Intra-aortic Balloon Pump Support Research Articles

Acute-on-chronic heart failure leading to cardiogenic shock: any role for intra-aortic balloon pump? Results from a multicenter retrospective data collection

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) implantation has been significantly reduced since IABP-SHOCK II trial did not show any clinical benefit in acute myocardial infarction (AMI)-related cardiogenic shock (CS)(1). For a long time, AMI has been recognized as the first cause of CS; however, in the last years, acute-on-chronic heart failure (HF)-CS has become predominant. We hypothesized that in HF-CS population the IABP may decrease mortality having a role in decreasing left ventricular afterload and improving peripheral perfusion(2). Purpose To investigate whether, in this phenotypical category of cardiogenic shock, IABP could improve 28-days mortality. Methods Multicenter retrospective observational study including adult HF-CS patients admitted in cardiac or general intensive care units in 3rd level centers. Hemodynamic variables before (T0) and after IABP implantation (T1), pharmacological support and outcome data were collected. Independent samples t-test was applied to assess any difference between IABP and non-IABP group; Kaplan-Meier and Cox’s regression (forward stepwise method) were performed as survival analysis on 28-days mortality. Results 160 patients (35.6% female, 61 [47-74] years-old) were included from three centers; overall mortality was 42.5%. 50% received IABP support; amongst IABP patients, 24 received further MCS with VA-ECMO (p <0.001) and 4 with Impella (p 0.120). Patients’ baseline characteristics are shown in Figure 1-A. IABP patients had lower 28-days mortality. Patients who received IABP were younger, had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP) and lactate levels at T0. In reference to catecholaminergic drugs, patients supported with IABP had lower norepinephrine doses and vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) at baseline. After IABP implantation, no significant difference between the two groups in the time variation of these parameters was observed (Figure 1-B). Survival analysis graphs are shown in Figure 2. At Cox’s regression, a significant effect on 28-days mortality was found for IABP (HR 0.510 [0.293-0.887], p 0.017), SCAI classification-stage D (HR 2.582 [1.315-5.072], p 0.006), VIS-T0 above 15 (HR 2.348 [1.407-3.921], p 0.001) and SBP-T0 above 95 mmHg (HR 1.361 [1.016-1.823], p 0.039); no significant association was found for age above 61 years (overall median value) (p 0.091), mechanical ventilation (p 0.367), PP-T0 (0 0.081) and lactate-T0 (p 0.227). Conclusions Considering the specific pathophysiology of HF-CS, IABP may have a role in reducing mortality. These retrospective data need to be validated and compared with those deriving from ongoing randomized controlled trials(3).

What if youth is not enough? Acute coronary syndrome in young patients

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS) are the leading cause of mortality in Spain. Further research is needed in order to know risk factors and outcomes in young patients so that medicians could optimize their management and prevention. Purpose Identifying risk factors, clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndrome in patients aged 40 and under. Methods A retrospective analysis of patients under 40 years of age who were admitted for ACS, out of 3,859 ACS admissions in Cardiology Intensive Care Unit (CICU) in our hospital between 2012 and 2022. Results 67 patients (1.73%) were included, most of them were males (83.6%). Baseline characteristics are summarized in Table 1. 77.6% had hypertension (HTA), 22.4% had diabetes (DM) and 34.3% had dyslipidemia (DLP). 79.1% were smokers, 9.1% had a history of alcoholism and 29.9% were cocaine users. None of them had a history of stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF). Only 3% had ischemic heart disease. 68.7% of them were ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and inferior STEMI was the most common (38.7%). In anterior STEMI (22 patients), 15 had a severe lesion in the mid-left anterior descending artery (LAD), and 6 in the left main stem (LM). Single-vessel disease was the most common (70.8%), with 3-vessel disease in 4.6%. 75.8% received percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 3% underwent bypass surgery. During admission, 10.5% progressed to Killip class III-IV. The ICU mortality was 1.5%. 9% received vasoactive drugs and 4.5% were intubated. Non-invasive ventilation was used in 3% and high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in 5.3%. 3% received intra-aortic balloon pump support and 1.5% underwent dialysis or ultrafiltration. 4.5% received an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), although none of them developed bundle branch block or atrioventricular node block, nor AF. After discharge, 11.1% had recurrent ACS, and up to 5.6% underwent PCI again, with a mortality rate of 11.8%. Conclusion Approximately 2% of ACS occur in people younger than 40 years of age. Substance abuse (smoking, cocaine and alcoholism) becomes more prevalent in this group. Prevalence of comorbidities (such as diabetes and nephropathy) are lower, making them less prone to short-term heart failure. However, they are more susceptible to recurrent ischemic events. There is a high incidence of inferior STEMI and LM-STEMI. For these reasons, medicians may need to find out a substance abuse in this group and further research into other risk factors, such as coronary disease family history.Basal characteristicsClinical evolution of patients

