Maternal Cardiovascular Complications Research Articles

Outcome of pregnancy in women with unrepaired atrial septal defect - study of a single tertiary centre

Abstract Background Patients with unrepaired atrial septal defect (ASD) are prone to develop arrhythmia, right heart failure and to suffer paradoxical embolism. The risk might be even bigger during pregnancy due to the hemodynamic changes combined with the hypercoagulable state. Purpose To evaluate maternal, foetal, and neonatal outcome of pregnancy in women with unrepaired ASD. Methods A retrospective study of 43 pregnancies in 24 women with unrepaired ASD was performed in our tertiary centre from 2004. Previous maternal cardiovascular events and events during pregnancy (maternal, neonatal, and obstetric) were documented. Results 24 women with unrepaired ASD (median age: 27.5 ± 6.2) had 43 pregnancies resulting in one termination, 4 miscarriages and 38 live births. 55% were primigravida and 2 twin pregnancies were documented. At baseline 2 women (10.5%) were in NYHA functional class II and signs of right ventricle (RV) volume overload were detected on echocardiography in 18 cases (47%). 2 women had a history of supraventricular tachycardia. Median gestation at delivery was 39 ± 2.6 weeks. No thromboembolic events, pulmonary hypertension, or desaturation occurred during pregnancy. However maternal cardiovascular complications all affected women with RV volume overload: 2 cases (5.2%) of supraventricular tachycardia, 2 (5.2%) cases with NYHA functional class deterioration and 1 case (2.6%) of syncope were documented. Only one obstetric event; preeclampsia occured. Neonatal complications were as follows: premature delivery in 3 cases (7.9%) and recurrence of congenital heart disease (CHD) in 4 pregnancies (10.5%). After the pregnancy device or surgical closure of the ASD was indicated for 11 women (45.8%). Since then, five already underwent device closure, one had surgical repair, while five women are still waiting for intervention. Conclusions Our results align with the mWHO classification. Pregnancy with an unrepaired ASD is well tolerated and has a low risk of neonatal and maternal cardiovascular events. However, women with right ventricle volume overload are prone to develop arrhythmia or right heart failure during pregnancy. Therefore, cardiology follow-up during pregnancy should be decided on an individual basis. In our cohort no thromboembolic events were documented during pregnancy, however the prevalence of congenital heart disease in the foetus was higher compared to the literature.

The role of microRNAs in pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes.

With the global prevalence of diabetes increasing, more people of reproductive age are experiencing hyperglycaemic pregnancies. Maternal Type 1 (T1DM) or Type 2 (T2DM) diabetes mellitus, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are associated with maternal cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes also increase the risk of short- and long-term health complications for the offspring, including altered fetal growth and the onset of T2DM and cardiometabolic diseases throughout life. Despite advanced methods for improving maternal glucose control, the prevalence of adverse maternal and offspring outcomes associated with maternal diabetes remains high. The placenta is a key organ at the maternal-fetal interface that regulates fetal growth and development. In pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes, altered placental development and function has been linked to adverse outcomes in both mother and fetus. Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) are key molecules involved in mediating these changes. In this review, we describe the role of miRNAs in normal pregnancy and discuss how miRNA dysregulation in the placenta and maternal circulation is associated with suboptimal placental development and pregnancy outcomes in individuals with maternal diabetes. We also discuss evidence demonstrating that miRNA dysregulation may affect the long-term health of mothers and their offspring. As such, miRNAs are potential candidates as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in diabetic pregnancies at risk of adverse outcomes.

