Mid-term Clinical Outcomes In Patients Research Articles

Evaluation of short and mid-term clinical outcomes in patients with aortic coarctation treated with self-expandable stents

The present study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of percutaneous treatment of aortic coarctation using self-expandable uncovered Nitinol stents. We conducted a retrospective clinical data review of all patients with aortic coarctation and treated with self-expandable uncovered Nitinol stents at our institution between 2009 and 2019. The gradient pressure across the coarctation site was measured using aortography. Follow-up echocardiography and computed tomography angiography were performed to assess possible stent complications. A total of 127 stents were successfully implanted in 125 patients (64.8% males) with a mean age of 35.36 ± 11.9 years. The gradient across the coarctation site decreased significantly from 67.48 ± 14.79 to 5.04 ± 3.01 mmHg (P < 0.001) after self-expandable stent implantation. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) decreased significantly from 175.53 ± 15.99 to 147.22 ± 12.83 mmHg (P < 0.001) after self-expandable stenting. There were no major technical or clinical complications, including balloon rupture, aneurysmal formation, infection, secondary stent migration, thrombosis, death during the procedure, and in-hospital mortality. On a mean follow-up of 48 ± 23.6 months (12–120 months), the gradient [from 59.43 ± 15.42 to 3.72 ± 1.38 mmHg (P < 0.001)] and SBP [from 175.53 ± 15.99 to 127.99 ± 7.82 mmHg (P < 0.001)] decreased significantly. There was no mortality, aneurysmal formation in the stent site, dislocation, or aortic re-stenosis requiring intervention during mid-term follow-up. Treatment of aortic coarctation using a self-expandable uncovered nitinol stent is safe and effective with promising mid-term outcomes.

Effect of hemoglobin A1c change on 24-month clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes after acute myocardial infarction.

The average glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) may not accurately reflect glycemic control status during the mid-term after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We aimed to evaluate changes in HbA1c and their effect on mid-term clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes and AMI. We enrolled patients with diabetes ( n = 967) who underwent HbA1c measurement in the Korean nationwide registry. These patients were categorized into three groups based on changes in HbA1c from index admission to the 1-year follow-up visit: a decrease in HbA1c > 1%, changes in HbA1c within 1%, and an increase in HbA1c > 1%. Clinical outcomes at 24 months were examined. The baseline HbA1c levels were 8.55 ± 0.85, 7.00 ± 0.98 and 7.07 ± 1.05 ( P = 0.001) and HbA1c levels after 1 year were 6.62 ± 0.73, 7.05 ± 0.98 and 9.26 ± 1.59 ( P = 0.001) for patients with 3 groups, respectively. Patients with a 1% decrease in HbA1c had significantly lower incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), cardiac death, and rehospitalization after 24 months than those with a 1% increase in HbA1c. However, in the Cox regression analysis, a >1% decrease in HbA1c change was not an independent factor for MACE, cardiac death, and rehospitalization. Our analysis indicates that an HbA1c decrease of >1% within the first 12 months was not an independent prognostic factor until the 24-month mark. Therefore, standard diabetic control is recommended for patients with diabetes and AMI for up to 2 years.

Satisfactory mid-term clinical outcomes of endoscopic tenotomy for iliopsoas tendinopathy following total hip arthroplasty.

To report 5-year outcomes of endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomy in patients with iliopsoas tendinopathy following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and determine whether clinical scores are associated with cup position. Patients who underwent endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomy for iliopsoas tendinopathy following THA (2014-2017) were contacted. Indications for endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomy after THA were groin pain during active hip flexion, exclusion of other causes of groin pain, and no pain relief after 6 months of conservative treatment. Pretenotomy cup inclination and anteversion were measured on radiographs; axial and sagittal cup overhang were measured on computed tomography (CT) scans. Oxford hip score (OHS), modified Harris hip score (mHHS), and groin pain were assessed. The initial cohort comprised 16 men (17 hips) and 31 women (32 hips), aged 60.7 ± 10.6 years. Cup inclination and anteversion were, respectively, 46.2 ± 6.2° and 14.6 ± 8.4°, while axial and sagittal cup overhang were, respectively, 4.4 ± 4.0 mm and 6.9 ± 4.5 mm. At ≥5 years follow-up, fourhips underwent cup and stem revision, twounderwent isolated cup revision and oneunderwent secondary iliopsoas tenotomy. OHS improved by 23 ± 10 and mHHS improved by 31 ± 16. Posttenotomy groin pain was slight in 20.0%, mild in 17.5% and moderate in 12.5%. Regression analyses revealed that net change in mHHS decreased with sagittal cup overhang (β = -3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -4.6 to -1.7; p < 0.001), but that there were no associations between cup position and net change in OHS. Endoscopic iliopsoas tenotomy provides good mid-term clinical outcomes in patients with iliopsoas tendinopathy following THA. Furthermore, improvements in mHHS were found to decrease with increasing sagittal cup overhang, in cases for which adequate preoperative imaging was available. Level IV.

