Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography Research Articles

Abstract P3013: Rare Case Of Catheter-related Right Atrial Thrombosis In A Pediatric Multi-visceral Transplant Patient

Introduction: There has been a recent increase in the use of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in liver transplant surgeries to identify intracardiac thrombi and pulmonary embolism (PE). These are rare but serious complications of transplant surgery that carry a high mortality risk. However, there is a lack of literature supporting the use of TEE during liver transplants, especially in pediatric cases. Case Presentation: We present a rare case of intraoperative catheter-related right atrial thrombus (CRAT) in a nine-year-old multi-visceral transplant (MVT) patient. This patient’s medical history was notable for preterm birth and gastroschisis complicated by neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis resulting in short-gut syndrome. He had a significant surgical history, including intestinal resection, Hartmann Procedure, and cholecystectomy, after which he developed non-cholestatic liver disease. He was admitted for MVT for intestinal failure associated with ESLD. The procedure was complicated by massive hemorrhage during the dissection phase, significant coagulopathy after engrafting the donor liver, profound hemodynamic instability requiring inotropic drug support, and multiple instances of intraoperative CPR. Intraoperative TEE identified right atrial thrombi around the central venous line. The patient developed RV dysfunction and PEA secondary to PE on two occasions and received a total of 4 mg tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). In both cases, ROSC was achieved after thrombolysis. Due to profound coagulopathy and massive blood loss (70 liters), the completion of the surgery was postponed, and the patient left the operating room with an open abdomen. The patient’s postoperative course was complicated by hemodiafiltration, ureteral resection with reimplantation to bladder, pyloroplasty, appendectomy, small bowel resection, end colostomy and double-barrel ileostomy. The patient eventually developed a subarachnoid hemorrhage on POD3 and expired. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of utilizing intraoperative TEE in pediatric liver transplant surgeries to diagnose intracardiac thrombi and PE.

Abstract P3012: Routine Monitoring For Intracardiac Thrombosis And Pulmonary Embolism With Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography In Orthotopic Liver Transplantation

Background: Intracardiac thrombosis (ICT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are significant intraoperative complications during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Despite the high mortality associated with these events, current monitoring practices are inadequate at detecting these complications during OLT. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) allows continuous monitoring of myocardial function and detection of ICT/PE. In this study, we aim to report the incidence of ICT/PE during OLT at our center and to advocate for the use of intraoperative TEE as a standard monitoring tool. We also propose a medical management algorithm stratified by the severity of RV dysfunction and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) in cases of ICT with/without PE. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective chart review of OLT patients with intraoperative TEE monitoring from March 13, 2019 - March 13, 2023. Intraoperative data of interest included hemodynamics, RV dysfunction, PAP, presence of ICT and/or PE as identified on TEE and associated medical management. RV dysfunction was graded as mild, moderate, or severe reduction in cardiac contractility. Secondary outcome was mortality during index hospitalization. Results: We identified 99 patients at our center who had intraoperative TEE monitoring during OLT. Prevalence of ICT in this population was 9.09% (n=9), of which 44.4% (n=4) developed hemodynamically significant PE. ICT patients who remained hemodynamically stable were observed without intervention (33%, n=3). Heparin was administered to prevent thrombus enlargement in patients with an increase in PAP but no significant RV dysfunction detected on TEE (22%, n=2). Those showing signs of hemodynamically significant PE with moderate or severe RV failure were given tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) for thrombolysis (44%, n=4). Perioperative mortality among all ICT patients was 44.4% (n=4) due to hemorrhagic shock secondary to coagulopathy and heart failure. Conclusion: The results of this study show the utility of routine TEE use in intraoperative monitoring for identifying ICT and PE in OLT patients, given the high mortality associated with these complications. TEE also allows for a stepwise approach to medical management based on RV function and PAP.

