Moderate Stenosis Research Articles

Alterations in Left Atrial and Ventricular Coupling in Mixed Aortic Valve Disease.

To characterize left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) function and atrioventricular (AV) coupling in patients with moderate mixed aortic valve disease (MMAVD) against those with isolated moderate or severe aortic valve disease and controls. Retrospective LA and LV peak longitudinal strain (LS) analysis were performed on 260 patients (46 MMAVD, 81 moderate aortic stenosis (AS), 50 severe AS, 48 moderate aortic regurgitation (AR), and 35 severe AR) and 66 controls. Peak LV and LA LS and AV coupling, assessed by combined peak LA and LV strain, was compared between the groups. ANOVA and 2-sided t-tests were used and a p-value of <0.01 was considered significant.LV strain was significantly lower in those with MMAVD compared to controls and those with moderate or severe isolated AR but comparable to those with moderate or severe AS (-17.1±1.1% MMAVD vs. -17.7±1.5% moderate AS p=0.02; vs. -17.0%±1.5% severe AS, p=0.74). AV coupling was significantly lower in those with MMAVD compared to controls and those with moderate AS or AR but comparable to those with severe AS or AR (47.1±6.8% MMAVD vs. 45.1±5.6% severe AS, p=0.13; vs. 50.4±9% severe AR, p=0.07). Impairments in AV coupling are comparable for patients with MMAVD and those with severe isolated AS or AR. Impairments in LV GLS in MMAVD mirror those found in severe AS. These findings suggest that haemodynamic consequences and adverse remodelling are similar for patients with MMAVD and isolated severe disease.

Myocardial ischemia caused by the synergistic effect of myocardial bridge and moderate stenosis: case report

BackgroundClinical events such as angina pectoris, acute coronary syndrome, and sudden death caused by myocardial bridge (MB) have attracted increasing attention. It is still a challenge to diagnose whether MB can cause the symptoms of patients with MB. For most MB patients, medication remains the primary treatment.Case presentationThis article reports a case of chest pain in a patient with MB in the middle segment of the left anterior descending artery (LADm) with moderate stenosis in the proximal segment (LADp). Through functional assessment, we found that neither MB nor fixed stenosis had sufficient effect on coronary blood flow to cause myocardial ischemia, but their synergistic effect resulted in myocardial ischemia. Finally, a stent was implanted in LADp and good clinical results were achieved.ConclusionsFor symptomatic patients with MB combined with fixed stenosis, functional evaluation may be necessary, which has significant guiding significance for treatment strategy selection. For asymptomatic patients, early detection of myocardial ischemia may also improve the prognosis of patients.

Comparative hemodynamic effects of carbetocin vs oxytocin in mothers with stenotic valvular heart disease undergoing cesarean delivery: a randomized controlled trial

Background &amp; objective: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is quite common an obstetric emergency, and is a nightmare for the anesthesiologist as well as the obstetrician. We compared the hemodynamic profiles of oxytocin and carbetocin for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage during elective cesarean delivery in patients with mild to moderate mitral or aortic stenosis. Methodology: This randomized controlled trial included full term pregnant women with known mild to moderate mitral or aortic valve stenosis and undergoing elective cesarean delivery. After delivery of the shoulder of the baby, the participant received either oxytocin or carbetocin. Patients’ hemodynamic parameters, including blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, and systemic vascular resistance, were recorded. The primary outcome was the 5-min average cardiac output after the drug administration. Secondary outcomes were cardiac output, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and systemic vascular resistance, blood loss, and the need for rescue uterotonics. Results: Forty-five patients (23 patients in the carbetocin group and 22 in the oxytocin group) were analyzed. The 5-min average cardiac output after drug injection was comparable between the two groups. The number of participants needing rescue uterotonic boluses were significantly more in the oxytocin group than in the carbetocin group (P = 0.022). Conclusion: In full-term pregnant women with stenotic valvular pathologies, carbetocin showed superior uterotonic effect compared to oxytocin; however, both drugs resulted in the equivalent hemodynamic effects. Trial registration: Clinical trial registration with clinicaltrials.gov No. NCT05110482 Keywords: oxytocin; carbetocin; mitral stenosis; aortic stenosis; cesarean delivery; hemodynamics Citation: Refaat S, Amin S, Tarek H, El Regal EA, Eissa AA, Zayed M, Ibrahim M. Comparative hemodynamic effects of carbetocin vs oxytocin in mothers with stenotic valvular heart disease undergoing cesarean delivery: a randomized controlled trial. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(4):681−686; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i4.2369 Received: January 03, 2024; Reviewed: May 05, 2024; Accepted: June 11, 2024

Grading of Aortic Valve Calcification Severity and Risk Stratification in Aortic Stenosis.

