Mechanical Mitral Valve Research Articles

P700 TEE guidance of percutaneous closure the inlet and exit of ascending aorta pseudoaneurysm in a patient had triple valve replacement

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements none OnBehalf none Introduction Surgical treatment of ascending aortic pseudoaneurysms (AAPA) that develop following cardiac surgery carries significant morbidity and mortality. However, there are emerging reports of transcatheter closure of AAPA. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case where the APA communicates with the left ventricle (LV) cavity with significant diastolic volume overload mimic severe aortic regurgitation. We added to the complications of APA, a fistulous communication with LV causing severe volume overload and heart failure. Case description: Thirty-two years old female underwent mechanical aortic and mitral valve replacement and bioprosthetic tricuspid valve replacement in April 2013. At October 2016, she started to have progressive shortness of breath. TEE revealed large ascending aorta pseudoaneurysm that communicates with LV cavity. Cardiac computed tomography (CT) with contrast revealed a sizeable noncoronary sinus of Valsalva pseudoaneurysm 47mm x 39mm. Surgical excision of the aneurysm decided, but the patient refused any surgical procedure. Percutaneous closure of the inlet and exit of the aneurysm discussed and accepted by the patient. The procedure of transcatheter aneurysm device closure performed successfully with TEE guidance (Figure). A: showed the aneurysm exit to the LV while D: showed its inlet from the aorta. The wire passed the aneurysm inlet at ascending aorta to its outlet in the LV (B). Six mm VSD device deployed closing the aneurysm exit to LV (C). Another 6mm VSD device deployed closing the aneurysm inlet (E). Transgastric long axis aorta view showed no more flow to LV. Midessophageal Short axis view showed no flow between ascending aorta and the aneurysm. Fluoroscopy injection inside the aneurysm (F), another two devices left inside the aneurysm (G). The patient was observed in the cardiac care unit (CCU) for two days, then discharged home in good condition. She was followed in the outpatient clinic after two weeks, and she is doing well with no more shortness of breath. Follow up echo after one year of the procedure showed a small remaining flow from the aneurysmal cavity to the left ventricle. (H and K) compares apical three-chamber view before and one year after closure. Discussion: Preprocedural CT and Intraprocedural TEE are mandatory in determining the size and location of AAPA. Also, the type and size of suitable devices for closure. Overall, the success rate for percutaneous closure is 80%, with a 12% device embolization rate and an 8% failure rate of the transcatheter technique to close the pseudoaneurysm, necessitating conversion to surgical closure. In most reported cases the AAPA had only communication with the aorta. In our case, the AAPA also communicates with the LV cavity that requires the closure of both communications. Conclusion: Percutaneous closure of the inlet and exit of AAPA with TEE guidance is feasible. Long term follow up is required in a large number of patients. Abstract P700 Figure: AAPA device closure

P1579 Detection of mechanical prosthetic valve dysfunction: an integrated multimodality imaging approach