Correlation between Post-operative Serum Lactate Levels and Low Cardiac Output Syndrome in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Prospective Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the correlation between the development of low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) and post-operative serum lactate levels in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery at a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2021, involving 50 patients undergoing CABG surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Arterial samples were obtained immediately post-surgery and at six, twelve, and twenty-four-hour intervals post-operatively. The association between lactate levels and the occurrence of LCOS, need for inotropic support, and intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) utilization was evaluated. Results: The study comprised predominantly male patients (84%). Patients were categorized into two groups based on lactate levels: Group 1 (> 4 mmol/L) and Group 2 (< 4 mmol/L). In Group 1, 32% of patients developed LCOS, 10% required IABP, and 20% needed inotropic and vasopressor support. Immediately post-CABG, the mean lactate level was 7.5 mmol/L, with 3% requiring IABP and 20% needing double inotropic support. Lactate levels decreased over time, with mean levels at six, twelve, and twenty-four hours post-surgery being 6.3 mmol/L, 3.8 mmol/L, and 3.3 mmol/L, respectively. Correspondingly, the need for IABP and inotropic support decreased. LCOS occurrence within 24 hours post-surgery correlated significantly with elevated lactate levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Elevated lactate levels were associated with the development of LCOS within 24 hours post-CABG surgery. Monitoring lactate levels postoperatively may serve as a valuable tool in predicting and managing LCOS in CABG patients.

RotaTripsy Risk and Rewards: Findings from a Registry of Patients Undergoing Combined Rotational Atherectomy and Intravascular Lithotripsy

Background: Heavily calcified coronary artery lesions are a therapeutic challenge for interventional cardiologists worldwide. Recently, RotaTripsy has gained popularity as a calcium modification technique prior to stent implantation. In this procedure, operators employ rotational atherectomy to debulk luminal calcium alongside intravascular lithotripsy to fracture deeper concentric calcifications. Aims: To identify the demographics and outcomes of patients undergoing RotaTripsy. Methods: Baseline clinical characteristics, procedural details and in-hospital and 30-day outcomes were recorded and reported for a registry of patients in whom combined rotational atherectomy and intravascular lithotripsy were performed in one procedure at the discretion of the primary operator at one high-volume tertiary centre. Results: Over 2020–2022, 57 consecutive patients underwent RotaTripsy during percutaneous coronary intervention. In this cohort, 23 (40%) had acute coronary syndrome and three (5.3%) had an ST-elevation MI. Additionally, 10 (18%) were on dialysis, 20 (35%) had unprotected left main coronary artery/left main coronary artery equivalent lesions, seven (12%) had acute heart failure and nine (16%) required intraprocedural intra-aortic balloon pump support. Of the procedures, 51 (89.5%) were successful, defined as successful stent implantation and <30% residual angiographic stenosis without in-hospital major adverse cardiac events. Complications included slow/no-reflow (six patients; 11%), cerebrovascular events (three patients; 5.3%), in-hospital MI (three patients; 5.3%) and mortality (three patients; 5.3%). The 30-day MI rate was 5.3% (three patients) and the mortality rate was 7.0% (four patients). Conclusion: RotaTripsy was successful in facilitating stent delivery and restoring flow, even in a relatively sick cohort. Nevertheless, complication rates were high, reflecting the challenge of treating these complex patients.

