Model For End-stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio Score Research Articles

The Impact of Pre-Heart Transplantation Blood Transfusion Varies Based on Recipient MELD-XI Score.

Prior studies reveal adverse effects of transfusion on cardiac surgery, but little is known of transfusion impact on heart transplantation. First-time, single-organ adult heart transplant recipients between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2020, were included, stratified above or below a model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score of 9.4, and propensity score matched to their nearest neighbor. A 90 day landmark analysis within each cohort was also performed. Unadjusted analysis showed transfusion recipients, MELD-XI ≥9.4, were more likely to experience post-heart transplantation mortality (Hazard Ratio (HR), 1.352 [95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.239-1.477], p < 0.001), persisting after adjustment for potential confounders (adjusted HR, 1.211 [95% CI, 1.100-1.335], p < 0.001) and after propensity-score matching (HR, 1.174 [95% CI, 1.045-1.319], p = 0.007). Post-transplant length of stay was longer (25.9 vs. 23.2 days, p < 0.001). Post-transplant dialysis was more common (18.7 vs. 15.9%, p = 0.009). There was no survival difference on 90 day landmarked analysis (p = 0.108). With MELD-XI <9.4, there was slight survival detriment among transfusion recipients on univariable analysis (HR, 1.111 [95% CI, 1.001-1.234], p = 0.049) but not on multivariable analysis (adjusted HR, 1.061 [95% CI, 0.952-1.181], p = 0.285). There was similar survival after propensity-score matching (HR, 1.032 [95% CI, 0.903-1.180], p = 0.642) and on landmark analysis (p = 0.581). Ultimately, transfusion was associated with worse post-heart transplantation outcomes among recipients with a MELD-XI ≥9.4.

Utilization of hepatitis C virus infected donors in heart transplant recipients with elevated MELD-XI score.

The advent of direct-acting antivirals has helped to increase the safe utilization of organs from hepatitis C virus positive (HCV+) donors. However, the outcomes of heart transplantation (HT) using an HCV+ donor are unclear in recipients with underlying liver disease represented by an elevated model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI). The United Network of Organ Sharing database was queried from Jan 2016 to Dec 2021. Post-transplant outcomes stratified by recipient MELD-XI score (low<10.37, medium, 10.38-13.39, and high>13.4) was compared between patients with HT from HCV+ (N=792) and patients with HT from HCV-negative donors (N=15,266). The median MELD-XI score was comparable (HCV+, 12.1, vs. HCV-negative, 11.8, p=.37). In the HCV+ group, donors were older (33vs. 31 years, p<.001). Ischemic time of donor hearts (3.48vs. 3.28h, p<.001) and travel distance (250vs. 157 miles, p<.001) were longer in HCV+ group. In the Kaplan Meier analysis with a median follow-up of 750 days, survival was comparable between the two groups (2-year survival, MELD-XI Low: HCV+, 92.4±3.6% vs. HCV-negative, 91.1±.8%, p=.83, Medium: HCV+ 89.2±4.3% vs. HCV-negative, 88.2±1.0%, p=.68, and High: HCV+, 84.9±4.5% vs. HCV-negative, 84.6±1.1%, p=.75) In multivariate Cox hazard models, HCV donors were not associated with mortality in each MELD-XI subgroup (Low: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 1.02, p=.94; Medium: aHR, .95, p=.81; and High: aHR, .93, p=.68). Utilization of HCV+ hearts was not associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in recipients with an elevated MELD- XI score.

Prognostic impact of the coexistence of hepato-renal dysfunction and frailty in patients with heart failure

