Prolonged Aortic Cross-clamp Time Research Articles

Comparison of early postoperative left ventricular function with 3d ef and strain measurements according to graft selection

BackgroundGraft choices other than left anterior descending artery (LAD)–internal thoracic artery (ITA) anastomosis in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery are still controversial. Although 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE) is still the most commonly used method, more is needed to diagnose myocardial dysfunction. Ventricular strain values obtained by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) or tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) methods can much better detect subclinical changes. This study aims to detect early postoperative myocardial function changes compared to single ITA/Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery (BITA) use by measuring 3-dimensional ejection fraction (3D EF) and ventricular strain values and comparing them according to graft preference.MethodsThe study included 35 isolated CABG patients. All patients underwent on-pump CABG via sternotomy. The patients were divided into two groups using single ITA and BITA. Preoperative and postoperative 1st-week 3D EF and ventricular strain values of the patients were calculated using semi-automatic software. The recorded data were compared and evaluated between the two groups.ResultsOf The 35 patients participating in the study, 74.3% (n = 26) were male, 25.7% (n = 9) were female, and their average age was 62.7 ± 7.9 years. Preoperative 3D EF values of the patients were 54.4 ± 8.3% and postoperative 49.5 ± 8.2%. The mean preoperative Apical Long Axis Longitudinal Strain (APLAX LS) was calculated as − 16.2 ± 5.0%, 4 Chambers Longitudinal Strain (4CH LS)–16.8 ± 4.6%, 2 Chambers Longitudinal Strain (2CH LS) − 17.0 ± 4.9%, and Global Longitudinal Ventricular Strain (GLVS) − 16.7 ± 4.2%. Postoperative strain values were measured as − 15.1 ± 4.8%, − 14.7 ± 4.9%, − 14.6 ± 5.6% and − 14.8 ± 4.6%, respectively. When the groups were evaluated within themselves, the mean preoperative 3D EF of the patients in the single ITA group was 52.5 ± 8.8%, while the postoperative mean was 47.7 ± 6.0%. In the BITA group, preoperative 3D EF was 56.3 ± 7.5 and postoperative 51.4 ± 9.8. A decrease in strain values was detected in all groups except APLAX planes.ConclusionsIn our study, no statistically significant difference was observed in terms of myocardial function changes according to the use of ITA/BITA. However, the decline in postoperative strain values of patients in the BITA group was more remarkable, and it was thought that this may be due to prolonged aortic cross clamp (CC) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) times.

Outcomes of Del Nido and hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery with prolonged aortic cross clamp times.

Background The utility and uptake of Del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery is rapidly increasing. Cases with prolonged aortic cross clamp times necessitate multi dosing however an understanding of safe ischaemic times and definitive guidelines in this domain are lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of our DNC strategy by comparing post-operative troponin profiles and clinical outcomes between del Nido and hyperkalaemic cardioplegia for cases with aortic cross clamp times of greater than 90 minutes. Methods A single centre, retrospective cohort study at Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders Private Hospital of patients undergoing composite cardiac surgery with a cross clamp time longer than 90 minutes. Data was prospectively collected from the Flinders Cardiac Surgery Registry from June 2014 to December 2022. A propensity matched (1:1) analysis was performed comparing patients receiving del Nido cardioplegia (n=194) to those receiving hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia (n=194). Primary outcome was the post-operative troponin release profile with clinical events reported as secondary outcomes . Results There was no difference in the peak or median troponin at 6, 12 and 72 hours nor number of patients with positive troponin profile post operatively between cohorts. There was no difference in clinical outcomes between groups with aortic cross clamp times of 90min which remained true in Sensitivity analysis extending out to 120min. The Del Nido cohort received less cardioplegia volume (p <0.001) and were more likely to return to spontaneous rhythm (p <0.002). Conclusion Del Nido cardioplegia for anticipated aortic cross clamp times of greater than 90min provided equivocal post operative troponin profiles and clinical outcomes compared to multidose hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia.

Risk factors of 30-day and long-term mortality and outcomes in open repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm

BackgroundOpen repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) was characterized by significant risk of postoperative mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to determine the perioperative predictors of early and long-term mortality in patients undergoing open repair of TAAA. Besides, the postoperative outcomes in patients with open repair of TAAA were described.MethodsThis is a single-center retrospective study, and 146 patients with open repair of TAAA from January 4, 2011, to November 22, 2018 was involved. Categorical variables were analyzed by the Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, and continuous variables were analyzed by the independent sample t-test and the WilCoxon rank-sum test. Multivariate Logistic regression and Cox regression were applied to identify the predictors of 30-day and long-term mortality, respectively. The Kaplan Meier curves were used to illustrate survival with the Log-rank test.ResultsThe 30-day mortality was 9.59% (n = 14). Older than 50 years, the intraoperative volume of red blood cell (RBC) and epinephrine use were independently associated with postoperative 30-day mortality in open repair of TAAA. Long-term mortality was 17.12% (n = 25) (median of 3.5 years (IQR = 2–5 years) of follow-up). Prior open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair, aortic cross-clamping (ACC) time, intraoperative volume of RBC and use of epinephrine were independently correlated with long-term mortality.ConclusionsIdentifying perioperative risk factors of early and long-term mortaliy is crucial for surgeons. Intraoperative volume of RBC and use of epinephrine were predictors of both early and long-term mortality. In addition, patients of advanced age, prior open repair of TAAA and prolonged ACC time should be paid more attention.

