Prolonged Cross-clamp Time Research Articles

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.

Effect of Shorter Cross Clamp Time vs. longer Cross Clamp time on cardiac enzyme levels in pts of CAD undergoing CABG

Aim: To compare mean cardiac enzyme levels in of shorter cross clamp time V/S longer cross Clamp time in patients undergoing CABG in local population. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial Place and duration: This study was performed from 2nd April 2020 to 2nd October 2020 in the Department of Cardiac Surgery Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore. Methodology: After informed consent, all patients undergoing CABG were enrolled and divided into two groups. A predesigned performa was used to enter preop, intra op and post op variables and cardiac enzyme levels were compared between shorter (<60 minutes) and longer (>60 minutes) aortic cross clamp time groups. Results: Study had enrolled 300 patients and 150(50%) patients were designated group A (shorter cross clamp time and 150 (50%) patients were designated in group B (longer cross clamp time). Out of these 300, 246 patients (82%) were males and 54 (18%) were females. Extremes of age were 70 years and 37 years and mean age was 56.77±8.03 years. Group A (shorter cross clamp time) patients had mean age of 56.64 ±7.53 and group B (longer cross clamp time) patients had 56.89±8.52 .Mean EF (%) was 52.17±8.98 with 23% being minimum and 70% being maximum. In group A patients, 93 patients (62%) were hypertensive , 82(55%) were smokers and 67 (45%) patients were diabetic, while group B had 110 (73%) hypertensive, 84(56%) smokers and 73(49%) diabetic patients. Mean CPB time in group A was recorded to be 93.72±29.97 and mean CPB time in group B was 121.04±31.83. The P-value was 0.001, significant enough to represent difference in CPG time in both groups Practical Implication: Additionally, no notable difference was found in need of inotropic supports between two groups. Longer cross clamp time is also associated with longer CPB time which in turn correlates with higher morbidity and mortality. Conclusion: It is concluded that prolonged cross clamp time is an independent predictor of morbidity despite cardio protection by modern strategies Keywords: CKMB, IABP, CABG, CPB time, aortic cross clamp time, Shorter Cross

Acute kidney injury after arterial switch operation: incidence, risk factors, clinical impact – a retrospective single-center study

Background This retrospective study aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in neonates following the arterial switch operation (ASO) for transposition of great arteries (TGA). Methods Retrospective review of medical data of children who underwent ASO in 2019–2020 in the Ukrainian Children’s Cardiac Center. Results 76 consecutive neonatal patients were included, 48 developed AKI after ASO (51.7%), and 24 – had severe AKI (25.8%). Severe AKI development was associated with longer cross-clamp time: 82 (61–127) versus 73.5 (53–136) in the non-severe AKI group (p = 0.02). 76 min of cross-clamp time were defined as a threshold value for increased severe AKI risk, OR 4.4 (95% CI: 1.5 – 13, p = 0.01). Higher lactate levels during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) increased severe AKI development risk, OR 1.5 (95% CI: 1.0 − 2.0, p = 0.03). Children with severe AKI had prolonged mechanical ventilation, longer time to negative fluid balance, and higher postoperative day 3 (POD3) Inotropic Score (IS). Only one patient required peritoneal dialysis. Conclusions In our study, 51.7% of patients developed AKI after ASO, 25.8%–severe AKI. Prolonged cross-clamp time and higher lactate levels during cardiopulmonary bypass increased the risk for severe AKI development. The development of AKI was associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation, longer time to negative fluid balance, higher POD 3 Inotropic Score.