CARDIAC VALVE DISEASE IN DIABETIC PREGNANT WOMEN: FETAL COMPROMISE AND MATERNAL RISK

Introduction: Cardiac valve diseases represent a significant concern in the management of pregnant women, particularly those with diabetes mellitus, a condition that alters the hemodynamic profile and can exacerbate pre-existing cardiac issues. During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes physiological changes that can affect the function of the cardiac valves. Diabetes mellitus can accelerate the progression of valvulopathies, leading to complications affecting both the mother and the fetus. Fetal compromise often results from maternal hemodynamic instability and changes in blood flow, while maternal risk includes worsening cardiac symptoms and an increased likelihood of adverse events during pregnancy. Objective: The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the available evidence on the impact of cardiac valve diseases in diabetic pregnant women, focusing on the consequences for the fetus and the risks for the mother. Methodology: To conduct the systematic review, the PRISMA checklist criteria were followed. The search was performed in electronic databases, including PubMed, Scielo, and Web of Science, using five main descriptors: "cardiac valve disease," "diabetic pregnant women," "fetal compromise," "maternal risk," and "diabetes mellitus." Studies published in the last 10 years were included, prioritizing peer-reviewed articles and original research. Inclusion criteria comprised: (1) studies specifically addressing valvulopathies in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus, (2) articles providing data on fetal and maternal outcomes, and (3) research published in peer-reviewed journals. Exclusion criteria included: (1) studies not directly focusing on diabetic pregnant women, (2) research with non-rigorous methodologies or lack of relevant data, and (3) articles published more than 10 years ago. Results: The results indicated that pregnant women with valvulopathies and diabetes mellitus face a heightened risk of complications. Key findings included increased neonatal mortality and maternal cardiovascular complications, such as heart failure and worsening valvular symptoms. Fetal compromise often involved intrauterine growth problems and a higher incidence of prematurity. Conclusion: The review highlighted that the combination of diabetes mellitus and cardiac valve diseases presents a significant challenge in managing pregnant women, with important implications for both maternal and fetal health. Early identification and appropriate management of valvulopathies are crucial to reducing associated risks and improving outcomes for both mother and baby. Future studies should focus on treatment strategies and monitoring approaches that can mitigate these complications and promote better outcomes.

Cardiac remodelling during pregnancy in women with congenital heart disease and systemic left ventricle.

Women with congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk of pregnancy-related adverse outcomes (PRAO). The purpose of this study was to assess temporal changes in cardiac structure and function (cardiac remodelling) during pregnancy, and the association with PRAO in women with CHD. Retrospective study of pregnant women with CHD and serial echocardiograms (2003-2021). Cardiac structure and function were assessed at pre-specified time points: prepregnancy, early pregnancy, late pregnancy, and postnatal period. PRAO was defined as the composite of maternal cardiovascular, obstetric, and neonatal complications. The study comprised 81 women with CHD (age, 29 ± 5 years). Compared to the baseline echocardiogram, there was a relative increase in right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) (relative change 13 ± 5%, P < 0.001, in early pregnancy; and 18 ± 5%, P < 0.001, in late pregnancy). There was a relative decrease in right ventricle free wall strain (RVFWS) (relative change -11 ± 3%, P < 0.001, in late pregnancy; and -11 ± 4%, P = 0.003, in postnatal period), and a relative decrease in RVFWS/RVSP (relative change, -10 ± 5%, P = 0.02 in early pregnancy, -26 ± 7%, P < 0.001, in late pregnancy, and -14 ± 5%, P < 0.001, in postnatal period). Baseline right ventricular to pulmonary arterial (RV-PA) coupling, and temporal change in RV-PA coupling were associated with PRAO, after adjustment for maternal age and severity of cardiovascular disease. Women with CHD had a temporal decrease in RV systolic function and RV-PA coupling, and these changes were associated with PRAO. Further studies are required to delineate the aetiology of deterioration in RV-PA coupling during pregnancy, and the long-term implications of right heart dysfunction observed in the postnatal period.

Cardiovascular complications during pregnancy: Advancing cardio-obstetrics

As the incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continues to rise among women of childbearing age, the pregnant population with pre-existing heart conditions presents a complex and heterogeneous profile. These women face varying degrees of risk concerning maternal cardiovascular, obstetric, and fetal complications. Effectively managing adverse cardiovascular events during pregnancy presents substantial clinical challenges. The uncertainties surrounding diagnostic and therapeutic approaches create a dynamic landscape with potential implications for maternal and fetal health. Cardio-obstetrics has become increasingly recognized as a vital multidisciplinary field necessitating a collaborative approach to managing cardiovascular conditions during pregnancy. In this review, we aim to provide a thorough and up-to-date examination of the existing evidence, offering a comprehensive overview of strategies and considerations in the management of cardiovascular complications during pregnancy. Special emphasis is placed on the safety assessment of diagnostic procedures and the exploration of treatment options designed to prioritize the well-being of the mother and fetus. We also explore the significance of a multidisciplinary cardio-obstetrics team in providing comprehensive care for women of childbearing age with or at risk for CVD.

Pregnancy and cardiac maternal outcomes in women with inherited cardiomyopathy: interest of the CARPREG II risk score.

