Preoperative Pulmonary Artery Pressure Research Articles

Effect of preoperative pulmonary artery pressure on the prognosis of end-stage heart failure patients after heart transplantation

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of preoperative pulmonary artery pressure on perioperative outcome of end-stage heart failure patients undergoing heart transplantation.MethodsRetrospective analysis was undertaken on the clinical data of patients receiving heart transplantation in the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of our hospital from March 2017 to March 2022. A ROC curve analysis was developed between mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) and postoperative mortality using mPAP as diagnostic criteria. Patients were divided into groups based on this threshold to determine the best mPAP threshold value for predicting postoperative nosocomial mortality, and the differences in preoperative and intraoperative data, postoperative complications, and clinical prognosis of patients in the two groups were compared. Patients were followed up to draw the survival curve of patients in the two groups.ResultsThe study enlisted the participation of 105 patients. ROC curve research revealed that preoperative pulmonary artery pressure was substantially linked with death following heart transplantation, with mPAP = 30.5mmHg being the best threshold. The group with mPAP ≥ 30.5mmHg had a greater incidence of postoperative ECMO support (28.2% vs. 10.6%, P = 0.021) and a higher incidence of in-hospital mortality (15.4% vs. 1.5%, P = 0.019) than the group with mPAP < 30.5mmHg. The postoperative survival rates of 105 patients were 91.3%, 88.7%, 81.6%, and 77.5% at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years, respectively, however, there was no significant difference between the two groups of patients in the postoperative intermediate-far survival rate (P = 0.431).ConclusionsPreoperative pulmonary artery pressure in patients with end-stage heart failure is intimately correlated with perioperative prognosis of heart transplant recipients. The optimal cut-off mPAP value in predicting perioperative prognosis of heart transplant recipients is 30.5mmHg. In the high mPAP group, perioperative ECMO support rate and perioperative mortality rate are high, which do not affect the medium and long-term prognosis of the recipients undergoing heart transplantation.

Pulmonary Hypertension and Operative Risk in Mitral Valve and Coronary Surgery

IntroductionPulmonary hypertension (PHT) is a known risk factor for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), though less well understood for valve operations. We hypothesized PHT is associated with lower risk during mitral valve operations compared to CABG. MethodsPatients undergoing isolated mitral valve or CABG operations (2011-2019) in a regional Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database were stratified by pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP). The association of PASP by procedure type was assessed by hierarchical regression modeling, adjusting for STS predicted risk scores. ResultsOf the 2542 mitral and 11,059 CABG patients, the mitral population had higher mean STS risk of mortality (3.6% versus 2.4%, P < 0.0001) and median PASP (42 mmHg versus 32 mmHg, P < 0.0001). PASP was independently associated with operative mortality and major morbidity in both mitral and CABG patients. However, for mitral patients a 10-mmHg increase in PASP was associated with lower odds of morbidity (odds ratio: 1.06 versus 1.13), mortality (odds ratio: 1.11 versus 1.18) and intensive care unit time (4.3 versus 7.6 h) compared with CABG patients (interaction terms P < 0.0001). Among mitral patients, median PASP was higher in stenotic versus regurgitant disease (57 mmHg versus 40 mmHg, P < 0.0001). However, there was no differential association of PASP on morbidity or mortality (interaction terms P > 0.05). ConclusionsAlthough mitral surgery patients tend to have higher preoperative pulmonary artery pressures, PHT was associated with a lower risk for mitral outcomes compared with CABG. Further research on the management and optimization of patients with PHT perioperatively is needed to improve care for these patients.

Temperature management of intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass in valve replacement surgery: a retrospective analysis of the impact on postoperative organ function.