Predictors of left ventricular ejection fraction in high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions.

Revascularization completeness after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with improved long-term outcomes. Mechanical circulatory support [intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) or Impella] is used during high-risk PCI (HR-PCI) to enhance peri-procedural safety and achieve more complete revascularization. The relationship between revascularization completeness [post-PCI residual SYNTAX Score (rSS)] and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in HR-PCI has not been established. We investigated LVEF predictors at 90 days post-PCI with Impella or IABP support. Individual patient data (IPD) were analyzed from PROTECT II (NCT00562016) in the base case. IPD from PROTECT II and RESTORE-EF (NCT04648306) were naïvely pooled in the sensitivity analysis. Using complete cases only, linear regression was used to explore the predictors of LVEF at 90 days post-PCI. Models were refined using stepwise selection based on Akaike Information Criterion and included: treatment group (Impella, IABP), baseline characteristics [age, gender, race, New York Heart Association Functional Classification, LVEF, SYNTAX Score (SS)], and rSS. Impella treatment and higher baseline LVEF were significant predictors of LVEF improvement at 90 days post-PCI (p ≤ 0.05), and a lower rSS contributed to the model (p = 0.082). In the sensitivity analysis, Impella treatment, higher baseline LVEF, and lower rSS were significant predictors of LVEF improvement at 90 days (p ≤ 0.05), and SS pre-PCI contributed to the model (p = 0.070). Higher baseline LVEF, higher SS pre-PCI, lower rSS (i.e. completeness of revascularization), and Impella treatment were predictors of post-PCI LVEF improvement. The findings suggest potential mechanisms of Impella include improving the extent and quality of revascularization, and intraprocedural ventricular unloading.

Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Support in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction with Ventricular Septal Rupture

Background: An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is the device most frequently used as a bridge to surgical repair in cases of myocardial infarction. However, robust evidence of IABP support for patients with postinfarction ventricular septal rupture (VSR) remains lacking. This study was aimed at assessing the effect of IABP support on 30-day prognosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by VSR. Methods: Retrospective data for patients with VSR after AMI at Fuwai Hospital between April 2002 and August 2020 were analyzed. Patients were initially stratified into two groups according to IABP implantation. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to determine the cumulative incidence of 30-day all-cause mortality. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the independent risk factors for 30-day mortality. Results: A total of 92 patients (mean age of 67.8 ± 8.3 years; 46.7% male) were included, 59 of whom underwent IABP implantation. Patients with rather than without IABP treatment were younger, were more often male, and had a higher body mass index and lower mean blood pressure at the onset of VSR. At 30 days, all-cause death occurred in 21 patients in the IABP group (35.59%) and 31 patients in the group without IABP (93.94%). After adjustment for age, sex, left atrial diameter, left ventricular diameter, perforation diameter and ventricular aneurysm, IABP support was found to be an independent protective predictor of 30-day all-cause mortality (hazard ratio: 0.22; 95% confidence interval: 0.12 to 0.42; P < 0.001). Conclusions: IABP support was associated with lower 30-day mortality in patients with VSR after AMI. Patients with postinfarction VSR with hemodynamic instability or cardiogenic shock could receive IABP treatment as a bridge to surgical repair.

Acute Triple Coronary Artery Occlusion Leading to Cardiogenic Shock and Cardiac Arrest Emphasizing the Role of Mechanical Circulatory Support (Escalate before It’s Too Late)

We report a case of cardiac arrest in a 38-year-old male with no past medical history who presented as a case of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, and coronary angiography showed triple coronary artery thrombosis complicated with cardiogenic shock (CS) that warrants starting on inotropic support and insertion of intra-aortic balloon pump. CS diagnosis with a high likelihood of deterioration was established based on hemodynamics assessment; hence, an early prompt decision for escalation of mechanical circulatory support to Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) was made, which helped to prevent the patient’s further deterioration and organ damage. The patient had uneventful VA-ECMO decannulation and was transferred to the ward and discharged after 28 days in stable condition on oral medical therapy and was following up regularly in the cardiology clinic. Therefore, early hemodynamics assessment in acute myocardial infarction CS cases will help predict rapid worsening, which may require prompt escalation of mechanical circulatory support and perhaps improve the outcome.