Post-coronary Artery Bypass Graft Complications; Potential Causes and Risk Factors

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide despite the coexistence of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Current emergency management involves revascularization of the coronary arteries. Aims: Retrospectively evaluate the association between the used number of shunts and postoperative complications. Objectives: Several complications are reported after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, such as postoperative arrhythmia and postoperative stroke. However, the risk factors for the development remain not elaborated. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study involved 290 patients for the period 2017-2021 treated surgically for ischemic heart disease. The surgery includes shunts of the internal thoracic arteries with the post-occlusion coronary arteries. The number of shunts is varied depending on the size and number of occluded arteries. According to the number of shunts, the patient may be operated on with artificial circulation (CPB; cardiopulmonary bypass), or without a working heart (OFF pump; without artificial circulation. For statistical analysis, T-test, one-way ANOVA test, X2 test, COX proportional hazards, and Pearson correlation test were used by using the Statistica program. Results: The most frequently reported complication is postoperative hydrothorax, in 28 (11.20%) patients. Patients with post-CABG LV aneurysm had a longer CPB time and aortic cross-clamp time, t-value -5.58113, p < 0.000000; t-value -4.72802, p < 0.000004, respectively. Patients with postoperative hydrothorax with low BMI and longer CPB and Aortic cross-clamp time, t-value of-2.33929, p <0.020021; t-value 3.83233, P < 0.000157; t-value 2.71109, p < 0.007119, respectively. Subsequently, post-operative hydrothorax increases the intensive care unit (ICU) and total hospitalization days, t-value 5.80811, p < 0.000000; t-value 7.37431, p < 0.000000, respectively. Patients who have preoperative progressive angina have a higher number of complications, t-value of 2.108504, p < 0.035866. Post-myocardial infarction patients with myocardial sclerosis (PMIMS) have a higher number of complications, t value of 2.516784, p < 0.012396. A direct correlation between the number of complications and age/CPB time/ aortic cross-clamp time/ICU hospitalization days/total hospitalization days, r= 0.138565, 0.204061, 0.162078, 0.487048, 0.408381; respectively. Conclusion: Postoperative complication rate associated with the pre-existence of progressive angina and PMIMS. Elderly people undergoing CABG are at higher risk of psychosis, arrhythmia, longer total and ICU hospitalization days, and stroke. Advanced age, longed CPB time, prolonged aortic cross-clamp time, long ICU hospitalisation, and long total hospitalization days are risks of more frequent post-CABG complications. Others: The number of complications is not associated with the dead and alive status of patients or with the number of shunts.

The Arterial Switch Operation in the Developing World: Risk Factors and Current Outcomes

BackgroundPublished data on the outcomes of the arterial switch operation in the developing world are limited. We sought to identify the midterm outcomes of and risk factors for mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing the arterial switch operation at a high-volume center in Vietnam. MethodsA retrospective review was conducted of 608 patients who underwent an arterial switch operation for the treatment of transposition of the great arteries (TGA; n = 509) or double-outlet right ventricle TGA (DORV-TGA; n = 99) at a single center from 2010 to 2021. ResultsOverall early mortality was 5.9%, and late mortality was 1%. Multivariate Cox regression showed weight at operation of <3 kg (P < .001), prolonged aortic cross-clamp time (P < .001), and need for secondary aortic cross-clamp (P = .011) as risk factors for overall mortality. The actuarial 10-year survival rate was 93%. The overall cardiac reoperation rate was significantly higher in patients with DORV-TGA (hazard ratio [HR], 16.43; 95% CI, 4.70-57.43; P < .001). The rate of freedom from cardiac reoperation at 10 years was 94%. Risk factors for outflow tract reoperation were patients with DORV-TGA (HR, 23.28; 95% CI, 2.86-189.66; P = .003), single coronary artery (HR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.16-14.46; P = .028), and mild aortic valve regurgitation observed in 3.7% of patients. ConclusionsThe outcomes of the arterial switch operation in a low- and middle-income country were satisfactory. Nevertheless, the complexity of the procedure and lower weight of patients are still challenges. Patients with DORV-TGA and single coronary artery need to be closely followed up.

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery in low-resource settings: right vertical infra-axillary mini-thoracotomy without peripheral cannulation - the first 100 cases.