Inherited cardiomyopathies are relatively rare but carry a high risk of cardiac maternal morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and postpartum. However, data for risk stratification are scarce. The new CARPREG II score improves prediction of prognosis in pregnancies associated with heart disease, though its role in inherited cardiomyopathies is unclear. We aim to describe characteristics and cardiac maternal outcomes in patients with inherited cardiomyopathy during pregnancy, and to evaluate the interest of the CARPREG II risk score in this population. In this retrospective single-centre study, 90 consecutive pregnancies in 74 patients were included (mean age 32±5years), including 28 cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), 46 of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, 11 of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and 5 of left ventricular noncompaction, excluding peripartum cardiomyopathy. The discriminatory power of several risk scores was assessed by the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). Median CARPREG II score was 2 [0;3] and was higher in the DCM subgroup. A severe cardiac maternal complication was observed in 18 (20%) pregnancies, mainly driven by arrhythmia and heart failure (each event in 10 pregnancies), with 3 cardiovascular deaths. Forty-three pregnancies (48%) presented foetal/neonatal complications (18 premature delivery, 3 foetal/neonatal death). CARPREG II was significantly associated with cardiac maternal complications (P<0.05 for all) and showed a higher AUC (0.782) than CARPREG (0.755), mWHO (0.697) and ZAHARA (0.604). Pregnancy in women with inherited cardiomyopathy carries a high risk of maternal cardiovascular complications. CARPREG II is the most efficient predictor of cardiovascular complications in this population.

Effects on reduction of morbidity and mortality in ACHD population of childbearing age as a result of ESC Guidelines

Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of maternal death during pregnancy and peripartum period. ACHD is a rising cause for maternal cardiovascular complications. Several studies demonstrated the beneficial role of systematic maternal cardiovascular risk assessment culminating in the European Society of Cardiology guidelines in 2018 endorsing the use of the modified World Health Organization (mWHO) classification to stratify maternal risk and further guide surveillance and management of women with underlying cardiac conditions. Purpose In this study we aim to reduce maternal cardiovascular morbidity risks by actively implementing recommendations from the 2018 ESC guidelines for the management of cardiovascular diseases in women with ACHD in childbearing age in Grampian region, Scotland. Methods We identified women of childbearing age (n = 204) in the ACHD population of NHS Grampian (n = 594). We initially calculated baseline percentage of ACHD women who had pre-pregnancy counselling, documented mWHO risk assessment and, if applicable, contraception advice and pregnancy rate. This population has been prospectively followed up during the period from 2020 to 2022 and ESC guidelines were implemented. By the end of the follow up period we assessed the changes in the pregnancy rate in ACHD women. Results Overall, the population of ACHD women of childbearing age in Grampian region has significantly grown (expanded) during the study period (from n = 204 to n = 230) and the vast majority (90.5%) of these patients are diagnosed with mWHO class I (38.3%, ESC mild ACHD) or mWHO class II / class II-III (52.2%, ESC moderate ACHD). There has been an increase in the percentage of women reviewed in Transition Clinic compared to baseline (44.7% versus 27.8%, respectively), a clearer documentation of mWHO pregnancy risk (31.6% versus 7.3%) and an increase in contraceptives use, especially in moderate and severe ACHD patients compared to baseline (65.2% versus 57.1%, respectively). This resulted in an overall reduction of the numbers of pregnancy in ACHD women compared to baseline (7.9% versus 40.1%, respectively), especially in women with ESC moderate and severe ACHD (Table 1) with consequent reduction in hospital admissions and morbidity. Conclusions Implementing risk stratification tools (mWHO pregnancy risk stratification) and systematic pre-pregnancy counselling with contraceptive advice (all key recommendations from the ESC guidelines) reduce the rate of high-risk pregnancy in ACHD women. This translates to an improvement in survival rates and lower morbidity in ACHD women. Further follow up is required to ensure the consistency of this finding.

APACHE: A multicentric prospective comparative analysis of placentas in women with and without Congenital Heart Disease

Although perinatal complications during pregnancy in women with Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) are well known, the pathophysiological mechanisms are still to be elucidated. As the placenta is the interface between mother and fetus, its analysis might help to better understand their interactions and identify risk factors for complications. We hypothesize that abnormal findings would be more frequent in placentas of women with CHD than in those without cardiac disease. The main objective of this study is to compare the incidence of placental abnormalities (PA) in ACHD versus controls women. The present proposal is to conduct a prospective, multicentric, national, 2-years (2023–2024) cohort study (research involving human type III), in order to analyze Doppler imaging and histological placentas, and compare findings in a group of women with ACHD versus a group without. The secondary objectives of the study are to assess the association between PA and the occurrence of maternal cardiovascular, fetal and/or perinatal complications, and to assess risk factors for PA or maternal/fetal events ( Fig. 1 ). Placentas of ACHD would have significantly ( P < 0.05) more abnormalities and these would correlate with the occurrence of complications. Description of PA could help to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms and eventually propose preventive therapeutic strategies of fetal and/or neonatal complications. Risk factors could be stratified according to the type of heart disease (as the mWHO score) and could allow to propose a novel risk-score of pregnancy in women with CHD.

