Crystalloid Cardioplegia Research Articles

Protective efficacy of dinitrosyl iron complexes with reduced glutathione in cardioplegia and reperfusion.

Disturbed homeostasis of nitric oxide (NO) is one of the causes of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury during open-heart surgery. This study was designed to explore mechanisms of action of dinitrosyl iron complexes with reduced glutathione ({(GS-)2Fe+(NO+)2}+, DNIC-GS) added to crystalloid cardioplegia or reperfusion solution in isolated working rat hearts. Hearts of male Wistar rats were subjected to cardioplegic arrest by St. Thomas' Hospital cardioplegic solution (STH) and normothermic global ischemia followed by reperfusion. DNIC-GS were used with STH or during early reperfusion. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in the coronary effluent and myocardial contents of adenine nucleotides, phosphocreatine, and lactate were determined spectrophotometrically. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in the coronary effluent and myocardial DNIC content was assessed by EPR technique. Cardioplegia or reperfusion with DNIC-GS significantly improved recovery of coronary flow and cardiac function compared with control. Carboxy-[2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-imidozoline-1-oxy-3-oxide] (C-PTIO), a selective NO scavenger, reduced/abolished protective action of DNIC-GS. Enhanced recovery of cardiac function with DNIC-GS reduced LDH release in the coronary effluent, augmented recovery of myocardial energy state, and decreased formation of ROS-generating systems at reperfusion. Beneficial effects of DNIC-GS were related to the transfer of [Fe(NO)2] cores to thiol groups of myocardial proteins to form intracellular DNIC pools. The study concluded that DNIC-GS is a promising adjunct agent for metabolic and antioxidant protection of the heart during cardioplegic arrest and reperfusion.

Intermittent warm blood cardioplegia versus crystalloid cardioplegia in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery patients: Is there any difference in the early postoperative period?

Aim. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of two types of cardioplegia solutions, namely, blood and crystalloid cardioplegia in terms of clinical outcomes in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.Methods. The retrospective study recruited 2,539 coronary artery bypass grafting patients, with 1,070 (45%) of them receiving crystalloid and 1,289 (55%) blood cardioplegia as a primary cardioplegic agent. Propensity score matching was performed to create comparable patient groups. The primary endpoint of the study was hospital mortality and different postoperative outcomes.Results. Patients receiving blood cardioplegia versus those with crystalloid cardioplegia were found out to have higher rate of acute kidney injury (15.7% vs 11.8%; OR=0.72; p=0.01) and postoperative ventilatory support (Ме=5:35 vs Me=5; p<0.05). During ventilatory support, the crystalloid cardioplegia patients demonstrated lower hemoglobin (Me=65 g/l vs Me=74 g/l; p<0.01) and hematocrit (Me=21% vs Mе=24%; p<0.01). Intraoperatively, packed red blood cells were administered in blood cardioplegia patients by 30% more often than in crystalloid cardioplegia ones (24% vs 19.6%; OR=0.77; p=0.02). Patients receiving crystalloid cardioplegia had a greater postoperative fluid balance (Me=1,700 ml vs Mе=1,350 ml; p<0.01) more frequent use of inotrope and vasopressor therapy (4.5% vs 2.8%; OR=1.64; p=0.04) and a longer stay in intensive care unit (p<0.01).No statistically significant differences were observed concerning perioperative and postoperative myocardial infarction, low cardiac output syndrome or intra-aortic balloon pumping, allogeneic blood transfusions in the postoperative period, episodes of atrial fibrillation, gastrointestinal complications, reoperation due to any cause, length of stay in hospital, hospital mortality.Conclusion. Blood cardioplegia might decrease the need in inotrope and vasopressor therapy, length of stay in intensive care unit, but it increases the rate of acute kidney injury, risk of allogeneic blood transfusions and durability of postoperative ventilatory support. Received 1 August 2018. Revised 18 October 2018. Accepted 22 October 2018.Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.Author contributionsConception and study design: M.E. Evdokimov, A.A. Gornostaev, V.V. BazylevData collection and analysis: M.E. Evdokimov, A.A. Gornostaev, A.A. Schegolkov, A.V. BulyginStatistical analysis: A.A. Schegolkov, A.V. BulyginDrafting the article: A.A. Schegolkov, A.V. BulyginCritical revision of the article: M.E. Evdokimov, A.A. Gornostaev, V.V. BazylevFinal approval of the version to be published: V.V. Bazylev, M.E. Evdokimov, A.A. Gornostaev, A.A. Schegolkov, A.V. Bulygin

EP11 DOES TYPE OF CARDIOPLEGIA AFFECT THE INCIDENCE OF POSTOPERATIVE PAROXYSMAL ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING CARDIAC SURGERY?