Bloodstream infections in prolonged use of axillary-placed, intra-aortic balloon-pump support: A single-center study.

Infections from prolonged use of axillary intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABPs) have not been well studied. Bloodstream infection (BSI) occurred in 13% of our patients; however, no difference in outcome was noted between those with BSI and those without. Further studies regarding protocol developments that minimize BSI risk are needed.

Predictive value of residual SYNTAX score for clinical outcomes after High-Risk Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (HR-PCI): Evidence from pooled analysis of prospective studies

Abstract Background/Introduction Completeness of revascularisation (CR) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), which is associated with improved long-term patient outcomes, is commonly quantified with the post-PCI residual SYNTAX score (rSS). In High-Risk PCI (HR-PCI), trans-axial percutaneous Left Ventricular Assist Devices (pLVADs) provide higher procedural mechanical circulatory support than intra-aortic balloon pump (IABPs). We hypothesise that pLVADs may contribute to higher CR during HR-PCI. A direct quantitative relationship between revascularisation extent, measured via rSS, and long-term clinical outcomes has not yet been established in HR-PCI. NYHA Class allocation 90-days post-PCI and Ejection Fraction (EF) have been shown strongly predictive of long-term survival, Heart Failure (HF) hospitalization risk and Quality of Life (QoL). Purpose To investigate the relationship between revascularization completeness, NYHA Class and LVEF 90-days in patients undergoing HR-PCI with either pLVAD or IABP support. Methods Individual patient data (IPD) from the PROTECT II and RESTORE-EF prospective studies of pLVADs during HR-PCI were pooled. Using patients with sufficient information, ordinal logistic regressions were performed for NYHA and EF at 90-days post-PCI. All models were refined using stepwise deletion (threshold=0.05) and included treatment group (pLVAD or IABP), baseline age, gender, race, NYHA Class at baseline, LVEF at baseline, SYNTAX Score at baseline and post-procedural rSS. Results NYHA Class utilised 641 patients (484 pLVAD;157 IABP). Baseline SYNTAX, rSS and LVEF at baseline were significant predictors of NYHA Class at 90-days post HR-PCI. Specifically, a single-unit decrease in rSS increases the odds of the patient improving NYHA at 90-days vs. baseline by 2.2%±1.0% (Mean±SE, p=0.021). Utilising solely the subjects with sufficient information enrolled in PROTECT II (178 pLVAD; 157 IABP), post-procedural rSS was the only significant predictor of NYHA Class at 90-days with every single-unit decrease in rSS increasing the odds of NYHA improvement by 3.0%±1.2% (p=0.017). EF examined 622 (405 pLVAD; 217 IABP). Baseline SYNTAX, rSS and baseline LVEF significantly predicted Ejection Fraction at 90-days. A single-unit decrease in rSS leads to an absolute higher LVEF at 90-days of 0.246%±0.05% (p<0.001). Treatment group statistically predicted LVEF at 90-days. For the same level of revascularisation, pLVAD-supported procedures result in an absolute higher LVEF of 4.13%±1.21% (p=0.001). Conclusions Completeness of revascularization, as measured by level of reduction in rSS after a HR-PCI, is significantly predictive of NYHA Class improvement and Ejection Fraction gains at 90-day follow-up. pLVADs were also shown to further increase LVEF at 90-days vs. IABP. These data further support the need for complete revascularization in this patient population and help make additional therapeutic decisions post-PCI.