Extracellular Vesicles as an Index for Endothelial Injury and Cardiac Dysfunction in a Rodent Model of GDM.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and maternal cardiovascular complications. It is widely believed that maternal endothelial dysfunction is a critical determinant of these risks, however, connections to maternal cardiac dysfunction and mechanisms of pathogenesis are unclear. Circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging biomarkers that may provide insights into the pathogenesis of GDM. We examined the impact of GDM on maternal cardiac and vascular health in a rat model of diet-induced obesity-associated GDM. We observed a >3-fold increase in circulating levels of endothelial EVs (p < 0.01) and von Willebrand factor (p < 0.001) in GDM rats. A significant increase in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) within circulating extracellular vesicles was also observed suggesting possible mitochondrial dysfunction in the vasculature. This was supported by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide deficiency in aortas of GDM mice. GDM was also associated with cardiac remodeling (increased LV mass) and a marked impairment in maternal diastolic function (increased isovolumetric relaxation time [IVRT], p < 0.01). Finally, we observed a strong positive correlation between endothelial EV levels and IVRT (r = 0.57, p < 0.05). In summary, we observed maternal vascular and cardiac dysfunction in rodent GDM accompanied by increased circulating endothelial EVs and EV-associated mitochondrial DNA. Our study highlights a novel method for assessment of vascular injury in GDM and highlights vascular mitochondrial injury as a possible therapeutic target.

Management of acute cardiovascular complications in pregnancy.

The growing population of women with heart disease of reproductive age has been associated with an increasing number of high-risk pregnancies. Pregnant women with heart disease are a very heterogeneous population, with different risks for maternal cardiovascular, obstetric, and foetal complications. Adverse cardiovascular events during pregnancy pose significant clinical challenges, with uncertainties regarding diagnostic and therapeutic approaches potentially compromising maternal and foetal health. This review summarizes best practice for the treatment of common cardiovascular complications during pregnancy, based on expert opinion, current guidelines, and available evidence. Topics covered include heart failure (HF), arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, aortic and thromboembolic events, and the management of mechanical heart valves during pregnancy. Cardiovascular pathology is the leading cause of non-obstetric morbidity and mortality during pregnancy in developed countries. For women with pre-existing cardiac conditions, preconception counselling and structured follow-up during pregnancy are important measures for reducing the risk of acute cardiovascular complications during gestation and at the time of delivery. However, many women do not receive pre-pregnancy counselling often due to gaps in what should be lifelong care, and physicians are increasingly encountering pregnant women who present acutely with cardiac complications, including HF, arrhythmias, aortic events, coronary syndromes, and bleeding or thrombotic events. This review provides a summary of recommendations on the management of acute cardiovascular complication during pregnancy, based on available literature and expert opinion. This article covers the diagnosis, risk stratification, and therapy and is organized according to the clinical presentation and the type of complication, providing a reference for the practicing cardiologist, obstetrician, and acute medicine specialist, while highlighting areas of need and potential future research.

Preexisting hypertension and pregnancy-induced hypertension reveal molecular differences in placental proteome in rodents.

Preexisting or new onset of hypertension affects pregnancy and is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. In certain cases, it also leads to long-term maternal cardiovascular complications. The placenta is a key player in the pathogenesis of complicated hypertensive pregnancies, however the pathomechanisms leading to an abnormal placenta are poorly understood. In this study, we compared the placental proteome of two pregnant hypertensive models with their corresponding normotensive controls: a preexisting hypertension pregnancy model (stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats; SHRSP) versus Wistar–Kyoto and the transgenic RAS activated gestational hypertension model (transgenic for human angiotensinogen Sprague-Dawley rats; SD-PE) versus Sprague-Dawley rats, respectively. Label-free proteomics using nano LC-MS/MS was performed for identification and quantification of proteins. Between the two models, we found widespread differences in the expression of placental proteins including those related to hypertension, inflammation, and trophoblast invasion, whereas pathways such as regulation of serine endopeptidase activity, tissue injury response, coagulation, and complement activation were enriched in both models. We present for the first time the placental proteome of SHRSP and SD-PE and provide insight into the molecular make-up of models of hypertensive pregnancy. Our study informs future research into specific preeclampsia and chronic hypertension pregnancy mechanisms and translation of rodent data to the clinic.