Thresholds of aortic valve calcification (AVC) to define hemodynamically moderate aortic stenosis (AS) from mild are lacking. We aimed to establish a novel grading classification of AVC as quantified by computed tomography and determine its prognostic value. This study included 915 patients with at least mild AS (mean age 70±12 years, 30% women) from a multicenter prospective registry. All patients underwent Doppler-echocardiography and noncontrast computed tomography within 3 months. Primary end point was the occurrence of all-cause death. Receiver operating characteristic curves analyses were used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of sex-specific thresholds of AVC to identify hemodynamically moderate AS. Optimal thresholds (ie, with best sensitivity/specificity) of AVC to distinguish moderate (aortic valve area 1.0-1.5 cm2 and mean gradient 20-39 mm Hg) from mild AS (aortic valve area >1.5 cm2 and mean gradient <20 mm Hg) were AVC ≥360 arbitrary units in women and ≥1037 arbitrary units in men. Based on the guidelines' thresholds for severe AS and the new thresholds in our study for moderate AS, 312 (34%) patients had mild, 253 (28%) moderate, and 350 (38%) severe AVC. During a mean follow-up of 5.6±3.9 years, 183 (27%) deaths occurred. In Cox multivariable models, AVC remained associated with an increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio per grade increase, 1.94 [95% CI, 1.53-2.56]; P<0.001). A novel grading classification of anatomic AS severity based on sex-specific thresholds of AVC provides significant prognostic value for predicting mortality. These findings support the complementarity of computed tomography-calcium scoring to Doppler-echocardiography to corroborate AS severity and enhance risk stratification in patients with AS.

Celiac Axis Stenosis as an Independent Risk Factor for Bile Leakage in Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Retrospective Study.

Background: Celiac axis stenosis can potentially lead to insufficient blood supply to vital organs, such as the liver, spleen, pancreas, and stomach. This condition result in the development of collateral circulation between the superior mesenteric artery and the hepatic artery. However, these collateral circulations are often disrupted during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), which may increase the risk of postoperative complications. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) from April 2015 to April 2023. Celiac trunk stenosis is classified according to the degree of stenosis: no stenosis (<30%), grade A (30%-<50%), grade B (50%-≤80%), and grade C (>80%). The incidence of postoperative complications was evaluated, and both univariate and multivariate risk analyses were conducted. Results: A total of 997 patients were included in the study, with mild celiac axis stenosis present in 23 (2.3%) patients, moderate stenosis in 18 (1.8%) patients, and severe stenosis in 10 (1.0%) patients. Independent risk factors for the development of bile leakage, as identified by both univariate and multivariate analyses, included body mass index (BMI) (HR = 1.108, 95% CI = 1.008-1.218, P = .033), intra-abdominal infection (HR = 2.607, 95% CI = 1.308-5.196, P = .006), postoperative hemorrhage (HR = 4.510, 95% CI = 2.048-9.930, P = <0.001), and celiac axis stenosis (50%-≤80%, HR = 4.235, 95% CI = 1.153-15.558, P = .030), and (>80%, HR = 4.728, 95% CI = .882-25.341, P = .047). Celiac axis stenosis, however, was not determined to be an independent risk factor for pancreatic fistula (P > 0.05). Additionally, the presence of an aberrant hepatic artery did not significantly increase the risk of postoperative complications when compared with celiac axis stenosis alone. Conclusion: Severe celiac axis stenosis is an independent risk factor for postoperative bile leakage following LPD.