The effect of the conduit size on middle-term outcomes in patients with extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection.

The 18- and 16-mm conduits in extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection (eTCPC) were reported to be optimal based on energy loss and flow stagnation at the relatively early phase. However, because the artificial conduit lacks growth potential, we have recently encountered some cases in which the conduit needs to be changed several years after eTCPC. These cases prompted us to reconsider the surgical strategy for eTCPC. We reviewed our 20-year single-centre experience with eTCPC patients (n = 256) to compare the 18-mm conduit (n = 195) and 16-mm conduit (n = 61) in terms of mortality and morbidity. The 16-mm conduit was used significantly more frequently in patients whose main chamber was right ventricle (P < 0.001). There was also a significant difference in preoperative inferior vena cava pressure (P = 0.008). There was a significant difference in the actuarial rate of freedom from late-occurring complications, including mortality, between the 2 groups (P = 0.003). There was a significant difference in the actuarial rate of reoperation-free survival (P = 0.042); however, there was no significant difference in resurgical intervention for the conduit (P = 0.333). In multivariate analysis, preoperative inferior vena cava pressure was an independent predictor for late-occurring complications (hazard ratio 1.19; P = 0.026). Conduit size (18 or 16 mm) itself was not an independent predictive factor for late-occurring complications (P = 0.690). The mid-term clinical outcomes in patients who underwent eTCPC were excellent with low mortality. Preoperative inferior vena cava pressure was the only predictive risk factor for postoperative morbidity, and the 16 mm conduit was not predictive thereof.

Preliminary Study of a Degenerated Tricuspid Bioprosthetic Valve Implanted via Transcatheter Valve-in-Valve Implantation Guided by 3-Dimensional Printing

BackgroundThe procedures of transcatheter tricuspid valve-in-valve (TTViV) replacement are challenging, and the clinical outcomes are still unclear. Our goal was to report the short- and mid-term clinical outcomes of patients who underwent a TTViV implantation guided by 3-dimensional (3D) printing. MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on 6 patients who had TTViV implantation from May 2021 to March 2022. The median age was 51 years (range: 18-71 years), and 50.0% of the patients were male. Imaging assessments and 3D printing were performed on all 6 patients before the procedures. The perioperative data were evaluated, and the patients were followed up. ResultsAmong the 6 patients, the etiologies of conditions affecting the tricuspid valves at baseline varied widely, including 1 case of Ebstein anomaly, 2 cases of infective endocarditis, 1 case of ventricular septal defect, and 2 cases of rheumatic heart disease. TTViV implantation was successfully performed in all 6 patients via the femoral vein approach; postoperative tricuspid regurgitation disappeared immediately, and the hemodynamic results were satisfactory. During the follow-up, all patients had significant improvement in symptoms and functional status. ConclusionsTTViV implantation for the treatment of degenerated tricuspid bioprostheses should be considered safe and effective. Multimodal imaging and 3D printing may provide effective guidance for conducting the procedure. Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Registration System (NCT02917980).