Literature is scarce on minimally invasive cardiac surgery in adults with a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy approach without using peripheral cannulation. This study aimed to analyze the perioperative, early outcomes of minimally invasive cardiac surgery with direct vision using central aortic-venous cannulation through a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy, vs. standard cardiac surgery with median sternotomy. This retrospective study included the first 100 adult patients who were operated on via right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy and central aortic and venous cannulation. The control group comprised 100 adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery through a median sternotomy and central aortic and venous cannulation. The thoracotomy group was associated with prolonged aortic cross-clamp time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, and operation time. The amount of postoperative chest tube drainage and blood transfusion was higher in the sternotomy group. No difference was found between the groups in terms of postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Despite a higher level of pain in the thoracotomy group on the first 3 postoperative days, patient satisfaction was higher in this group. In a resource-limited setting, minimally invasive cardiac surgery with direct vision using central aortic-venous cannulation through a right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy may help to establish minimally invasive cardiac surgery with better cosmetic results, and higher patient satisfaction compared to the median sternotomy approach. Outcomes during the learning curve were similar.

Correlation between Prolonged Aortic Cross Clamp and New Onset Cardiac Arrhythmia after Cardiac Surgery

Objectives: Cardiac arrhythmia involves a wide range of abnormalities associated with heart rhythm and rate disorders. It mainly refers to an irregular rhythm of the heart. It has been demonstrated through various clinical studies that aortic cross-clamp time during cardiac surgeries are independent predictors of the morbidity and mortality, and prolonged cross-clamp (XCL) time have been linked to the low cardiac output. Present study was aimed to examine the correlation between the prolonged aortic cross clamp time (XCL) in low-risk patients and the incidence of cardiac arrhythmia during cardiac surgery within 48 hours postoperatively. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out from March 2020 to February 2021 including 100 patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery as low-risk patients. The duration of XCL and new-onset cardiac arrhythmia was monitored within the first 48 hours postoperatively. Result: This study revealed a significant relationship between new onset Arrhythmia and prolonged cross clamp time (more than 90 min). It also revealed a weak correlation (r = 0.26) between the aortic cross clamp time and new onset of cardiac arrhythmia after cardiac surgery (average XCL time 60 min). Therefore, this study suggested XCL time one of important predictors of cardiac arrhythmia postoperatively. Conclusion: Prolonged aortic cross-clamp time was found to minimally affect the incidence of arrhythmia in cardiac surgery within 48-hour post-operatively in low-risk cardiac patients. Patients with cross clamp time of over 90min were observed to be the most affected by the Arrhythmia with a high prevalence rate, which further buttress on the fact that extended/prolonged XCL affect cardiac arrhythmia after cardiac surgery.

Prospective analysis of pacing requirements following cardiac surgery

Background: Post-operative conduction abnormalities are one of the complications occur after cardiac surgery, which can occasionally lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Conduction abnormalities can occur during and immediately after cardiac surgery, most commonly in valve operations. Possible mechanisms include injury to conduction apparatus during decalcification, injury from the sutures, needles and post-operative edema around the conduction system due to injury to surrounding tissues. Most of the pacing requirement is often temporary with only a small proportion of patients requiring permanent pacing. This study was conducted to study incidence of pacing requirements following cardiac surgery and to identify possible risk factors contributing to post-operative cardiac pacing. Methods: In this study, all relevant data are collected from patients who met the criteria for the study which includes pre-operatively relevant history and routine investigations were done. Intra-operative data were collected and post-operatively – routine blood and cardiac investigations were done on the day of surgery and on alternate days thereafter. The onset of new arrhythmias and the need for pacing are recorded. Results: In this study, of 350 patients who underwent various types of cardiac surgeries, only 79 (22.6%) patients required temporary pacing of the heart with the temporary pacing wire. Of these, only 1 (0.29%) patient was pacing dependent and requiring permanent pacemaker implantation. Conclusions: In the study, the factors predicting post-operative pacing requirement were the presence of pre-operative atrial fibrillation, moderate to severe calcification of valves, surgeries performed using cardiopulmonary bypass with prolonged aortic cross-clamp time.

Retained peripherally inserted central catheter guidewire with vegetation.