Abstract Background and Aim: Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is the most frequent complication following cardiac surgery. Despite high incidence, its etiology remains uncler. Aim of our investigation was to analyze retrospectively the pathogenetic role of different types of cardioplegia on the onset of PAF. Methods: Sixty-hundred and sixty patients underwent on-pump cardiac surgery between January 2015 and October 2016. Redo operations and emergency surgery were excluded. The types of cardiolplegic solution administered were warm blood cardioplegia (Calafiore, n = 480), cold crystalloid extracellular cardioplegia (St. Thomas, n = 71), cold crystalloid intracellular cardioplegia (Custodiol, n = 109). The way of admistation was antegrade for all types of cardioplegic solution. Results: The incidence of postoperative PAF was 36.2% (239 patients). Two-hundred patients were initially treated by mens of amiodarone infusion that successfully allowed cardioversion in 167 cases (83.5%); in the other 39 patients were initially administered other drugs (i.e. verapamil e.v./per os, beta-blokers per os). A relation between the type of cardioplegic solution and the onset of postoperative PAF was not found (Calafiore, n = 180, 37.5%; St. Thomas, n = 22, 31%; Custodiol, n = 37, 34%; p = NS). Advanced age at operation (71.3 ± 8.7 vs. 65.7 ± 11 years) was the only independent predictor of PAF (p < 0.001). Non-coronary surgery was found as risk factor for PAF at the univariate analysis only (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The use of different type of cardioplegic solutions, and at different temperatures, does not correlate with the onset of postoperative PAF. Initial treatment strategy with amiodarone infusion allows pharmacological cardioversion of PAF in over 80% of cases.

RF67 REDO MITRAL SURGERY AND HOSPITAL OUTCOME: A MULTICENTRE EXPERIENCE REGARDING SURGICAL FACTORS AND COMPLICATIONS

Background and Aim: Redo mitral surgery is an high risk procedure. Several preoperative conditions identify patients at unusual surgical risk. Few studies clarify technical issues and perioperative complications affecting early survival. The aim of this multicentre study is to determine predictors of adverse outcome among intraoperative factors and postoperative events. Methods: Operative mortality and major morbidity events from 832 redo mitral procedures, from January 2005 to December 2014 at eight European centres, were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed by the SPSS 13.0 program for Windows (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Normally distributed continuous variables were compared using the unpaired t-test, not-normally distributed variables using the Mann–Whitney U-test and categorical variables using the χ2test. Only variables with a P < 0.10 at univariable analysis were included into the regression models. Results: Injury of a previous patent left internal mammary artery graft (LIMA) [odds ratio (OR) 4.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6–11.5; P = 0.005], major cardiovascular iatrogenic lesions at re-entry (OR 19.2, 95% CI: 9.2–39.9; P < 0.001), extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia (OR 7.3, 95% CI: 1.4–37.8; P = 0.018) and incremental cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.2; P = 0.001) independently predicted operative mortality. Conclusion: Operative mortality in redo mitral surgery is still significant. Injury of a previous LIMA graft identifies patients at higher. Prolonged cross-clamp times, extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia, massive transfusions, perioperative myocardial infarction, prolonged intubation also predict adverse early outcome. Combined antegrade + retrograde cardioplegia seems to be the only protective factor these high-risk patients.

VD21 VALVE SPARING PROCEDURE IN BICUSPID AORTIC VALVE

We present a valve sparing operation performed in a 48-year-old male patient with a bicuspid aortic valve, moderate central regurgitation and 50 mm ascending aorta aneurysm. Cardiopulmonary bypass was established by aortic arch and right atrium cannulation, the antegrade crystalloid cardioplegia was administered. The aortic valve was exposed and a fusion between the two coronary cusps identified (Sievers type 1). We decided for a shaving resection of the median raphe with a free edge leaflet reinforcement by Gore-tex 6/0 continuous suture. The valve was then reimplanted in a 30 mm Valsalva graft conduit. The procedure was finally completed with reimplantation of the coronary ostia and distal anastomosis, performed with the interposition of two teflon felts. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram confirmed the good surgical result. The patient was discharged a week later with no major post-operative events and a trivial aortic insufficiency at the trans-thoracic echocardiography.