Sex Differences in Outcomes of Adults with Repaired Coarctation of Aorta and Concomitant Aortic Valve Disease

BackgroundAortic valve disease is common in adults with coarctation of aorta. However, no systematic comparative analyses have been performed of the clinical course of aortic valve disease for male vs female patients in this population. The purpose of this study was to compare cardiac remodelling, onset of symptoms, and incidence of aortic valve replacement (AVR) for male vs female patients. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted of adults with repaired coarctation of aorta and ≥ moderate aortic stenosis and/or aortic regurgitation. Cardiac remodelling (left ventricular [LV], left atrial, right ventricular [RV], and right atrial structure and function) and symptomatic and/or functional class were determined at the baseline encounter. Development of new-onset symptoms and the incidence of AVR were ascertained for the period from baseline to last encounter. ResultsWe identified 214 patients (121 male [57%], 93 female [43%]). Although both groups had a similar aortic valve gradient, aortic valve area indexed to body surface area, aortic regurgitation severity, and functional status at baseline, female patients had more LV concentric hypertrophy and remodelling, left atrial hypertension and dysfunction, elevated RV systolic pressure, and RV systolic dysfunction. Of 151 patients without symptoms at baseline,102 (72%) developed symptoms. Female sex was independently associated with new-onset symptoms (adjusted hazard ratio 1.14, [95% confidence interval 1.05-1.23]). Of 214 patients, 191 (89%) underwent AVR. Female sex was not associated with AVR upon multivariable analysis. However, LV concentric hypertrophy and remodelling (both of which were more common in female patients) were associated with new-onset symptoms and AVR. ConclusionsFemale patients, compared to male patients, had more-advanced cardiac remodelling, and more-rapid onset of symptoms, but a similar risk of AVR.

Prognostic value of extraaortic-valvular cardiac damage in patients with moderate aortic stenosis and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.

The extraaortic-valvular cardiac damage (EVCD) Stage has shown potential for risk stratification for patients with aortic stenosis (AS). This study aimed to examine the usefulness of the EVCD Stage in risk stratification of patients with moderate AS and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Clinical data from patients with moderate AS (aortic valve area,.60-.85 cm2/m2; peak aortic valve velocity, 2.0-4.0m/s) and reduced LVEF (LVEF 20%-50%) were analyzed during 2010-2019. Patients were categorized into three groups: EVCD Stages 1 (LV damage), 2 (left atrium and/or mitral valve damage), and 3/4 (pulmonary artery vasculature and/or tricuspid valve damage or right ventricular damage). The primary endpoint included a composite of cardiac death and heart failure hospitalization, with non-cardiac death as a competing risk. The study included 130 patients (mean age 76.4±6.8 years; 62.3% men). They were categorized into three groups: 26 (20.0%) in EVCD Stage 1, 66 (50.8%) in Stage 2, and 48 (29.2%) in Stage 3/4. The endpoint occurred in 54 (41.5%) patients during a median follow-up of 3.2 years (interquartile range, 1.4-5.1). Multivariate analysis indicated EVCD Stage 3/4 was significantly associated with the endpoint (hazard ratio 2.784; 95% confidence interval 1.197-6.476; P=.017) compared to Stage 1, while Stage 2 did not (hazard ratio 1.340; 95% confidence interval.577-3.115; P=.500). The EVCD staging system may aid in the risk stratification of patients with moderate AS and reduced LVEF.

Impact of Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities on Access to Interspinous Spacer for Treatment of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Nationwide Medicare Analysis.

In mild to moderate lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) where conservative care treatments fail, minimally invasive treatments, such as interspinous spacers without decompression or fusion (ISD), may be appropriate. While previous studies have demonstrated racial and socioeconomic disparities in the surgical treatment of LSS, there are limited data on how those factors impact accessibility to these procedures. This study explored demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic differences in the use of ISD. Using the Medicare 100% files from 2017 through 2022, this retrospective claims analysis identified when and if patients diagnosed with LSS received ISD implantation. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine the association between racial and socioeconomic characteristics and the rate of ISD implantation, stratified by geographic region. A total of 1,316,622 individuals met the inclusion criteria; 4730 (0.4%) underwent ISD implantation, with a mean (standard deviation) time to treatment of 11.9 (13.2) months after diagnosis. The likelihood of ISD implantation was higher for older patients (except for the oldest group), males, those with lower disease burden, and White patients. Cox regression revealed that the associations of racial and socioeconomic factors with ISD implantation varied by U.S. region. In the Midwest and Northeast, lower median household income was associated with a decreased likelihood of ISD implantation regardless of race, while in the South, Black patients were less likely to undergo ISD implantation regardless of income. The observed disparities in access to ISD implantation mirror existing trends in surgical interventions for LSS, suggesting further study and interventions are needed to address inequities.