Sir, Central venous cannulation is often a necessity for patients in intensive care units or in patients with difficult peripheral access. Loss of the guidewire is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication with reports of fatalities in up to 20% of cases, when the complete guide wire is lost.[1] A 2-year 3-month-old female child presented to our institute with chief complaints of poor weight gain, abdominal discomfort, and decrease in appetite. Chest X-ray of the patient showed a radio-dense wire extending into inferior vena cava (IVC) and right atrium [Figure 1]. Patient had a history of hospital admission at the age of 8 months for jaundice. Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) was inserted at that hospital in right femoral vein due to difficult peripheral venous cannulation. PICC line was kept for 12 days and later it was removed. Later on, patient presented to our institute with above mentioned complaints. Computerised tomography (CT) scan showed evidence of a linear radio-dense wire extending from infrarenal IVC into the right ventricle. Its tip was seen in the superior vena cava suggestive of foreign material [Figure 1b]. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a hyperechoic mobile structure of size 20 × 10 mm (possibly a vegetation) in the right atrium having attachment to the superior vena cava and IVC with to-and-fro movement across tricuspid valve and near total occlusion of IVC by hyperechoic structure till mid abdomen level [Video 1]. Moderate to severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) was seen on transthoracic echocardiography. Surgical removal of PICC guidewire was planned. Complete blood count, serum electrolytes, coagulation profile, liver, and kidney function tests were done preoperatively. Preoperative electrocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia and nonspecific ST-T wave changes. The open surgical repair was planned under hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypassFigure 1: (a) Chest X-.Ray PA view showing a radio dense wire extending into inferior vena cava and right atrium. (b) Computerised tomography scan showing evidence of a linear Ra: Right atrium dense wire extending from infrarenal IVC, extending into right ventricle and the tip is seen in superior vena cava suggesting foreign material. (c) Guidewire with vegetation. (d) Right atrium opened with blocked IVC. IVC: Inferior vena cava {"href":"Single Video Player","role":"media-player-id","content-type":"play-in-place","position":"float","orientation":"portrait","label":"Video Clip 1","caption":"","object-id":[{"pub-id-type":"doi","id":""},{"pub-id-type":"other","content-type":"media-stream-id","id":"1_0bc3rv32"},{"pub-id-type":"other","content-type":"media-source","id":"Kaltura"}]} Patient was induced with general anaesthesia and endotracheal intubation carried out after injecting fentanyl 5 mg/kg, midazolam 0.1 mg/kg, and vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg. Five lead electrocardiogram, invasive arterial blood pressure, central venous pressure, temperature, end tidal carbon dioxide, pulse oximetry, and urine output were monitored intraoperatively. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was established after cannulating ascending aorta and right atrium. Total circulatory arrest was initiated. Right atrium was opened and removal of guidewire with vegetation from right atrial wall and tricuspid valve leaflet were done [Figure 1c and 1d]. Tricuspid valve was checked for tricuspid regurgitation and anteroseptal commissuroplasty was done. Post repair, moderate to severe tricuspid regurgitation was present. CPB was instituted again, and tricuspid valve was repaired. After complete rewarming, patient was weaned off CPB uneventfully. 180 ml of packed red blood cells was transfused intraoperatively. Total duration of surgery was four hours. Patient was shifted to paediatric intensive care unit and was extubated on second postoperative day. Complications pertaining to the retained guide wire include complete loss of wire, injury to the vessel from the wire, fracture of the wire, and bleeding.[1–5] Patients undergoing foreign body removal pose a challenge for the anaesthesiologist as there can be risk of arrhythmia, bleeding causing haemodynamic instability, prolonged aortic cross clamp time, and postbypass myocardial dysfunction. Percutaneous retrieval was not possible in this case due to the extent of guide wire with associated vegetation and risk of its embolisation. Therefore, decision was made for surgical plan to remove guide wire under cardiopulmonary bypass. This case highlights the importance of formulating a plan for the anaesthetic management of patients undergoing guidewire removal and preparedness for postoperative management. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.

Risk factors for femoral-to-radial artery pressure gradient after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass: a historical cohort study.

After weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the radial artery pressure is frequently lower than the central pressure as reflected by femoral pressure. This discrepancy may cause improper blood pressure management. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the risk factors related to developing a significant postbypass femoral-to-radial pressure gradient, including the incidence of complications related to femoral pressure monitoring. From January 2017 to May 2021, we studied consecutive adult cardiovascular surgical patients undergoing CPB in a historical cohort study. Patients were divided into two groups according to developing a significant femoral-to-radial pressure gradient, which was defined as a difference of ≥ 25 mm Hg for systolic pressure or ≥ 10 mm Hg for mean pressure, lasting ≥ 5 minutes for 30 minutes after CPB weaning. Factors associated with a significant pressure gradient and femoral pressure monitoring-related complications were analyzed. Among 2,019 patients, 677 (34%) showed a significant postbypass femoral-to-radial pressure gradient. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed the following factors related to the pressure gradient development: age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] for an increase in 10 years, 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 to 1.09; P < 0.001), body surface area (BSA) (aOR for an increase in 1 m2, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.21; P < 0.001), aortic cross-clamping time (aOR for an increase in 30 minutes, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.08; P < 0.001), and intraoperative epinephrine use (aOR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.95; P < 0.001). The femoral pressure monitoring-related complications were observed in 11/2,019 (0.5%) patients. Our study showed that old age, smaller BSA, prolonged aortic cross-clamping time, and intraoperative epinephrine use were associated with developing a significant postbypass femoral-to-radial pressure gradient in cardiovascular surgery. Considering monitoring-related complications occurred very infrequently, it might be helpful to monitor both radial and femoral pressure simultaneously in patients with these risk factors for appropriate blood pressure management. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to confirm our findings because our results are limited by a retrospective design and residual confounding factors.