This study aimed to systematically analyze the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) at different temperatures on the function of different organs in patients after heart valve replacement and to investigate its safety and feasibility. The data of 275 heart valve replacement surgery patients who underwent static suction compound anesthesia under CPB between February 2018 and October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into normothermic CPB anesthesia group (group 0), shallow hypothermic CPB anesthesia group (group 1), medium hypothermic CPB anesthesia group (group 2), and deep hypothermic CPB anesthesia group (group 3) according to the different intraoperative CPB temperatures. The basic preoperative conditions, cardiac resuscitation, number of defibrillations, postoperative ICU stay, postoperative hospital stay, and postoperative evaluation of different organ functions, such as heart, lung, and kidney functions, were analyzed and studied in each group. The comparison of preoperative and postoperative pulmonary artery pressure and left ventricular internal diameter (LVD) was statistically significant in each group (p < 0.05), and the postoperative pulmonary function pressure was statistically significant in group 0 compared with groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.05). The preoperative glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the eGFR on the first postoperative day were statistically significant in all the groups (p < 0.05), and the eGFR on the first postoperative day in groups 1 and 2 were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The control of appropriate temperature during CPB was associated with the recovery of organ function in patients after valve replacement. Intravenous compound general anesthesia with superficial hypothermic CPB might be more beneficial in recovering cardiac, pulmonary, and renal functions.

Albumin-Bilirubin Score: A Novel Mortality Predictor in Valvular Surgery.

The heart and liver are two organs that are closely related. The Albumin-Bilirubin (ALBI) score is a developed scoring system for assessing liver function. The aims of this study were to examine the correlation between preoperative ALBI score and pulmonary artery pressure and to investigate its ability to predict heart valve surgery mortality outcomes. The data of 872 patients who underwent isolated and combined heart valve surgery from 2014 to 2021 were retrospectively screened. In the preoperative period, 152 patients with laboratory tests including albumin and total bilirubin were found and analyzed retrospectively. Thirteen of these patients were excluded from the study. The remaining 139 patients were included in the analysis. Baseline demographic data, echocardiography data, performance status, laboratory data, operative data, and postoperative status were collected. The optimal cutoff value of preoperative ALBI score was calculated. The cutoff for ALBI scores was calculated as -2.44 to predict in-hospital mortality (sensitivity = 75.0%, specificity = 70%). Based on the cutoff value, 90 patients had a low ALBI score (≤ -2.44, 64.7%) and 49 patients had a high ALBI score (> -2.44, 35.3%). High ALBI score was associated with an increased incidence of acute kidney injury and in-hospital mortality, and a positive correlation was found between ALBI score and pulmonary artery pressure. In patients with valvular surgery, high ALBI score was an independent prognostic factor of in-hospital mortality and acute kidney injury. It is easily measurable and a cost-effective way to predict mortality.

Predictors of mitral valve hemodynamics after mitral valve repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation: a subanalysis of the CAMRA randomized trial

Abstract Introduction Intra-operative predictors of mid-to-late mitral valve dysfunction after surgical repair of mitral regurgitation (MR) caused by prolapse remain poorly characterized. This study aims to evaluate the effect of annuloplasty prosthesis size on post-operative MV hemodynamics at rest and during exercise, and to identify perioperative predictors of MV dysfunction. Methods 104 patients were randomly assigned to resection and preservation for surgical treatment of posterior leaflet prolapse in the Canadian Mitral Research Alliance CardioLink-2 study. Echocardiograms were performed at baseline and 1 year postoperatively. Intraoperative TEE was performed to assess immediate MV gradients. Exercise TTE was performed 1 year after repair. Linear regression analysis was used to identify associations between MV indices (rest and peak exercise gradients) at 12 months, and perioperative echocardiographic and clinical factors. Results Mean age of participants was 65±10 years, and 83% were male. Larger annuloplasty size was associated with lower transmitral gradients at rest and during peak exercise. In multivariable analysis, annuloplasty size ≥34mm was associated with lower mean and peak rest and exercise gradients at 12 months, after adjustment for repair type, age, sex, and BSA (p&amp;lt;0.001). Higher pre-operative pulmonary artery pressures were associated with reduced functional capacity post-operatively. Intra-operative TEE gradients predict resting and exercise MV hemodynamics at 1 year. Conclusion Annuloplasty size ≥34mm is associated with improved MV hemodynamics at rest and during peak exercise 1 year post MV repair. MV repair prior to onset of pulmonary hypertension confers favourable post operative functional capacity. Finally, intra-operative TEE can be used to identify patients at risk of mitral valve dysfunction within 1 year of repair. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): The Heart and StrokeFoundation of Ontario (GIA 16-00014666)