Abstract 11954: Predictors of Adverse Outcome in STEMI Patients Post-PCI With Cardiogenic Shock Requiring Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Support

Introduction: Cardiogenic shock is a serious complication of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), however clinical and demographic factors may further impact outcomes. This study investigated how age, gender, income, comorbidities, and arrhythmias affect mortality of STEMI patients receiving intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP) for management of cardiogenic shock. Methods: This retrospective study used the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2016 to 2020. We identified STEMI admissions as the principal diagnosis and cardiogenic shock as the secondary diagnosis. Patients who received IABP support were included using the ICD-10 Procedure Coding System (PCS) code 5A02210. Logistic linear regression was used to analyze the data while adjusting for confounding variables such as age, sex, and comorbidities. Results: Of the 24,915 admissions with STEMI requiring IABP post PCI, the average age was 65, 29.5% were female, 28.8% died and 51.7% patients had congestive heart failure. The highest mortality rate was associated with liver disease, followed by left bundle branch block, age over 65, ventricular fibrillation, renal failure, female gender, peripheral vascular disease (PVD), and ventricular tachycardia (table 1). Income in the bottom 25 th percentile also had increased mortality. Conclusion: This study identified several predictors of adverse outcomes in post-PCI STEMI patients with cardiogenic shock requiring IABP support, including ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, left bundle branch block, peripheral vascular disease, renal failure, liver disease, age 65 or older, female, and low income. These findings may aid in the management of STEMI patients with cardiogenic shock by allowing healthcare providers to identify patients at high risk for adverse outcomes and tailor their treatment accordingly.

Effect of peri-operative intra-aortic balloon pump in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting on outcomes in a resource limited setting.

Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) insertion for diminished myocardial function is standard of care in cardiac surgery. Previous studies have suggested a possible benefit to IABP support before surgery with regards to outcomes and complications. However, there are conflicts with other studies suggesting no significant benefit. Optimal time of insertion, whether preoperative or perioperative (intra-operative and post-operative), has yet to be defined. A retrospective, hospital records-based chart review was conducted for patients admitted to our center from January 2015 to December 2019 for coronary bypass surgery necessitating IABP insertion. Cases were stratified according to the timing of insertion and analyzed according to surgical outcomes and complication rates. Out of 97 patients, 84.5% underwent preoperative IABP insertion while 15.5% of patients received perioperative (Intra-operative or post-operative) insertion. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with perioperative IABP insertion as compared to the preoperative group (60% vs 20.7%, p = 0.003). However, there were no significant differences between 30-day readmission rates in the two groups (9.8% vs 6.7%, p = 1.000). Length of stay was also higher in patients with preoperative insertion of IABP (p = 0.032), with no significant difference in ICU stay (p = 0.107). Perioperative IABP patients had higher rates of arrhythmias (46.7%, p = 0.042) and reopening of patient (33.3%, p = 0.028). Our study shows improved mortality in patients with preoperatively inserted IABP. This may be beneficial for high-risk patients undergoing CABG surgery. Expanding the use of IABP before CABG in third world countries such as Pakistan may improve overall survival for patients.

Predicting Hemodynamic Changes During Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Support With a Longitudinal Evaluation.

The use of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) has decreased in recent years due to negative outcome studies in cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction, despite its favorable adverse-event profile. Acute hemodynamic response studies have identified potential super-responders with immediate improvements in cardiac index (CI) in heart failure patients. This single-center retrospective study aimed to predict CI and mean arterial pressure (MAP) changes throughout the entire duration of IABP support. The study analyzed 336 patients who received IABP between 2016 and 2022. Linear mixed-effect regression models were used to predict CI and MAP improvement during IABP support. The results showed that CI and MAP increases during the first days of support, and changes during IABP support varied with time and were associated with baseline parameters. Longitudinal CI change was associated with body surface area, baseline CI, baseline pulmonary artery pulsatility index, baseline need for pressors, and diabetes. Longitudinal MAP change was associated with baseline MAP, baseline heart rate, need for pressors, or inotropes. The study recommends considering these parameters when deciding if IABP is the most appropriate form of support for a specific patient. Further prospective studies are needed to validate the findings.

Endothelial and Hemodynamic Function in a Large Animal Model in Relation to Different Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Cannulation Strategies and Intra-Aortic Balloon Pumping.