One-Year Outcomes of Transseptal Mitral Valve-in-Valve in Intermediate Surgical Risk Patients.

Transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve replacement offers a less-invasive alternative for high-risk patients with bioprosthetic valve failure. Limited experience exists in intermediate-risk patients. We aim to evaluate 1-year outcomes of the PARTNER 3 mitral valve-in-valve study. This prospective, single-arm, multicenter study enrolled symptomatic patients with a failing mitral bioprosthesis demonstrating greater than or equal to moderate stenosis and regurgitation and Society of Thoracic Surgeons score ≥3% and <8%. A balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve (SAPIEN 3, Edwards Lifesciences) was used via a transeptal approach. The primary end point was the composite of all-cause mortality and stroke at 1 year. A total of 50 patients from 12 sites underwent mitral valve-in-valve from 2018 to 2021. The mean age was 70.1±9.7 years, mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 4.1%±1.6%, and 54% were female. There were no primary end point events (mortality or stroke) through 1 year, and no left-ventricular outflow tract obstruction, endocarditis, or mitral valve reintervention was reported. Six patients (12%) required rehospitalization, including heart failure (n=2), minor procedural side effects (n=2), and valve thrombosis (n=2; both resolved with anticoagulation). An additional valve thrombosis was associated with no significant clinical sequelae. From baseline to 1 year, all subjects with available data had none/trace or mild (grade 1+) mitral regurgitation and the New York Heart Association class improved in 87.2% (41/47) of patients. Mitral valve-in-valve with a balloon-expandable valve via transseptal approach in intermediate-risk patients was associated with improved symptoms and quality of life, adequate transcatheter valve performance, and no mortality or stroke at 1-year follow-up. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03193801.

Magnetic resonance imaging combined with serum endolipin and galactagoglobin-3 to diagnose cerebral infarction in the elderly with diabetes mellitus.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with serum endothelin and galactagoglobin-3 (Gal-3) can improve the clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus complicated with cerebral infarction. To analyze the clinical value of MRI combined with serum endolipin and Gal-3 for the diagnosis of cerebral infarction in the elderly with diabetes mellitus. One hundred and fifty patients with acute cerebral infarction hospitalized between January 2021 and December 2023 were divided into two groups according to comorbid diabetes mellitus, including 62 and 88 cases in the diabetic and nondiabetic cerebral infarction groups. Serum samples were collected to detect the expression of serum endolipoxins, and Gal-3, and cranial MRI was performed at admission. Differences between the two groups were compared to analyze the diagnostic value of these parameters. Serum endolipin and Gal-3 expression were higher in the diabetic cerebral infarction group (P < 0.05). The arterial wall area, vessel area, normalized wall index, and lumen stenosis rate were higher in the diabetic cerebral infarction group, while the rate of arterial lumen moderate and severe stenosis was 48.39% higher (36.36%, P < 0.05). The percentage of large (29.03%) and multiple infarcts (33.87%) in the diabetic cerebral infarction group was higher (13.64% and 20.45%), and the incidence rate of lacunar infarcts was lower (37.10% vs 65.91%) (P < 0.05). The total incidence of arterial plaque in patients in the diabetic cerebral infarction group was 96.77% higher (69.32%), while the incidence of necrotic lipid core plaque was 58.06% higher (26.14%) (P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to assess the diagnosis utility of these techniques. MRI in combination with serum endoglin and Gal-3 had the highest area under the curve, the Yoden index, sensitivity and specificity (P < 0.05). The expression of serum endolipin and Gal-3 in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus with cerebral infarction showed an elevated trend, and the degree of luminal stenosis was severe. MRI predominantly revealed large and multiple infarct foci. This combined index examination can improve the clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus combined with cerebral infarction.