Effect of Fast Cardioplegic Arrest Induced by Adenosine on Cardiac Troponin Levels After Heart Valve Surgery

Cellular injury is not avoidable with current cardioplegic solutions. The effect of adenosine on reducing cardiac injury post-surgery is controversial. The objective of the current study is to evaluate the effect of fast cardioplegic arrest induced by adenosine on high sensitive cardiac troponin I after heart valve surgery. Forty-five (45) patients with rheumatic heart diseases underwent heart valve surgery using conventional approach through median sternotomy. They were classified into two groups, group I (n=21) patients received 0.25mg/kg adenosine into the aortic root just after aortic cross-clamping and before infusion of the cold hyperkalaemic crystalloid cardioplegia via antegrade route and group II (n=24) who received cold crystalloid hyperkalaemic cardioplegia without adenosine. Cardiac troponin I was measured preoperatively and on postoperative days 0, 3 and 7. There was no significant difference between both groups in the demographic, preoperative and operative data. Adenosine significantly reduced arrest time. Postoperative high sensitive cardiac troponin I increased significantly in both groups compared to the preoperative levels and the rise continued till postoperative day 3. Troponin levels were significantly lower in the adenosine group compared to the control at all measurements. The clinical outcomes were non-significant different between groups. Using adenosine in inducing fast cardioplegic arrest in heart valve surgery after aortic cross clamp and prior to infusion of the cold cardioplegia had significantly decreased postoperative cardiac troponin levels which was used as a proxy for cellular injury compared to the control group.

Comparative Effects of Blood and Crystalloid Cardioplegia on Cellular Injury and Oxidative Stress in Cardiovascular Surgery

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different cardioplegic solutions on endothelial integrity and oxidative stress in cardiovascular surgery.Methods: In this randomized prospective study, after ethics approval and informed consent, 60 surgical patients were included. Patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery were randomized into two groups as warm blood cardioplegia (n = 30) and cold crystalloid cardioplegia (n = 30) following the cross-clamping. Measurements were performed at three time points: before induction of anesthesia (T1), at admission to intensive care unit (ICU) (T2) and at the 24th postoperative hour (T3). Besides biochemical routine hemodynamic monitoring, patients were assessed for the sialic acid (SA), ischemic-modified albumin (IMA), advanced oxide protein products (AOPPs), total thiol (SH), and free hemoglobin (fHb) level.Results: Neither crystalloid nor blood cardioplegia led to significant changes in the AOPPs, T-SH, and SA level (p >0.05). Crystalloid cardioplegia, however, increased IMA level compared to both baseline (p <0.01) and blood cardioplegia group (p <0.05). fHb levels were transiently increased in both groups at the second-time point (p <0.001). fHb level was lower in the crystalloid group compared to that in the other group (p <0.05) at T2.Conclusion: Cardioplegia type creates similar effects on glycocalyx integrity. However, myocardial protection could be provided with warm blood cardioplegia.

Blood cardioplegia benefits only patients with a long cross-clamp time.

A clear advantage of blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia has not yet been observed in smaller population studies. The purpose of this article was to further investigate the clinical outcomes of blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia in a large propensity-matched cohort of patients who underwent cardiac surgery. The study was a single-centre study. Data was withdrawn from the Western Denmark Heart Registry, which comprises a perfusion section for each procedure. A total of 4,852 patients were propensity matched into crystalloid (CC) vs blood cardioplegia (BC) groups. The primary end points were creatinine kinase-MB (CKMB) elevation, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, dialysis, coronary angiography (CAG) and mortality (30 days and 6 months). We found lower odds ratio in 30-day mortality in the BC group (OR 0.21; CI 0.06-0.68), but no difference in overall 6-month mortality. There was no difference in CKMB elevation, AMI, dialysis or stroke. Several end points were further analysed for different cross-clamp times. In the CC group, ventilation time above 600 minutes was seen more often in almost all cross-clamp time intervals (23.5 % vs 12.2 %; p<0.0001; χ2-test) and 6-month mortality was significantly higher when the cross-clamp time exceeded 210 minutes (64.3 vs 23.8; p=0.018; χ2-test). We did not find clear evidence of superiority of either type in the uncomplicated patient. When prolonged cross-clamp time or postoperative ventilation is expected, this study indicates that blood cardioplegia might be preferable.