The Clinical Characteristics of 88 Patients with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection and Risk Factors Associated with Early Postoperative Death.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to analyze the outcomes and risk factors of early postoperative death (within 30 days after surgery) in a single-center after repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC).MethodsThe clinical data of 88 children who had been diagnosed with TAPVC and underwent radical operation in the Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University (China) from January 2015 to July 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All the patients were divided into the survival group (n = 81) and the death group (n = 7) for the analysis of preoperative and postoperative clinical data. The variables associated with early postoperative death were statistically analyzed to obtain the risk factors for early postoperative death of TAPVC.ResultsOf the 88 patients included in this study, 7 (7.95%) patients died early, including 4 supracardiac and 3 infracardiac cases. Recurrent pulmonary vein obstruction occurred in 2 patients after discharged from hospital, and both were intracardiac TAPVC. Delayed death occurred in 2 children, both of which were intracardiac TAPVC cases. According to univariate analysis, the risk factors statistically significantly associated with the early postoperative death included infracardiac type (P = 0.08), preoperative maximum pulmonary vein flow velocity (P = 0.031), preoperative mechanical ventilation (P = 0.043), preoperative maximum pulmonary artery pressure (P = 0.000), intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass time (P = 0.003) and intraoperative aortic cross-clamp time (P = 0.000).ConclusionInfracardiac type of TAPVC, preoperative maximum pulmonary vein flow velocity, preoperative mechanical ventilation, preoperative maximum pulmonary artery pressure, intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass time and aortic cross-clamp time are the risk factors for early postoperative death.

Prognostic Significance of Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy Undergoing Septal Myectomy

<h3>Purpose</h3> Patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) often have concomitant pulmonary hypertension (PH). We hypothesize that concomitant PH is associated with increased risk for short-term adverse outcomes after septal myectomy. <h3>Methods</h3> We retrospectively evaluated 758 patients who underwent septal myectomy for treatment of HOCM between 2010 and 2020 at our institution. There were 396 total patients who had pre-op right heart catheterization (RHC). After exclusion of patients without complete RHC data, there were 281 patients included in the final analysis. Adverse events (AE) were defined by a composite endpoint which included post-operative stroke, TIA, MI, cardiac arrest, prolonged ventilation, reintubation, pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and mortality. Comparison was made between patients with and without AE. Categorical variables were compared with chi-square or Fisher's exact test where appropriate. Continuous variables were compared with one-way ANOVA. Significance was defined as p<0.05. <h3>Results</h3> The overall incidence of AE in the study population was low (n=17, 6%). Prolonged ventilation was the most common AE (n=9, 3.2%). Patients with AE were older in age (64 vs 57, p=.015) and were more likely to have chronic lung disease (OR 4.42, 95% CI 1.5-12.8; p=.003). On pre-op RHC, patients with AE had significantly greater pulmonary artery (PA) systolic pressure (47 vs 38, p=.010), mean PA pressure (32 vs 26, p=.017), PA pulsatility index (5.9 vs 3.8, p=.004), PA pulse pressure (28 vs 22, p=.009), transpulmonary gradient (13 vs 10, p=.02), and pulmonary vascular resistance (3.4 vs 2.0, p <.001). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Increased severity of concomitant PH in patients with HOCM undergoing septal myectomy surgery is associated with increased risk for short-term adverse outcomes. Preoperative pulmonary artery pressure is of prognostic predictive value. Screening for and treating PH before septal myectomy may reduce the risk of complications.

Does pulmonary hypertension affect early-term outcomes of off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery?