Reverse Wafer Procedure

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to present the results of an alternative technique for treating ulnar impaction syndrome, the “reverse wafer procedure,” and assess the mid-term clinical outcomes of patients treated with this technique. Methods A retrospective evaluation was conducted on 14 patients who underwent the reverse wafer procedure for ulnar impaction syndrome between 2013 and 2020. The inclusion criteria for the study were persistent ulnar-sided wrist pain, even after a minimum of 3 months of nonoperative treatment, the presence of a chondral lesion on the lunate, and an intact triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) based on arthroscopic evaluation. Postoperative clinical and subjective functional outcomes were assessed using measures such as wrist range of motion (ROM), grip strength, the Turkish version of the quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire (Quick DASH), and pain levels measured on a visual analog scale (VAS) and were compared with preoperative values. Patient satisfaction was also evaluated postoperatively. Results The mean follow-up period was 42.2 months (range: 24–68 months). Postoperatively, none of the patients experienced any restriction in ROM. Grip measurements significantly increased after the surgery (p = 0.003). Preoperatively, the patients had a grip strength of 41.14 kg (range 28–48 kg), which improved to 44 kg (range 30–52 kg) postoperatively. Postoperative VAS values and QDASH scores significantly decreased compared with the preoperative values (p &lt; 0.001, p = 0.001). The mean VAS score decreased from 6.1 (range 4–8) preoperatively to 0.9 (range 0–5) postoperatively. The mean Quick DASH score decreased from 49.44 (range 25–68.3) preoperatively to 10.13 (range 3.3–36) postoperatively. When asked about their satisfaction with the operation, 13 out of 14 patients reported being highly satisfied with the results. Conclusions The reverse wafer procedure presents an alternative treatment option for ulnar impaction syndrome in cases where the TFCC is intact. The mid-term results of this described technique are promising. However, further comparative studies with longer follow-ups are necessary to support these findings. Level of Evidence IV Therapeutic.

Short- to mid-term outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with ascending aorta dilation: a single-centre retrospective analysis

ObjectivesAscending aorta dilation (AAD) is frequently associated with aortic stenosis (AS). This study investigated the procedural and clinical outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with AAD for tricuspid AS.MethodsThis is a single-centre retrospective study that included patients with tricuspid AS and who underwent TAVR between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2021. A total of 239 patients met the inclusion criteria. The ascending aortic diameter was measured on computed tomography (CT) scans before TAVR, and AAD was identified as a maximal ascending aortic diameter of ≥ 40 mm. The outcomes were in line with the Valve Academy Research Consortium (VARC)-3 criteria.ResultsSelf-expandable (SE) valves were used in 88.7% of the total cohort (89.0% in the AAD group and 88.6% in the non-AAD group). Seventy-three patients (30.5%) were diagnosed with concomitant AAD (mean age 73.7 ± 7.3 years, 57.5% male). The median ascending aortic diameter was 36.0 mm (interquartile range [IQR]: 34.0–37.0 mm) in the non-AAD group and 44.0 mm (IQR: 42.0–46.0 mm) in the AAD group (p < 0.001). The baseline characteristics were comparable across the groups. No significant difference was observed in cumulative all-cause mortality at 30 days (2.4% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.609), 1 year (9.2% vs. 5.0%, p = 0.191), or 3 years (13.1% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.201) between the non-AAD and AAD groups. The device success rate was not different between the non-AAD and AAD groups (74.7% vs. 82.2%, p = 0.205). The multivariable analysis identified prior percutaneous coronary intervention, prior stroke, and length of intensive care unit as independent predictors of 3-year all-cause mortality among the total cohort.ConclusionAAD does not appear to be associated with the procedural and mid-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing TAVR.

Transcatheter valve-in-valve or valve-in-ring implantation with a novel balloon-expandable device in patients with bioprosthetic left side heart valves failure: 1-year follow-up from a multicenter experience

BackgroundTranscatheter aortic and mitral valve-in-valve (ViV) or valve-in-ring (ViR) implantation into failed bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs) or rings represents an appealing, less invasive, treatment option for patients at high surgical risk. Nowadays, few data have been reported on the use of balloon-expandable Myval (Meril Life Science, Vapi, India) transcatheter heart valve (THV) for the treatment of degenerated BHVs or rings. We aimed at evaluating the early and mid-term clinical outcomes of patients with left side heart bioprosthesis deterioration treated with transcatheter ViV/ViR implantation using Myval THV. Methods97 consecutive patients with symptomatic, severe aortic(n=33) and mitral(n=64) BHVs/ring dysfunction underwent transcatheter aortic ViV and mitral ViV/ViR implantation with Myval THV. ResultsTechnical success was achieved in 95 (98%) of the patients. Two cases of acute structural trans-catheter mitral ViV/ViR dysfunction requiring a second THV implantation were reported. At 30-day, a significant reduction in prosthetic trans-valvular pressure gradients and increase in valve areas were seen following both aortic and mitral ViV/ViR implantation. Overall survival at 15 months (IQR 8-21) was 92%. Patients undergoing mitral ViV/ViR had a relatively worse survival compared with those undergoing aortic ViV implantation (89% vs. 97% respectively; HR:2.7,CI:0.33-22.7;p=0.34). At longest follow-up available a significant improvement in NYHA functional class I and II was observed in patients with aortic and mitral ViV/ViR implantation(93.8% and 92.1%). ConclusionsDespite high surgical risk, transcatheter ViV/ViR implantation for failed left side heart bioprosthesis can be performed safely using Myval THV with a high success rate and low early and mid-term mortality and morbidity.