Endoscopy in aortic valve repair: does it worth it?

Aortic valve repair (AVR) is a technically challenging procedure. Usually, the repaired valve is checked after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). We aimed to evaluate intraoperative and clinical outcomes of AVR patients in whom intraoperative aortic root endoscopy was applied. The present study was a retrospective single-center study. An autoclavable video-scope was used to evaluate aortic valve. During endoscopy, crystalloid cardioplegia was administered to pressurize the aortic root. Primary endpoints were: need for Re-CPB after weaning from bypass and early postoperative aortic valve regurgitation. Secondary endpoints included: 30-day mortality and freedom from aortic regurgitation/reoperation during follow-up. A total of 66 consecutive patients who underwent AVR (05/2014-03/2017) were evaluated. Patients mean age was 53.5±14.5 years and 74.2% were male. Seventy-three percent of the patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/IV. The main underlying aortic valve pathology was aortic valve regurgitation in 83.3%, 9.1% aortic stenosis and combination of both in 7.6%. A tricuspid or bicuspid aortic valve was observed in 48.5% and 43.9%, respectively, whereas 7.6% showed a functional unicuspid aortic valve. Intraoperative results revealed endoscopy as a helpful tool, where second time cross-clamp was avoided in most (58, 87.9%) of patients. Thirty-day mortality was 3.0%. During follow-up (28±10 months), 2 patients required re-operation due to recurrent aortic valve regurgitation. The present analysis showed, that intraoperative aortic valve endoscopy is a helpful tool to evaluate AVR before weaning from bypass. This easy-to-use tool gives real-time information about the intraoperative result and might provide additional guidance to achieve optimal results after AVR.

Our modified technique of combined antegrade-vein graft cardioplegia infusion versus conventional antegrade method in coronary artery bypass grafting. A randomized clinical trial

BackgroundTo determine the efficacy of antegrade cardioplegia supplemented with venous graft perfusion in patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods223 consecutive patients scheduled for isolated CABG were randomized to receive either continuous crystalloid cardioplegia via vein grafts on completion of each distal anastomosis plus intermittent blood cardioplegia through aortic root (group 1, n = 110) or antegrade blood cardioplegia alone (group 2, n = 113). Two groups were similar in terms of preoperative patients' and procedural characteristics. The primary end-points were low output syndrome (LOS) variables. ResultsThe inotrope and intra-aortic balloon pump demand during weaning were significantly higher in the control group (31.8% vs. 20%, p = 0.043 and 7.9% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.034 respectively). Postoperative level of potassium and arterial base excess (BE), stood in the normal range in both groups, despite significant inter-group differences. Peak serum level of myocardial injury biomarkers (CK, CK-MB, and cTnI) at 12 h following operation, though markedly greater in the group 2, did not reach the cut-off point of myocardial necrosis. Postoperative arrhythmia was more commonly encountered in the control group (p = 0.045).The duration of ventilation and hospital stay were considerably longer in the group 2. In a subgroup with LVEF<30%, the length of ICU stay was more prolonged in the control group, as well (p = 0.0145). The significant differences among groups regarding LOS parameters were more remarkable in the two high-risk subgroups (LVEF<30%, left main coronary stenosis). ConclusionsGiven the better postoperative cardiac performance, we recommend this method to all CABG candidates, particularly in higher-risk patients.

Cold crystalloid versus warm blood cardioplegia in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement.

