Changes In Pulmonary Artery Pressure Research Articles

Pulmonary artery denervation versus conventional therapies for PAH: a systematic review and updated network meta-analysis.

A recent guideline presented by the ESC Congress in 2022 had indicated a novel therapy targeted at pulmonary artery hypertension, known as pulmonary artery denervation (PADN), which get inspired from a laboratorial trial that could lowering the pulmonary artery pressure through the intervention on the animals. Our aim is to conduct a network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of PADN from six aspects with the current conventional therapies. According to the PRISMA guidance, databases including Ovid, ClinicalTrials.gov, Medline, Embase, and PubMed were searched from inception to 22 August 2023, along with a full assessment of the previous five meta-analyses. Data were extracted and curated for Bayesian network meta-analysis. The primary outcome was the change in the 6-min walking distance (6MWD) from baseline with a secondary outcome called change in mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) from baseline. The four safety outcomes included risk of clinical worsening, hospitalization, mortality and severe adverse events (SAEs). The comparison is structured on a contrast model based on 65 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PADN and the other conventional mainstream drugs. PADN had a better effect in improving 6MWD than Placebo (-77.76m, 95% CI: -102.04 to -54.34m), Macitentan (-65.32m, 95% CI: -95.34 to -36.1m), Bosentan (-64.5m, 95% CI: -94.7 to -35.07m), Iloprost (-62.66m, 95% CI: -99.48 to -27.13m), Oxygen (-62.42m, 95% CI: -100.01 to -25.78m), Treprostinil (-62.01m, 95% CI: -89.04 to -35.61m), Riociguat (-60.59m, 95% CI: -86.11 to -35.98m), Selexipag (-47.2m, 95% CI: -85.61 to -10.19m), Sildenafil (-44.92m, 95% CI: -74.43 to -16.15m), or Sitaxsentan (-39.53m, 95% CI: -78.99 to -0.76m). PADN had a better antihypertensive effect than placebo and showed statistical significant lower risks to induce clinical worsening and re-hospitalization than treprostinil, riociguat, and placebo groups. No statistically significant difference in risk of mortality and severe adverse events was observed between PADN versus the other interventions. Compared with 16 types of conventional therapies and Placebo, PADN has advantage over nine single therapies and Placebo in improving 6MWD and appears to be better than two types of dual-drug combined therapies while with no statistical significance. PADN shows a favourable antihypertensive effect on mPAP and has a lower risk to trigger clinical worsening or hospitalization, while its risk on mortality and severe adverse events is still inconclusive.

Effect of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors on surgical outcome of ventricular septal defect and pulmonary hypertension patients

BackgroundChildren with ventricular septal defect (VSD) and large systemic-to-pulmonary shunts eventually develop pulmonary hypertension (PH). The perioperative management of patients with VSD and PH is quite troublesome and still debatable, especially in developing countries where the different management options and standardization of treatment is not available. Oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are good treatment options being widely available, cheap, easy administration and do not require extensive monitoring. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of the PDE-5 inhibitors when given orally, early preoperative and continued for 3 months postoperative on controlling postoperative PH with its effect on right ventricle (RV) functions. Fifty-one patients were randomly assigned to either sildenafil or tadalafil, 1 week before and continued for 3 months after corrective surgery. The control group received a placebo.ResultsThere was no significant difference in the improvement in the right ventricle systolic pressure (RVSP) between both groups, early in the postoperative period (P = 0.255) and in follow-up (P = 0.259). There was also no significant difference in the changes in mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), postoperatively and on follow-up (P = 0.788 and 0.059, respectively). There was a drop in RV functions in both groups postoperatively which improved on follow-up; however, it was not significant between both groups. The length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay was similar between both groups (P = 0.143).ConclusionPerioperative administration of PDE-5 inhibitors does not have an impact on the clinical course as regards improvement in pulmonary artery (PA) pressure, ventricular functions and ICU stay.

Changes in the pulmonary circulation due to gravitational loads in high altitude conditions.