Midterm results of latent outflow tract obstruction in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after septal myectomy: A propensity score-matched study.

The midterm clinical outcomes of patients with latent left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction who undergo septal myectomy are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with latent LVOT obstruction who underwent septal myectomy. We studied 34 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and latent LVOT obstruction who underwent septal myectomy in 2011-2019 at Anzhen Hospital. After 2:1 propensity score matching, the study cohort included 34 patients with latent LVOT obstruction and 68 patients with resting LVOT obstruction. Compared to patients with resting LVOT obstruction, patients with latent LVOT obstruction had a thinner interventricular septal thickness (18.2 ± 3.2 mm vs. 20.4 ± 5.6 mm; p = .01), while the proportion of moderate or severe mitral regurgitation was significantly higher (26.5% vs. 5.9%; p = .003). Moreover, the proportion of mitral valve procedures (26.5% vs. 5.9%; p = .004) was significantly higher in patients with latent LVOT obstruction. However, there was no intergroup difference in cardiovascular death (5.9% vs. 1.5%, p = .26). Furthermore, the 5-year survival rates after sudden cardiac death (100.0% vs. 91.7%; p = .26) and cardiovascular death (95.5% vs. 89.0%; p = .32) were similar between HCM patients with latent versus resting LVOT obstruction. Midterm clinical outcomes were similar and excellent in a matched cohort of HCM patients with latent versus resting LVOT obstruction after septal myectomy.

Minimum 5-Year Outcomes of Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation with a Concomitant High Tibial Osteotomy for Spontaneous Osteonecrosis of the Knee with a Large Lesion.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mid-term clinical outcomes of osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) with concomitant high tibial osteotomy (HTO) in spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee (SONK) with a large lesion. A total of 48 knees of 48 consecutive patients with SONK (lesion size ≥4 cm2, no age criteria) who underwent opening wedge HTO and concomitant OAT were retrospectively investigated, and those who were followed up postoperatively for at least 5 years were included in this case series study. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using knee and function scores of Knee Society Score, radiographic outcomes were evaluated using the anatomical femorotibial angle (FTA), and these outcomes were compared between patients aged ≥70 years and <70 years. Of the 48 cases, a total of 43 cases were available for review at a minimum of 5 years, and 5 cases were excluded from the analysis. Overall, the mean knee score improved from preoperative 48.8 ± 13.3 to postoperative 87.9 ± 8.6 at 1 year (P < 0.05) and 85.0 ± 10.4 at final follow-up (P < 0.05 vs. preop., N.S. vs. 1 year). The mean function score also improved from preoperative 60.1 ± 10.9 to postoperative 87.3 ± 12.2 at 1 year (P < 0.05) and 84.2 ± 12.4 at final follow-up (P < 0.05 vs. preop., N.S. vs. 1 year). The mean standing FTA was corrected significantly from 181.1° ± 2.7° preoperatively to 169.7° ± 2.4° at 1 year (P < 0.05) and 169.4° ± 3.1° at final follow-up (P < 0.05 vs. preop., N.S. vs. 1 year). There were no significant differences in clinical and radiographic outcomes between patients aged ≥70 years and <70 years. There were 4 cases of lateral hinge fracture around the osteotomy site and 1 case of delayed union. None of the patients underwent revision surgery during the follow-up period (survival rate of 100%). Mid-term clinical outcomes of patients with SONK who underwent HTO and OAT with a relatively large lesion were good.

Mid-term outcomes of stentless Bio-Bentall vs. David Reimplantation for aortic root replacement.