Abstract Background Although the long-term outcome of mechanical mitral and aortic prosthetic valve (M-PV, Ao-PV), PV dysfunction (PVD) remains a very serious complication associated with high morbidity and mortality. PVD, in terms of thrombosis/pannus or paravalvular leak, is not associated with a peculiar clinical presentation. However, a prompt PVD detection is essential for referring the patient to the optimal treatment (clinical follow-up, thrombolysis, surgery). An integrated multimodality imaging approach, comprising several parameters by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and fluoroscopy (F), is mandatory to address the patient to the best therapeutic option. Purpose This study aims to evaluate the incremental diagnostic value of combined TTE + F over each imaging modality alone in pts with Ao-PV or M-PV symptomatic for dyspnea, embolic events, fever or haemolysis and therefore at high suspicion for PVD. Methods We enrolled 388 consecutive pts (62 ± 11y, 213 Ao-PV, 175 M-PV) suspected for PVD. All patients were imaged by TTE and F within 2 days after the admission to the hospital. TTE was defined positive for PVD in presence of intra/para-prosthetic regurgitation or high transprosthetic gradient (DP > 20 mmHg in Ao-PV, DP >10 mmHg in M-PV) combined with other altered Doppler parameters (for Ao-PV: DVI < 0.25, AT > 95ms; for M-PV: Peak Mitral Velocity > 2.2m/sec, VTIPrMV/VTILVO > 2.5, PHT > 130ms). A positive F for PVD was defined by leaflet/s restriction. In all pts, PVD was confirmed by transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE), positive response of thrombolysis (T), or surgical inspection (S). Results PVD was found in 46% (99/213) of Ao-PV and in 56% (98/175) of M-PV at TOE/T/S. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV) and diagnostic accuracy (ACC) for TTE, F and combined TTE + F are reported in Table. The integration of TTE + F data significantly improved ACC both for Ao-PV and M-PV. At ROC analysis, the combined model of TTE + F showed the highest AUC for the detection of PVD compared with TTE and F alone (Figure). Conclusions In patients with clinical suspicion of PVD, the combined model of TTE + F had a significant incremental value over TTE or F alone to diagnose PVD. This multimodality imaging approach allows to overcome limitations of TTE or F alone and consequently provides a prompt PVD detection even though TOE remains the gold standard to diagnose paravalvular leak and non-obstructive thrombosis. Table Ao-PV: TTE(n = 211) Ao-PV: F(n = 204) Ao-PV: TTE + F(n = 202) MV-PV: TTE(n = 175) MV-PV: F(n = 159) MV-PV: TTE + F(n = 159) Sensitivity/Specificity 86(79-93)/89(84-95) 59(49-68)/99(97-100) 94(89-99)/88(81-94) 83(75-90)/78(68-87) 45(35-55)/98(95-100) 87(81-94)/75(64-86) ACC 88(83-92) 79(74-85) 91(87-95) 81(75-90) 67(59-74) 82(76-88) Comparison of diagnostic accuracy between TTE, F, and TTE + F for detecting PVD Abstract P1579 Figure. ROC curves

The nightmare of obstructive mechanical valve thrombosis: What is the optimal care?

Obstructive mechanical valve thrombosis is a rare and serious disease. Despite therapeutic progress, mortality remains high, and the choice between surgery and thrombolytic therapy remains controversial. We report the case of a 46-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department for obstructive mitral mechanical valve thrombosis successfully thrombolyzed by the recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Through this case, we would like to discuss the different therapeutic options, and why fibrinolysis was our choice for this particular patient.

High-density Mapping Facilitates Successful Ablation of Postincisional Right Atrial Flutter After Previous Mechanical Mitral Valve Replacement.

High-density Mapping Facilitates Successful Ablation of Postincisional Right Atrial Flutter After Previous Mechanical Mitral Valve Replacement.

505 Car accident, an unusual cause of acute severe mitral regurgitation due to anterolateral papillary muscle rupture

Abstract A 52-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department of the University Hospital after being involved in a car crash. At first he was alert with stable vital parameters. There was bilateral rales on lung auscultation, without further prominent aberrant findings at the initial clinical examination. Shortly after, he became agitated with respiratory distress, resulting into respiratory insufficiency. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the thorax showed multiple rib fractures, a translated sternal fracture and pulmonary contusion. After intubation and stabilization he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where his respiratory and cardiovascular parameters progressively worsened, leading to cardiogenic shock. An urgent chest X-ray revealed a tension pneumothorax with mediastinal shift to the right, for which a chest tube was inserted in the left hemithorax. No or little improvement was seen after this intervention. Therefore, an emergency transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed. Subcostal view showed a severe mitral regurgitation with a mass in the left atrium. Because of a limited transthoracic window, we proceeded to a transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). A completely ruptured anterolateral papillary muscle of the mitral valve was seen, protruding in the left atrium and resulting in severe mitral regurgitation (Figure). Other echocardiographic findings were a hyperdynamic systolic function of the left ventricle, a hypo-contractile right ventricle with a mild-to-moderate quantity of pericardial effusion. Taking into account the increased cardiovascular risk profile of the patient, a coronary angiography was performed and showed normal coronary anatomy. Consequently, urgent surgical intervention was performed. Perioperative assessment confirmed the earlier described echocardiographic findings. Due to severe laceration of the left ventricular wall at the level of the attachment site of the anterolateral papillary muscle, reconstructive surgery was not possible. The anterolateral papillary muscle head with the attached mitral valve leaflet was fully excised with repair of the concealed myocardial rupture site. A mechanical mitral valve prosthesis and an intra-aortic balloon pump for hemodynamic support were placed. After four days the balloon pump was removed and the tenth day after admission the patient was extubated. Conclusion Acute severe mitral regurgitation due to papillary muscle rupture is a rare but potential fatal complication of a blunt trauma. TOE is essential in early diagnosis. Abstract 505 Figure 1