BackgroundComplex multi-organ interactions such as coexistence of hepato-renal dysfunction in heart failure (HF) adversely affects patient prognosis. However, the association between liver/kidney dysfunction and frailty and effects of their coexistence on HF prognosis remain unclear. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 922 patients with HF (median age, 72 years; interquartile range: 62–79 years). All patients underwent hepato-renal function testing using the model for end-stage liver disease, excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score and frailty score. Frailty was measured using a composite of four markers: handgrip strength, gait speed, serum albumin, and activities of daily living status, combined into a total frailty score (range 0–12). Patients were assigned to a frailty score <5 (without frailty) or ≥5 (frailty) group. The multivariable logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between MELD-XI score and frailty; the prognostic value of high MELD-XI score and frailty coexistence was investigated. The endpoint was all-cause mortality. ResultsAfter adjusting for covariates and dividing by the median MELD-XI score, the high MELD-XI score group [odds ratio: 1.663, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.200–2.304, p = 0.002] was significantly associated with frailty, compared with the low MELD-XI score group. One hundred and fifty deaths occurred during follow-up (median, 2.13 years; interquartile range, 0.93–4.09 years). Patients in the high MELD-XI score/frailty group had a significantly higher mortality risk, even after adjusting for HF severity (hazard ratio: 4.326, 95 % CI: 2.527–7.403, p < 0.001). ConclusionsHepato-renal dysfunction is associated with frailty in patients with HF, which affects patient prognosis. Brief summaryThis study showed that hepato-renal dysfunction in patients with HF, as assessed by the model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score, is associated with frailty, even after adjusting for factors involved in the frailty or severity of HF. Additionally, high MELD-XI score combined with frailty is associated with a poorer prognosis. These results suggest that hepato-renal dysfunction and frailty can be used for risk stratification in patients with HF.

Impact of Preoperative Liver Function on Short-Term HeartMate 3 Outcomes

Although left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy is associated with improved survival, the impact of preoperative liver function on short-term outcomes is unclear. We conducted a retrospective review of all primary HeartMate 3 LVAD implants at a single center. Composite metrics of hepatic function including the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), the MELD with sodium, and the MELD excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) were evaluated. Receiver operator characteristic curves were compared to determine which equation was most predictive of 1-year survival. Primary stratification was based on MELD-XI tertiles. Secondary stratification was based on hypoalbuminemia (<3.0 mg/100 ml). A total of 94 patients underwent primary LVAD implantation from 2017 to 2022. MELD-XI and hypoalbuminemia were most associated with 1-year outcomes. When stratified by MELD tertiles, higher MELD was strongly associated with decreased 30 days (100.00% vs 100.00% vs 90.32%, p=0.04), 1-year (93.00% vs 93.32% vs 69.79%, p=0.01), and 2-year survival (93.00% vs 83.21% vs 69.79%, p=0.04). In addition, while hypoalbuminemia was associated with similar 30 days (97.87% vs 95.74%, p=0.56) survival, it was associated with a significant decrease in 1-year (92.93% vs 77.92%, p=0.03) and 2-year survival (92.93% vs 68.89%, p <0.01). These results persisted on multivariable analysis for both MELD-XI score (p=0.04) and hypoalbuminemia (p=0.04). In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate that preoperative MELD-XI score and serum albumin levels are associated with short-term HeartMate 3 outcomes.

Prognostic importance of improving hepatorenal function during hospitalization in acute decompensated heart failure.

The Model for End-stage Liver Disease eXcluding International normalized ratio (MELD-XI) is an established scoring system that reflects hepatorenal function. However, little is known about the prognostic value of changes in MELD-XI score during hospitalization in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). We prospectively analysed 536 patients admitted for ADHF between January 2018 and December 2019. In the MELD-XI, 9.44 is the lowest possible score and considered to be normal, and values above 9.44 are classified as high. We calculated MELD-XI scores at admission and discharge and used them to divide patients into four groups depending on whether the score was high (>9.44) or normal (9.44) at each time point as follows: normal score at both measurements (persistently normal group, n=99), high score at admission and normal score at discharge (high-to-normal group, n=108), normal score at admission and high score at discharge (normal-to-high group, n=24), and high score at both measurements (persistently high group, n=305). The persistently high group had higher blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels at both admission and discharge and significantly higher left ventricular end-diastolic, left atrial, right ventricular end-diastolic, and maximal inferior vena cava diameters at discharge. During the median follow-up period of 369days (Q1, Q3: 97, 576), 231 (43.1%) patients reached the primary endpoint (a composite of all-cause death or re-hospitalization for heart failure). The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significantly higher composite event rate in the persistently high group than in the persistently normal and high-to-normal groups (log-rank test, P<0.001). Compared with the persistently high group, the high-to-normal group remained significantly associated with lower composite event risk after multivariate adjustment (hazard ratio, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.12-0.69; P=0.004). Our study suggests that changes in hepatorenal function during hospitalization are associated with the severity of heart failure and systemic congestion and that they provide useful information for predicting clinical outcomes in patients with ADHF.