Cardiovascular events following pregnancy complicated by pre-eclampsia with emphasis on comparison between early- and late-onset forms: systematic review and meta-analysis.

To elucidate whether pre-eclampsia (PE) and the gestational age at onset of the disease (early- vs late-onset PE) have an impact on the risk of long-term maternal cardiovascular complications. MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched until 15 April 2020 for studies evaluating the incidence of cardiovascular events in women with a history of PE, utilizing combinations of the relevant MeSH terms, keywords and word variants for 'pre-eclampsia', 'cardiovascular disease' and 'outcome'. Inclusion criteria were cohort or case-control design, inclusion of women with a diagnosis of PE at the time of the first pregnancy, and sufficient data to compare each outcome in women with a history of PE vs women with previous normal pregnancy and/or in women with a history of early- vs late-onset PE. The primary outcome was a composite score of maternal cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, including cardiovascular death, major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, hypertension, need for antihypertensive therapy, Type-2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome. Secondary outcomes were the individual components of the primary outcome analyzed separately. Data were combined using a random-effects generic inverse variance approach. MOOSE guidelines and the PRISMA statement were followed. Seventy-three studies were included. Women with a history of PE, compared to those with previous normotensive pregnancy, had a higher risk of composite adverse cardiovascular outcome (odds ratio (OR), 2.05 (95% CI, 1.9-2.3)), cardiovascular death (OR, 2.18 (95% CI, 1.8-2.7)), major cardiovascular events (OR, 1.80 (95% CI, 1.6-2.0)), hypertension (OR, 3.93 (95% CI, 3.1-5.0)), need for antihypertensive medication (OR, 4.44 (95% CI, 2.4-8.2)), dyslipidemia (OR, 1.32 (95% CI, 1.3-1.4)), Type-2 diabetes (OR, 2.14 (95% CI, 1.5-3.0)), abnormal renal function (OR, 3.37 (95% CI, 2.3-5.0)) and metabolic syndrome (OR, 4.30 (95% CI, 2.6-7.1)). Importantly, the strength of the associations persisted when considering the interval (< 1, 1-10 or > 10 years) from PE to the occurrence of these outcomes. When stratifying the analysis according to gestational age at onset of PE, women with previous early-onset PE, compared to those with previous late-onset PE, were at higher risk of composite adverse cardiovascular outcome (OR, 1.75 (95% CI, 1.0-3.0)), major cardiovascular events (OR, 5.63 (95% CI, 1.5-21.4)), hypertension (OR, 1.48 (95% CI, 1.3-1.7)), dyslipidemia (OR, 1.51 (95% CI, 1.3-1.8)), abnormal renal function (OR, 1.52 (95% CI, 1.1-2.2)) and metabolic syndrome (OR, 1.66 (95% CI, 1.1-2.5). Both early- and late-onset PE represent risk factors for maternal adverse cardiovascular events later in life. Early-onset PE is associated with a higher burden of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to late-onset PE. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Impact of Obesity on Outcomes of Pregnancy in Women With Heart Disease

BackgroundWomen with heart disease are at risk for complications during pregnancy. This study sought to examine the effect of maternal obesity on pregnancy complications in women with heart disease. ObjectivesThe objective was to determine the incidence of adverse cardiac events (CE) in pregnant women with heart disease and obesity. MethodsAdverse CE during pregnancy were examined in a prospective cohort of women with heart disease. CE were a composite of the following: cardiac death/arrest, arrhythmias, heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, aortic dissection, and thromboembolic events. Pre-eclampsia and post-partum hemorrhage were also studied. Outcomes were examined according to body mass index (BMI). To identify additional predictors of CE, a baseline risk score (CARPREG [Canadian Cardiac Disease in Pregnancy Study] II score) for predicting cardiac complications was calculated for all pregnancies and included in a multivariable logistic regression model. ResultsOf 790 pregnancies, 19% occurred in women with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (obesity), 25% in women with BMI 25 to 29.9 kg/m2 (overweight), 53% in women with BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2 (normal weight), and 3% in women with BMI <18.5 kg/m2 (underweight). Women with obesity were at higher risk of CE when compared with women with normal weight (23% vs. 14%; p = 0.006). In a multivariable model, obesity (odds ratio: 1.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.0 to 2.7) and higher CARPREG II risk scores (odds ratio: 1.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.5 to 1.9) predicted CE. Pre-eclampsia was more frequent in women with obesity compared with those with normal weight (8% vs. 2%; p = 0.001). ConclusionsObesity increases the risk of maternal cardiovascular complications in pregnant women with heart disease. This modifiable risk factor should be addressed at the time of preconception counseling.