1643 A challenging diagnosis in prosthetic mitral valve obstruction

Abstract A 53-year-old man was referred to our center for a prosthesic mitral valve obstruction. In December 2017 the patient had a myocardial infarction complicated by papillary muscle rupture and anterior leaflet flail; therefore he underwent a mechanical mitral valve replacement (size 29). A first echocardiographic control in August 2018 was reported as normal. In February 2019 a further echocardiography showed an increase of the trans-prosthetic pressure gradients and a suspected restricted motion of the anterior tilting disk; a cinefluoroscopy view confirmed the tilting disk blockade in the closing position. The patient was referred to our center for further investigations. We performed a 3D TOE that confirmed the prosthesis dysfunction: the anterior tilting disk was blocked (mean gradient 14 mmHg, 3D residual anatomical area 1.4 cm2); the mechanical cause of the obstruction was not identified. A cardiac CT was performed: a clear thrombus or pannus was not visualized, even if a linear hypodensity could be seen along the inner circumferential edge of the blocked disk. Finally the patient underwent the surgical intervention for prosthesis replacement. The visual analysis of the valve revealed a stratified thrombosis in both the atrial and ventricular side of the blocked disk, extending to the prosthetic ring and to the hinges. The patient developed a prosthetic valve dysfunction 9 to 13 months after valve replacement. Thrombus is the most common cause of obstruction of mechanical prostheses (0.3 to 8% per patient-year) while pannus formation usually occur over 5 years after surgery (minimum 12 months later). On the one hand, the patient assured a good anticoagulation regimen in the previous months, thrombosis in mitral valve position usually present with a large formation involving the disk projecting into left atrium, and large prosthesis size is associated with a lower risk of thrombosis. Our TOE confirmed the hemodynamic dysfunction but was not able to detect any cause of the leafleat bloackade. Cardiac CT has a better spatial resolution but only a focused MPR view allowed to identify a linear hypodense formation along the ring surrounding the blocked disk. This thin structure only involved the prostethic ring, apparently not projecting over the disk. These morphologic features are considered more in keeping with pannus, and only the low attenuation values (below the suggested threshold of 200 HU) helped to suspect a thrombotic stratification over the prosthetic ring. The surgical intervention revealed the real nature of the obstruction. In conclusion, thrombus may present with an unconventional appearance as a cause of prosthetic obstruction and, especially when stratified can mimick a pannus. Multimodality imaging is not always able to identify the cause of mechanical valve dysfunction; consequently, when the prosthesis obstruction is evident but imaging is inconclusive cardiac surgery is the only diagnostic and therapeutic resource. Abstract 1643 Figure. Prosthesis valve disfunction

89 Simultaneous ocurrence of hammock mitral valve and no-compaction cardiomyopathy

Abstract We report a 62-year-old man with a past medical history of dyslipidemia, paranoid schizophrenia and permanent atrial fibrillation. A ATTE performed at his district hospital revealed rheumatic mitral valve disease with double lesion: severe regurgitation and mild stenosis, plus moderate tricuspid regurgitation and a mean PAP of 32mm Hg. Cardiac catheterization showed no abnormalities of the coronary arteries. He was transferred to our hospital and scheduled for mitral valve replacement and tricuspid ring valvuloplasty. Preoperative transesophageal echocardiography showed an abnormal subvalvular mitral apparatus, with false tendons and multiple papillary muscles, resembling a hammock mitral valve. Most cordae tendinae arose from a single dominant papillary muscle at a posterior medial region, which provoke severe mitral regurgitation due to coaptation defect and mild subvalvular mitral stenosis. It could also be appreciated hypertrabeculation in the lateral medial, basal and apical segments. This suggested no-compaction cardiomyopathy associated with hammock mitral valve. Left ventricular systolic function was preserved. No evidence of rheumatic mitral valve disease was found in transesophageal echocardiographic study performed at our hospital. On the 30th April 2019 he underwent mechanic mitral valve replacement (Bicarbon 29mm) and tricuspid ring valvuloplasty (Edwards Physio 32mm) surgery. Once the patient was weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass, severe left ventricle systolic dysfunction ensued, predominantly localized in the anterior, inferior septal, inferior lateral basal and medial segments. Apical segments had preserved mobility An adrenalin infusion prior weaning from CBP was initiated. Preserved mobility of the mitral prosthesis discs was observed. The patient developed cardiogenic shock in spite of high doses of dobutamin and adrenaline infused. IACB was implanted with 1:1 assistance. The patient was transfered to the hemodynamic room in order to rule out coronary complications. Cardiac catheterization showed no significant angiographic lesions. During the first postoperative hours, the patient was stabilized allowing progressive lowering of the drugs (adrenaline, dobutamine). TTE showed normally functioning prosthetic mitral valve and preserved left ventricle systolic function. An MRI was performed demostrating no-compaction cardiomyopathy Conclusion This case report describes a rare presentation of simultaneous ocurrence of hammock mitral valve and no-compaction cardiomyopathy. Perioperative left ventricle dysfunction in no-compaction cardiomyopathy is related to subendocardial ischemia caused during extracorporeal circulation in the multiple prominent ventricular trabeculations with deep intertrabecular recesses corresponding to non-compacted myocardium .This must be taken account in those patients with no-compaction cardiomyopathy scheduled for cardiac surgery in order to take preventive measures. Abstract 89 Figure. non - compacted myocardium