Prognostic value of modified model for end-stage liver disease scores in patients with significant tricuspid regurgitation.

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) may cause damage to liver and kidney function. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) and the model with albumin replacing international normalized ratio (MELD-Albumin) scores, which include both liver and kidney function indexes, may predict mortality in patients with TR. The study aimed to analyse the prognostic value of MELD-XI and MELD-Albumin scores in patients with significant TR. A total of 1825 patients with at least moderate pure native TR from the China Valvular Heart Disease study between April and June 2018, were included in this analysis. The primary outcome was all-cause death within 2 years. Of 1825 patients, 165 (9.0%) died during follow-up. Restricted cubic splines revealed that hazard ratio for death increased monotonically with greater modified MELD scores. The MELD-XI and MELD-Albumin scores, as continuous variables or categorized using thresholds determined by maximally selected rank statistics, were independently associated with 2-year mortality (all adjusted P<0.001). Both scores provided incremental value over prognostic model without hepatorenal indexes {MELD-XI score: net reclassification index [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.237 (0.138-0.323)]; MELD-Albumin score: net reclassification index (95% CI), 0.220 (0.122-0.302)}. Results were similar in clinically meaningful subgroups, including but not limited to patients under medical treatment and those with normal left ventricular ejection fraction. Models including modified MELD scores were established for prognostic evaluation of significant TR. Both MELD-XI and MELD-Albumin scores provided incremental prognostic information and could play important roles in risk assessment in patients with significant TR.

Prognostic impact of hepatorenal function in patients undergoing transcatheter tricuspid valve repair

Hepatorenal dysfunction is a strong risk factor in patients with heart failure (HF). We investigated the prognostic significance of hepatorenal dysfunction in 172 consecutive patients undergoing transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR). The model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score was calculated as 5.11 × ln(serum total bilirubin [mg/dl]) + 11.76 × ln(serum creatinine [mg/dl]) + 9.44. Patients were stratified into two groups: high (≥ 14) or low (< 14) MELD-XI score, according to the best cut-off value to predict a one-year composite outcome consisting of all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization. Compared to patients with low MELD-XI score (n = 121), patients with high MELD-XI score (n = 51) had a higher incidence of the composite outcome (47.1% vs. 17.4%; p < 0.0001). In the multivariable analysis, the MELD-XI score was an independent predictor of the composite outcome (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.19; p = 0.0003). In addition, post-procedural TR < 3 + after TTVR was independently associated with a reduction in MELD-XI score six months after TTVR (adjusted odds ratio: 3.37; 95% CI 1.09–10.40; p = 0.03). Thus, the MELD-XI score was associated with the risk of one-year composite outcome, consisting of mortality and HF hospitalization, after TTVR and may help the risk stratification in patients undergoing TTVR.

Prognostic value of hepatorenal function following transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair

BackgroundHepatorenal dysfunction is a strong prognostic predictor in patients with heart failure. However, the prognostic impact of the hepatorenal dysfunction in patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) has not been well studied.MethodsIn consecutive patients who underwent edge-to-edge TMVR at three German centers, the model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score was calculated as 5.11 × ln [serum total bilirubin (mg/dl)] + 11.76 × ln [serum creatinine (mg/dl)] + 9.44. Patients were stratified into high (> 11) or low (≤ 11) MELD-XI score of which an incidence of the composite outcome, consisting of all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization, within 2 years after TMVR was assessed.ResultsOf the 881 patients, the mean MELD-XI score was 11.0 ± 5.9, and 415 patients (47.1%) had high MELD-XI score. The MELD-XI score was correlated with male, effective regurgitant orifice area, and tricuspid regurgitation severity and inversely related to left ventricular ejection fraction. Patients with high MELD-XI score had a higher incidence of the composite outcome than those with low MELD-XI score (47.7% vs. 29.8%; p < 0.0001), and in multivariable analysis, the high MELD-XI score was an independent predictor of the composite outcome [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.34; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–1.77; p = 0.04). Additionally, the MELD-XI score as a continuous variable was also an independent predictor (adjusted HR 1.02; 95% CI 1.00–1.05; p = 0.048).ConclusionsThe MELD-XI score was associated with clinical outcomes within 2 years after TMVR and can be a useful risk-stratification tool in patients undergoing TMVR.