Myocardial protection techniques during cardiac arrest have been extensively investigated in the clinical setting of coronary revascularization. Fewer studies have been carried out of patients affected by left ventricular hypertrophy, where the choice of type and temperature of cardioplegia remain controversial. We have retrospectively investigated myocardial injury and short-term outcome in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement plus or minus coronary artery bypass grafting with using cold crystalloid cardioplegia (CCC) or warm blood cardioplegia (WBC). From January 2015 to October 2016, 191 consecutive patients underwent aortic valve replacement plus or minus coronary artery bypass grafting in normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. Cardiac arrest was obtained with use of intermittent antegrade CCC group (n=32) or WBC group (n=159), according with the choice of the surgeon. As compared with WBC group, in CCC group creatine-kinase-MB (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) release, and their peak levels, were lower during each time points of evaluation, with the greater statistically significant difference at time 0 (P<0.05, for all comparisons). A time 0, CK-MB/CK ratio >10% was 5.9% in CCC group versus 7.8% in WBC group (P<0.0001). At time 0 CK-MB/CK ratio >10% in patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement was 6.0% in CCC group versus 8.0% in WBC group (P<0.01). No any difference was found in perioperative myocardial infarction (0% versus 3.8%), postoperative (PO) major complications (15.6% versus 16.4%), in-hospital mortality (3.1% versus 1.3%). In aortic valve surgery a significant decrease of myocardial enzymes release is observed in favor of CCC, but this difference does not translate into different clinical outcome. However, this study suggests that in presence of cardiac surgical conditions associated with significant left ventricular hypertrophy, i.e., the aortic valve disease, a better myocardial protection can be achieved with the use of a cold rather than a warm cardioplegia. Therefore, CCC can be still safely used.

Does the Type of Cardioplegia Solution Affect Intraoperative Glucose Levels? A Propensity-Matched Analysis

Myocardial protection during cardiac surgery is a multifaceted process that is structured to limit injury and preserve function. Evolving techniques use solutions with varying constituents that enter the systemic circulation and alter intrinsic systemic concentrations. This study compared two distinct cardioplegia solutions on affecting intraoperative glucose levels. Data were abstracted from a multi-institutional perfusion registry, including a total of 1,188 propensity-matched cases performed from January through October 2016, at 17 cardiac surgical centers across the United States in which both del Nido and 4:1 cardioplegia were used during the study period. Covariate data included insulin administration, crystalloid cardioplegia volume, diabetes history, glucose at operating room entry, and nine additional variables. Primary and secondary endpoints were the highest intraoperative glucose level and maximum glucose in excess of 180 mg/dL. Mixed-effects multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to assess the primary and secondary endpoints, respectively, allowing for statistical control of center and surgeon effects. Greater median crystalloid cardioplegia volume was given in the del Nido group (n = 594) 1,040 mL [interquartile range (IQR) = {800, 1,339}] compared with the 4:1 group (n = 594) 466 mL [IQR = {360, 660}] in the 4:1 group (p &lt; .001) despite these groups being statistically indistinguishable in terms of bypass and cross-clamp times as well as seven other patient covariates. More patients required intraoperative insulin drip in the 4:1 group compared with del Nido (65.7% vs. 56.2%, p &lt; .001). Multivariable linear mixed-effects analysis yielded an estimated maximum intraoperative glucose for the del Nido group of 177.8 mg/dL compared with that of the 4:1 group, 183.5 mg/dL—a statistically significant reduction of 5.7 mg/dL (p = .03). Multivariable logistic mixed-effects analysis showed a statistically nonsignificant reduction in the likelihood of crossing the 180 mg/dL threshold for del Nido compared with 4:1 (odds ratio [OR] = .79, p = .214). After controlling for known confounding variables, intraoperative maximum glucose levels for the del Nido group were 5.7 mg/dL lower than that of the 4:1 group; there was limited evidence suggesting a difference between methods in the likelihood of exceeding the threshold of 180 mg/dL intraoperatively. Further research is warranted to examine the differential effects of cardioplegia solution on intraoperative glucose levels.

Warm blood cardioplegia versus cold crystalloid cardioplegia for myocardial protection during coronary artery bypass grafting surgery