Use of Suture tightening automated device COR-KNOT® for minimally invasive heart valve surgery: Our initial experience in Bangladesh

Background: COR-KNOT® (LSI Solutions, New York, NY, USA) is an automated suture securing device has not been well known. We report a case series for first automated knotting device used for minimally invasive heart valve surgery in Bangladesh. Method and
 Results: To overcome the challenge of knot securing via a Key-Hole surgery we have used CORKNOT ®. The newest device is capable of remotely and automatically secure sutures and simultaneously can cut and remove the excess suture tails. We covered the spectrum of heart valve surgery: There was one case of bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement, one case of mitral valve repair, one case of bioprosthetic mitral valve replacement, one case of failed mitral valve repair with COR-KNOT® explantation followed by mechanical mitral valve replacement and one case of redo-mitral valve replacement. Average length of hospital stays was 5 ± 1days. There was one reopening, one post-operative atrial fibrillation. No wound infection and no 30day mortality.
 Conclusion: We conclude, COR-KNOT® is a safe and effective tool to reduce the duration of operation. Clinical outcome of heart valve surgery with COR-KNOT® is comparable with other methods of suture tying methods.
 Bangladesh Heart Journal 2019; 34(2) : 127-131

A systematic review of the cost-effectiveness of heart valve replacement with a mechanical versus biological prosthesis in patients with heart valvular disease.

Heart valve disease (HVD) affects 2.5% of the US population and one million individuals aged 65years and older in the UK. Given its burden, the aim of the present review was to assess the cost-effectiveness of heart valve replacement with mechanical versus biological prosthesis in HVD patients. We performed a systematic search in various electronic databases from January 1990 to June 2019. Five out of 542 articles were entered into the study, from which 2 papers were subsequently excluded not meeting the minimum number of items of the CHEERS checklist. Quality-Adjusted Life Year, Life Years Gained, and the Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) regarding the type of replaced heart valve were extracted and reported. Studies were conducted in three different countries (Iran, France, and USA). ICER ranged from $1253 in Iran to €54,634 in France. Survival rate of mitral mechanical versus biological valves at 10 and 20years was 72.9% versus 76.0% and 51% versus 30%, respectively. Survival rate at 20years in patients undergoing atrial valve replacement was 20%. Ten- and 20-year death rates for biological valves were higher with respect to mechanical prosthesis (15.5% versus 8.4% at 10years), with this difference becoming more relevant at 20years (36.9% versus 13.9%). Due to higher ICER, mortality rate, and lower success rates in the long term for biological prostheses compared to mechanical ones, these appear to be more suitable for older patients (aged ≥ 70years).

Mechanical mitral valve replacement in children: an update

Ibezim et al . have recently brought serious methodology to assess mitral valve replacement (MVR) in children (1). MVR has been a matter of discussion for a long time. It is always a heart-breaking decision to make, especially in young children.