Associations of severity of liver damages with physical function and prognosis in patients with heart failure

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Heart failure (HF) and liver dysfunction often coexist because of complex cardiohepatic interactions, which adversely affects prognosis. However, the association between liver dysfunction and physical dysfunction, and between coexistence of both and prognosis in HF patients remains unclear. Purpose We evaluated the associations of severity of liver damage and physical function and prognosis in patients with HF. Methods The study population consisted of 895 patients with HF (mean age, 69.4 ± 14.2 years) who underwent liver function test using model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score and physical function test (grip strength, leg strength, gait speed, and 6-minute walking distance [6MWD]). The associations between MELD-XI score and physical function were assessed by multivariate linear regression model analysis. Moreover, we investigated the prognostic value of coexistence of liver dysfunction and physical dysfunction. The endpoint was all-cause mortality. Results After adjusting for covariates, MELD-XI score was independently associated with lower grip strength, leg strength, gait speed, and 6MWD (P &amp;lt; 0.001). In addition, hierarchical multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that adding MELD-XI scores or BNP explained additional variance in the physical function measures. The MELD-XI score added to the clinical model was significantly more predictive of physical function (grip strength, change in F: 27.105, P &amp;lt; 0.001; leg strength, change in F: 33.980, P &amp;lt; 0.001; gait speed, change in F: 22.826, P &amp;lt; 0.001; 6MWD, change in F: 59.193, P &amp;lt; 0.001) than BNP added to the clinical model. Eighty-six deaths occurred over a median follow-up period of 1.67 years (interquartile range: 0.62 – 3.04). Patients with high MELD-XI score and reduced physical function were found to have significantly higher mortality risk even after adjusting for several covariates (grip strength, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.80 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.04 – 7.08], P &amp;lt; 0.001; leg strength, HR = 4.65 [95% CI = 2.47 - 8.75], P &amp;lt; 0.001 and gait speed, HR = 2.49 [95% CI = 1.43 - 4.33], P = 0.001; 6MWD, HR = 5.48 [95% CI = 2.88 - 10.41], P &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions Liver dysfunction was correlated with reduced physical function. Moreover, the coexistence of lower physical function and liver dysfunction considerably affected prognosis in patients with HF. Abstract Figure. Kaplan–Meier survival curves

Evaluation of Laboratory Predictors for In-Hospital Mortality in Infective Endocarditis and Negative Blood Culture Pattern Characteristics.

Objective: This study aimed to identify possible differences between blood culture-negative and blood culture-positive groups of infective endocarditis (IE), and explore the associations between biological parameters and in-hospital mortality. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients hospitalized for IE between 2007 and 2017. Epidemiological, clinical and paraclinical characteristics, by blood culture-negative and positive groups, were collected. The best predictors of in-hospital mortality based on the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and AUC (area under the curve) results were identified. Results: A total of 126 IE patients were included, 54% with negative blood cultures at admission. Overall, the in-hospital mortality was 28.6%, higher in the blood culture-negative than positive group (17.5% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.207). A significant increase in the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio (MELD-XI) score was observed in the blood culture-negative group (p = 0.004), but no baseline characteristics differed between the groups. The best laboratory predictors of in-hospital death in the total study group were the neutrophil count (AUC = 0.824), white blood cell count (AUC = 0.724) and MELD-XI score (AUC = 0.700). Conclusion: Classic laboratory parameters, such as the white blood cell count and neutrophil count, were associated with in-hospital mortality in infective endocarditis. In addition, MELD-XI was a good predictor of in-hospital death.

