore the same pressure difference with the femoral line (Figure 2,3). Keeping in mind the patient's background, the suspicion of CoA was raised. <h3>Results and Conclusion</h3> The comprehensive TOE examination that followed, including 3D imaging, confirmed the already known patient's background, but more importantly proved the existence of CoA, showed its precise anatomy and appreciated quite accurately the previously noticed pressure difference between the two arterial waveforms (Figure 4,5,6,7,8). Due to the fact that the summary of the preoperative CT angiography was not describing any pathology in the descending aorta, a further analysis of the CT with 3D reconstruction was requested at that moment; the clinical suspicion and the echocardiographic findings were verified (Figure 9,10). As fas as the surgical procedure is concerned, the patient underwent a mechanical aortic valve replacement, replacement of the non-coronary sinus of Valsalva and of the ascending aorta with an interposition graft. No intervention regarding the CoA was performed. In conclusion, in this case report we showed that a damped arterial waveform - a clinical finding that could have been overlooked and the arterial line to be consequently removed - constituted the first step towards a definite diagnosis. Undoubtedly, crucial in the diagnostic process proved to be the role of TOE, and more specifically a comprehensive and not only focused to the main pathology TOE examination. However, it is the clinical suspicion that should be always kept high.

Surgery of the ascending aorta via a right anterior minithoracotomy: initial surgical experience of a single center

Objectives Full median sternotomy (FMS) is the common surgical access for patients undergoing replacement of the ascending aorta (AA) with or without aortic valve replacement (AVR). The right anterior mini-thoracotomy (RAMT) approach has been increasingly adopted for AVR. This approach has been shown to decrease blood loss and hospital length of stay (LOS) compared with FMS. The RAMT approach may also be beneficial in selected patients requiring AA procedures with or without AVR. We present our initial clinical experience of patients who have undergone a RAMT for supracommissural replacement of the tubular AA with or without AVR. Methods This is a single-center retrospective review of 10 patients who underwent an elective RAMT for replacement of the tubular AA with or without AVR between November 2019 and January 2022. Clinical outcomes evaluated include 30-day mortality, intensive care and hospital LOS, time to extubation, operative times, as well as postoperative complications such as stroke and bleeding. Results Median cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times were 109 and 148 min, respectively. Median time to extubation was 2.5 h and median intensive care unit and hospital stay were 2 and 10 days, respectively. There were two re-thoracotomies for postoperative bleeding and two cases of sub-xiphoidal pericardial drainage for pericardial effusion. There were no strokes and no in-hospital nor 30-day mortalities. Conclusions The replacement of the AA with or without concomitant AVR can be performed through a RAMT in carefully selected patients. However, the safety of this approach, as compared to full/partial median sternotomy, remains to be proven.

Long-term outcomes of aortic root procedures for heterogenous ascending aneurysm disease in bicuspid aortic valve syndrome

ObjectiveSurgery for ascending aneurysms in bicuspid aortic valve syndrome primarily includes Bentall root replacement, aortic valve replacement with supracoronary ascending aorta replacement (AVRSCAAR), and valve-sparing root reimplantation (VSRR). Comparative analysis of long-term clinical and functional outcomes of these procedures is detailed. MethodsFrom 1997 to 2017, 635 patients with bicuspid aortic valve undergoing root complex-focused procedures electively were stratified by valvulopathy (ie, aortic stenosis vs aortic insufficiency) and substratified into ascending or root aneurysm phenotype. Inverse probability weights were calculated to adjust for baseline differences. ResultsKaplan-Meier curves for all-cause mortality demonstrated no difference between Bentall versus AVRSCAAR for aortic stenosis and aortic insufficiency presentations (log-rank P > .05). In patients with aortic stenosis, multivariable Cox regression showed significantly decreased risk of stroke for biologic AVRSCAAR (hazard ratio, 0.04; P = .013). Aortic reoperation rates were similar for biologic versus mechanical valves (P = .353).In patients with aortic insufficiency, similar long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 0.95; P = .93), but lower stroke risk in biologic AVRSCAAR group by Cox regression, and lower aortic reoperation rate was noted (coefficient < 0.01; P < .001). Comparing Bentall to VSRR, mortality (hazard ratio, 0.12; P = .022) was significantly improved in patients undergoing VSRR, but recurrence of moderate or greater aortic insufficiency was higher in VSRR by multistate model (beta coefficient 2.63; P < .001). ConclusionsA tailored approach to heterogeneous ascending aneurysm pathologies in bicuspid aortic valve syndrome utilizing Bentall, AVRSCAAR, and VSRR procedures renders excellent long-term clinical and functional outcomes, with biologic conduits showing equivalent to improved clinical outcomes.