The use of simultaneous veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) with or without an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) is a widely used tool for mechanical hemodynamic support. Endothelial function, especially in relation to different cannulation techniques, is rarely investigated in the setting of extracorporeal life support (ECLS). In this study, we analyzed endothelial function in relation to hemodynamic and laboratory parameters for central and peripheral ECMO, with or without concomitant IABP support in a large animal model to gain a better understanding of the underlying basic mechanisms. In this large animal model, healthy female pigs with preserved ejection fraction were divided into the following groups related to cannulation strategy for ECMO and simultaneous IBAP support: control (no ECMO, no IABP), peripheral ECMO (pECMO), central ECMO (cECMO), pECMO and IABP or cECMO and IABP. During the experimental setting, the blood flow in the ascending aorta, left coronary artery and arteria carotis was measured. Afterwards, endothelial function was investigated after harvesting the right coronary artery, arteria carotis and renal artery. In addition, laboratory markers, such as creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase muscle-brain (CK-MB), troponin, creatinine and endothelin were analyzed. The blood flow in the ascending aorta and the left coronary artery was significantly lower in all discussed experimental settings compared to the control group. Of note, the cECMO cannulation strategy generated favorable hemodynamic circumstances with higher blood flow in the coronary arteries than pECMO regardless of flow circumstances in the ascending aorta. The concomitant usage of IABP did not result in an improvement of the coronary blood flow, but partially showed a negative impact on the endothelial function of coronary arteries in comparison to the control. These findings correlate to higher CK/CK-MB levels in the setting of cECMO + IABP and pECMO + IABP. The usage of mechanical circulatory support with concomitant ECMO and IABP in a large animal model might have an influence on the endothelial function of coronary arteries while not improving the coronary artery perfusion in healthy hearts with preserved ejection.

Utilization of the percutaneous left ventricular support as bridge to heart transplantation across the United States: In-depth UNOS database analysis

Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and Impella device utilization as a bridge to heart transplantation (HTx) have risen exponentially. We aimed to explore the influence of device selection on HTx outcomes, considering regional practice variation. A retrospective longitudinal study was performed on a United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry dataset. We included adult patients listed for HTx between Oct 2018 and April 2022 as status 2, as justified by requiring IABP or Impella support. The primary endpoint was successful bridging to HTx as status 2. Of 32,806 HTx during the study period, 4,178 met inclusion criteria (Impella n = 650, IABP n = 3,528). Waitlist mortality increased from a nadir of 16 (in 2019) to a peak of 36 (in 2022) per thousand status 2 listed patients. Impella annual use increased from 8% in 2019 to 19% in 2021. Compared to IABP, Impella patients demonstrated higher medical acuity and lower success rate of transplantation as status 2 (92.1% vs. 88.9 %, P < 0.001). The IABP: Impella utilization ratio varied widely between regions, ranging from 1.77 to 21.31, with high Impella use in Southern and Western states. However, this difference was not justified by medical acuity, regional transplant volume, or waitlist time and did not correlate with waitlist mortality. The shift in utilizing Impella as opposed to IABP did not improve waitlist outcomes. Our results suggest that clinical practice patterns beyond mere device selection determine successful bridging to HTx. There is a critical need for objective evidence to guide tMCS utilization and a paradigm shift in the UNOS allocation system to achieve equitable HTx practice across the United States.

P80: Adding Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Counter-Pulsation To Vasodilator Therapy Results In Better Organ Perfusion In Patients With Biventricular Heart Failure Awaiting A Heart Transplant