Risk factors of acute renal injury and in-hospital mortality in adult patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock requiring veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: utility of MELD-XI score.

The suitability of model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score to predict the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and in-hospital mortality in adult patients with postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) remains uncertain. This study was performed to explore whether the MELD-XI score has the association with the incidence of AKI and in-hospital mortality in these patients. Adult patients with PCS requiring VA ECMO from January 2012 to December 2017 were enrolled and first classified into AKI group (n = 151) versus no-AKI group (n = 132), then classified into survival group (n = 143) versus no-survival group (n = 140). Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors independently associated with AKI and mortality. Baseline data were defined as the first measurement available. Of 283 patients, the incidence of AKI was 53.36%. The in-hospital mortality rates were 63.58% and 33.33% in patients with and without AKI (p < 0.0001). Baseline MELD-XI score, baseline serum total bilirubin (T-Bil), baseline blood urea nitrogen (BUN), baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and lactate level at ECMO initiation were shown to be associated with the AKI. Vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and SOFA score at ECMO initiation as well as renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) were shown to be associated with in-hospital mortality. The baseline MELD-XI score, baseline BUN, baseline T-Bil, baseline LVEF, SOFA score and lactate at the initiation of ECMO were associated with AKI. AKI, SOFA score, and VIS at the initiation of ECMO were associated with in-hospital mortality, whereas MELD-XI score was not found to be associated with in-hospital mortality. A specific MELD-XI score as a threshold, as well as its sensitivity and specificity, needs to be confirmed in further studies.

Prognostic value of cardio-hepatic-skeletal muscle syndrome in patients with heart failure

Although heart failure (HF) and liver dysfunction often coexist because of complex cardiohepatic interactions, the association between liver dysfunction and physical dysfunction, and between coexistence of both and prognosis in HF patients remains unclear. We reviewed 895 patients with HF (mean age, 69.4 ± 14.2 years) who underwent liver function test using model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score and physical function test (grip strength, leg strength, gait speed, and 6-min walking distance [6MWD]). In the multiple regression analysis, MELD-XI score was independently associated with lower grip strength, leg strength, gait speed, and 6MWD (all P < 0.001). One hundred thirty deaths occurred over a median follow-up period of 1.67 years (interquartile range: 0.62–3.04). For all-cause mortality, patients with high MELD-XI scores and reduced physical functions were found to have a significantly higher mortality risk even after adjusting for several covariates (grip strength, hazard ratio [HR]: 3.80, P < 0.001; leg strength, HR: 4.65, P < 0.001; gait speed, HR: 2.49, P = 0.001, and 6MWD, HR: 5.48, P < 0.001). Liver dysfunction was correlated with reduced physical function. Moreover, the coexistence of lower physical function and liver dysfunction considerably affected prognosis in patients with HF.

Model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score independently predicts in-hospital cardiac and 1-year all-cause mortality in noncardiac surgery

Objective: Cardiac adverse events are one of the most-feared complications among patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. Model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score has been shown to carry prognostic implications for patients with various cardiac conditions, but it has not been used for patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. We aimed to determine the role of MELD-XI score for the prediction of mortality in high-risk noncardiac surgical candidates. Materials and Methods: Eighty-four patients with high-risk cardiac conditions undergoing elective or urgent noncardiac surgery were reviewed for in-hospital cardiac and 1-year all-cause mortality. MELD-XI score was compared between the surviving and deceased patients. It was correlated with both mortality rates; its predictive power for mortality prediction was tested. Results: The median age was 81 (interquartile range 18) years, and 41 (48.8%) patients were male. All patients had at least one high-risk cardiac condition. Forty patients experienced a cardiac adverse event. Sixteen (19%) patients died at hospital and 40 (47.6%) patients died by 1 year, and both groups had significantly higher MELD-XI scores than survivors (12.23 [6.53] vs. 9.66 [3.81]; P = 0.001 and 10.80 [6.31] vs. 9.70 [3.70]; P = 0.037, respectively). MELD-XI score independently predicted in-hospital cardiac mortality (OR: 1.254 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.028–1.530]; P 8.87 was associated with a significantly worse 1-year survival (log rank test, P