To compare the early and midterm clinical outcomes of patients undergoing two different surgical procedures (stentless biological Bentall [SBB] vs. valve-sparing David Reimplantation [VSDR]) for aortic root dilatation, with or without concomitant aortic valve pathology. A population of 106 patients underwent aortic root replacement from 2004 to 2015 at our unit. Mean age at operation was 63.1 ± 10 years. The patients were retrospectively assigned to 2 groups according to surgical procedure. David operation was carried out in 52 patients (group A-VSDR) and stentless biological Bentall in 54 patients (group B-SBB). Preoperative characteristics were similar in the 2 cohorts, except for age and EuroSCORE. Mean follow-up time was 7.09 years (0.26-14.50 years), and 96% complete. Patients were evaluated and analyzed for intra-operative results and long-term clinical outcomes. Intraoperative mortality was 0% in both groups. Overall survival probability at 11 years was 91.8% in group A and 73.8% in group B (p = .004). Cardiac mortality at 11 years was similar in the 2 groups (p = .116). Freedom from structural valve deterioration at 11 years was 88.8% (VSDR) and 90.6% (SBB) [p = .689]. Freedom from reoperation at 11 years did not differ between the groups (83.6% VSDR vs. 98.5% SBB, p = .574). Freedom from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events at 11 years was 76.7% (VSDR) versus 80.1% (SBB) (p = .542). Mean gradient at last follow-up was lower in VSDR group (8.13 vs. 11.70 mmHg, p < .001). David reimplantation and stentless biological Bentall procedures achieve excellent and comparable results at midterm follow-up. David operations provide superior hemodynamic performance preserved over time and may be preferred in younger, active patients.

Predictors of failure of two-stage revision in periprosthetic knee infection: a retrospective cohort study with a minimum two-year follow-up.

Despite the standardization of two-stage knee revision protocols, a high percentage of failures still occurs. Identifying the predictors of failure is necessary to determine appropriate management and counsel for patients with a periprosthetic knee infection. This study aimed to identify risk factors predicting the failure, to describe implant survival, and to report the mid-term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing two-stage revision for periprosthetic knee infection. Data of patients who underwent two-stage knee revision from 2012 to 2016 were analyzed, and 108 patients were included. The mean age was 66.6 ± 9.2years. The mean follow-up was 52.9 ± 15.6months. Logistic regression was conducted to identify predictors of treatment failure. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to assess implant survival. Preoperative functional outcomes were compared to those registered at the final follow-up. Difficult-to-treat infections (OR = 4.2, 95% CI 1.2-14.5, p = 0.025), the number of previous surgeries (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.2-2.6, p = 0.005), and the level of tibial bone defect (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.7, p = 0.027) significantly predicted the failure of two-stage knee revision. Survivorship of implants was significantly lower for patients presenting these risk factors (p < 0.05). Mean Knee Society Score improved from 49.0 ± 12.0 to 80.2 ± 13.6 (p < 0.001). Mean Oxford Knee Score improved from 22.2 ± 4.9 to 36.1 ± 6.0 points (p < 0.001). Difficult-to-treat pathogens, the number of previous surgeries, and the level of tibial bone defect were independent risk factors of two-stage knee revision failure. Overall, the two-stage protocol provided a good survival rate and functional outcome.

Minimum 10-Year Clinical Outcomes After Arthroscopic 270° Labral Repair in Traumatic Shoulder Instability Involving Anterior, Inferior, and Posterior Labral Injury

Background: Current literature reports highly satisfactory short- and midterm clinical outcomes in patients with arthroscopic 270° labral tear repairs. However, data remain limited on long-term clinical outcomes and complication and redislocation rates in patients with traumatic shoulder instability involving anterior, inferior, and posterior labral injury. Purpose: To investigate, at a minimum follow-up of 10 years, the clinical outcomes, complications, and recurrent instability in patients with 270° labral tears involving the anterior, inferior, and posterior labrum treated with arthroscopic stabilization using suture anchors. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A retrospective outcomes study was completed for all patients with a minimum 10-year follow-up who underwent arthroscopic 270° labral tear repairs with suture anchors by a single surgeon. Outcome measures included pre- and postoperative Rowe score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Simple Shoulder Test, visual analog scale for pain, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE). Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) scores were collected postoperatively. Complication data were collected, including continued instability, subluxation or dislocation events, and revision surgery. Failure was defined as any cause of revision surgery. Results: In total, 21 patients (mean ± SD age, 27.1 ± 9.6 years) with 270° labral repairs were contacted at a minimum 10-year follow-up. All outcome measures showed statistically significant improvements as compared with those preoperatively: Rowe (53.9 ± 11.4 to 88.7 ± 8.9; P = .005), ASES (72.9 ± 18.4 to 91.8 ± 10.8; P = .004), Simple Shoulder Test (8.7 ± 2.4 to 11.2 ± 1.0; P = .013), visual analog scale (2.5 ± 2.6 to 0.5 ± 1.1; P = .037), and SANE (24.0 ± 15.2 to 91.5 ± 8.3; P = .043). The mean postoperative WOSI score at minimum follow-up was 256.3 ± 220.6. Three patients had postoperative complications, including a traumatic subluxation, continued instability, and a traumatic dislocation, 2 of which required revision surgery (14.2% failure rate). Conclusion: Arthroscopic repairs of 270° labral tears involving the anterior, inferior, and posterior labrum have highly satisfactory clinical outcomes at 10 years, with complication and redislocation rates similar to those reported at 2 years. This suggests that repairs of extensile labral tears are effective in restoring and maintaining mechanical stability of the glenohumeral joint in the long term.