Surgical Outcomes for Children with Anomalous Origin of the Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery.

Objective of this study is to summarize surgical outcomes of patients with anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) in a single center. The clinical data of 89 children undergoing surgical treatment in Beijing Children's Hospital from January 2007 to January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. seven patients underwent ECMO support for acute left heart failure after operation, and 2 patients were discharged after weaning successfully. Eight patients died in the early postoperative period, all of them were infants, of which 5 patients underwent ECMO support, 2 patients died of cerebral hemorrhage, 2 patients died of multiple organ dysfunction, and 4 patients died of left heart failure. Three patients died late, 3 patients were lost to follow-up, and 78 patients (96.3%) completed long-term follow-up. A logistic regression model multivariate analysis showed that postoperative moderate or severe mitral regurgitation (MR) (OR 26.948 P = 0.024) and prolonged aortic cross-clamp time (OR 1.038 P = 0.050) were independent risk factors of early mortality. Compared with the Non-MVP group (20/36), the MVP group (patients with moderate or severe MR who underwent MVP at the same time) (16/36) had more significant improvement in early postoperative LEVEF [(50.68 ± 13.85)% vs (40.50 ± 13.58)% P = 0.033] and had a lower proportion of moderate or severe MR after operation (2/16 vs 11/20 P = 0.014). Children with ALCAPA can obtain a good prognosis by reconstructing the blood supply of both coronary arteries. Mitral valvuloplasty (MVP) is more helpful in improving the prognosis of children with moderate or severe MR and mitral valve structural disease. Reasonable placement of ECMO can help reduce the mortality of critically ill children after operation, but be alert to complications in the central system.

Mid-Term Outcomes of Primary Arterial Switch Operation for Taussig-Bing Anomaly

To identify risk factors associated with mortality and reintervention on primary arterial switch operation for Taussig-Bing anomaly in 225 cases over a 16-year period. From 2002 to 2017, 225 children with Taussig-Bing anomaly received a primary arterial switch operation at the Shanghai Children's Medical Center. Perioperative data and follow-up results were collected. Univariate and multivariable analysis was used to explore risk factors associated with early mortality. The competing risk analysis was used to identify risk factors related to reintervention. Early mortality was 12.9% (29/225) with a satisfactory long-term survival rate (10-year survival rate 85.0%). The median age at repair was 77 days (interquartile range, IQR, 48-139). The median duration of follow-up was 4.6 (range 0.1-18.3) years. 87 children (38.7%) received concomitant aortic arch repair. Prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time (a-OR 1.18, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-1.28, p < 0.001) is found to be an independent risk factor for early death. Larger weight at repair tends to be a protective factor (a-OR 0.66, 95% CI, 0.425-1.02, p=0.060) and intramural coronary artery (a-OR 4.81, 95% CI, 0.927-24.9, p=0.062) tends to be a risk factor for early mortality. The cumulative incidence rate of overall reintervention was 18.9% (95% CI, 10.3%-27.4%) at 5 years and 32.3% (95% CI, 17,0%-47.6%) at 10 years. No independent risk factors were identified for long-term overall reintervention. Prolonged aortic-cross clamp time was an independent risk factor for long-term right-sided reintervention (adjusted hazard ratio [a-HR] 1.12, 95% CI 1.005-1.25, p=0.041). Neo-aortic regurgitation was a concern with an incidence rate of moderate or greater neo-AR of 16.1 % (95% CI 7.6%-24.7%) at 10 years. Intramural coronary artery remains a surgical challenge in primary arterial switch operation for the Taussig-Bing anomaly. Larger weight at ASO tends to be a protective factor for early death. Reintervention is frequently necessary but can be performed with satisfactory results.

Efficacy of del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac procedures with prolonged aortic crossclamp time