Background: Significant right ventricular dysfunction with elevated central venous pressure is associated with poor survival in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Heart transplant is often the only option for this group of patients, as they are not candidates for left ventricular assist device therapy. Medical management of HFrEF involves lowering the systemic afterload with vasodilators. While this therapy is very effective in isolated left ventricular dysfunction, in patients with biventricular dysfunction and high venous pressure, vasodilation can lead to low organ perfusion pressure, resulting in organ dysfunction. Organ perfusion pressure is calculated as the difference between mean arterial pressure and central venous pressure. We hypothesized that combining intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) counter-pulsation with vasodilator therapy might be a good clinical option for stabilizing these patients while awaiting a heart transplant. Methods: To understand the hemodynamics of vasodilator and IABP therapy in biventricular heart failure, we used a closed-loop multiscale model of the entire cardiovascular system, including a one-dimensional model of the arterial tree coupled with a lumped model of the heart and IABP counter-pulsation. In addition, a baroreceptor model was also used to capture the physiological changes secondary to ventricular dysfunction realistically. Results: Our mathematical model accurately captures the features of the aortic pressure waveform with IABP support (Figure 1) and the hemodynamic consequences of the onset of right ventricular dysfunction (Table 1). Biventricular dysfunction leads to lower cardiac output and organ perfusion pressure when compared with isolated left ventricular dysfunction. Vasodilation during biventricular dysfunction increases the cardiac output but reduces the organ perfusion pressure further. IABP counter-pulsation increases cardiac output along with higher mean arterial pressure and hence higher organ perfusion pressure. The best results are seen when vasodilators are used in conjunction with IABP, where a “sweet spot” of maximal increase in cardiac output with the best possible organ perfusion pressure is obtained, and this combined additive effect of IABP counter-pulsation and vasodilation is also reflected across the renal vasculature (Table 1). Conclusion: Vasodilation with high venous pressure can lead to low organ perfusion pressure and consequent organ dysfunction. Fine-tuning IABP counter-pulsation and vasodilator seems to confer a substantial hemodynamic benefit in this setting.Figure 1. Simulated aortic pressure waveform with IABP support

P56: The Impact of Ipsilateral Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator in Axillary Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Support as Bridge-to-Heart Transplantation

Background: The axillary artery (AX) access for intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) as a bridge to heart transplant (HT) allows mobility while awaiting a suitable donor. As end-stage heart failure patients often have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) on the left side, the left AX approach may be avoided due to the perception of difficult access and proximity of two devices. Purpose: We compare the outcomes of patients undergoing HT that were bridged with a left-sided AX IABP with or without ipsilateral ICDs. Methods: Patients who had undergone left AX IABP as a bridge to HT between January 2010 to February 2022 were retrospectively reviewed (N=31). All AX IABPs were surgically implanted via the left AX. ICD was present in a total of 17 (80.9%) on the left side (Group ICD) while 14 patients did not have ICD on the left side (Group No-ICD). The procedural time was defined as the time from skin incision to the beginning of anastomoses of a Dacron graft. Results: The median age of the recipients was 55.6±12.9 with 80.6% (N=25) males. The median duration of left AX IABP support was 14 (8,22) days. Technical success was 100%. The mean procedure time to expose the AX was comparable between the two groups (ICD, 12.5±6.2 min vs. No-ICD, 11.2±6.0 min, P=0.640), as was the incidence of bleeding/hematoma (ICD, 0% vs. No-ICD, 7.1%, P=0.202). There was no ischemic stroke in both group. The most common adverse event in the cohort was a malfunction in 4 patients (12.9%) and malposition requiring exchange in 2 patients (6.4%). There was AX hematoma in 1 patient requiring revision and 1 patient with a right-sided ICD who had peripheral vascular disease developed left-sided arm and lower limb ischemia. Neither group had no device-related infection, wound infection, or brachial plexus symptoms. Conclusion: The insertion of IABP via the left AX as a bridge to HT is feasible with a good safety profile. The left AX approach for patients with ipsilateral ICDs can also be performed safely without increasing procedure time and adverse events.