Massive Rotator Cuff Tear Bridging Reconstruction Using Acellular Dermal Matrix: Mid-term Results (219)

Objectives:Management of massive rotator cuff tears remains a challenge despite development of different surgical techniques. Bridging reconstruction was developed to improve clinical outcomes and to avoid the morbidity associated with tendon transfers and arthroplasty. To date, there have been no studies assessing the mid-term clinical outcome for patients undergoing this procedure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the mid-term clinical outcomes of patients who underwent bridging reconstruction using acellular dermal matrix for large/massive rotator cuff tears (> 3 cm).Methods:A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients who underwent bridging reconstruction between 2010 and 2018 by one surgeon (IW). Patients with a minimum follow-up of two years were included. All patients completed self-reported questionnaires (Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) Index and the Disabilities of the Shoulder, Arm and Hand (DASH) score) pre-operatively and post-operatively at six months, one year and annually thereafter.Results:One hundred charts were reviewed, and 20 patients were excluded due to lack of pre- or post-operative outcome scores. This cohort of patients consisted of 80 patients mean age of 58.6 ± 9.1 years and an average follow-up of 5.1 ± 1.6 years. The mean pre- and post-operative WORC scores (± SD) were 61.4 ± 20.6 and 28.1 ± 25.5 (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean pre- and post-operative DASH scores were 52.2 ± 19.7 and 23.1 ± 22.4 (p < 0.001), respectively. There was an improvement in WORC and DASH over time with the most significant improvement during the first year post-operatively (Figure 1). Seventy-eight percent of patients met the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for WORC while 77% of patients met the MCID for DASH. Our results show significant mid-term clinical improvement in WORC and DASH scores that is similar to previously published data that showed significant improvements in other patient-reported outcome scores. We believe these positive outcomes to be a result of better force coupling within the shoulder as compared to other surgical treatments such as maximal repair, superior capsular reconstruction, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.Conclusions:Arthroscopic bridging reconstruction for the treatment of massive rotator cuff tears results in significant improvement of patient reported outcomes (as measured using the WORC and DASH scores) at a mean follow up of five years. This may suggest that bridging reconstruction is a good treatment alternative as compared to superior capsular reconstruction or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Longer follow-up with a prospective study design is necessary to determine the longevity of these outcomes.

Long-term Outcomes of Stentless Bio-bentall vs. David Reimplantation for Aortic Root Dilatation and Aortic Valve Pathology

Objective: To compare the early and mid-term clinical outcomes of patients undergoing two different surgical procedures (Bio-Bentall vs. David) for aortic root dilatation isolated or in association with aortic valve pathology. Methods: A population of 108 patients underwent aortic root replacement from 2004 to 2015 at our unit. Mean age at operation was 63 ± 99.9 years. The patients were retrospectively assigned to two groups, according to surgical procedure. David Reimplantation Operation was carried out in 52 patients (Group A), Stentless Biological Bentall in 56 patients (Group B). Pre-operative characteristics were similar in the two cohorts except for age and Euroscore. Mean follow-up time was 7.09 years (0.26-14.50 years) and it was 100% complete. Patients were evaluated and analyzed for perioperative results and long-term clinical outcomes. Results: Perioperative mortality was 0% in group A, 3.64% in group B (p = 0.26). Overall survival probability at 11 years was 91.8% in group A, 74.9% in group B (p = 0.0057). Cardiac mortality at 11 years was similar in the two groups (p = 0.129). Incidence of structural valve deterioration at 11 years was 88.8% in group A and 91.6% in group B (p = 0.776). Rate of reoperation at 11 years did not differ between the groups (88% in group A vs 97.9% in group B - p = 0.851). Occurrence of MACCE at 11 years was 76.7% in group A, 81.3% in group B (p = 0.634%). Mean gradient at last follow-up was lower in group A (8.13 mmHg vs. 11.70 mmHg - p < 0.001) Conclusions: David and Bio-Bentall procedures achieve excellent and comparable results at intermediate-time follow-up. David operation provides superior hemodynamic performances preserved over time, and maybe preferred in younger, active patients.