The impact of gravity on the existence of all living things has long been of interest to scientists. The force of the Earth's gravity combined with hypoxia significantly affects blood circulation and blood accumulation in various parts of the human and animal body. To date, the relationship between body position and blood circulation in pulmonary circulation under hypobaric hypoxia has not been sufficiently studied. Therefore, the research aims to determine the possibility of changing the body position in space on the reactions in the pulmonary circulation in the plains and highlands. For this purpose, research was conducted on male Wistar rats, 44 of whom spent 150 days at an altitude of 3200 m above sea level, and 25 representatives of the control group - at an altitude of 164 m. The study revealed that gravitational redistribution of blood in mountainous conditions is less pronounced compared to the control group. This is explained by the remodeling of the vascular wall and an increase in its stiffness. It was found that a change in pulmonary artery pressure at the time of a change in body position was recorded both on the plains and in the highlands. On the plains, when the body position of rats was changed to passive orthostatic, a decrease in systolic and diastolic pulmonary artery pressure was noted, and when the body position was changed to passive anti-orthostatic, an increase in pulmonary artery pressure was observed. The increase in pulmonary artery pressure was a compensatory mechanism due to the increased stiffness of the pulmonary vasculature. The practical significance of this research is to expand the understanding of the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension in high-altitude hypoxia.

Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and NT-proBNP Levels Provide SynergisticInformation in PulmonaryArterial Hypertension.

Plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is elevated in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and is associated with unfavorable outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess changes in ADMA plasma levels for monitoring disease progression and outcomes during PAH-specific therapy. ADMA was measured at baseline and after at least 6months of follow-up using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and high-performance liquid chromatography. Changes in ADMA were analyzed in relation to changes in established PAH markers, including hemodynamic status, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and risk assessment scores. Impact on survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. Between 2008 and 2019, ADMA samples were collected prospectively from 215 patients with PAH. Change in ADMA plasma level was a predictor of disease progression and survival. ΔADMA (median-0.03μmol/L; 95%CI:-0.145 to 0.0135) was correlated with change in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (P< 0.005; rS=0.287) but was not significantly correlated with ΔNT-proBNP (P=0.056; rS=0.135). Patients with decreased ADMA plasma levels at follow-up had better 3-year and 5-year survival rates (88% and 80%, respectively, vs 72% and 53% in those without decreases in ADMA) (P< 0.005; pulmonary hypertension-related mortality or lung transplantation). Patients with decreases in both ADMA and NT-proBNP had better survival rates compared with patients in whom only 1 parameter improved (P< 0.005). ΔADMA was a significant predictor of survival in Cox regression analysis and also when corrected for ΔNT-proBNP (HRs: 1.27 and 1.35, respectively; P< 0.005). ADMA and NT-proBNP provide synergistic prognostic information for patients with PAH. ADMA could be used as an objective and distinct biomarker for monitoring treatment response in PAH.

Prognostic value of right ventricular free-wall longitudinal strain in patients with pulmonary hypertension: systematic review and meta-analyses

BackgroundRight ventricular (RV) dysfunction is associated with adverse outcomes in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the prognostic value of RV free-wall longitudinal strain (RVfwLS),...

Large-bore aspiration thrombectomy versus catheter-directed thrombolysis for the treatment of pulmonary embolism: A retrospective case review from a community hospital

Objectives: This study aimed to assess acute outcomes following pulmonary embolism (PE) treatment with large-bore aspiration thrombectomy (LBAT) versus catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). Material and Methods: This single-center retrospective analysis included patients who received interventional therapy for acute PE from 2018 to 2022. The primary outcomes were changes in pre-procedural mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation, and supplemental requirements following the procedure. Mean PAP was measured immediately post-procedure for LBAT patients and on postoperative day 1 (POD#1) for CDT patients. Results: A total of 48 patient cases were reviewed, 31 underwent LBAT and 17 underwent CDT. The majority of patients were female and most had intermediate-high-risk PE. No major bleeding events or device-related complications occurred. LBAT resulted in a significant decrease in average mean PAP immediately post-procedure (31.3 ± 9.0–21.4 ± 8.1 mmHg; P &lt; 0.001). On POD#1, CDT resulted in a significant decrease in mean PAP (31.7 ± 11.2–25.6 ± 7.9 mmHg; P = 0.005). The decrease in mean PAP was greater in the LBAT versus CDT group (P &lt; 0.05). Through POD#1, a similar reduction in average HR was observed between groups; however, a statistically significant reduction in HR was noted immediately post-procedure with LBAT and not with CDT. LBAT patients had a significant reduction in average supplemental oxygen requirements post-procedure. Conclusion: LBAT was associated with a greater reduction in mean PAP than CDT at an earlier post-procedural time point. LBAT may be advantageous over CDT due to rapid thrombus extraction; however, further studies with increased sample sizes are needed. Evidence-based medicine: Level of Evidence: Level 3, Local non-random sample.