This study aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative pulmonary hypertension (PHT) on postoperative early mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). A total of 1107 patients undergoing elective first-time off-pump CABG between January 2011 and April 2022 were included in this retrospective observational cohort study. The patients were categorized into two groups according to their preoperative systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP) values. The PHT group (n=104) consisted of patients with a SPAP value >30 mmHg, while the non-PHT group (n=1003) consisted of patients with a SPAP value ≤30 mmHg. Patients' preoperative demographics and clinical features, operative data, and postoperative outcomes were recorded and then compared between the groups. In the PHT group, the median age was significantly higher (66 vs. 63 years, p=0.001) and the median left ventricular ejection fraction level was significantly lower (45 vs. 50%, p=0.045) as compared to the non-PHT group. Additionally, the PHT group included a significantly greater percentage of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (22.1 vs. 7.4%, p=0.019). As perioperative early-term outcomes, complications, and mortality were considered, the groups were statistically similar, and there were no significant differences between the groups, except for the development of atrial fibrillation. For the first time in the literature, this study revealed that mild PHT (mean SPAP=38.9±8.7 mmHg) did not significantly affect early-term outcomes of off-pump CABG.

Assessment of Reversibility in Pulmonary Hypertension Related to Congenital Heart Disease by Using Biomarkers and Clinical Features

Background: Reversibility of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is closely related to the treatment options for and prognosis of children with congenital heart disease. Objective: We combined patient-specific clinical features including diagnosis, age and echocardiographic results, and biomarkers of pulmonary vascular dysfunction to explore the noninvasive methods that can be used to accurately evaluate the reversibility of pulmonary hypertension in congenital heart disease (PH-CHD). Methods: Based on the preoperative systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP), 70 CHD patients were divided into normal, PH-CHD suspected, and confirmed groups. Additionally, biomarkers of circulating endothelial cells (CECs), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were detected. Patients were categorized into reversible (RPH) and irreversible (IRPH) groups according to the sPAP 6 months after surgery. Risk stratification was performed according to the clinical features and biomarkers. Results: CECs and ET-1 levels in the confirmed group were significantly higher. eNOS was higher in the confirmed and suspected groups than that in the normal group. CECs in the IRPH group were significantly higher compared to the RPH group. No such intergroup differences were observed with respect to ET-1 and eNOS levels. The ROC curve showed that the risk stratification was of high diagnostic value to evaluate reversibility. Conclusion: The CECs, eNOS, and ET-1 were closely related with PH-CHD. CECs and risk stratification have high practical value in assessing the reversibility of PH-CHD.

Preoperative N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide is associated with Fontan outcomes

ObjectiveThe role of preoperative N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide level in patient outcomes after the Fontan operation remains unclear. MethodsThe medical records of all patients who underwent their first Fontan operation from June 2011 to October 2019 in our tertiary referral pediatric cardiac center were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative hemodynamic factors and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide were analyzed to test the association of mortality and morbidity. ResultsWe enrolled 110 patients (men/women 62/48; median age, 4.1 [3.4, 5.8] years; median follow-up period, 4.28 [2.31, 6.71] years). Almost all operations were extracardiac conduits (98.2%). Primary outcomes of death, Fontan takedown, and heart transplantation were observed in 9 patients (8.2%). Abnormal ventricular contractility, elevated preoperative pulmonary artery pressure, high pulmonary vascular resistance index, and high log10 N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide level were associated with poor outcomes. Secondary outcomes: atrioventricular valve regurgitation moderate or greater, elevated pulmonary artery pressure, high pulmonary vascular resistance index, and high log10 N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide level were associated with rehospitalization due to heart failure. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that log10 N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide was the only significant predictor of all primary and secondary outcomes. A scoring system including factors of pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance index, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide was established, and the risk stratification is associated with outcomes after the Fontan operation. ConclusionsHigh preoperative N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide was associated with poor outcomes after the Fontan operation.