ObjectiveEquivalent myocardial protection and clinical outcomes have been shown with the use of del Nido cardioplegia (DC) compared with blood cardioplegia (BC) in adult isolated coronary artery bypass grafting and valve patients. However, its safety and efficacy in cardiac procedures with aortic crossclamp times >90 minutes is still unknown. MethodsFrom May 2014 to September 2019, 2506 adult patients at our center underwent cardiac surgery requiring prolonged aortic crossclamp time defined as 90 minutes or longer. Myocardial protection was achieved with BC in 1955 patients and DC in 551 patients. Two surgeons used DC exclusively and 5 used blood exclusively over the study period. BC was delivered anterograde and retrograde whereas DC was delivered anterograde only. Propensity score matching of several preoperative characteristics, including primary cardiac pathology, yielded 526 well matched pairs. Emergency and reoperative cases were included. Troponin T levels were drawn at 12 hours postoperative in all patients. Clinical data were extracted from our local Society of Thoracic Surgeons database. Subgroup analyses were performed on the basis of crossclamp time stratification. ResultsFor the propensity score-matched cohort, the median crossclamp time was longer in the BC compared with the DC group (114 [interquartile range (IQR), 100-145] minutes for DC vs 153 [IQR, 122-200] minutes for BC; P < .0001) whereas intraoperative peak glucose was higher with BC (173 [IQR, 147-200] g/dL for DC vs 197 [IQR, 171-228] g/dL for BC; P < .001). In addition, perioperative mortality (3.4% vs 3.0%; P = .7273), stroke (3.2% vs 2.1%; P = .2504), renal failure (6.5% vs 4.6%; P = .1767), atrial fibrillation (34% vs 31.4%, P = .3575), intra-aortic balloon pump use (5.3% vs 4.6%, P = .5694), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use (3.0% vs 2.9%, P = .8596) did not differ between DC and BC. Postoperative troponin T levels were 0.53 (IQR, 0.30-0.96) ng/mL and 0.62 (IQR, 0.38-1.07) ng/mL for DC and BC, respectively (P = .0024). Subgroup analysis revealed higher troponin T levels with DC for crossclamp times between 150 and 180 minutes. Survival rates at 1, 2, and 5 years were 93.3%, 91.1%, and 78.7% for DC and 94.5%, 91.8%, and 81.5% for BC, respectively (P = .5140). ConclusionsIn adult cardiac surgical procedures with aortic crossclamp times >90 minutes, comparable myocardial protection, perioperative mortality and morbidity, and distant survival were observed with the use of DC compared with BC. Higher troponin levels were seen in DC patients with crossclamp times between 150 and 180 minutes, but this was not associated with increased mortality.

Propensity-Matched Analysis of Del Nido Cardioplegia in Adults Undergoing Cardiac Surgery with Prolonged Cross-Clamping Time.

There is not enough data in the literature regarding the safety and efficiency of del Nido cardioplegia in patients with prolonged cross-clamping time. This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of del Nido cardioplegia compared to cold blood cardioplegia in patients with prolonged aortic cross-clamping time. In this retrospective study, patients with an aortic cross-clamping time ≥ 90 minutes were included. One hundred consecutive adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery using del Nido cardioplegia comprised the study group, and 100 consecutive adult patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures using cold blood cardioplegia comprised the control group. Propensity score matching yielded 88 del Nido cardioplegia and 88 cold blood cardioplegia patients. There were no significant differences when comparing the matched groups regarding the requirement for intraoperative defibrillation, postoperative peak troponin T levels, inotropic support, intra-aortic balloon pump requirement, and left ventricular ejection fraction at discharge and on the sixth postoperative month; also, there were no significant differences when comparing cardiopulmonary bypass time and total operation time. Mean cross-clamping time was significantly shorter in the del Nido group (P&lt;0.001). Del Nido cardioplegia may be a safe alternative to cold blood cardioplegia in adults undergoing cardiac surgical procedures with prolonged aortic cross-clamping time.

Del Nido Cardioplegia in Ascending Aortic Surgery

Del Nido cardioplegia offers equivalent myocardial protection and clinical outcomes to blood cardioplegia in adult isolated CABG and valve patients, but the safety and efficacy of del Nido in complex cases with prolonged aortic cross-clamp times is still unknown. 443 patients at our center underwent replacement of the ascending aorta using either del Nido (n=182) or blood (n=261) cardioplegia. Two surgeons used del Nido exclusively and 6 used blood exclusively over the study period. Propensity matching of preoperative characteristics yielded 172 well matched pairs. Emergency and reoperative cases were included. Clinical data were extracted from our local database. Troponin levels were drawn at 12 hours postop in all patients. Rates of perioperative mortality (4.7% vs 5.2%), stroke (5.8% vs 7.0%), renal failure (11.6% vs 12.2%), atrial fibrillation (36.0% vs 31.4%), intra-aortic balloon pump insertion (2.3% vs1.2%), and extra corporeal membrane oxygenation use (4.7% vs 4.1%) did not differ between blood and del Nido groups. Postop Troponin T levels were 0.50[0.35, 0.86] ng/mL and 0.40[0.20, 0.70] ng/mL for blood and del Nido, respectively (P < 0.0001). Postop echocardiography was available in 333 of 344 (96.8%) patients, and there was no difference in change in EF from pre- to postop between blood 0.0[-6.0, 5.0]% and del Nido 0.0 [-6.0, 3.5]% (P=0.201). Subgroup analysis of patients with aortic cross-clamp time greater than 180 minutes (blood=77, del Nido=27) revealed no difference in troponins, ejection fraction, or clinical outcomes. Five-year survival was 85.9[76.8, 91.7]% and 79.8[71.2, 86.1]% for blood and del Nido, respectively (P=0.151). In ascending aortic surgery with prolonged operative times, no differences were observed in myocardial protection or clinical outcomes with the use of del Nido cardioplegia compared to blood cardioplegia.