Use of edge-to-edge percutaneous mitral valve repair for severe mitral regurgitation in cardiogenic shock: A multicenter observational experience (MITRA-SHOCK study).

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of edge-to-edge PMVR on short and mid-term clinical outcomes in patients with CS and severe MR. Severe mitral regurgitation (MR) in the setting of cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with three times higher risk of 1-year mortality. In refractory CS, edge-to-edge percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) can be a potential therapeutic option. We retrospectively included consecutive patients with refractory CS and concomitant severe MR treated with MitraClip® system. CS was defined according to the criteria used in the SHOCK trial and procedural success according to Mitral Valve Academic Research Consortium (MVARC) criteria. The 30-day and 6-month mortality were the primary and secondary endpoints respectively. Thirty-one patients (median age 73 years [interquartile range, IQR 66-78], 25.8% female), STS mortality score 37.9 [IQR 30.4-42.4]), with CS and concomitant severe MR treated with edge-to-edge PMVR were retrospectively enrolled. Procedural success was 87.1%. Thirty-day and 6-month survival rates were 78.4 and 45.2% respectively. Univariate Cox Regression Model analysis showed that procedural success was a predictor of both 30-day (HR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.55, p < .01) and 6-month survival (HR = 0.22, 95% CI 0.06-0.84, p = .027). Edge-to-edge PMVR in patients with CS and concomitant severe MR was associated with good procedural safety and success with acceptable short and mid-term survival rates. It could be considered a bailout option in this setting of patients.

Association of Baseline Anemia with Mid-Term Clinical Outcomes in Patients Who Underwent Trans-Radial Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Radial access is recommended for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), because it has fewer bleeding complications than trans-femoral PCI. However, even if trans-radial PCI is chosen, patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) presenting with anemia on admission might have poor clinical outcomes. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate whether anemia on admission was associated with mid-term clinical outcomes in patients who underwent trans-radial primary PCI. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, recurrent acute myocardial infarction, and readmission for heart failure. A total of 288 consecutive patients with STEMI who underwent trans-radial primary PCI were divided into an anemia group (n = 79) and a non-anemia group (n = 209). The median follow-up duration was 301 days. The anemia group was significantly older than the non-anemia group (77.3 ± 11.9 versus 64.4 ± 12.7 years, respectively; P < 0.001). There were significantly more females in the anemia group than in the non-anemia group (36.7% versus 14.4%, respectively; P < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the composite outcome-free survival was significantly worse in the anemia group than in the non-anemia group (P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox hazard model analysis revealed that hemoglobin levels on admission were significantly associated with the composite outcome (per 1 g/dL increase: hazard ratio 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.66-0.88, P < 0.001) after controlling for confounding factors. In conclusion, baseline anemia was significantly associated with poor clinical outcomes. Patients with STEMI presenting with anemia should be managed carefully, even if trans-radial primary PCI is chosen.

Association between the Door-to-balloon Time and Mid-term Clinical Outcomes in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

Objective In primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), the door-to-balloon time (DTBT) is known to be associated with in-hospital death in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, little is known regarding the association between the DTBT and the mid-term clinical outcomes in patients with STEMI. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the DTBT and mid-term all-cause death. Methods The study population included 309 STEMI patients, who were divided into the short DTBT (DTBT<60 minutes, n=103), intermediate DTBT (DTBT 60-120 minutes, n=174) and long DTBT (DTBT >120 minutes, n=32) groups. The median follow-up period was 287 days (interquartile range: 182-624 days). Results The incidence of all-cause death in the long DTBT group was significantly higher in comparison to the other groups (p<0.001). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, although a short DTBT [vs. intermediate DTBT: hazard ratio (HR) 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39-2.55, p=0.99] was not associated with all-cause death, a long DTBT (vs. intermediate DTBT: HR 2.80, 95% CI 1.26-6.17, p=0.011) was significantly associated with all-cause death, after controlling for confounding factors such as Killip class 4, an impaired renal function, and the number of diseased vessels. Conclusion The DTBT was significantly associated with the incidence of mid-term all-cause death. Our results support the strong adherence to the DTBT in patients with STEMI.