We retrospectively analyzed early results of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery using two different types of cardioplegia for myocardial protection: antegrade intermittent warm blood or cold crystalloid cardioplegia. From January 2015 to October 2016, 330 consecutive patients underwent isolated on-pump CABG. Cardiac arrest was obtained with use of warm blood cardioplegia (WBC group, n = 297) or cold crystalloid cardioplegia (CCC group, n = 33), according to the choice of the surgeon. Euroscore II and preoperative characteristics were similar in both groups, except for the creatinine clearance, slightly lower in WBC group (77.33 ± 27.86 mL/min versus 88.77 ± 51.02 mL/min) (P < 0.05). Complete revascularization was achieved in both groups. In-hospital mortality was 2.0% (n = 6) in WBC group, absent in CCC group. The required mean number of cardioplegia’s doses per patient was higher in WBC group (2.3 ± 0.8) versus CCC group (2.0 ± 0.7) (P = 0.045), despite a lower number of distal coronary artery anastomoses (2.7 ± 0.8 versus 3.2 ± 0.9) (P = 0.0001). Cardiopulmonary and aortic cross-clamp times were similar in both groups. The incidence of perioperative myocardial infarction (WBC group 3.4% versus CCC group 3.0%) and low cardiac output syndrome (4.4% versus 3.0%) were similar in both groups. As compared with WBC group, in CCC group CK-MB/CK ratio >10% was lower during each time points of evaluation, with a statistical significant difference at time 0 (4% ± 1.6% versus 5% ± 2.5%) (P = 0.021). In presence of complete revascularization, despite the value of CK-MB/CK ratio >10% was less in the CCC group, clinical results were not affected by both types of cardioplegia adopted to myocardial protection. As compared with cold crystalloid, warm blood cardioplegia requires a shorter interval of administration to achieve better myocardial protection.

L-carnitine on myocardial function after coronary artery bypass grafting.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of L-carnitine on postoperative cardiac performance and morbidity and complications in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Between April 2005 and June 2008, a total of 60 patients (36 males, 24 females; mean age 60.6 years; range 57 to 65) who were scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting were prospectively randomized to receive one of three different strategies of myocardial preservation. Group A (n=20) received antegrade crystalloid cardioplegia, Group B (n=20) received antegrade blood cardioplegia, and Group C (n=20) received antegrade blood cardioplegia with carnitine. Samples for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine phosphokinase (CPK), creatinine phosphokinasemyocardial band (CK-MB), and Troponin-I were taken from coronary sinus during the operation and from peripheral venous line postoperatively. Blood samples were obtained before CPB, just after CPB and postoperative 1, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours. Levels of CPK, CK-MB and Troponin-T levels were studied by immunoassay method. The patients who received carnitine had significantly improved cardiac output, cardiac index, and right and left ventricular stroke work immediately after cardiopulmonary bypass and at the first postoperative hour (p=0.01). Troponin-T levels decreased in all patients after 12 hours postoperatively, and this change was most prominent in Group C (p=0.001). Intravenous supplementation of carnitine during cardioplegia provides better results on the recovery of cardiac function and metabolic parameters after coronary artery bypass grafting.

The effect of ultrafiltration on end-cardiopulmonary bypass hematocrit during cardiac surgery.

Ultrafiltration (UF) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is a well-accepted method for hemoconcentration to reduce excess fluid and increase hematocrit, platelet count and plasma constituents. The efficacy of this technique may confer specific benefit to certain patients presenting with acquired cardiac defects. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effect of UF on end-CPB hematocrit by cardiac surgical procedure type. A review of 73,506 cardiac procedures from a national registry (SCOPE) was conducted between April 2012 and October 2016 at 197 institutions. Cases included in this analysis were those completed without intraoperative red blood cell transfusion and where zero-balance UF was not used. The primary end point was the last hematocrit reading taken before the end of CPB, with a secondary end point of urine output during CPB. In order to isolate the effect of the UF volume removed, we controlled for a number of confounding factors, including: first hematocrit on CPB, total asanguineous volume, estimated circulating blood volume, CPB urine output, total volume of crystalloid cardioplegia, total volume of other asanguineous fluids administered by both perfusion and anesthesia, type of cardiac procedure, acuity, gender, age and total time on CPB. Descriptive statistics were calculated among five subgroups according to the UF volume removed: no volume removed and quartiles across the range of UF volume removed. The effect of UF volume on primary and secondary end points was modeled using ordinary least squares and restricted cubic splines in order to assess possible non-linearity in the effect of the UF volume while controlling for the above-named confounding factors. An interaction term was included in each model to account for possible differences by procedure type. The study found a statistically significant non-linear pattern in the relationship between the UF volume removed and the last hematocrit on bypass (X2 = 172.5, df=24, p<0.001). For most procedure types, UF was most effective at increasing the last hematocrit on CPB, from 1 mL to approximately 2.5 L, with continued improvements in hematocrit coming more slowly as the UF volume was increased above 2.5 L. There were statistically significant interactions between UF and procedure type (X2 = 78.5, df=24, p<0.0001) as well as UF and starting hematocrit on CPB (X2 = 234.0, df=4, p<0.0001). In a secondary end-point model, there was a statistically significant relationship between the ultrafiltration volume removed and urine output on bypass (X2 = 598.9, df=28, p<0.001). The use of UF during CPB resulted in significant increases in end-hematocrit, with the greatest benefit shown when volumes were under 2.5 L. We saw a positive linear benefit up to 2.5 L removed and, thereafter, in most procedures, the benefit leveled off. However, of note is markedly decreased urine output on bypass as the ultrafiltration volumes increase.