3D imaging of left atrial dissection: a case report

BackgroundLeft atrial dissection (LAD) is an uncommon but potentially devastating complication of cardiac surgery. Though surgical and conservative treatment strategies have been reported, the choice depends on each clinical situation. Especially in sensitive cases, the decision could be difficult, where the detailed assessment of the multiple imaging modalities is mandatory.Case presentationOpen surgical total arch replacement (TAR) was performed on a male patient aged 79 years old, who had severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a history of aortofemoral bypass for abdominal aortic aneurysm and arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO). During the weaning off the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), LAD was detected on intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). It was 18 × 26 mm and full of hematoma with the TEE. Due to the patient’s frailty and not to elongate the CPB duration, we selected a conservative strategy. The patient was extubated on postoperative day (POD) 1 and transferred from ICU to the ward on POD 3. On POD 7, ECG-gated 3D-CT was performed, on which LAD occupied 26% of the left atrial volume. It also revealed the opening of the pulmonary veins and the proximity of the LAD and the coronary sinus (CS). The cause of the LAD was considered to be the CS perforation with a retrograde cardioplegic cannula. A follow-up 3D-TEE was performed on POD 15, where the hematoma inside the LAD was absorbed. He was discharged home at POD 23. With transthoracic echocardiography, LAD itself disappeared after 3 months.Conclusion3D imaging, such as 3D-TEE and 3D-CT, is valuable in the assessment of the volume and quality of LAD. Furthermore, it clarifies the exact position and configuration of LAD, which help in assessing the etiology, predicting the hemodynamic disturbance, and determining the treatment strategy. They are potent tools, especially in complex cases.

International Survey on Perioperative Management of Patients With Infective Endocarditis

To estimate the current practice in the perioperative management of patients undergoing cardiac surgery due to infective endocarditis. A prospective, open, 24-item, web-based cross-sectional survey. Online survey endorsed by the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology and Intensive Care (EACTAIC). Members of the EACTAIC. None. A total of 156 responses from 44 countries were received, with a completion rate of 99%. The response rate was 16.6%. Most respondents (76%) practiced cardiac anesthesia in European hospitals, and most respondents stated that a multidisciplinary endocarditis team was not established at their center, that cardiac anesthesiologists appeared to be involved infrequently in those teams (36%), and that they were not involved in decision-making on indication and timing of surgery (88%). In contrast, the cardiac anesthesiologist performed intraoperative antibiotic therapy (62%) and intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (90%). Furthermore, there was a relative heterogeneity concerning perioperative monitoring, as well as for coagulation and transfusion management. This international survey evaluated current practice among cardiac anesthesiologists in the perioperative management of patients with infective endocarditis and the anesthesiologist's role in multidisciplinary decision-making. Heterogeneity in treatment approaches was identified, indicating relevant knowledge gaps that should encourage further clinical research to optimize treatment and postoperative outcomes in this specific population.

Preoperative and intraoperative 2D transesophageal echocardiography for endovascular closure of atrial septal defect

It is important for a doctor of ultrasound specialty to understand the methodology and the course of endovascular closure of the atrial septal defect for proper ultrasound support. If the occluder is placed correctly, the heart defect is completely eliminated. The surgeon performs implantation as accurately as possible under the control of radiography and transesophageal echocardiography.

Long-term experience of the modified David V re-implantation technique for valve-sparing aortic root replacement.

The modified David V technique is one of the valve-sparing aortic root replacement (V-SARR) techniques, which is an alternative to traditional composite valve graft root replacement techniques. We aimed to analyse our long-term experience with the modified David V re-implantation technique for the treatment of aortic root aneurysm and significant aortic valve insufficiency. From March 2009 to November 2021 the modified David V re-implantation technique, one of the V-SARR techniques, was performed on 48 patients in our centre. The results were analysed retrospectively. Two different-sized grafts were used in all patients. The grafts used in the proximal position were larger than the distal grafts. We performed both intra-operative and post-procedural transoesophageal echocardiography on each patient. All patients were followed by means of transthoracic echocardiography. The mean follow-up period was 5.7 ± 3.1 years. The mean age of this cohort was 56.3 ± 14.3 years (24-79) and the majority were men (75%). The mean aortic root diameter was 5.1 ± 0.6 cm. The mean diameter for the assending aorta was 5.4 ± 2.1 cm. The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.2% (n = 2). One patient needed aortic valve replacement in the early postoperative period. Two (4.2%) patients died in the early postoperative period and four (8.3%) died in the late postoperative period. Overall survival was 91 ± 4 and 86 ± 5% at one and five years, respectively. Aortic valve insufficiency was at moderate levels postoperatively. Freedom from moderate to severe residual aortic insufficiency was 89.6% at 10 years. None of the patients needed late re-operation of the aortic valve postoperatively. Freedom from valve re-operation was 100% at the end of the follow up. Our study shows that the David V technique is associated with excellent long-term durability, a remarkably low rate of valve-related complications, and it protects the re-implanted native aortic valve from a second operation. Additionally this technique could be safely implemented in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve and acute type A aortic dissection without leaflet deformity.

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for left atrial appendage closure planning.