Acute Kidney Injury and Renal Replacement Therapy After Fontan Operation

Fontan circulation leads to chronic elevation of central venous pressure. We sought to identify the incidence, risk factors, and survival among patients who developed acute kidney injury (AKI) after the Fontan operation. We retrospectively reviewed 1,166 patients who had Fontan operation/revision at Mayo Clinic Rochester from 1973 to 2017 and identified patients who had AKI (defined by AKI Network criteria) within 7days of surgery. A total of 132 patients (11%) developed AKI after the Fontan operation with no significant era effect. Of those who developed AKI, severe (grade 3) kidney injury was present in 101 patients (76.5%). Multivariable risk factors for AKI were asplenia (odds ratio [OR] 4.2, p <0.0001), elevated preoperative pulmonary artery pressure (per 1 mm Hg increase, OR 1.04, p=0.0002), intraoperative arrhythmias (OR 1.9, p=0.02), and elevated post-bypass Fontan pressure (per 1 mm Hg increase, OR 1.12, p=0.0007). Renal replacement therapy (RRT) was used in 72 patients (54%), predominantly through peritoneal dialysis (n=56, 78%). Multivariable risk factors for RRT were age ≤3years (OR 9.7, p=0.0004), female gender (OR 2.6, p=0.02), and aortic cross-clamp time >60minutes (OR 3.1, p=0.01). Patients with AKI had more postoperative complications, including bleeding, stroke, pericardial tamponade, low cardiac output state and cardiac arrest, than those without AKI. This resulted in longer intensive care unit stay (39 vs 17days, p=0.0001). In-hospital mortality was exceedingly higher among patients with AKI versus no AKI (58%, 76 of 132 vs 10%, 99 of 1,034, p <0.0001); however, there was no significant difference based on the need for RRT. Recovery from AKI was observed in 56 patients (42%). Over 20-year follow-up, patients with AKI had a distinctly higher all-cause-mortality (82%) than those without AKI (35%). It is prudent to identity patients at a higher risk of developing postoperative AKI after Fontan operation to ensure renal protective strategies in the perioperative period. Postoperative AKI leads to substantial short and long-term morbidity and mortality, but the need for RRT does not affect the outcomes.

In Hospital Outcome of Mitral Valve Replacement with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension

Background: In patients undergoing surgery for mitral valve replacement (MVR) for valvular heart disease, pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) has been considered a major risk factor. In this prospective study, we have studied the early hemodynamic changes and post-operative outcomes of MVR among patients with mild to severe PAH in Bangladesh perspective. Methods: Total 60 patients who underwent mitral valve replacement for predominantly mitral regurgitation (MR) and mixed lesion with mitral stenosis (MS) having pulmonary arterial hypertension ranging from mild to severe pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) were studied prospectively for immediate postoperative haemodynamic and outcome. The mean age of the patients was 36.23±9.18 years. Total 13 (21.66%) patients had mitral regurgitation and 47 (78.33%) had mixed lesion with mitral stenosis. Patients were divided into two groups based on preoperative pulmonary artery pressures. Group A patients with mild to moderate pulmonary hypertension (PASP 40-59 mm of Hg) and Group B patients with severe pulmonary hypertension (PASPe” 60 mm of Hg). Results: After mitral valve replacement, pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) decreased significantly in Group A to near normal levels (PASP41.25±7.25). In Group B also the PASP decreased insignificantly (PASP 61.85±9.12) but significant residual PAH remained. Operative mortality was nil (0%) in Group A and 6.7% in Group B. Conclusions: Mitral valve replacement is safe and effective at the presence of PAH as long as the PASP is below or equal to 60 mm of Hg. With PASP &gt;60 mm of Hg, MVR carries a high risk of mortality and the patients continues to have severe PAH in the postoperative period. Cardiovasc j 2021; 14(1): 30-36

Risk Factors for Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation After Pulmonary Endarterectomy: 7 Years' Experience From an Experienced Hospital in China.