Prognostic value of MELD-XI score in patients referring to the emergency department with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction

Objective: We aimed to evaluate Model for End-stage Liver Disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score for prediction of 30-day in-hospital mortality in a cohort of patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction. Methods: The medical records of a total of 256 patients admitted with ST elevation myocardial infarction to the emergency department between January 2015 and January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 111 patients were found eligible for the study. MELD-XI score was analyzed and compared on the basis of survival status. Results: A total of 111 patients with a mean age of 62.5 ± 2.55 years were included in the study. In total, 81% (n = 90) of the patients were male and 19% (n = 21) were female. The mean MELD-XI score of the patients was 10.1 ± 1.1. A total of 12 patients (12.9%) died within 30 days after hospitalization. The median MELD-XI score of the patients who died in the hospital was significantly higher than the patients survived (11.0 (10.5–11.6) vs 9.5 (9.4–13.8); p &lt; 0.01). However, Gensini score was not significantly different between the surviving and deceased patients (p &gt; 0.05). MELD-XI score was significantly correlated to left ventricular ejection fraction (r = −232, p &lt; 0.01), and both parameters and age were significant independent predictors of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio: 1.73, 95% confidence interval: 1.25–2.39, p &lt; 0.05; odds ratio: 0.89, 95% confidence interval: 0.81–0.99, p &lt; 0.05; and odds ratio: 1.07, 95% confidence interval: 0.99–1.15, p &lt; 0.05, respectively). A MELD-XI cut-off point of 10 had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 78.8% for in-hospital mortality (area under receiver operating characteristics curve: 0.92, 95% confidence interval: 0.87–0.97, p &lt; 0.05). A survival analysis based on a MELD-XI threshold of 10 revealed that the patients in the high-MELD-XI group had a significantly worse in-hospital survival (log rank test p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: MELD-XI score is a useful tool for in-hospital mortality prediction in patients referring to emergency medicine with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction.

Risk prediction in infective endocarditis by modified MELD-XI score.

The suitability of the model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score to predict adverse outcomes in infective endocarditis (IE) patients remains uncertain. This study was performed to explore the prognostic value of the MELD-XI score and modified MELD-XI score for patients with IE. A total of 858 patients with IE were consecutively enrolled and classified into two groups: MELD-XI ≤ 10 (n = 588) and MELD-XI > 10 (n = 270). Multivariate analysis was performed to determine risk factors independent of MELD-XI score. Higher MELD-XI score was associated with higher in-hospital mortality (15.6 vs. 4.8%, p < 0.001) and major adverse clinical events (33.3 vs. 18.4%, p < 0.001). MELD-XI score was an independent predictor of in-hospital death (odds ratio [OR] = 1.06, 95% CI, 1.02-1.10, p = 0.005). Based on a multivariate analysis, NYHA class III or IV (3 points), C-reactive protein > 9.5mg/L (4 points), and non-surgical treatment (6 points) were added to MELD-XI score. Modified MELD-XI score produced higher predictive power than previous (AUC 0.823 vs. 0.701, p < 0.001). The cumulative incidence of long-term mortality (median 29months) was significantly higher in patients with modified MELD-XI score > 13 than those without (log-rank = 25.30, p < 0.001). Modified MELD-XI score was independently associated with long-term mortality (hazard ratio = 1.08, 95% CI, 1.04-1.12, p < 0.001). MELD-XI score could be used as a risk assessment toolin IE. Furthermore, modified MELD-XI score remained simple and more effective in predicting poor prognosis.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a direct bridge to heart transplantation in adults

ObjectivesVenoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) use as a bridge to transplant is extremely infrequent in adults. We investigated patient outcomes of the use of ECMO as bridge to transplant. MethodsUnited Network of Organ Sharing provided de-identified patient-level data. Between 2003 and 2016, 25,168 adult recipients were identified. Of these, 107 (0.4%) were bridged with ECMO and 6148 (24.4%) were bridged with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device. ResultsPatients in ECMO group were younger, more likely to have severely disabled functional status, shorter waitlist time, and were more frequently mechanically ventilated than were patients in the continuous-flow left ventricular assist device group. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated estimated posttransplant survival of 73.1% versus 93.1% at 90 days (P < .001) and 67.4% versus 82.4% at 3 years (P < .001) in ECMO and continuous-flow left ventricular assist device groups, respectively. Analysis of a propensity-matched cohort still demonstrated a lower survival in ECMO group at 90 days (74.8% vs 88.8%; P = .025) and 3 years (69.3% vs 82.2%; P = .054). Among the ECMO patients, multivariable logistic and Cox regression analyses showed model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score to be the sole contributor to both 90-day (odds ratio, 1.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-3.76; P = .050) and 3-year mortality (hazard ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-1.88; P = .002). ECMO-supported patients with a high MELD-XI score (>17) were associated with poor posttransplant survival compared with those with a low MELD-XI score (<13) (90 day, 54.4% vs 85.0% [P < .001] and 3 year, 49.5% vs 73.5% [P < .001]). ConclusionsBridge to transplant with ECMO was associated with increased early/mid-term mortality, especially in patients with a high MELD-XI score who demonstrated > 50% 3-year mortality. These findings may help to inform future organ allocation policies.

Prognostic value of liver dysfunction assessed by MELD-XI scoring system in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BackgroundThere are limited data regarding the influence of liver dysfunction on outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Model for End-stage Liver Disease eXcluding International normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score, which was originally developed for patients with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation, has been reported as a predictor of heart disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of MELD-XI score for patients undergoing TAVI. MethodsData from the prospectively maintained Optimized transCathEter vAlvular iNtervention (OCEAN-TAVI) multicenter registry were collected in 749 patients who underwent TAVI between October 2013 and August 2015. MELD-XI score was calculated as follows: 11.76×Ln (creatinine)+5.11×Ln (total bilirubin)+9.44. Patients were categorized based on MELD-XI score>10 or ≤10, and compared with regard to clinical characteristics and outcomes of TAVI. ResultsHigher MELD-XI score was associated with lower 30-day survival (95.6% vs 98.5%, P=0.03). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that higher MELD-XI score also was associated with lower 6-month survival (P<0.01). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that MELD-XI score was an independent predictor of 6-month cumulative mortality. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that MELD-XI score showed better accuracy in predicting 6-month mortality compared with Logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II, and Society of Thoracic Surgeons scores (area under the curve=0.67, 0.58, 0.57, and 0.60, respectively). ConclusionEvaluation of liver dysfunction according to MELD-XI score provides additional risk information for patients undergoing TAVI.

Predictive Value of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Score Excluding International Normalized Ratio One Year After Orthotopic Heart Transplantation

BackgroundThe Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scoring system incorporating a combination of hepatic and renal laboratory parameters does not adequately reflect the degree of multi-organ dysfunction in patients with heart failure, who need oral anticoagulation. In order to exclude the impact of oral anticoagulation on the international normalized ratio (INR), we used the MELD excluding INR (MELD-XI) score. The aims of the study were to calculate the individual preoperative MELD-XI score and its ability to predict 1-year mortality after heart transplantation and to identify other preoperative laboratory prognostic parameters. MethodsWe retrospectively analysed data of 87 consecutive adults undergoing heart transplantation between 2011 and 2014. Clinical data and laboratory parameters for the calculation of the MELD-XI score were obtained at the time of admission for the heart transplantation. ResultsThe average age of the patients was 48.8 ± 13.3 years and 68.9% of them were male. During the observation period, the mortality rate was 18.4%. Multivariate analysis of Cox proportional hazard confirmed that the pretransplantation MELD-XI score (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.625 [1.286–2.053]; P < .001), sodium serum concentration (HR = 0.824 [0.677–1.001]; P < .05) and highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) serum concentration (HR = 1.045 [1.008–1.083]; P < .02) were independent predictors of death during the first year after heart transplantation. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) indicated a good discriminatory power of MELD-XI (AUC 0.997; P < .04) and plasma sodium concentration (AUC 0.901; P < .01) in death prediction. ConclusionsOur study confirms that the pretransplantation MELD-XI score, as well as serum sodium and hsCRP concentrations, may be used to estimate postoperative risk in heart transplant recipients during a 1-year follow-up.