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) are currently utilized for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) planning. During the recent global iodine contrast media shortage in 2022, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) was utilized for the first time for LAAC planning. This study sought to assess the utility of CMR versus TEE for LAAC planning. This single center retrospective study consisted of all patients who underwent preoperative CMR for LAAC with Watchman FLX or Amplatzer Amulet. Key measures were accuracy of LAA thrombus exclusion, ostial diameter, depth, lobe count, morphology, accuracy of predicted device size, and devices deployed per case. Bland-Altman Analysis was used to compare CMR versus TEE measurements of LAA ostial diameter and depth. 25 patients underwent preoperative CMR for LAAC planning. A total of 24 (96%) cases were successfully completed with 1.2±0.5 devices deployed per case. Among the 18 patients who underwent intraoperative TEE, there was no significant difference between CMR versus TEE in LAA thrombus exclusion (CMR 83%vs. TEE 100% cases, p=.229), lobe count (CMR 1.7±0.8vs. TEE 1.4±0.6, p=.177), morphology (p=.422), and accuracy of predicted device size (CMR 67%vs. TEE 72% cases, p=1.000). When comparing the difference between CMR and TEE measurements, Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated no significant difference in LAA ostial diameter (CMR-TEE bias 0.7mm, 95% CI [-1.1, 2.4], p=.420), but LAA depth was significantly larger with CMR versus TEE (CMR-TEE bias 7.4mm, 95% CI [1.6, 13.2], p=.015). CMR is a promising alternative for LAAC planning in cases where TEE or CCTA are contraindicated or unavailable.

P29 LVOTO IN HCM: HYBRID TREATMENT MAY STILL NOT SOLVE CHALLENGING CASES

Abstract MA, a 28 years old male with a diagnosis of OHCM since 2008, came to our attention for effort dyspnea (NYHA II) and fatigue limiting his greengrocer activity. Decompensated T1DM (HbA1C 12%), HTN, obesity (BMI 37). In 2017 he implanted a bicameral ICD in primary prevention, later extracted for sepsis and replaced with S–ICD. In the last 2 years he had 3–4 episodes of FAP, the latter causing an AHF requiring hospitalization in ICU. CV therapy: metoprolol 100 mg bid; disopyramide 100 mg x 3; rivaroxaban 20 mg die, insulin. Resting ECG: sinus bradycardia, HR 50 bpm, LVH with secondary repolarization abnormalities, long QTc (>500 ms). At basal and stress echocardiography (Fig. 1) he had a maximum wall thickness at medium IVS of 21 mm and severe dynamic obstruction due to complete SAM (Gmax 50 –> 135 mmHg); moderate mitral regurgitation, secondary to SAM, with eccentric jet; worsening of obstruction and MR at peak of stress (Gmax 145 mmHg; MR 3+); absence of pulmonary hypertension; severe left atrial dilatation (53ml/mq). He was considered not eligible for Morrow myectomy due to unfavorable anatomy (basal IVS of 11–14 mm, maximum thickness at medium IVS). Mitral valve area was > 4cmq. After Heart Team evaluation the patient was proposed for a reparative approach of mitral valve, and TEER was preferred to open surgery for favorable anatomy and to avoid an increased peri–operative risk in a patient with different comorbidities. The procedure was successfully conducted with the implantation of 1 MitraClip (MITRACLIP® Evalve – Abbott) in central position, with echocardiographic evidence (Fig. 2) of complete SAM resolution, reduction of MR to 1+ and gradient abolition (13 mmHg post–Valsalva maneuver). MVA at intraoperative TEE: >2 cmq. At six–months follow–up the patient reported a satisfactory reduction of symptoms without limitations in non–agonist physical activity and work, yet he still was not asymptomatic. Although on best medical treatment and after TEER, transthoracic echocardiographic control showed a recurrence of SAM and LVOTO (40 mmHg at basal, 70 mm Hg post – Valsalva maneuver). He is still candidate to myosin inhibition treatment. This case highlights the multiple challenges of LVOTO in HCM patients. Although a hybrid approach may be a promising treatment of OHCM, especially in youngers, an increase of expertise in this field and further research is needed, focusing on predictors of procedural failure and success.

Bone cement migrated to the right heart resulting in perforation of the ventricular wall with cardiac tamponade.