P474 A PIVOTAL ROLE OF THE MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM IN THE BRIDGING THE PATIENT TO HEART TRANSPLANTATION

Abstract The complexity of care of the patients affected by advanced heart failure (AHF) requires a dedicated team led by cardiologists and consists of nurses, physical therapists, patient care coordinator, nurse educator, dietician, anesthesiologists, and perfusionists. Multidisciplinary team “ has been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization, death, and health care costs in randomized controlled trials”1. AHF is characterized by the progressive worsening of the clinical conditions of the patient unresponsive to the optimal medical therapy. Therefore, the short–term mechanical circulatory supports as Intraaortic Balloon Pump (IABP) may represent a valid strategy for optimizing and bridging the patient affected by AHF to the heart transplant2. A 52 years old lady with the diagnosis of the AHF and associated cachexia and sarcopenia has admitted in emergency. Despite of the high dose of inotrope severe hypotension required a IABP support to provide an adequate organs perfusion. Left ventricular assist device therapy has been rule out: the patient originated from the other country lives alone so no caregiver may be designed and trained to provide a support during the period following the LVAD’s implantation. For over than 130 days the patient well tolerates a treatment with inotrope at low dosage under continuously IABP support without a complications. Dedicated nurse in collaboration with the physical therapist provide a self mobilization of the patient with ambulatory IABP that is favorable to strengthen the level of her autonomy during the pre–transplant period. The out of bed position was performed by patient every day maintaining an acceptable level of muscle trophism to make the cardiac transplant program attainable. The patient was ambulating during almost every day sessions of the physical therapy covering the distance about 260 meters. A comfort environment, a quality of sleeping and an unchanged sleep–wake cycle are factors that enhance the patient’s experience. After more than five months of hospitalization, the patient receives her new heart. Heart–failure associated cachexia and sarcopenia, one of the most critical issues in the patients with AHF were regressed as a result of intensive physical activity and regular mobility of the patient. Synergic effort and expertise of each member of the multidisciplinary team has been a significant impact to successfully bridges critically ill lady to her complete recovery after the heart transplantation.

Ambulation of Patients With In Situ Femoral Intraaortic Balloon Pump While Awaiting Heart Transplantation.

Ambulation of Patients With In Situ Femoral Intraaortic Balloon Pump While Awaiting Heart Transplantation.

IABP versus Impella Support in Cardiogenic Shock: “In Silico” Study

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is part of a clinical syndrome consisting of acute left ventricular failure causing severe hypotension leading to inadequate organ and tissue perfusion. The most commonly used devices to support patients affected by CS are Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP), Impella 2.5 pump and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. The aim of this study is the comparison between Impella and IABP using CARDIOSIM© software simulator of the cardiovascular system. The results of the simulations included baseline conditions from a virtual patient in CS followed by IABP assistance in synchronised mode with different driving and vacuum pressures. Subsequently, the same baseline conditions were supported by the Impella 2.5 with different rotational speeds. The percentage variation with respect to baseline conditions was calculated for haemodynamic and energetic variables during IABP and Impella assistance. The Impella pump driven with a rotational speed of 50,000 rpm increased the total flow by 4.36% with a reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) by ≅15% to ≅30%. A reduction in left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) by ≅10% to ≅18% (≅12% to ≅33%) was observed with IABP (Impella) assistance. The simulation outcome suggests that assistance with the Impella device leads to higher reduction in LVESV, LVEDV, left ventricular external work and left atrial pressure-volume loop area compared to IABP support.

Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock: Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes

Patients with cardiogenic shock may require stabilization with temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) to assess candidacy for definitive therapy, including heart transplantation (HTx) or durable MCS, and/or maintain stability while on the HTx waiting list. We describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with cardiogenic shock who underwent intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) vs. Impella [Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA] placement at a high-volume advanced heart failure center. We assessed patients ≥ 18 years who received IABP or Impella support for cardiogenic shock from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2021. Ninety patients were included, 59 (65.6%) with IABP and 31 (34.4%) with Impella. Impella was used more frequently in less stable patients, as evidenced by higher inotrope scores, greater ventilator support, and worse renal function. While patients on Impella support had higher in-hospital mortality, despite the worse cardiogenic shock in patients for whom clinicians chose Impella support, over 75% were successfully stabilized to recovery or transplantation. Clinicians elect Impella support over IABP for less stable patients, though a high proportion are successfully stabilized. These findings demonstrate the heterogeneity of the cardiogenic shock patient population and may inform future trials to assess the role of different tMCS devices.