Flow characteristics in a model of a left ventricle in the presence of a dysfunctional mitral mechanical heart valve

Flow characteristics in a model of a left ventricle in the presence of a dysfunctional mitral mechanical heart valve

A Rare Case of Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction 18 Years after a Mechanical Mitral Valve Replacement

Background: Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction is a serious complication that can occur after various mitral-valves, surgical or percutaneous, interventions.
 It was rarely described in mechanical mitral valve replacements.
 Aim: to describe a rare case of late LVOT obstruction after a mitral valve replacement by a low-profile mechanical prosthesis.
 Case Presentation: A 48-year woman, with a history of rheumatic mitral valve disease and mechanical mitral replacement by a hemi-disc valve 18 years ago, presented for a recent dyspnea. Echocardiography showed a narrowing of the LVOT, with anterior position of the mitral prosthesis, aorto-mitral annular angulation, septal thickening and remnant native sub-valvular tissue attached to the septum in the LVOT region. This resulted in LVOT obstruction with a peak gradient of 75 mmHg. The heart team opted for a redo surgery, but the surgical decision was refused by the patient.
 Discussion: This is a rare case of late LVOT obstruction after mitral valve replacement by mechanical low-profile prosthesis. Preserved native mitral valve tissue, which is the main described cause of LVOT obstruction after mechanical mitral valve replacements was not the unique cause of obstruction in this patient who had also a septal thickening and anterior prosthetic position. Aorto-mitral annular angulation that was identified as a risk factor of LVOT obstruction after trans-catheter mitral valve replacements, should be, probably, also took into account and assessed pre-operatively in patients undergoing surgical mitral replacements.
 Conclusion: LVOT obstruction can occur after mechanical mitral replacements event with low profile prosthesis. In patients with identified risk factors of LVOT obstruction, preservation mitral anterior leaflet should be avoided, and preservation of other native mitral tissue should be discussed.

210Predictors of thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease according to the EHRA classification: beyond mitral stenosis and mechanical prosthetic heart valves

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) and valvular heart disease (VHD) often coexist. They are independent causes of mortality and morbidity, and both have been associated with risk of thromboembolic events. Historically, the definition of VHD in AF patients has been inconsistent, which led to the proposal of a new classification of AF patients with VHD: the “Evaluated Heartvalves, Rheumatic or Artificial” (EHRA) valve classification, categorizing patients into: EHRA Type 1 VHD and EHRA Type 2 VHD. EHRA Type 1 VHD comprises AF patients with mitral stenosis (moderate-severe, of rheumatic origin) or a mechanical prosthetic valve replacement. EHRA Type 2 VHD includes AF patients with any other heart valve disease or a bioprosthetic valve replacement. The thromboembolic risk in this latter heterogeneous group is uncertain and, thus, identifying clinically relevant predictors of thromboembolism will facilitate more individualized risk stratification and identify high-risk subgroups, thereby, optimize prevention strategies. Purpose In a large nationwide cohort study, we aimed to identify clinically relevant predictors of thromboembolism in AF patients with EHRA Type 2 VHD. Methods We conducted a cohort study of AF patients with co-existing EHRA Type 2 VHD, identified by ICD-10 codes using record linkage between nationwide registries in Denmark from 2000 through 2018. Time-to-event analysis was applied to describe the association between EHRA Type 2 VHD and risk of thromboembolism. We used a multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model with time since incident AF diagnosis as the underlying time axis to estimate predictors of the outcome at 5-years of follow-up. Parameters included were clinically relevant risk factors, statin therapy, antithrombotic therapy, and time since VHD diagnosis. Results A total of 27,254 patients with EHRA Type 2 VHD was identified. After 5 years of follow-up, the rate of thromboembolism was 3.27 per 100 person-years. History of thromboembolism (HR: 4.85, 95% CI: 4.43–5.31) and age ≥75 (HR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.70–2.28) were the strongest predictors of thromboembolism, but age 65–74, female sex, vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia/hypercholesterolemia, history of bleeding, and increasing CHA2DS2-VASc score were also independent predictors [Figure]. Predictors of thromboembolism Conclusion Among AF patients with VHD beyond mitral stenosis and mechanical prosthetic heart valves, the rate of thromboembolism is high after 5 years of follow-up. The strongest clinically relevant predictors of thromboembolism are history of thromboembolism and age ≥75. Future studies examining the optimal antithrombotic prevention strategy for EHRA Type 2 VHD are encouraged. Acknowledgement/Funding The study was supported by “The BMS/Pfizer European Thrombosis Investigator Initiated Research Program 2018 (ERISTA)” and the Obel Family Foundation.