An 85-year-old man came to our emergency department because of acute shock due to cardiac tamponade. Four days ago, he underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty of the T12-L4 spine because of a compression fracture of the vertebral body, and post-operative X-ray suggested a leakage of bone cement from the L1 vertebra (Panel A). Computed tomography revealed a linear-shaped hyperattenuated lesion extending from the right heart into the pericardial cavity accompanied by massive pericardial effusion (Panel B). The patient underwent emergency surgery after pericardial puncture. Intra-operative transoesophageal echocardiography revealed a strong echo in the right ventricle (Panel C; Supplementary data online, Movie S1). The pericardial cavity was opened and plenty of clots were found, the foreign body was found on the surface of the right ventricle with sharp exposed end and was pulled out, and the right ventricular wall was repaired (Panel D; Supplementary data online, Movie S2). The foreign body was hard, formed a needle-shaped, measured ∼6×0.3 cm, and was diagnosed as bone cement (Panel E). Post-operative transoesophageal echocardiography revealed no obvious residuum in the heart or vena cava. The patient was in good condition initially after the surgery, but later died of respiratory failure caused by a severe pulmonary infection.

A Patient with Right-to-Left Shunt Atrial Septal Defect Without Pulmonary Hypertension

We present a case of atrial septal defect (ASD) in a 27-year-old young woman who presented with a right-to-left shunt despite normal pulmonary artery pressure without anomalous pulmonary venous drainage and only mild tricuspid regurgitation (TR), but it was associated with right ventricular dysfunction. Considering the dysfunction of the right heart and significant dilatation of the tricuspid annulus, the surgeon still decided to repair ASD and perform tricuspid valvuloplasty. The surgery lasted approximately three hours, and the whole procedure was smooth and uneventful. Her postoperative recovery was uneventful and discharged in good condition. The occurrence of right-to-left (R-L) shunting in patients with ASD is uncommon and is usually an ominous sign, heralding irreversible pulmonary hypertension (PH). There is little information about similar shunts for patients without PH and tricuspid regurgitation (TR), and the majority of these patients have an anatomic anomaly that favors this type of shunt. ASD with R-L shunt without Eisenmenger physiology is rarely reported and may be underestimated due to difficulty in its diagnosis. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) examination should not only focus on cardiac structure but also the evaluation of ventricular function. Right-to-left shunt is possible in ASD patients even with normal pulmonary arterial pressure.

PO-03-140 CARDIAC MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING VERSUS CARDIAC COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY FOR LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE SIZING AND THROMBUS ASSESSMENT PRIOR TO DEVICE CLOSURE

Preoperative imaging for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is essential for LAA sizing and thrombus assessment. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) have been utilized to date for this purpose. During the recent global iodine contrast shortage, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) was utilized as an alternative imaging modality. The purpose of this study was to assess CMR vs CCTA for preoperative LAA sizing and thrombus assessment prior to LAAC. This retrospective study conducted at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center included all patients who underwent preoperative CMR or CCTA for LAAC with Watchman FLX or Amplatzer Amulet between May 2022 and October 2022. Primary measures were accuracy of predicted device size, accuracy of thrombus detection/exclusion, and mean difference in maximum LAA ostial diameter and depth as compared to intraoperative TEE. An area-derived diameter approach was utilized with CMR and CCTA to obtain the maximum diameter in order to prevent oversizing highly elliptical ostial shapes. The radius (r) was calculated based on device design. For the octadecagonal Watchman FLX, area = r2 x 3.0782. For the circular Amulet, area = r2 x 3.1416. 75 patients underwent LAAC, and 25 (33%) vs 50 (67%) underwent preoperative CMR vs CCTA respectively. Demographics were notable for age 75 ± 7 years, 32 (43%) females, 31 ± 7 kg/m2 body mass index, 53 ± 9% left ventricular ejection fraction, and 4 ± 1 CHA2DS2-VASc. 64 (88%) and 9 (12%) patients underwent Watchman FLX and Amplatzer Amulet implantation respectively. There was no significant difference with CMR vs CCTA in accuracy of predicted device size (CMR: 16 (64%) vs CCTA: 26 (70%) patients, p=0.604) and accuracy of thrombus assessment (CMR: 22 (88%) vs CCTA: 46 (92%) patients, p=0.680). Among the 57 (76%) cases completed with intraoperative TEE guidance where LAA measurements were obtained, there was no significant difference with CMR vs CCTA in the mean difference in maximum LAA ostial diameter (CMR: 2.9 ± 2.0 vs CCTA: 2.6 ± 2.5 mm, p=0.699) and mean difference in maximum LAA depth (CMR: 9.5 ± 8.5 vs CCTA: 10.8 ± 7.5 mm, p=0.620) as compared to intraoperative TEE. Figure 1 demonstrates LAAC device sizing using multiplanar reconstruction with oblique views of the LAA on CCTA (A-C) and CMR (D-F). CMR and CCTA were comparable for LAA sizing and thrombus assessment prior to LAAC.