Factors Associated with Early Postoperative Results of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection Repair: Findings from Retrospective Single-Institution Data in Vietnam.

IntroductionThere are scanty reports of the risk factors for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and low cardiac output syndrome after the operative repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC). We aim to evaluate early surgical outcomes of TAPVC and risk factors for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and low cardiac output syndrome.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective medical record review for all patients undergoing operative repair of TAPVC within 5 years. Outcome variables included pulmonary hypertensive crisis, low cardiac output syndrome and early mortality.ResultsOf 58 patients, we documented 77.59% supracardiac, 20.69% cardiac and 1.72% mixed site of connection. About 86.21% patients underwent elective surgery, and 13.79% patients required emergency surgery. Incidence rates were 27.59% for pulmonary hypertensive crisis and 6.90% for low cardiac output syndrome. Body weight below 6 kg, pneumonia, tachycardia, hepatomegaly, preoperative pulmonary congestion on chest x-ray, preoperative elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure, preoperative pulmonary venous obstruction, emergency surgery and prolonged aortic cross-clamping time were significant risk factors for postoperative pulmonary hypertensive crisis. Significant risk factors for postoperative low cardiac output syndrome included pneumonia, prolonged duration of preoperative mechanical ventilation and prolonged aortic cross-clamping time.ConclusionThe early outcome of surgical repair of TAPVC was acceptable, with 96.55% survival rate. This current analysis suggests that a thorough evaluation of all preoperative and operative characteristics is imperative to achieve best medical and surgical outcomes.

English

BACKGROUND The del Nido cardioplegia was devised and introduced as a single dose cardioplegia for myocardial protection in congenital heart surgery by Petro del Nido and team. The most commonly used cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery was multidose blood cardioplegia which has to be repeated every 25 to 30 minutes to maintain cardiac arrest. For this, the surgery has to be interrupted leading to prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross clamp time. With promising results of del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery, more and more centres adopted this single dose cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery. We retrospectively analysed the safety and efficacy of del Nido cardioplegia and compared them with those of conventional blood cardioplegia in isolated coronary artery bypass surgery. METHODS We have been using multidose conventional blood cardioplegia (CBCP) solution for all our cardiac surgeries. We changed the cardioplegia protocol to single dose del Nido cardioplegia (DNCP) solution in October 2016. We collected the preoperative, intraoperative and post-operative data of 100 patients in each group, who underwent elective isolated coronary artery bypass surgery. RESULTS The baseline demographic features, pre- and post-operative cardiac function, number of coronary arteries involved, and comorbidities were similar in both groups. There was a statistically significant reduction in cardiopulmonary bypass time (77.16 ± 13.13 minutes vs. 121.69 ± 28.18 minutes, P-value &lt; .00001) and aortic cross clamp time (57.71 ± 10.6 minutes vs. 77.26 ± 20.29 minutes, p value &lt; .00001) in the DNCP group. The total dose of cardioplegia solution required was significantly less in DNCP group (1000 mL vs. 2393.56 ± 592.42 mL, P-value &lt; .00001). The mean post-operative hospital stay in DNCP group was 7.87 ± 1.25 days as compared to 12.49 ± 1.29 days in CBCP group with a P-value &lt; .00001. CONCLUSIONS The del Nido cardioplegia solution is associated with shorter cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross clamp time, less volume of cardioplegia solution and shorter mean hospital stay. The del Nido cardioplegia can be used in adult cardiac surgery with the same safety of conventional blood cardioplegia in adult isolated coronary artery bypass surgery. KEYWORDS Del Nido Cardioplegia, Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery, Myocardial Protection, Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time, Aortic Cross Clamp Time

Investigation of Risk Factors Related to the Development of Hepatic Dysfunction in Patients with a Low and Moderate Cardiac Risk During Open-Heart Surgeries.