Outcomes of Adult Patients With Congenital Heart Disease After Heart Transplantation: Impact of Disease Type, Previous Thoracic Surgeries, and Bystander Organ Dysfunction

BackgroundAdults with congenital heart disease (CHD) are at increased risk for adverse outcomes after heart transplantation (HT). However, small cohorts have constrained the identification of factors associated with poor prognosis. We hypothesized that number of sternotomies and bystander organ dysfunction would be associated with an increased risk for early death after HT. Methods and ResultsWe performed a retrospective observational study of all adult CHD patients who underwent HT at our institution from January 1997 to January 2014. Forty-eight adult CHD patients were followed for a mean of 5 years. Diagnoses included tetralogy of Fallot/pulmonary atresia/double-outlet right ventricle in 15 (31%), D-transposition of the great arteries (TGA) in 10 (21%), tricuspid atresia/double-inlet left ventricle in 9 (19%), ventricular or atrial septal defect in 4 (8%), heterotaxy in 3 (6%), congenitally corrected TGA in 2 (4%), and other diagnoses in 5 (10%). Survival at both 1 and 5 years was 77%. According to multivariate analysis, ≥3 sternotomies (hazard ratio [HR] 8.5; P = .02) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio (MELD-XI) score >18 (HR 6.2; P = .01) were significant predictors of mortality. Failed Fontan surgery was not a significant predictor of death (P = .19). ConclusionsIn our cohort of adult CHD patients undergoing HT, ≥3 sternotomies and MELD-XI score >18 were significantly associated with death. These findings may be important in patient selection and decision regarding tolerable number of CHD surgeries before considering HT.

Model for end-stage liver disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score predicts heart transplant outcomes: Evidence from the registry of the United Network for Organ Sharing

Hepato-renal function is a valuable predictor of success after left ventricular assist device therapy and heart transplantation. Hence, we analyzed the importance of the Model for End-stage Liver Disease excluding international normalized ratio (MELD-XI) score to outcomes after heart transplant. Adults undergoing heart transplant from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database were identified (1994 to 2014). Individual MELD-XI scores were calculated; patients were stratified by MELD-XI quartiles (Q1 to Q4). Multivariate logistic regression and the Cox proportional hazard model were implemented to determine any association between MELD-XI scores, survival and other outcomes. From 39,711 patients undergoing OHT during the study period, MELD-XI score [median 10.7 (interquartile range 7.0 to 14.4)] was calculated for 36,005 patients (76% male and 75% white, 34% Status 1A). Higher MELD-XI scores had higher rates of pre-transplant extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, intra-aortic balloon pump, inotrope use and mechanical ventilation (p < 0.001 for all). Adjusted long-term mortality (median follow-up 8.1 years) was associated with MELD-XI score (hazard ratio [HR] 1.021 [1.016 to 1.026], p < 0.001). The highest MELD-XI quartile was associated with an HR 1.364 [1.255 to 1.482] risk of mortality compared with Q1. MELD-XI score was also associated with increased post-transplant infections (adjusted HR Q4 vs Q1: 1.364 [1.153 to 1.614], p < 0.001), stroke (adjusted HR Q4 vs Q1: 1.410 [1.074 to 1.852], p = 0.013), dialysis (adjusted HR Q4 vs Q1: 3.982 [3.386 to 4.683], p < 0.001), rejection (adjusted HR Q4 vs Q1: 1.519 [1.286 to 1.795], p = 0.003) and prolonged hospitalization (adjusted HR Q4 vs Q1: 1.635 [1.429 to 1.871], p < 0.001). Hepato-renal dysfunction, measured with MELD-XI score, predicts morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing orthotopic heart transplantation. Etiology of hepato-renal dysfunction should be sought and treated before heart transplantation.