CE-454611-3 HIGH RISK LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE CLOSURE IN PATIENTS WITH A PERSISTENT LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE THROMBUS

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with a persistent left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus is controversial. To introduce a novel utilization of a cerebral protection device during high risk LAAC in patients with a persistent LAA thrombus. N/A Case 1: A 50-year-old male with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) and remote left ventricular thrombus with a thromboembolic stroke presented for an AF ablation. He was found to have a persistent LAA thrombus on multiple pre-operative CT scans despite changing anticoagulation regimen with rivaroxaban and subsequently warfarin with aspirin. The ablation was aborted. He underwent LAAC (Watchman FLXTM, Boston Scientific) with the cerebral protection device (SentinelTM, Boston Scientific) in place. The transesophageal echocardiogram during the procedure confirmed persistent LAA thrombus (Figure A). At the end of the procedure, embolic debris were identified within the SentinelTM (Figure B). The patient was discharged with no neurologic symptoms at the time of discharge and remains neurologically intact 10 months post procedure. Case 2: A 68-year-old female with persistent AF on a therapeutic warfarin dose presented for an AF ablation. She was noted to have a LAA thrombus on the pre-operative CT scan and the procedure was aborted. Her anticoagulation was switched to apixaban. A repeat CT revealed no change in LAA thrombus, and more aggressive anticoagulation was limited by hematuria. Therefore, she underwent LAAC with the SentinelTM for cerebral protection. Of note, the intraoperative TEE revealed filamentous LAA thrombus (Figure C). The patient tolerated the procedure well and was safely discharged the following day. She had no post-operative changes in her neurologic status and the Watchman FLXTM on routine TEE remained in stable position (Figure D). The presence of LAA thrombus is a common concern in patients referred for LAAC. While classically avoided, this case series suggests that a thrombus being present is not a contraindication for LAAC. A cerebral protection device may be used to prevent cardioembolic stroke in selected patients with a persistent LAA thrombus. Further studies are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this strategy.

PO-03-139 HIGH-RESOLUTION CARDIAC MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FOR LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE SIZING AND THROMBUS EXCLUSION PRIOR TO DEVICE CLOSURE

Transesophageal echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography angiography are currently utilized for left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) planning. The advent of high-resolution cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (HR-CMR) now potentially allows for adequate spatial resolution for LAAC planning. This study sought to assess preoperative HR-CMR with software-based sizing vs intraoperative TEE for LAA sizing and thrombus exclusion prior to LAAC. This retrospective study conducted at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center included all patients who underwent preoperative HR-CMR and intraoperative TEE for LAAC with Watchman FLX (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA) from May to September 2022. For HR-CMR, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) sequences were obtained for LAA sizing and thrombus exclusion respectively. A proprietary sizing software (TruPlan, Boston Scientific) was utilized to analyze the MRA sequence to characterize LAA anatomy, predict closure device size, and estimate device compression ratio. HR-CMR was compared to TEE for assessing accuracy of LAA thrombus exclusion, maximum ostial diameter, depth, lobe count, morphology, and accuracy of predicted device size. 16 patients were included, with baseline characteristics notable for 8 (50%) females, age 73 ± 6 years, 30 ± 7 kg/m2 body mass index, 54 ± 8% left ventricular ejection fraction, and 4 ± 2 CHA2DS2-VASc. 15 (94%) cases were successfully completed. There was no significant difference in LAA thrombus exclusion (CMR 14 (88%) vs TEE 16 (100%) cases, p=0.48), maximum ostial diameter (CMR 20.9 ± 4.2 vs TEE 20.6 ± 4.2 mm, p=0.99), depth (CMR 31.1 ± 7.8 vs TEE 26.8 ± 5.6 mm, p=0.09), lobe count (CMR 1.8 ± 0.8 vs TEE 1.4 ± 0.6 lobes, p=0.25), and morphology features (p=0.44). LAA assessments are summarized in Table I. The mean devices deployed per case was 1.1 ± 0.3. In 2 (13%) cases a device downsize was required. 1 case was aborted due to inability to access a very small LAA ostium. On 45-day TEE or CCTA, no peri-device leak ≥5 mm or device-related thrombus were noted. A comparison of standard vs high-resolution contrast-enhanced (CE)-MRA of the LAA is demonstrated in Figure 1. HR-CMR is a viable modality for preoperative LAA sizing and thrombus exclusion with promising results. HR-CMR may provide utility in cases where TEE or CCTA are contraindicated or unavailable.Tabled 1Table IMeasureHR-CMR (N=16)TEE (N=16)P-valueLAA thrombus accurately excluded14 (88%)16 (100%)0.484Minimum LAA ostial diameter (mm)18.0 ± 4.216.6 ± 3.40.335Target LAA ostial diameter (mm)*20.9 ± 4.220.6 ± 4.20.987LAA depth (mm)31.1 ± 7.826.8 ± 5.60.093Number of lobes1.8 ± 0.81.4 ± 0.60.250Morphology0.437Cactus4 (25%)3 (19%)Cauliflower0 (0%)2 (13%)Chicken wing5 (31%)2 (13%)Windsock7 (44%)8 (50%)Other0 (0%)1 (6%)LAA closure device size accurately predicted12 (75%)12 (75%)1.000Values presented as mean ± 1 standard deviation for continuous variables and n (%) for categorical variables. Abbreviations: HR-CMR = high resolution cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, LAA = left atrial appendage, TEE = transesophageal echocardiography. *Based on maximum diameter measured on TEE vs area-derived diameter on HR-CMR. Open table in a new tab