Does Atrial Fibrillation at Diagnosis Change Prognosis in Patients with Aortic Stenosis?

Background: Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common valve disease and atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, frequently associated with AS. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of AF on mortality in patients with moderate and severe AS. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1070 consecutive moderate and severe AS patients (57% were male, age was 69 ± 10, severe AS 22.5%), who underwent transthoracic echocardiography from March 2018 to November 2021. AS severity was defined by specific threshold values with severe AS being defined by a peak velocity > 4 m/s, an MPG > 40 mmHg, and an AVA < 1 cm2 and moderated by a peak velocity of 3-4 m/s, an MPG 20-40 mmHg and an AVA 1-1.5 cm. Patients with AF were defined as those having a history of AF when AS was found on the index echocardiography. The follow-up assessment in December 2023 ascertained vital status and data on aortic valve replacement (AVR). Results: 790 (73.8%) patients were with sinus rhythm (SR) and 280 (26.2%) patients with AF. Mortality was higher in patients with AF than in those with SR (46% vs. 36.2% HR 1.424, 95% CI 1.121-1.809, p = 0.004). After adjusting for clinical confounders, mortality risk in AF relative to SR remained significant (HR 1.284, 95% CI 1.03-1.643, p = 0.047). Patients with AF demonstrated high mortality risk in the moderate aortic stenosis stratum (HR 1.376, 95% CI 1.059-1.788, p = 0.017), with even greater risk in the severe AS stratum (HR 1.644, 95% CI 1.038-2.603, p = 0.034) with significant interaction (p = 0.007). In patients with AF AVR demonstrated a protective effect on survival (HR 0.365, 95% CI 0.202-0.627, p < 0.001), but to a lesser degree than in patients with sinus rhythm (HR 0.376, 95% CI 0.250-0.561, p < 0.001) without significant interaction (p = 0.278). In patients with AF mortality risk was high in the conservative treatment stratum (HR 1.361, 95% CI 1.066-1.739, p = 0.014), in the AVR stratum mortality risk was higher but did not reach statistical significance (HR 1.823, 95% CI 0.973-3.414, p = 0.061). However, when corrected for echocardiographic variables strongly correlated with AF, AF was no longer independently associated with all-cause mortality. (HR 0.97 95% CI 0.709-1.323, p = 0.84). Conclusions: Patients with moderate and severe AS and AF have worse prognosis than patients with SR which can be explained by cardiac damage. AVR improves survival in patients with AF and with SR.

Determinants of prehospital and in-hospital delay in patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis and their influence on the outcome after elective carotid endarterectomy

BackgroundThis study analyses the determinants of prehospital (index event to admission) and in-hospital delay (admission to carotid endarterectomy (CEA)). In addition, the analysis addresses the association between prehospital or in-hospital...

Excellent Survival With a Focus on Pulmonary Artery Reinterventions After the Arterial Switch Operation.

Background: We sought to evaluate the outcomes in patients who underwent the arterial switch operation (ASO) over a 20-year period at a single institution. Methods: The current study is a retrospective review of 180 consecutive patients who underwent the ASO for biventricular surgical correction of dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) between 2002 and 2022. Results: Among 180 patients, 121 had TGA-intact ventricular septum, 47 had TGA-ventricular septal defect and 12 had Taussig-Bing Anomaly (TBA). The median follow-up time was 6.7 years (interquartile range: 3.9-8.7 years). There were five early (2.8%) and one late (0.6%) mortality. Survival was 96.6% at one year and beyond. Reoperations were performed in 31 patients (17%). Taussig Bing Anomaly was found to increase the risk of reoperation by 17 times (P < .0001). A total of 37 (21%) patients underwent 53 reinterventions (14 surgical procedures, 39 catheter interventions) specifically addressing pulmonary artery (PA) stenosis. Freedom from PA reintervention was 97%, 87%, 70%, and 55% at 1, 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively. By bivariable analysis, TBA (P = .003, odds ratio [OR]: 6.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9-21.7), mild PA stenosis at discharge (P ≤ .001, OR: 6.1, 95% CI: 2.7-13.6), and moderate or severe PA stenosis at discharge (P ≤ .001, OR: 12.7, 95% CI: 5-32.2) were identified as predictors of reintervention on PA. In the last follow-up of 174 survivors, 24 patients (14%) had moderate or greater PA stenosis, two (1%) had moderate neoaortic valve regurgitation, and 168 were New York Heart Association status I. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated excellent survival and functional status following the ASO for d-TGA; however, patients remain subject to frequent reinterventions especially on the pulmonary arteries.