The clinical outcomes of cementless unicompartmental knee replacement in patients with reduced bone mineral density

BackgroundOsteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions characterised by reduced bone mineral density (BMD). There is concern that bone with reduced BMD may not provide sufficient fixation for cementless components which primarily rely on the quality of surrounding bone. The aim of our study was to report the midterm clinical outcomes of patients with reduced BMD undergoing cementless unicompartmental knee replacements (UKR). Our hypothesis was that there would be no difference in outcome between patients with normal bone and those with reduced BMD.MethodsFrom a prospective cohort of 70 patients undergoing cementless UKR surgery, patients were categorised into normal (n = 20), osteopenic (n = 38) and osteoporotic groups (n = 12) based on their central dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans according to the World Health Organization criteria. Patients were followed up by independent research physiotherapists and outcome scores; Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Tegner score, American Knee Society Score Functional (AKSS-F) and Objective (AKSS-O) were recorded preoperatively and at a mean of 4 years postoperatively. The prevalence of reoperations, revisions and mortality was also recorded at a mean of 5 years postoperatively.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the midterm postoperative OKS (P = 0.83), Tegner score (P = 0.17) and AKSS-O (P = 0.67). However, the AKSS-F was significantly higher (P = 0.04) in normal (90, IQR 37.5) compared to osteoporotic (65, IQR 35) groups. There were no significant differences (P = 0.82) between normal and osteopenic bone (80, IQR 35). The revision prevalence was 5%, 2.6% and 0% in the normal, osteopenic and osteoporotic groups respectively. The reoperation prevalence was 5%, 7.9% and 0% respectively. There were no deaths in any group related to the implant.ConclusionsWe found that patients with reduced BMD could safely undergo cementless UKR surgery and have similar clinical outcomes to those with normal BMD. However, larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm our findings and ensure that cementless fixation is safe in patients with reduced BMD.

Minimum Five-year Outcomes and Clinical Survivorship for Arthroscopic Transosseous-equivalent Double-row Rotator Cuff Repair.

Despite the widespread use of arthroscopic double-row transosseous-equivalent (TOE) rotator cuff repair (RCR) techniques, midterm outcome data are limited. The purpose of this article was to assess midterm clinical outcomes of patients following arthroscopic TOE RCR using either a knotless tape bridge (TB) repair or knotted suture bridge (SB) repair technique. We hypothesized that there would be significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes with TOE RCR that would be durable over time. We also hypothesized that the knotless TB technique would yield equivalent clinical results to the knotted SB technique, but that there would be differences in retear types between the two TOE techniques. Patients included were a minimum of 5 years from an index arthroscopic double-row TOE repair using either a knotless TB or knotted SB technique for one, two, or three tendon full-thickness rotator cuff tears involving the supraspinatus tendon. Preoperative and postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, Short-Form 12 Physical Component Summary, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and satisfaction scores were collected. Scores were also stratified and compared based on primary and revision repair, tear location, and tear chronicity. Outcomes between techniques were contrasted, and survivorship analysis was conducted, with failure defined as progression to revision surgery. One-hundred ninety-two shoulders were included with a mean follow-up of 6.6 years (range, 5.0 to 11.0 years). Fifteen shoulders (7.8%) underwent revision cuff repair. All scores improved significantly for TB repair (P < 0.001). For SB repair, all scores improved, but only American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons and Short-Form 12 Physical Component Summary scores (P < 0.05) demonstrated statistical significance. No statistically significant differences were found between the repair techniques when stratified by primary and revision repairs, tear location, or chronicity. Postoperative clinical survivorship was 96.6% and 93.6% for knotted SB repairs and 96.7% and 93.9% for knotless TB repairs at 2 and 5 years, respectively. TOE RCR results in significant clinical improvement and excellent survivorship at a minimum of 5 years of follow-up, using either knotted SB or knotless TB repair techniques in primary and revision cases and in small and large tears. Equivalent results were obtained with both TOE techniques. Patients undergoing repair with a TOE showed significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes that were durable at a minimum of 5 years postoperatively.