Effect of balloon pulmonary angioplasty on cardio-ankle vascular index and biventricular remodeling in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is caused by organized pulmonary thrombi, and pulmonary endarterectomy is the only curative treatment. Since balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) has become an established therapeutic option for inoperable CTEPH, prognosis has improved. Recent reports suggest that arterial stiffness evaluated using the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) may play an important role in the cardio-vascular interaction in CTEPH; however, the details remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the role of CAVI in CTEPH through hemodynamic changes and ventricular remodeling after BPA. A total of 23 patients with CTEPH who had undergone BPA were enrolled in this study. The mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) and CAVI significantly decreased after BPA [mPAP, 34 (26-45) mmHg to 20 (19-24) mmHg, p < 0.0001; CAVI, 9.4 (8.0-10.3) to 8.3 (7.5-9.6), p = 0.004]. The echocardiographic right ventricle was significantly decreased, and the left ventricular volume was significantly increased after BPA, indicating significant biventricular remodeling after BPA. Changes in CAVI (ΔCAVI) significantly correlated with changes in mPAP (r = 0.45, p = 0.03). Additionally, ΔCAVI was significantly correlated with changes in both right ventricular area and left ventricular volume. Arterial stiffness, evaluated using the CAVI, improved after BPA. Changes in CAVI were significantly correlated with changes in pulmonary arterial pressure and biventricular remodeling. CAVI may play an important role in cardiovascular interactions in patients with CTEPH.

Are dynamic measurements of central venous pressure in Fontan circulation during exercise or volume loading superior to resting measurements?

Abstract Background: The main objective measure to assess the health of the Fontan circulation is the pressure measurement of the superior vena cava or pulmonary arteries. We reviewed the literature for benefits of measuring resting pressure in the Fontan circuit and explored whether dynamic measurement by volume loading or exercise has the potential to refine this diagnostic tool. Methods: PubMed was searched for articles showing a relationship between resting post-operative central venous pressure or pulmonary artery pressure and Fontan failure. Relationships between post-operative central venous pressure or pulmonary artery pressure and volume loading changes, such as during exercise or volume loading during cardiac catheterization, were also queried. Results: A total of 44 articles mentioned relationships between resting central venous pressure or pulmonary artery pressure and Fontan failure. Only 26 included an analysis between the variables and only seven of those articles found pressure to be predictive of Fontan failure. Ten articles examined the relationship between exercise or volume loading and outcomes and demonstrated a large individual variation of pressures under these dynamic conditions. Conclusions: Based on current literature, there is not a lot of strong evidence to show that elevated resting central venous pressure or pulmonary artery pressure is predictive of Fontan failure. Some individuals experience dramatic increases in central venous pressure or pulmonary artery pressure under increased loading conditions with exercise or bolus fluid infusion, while others experience increases closer to that of a healthy control population. Further studies are needed to examine whether more dynamic and continuous monitoring of systemic venous pressures might better predict outcomes in patients with Fontan circulation.

Effectiveness and safety of catheter-directed thrombolysis for pulmonary embolism in key patient subgroups: results of an individual patient level analysis