Maternal and fetal outcomes in phaeochromocytoma and pregnancy: a multicentre retrospective cohort study and systematic review of literature

Phaeochromocytoma or paraganglioma (collectively known as PPGL) in pregnant women can lead to severe complications and death due to associated catecholamine excess. We aimed to identify factors associated with maternal and fetal outcomes in women with PPGL during pregnancy. We did a multicentre, retrospective study of patients with PPGL and pregnancy between Jan 1, 1980, and Dec 31, 2019, in the International Pheochromocytoma and Pregnancy Registry and a systematic review of studies published between Jan 1, 2005, and Dec 27, 2019 reporting on at least five cases. The inclusion criteria were pregnancy after 1980 and PPGL before or during pregnancy or within 12 months post partum. Eligible patients from the retrospective study and systematic review were included in the analysis. Outcomes of interest were maternal or fetal death and maternal severe cardiovascular complications of catecholamine excess. Potential variables associated with these outcomes were evaluated by logistic regression. The systematic review identified seven studies (reporting on 63 pregnancies in 55 patients) that met the eligibility criteria and were of adequate quality. A further 197 pregnancies in 186 patients were identified in the International Pheochromocytoma and Pregnancy Registry. After excluding 11 pregnancies due to potential overlap, the final cohort included 249 pregnancies in 232 patients with PPGL. The diagnosis of PPGL was made before pregnancy in 37 (15%) pregnancies, during pregnancy in 134 (54%), and after delivery in 78 (31%). Of 144 patients evaluated for genetic predisposition for phaeochromocytoma, 95 (66%) were positive. Unrecognised PPGL during pregnancy (odds ratio 27·0; 95% CI 3·5-3473·1), abdominal or pelvic tumour location (11·3; 1·5-1440·5), and catecholamine excess at least ten-times the upper limit of the normal range (4·7; 1·8-13·8) were associated with adverse outcomes. For patients diagnosed during pregnancy, α-adrenergic blockade therapy was associated with fewer adverse outcomes (3·6; 1·1-13·2 for no α-adrenergic blockade vs α-adrenergic blockade), whereas surgery during pregnancy was not associated with better outcomes (0·9; 0·3-3·9 for no surgery vs surgery). Unrecognised and untreated PPGL was associated with a substantially higher risk of either maternal or fetal complications. Appropriate case detection and counselling for premenopausal women at risk for PPGL could prevent adverse pregnancy-related outcomes. US National Institutes of Health.

Preeclampsia as a risk factor of the cardiovascular complications development

Introduction:The term “preeclampsia” (PE) refers to a multisystem disorder occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy; it includes a new onset of hypertension and proteinuria and affects from 2 to 8% of all pregnancies. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a group of pathologies, which present significant mortality rate all over the world. The literature implicates that both disorders are linked in a sense of further cardiovascular complications in women who had preeclamptic pregnancy.Purpose:Evaluation of the relationship between pre-eclampsia and the risk of future potential maternal cardiovascular complications and proposal of the possible causes of this association.Materials and methods:We performed the database research using Pubmed, Springer Link and ResearchGate and we made review and meta-analysis of relevant studies. We searched for studies analyzing the relationship between preeclampsia and future maternal cardiovascular risk.Results:Systematic reviews and cohort studies qualified for the purpose of this review showed the relationship between preeclampsia and future cardiovascular diseases in mothers. The possible explanations include endothelium dysfunction enduring after delivery and the co-existence of common risk factors for both diseases.Conclusions:Preeclampsia is a risk factor predisposing to cardiovascular diseases and may lead to cardiac complications later in life. The course of pregnancies is very important for the future maternal health.Key words: preeclampsia; pregnancy; hypertension; cardiovascular disease