P1780Usefulness of multimodality imaging approach in the diagnosis of mechanical prosthetic valve dysfunction

Abstract Background Although the long-term outcome of mechanical mitral and aortic prosthetic valve (M-PV, Ao-PV), PV dysfunction (PVD) remains a very serious complication associated with high morbidity and mortality. Thrombosis/pannus and paravalvular leak are the 2 main mechanisms of PVD. The diagnosis of PVD, based on clinical presentation may be challenging, but it is essential for referring the patient to the optimal treatment (clinical follow-up, thrombolysis, surgery). An integrated multimodality imaging approach, comprising several parameters by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and fluoroscopy (F), is mandatory to pursue the correct therapeutic pathway. Purpose This study aims to evaluate the incremental diagnostic value of combined TTE+F over each imaging modality alone in symptomatic pts with Ao-PV or M-PV and high suspicion of PVD. Methods 387 consecutive pts (63±11y, 213 Ao-PV, 173 M-PV) suspected for PVD, symptomatic for dyspnea, embolic events, fever or haemolysis were enrolled. All patients were imaged by TTE and F within 2 days after the admission to the hospital. TTE was defined positive for PVD in presence of intra/para-prosthetic regurgitation or high transprosthetic gradient (>20mmHg in Ao-PV, >8mmHg in M-PV) together with altered Doppler parameters (for Ao-PV: DVI <0.25, AT>95ms; for M-PV: Peak Mitral Velocity>2m/sec, VTIPrMV/VTILVO>2.5, PHT>130ms). F was defined positive for PVD when leaflet/s restriction occurs. PVD was confirmed by transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) or positive response of thrombolysis (T), or surgical inspection (S). Results PVD was found in 46% (99/213) of Ao-PV and in 53% (91/173) of M-PV at TOE/T/S. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV) and diagnostic accuracy (ACC) for TTE, F and combined TTE+F are reported in Table. The integration of TTE+F data significantly improved ACC both for Ao-PV and M-PV. At ROC analysis, the combined model of TTE+F showed the highest AUC for the detection of PVD compared with TTE and F alone (Figure). Table 1. Comparison of diagnostic accuracy between TTE, F, and TTE+F TTE-Ao-PV (n=211) F-Ao_PV (n=204) TTE+F-Ao-PV (n=202) TTE-M-PV (n=172) F-M-PV (n=158) TTE+F-M-PV (n=157) SE / SP / NPV / PPV / ACC (%) 86 / 89 / 88 / 88 / 88 59 / 99 / 72 / 98 / 79 94 / 88 / 94 / 88 / 91 74 / 90 / 75 / 89 / 81 49 / 96 / 60 / 93 / 70 81 / 86 / 78 / 88 / 83 Figure 1. ROC curves Conclusions In patients with clinical suspicion of PVD, TTE and F are both valid tools to evaluate the PV performance. However, the combined model of TTE+F had a significant incremental value over TTE or F alone to diagnose the presence of PVD. This multimodality imaging approach allows to overcome several weaknesses of the TTE or F alone and consequently provides a prompt recognition of PVD even though TOE remains the gold standard to diagnose paravalvular Leak and non-obstructive thrombosis.

Echocardiographic Profiles and Reasons for Valve-Related Reoperation after Mechanical vs Bioprosthetic Mitral Valve Replacement in Young Patients: Two-Center Collaborative Experience

Echocardiographic Profiles and Reasons for Valve-Related Reoperation after Mechanical vs Bioprosthetic Mitral Valve Replacement in Young Patients: Two-Center Collaborative Experience