Expanding Heart Donor Pool With a Broken Heart: Cardiac Transplant From Donor Following Circulatory Death With Takotsubo Syndrome.

Owing to the growth of patients with advanced heart failure and limited potential for donation after brain death, expanding donor source with hearts from controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) and meeting extended criteria are essential strategies. We present the first case of a patient who successfully underwent cardiac transplant (CT) from cDCD with Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). The donor was a 49-y-old man without risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) and terminal amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with respiratory failure and mechanical ventilation support. A decision was made with patient’s family to withdraw life-sustaining therapies (WLSTs). Organ donation option was presented and consented, and cDCD Maastricht Classification III1 was considered suitable. He presented normal blood tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram. The cDCD process was performed using an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit to perform thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion.2 During intraoperative evaluation, transesophageal echocardiography revealed normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). However, after WLST, moderate dysfunction (LVEF 37%) and apical ballooning suggestive of TTS were observed (Figure 1A), continuing present after thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion withdrawal and organ extraction. Epicardial coronary arteries palpation did not reveal pathology.FIGURE 1.: A, Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography evaluation that shows the left ventricle in diastole and systole with apical akinesia and preserved contractility of basal segments. B, The 12-lead electrocardiogram reveals T wave inversion and prolonged QT interval. C, A graph of heart recovery timeline based on the high-sensitivity troponin T levels, left ventricular ejection fraction, and inotrope support, correlated with the d after cardiac transplant. D, Normal right and left coronary arteries in the post cardiac transplant protocol–based coronary angiography. LVEF, left ventricular ejection fraction.The heart recipient was a 52-y-old man with severe, irreversible ischemic cardiomyopathy and 10 d with a ventricular assist device, listed for CT after excluding severe comorbidities and a multidisciplinary team discussion. An orthotopic transplant was performed using the bicaval technique, with spontaneous heartbeat and cold ischemia time of 86 min. He required minimal vasoactive support, withdrawn 48 h after CT. The electrocardiogram showed diffuse negative T waves and prolonged QTc interval (Figure 1B), and peak level of high-sensitivity troponin T was 2115 ng/L. Six days after CT, LVEF normalized. The timeline of heart recovery is represented in Figure 1C. The coronary angiography ruled out donor CAD (Figure 1D). The patient was discharged 30 d after CT and is doing well 43 wk after. Serial echocardiograms reveal normal wall motion and function. DISCUSSION Although TTS and CT have been indirectly associated, few cases have been published on donor hearts with TTS, these with no compromised survival3; none in cDCD. Similar pathophysiological aspects, present in TTS and cDCD, could be responsible for the phenomenon that occurred during CT. In the cDCD, the heart experiences a warm ischemia period during the WLST, cardiac arrest, and CT. This implies ischemia–reperfusion injury: activation of inflammatory and coagulation cascades and release of catecholamines.4 The mechanisms behind TTS, clinical condition characterized by acute transient left ventricular dysfunction, remain unknown. The most widely accepted theory is catecholamine-induced cardiotoxicity, and growing evidence is arising for myocardial inflammation, endothelial and microcirculation dysfunction, and neurohormonal alterations.5 Because of donor’s age, low-risk profile of CAD, and echocardiographic abnormalities, TTS was suspected. The post-CT protocol–based coronary angiography ruled out obstructive CAD or atherosclerotic plaque rupture. There was a rapid normalization of LVEF, negative T waves in the electrocardiogram, and elevated cardiac enzymes. This fulfilled the most widely used TTS diagnostic criteria.5 A pre-CT coronary angiography in patients >40 y or at risk of CAD could avoid ruling out hearts with left ventricular dysfunction. CONCLUSION The pathophysiological knowledge of cDCD and TTS could increase CT rates. This first experience in cDCD should be cautiously interpreted and analyzed individually in future cases.