508 Puerperal thrombosis on mitral valve prothesis

Abstract Introduction Replacement of a diseased heart valve with a prosthetic heart valve exchanges the native disease for prosthesis-related complications. Valve thrombosis can occur in mechanical prosthetic valves. The significant morbidity and mortality associated with this condition permits rapid diagnostic evaluation. A combination of transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is required to assess the haemodynamic effect of thrombosis, leaflet motion and thrombus size. Mechanical valves offer excellent haemodynamic performance and long-term durability, but the need for anticoagulation increases maternal and foetal mortality and morbidity, and the risk of major cardiac events during pregnancy. Case report A 23-year-old gravida 0 woman was admitted to the emergency obstetric care. At the age of 18 months, she underwent valve replacement surgery in the mitral position (St. Jude Medical Standard size 25mm), this requires use of warfarin after surgery. Although she was advised otherwise; the patient became pregnant. She had an increased risk of maternal cardiovascular complications [Modified World Health Organization classification (mWHO) III] and obstetrics complications. The warfarin treatment was discontinued, and it was started low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) 100IU, twice daily subcutaneously, on gestation 36 week. The last administration was 2 days before the admission (&amp;gt;48h before delivery). So, on gestation week 39, she was admitted to the department of Obstetrics. Then, as cardiotocography showed decreased foetal heart rate, an emergency caesarean section was performed. A healthy baby was delivered. After delivery, we perform an immediate two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE), as there was a high-risk of valve thrombosis, and it showed an apparent normal prosthetic excursion but a high mean pressure gradient (25mmHg) – elevated transprosthetic gradient. It was not well visualized the occlude motion of the mechanical valve by 2D TTE, so we perform a TEE to answer the clinical question, if there was a dysfunction due to an acute process (i.e. thrombus). It revealed an obstruction – reduced mobility of one disc and elevated velocities by CW doppler (30mmHg), and a presence of thrombus (1.3X0.8mm). The anticoagulation with intravenous UFH was started immediately, but anticoagulation failed, and she underwent valve replacement surgery (St. Jude Medical standard size 27mm. Conclusion Our patient had a very-high risk of complications maternal cardiovascular complications - WHO risk classification III - because the risk of valve thrombosis is markedly increased during pregnancy. The risk is lower with adequate dosing of anticoagulant therapy, but our patient was not which increased the risk of thrombosis. Finally, it is important to notice that it is recommended to manage pregnancy in women with mechanical valves in a centre with a pregnancy heart team. Abstract 508 Figure. Valve thrombosis

Pregnancy outcomes in a patient with Fontan circulation for single ventricle congenital heart disease and aberrant praevia placental lobe

Single ventricle heart (SVH) is a very rare congenital heart disease. However, since the introduction of Fontan's intervention, the survival rate of patients with SVH has been significantly improved, increasing the number of women who may become pregnant in this condition. It has been already reported, in isolated case presentations or in some series of patients, that the pregnacy in the context of SVH and Fontan circulation carries a very high risk for first trimester miscarriage, maternal cardiovascular or obstetric complications and for an increased rate of pre-term birth. Therefore, it is an open field of debate weather or not to allow pregnancy in this category of patients. We are presenting the case of a 22 years old patient who underwent two surgeries for SVH: a Glenn procedure when she was 2 years old and the implantation of a Fontan circuit at the age of 16 years. Since the last surgery she was under permanent internal cardiac stimulation. During the pregnancy the patient was hemodynamically stable, with a normal resting oxygen saturation and a good ejection fraction of the single ventricle. However, the evolution of this patient has become even more challenging due to an aberrant praevia placental lobe. This condition brought her to hospital for several episodes of metrorrhagia and uterine contractions. She delivered at 33 weeks of gestation by emergency Caesarian section with a good evolution until discharge, for mother and the newborn. This case is supporting the opinion that pregnancy can be tolerated without important cardiovascular events in patients with SVH and Fontan circulation, unless heart failure or cardiac arrythmia are associated. Nevertheless, the obstetrical complications remain an important problem in pregnancy overcome of patients with Fontan circulation for SVH that can be superimposed with other unfavorable conditions, like aberrant praevia placental lobe in this case. During the management of such particular clinical settings difficult decisions must be taken, including those addressing the antithrombotic therapy that will be covered in the presentation of this case. Keywords: Pregnancy outcome; Cardiovascular pregnancy complications; Fontan procedure; Delivery, obstetrics.

Maternal cardiovascular complications at the time of delivery and subsequent re-hospitalization in the USA, 2010-16.