Abstract Background The effectiveness of catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) for acute pulmonary embolism (PE) has been rarely investigated in subgroups of patients at a higher risk of complications. Furthermore, this group of patients has been excluded from prior and ongoing phase 3 trials with CDT. Purpose To assess the efficacy and safety of catheter-directed thrombolysis for pulmonary embolism among specific patient subpopulations. Material and methods We conducted an individual patient-level analysis of patient data from 16 cohort studies and randomized trials of CDT for intermediate- and high-risk acute PE. Studies were identified on the basis of a systematic review of the literature. We focused on early clinical outcomes, including haemodynamic decompensation, intracranial bleeding, major bleeding, and death, as well as on the changes in the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) before and after CDT. We predefined three subgroups of at-risk patients: (i) older age (i.e. ≥75 years), (ii) active cancer, and (iii) surgery in the prior 4 weeks. Results We studied 1244 patients, of whom 586 (47.1%) were women. The median age was 61 (Q1-Q3; 50-71) years. There were 202 (16.3% of total available) patients aged 75 years or older, 101 (10%) with active cancer, and 108 (14.8%) with prior surgery. A total of 946 (89.3%) patients had intermediate-risk PE, and 113 (10.7%) were classified in the high-risk group. Patients aged ≥75 years more frequently suffered haemodynamic decompensation (7.5% vs 1.6% aged &amp;lt;75 years; p&amp;lt; 0.001), major bleeding (12.7% vs 4.5%; p&amp;lt;0.001), and death (9.2% vs 2.2%; p&amp;lt;0.001); Table 1. In a multivariable logistic regression model, age remained associated with death, major bleeding, and haemodynamic decompensation after adjustment for a key prognostic factor (high-risk PE). The same, except for decompensation, was observed after conditioning for sex, high-risk PE, and cancer status. Patients with active cancer showed a tendency to a higher 30-day case fatality when compared with patients with no active cancer, without reaching statistical significance; Table 1. Recent surgery did not appear to influence the outcome rate in this cohort. No differences were found among the three subgroups regarding the reduction of the mPAP following CDT ; Table 2. Conclusions Our results point to age as a strong predictor of early mortality and decompensation in patients undergoing CDT, even after adjusting for the higher rate of high-risk PE in the elderly. The clinical net benefit of CDT in the elderly when accounting for bleeding and the risk of haemodynamic decompensation remains unclear.Efficacy and safety outcomes of CDTmPAP values before and after CDT

Abstract 14817: Influence of Timing of Mechanical Thrombectomy in Treatment of Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

Background: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is associated with significant morality. Patients with signs of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction are at a high risk of adverse events. Mechanical thrombectomy reduces RV strain and therefore is often performed in intermediate-risk PE. The optimal timing of the procedure is uncertain. We aimed to assess the influence of timing of mechanical thrombectomy on outcomes in patients with intermediate-risk PE. Methods: A single-center, retrospective study collected patient data between 7/2020 and 1/2023. Adults presenting with an intermediate-risk PE who were treated with mechanical thrombectomy were included. Patients with high risk PE were excluded. We compared patient outcomes between individuals receiving intervention within 12 hours of diagnosis (early treatment; ET) to those receiving intervention after 12 hours of diagnosis (delayed treatment, DT). Our primary outcome was change in pulmonary artery pressures. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, intubation rates, vasopressor need and mortality. Results: 69 patients (52% male) were included for analysis. Of these, 37 were included in the ET group and 32 in the DT group. Presenting WHO class was higher in the ET group. Other baseline demographics, presenting vital signs, and echocardiographic parameters were similar between groups (Table). Patients in the ET group had a greater reduction in their pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) after intervention compared to the DT group (-14.8 mm Hg vs. -8.3 mm Hg, p = 0.05; Fig). There were no differences in mortality, intubation rate, vasopressor or inotrope use between groups. There was no significant difference in overall hospital length of stay (LOS), though there was a trend towards shorter ICU LOS in the ET group (1.92 d vs. 4.2 d, p = 0.056). Conclusions: When performed for intermediate-risk PE ET is associated with greater reductions in PASP compared to DT.

Abstract 12149: Vericiguat May Improve Conduit Vessel Function and Exercise Functional Capacity in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