Short and mid-term effects of modified release technique in rheumatic mitral valve repair

ObjectiveRepair or replacement remains debatable in rheumatic heart disease. To regain optimal mean transvalvular pressure gradients and end-diastolic peak flow velocity, the modified release technique combined peeling in the anterior leaflet and separated the shortened chordal. In the end, the short and mid-term outcomes of the modified release technique were evaluated.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed a series of 128 patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis, from January 2018 to July 2021 in our center. All patients undergoing mitral valve repair were using the modified release technique. The effect of mitral valve repair was evaluated by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography and postoperative transthoracic echocardiography.ResultsAll the 128 patients successfully repaired the mitral valve. The intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography showed trivial or mild regurgitation. The aortic valve was repaired without obvious regurgitation in 12 cases, 5 cases received an aortic valve replacement, 89 cases underwent tricuspid annuloplasty. There were no blood transfusions in most patients, no deaths nor complications during peri-operation, also, no deaths and adverse events were observed during the follow-up period from 3 to 42 months. During the follow-up, 122 cases had no mitral valve regurgitation and 2 cases of moderate regurgitation, 4 cases of mild to moderate regurgitation. The mean peak flow velocity was 1.2 ± 0.3 m / s, no new-onset stenosis occurred.ConclusionModified release technique is safe and feasible. Its durability is acceptable in the short and mid-term, with no new-onset stenosis during the follow-up.

Papillary fibroelastoma of the aortic valve: occlusion of the left main coronary artery.

A 53-year-old woman with palpitations and respiratory distress as her main symptoms, which had resulted in a cardiac arrest, was referred to the emergency room. Coronary angiography (CAG) with percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS) was performed, but no severe stenosis was found. The patient was diagnosed with vasospastic angina, treated medically, and discharged to her home. Six months later, however, during hospitalization for sick sinus syndrome, she suddenly developed runs of ventricular tachycardia. Therefore, CAG with PCPS was again carried out and revealed an occlusion of the left main trunk (LMT) of the coronary artery (Panel A, arrow). Intravascular ultrasound imaging was also performed (Panel B), and a plausible thrombus formation associated with coronary spasm was diagnosed. An emergency surgical intervention was therefore carried out. Intraoperative transoesophageal echocardiography imaging showed both a large mass at the aortic valve that may have occluded the LMT (Panel C, Supplementary data online, Video S1), and a previously undiagnosed severe aortic valve regurgitation caused by the mass. Aortic cross-clamping and a cardiac arrest were conducted; a huge mass originating from the right coronary cusp (RCC) of the valve was found (Panels D and E, arrowheads) and resected. No thrombus formation in the coronary artery was observed. Post-operatively, the patient's angina resolved without any sign of aortic regurgitation. The pathology report revealed a papillary fibroelastoma (PFE). This series of symptoms was caused by embolization within the coronary artery and the presence of a huge PFE, which together caused this rare condition.

Left atrial appendage exclusion using a stapler with thoracoscopic ablation of atrial fibrillation