3104 Esophageal Hematoma: A Colossal Obstacle

INTRODUCTION: Esophageal hematomas are rare but well described phenomena that can present as retrosternal chest pain, hematemesis, and dysphagia. They are seen in association with anticoagulation therapy, mechanical trauma, and increased intraesophageal pressure as caused by excessive retching and vomiting. We describe a case of esophageal hematoma following catheter ablation for treatment of atrial fibrillation. CASE DESCRIPTION/METHODS: A 73 year old female with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, nephrectomy, rheumatic heart disease status post mechanical mitral valve on warfarin, refractory atrial fibrillation was admitted for hematemesis after elective atrial fibrillation ablation. The patient underwent TEE during which an esophageal probe was required for repositioning of the esophagus. No blood was seen when the probe was removed, but at the end of the procedure the patient had hematemesis. INR at presentation was 3.7. The patient was emergently intubated and an EGD revealed a large clot occluding the mid-esophagus, denuded mucosa with oozing from multiple sites, and a large clot in the fundus (Figure 1). A chest CTA showed circumferential esophageal thickening and distention with non-enhancing blood products extending from above the thoracic inlet to the GE junction, with clot also outlined by oral contrast within the gastric lumen. No definite communication between the esophagus and atrial pulmonary veins was identified. A repeat endoscopy the next day again showed the large esophageal hematoma (Figure 2) and was aborted to avoid additional esophageal trauma. A week later, CTA chest showed persistent esophageal intramural hematoma with no evidence of aortoenteric fistula. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted and placed a percutaneous gastrostomy tube. The patient was recovering well, but shortly upon extubation, the patient died of cardiorespiratory arrest. DISCUSSION: Esophageal hematomas typically develop in middle-aged women and present as a triad of retrosternal chest pain, dysphagia and hematemesis. The mechanism producing the hematoma may determine the site. For example, a hematoma from vomiting would be at the esophagogastric junction, whereas from a caustic substance might be at points of narrowing. It can be visualised on endoscopy or as a filling defect on barium esophagogram. Computed tomographic images reveal a mass confined to the esophageal lumen that does not enhance with injection of contrast medium. Conservative and supportive care remains the main therapeutic modality.

Poor Outcome of Surgical Management of Acute Malfunctioning Mechanical Mitral Valve During Pregnancy. Should Centers with Limited Resources Find Different Options?

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is the most common cardiac disease in pregnancy in developing countries with the mitral valve being the most affected. In this study, the results of surgical intervention in pregnant women presented with acute malfunctioning mechanical mitral valve were discussed. All patients underwent emergency redo mitral valve replacement due to acute malfunctioning mechanical mitral valve during pregnancy in a single center between January 2005 and December 2017. These patients were retrospectively analyzed. Additionally, anticoagulation strategy before the event and outcomes for the mother and the fetus were outlined. Between 2005 and 2017, 16 pregnant women arrived in a single tertiary center with acute malfunctioning mechanical mitral valves. The mean gestational age at the time of presentation was 13.19 ± 2.6 weeks. Fifteen out of the 16 patients changed their anticoagulation regimen either with or without medical advice. After replacing the valve, cardiopulmonary bypass successfully was weaned in 12 patients, who were transferred to the ICU sedated and ventilated with variable doses of chemical Inotropes. The remaining 4 patients died on the table after failure of weaning from bypass. In one case, the patient developed immediate postoperative stroke with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 7, CT brain revealed massive infarction, her fetus was not viable, she remained sedated and ventilated, and she passed away on post-operative Day 12, due to pneumonia and sepsis. Another patient, with a viable fetus, passed away on post-operative Day 1, due to low cardiac output. Acute malfunctioning MHV during pregnancy represents a real dilemma to patients and caregivers. It carries high fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in centers with limited resources. We believe that an alternative plane must be formulated for such patients to avoid devastating complications, including maternal and fetal deaths.

Acute arterial embolism of lower extremity after mitral valve replacement in a chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patient: a case report