Background: The treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has advanced considerably in recent years with the advent of novel agents; however, limitations, such as blood pressure and renal dysfunction, limit the number of patients who can benefit from this treatment in practice. Vericiguat, a novel heart failure treatment, has been found to be efficacious in patients with HFrEF while maintaining a good safety profile. Unfortunately, its mechanisms remain largely unknown. Objective and Methods: A total of 11 patients with HFrEF who were determined to be inadequately treated underwent right heart catheterization, echocardiography, flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) testing, 6-min walking distance (6MWD) test, and blood sampling at a median interval of 70 ± 13 days before and after vericiguat treatment. Results: Participating patients were 73 ± 9.3 years old with a mean of 2.5 repeated heart failure hospitalizations, ejection fraction (EF) of 31.2% ± 8.7%, BNP of 328.7 ± 282, and New York Heart Association classification of mostly II. No significant changes in systolic blood pressure or pulse rate were observed before and after vericiguat introduction (115 ± 64 vs. 105 ± 52 mmHg and 70 ± 5 vs. 75 ± 12 bpm; P = 0.533 and 0.960, respectively). No significant changes in the mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary artery wedge pressure were also observed before or after drug administration (19 ± 5 vs. 17 ± 10 mmHg and 7 ± 5 vs. 9 ± 3 bpm; P = 0.177 and 0.240 respectively). However, cardiac output was significantly increased and vascular resistance was significantly decreased after vericiguat treatment (4.0 ± 1.0 vs. 4.3 ± 1.1 L/min and 1719 ± 462 vs. 1467 ± 377 dynes·sec·cm-5; P = 0.016 and 0.002, respectively). FMD test results improved significantly after treatment (4.5 ± 5% vs. 8.1± 8%: P = 0.027), with the 6MWD increasing significantly by 42 m (311 ± 100 vs. 353 ± 50 m; P = 0.035). BNP also decreased significantly, whereas eGFR remained unchanged (317 ± 274 vs. 221.5 ± 200 pg/mL and 51.7 ± 21 vs. 51.5 ± 25.3 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; P = 0.015 and 0.967, respectively). Conclusion: Vericiguat may improve exercise tolerance by improving vascular endothelial function and cardiac output.

Prevalence, mechanisms, and prognostic impact of dynamic mitral regurgitation assessed by isometric handgrip exercise.

The extent of mitral regurgitation (MR) may vary depending on the haemodynamic situation; thus, exercise testing plays an important role in assessing the haemodynamic relevance of MR. We aim to assess prevalence, mechanisms, and prognostic impact of exercise-induced changes in MR in patients with degenerative MR (DegMR) and functional MR (FMR). We enrolled 367 patients with at least mild MR who underwent standardized echocardiography at rest and during handgrip exercise. Handgrip exercise led to an increase in MR by one grade or more in 19% of DegMR and 28% of FMR patients. In FMR, patients with exercise-induced increases in MR, handgrip exercise led to a reduction in left ventricular stroke volume index, being maintained in DegMR patients. Exercise-induced changes in systolic pulmonary artery pressure were linked to changes in effective regurgitant orifice area (DegMR: r = 0.456; P < 0.001; FMR: r = 0.326; P < 0.001). Thus, 26% of patients with DegMR and FMR developed pulmonary hypertension during exercise. In both cohorts, a significant proportion of patients with non-severe MR at rest and exercise-induced severe MR underwent mitral valve surgery/intervention during follow-up. In FMR patients (but not in DegMR patients), early mitral valve surgery/intervention was independently associated with lower event rates during follow-up [0.177 (0.027-0.643); P = 0.025]. Handgrip exercise echocardiography provides important information regarding the dynamic nature of MR, exercise-induced changes in left ventricular function, and pulmonary circulation with subsequent consequences for further therapeutic decision making. Thus, it should be considered as a diagnostic tool in symptomatic patients with non-severe MR at rest.

Pulmonary Vasodilator and Inodilator Drugs in Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review With Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

The authors performed a systematic review to evaluate the effect of pharmacologic therapy on pulmonary hypertension in the perioperative setting of elective cardiac surgery (PROSPERO CRD42023321041). Systematic review of randomized controlled trials with a Bayesian network meta-analysis. The authors searched biomedical databases for randomized controlled trials on the perioperative use of inodilators and pulmonary vasodilators in adult cardiac surgery, with in-hospital mortality as the primary outcome and duration of ventilation, length of stay in the intensive care unit, stage 3 acute kidney injury, cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical support, and change in mean pulmonary artery pressure as secondary outcomes. Twenty-eight studies randomizing 1,879 patients were included. Catecholamines and noncatecholamine inodilators, arterial pulmonary vasodilators, vasodilators, or their combination were considered eligible interventions compared with placebo or standard care. Ten studies reported in-hospital mortality and assigned 855 patients to 12 interventions. Only inhaled prostacyclin use was supported by a statistically discernible improvement in mortality, with a number-needed-to-treat estimate of at least 3.3, but a wide credible interval (relative risk 1.26×10-17 - 0.7). Inhaled prostacyclin and nitric oxide were associated with a reduction in intensive care unit stay, and none of the included interventions reached a statistically evident difference compared to usual care or placebo in the other secondary clinical outcomes. Inhaled prostacyclin was the only pharmacologic intervention whose use is supported by a statistically discernible improvement in mortality in the perioperative cardiac surgery setting as treatment of pulmonary hypertension. However, available evidence has significant limitations, mainly the low number of events and imprecision.