Long-term outcomes following the Ross procedure in neonates and infants: A multi-institutional analysis

ObjectivesFor neonates and infants with aortic valve pathology, the Ross procedure historically has been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Data regarding long-term durability are lacking. MethodsThe international, multi-institutional Ross Collaborative included 6 tertiary care centers. Infants who underwent a Ross operation between 1996 and 2016 (allowing a minimum 5 years of follow-up) were retrospectively identified. Serial echocardiograms were examined to study evolution in neoaortic size and function. ResultsPrimary diagnoses for the 133 patients (n = 30 neonates) included isolated aortic stenosis (14%, n = 19), Shone complex (14%, n = 19), and aortic stenosis plus other (excluding Shone complex; n = 95, 71%), including arch obstruction (n = 55), left ventricular hypoplasia (n = 9), and mitral disease (moderate or greater stenosis or regurgitation, n = 31). At the time of the Ross procedure, median age was 96 days (interquartile range, 36-186), and median weight was 4.4 kg (3.6-6.5). In-hospital mortality occurred in 13 of 133 patients (10%) (4/30 [13%] neonates). Postdischarge mortality occurred in 10 of 120 patients (8%) at a median of 298 days post-Ross. Post-Ross neoaortic dilatation occurred, peaking at 4 to 5 SDs above normal at 2 to 3 years before returning to near-baseline z-score at a median follow-up of 11.5 [6.4-17.4] years. Autograft/left ventricular outflow tract reintervention was required in 5 of 120 patients (4%) at a median of 10.3 [4.1-12.8] years. Freedom from moderate or greater neoaortic regurgitation was 86% at 15 years. ConclusionsNeonates and infants experience excellent postdischarge survival and long-term freedom from autograft reintervention and aortic regurgitation after the Ross. Neoaortic dilatation normalizes in this population in the long-term. Increased consideration should be given to Ross in neonates and infants with aortic valve disease.

Aortic valve degeneration after valve-sparing root replacement in patients with bicuspid aortopathy or connective tissue disorder

ObjectiveWe sought to evaluate outcomes of valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) in patients with bicuspid aortopathy (BAV) versus other connective tissue disorder (CTD). MethodsThis was a single-center cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing VSRR via reimplantation from 2000 to 2023 with BAV or CTD. Operative outcomes, Kaplan-Meier survival estimates, and cumulative risk of reoperation and recurrent aortic insufficiency (AI) with the competing risk of death were assessed. ResultsOf 516 patients who underwent VSRR, 109 (51.9%) had BAV and 101 (48.1%) had CTD. Patients with BAV were older (46.9 ± 10.4 vs 38.4 ± 14 years, P < .001) and more likely male (89.0% vs 56.4%, P < .001) and hypertensive (66.1% vs 28.7%, P < .001). Preoperative AI was similar (P = .57) between groups (30.3% mild, 18.3% moderate, 11.1% severe). Most patients had no/trivial immediate postoperative residual AI (96.3% vs 93.1%). Operative mortality was zero; postoperative adverse events were minimal. Mean clinical follow-up was 5.2 ± 4.4 years; 10-year survival was 95.6% versus 95.7% (P = .70). Echocardiographic follow-up was 3.9 ± 4.1 years; incidence of >2+ AI (9.7% vs 10.1%, P = 1.0) was similar between groups, whereas the incidence of moderate or greater aortic stenosis was greater with BAV (7.5% vs 0%, P = .02). Reoperation was low in both groups (3.7% vs 5.9%, P = .65). Competing risk analysis found no difference in reoperation hazard between BAV and CTD groups (hazard ratio, 0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.07-1.81, P = .21). ConclusionsPatients with BAV and CTD have excellent operative outcomes, no mortality, and minimal residual AI after VSRR. Although the incidence of recurrent AI was similar, patients with BAV are at risk for AS.