Highlights. Stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation is extremely important and difficult. Lifelong anticoagulant therapy is not always an effective way of preventing thrombosis in the left atrial appendage in this group of patients. In this regard, one of the most urgent problems of modern surgical arrhythmology and cardiac surgery is the search for new open and minimally invasive surgical methods of excluding the left atrial appendage from the blood flow.Aim. To investigate the safety and efficacy of using the left atrial appendage stapler for video-guided thoracoscopic ablation (TSA) of non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF).Methods. The retrospective, single-center study included 100 patients with non-valvular AF who underwent video-guided thoracoscopic ablation of AF with single-stage left atrial appendage exclusion using an Endo GIA stapler (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA).Results. The mean age of the patients was 56,2±8,8 years, the majority of the patients (73 patients, 73%) were male. Patients with persistent 50 (50%) AF and longstanding AF 50 (50%) were included in the study. The duration of atrial fibrillation was 4 (1,7–7) years. The median CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores were 2 (1–1,5) and 1 (0-1), respectively. The mean anticoagulation therapy-to-ablation time was 4,2±1,9 years. Thirty-eight (38%) patients were prescribed warfarin preoperatively. The completeness of left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion was confirmed by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography. The average length of the staple lines was 48 (35–75). A single left atrial appendage exclusion was performed using a 60 mm staples. In 12 (12%) patients, stapler exclusions were performed using two 45 mm staples due to insufficient staple length. None of the patients had ruptures, punctures along the staple lines or rupture of the surrounding epicardial tissue. Anticoagulant therapy was discontinued 6 months after TSA in 70 (70%) patients with sustained sinus rhythm observed on 24-h Holter Monitoring, satisfactory CHA2DS2-VASc scores and after confirmation of absence of left atrial thrombus by transesophageal echocardiography and contrast-enhanced MSCT. No strokes were reported within 1,2±0,7 years after discontinuing anticoagulation therapy.Conclusion. Exclusion of LAA using a stapler for TSA is a highly effective and safe technique for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation compared to alternative methods of excluding the LAA from the systemic blood flow.

Simultaneous Live Donor Liver Transplantation, Aortic Valve Replacement, and Atrial Septal Defect Repair in a Patient With End Stage Liver Disease: A Case Report

Valvular heart disease creates an important barrier for orthotopic liver transplantation in patients with end-stage liver disease and increases mortality. Selection of the appropriate surgical scheme and adequate postoperative management can be lifesaving in these cases. This study presents a 32-year-old man diagnosed with hepatitis C-associated cirrhosis and severe aortic regurgitation due to subacute bacterial endocarditis. Initially, simultaneous aortic valve replacement (AVR) and live donor liver transplantation (LDLT) was planned. However, intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed an additional atrial septal defect (ASD) and AVR, ASD repair, and LDLT surgery were performed. During the 2-year follow-up period, there were no early or late complications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first patient to have simultaneous AVR, ASD repair, and LDLT surgery. Additionally, the present case is also unique in being the first person in the Republic of Azerbaijan to undergo concomitant cardiac surgery and LDLT.

Intraoperative air embolism diagnosis and treatment using hyperbaric oxygen therapy after craniotomy: illustrative case.

This report describes the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the acute management of an intraoperative air embolism encountered during a neurosurgical procedure. Furthermore, the authors highlight the concomitant diagnosis of tension pneumocephalus requiring evacuation prior to hyperbaric therapy. A 68-year-old male developed acute ST-segment elevation and hypotension during elective disconnection of a posterior fossa dural arteriovenous fistula. The semi-sitting position had been used to minimize cerebellar retraction, raising the concern for acute air embolism. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography was utilized to establish the diagnosis of air embolism. The patient was stabilized on vasopressor therapy, and immediate postoperative computed tomography revealed air bubbles in the left atrium along with tension pneumocephalus. He underwent urgent evacuation for the tension pneumocephalus followed by hyperbaric oxygen therapy to manage the hemodynamically significant air embolism. The patient was eventually extubated and went on to fully recover; a delayed angiogram revealed complete cure of the dural arteriovenous fistula. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be considered for an intracardiac air embolism resulting in hemodynamic instability. In the postoperative neurosurgical setting, care should be taken to exclude pneumocephalus requiring operative intervention prior to hyperbaric therapy. A multidisciplinary management approach facilitated expeditious diagnosis and management for the patient.

Acute hypoxemia due to right-to-left shunt via a patent foramen ovale during left internal thoracic artery to left anterior descending artery anastomosis in off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: a case report

BackgroundA right-to-left shunt via a patent foramen ovale (PFO) during off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) may result in difficulties in oxygenation and circulatory management. We herein present a case of a marked shunt via a PFO during OPCAB.Case presentationA 74-year-old man who had aortic root enlargement, compressing the right atrium, and an atrial septal aneurysm, underwent OPCAB. When the heart was fixed for the anastomosis of the left anterior descending artery, sudden hypoxemia and hypotension were observed. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) showed a right-to-left shunt via a PFO that was unnoticed preoperatively. After the anastomosis was completed, TEE revealed no shunt through the PFO.ConclusionsWe should check for a PFO in case of an atrial septal aneurysm. Compression of the right atrium is considered an important anatomical risk of the right-to-left shunt in OPCAB.