Acute Hemodynamics in the Fontan Circulation: Open-Label Study of Vasopressin.

To describe the acute hemodynamic effect of vasopressin on the Fontan circulation, including systemic and pulmonary pressures and resistances, left atrial pressure, and cardiac index. Prospective, open-label, nonrandomized study (NCT04463394). Cardiac catheterization laboratory at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford. Patients 3-50 years old with a Fontan circulation who were referred to the cardiac catheterization laboratory for hemodynamic assessment and/or intervention. A 0.03 U/kg IV (maximum dose 1 unit) bolus of vasopressin was administered over 5 minutes, followed by a maintenance infusion of 0.3 mU/kg/min (maximum dose 0.03 U/min). Comprehensive cardiac catheterization measurements before and after vasopressin administration. Measurements included pulmonary artery, atrial, and systemic arterial pressures, oxygen saturations, and systemic and pulmonary flows and resistances. There were 28 patients studied. Median age was 13.5 (9.1, 17) years, and 16 (57%) patients had a single or dominant right ventricle. Following vasopressin administration, systolic blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) increased by 17.5 (13.0, 22.8) mm Hg ( Z value -4.6, p < 0.001) and 3.8 (1.8, 7.5) Wood Units ( Z value -4.6, p < 0.001), respectively. The pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) decreased by 0.4 ± 0.4 WU ( t statistic 6.2, p < 0.001), and the left atrial pressure increased by 1.0 (0.0, 2.0) mm Hg ( Z value -3.5, p < 0.001). The PVR:SVR decreased by 0.04 ± 0.03 ( t statistic 8.1, p < 0.001). Neither the pulmonary artery pressure (median difference 0.0 [-1.0, 1.0], Z value -0.4, p = 0.69) nor cardiac index (0.1 ± 0.3, t statistic -1.4, p = 0.18) changed significantly. There were no adverse events. In Fontan patients undergoing cardiac catheterization, vasopressin administration resulted in a significant increase in systolic blood pressure, SVR, and left atrial pressure, decrease in PVR, and no change in cardiac index or pulmonary artery pressure. These findings suggest that in Fontan patients vasopressin may be an option for treating systemic hypotension during sedation or general anesthesia.

A Novel Dual Energy Computed Tomography Score Correlates With Postoperative Outcomes in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension.

To compare dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) based qualitative and quantitative parameters in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension with various postoperative primary and secondary endpoints. This was a retrospective analysis of 64 patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension who underwent DECT. First, a clot score was calculated by assigning the following score: pulmonary trunk-5, each main pulmonary artery-4, each lobar-3, each segmental-2, and subsegmental-1 per lobe; the sum total was then calculated. The perfusion defect (PD) score was calculated by assigning 1 point to each segmental PD. The combined score was calculated by adding clot and PD scores. For quantitative evaluation, we calculated perfused blood volume (PBV) (%) of each lung and the sum of both lungs. Primary endpoints included testing association between combined score and total PBV with change in mean pulmonary arterial pressure ([mPAP], change calculated as preop minus postop values). Secondary endpoints included explorative analysis of the correlation between combined score and PBV with change in preoperative and postoperative pulmonary vascular resistance, change in preoperative 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and immediate postoperative complications such as reperfusion edema, ECMO placement, stroke, death and mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours, all within 1 month of surgery. Higher combined scores were associated with larger decreases in mPAP ( =0.27, P =0.036). On average, the decrease in mPAP (pre mPAP-post mPAP) increased by 2.2mmHg (95% CI: -0.6, 5.0) with each 10 unit increase in combined score. The correlation between total PBV and change in mPAP was small and not statistically significant. During an exploratory analysis, higher combined scores were associated with larger increases in 6MWD at 6 months postprocedure ( =0.55, P =0.002). Calculation of DECT-based combined score offers potential in the evaluation of hemodynamic response to surgery. This response can also be objectively quantified.

A profile on the CardioMEMS HF system in the management of patients with early stages of heart failure: an update

ABSTRACT Introduction Over the past decade, there have been noteworthy advances in the evaluation and treatment of heart failure (HF). Despite an improved understanding of this chronic disease, HF is still one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States and worldwide. Decompensation and rehospitalization of HF patients remain an integral problem in disease management, with significant economic implications. Remote monitoring systems have been developed to detect HF decompensation early and address it before hospitalization. The CardioMEMS HF system is a wireless pulmonary artery (PA) monitoring system that detects changes in PA pressure and transmits data to the healthcare provider. As changes in PA pressures occur early during HF decompensation, the CardioMEMS HF system allows providers to institute timely changes in HF medical therapies to alter the course of the decompensation. The use of the CardioMEMS HF system has been shown to reduce HF hospitalization and improve quality of life. Areas Covered This review will focus on the available data supporting the expanded utilization of the CardioMEMS system in patients with HF. Expert Opinion The CardioMEMS HF system is a relatively safe and cost-effective device that reduces the incidence of HF hospitalization and qualifies as intermediate-to-high value medical care.

Comparison of the Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Standard and Ultrasound-Assisted Thrombolysis for Pulmonary Embolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Catheter-directed therapy has been increasingly used in acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Whether ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis (USAT) is superior to standard catheter-directed thrombolysis (SCDT) remains unclear. This is a systemic review and meta-analysis of comparative trials on USAT and SCDT for PE to determine whether either modality yielded better clinical efficacy and safety. Major databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Web of Science were searched through March 16, 2023. Studies that reported outcomes of SCDT and USAT for acute PE were included. Studies reported data on therapeutic efficacy (a reduction in the right ventricle [RV]/left ventricle [LV] ratio, a reduction in the systolic pulmonary artery pressure [mm Hg], change in Miller index, length of intensive care unit [ICU] and hospital stay) and safety outcomes (in-hospital mortality, overall and major bleeding events). A total of 9 studies with 2610 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis showed significantly greater improvement in the RV/LV ratio in the SCDT group than in the USAT group (mean difference [MD]: -0.155; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.249 to -0.006). No statistically significant differences were found between groups comparing change in systolic pulmonary artery pressure (MD: 0.592 mm Hg; 95% CI: -2.623 to 3.807), change in Miller index (MD: -4.1%; 95% CI: -9.5 to 1.3%), hospital stay (MD: 0.372 days; 95% CI: -0.972 to 1.717), and ICU stay (MD: -0.073.038 days; 95% CI: -1.184 to 1). No significant difference was noted in safety outcomes, including in-hospital mortality (pooled odds ratio: 0.984; 95% CI: 0.597 to 1.622), and major bleeding (pooled odds ratio: 1.162; 95% CI: 0.714 to 1.894). In our meta-analysis of observational and randomized studies, USAT is not superior to SCDT in patients with acute PE.INSPLAY registration number: INPLASY202240082. This study compared SCDT and USAT in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. We found no additional benefit in PA pressure change, thrombus reduction, hospital stay, mortality and major bleeding rate. Additional study using consistent treatment protocol is necessary for further investigation.

Impact of targeted pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies in severe pulmonary hypertension in chronic lung diseases.

Patients with severe pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic lung disease have a poor prognosis. Targeted pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies might improve exercise capacity and outcome, but there are no guidelines on treatments which are not recommended because of an unproven benefit, with discordant results from few studies in this context. The aim of our study was to evaluate targeted pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies for severe group 3 pulmonary hypertension patients. We conducted an observational retrospective monocentre study on patients with severe group 3 pulmonary hypertension diagnosed on right heart catheterisation treated with targeted therapies. Primary outcome was an improvement of the distance on 6-min walk test of ≥30 m. Secondary end-points included changes in haemodynamics (pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP)) and identification of potential predictive factors of therapeutic response. 139 patients were enrolled. Most patients had monotherapy with phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (n=128; 92%). Mean change in 6-min walk distance was +1.5 m after treatment (p=0.59). Forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity were not predictive factors for response. We found a significant improvement of PVR and mPAP of -1.0 Wood Units (p<0.001) and -4 mmHg (p<0.001), respectively, under treatment. 18% of patients had to withdraw treatment for intolerance. Treatment duration <3 months was associated with poor survival (hazard ratio 2.75, p=0.0005). Oral targeted pulmonary arterial hypertension therapies do not improve exercise capacity in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic lung disease, but could improve haemodynamic parameters.