Introduction Acute arterial embolism is a potential severe complication after cardiac surgery: it can be a clinical manifestation of early prosthetic valve (PV) thrombosis, whose incidence is higher in case of mechanical mitral valve or in presence of subtherapeutic anticoagulation, hemodynamic (atrial fibrillation) or haemostatic (obesity, anaemia, renal failure) predisposing factors (1). EACTA guidelines recommend to start anticoagulation during the first 24 hours after surgery, balancing the haemorragic risk(2). Although, in presence of specific comorbidities and risk factors, life-threatening thrombotic events can complicate postoperative period even following the international recommendations. Methods We report a 73-year-old man, suffering from chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (without treatment) and paroxysmal AF who received mitral mechanical valve replacement with a On-X 27/29 mm valve placed on anti-anatomic position because of a severe mitral insufficiency (with chordal systolic anterior movement) and single coronary artery by-pass graft. Unfractionated heparin (UFH) and acetylsalicylic acid were started 18 hours after surgery, in order to maintain an aPTT ratio of 1.5 to 2.5. On postoperative day (POD) 4 patient presented sudden pain and signs of acute hypoperfusion in left leg (distal femoral artery territory), requiring urgent surgery. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed but limited by artefacts and suboptimal acoustic windows. Considering the high risk surgery and the usefulness of early transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE), the patient received a general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation. Results Successful open embolectomy on the common femoral artery was performed; UFH perfusion was maintained during the whole duration of the procedure without haemorrhagic complication. Intraoperative TEO detected spontaneous echo contrast in left atrial appendage and reduced motion with impaired coaptation of the right leaflet (red arrows in figure); neither valvular-atrial-ventricular thrombus nor increased transvalvular gradient nor regurgitation were found. Postoperative TEO (POD 3) showed a PV with normal leaflets movement, without significative stenosis/regurgitation. Warfarin was started on POD 4 and heparin bridging was discontinued when INR target range was reached. Discussion In patient with multiple thrombotic risk factor (id malignancy, AF) adequate anticoagulation level can be difficult to reach: in these cases, serious thrombotic complications must be highly suspected even when guidelines have been followed. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial to guarantee a good prognosis. Early TOE and a “tailored” anticoagulation therapy play a fundamental role in the management of such complications.

Transcoronary mapping and chemical ablation of ventricular tachycardia in no-entry left ventricle

It is challenging to perform ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) from the left ventricle (LV) in patients without catheter access to the LV. A 50-year-old man was referred to our hospital for VT. He underwent mechanical aortic and mitral valve replacement for infective endocarditis and embolic myocardial infarction in the left ventricular inferior wall during a surgery. Anti-arrhythmia drugs (AADs) such as sotalol and bisoprolol were initiated and implantable cardioverter defibrillator was implanted. However, 2 months after discharge, he was admitted again for cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection and underwent complete CIED system removal. During hospitalization, VT easily occurred despite the use of AADs. We decided to perform transcoronary chemical ablation to treat this drug-refractory VT. A 0.014-inch guide-wire and a micro-catheter were advanced into coronary arteries. Pace map was conducted using a guide-wire and the micro artery branch feeding the VT exit area was detected. Ethanol infusion to this branch and the slightly basal side of the area eliminated the VT. We successfully treated VT in the no-entry LV by wire-guided mapping and ethanol ablation via coronary arteries. VT has not recurred during the follow-up period of 12 months.<Learning objective: It is challenging to perform ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation in patients with mechanical aortic and mitral valve replacement, because there is no catheter access to the left ventricle. Mapping via coronary arteries using guide-wires enables pace-mapping, finding VT exit sites, and identification of the appropriate branches for ethanol infusion. Therefore, transcoronary mapping and chemical ablation may be an alternative treatment for VT in a no entry left ventricle situation.>

Trends, characteristics, in-hospital outcomes and mortality in surgical mitral valve replacement among patients with and without COPD in Spain (2001-2015).

PurposeWe examined trends, characteristics and in-hospital outcomes in mechanical and bioprosthetic surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) among patients with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Spain from 2001 to 2015. We also identified factors associated with in-hospital mortality (IHM) in both groups of patients according to the implanted valve type.MethodsWe analyzed data from the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Database for patients aged 40 years or over. We selected admissions of patients whose medical procedures included SMVR. We grouped hospitalizations by COPD status.ResultsOver 43,024 patients identified, 83.63% underwent mechanical mitral valve replacement and 16.37% bioprosthetic valve (6.71% and 7.78% with COPD, respectively). The incidence of SMVR decreased for mechanical valves and increased for bioprosthetic valves over time in both groups of patients. The incidence of SMVR admissions was lower among COPD patients than in those without COPD, both for mechanical and bioprosthetic valves. IHM decreased significantly over time, regardless of the type of valve, in both groups of patients. COPD was associated with a significant increase in IHM, but only among patients who underwent bioprosthetic SMVR (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.01–1.73).ConclusionsThe incidence of mechanical SMVR decreased while that of bioprosthetic SMVR increased over time in both groups of patients. COPD patients were less surgically operated than non-COPD patients for both valve types. In COPD patients, bioprosthetic SMVR was proportionally more used than mechanical SMVR. Mortality decreased over time for both valve types in patients with and without COPD. COPD increased in-hospital mortality among patients undergoing a biological SMVR.