Comparative Study between Three Solutions for Cardioplegia in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK) Solution, Blood Cardioplegia and Crystalloid (St. Thomas) Cardioplegia

Background: Cardioplegia is the solution used to arrest and protect the heart during aortic cross-clamping. Crystalloid and blood cardioplegia are both widely used in clinical practice. Custodial-HTK solution is an intracellular cardioplegic solution containing histidine, tryptophan and ketoglutarate. Aim: we compared the myocardial protective effects of 3 types of cardioplegia solution: The histidine–tryptophan– ketoglutarate (HTK) solution, blood and St.Thomas cardioplegia in pediatric cardiac surgery. Settings and Design: This study design was a prospective randomized controlled double blinded clinical study. Patients and Methods: 60 children aged 3-10 yrs of either sex who underwent elective cardiac surgery for acyanotic heart diseases using cardiopulmonary bypass were randomly allocated to three groups each one 20 patients: Group A received HTK cardioplegia. Group B received blood cardioplegia. Group C received St, Thomas cardioplegia. Hemodynamic parameters, duration of CPB, aortic cross clamping and the whole surgical duration, mechanical ventilation duration and the length of ICU stay were measured. Venous blood samples were collected for measurement of cardiac marker proteins (CK-MB) and troponin (t). Uses of inotropic support were also recorded. Statistical Analysis Used: one-way ANOVA test and Chi-square test were used. Results: The main findings in our results were that troponin (t) levels were not statistically significant different among the study groups except that recorded 24 h, with the highest level was in the group (B) and the lowest one in the group (C). CK-MB levels also were not statistically significant different among the study groups except that recorded after 12 h the highest one in group (C) and the lowest one in group (B). Conclusion: Single dose of cold HTK cardioplegia in pediatric cardiac surgery is as effective as multiple doses of cold blood and crystalloid (St.Thomas) cardioplegia in protecting the myocardium.

Mitral Valve Replacement in Senegal (West Africa): Indication and Short-Term Outcomes

The West African countries have infrequent Cardiac Surgery Centers. Mitral valve replacement (MVR) from such countries raises important postoperative preoccupations. The aim of this study is to report indication and short-term outcomes of MVR at the Cardiac Surgery Center of the University Hospital in Dakar (Senegal). This is a retrospective analytical and descriptive study covering a period of 19 months (From January 2015 to July 2016). All patients with MVR associated or not with tricuspid valve repair were included in this study. Seventy-three (73) patients were eligible. The mean follow-up was 4.2 ± 4 months (range, 1-12). The mean age was 30.4 ± 13 years (range, 9–64). There were 74% of female patients, 53% were in New York Heart Association class III. Preoperative diagnoses were mitral stenosis (31.5%); mitral regurgitation (37%) and mixed mitral disease (31.5%). Crystalloid cardioplegia was performed in 92%, mean CPB time was 79 ± 21 min, mean cross clamp time was 58 ± 15.6 min. Mitral valve exposure was performed by left atriotomy (93%); 99% of mechanical prosthesis was performed. Tricuspid valve repair was performed concomitantly in 48% of patients. Overall Hospital mortality was 8%. Postoperative complications were low output syndrome (19%), pneumonia (12%), surgical wound infection (8%), Pleural effusion (7%). During follow-up, no valve-related morbidity and mortality was recorded. Mechanical valve replacement in Senegal has acceptable early outcomes in terms of morbi-mortality. Preoperative diagnoses were represented in equivalent proportions by mitral stenosis; mitral regurgitation and mixed mitral disease. Our complications were predominantly low output syndrome and pleura pulmonary disorders.