ATHEROSCLEROTIC CHANGES OF BRACHIOCEPHALIC ARTERIES IN DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS ACCORDING TO SONOGRAPHY

Background. One of the most frequent causes of death is considered to be stroke on the back of atherosclerosis of the extracranial carotid arteries. Detection of atherosclerosis at an early stage facilitates timely prevention and reduces the risk of developing of an acute cardiovascular event in the future. Purpose. To evaluate the clinical significance of ultrasound in the diagnosis of atherosclerotic changes in the brachiocephalic arteries in people of different age groups. Materials and methods. Echography of brachiocephalic arteries was performed among 155 people aged 45 to 89 years, who were randomized into 3 age groups. The middle–aged group included 56 people; the elderly group – 54 people; the senile group - 45 people. The processing of the results of the study was carried out in the programs Statistica 10 (StatSoft, USA). Results. According to the data of sonography, atherosclerotic plaques were detected in 62.5% of the middle–aged group, 83.3% of the elderly group and 88.9% of senile age. Heterogeneous hypoechoic and calcified plaques are found only among people who are over 60 years old. Moderate stenosis was observed at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery in all age groups. Pronounced stenosis and critical vascular stenosis in the proximal part of the internal carotid artery are observed in senile age. The index of the maximum systolic velocity among people with atherosclerosis decreases with age. With increasing age, the level of vascular resistance increases. Conclusion. Considering significant changes in the indicators of atherosclerotic manifestations already in middle age, in order to reduce the increase in population mortality from cardiovascular diseases, the healthcare system should introduce early ultrasound screening of brachiocephalic arteries for patients from 18 years of age.

The relationship between triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and the functional significance of coronary lesions

Aims: Have shown that triglycerides (TG) are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Dyslipidemia characterized by low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) has been shown to be associated with symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD). In studies, the TG/HDL-C ratio has been found to be strongly associated with parameters indicative of the severity of coronary disease. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the TG/HDL-C ratio is associated with the functional significance of moderate coronary artery lesions. Methods: A total of 102 consecutive patients, 72 male and 30 female, who underwent measurement of fractional flow reserve (FFR) due to moderate coronary stenosis (quantitative coronary analysis 40-70%) on angiography were included in the study. An FFR value ≤0.80 was accepted for hemodynamic significance. Results: Among the 102 patients included in the study, it was determined that 52 (50.9%) had significant functional stenosis. Left ventricular ejection fraction of Group II was lower than Group I (60 (55-62.5) vs. 55(50-60), p=0.006). The male patient ratio was higher in Group II, but the difference between the two groups was not significant (68% and 77%, respectively, p=0.072). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that TG/HDL-C (OR=1.278, 95% CI=1.078-1.514, p=0.005) was an independent determinant of significant functional stenosis. ROC analysis revealed that the TG/HDL-C value was 3.89 and provided 64% specificity and 61.5% sensitivity in predicting hemodynamically significant coronary artery stenosis. Conclusion: Elevated TG/HDL-C values are associated with the functional significance of angiographically moderate coronary artery stenosis.

Effectiveness and Safety of Superimposed High-Frequency Jet Ventilation in Rigid Bronchoscopy: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study.

Introduction: Superimposed high-frequency jet ventilation (SHFJV) is a new type of jet ventilation, but its safety and effectiveness in rigid bronchoscopy have not been fully verified, especially in patients with airway stenosis and preoperative cardiovascular disease. This study is intended to retrospectively analyze the effectiveness and safety of SHFJV in the endobronchial treatment under rigid bronchoscopy. Methods: A total of 363 patients were included in this study. They were divided into 2 groups: Group A (n = 176)-presence of airway stenosis; Group B (n = 187)-absence of airway stenosis. Mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and pulse oxygen saturation were recorded before anesthesia and during the procedure. Arterial blood gases was recorded before anesthesia, at the end of the procedure and second-day postoperation respectively. The duration of procedure, extubation time, length of stay in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), length of postoperative hospitalization, incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications as well as 30 day mortality were also recorded. Results: All the patients had stable circulation during the procedure, including that with preoperative cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. There were no substantial differences observed in terms of extubation time, PACU stay, and postoperative hospital days. Patients with severe preoperative airway stenosis exhibited longer procedure duration compared to those with mild to moderate stenosis, but there was no difference noted in terms of the extubation and PACU time. Conclusion: SHFJV is effective and safe in the endobronchial treatment for patients with airway stenosis and preoperative cardiovascular disease. It can serve as an ideal airway management strategy for rigid bronchoscopy.