ObjectiveTo determine the possible risk factors associated with hepatic dysfunction during open-heart surgeries.MethodsAfter excluding 71 patients, 307 patients with possible low and moderate cardiac risk who underwent either coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) (n=176) or valve repair surgery (mitral valve, mitral and aortic valves and/or tricuspid valve) (n=131) were investigated prospectively during a 6-month period. Hyperbilirubinemia is defined as an occurrence of a plasma total bilirubin concentration >34 µmol/L (2 mg/dL) in any measurement during the postoperative period; the patients were divided into groups with or without postoperative hyperbilirubinemia. The collected parameters were: alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TBil), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and albumin. The parameters were collected preoperatively and postoperatively on days 1, 3 and 7. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative risk factors were investigated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for postoperative hyperbilirubinemia.ResultsPostoperative hyperbilirubinemia was observed in 7 of 176 patients (4%) who underwent CABG, and in 11 of 131 patients (8.4%) who underwent valve replacement surgeries. Independent risk factors for early postoperative hyperbilirubinemia were found as: ejection fraction (EF), aortic cross-clamp (ACC) time, intensive care unit stay and extubation time (P<0.001). In comparison to CABG procedures, postoperative hyperbilirubinemia was observed more frequently in patients undergoing valve surgeries (P=0.027).ConclusionLow EF and prolonged ACC time are significant independent risk factors for early postoperative hyperbilirubinemia during open-heart surgeries with cardiopulmonary bypass. Valve surgeries show a higher incidence of hyperbilirubinemia in comparison to CABG.

Predictors of early mortality after surgical treatment of infective endocarditis: a single-center experience.

Surgical management of infective endocarditis continues to be challenging and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The objective of our study was to determine the risk factors and conditions associated with poor early infective endocarditis surgical treatment outcomes-30-day postoperative mortality. A total of 124 patients who underwent surgery for infective endocarditis at the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kaunas Clinics from January 2010 to December 2017 were retrospectively included in this study. The primary endpoints were 30-day postoperative mortality and identification of risk factors associated with it. Secondary endpoints were early postoperative outcomes and complication rates. During the study period, 124 patients with infective endocarditis underwent cardiac surgery, presenting an overall 30-day postoperative mortality rate of 10.48%. Mean age was 58 ± 14.4 years with 95 (76.61%) males. Independent predictive factors of early mortality were age >63 years (odds ratio = 6.4, 95% confidence interval = 1.66-24.66, p = 0.003), body mass index >30 kg/m² (odds ratio = 7.74, 95% confidence interval = 2.20-27.27, p = 0.003), and ischemic heart disease (odds ratio, 6.6, 95% confidence interval = 1.62-26.90, p = 0.003), as well as intraoperative parameters-prolonged aortic cross-clamp >84.5 minutes (odds ratio = 3.79, 95% confidence interval = 1.10-13.08, p = 0.03) and cardiopulmonary bypass time >107.5 minutes (odds ratio = 10.0, 95% confidence interval = 1.26-79.58, p = 0.023). Staphylococcus aureus infection (odds ratio = 5.04, 95% confidence interval = 1.29-19.64, p = 0.012), infective endocarditis-related intracardiac complication such as paravalvular abscess detected by transesophageal echocardiography (odds ratio = 4.32, 95% confidence interval = 1.31-14.25, p = 0.01), and infective endocarditis complicated by septic or cardiogenic shock (odds ratio, 18.43, 95% confidence interval = 4.59-73.98, p = 0.001) were statistically significant factors for increased risk of 30-day postoperative mortality. Surgical treatment of infective endocarditis showed good results in our center. The independent predictors of 30-day postoperative mortality for patients who underwent cardiac surgery for infective endocarditis were age, body mass index, ischemic heart disease, prolonged aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass time, Staphylococcus aureus infection, paravalvular abscess, and septic or cardiogenic shock.

Large-vessel occlusion stroke after cardiothoracic surgery: Expanding time windows offer new salvage opportunities

ObjectivesIschemic stroke due to large-vessel occlusion (LVO) is a complication after cardiothoracic surgery (CTS). Recently published endovascular stroke trials have major implications for treating LVO strokes; we evaluated our experience in patients undergoing CTS. MethodsOur prospective institutional CTS database was reviewed between July 2013 and April 2018 for ischemic strokes. Patients with LVO were identified and their course and outcomes analyzed. ResultsA total of 5947 patients were reviewed; 148 (2.48%) had a cerebrovascular complication; 92.5% were ischemic. Of these 10.9% had an LVO. Prolonged aortic crossclamp was associated with LVO (odds ratio, 1.012 for every minute of prolonged aortic crossclamp time; confidence interval, 1.001-1.023) and remained significant in patients with ejection fraction >45%; prolonged cardiac bypass time was only associated with LVO in patients with ejection fraction >45% (odds ratio, 1.012 for every minute of prolonged cardiac bypass time; confidence interval, 1.003-1.021). Patients fell into 2 categories: detection of neurologic deficit in the stable postoperative patient or detection of deficit on emergence from anesthesia. Seven patients met criteria for emergent revascularization, with median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 15, and shorter times from last seen well to deficit detection compared with patients not meeting criteria (P = .032). Median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale day 7 score improved to 5. There was a trend toward better modified Rankin Scale scores at 3 months in patients who underwent thrombectomy. ConclusionsLVO complicates a small proportion of patients after CTS and may be more likely with prolonged aortic crossclamp and cardiac bypass times. Both early and late window endovascular stroke treatment has the potential to positively modify the complication profile of CTS. Greater awareness of this treatment option is needed.