Cardiovascular (CV) complications are the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. The objective was to estimate trends in the incidence of peripartum CV complications in the USA between 2010 and 2016. This was a retrospective analyses using data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project. We included women with delivery codes consistent with delivery, weighted to a national estimate. The primary outcome was the age-adjusted incidence of CV complications among all deliveries, including complications that occurred during re-hospitalizations. Complications were identified using International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes. Joinpoint regression was used to evaluate time trends and complications were stratified by type. The secondary outcome was in-hospital maternal death among women with a CV complication. We identified a weighted estimate of 27408652 women hospitalized for delivery from 2010 to 2016. Including all years, the complication incidence was 7.36/1000 births [95% confidence interval (CI) 7.18-7.54], with an estimated annual percentage change of 5.8% (95% CI 3.7-7.8%). Cardiac dysrhythmia was the most common complication [3.98/1000 births (95% CI 3.88-4.08)] and acute myocardial infarction was the least common complication [0.11/1000 births (95% CI 0.10-0.11)]. The incidence of hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrest increased over time, the incidence of congestive heart failure and acute cerebrovascular disease remained stable, the incidence of pulmonary heart disease increased from 2015 onward, and the incidence of cardiac dysrhythmia decreased in 2016. Complications during re-hospitalization accounted for 13.6% (95% CI 13.2-14.1%) of all complications and was highest for acute myocardial infarction [28.1% (95% CI 23.2-33.1)]. Among women with any complication, the mortality rate was 1.20 (95% CI 1.11-1.29) per 100 complications. Our analyses suggest the rate of peripartum CV complications are increasing in the USA, which highlights the need for active efforts in research and prevention.

Delivery outcomes in women with congenital heart disease: results from the Cuban National Programme for pregnancy and heart disease

ObjectiveTo inform on delivery outcomes achieved in congenital heart disease (CHD) patients by the Cuban National Programme for pregnancy and heart disease.MethodsSingle-centre retrospective study on a prospectively collected cardiac pregnancy database at a tertiary referral hospital (January 2000–May 2017). Primary outcomes: pregnancy duration, outcome, maternal/fetal complications.ResultsFour hundred sixty-seven pregnancies in 462 recorded cases reached third trimester. Median age: 25 (21–29) years. Patients presented in NYHA class I (97%, n = 453) or II (3%, n = 14), 6% (n = 27) had arrhythmias, 1% (n = 4) had co-morbidities, 1% (n = 4) had impaired left ventricular function. There were 464 singleton pregnancies and 3 twin pregnancies. Of the singleton pregnancies, one resulted in stillbirth (0.2%). The rest were live births (n = 463), median weight 3200 (2900–3421) grams. Median pregnancy duration: 39.1 (38.6–40) weeks. Caesarean rate: 34% (n = 156). All twin pregnancies (n = 3) resulted in live births (n = 6) via caesarean section, of median weight 2710 (2458–2850) grams and median pregnancy duration 37 (36–38) weeks. Maternal cardiovascular complications (< 0.5%, n = 2), and obstetric complications (14%, n = 67) did not result in any mortality. Small-for-gestational-age was the commonest neonatal complication (10%, n = 48), with zero mortality. Three neonates (1%) had CHD. Post-delivery maternal NYHA functional status: class I in 84% (n = 393), class II in 16% (n = 73), and class III in one patient (< 0.5%).ConclusionIn middle-income countries management of CHD pregnancies according to existing guidelines can achieve good maternal and fetal outcomes.

Pregnancy outcomes in patients with a fontan circulation and proposal for a risk-scoring system: single centre experience

BackgroundPregnancy in women with Fontan physiology poses a significant management challenge and is deemed high risk. The aim of this study is to describe short and long-term pregnancy outcomes in women who have undergone Fontan palliation and propose a novel risk-stratification model specific to women with a Fontan heart.MethodsWe undertook a single-centre, retrospective cohort study of all female Fontan patients (n = 78) from 1991–2015. We recorded pregnancy outcome, maternal cardiovascular and obstetric complications and fetal outcome. We propose a risk stratification model to identify those women who might be at highest risk of adverse outcomes during pregnancy.ResultsTwenty-one women had 55 pregnancies, with 13 (24%) live births and 38 (69%) spontaneous miscarriages (p < 0.001). Eight (62%) out of 13 live birth pregnancies incurred maternal cardiovascular complications and six (46%) experienced maternal obstetric complications. Median gestational age at delivery was 32(27–39) weeks with 12 out of 13 (92%) pregnancies resulting in pre-term delivery. There were more pregnancies (OR 4.90, 95% CI 1.46–16.42, p ≤ 0.01) and a trend towards a higher proportion of live births (OR 7.60, 95% CI 1.81–31.97, p = 0.06), in the ‘lower risk’ compared to those women in the ‘very high risk’ group. There were no maternal deaths.ConclusionsWe observed a high first trimester miscarriage rate, significant maternal cardiovascular and obstetric complication rates and a high rate of pre-term births in pregnant Fontan women. Our risk stratification model requires further investigation but may identify those women at particularly high risk of a poor outcome, and inform realistic pre-pregnancy counselling.