Background: Prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) is common after cardiothoracic surgery, whereas the mechanical ventilation strategy after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) has not yet been reported. We aim to identify the incidence and risk factors for PMV and the relationship between PMV and short-term outcomes.Methods: We studied a retrospective cohort of 171 who undergoing PEA surgery from 2014 to 2020. Cox regression with restricted cubic splines was performed to identify the cutoff value for PMV. The Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and logistic regressions were applied to identify risk factors for PMV. The impacts of PMV on the short-term outcomes were evaluated.Results: PMV was defined as the duration of mechanical ventilation exceeding 48 h. Independent risk factors for PMV included female sex (OR 2.911; 95% CI 1.303–6.501; P = 0.009), prolonged deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) time (OR 1.027; 95% CI 1.002–1.053; P = 0.036), increased postoperative blood product use (OR 3.542; 95% CI 1.203–10.423; P = 0.022), elevated postoperative total bilirubin levels (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1.007–1.034; P = 0.002), increased preoperative pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) (OR 1.031; 95% CI 1.014–1.048; P < 0.001) and elongated postoperative right ventricular anteroposterior dimension (RVAD) (OR 1.119; 95% CI 1.026–1.221; P = 0.011). Patients with PMV had longer intensive care unit stays, higher incidences of postoperative complications, and higher in-hospital medical expenses.Conclusions: Female sex, prolonged DHCA time, increased postoperative blood product use, elevated postoperative total bilirubin levels, increased preoperative PAP, and elongated postoperative RVAD were independent risk factors for PMV. Identification of risk factors associated with PMV in patients undergoing PEA may facilitate timely diagnosis and re-intervention for some of these modifiable factors to decrease ventilation time and improve patient outcomes.

Surgical Treatment for Patent Ductus Arteriosus: Our Experience of 12 Years.

IntroductionPatent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart disease that, if left untreated, can lead to pulmonary hypertension, congestive heart failure, and death. Here, we aimed to assess postoperative cardiac hemodynamic changes and surgical techniques, as well as early and late postoperative findings in surgically treated PDA patients.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively analyzed the data belonging to 126 patients whose PDA was surgically closed in our clinic from January 2001 to December 2012. With echocardiography being a standard in diagnosis and follow-up, angiography and computed tomography were also used in the presence of pulmonary hypertension and congenital heart disease, when needed. Postoperative data were compared between isolated PDA patients and those with congenital cardiac deformities.ResultsEvaluating the patients' pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), pulmonary hypertension was detected in 121 patients (96.0%). Preoperative PAP was significantly higher in PDA patients with congenital heart disease compared to the isolated PDA group (p<0.05). PAP decreased significantly in postoperative follow-up in both groups (p<0.05). However, this decrease was faster in the isolated PDA group than in patients with congenital heart disease and right-left shunt accompanying PDA (p<0.05). Regarding the correlation between ductus diameters and preoperative PAP, we found that as ductus diameter increased, PAP increased significantly (p<0.05).ConclusionsIn PDA patients, closing the ductus is necessary to prevent pulmonary and cardiac complications. Surgical closure remains one of the most effective methods for this, although there is little difference between surgical treatment methods in terms of mortality.

Fate of preoperative moderate mitral regurgitation following left ventricular assist device implantation.

We examined for improvements in preoperative moderate mitral regurgitation following continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (cfLVAD) implantation. From 2006 to 2020, 190 patients with moderate MR underwent cfVLAD implant without concomitant mitral valve (MV) surgery. Cardiac dimensions and contractility, as well as valve function, were assessed with an echocardiogram (echo) pre-cfLVAD, and at approximately 1 month post-cfLVAD. Outcomes were determined by retrospective chart review. Median echo follow-up was 0.94 (0.53, 1.38) months. Residual significant moderate or greater MR was present in 30/190 (15.8%) on follow-up. Patients with significant residual MR had larger preoperative left ventricular internal diameters in diastole (74.4 ± 8.7 vs. 71.1.0 ± 9.1 mm, p = .034). Significant residual MR was associated with higher preoperative mean pulmonary artery pressures (OR = 1.055, p = .035) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures (OR = 1.060, p = .034). Significant residual MR on echo was not associated with any survival difference (p = .325). The 1, 5, and 10 year survival were 89.9%, 55.2%, and 34.2%, respectively. For patients with moderate MR undergoing LVAD implantation, the likelihood of significant residual MR is low and mitral intervention in this population is not recommended. However, select patients with larger preoperative left heart dimensions and pulmonary vascular pressures may be at risk for persistent residual MR.

Fontan procedure in patients with preoperative mean pulmonary artery pressure over 15 mmHg.