Real-world use of medical therapy in moderate asymptomatic carotid stenosis

ObjectiveDespite level 1 evidence demonstrating the benefit of carotid endarterectomy for the prevention of stroke in patients with severe asymptomatic carotid stenosis (ACS), there has been a trend toward recommending optimal medical therapy (OMT) alone. This recommendation has been promulgated based on the observation that modern advances in OMT reduce the overall stroke risk in the general population, but the success of this treatment strategy is dependent on patient and provider adherence. In current practice, patients with moderate ACS are nearly all treated with OMT alone. The objective of this study was to evaluate adherence to OMT in a cohort of patients with moderate ACS undergoing treatment with OMT alone. MethodsConsecutive carotid duplex ultrasound examinations were reviewed for the years 2019 and 2020. Those with moderate (50%-69%) ACS based on Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines were included in the study. Patients were assessed for OMT at the time of the index duplex, the first follow-up visit, and at each subsequent follow-up visit until the end of the study. OMT was defined as abstinence from smoking, aspirin or other antiplatelet use, and statin or other lipid-lowering therapy. Patients were stratified based on their ability to achieve OMT, and each component was evaluated to identify shortfalls in therapy. ResultsA total of 323 duplex ultrasound examinations with moderate ACS in 255 patients were identified. Of the 255 patients, 143 (56.1%) were on OMT at the time of the first duplex; that number increased to 163 (63.9%) by the first follow-up visit and 175 (68.6%) by the completion of the study. There were 112 (43.9%) patients who were not on OMT at the time of the index duplex, 43 (38.4%) of whom achieved OMT over a median follow-up time of 2.7 years. By the end of follow-up, 86 (76.8%) were taking aspirin or another antiplatelet medication, 93 (83.0%) were on statin or other lipid-lowering therapy, and 74 (66.1%) were abstinent from smoking. Pre-duplex smoking was independently associated with failure to achieve OMT (hazard ratio: 0.452, P = .017). ConclusionsAmong patients with moderate ACS who were not previously on OMT, the rate of OMT achievement is poor. Although advances in lipid management through statin therapy have been praised for their role in improving the effectiveness of OMT, smoking cessation represents an important target for improving uptake and as a result effectiveness of OMT.

ASSESSMENT OF GROWTH AND RUPTURE OF CAROTID ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND PLAQUE WITH DIFFERENT DEGREES OF STENOSIS

In this study, the growth and rupture of plaque were investigated to predict the development of carotid atherosclerosis and plaque. Realistic 3D models of multi-component plaque and carotid artery were established in healthy, mild, moderate, and severe stenosis. Fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulations were performed on these models, and the wall shear stress (WSS), time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), relative residence time (RRT), and wall tensile stress (WTS) in a natural cardiac cycle were analyzed to assess the epidermal rupture, growth tendency, and internal rupture of plaques in a natural state. Results show that in severe stenosis, the WSS at the stenosis sites exceeds the threshold of rupture during almost the entire cardiac cycle, thus causing an epidermal injury, bringing about plaque detachment and thrombosis. TAWSS decreased and OSI and RRT increased in the bifurcation region and the downstream region of the plaque. The deposition is more likely to occur in these regions. A higher degree of stenosis will increase the OSI and RRT in the downstream region of the plaque, leading to continuous deterioration of the plaque, while the degree of stenosis has little effect on the upstream region of the plaque. The fibrous cap is the starting point for rupture within the plaque, and calcification increases the stress on the fibrous cap, thereby increasing the risk of rupture.