Type of cardioplegic solution as a factor influencing the clinical outcome of open-heart congenital procedures.

IntroductionCardioplegia is one of the most important modalities of myocardial protection during heart surgery.AimTo assess the impact of blood cardioplegia on postoperative variables, in comparison with two types of crystalloid cardioplegic solutions during pediatric heart surgery.Material and methodsOne thousand one hundred and twenty-nine patients underwent surgical correction of congenital heart disease with cardioplegia administration between 2006 and 2012. Nonlinear regression models of postoperative low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) incidence, catecholamine index and total complication count were developed using a genetic algorithm. The Akaike information criterion was applied for selection of the best model. The following explanatory variables were evaluated: cardioplegia type (ST – Saint Thomas, n = 440; FR – Fresenius, n = 432; BL – Calafiore, n = 257), congenital heart diseases (CHD) type, age, sex, genetic disorder presence, body surface area (BSA), cardiopulmonary bypass (CBP) time, aortic cross-clamp time, operation urgency, redo surgery, surgeon.ResultsLow cardiac output syndrome presence and higher than average catecholamine indexes were negatively influenced by use of crystalloid cardioplegia (ST or FR), presence of specific CHDs, redo surgery and prolonged CBP time. Increased complication count was related to: crystalloid cardioplegia, presence of specific CHDs, redo surgery, urgency of operation, operation time and CBP time. Higher BSA had a protective effect against higher catecholamine index and increased complication count. Older age was protective against LCOS.ConclusionsCardioplegic solutions type influences postoperative variables in children after heart surgery by the negative impact of crystalloid cardioplegia. Blood cardioplegia presents potential advantages for patients – its application may reduce the incidence of low cardiac output syndrome and related complications.

Single Dose Cold Blood Cardioplegia in Adult Patients: rationale and technique description

Different cardioplegia techniques and strategies have demonstrated to be safe and useful in cardiac surgery. After having employed a series of strategies and according to results published by others and us, ease of use and hospital costs we devised a single dose blood cold cardioplegia strategy. Based on observations and the rationale for the use of blood, crystalloid, cold and warm cardioplegia, we have modified a blood-based cardioplegia to be delivered in a hypothermic single dose strategy with a minimum addition of substrates using each patient´s own blood which results in a simple, low cost technique.

Does the Type of Cardioplegic Technique Influence Hemodilution and Transfusion Requirements in Adult Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery?

During cardiac surgery, myocardial protection is performed using diverse cardioplegic (CP) solutions with and without the presence of blood. New CP formulations extend ischemic intervals but use high-volume, crystalloid-based solutions. The present study evaluated four commonly used CP solutions and their effect on hemodilution during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Records from 16,670 adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB between February 2016 and January 2017 were reviewed. Patients were classified into one of four groups according to CP type: 4–1 blood to crystalloid (4:1), microplegia (MP), del Nido (DN) and histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate (HTK). Covariate-adjusted estimates of group differences were calculated using multivariable logistic and linear mixed effects regression models. The primary end point was intraoperative transfusion of allogeneic red blood cells (RBCs), with a secondary end point of intraoperative hematocrit change. Among all patients, 8,350 (50.1%) received 4:1, 4,606 (27.6%) MP, 3,344 (20.1%) DN, and 370 (2.2%) HTK. Both 4:1 and MP were more likely to be used in patients undergoing coronary revascularization surgery, whereas DN and HTK were seen more often in patients undergoing valve surgery (p&lt; .001). The highest volume of crystalloid CP solution was seen in the HTK group, 2,000 [1,754, 2200], whereas MP had the lowest, 50 [32, 67],p&lt; .001. Ultrafiltration usage was as follows: HTK—84.9%. DN—83.7%, MP—40.1%, and 4:1—34.0%,p&lt; .001. There were no statistically significant differences on the primary outcome risk of intraoperative RBC transfusion. However, statistically significant differences among all but one of the pair-wise comparisons of CP methods on hematocrit change (p&lt; .05 or smaller), with MP having the lowest predicted drift (−7.8%) and HTK having the highest (−9.4%). During cardiac surgery, the administration of different CP formulations results in varying intraoperative hematocrit changes related to the volume of crystalloid solution administered.