Several factors affect the long-term outcome of Fontan procedure, but a high pulmonary artery pressure is still one of the most important limitation for proceeding to a Fontan circulation. Herein, we present our experience in Fontan patients with high preoperative pulmonary artery pressures. A retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate Fontan patients with a preoperative pulmonary artery pressure >15 mmHg between 2009 and 2020. Sixteen patients were operated on with a mean preoperative pulmonary artery pressure of 17.5 ± 2.1 mmHg. Mean age at the time of Fontan procedure was 7.8 ± 5.6 years. All the patients had stage 2 cavopulmonary anastomosis before Fontan completion, with a mean interstage period of 4 ± 2.6 years. Fontan completion was achieved with a polytetrafluorethylenetubular conduit, two of which were intra-extracardiac. Fenestration was performed in five(31%) cases. Postoperative pulmonary artery pressures and arterial oxygen saturation levels were 11.2 ± 2.8 and 97.8 ± 2 mmHg, respectively. Mean duration of pleural drainage was 3.9 ± 5.3 days. Any morbidity and mortality were not encountered during a mean follow-up period of 4.8 ± 7.7 years. The midterm results of stage 3 Fontan completion in patients with pulmonary artery >15 mmHg are encouraging. Not only the mean pulmonary artery pressure but also the pulmonary vascular resistance may be helpful in order to identify the high risk patients before Fontan completion.

The systolic pulmonary artery pressure and the E/e’ ratio decrease after septoplasty in patients with grade 2 and 3 pure nasal septal deviation

IntroductionNasal septal deviation may contribute to a wide range of symptoms including nasal obstruction, headache, increased secretion, crusting, mucosal damage, and loss of taste and smell. Excessive increase in the respiratory resistance, as seen in nasal septal deviation, results in reduced lung ventilation, thereby potentially leading to hypoxia, hypercapnia, pulmonary vasoconstriction. The deformities in the nasal cavity can be associated with major respiratory and circulatory system diseases. ObjectiveTo investigate cardiovascular effects of septoplasty by comparing pre- and postoperative transthoracic echocardiography findings in nasal septal deviation patients undergoing septoplasty. MethodsThe prospective study included 35 patients with moderate and severe nasal septal deviation (mean age, 23.91±7.01) who underwent septoplasty. The Turkish version of the nasal obstruction symptom evaluation, NOSE questionnaire, was administered to each participant both pre- and postoperatively in order to assess their views on the severity of nasal septal deviation, the effect of nasal obstruction, and the effectiveness of surgical outcomes. A comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography examination was performed both preoperatively and at three months postoperatively for each patient and the findings were compared among patients. ResultsMean preoperative NOSE score was 17.34±1.62 and the mean postoperative score was 2.62±1.68 (p=0.00). Mean preoperative systolic pulmonary artery pressure value was 22.34±4.31mmHg and postoperative value was 18.90±3.77mmHg (p=0.00). Mean E/e’ ratio was 5.33±1.00 preoperatively and was 5.01±0.90 postoperatively (p=0.01). The NOSE scores, systolic pulmonary artery pressure values, and the E/e’ ratios decreased significantly after septoplasty (p<0.05 for all), whereas no significant difference was found in other transthoracic echocardiography parameters (p>0.05). ConclusionThe decrease in NOSE scores following septoplasty indicated that the satisfaction levels of the patients were increased. Upper airway obstruction secondary to nasal septal deviation may be a cardiovascular risk factor and may affect transthoracic echocardiography measurements. Moreover, the significant decrease in the systolic pulmonary artery pressure value and E/e’s ratio following septoplasty indicated that negative echocardiographic findings may be prevented by this surgery.

Isolated left atrial cryoablation of atrial fibrillation in conventional mitral valve surgery.