Abstract P589: Utilization of Pulmonary Artery Sensor (CardioMEMS Device) During the Sars-CoV-2 Pandemic

Introduction: The implantation of wireless pressure monitoring devices has allowed remote monitoring of hemodynamic data in patients with congestive heart failure. Devices such as the (CardioMEMS HF System) achieve this by remotely monitoring changes in pulmonary artery pressure, which has been shown to be a signal of worsening heart failure. The benefits of wireless pressure monitoring devices in reducing mortality and hospitalizations have been shown in clinical trial data. However, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its use has not been studied. The aim of this study was to examine if the COVID-19 pandemic led to gender and race differences in in-hospital outcomes, length of stay, and total hospital charges in pulmonary artery sensor insertion. Methods: Data was extracted from the National Inpatient Sample database for the calendar year 2020. Patients implanted with a wireless pressure monitoring device were identified using relevant International Classification of Disease, and Clinical Modification codes. The study sample was stratified based on gender and race. The key outcomes of length of stay, total hospitalization cost, and mortality were then accessed. Results: A total of 485 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 66.3 years, 32% (155 of 485) were female and 70% (340 of 485) were Caucasian. The overall inpatient mortality rate was 3.09% (15 of 485), 76.2% (370 of 485) of admissions were non elective, mean length of hospitalization was 14.87 days and mean total hospital charges was 349,599 US dollars. We found no association between differences in mortality rates between both gender and race. Regarding total hospital charges, there was a significant less amount of total hospital charges for females (P&lt;0.05) but not between races. There was no significant difference between length of hospital stay for gender or race. Conclusion: Analysis of this large database of patients undergoing wireless pressure monitoring device implantation suggests that in-hospital mortality and length of stay were comparable in both gender and race during the first year of COVID-19 pandemic. However, females had a significantly less amount of hospital charges. Our study suggests that further randomized data is needed to fully assess gender disparities in patients implanted with wireless pulmonary artery pressure devices.

Prognostic value of follow-up vasoreactivity test in pulmonary arterial hypertension

BackgroundAcute vasoreactivity test with inhaled nitric oxide (NO) is performed during diagnostic right heart catheterization (RHC) to identify patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) who respond to calcium channel blockers. Our purpose was to investigate the prognostic importance of follow-up vasoreactivity test after treatment. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 36 PAH patients (mean age, 47 years; 61 % treatment-naïve), who underwent diagnostic and follow-up RHC and vasoreactivity tests at our center. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. ResultsThe median time between baseline and follow-up RHC was 9.7 months. Absolute change in mean pulmonary arterial pressure (ΔmPAP) during NO challenge was less pronounced after treatment, but there was great variability among patients. Overall cohort was dichotomized into two groups: preserved vasoreactivity (ΔmPAP ≤ −1 mmHg) and less vasoreactivity (ΔmPAP ≥0 mmHg) at follow-up RHC. Less vasoreactivity group had higher usage rate of endothelin receptor antagonists and parenteral prostacyclin analogues. During a median observation period of 6.3 years after follow-up RHC, 7 patients died, of which 6 showed less vasoreactivity at follow-up. Absolute ΔmPAP ≥0 at follow-up RHC was associated with all-cause mortality in univariable Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio, 8.728; 95 % confidence interval, 1.045–72.887; p = 0.045), whereas other hemodynamic parameters were not. Absolute ΔmPAP ≥0 at follow-up RHC was associated with all-cause mortality in multivariable Cox analysis adjusted for age and known PAH prognostic factors (HR, 12.814; 95 % CI, 1.088–150.891; p = 0.043). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a significantly worse survival of less vasoreactivity group compared to preserved vasoreactivity group (log-rank test, p = 0.016). ConclusionsFollow-up vasoreactivity test after treatment could contribute to the detection of high-risk subgroups who might need careful monitoring and referral for lung transplantation.