Recent trends of surgery for atrial fibrillation (AF) are towards more safe and effective energy sources, as well as to simplified sets of atrial lesions. One hundred eighteen (mean age, 67.4±9.2years) selected patients with paroxysmal/persistent AF and mitral valve (MV) disease underwent cryoablation of AF combined with conventional (not via mini-thoracotomy) MV surgery; the lesion set was limited to only the left atrium. Multivariable analyses identified predictors of cardiac rhythm at hospital discharge and follow-up. There were 7 (5.9%) hospital deaths; 33 (28%) patients were discharged on AF. Higher values of preoperative left atrial volume index (odds ratio [OR]=1.07, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.01-1.13) and mixed etiology of MV disease (OR=4.19, 95%CI: 1.23-14.2) were predictors of hospital discharge on AF. Seventy-four (66.7%) patients were on stable sinus rhythm at follow-up (median period, 6.6years); the 1, 5, and 10-year nonparametric estimates of adjusted freedom from AF were 98.1%, 89.2% and 45.6%, respectively. Higher values of preoperative systolic pulmonary artery pressure (hazard ratio [HR]=HR=1.04, 95%CI: 1.01-1.08) and AF at hospital discharge (HR=4.14, 95%CI: 1.50-11.4) were predictors of AF at follow-up. During conventional MV surgery, a cryo-lesion set limited to only the left atrium may give good, immediate and long-term results. Left atrial dilation and mixed etiology of MV disease were predictors of hospital discharge on AF. Preoperative pulmonary hypertension and AF at discharge combined with an increased risk of AF at follow-up.

Association of Preoperative Mixed Venous Oxygen Saturation with Postoperative Segmental Pulmonary Hypertension in Pulmonary Atresia with Ventricular Septal Defect and Major Aortopulmonary Collaterals.

In patients with pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (PA/VSD/MAPCAs), segmental pulmonary hypertension is common; however, its pathophysiology remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to identify preoperative hemodynamic factors associated with segmental pulmonary hypertension after intracardiac repair in patients with PA/VSD/MAPCAs. This study included 12 patients with PA/VSD/MAPCAs who underwent unifocalization and intracardiac repair from 2009 at our institution. Hemodynamic measurements of preoperative and postoperative cardiac catheterization were collected. Patients were considered to have pulmonary hypertension if the mean pulmonary pressure measured postoperatively at any peripheral pulmonary artery was ≥ 20mmHg. The data were compared between patients with and without postoperative segmental pulmonary hypertension; p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Intracardiac repair was performed at the age of 2.1years (range 0.5-28.2years). Unifocalization was performed separately prior to intracardiac repair in two patients and concomitantly in 10 patients. Postoperative cardiac catheterization, performed 1.2years (range 0.2-8.7years) after intracardiac repair, revealed that five patients had segmental pulmonary hypertension. Patients with postoperative pulmonary hypertension had significantly lower preoperative mixed venous oxygen saturation than those without pulmonary hypertension (57% [55-63%] vs. 65% [53-75%], p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of age at intracardiac repair, preoperative arterial oxygen saturation, and preoperative peripheral pulmonary arterial mean pressure. Lower preoperative mixed venous oxygen saturation was associated with segmental pulmonary hypertension after intracardiac repair in patients with PA/VSD/MAPCAs.

Late tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular remodeling after tricuspid annuloplasty.

The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate the influence of preoperative right ventricular (RV) and tricuspid valve (TV) remodeling on the fate of tricuspid annuloplasty (TA) and right ventricle. From May 2009 to December 2015, 423 patients who had undergone TA for functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) were included in the study. Residual and recurrent TR were defined as moderate or more TR at discharge and follow-up, respectively. RV remodeling was defined as RV dysfunction and/or dilation. Residual TR after TA was recorded in 54 patients (13%). Five-year freedom from TR recurrence was 81% ± 3% in patients without residual TR and 41 ± 8 in patients with residual TR (P < .001). In patients without residual TR, the following risk factors for recurrent TR and late RV remodeling were identified: preoperative systolic pulmonary artery pressure, preoperative RV remodeling, severe preoperative TR or less than severe TR but with TV apparatus remodeling, and etiology of mitral regurgitation. Cox analysis with time-dependent variables confirmed TR recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.1) and late RV remodeling (HR: 6.5) as risk factors for lower survival. No protective effect of either flexible band or rigid ring TA compared with DeVega procedure was found. Similarly, preoperative atrial fibrillation and pacemaker dependency, late failure of mitral valve surgery did not affect the fate of TR. Prophylactic TA should be encouraged among surgeons. TA at the time of left-sided valve surgery should take into consideration not only annular size, but also tethering severity and RV remodeling.