The association between preoperative anemia, blood transfusion need, and postoperative complications in adult cardiac surgery, a single center contemporary experience

BackgroundThe impact of preoperative anemia on postcardiac surgery outcomes is an area of great debate. Although several large-scale studies have been conducted, they have demonstrated conflicting results. A limited number of studies have been conducted in the Middle East. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the association between preoperative anemia and the need for blood transfusions, as well as major postoperative complications.MethodsAdult patients who underwent cardiac surgery at King Faisal Cardiac Center in Jeddah between June 2016 and January 2020 were included in this retrospective cohort study. The study excluded patients with hereditary preoperative anemia. Among the variables studied were variables related to demographics, comorbidities, laboratory data, operation-related data, in-hospital complications, and mortality.ResultsThe mean preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level was 13.2 g/dL (SD ± 1.8). The overall mortality rate was 4.6%. A lower preoperative Hb level (p value = 0.016), postoperative day 1 WBC count (p-value = 0.003), and prolonged cross clamp time (p value < 0.001) were significantly associated with mortality. A lower Hb level during the preoperative period or within the first three days of surgery was associated with a higher blood transfusion requirement. However, there was no significant association between blood transfusion and postoperative complications. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression model was developed and several pre and intra operative factors were predictive of the need PRBCs transfusion after cardiac surgery (which included: older age, female gender, lower pre-operative hemoglobin and longer cardio-pulmonary bypass time), with had a predictive accuracy of around ~ 86%.ConclusionBased on our single center study, patients with preoperative lower Hb levels are at higher risk of mortality. However, blood transfusion does not seem to increase the risk of postoperative complications. Optimal utilization of blood products is an important quality metric and identification of patients at higher risk of requiring PRBCs transfusion prior to cardiac surgery can help in implementing pre or intra operative strategies to minimize the need for transfusion.

Temporary epicardial pacing wires post-cardiac surgery: a literature review.

Although epicardial pacing wires are routinely inserted after cardiac surgical procedures, there is little in the medical literature to help standardise their use and identify associated risks and benefits. Much of the decision-making surrounding pacing wires are based on the surgeon's preference and vary highly between centers. A literature review was conducted exploring the evidence, indications, and current practice for temporary pacing wires. Risk factors for developing post-operative arrhythmias necessitating use of temporary pacing wires and complications were also reviewed. Although temporary epicardial pacing wires have a crucial role to play in the post-operative recovery period, the current literature suggests that they should be considered on an individual basis in all high-risk patients including increased age, low ejection fraction, diabetes mellitus, elevated pulmonary artery pressures, prolonged cross clamp time, pacing required to wean from bypass, pre-operative arrhythmia, and multiple valvular and transplant operations. Although complications from pacing wires are low, this figure is likely underreported and further studies are required to focus on the risks and benefits of insertion.

A novel dosing strategy of del Nido cardioplegia in aortic surgery

ObjectiveWhile del Nido (DN) cardioplegia is increasingly used in cardiac surgery, knowledge is limited in its safety profile for operations with prolonged crossclamp time (CCT). We have introduced a unique redosing strategy for aortic surgery: all operations use DN with a 1000-mL initiation dose (750 mL antegrade, 250 mL retrograde) composed of 1:4 blood:DN crystalloid. At 90 minutes CCT and every 30 minutes thereafter, a 250-mL dose was introduced retrograde in a 4:1 (“reverse”) ratio. Additionally, at 90 minutes CCT and every 90 minutes thereafter, a reverse ratio dose of approximately 100 to 400 mL was introduced via the right coronary artery. Here, we analyze the outcomes of our unique redosing strategy used. MethodsIn total, 440 patients underwent aortic surgery between January 2015 and March 2021 under a single surgeon and received DN. Our primary end points were change in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and right ventricular systolic function based on echocardiography. Multivariable linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between CCT and outcomes. ResultsThe median was 61 years old (interquartile range, 51-69), and 23% were female. Indication was aneurysm in 65% and dissection in 24%. Median preoperative LVEF was 60% (55%-62%). Median CCT and cardiopulmonary bypass times were 135 minutes (93-165 minutes) and 181 minutes (142-218 minutes), respectively. In-hospital mortality occurred in 3%. Multivariable linear regression showed CCT was not associated with change in LVEF or change in right ventricular systolic function. ConclusionsOur unique method of redosing DN cardioplegia appears to provide safe and effective myocardial protection for aortic surgery.

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.

Totally endoscopic aortic valve replacement with stented biological and mechanical aortic prostheses

Abstract Background Endoscopic mitral valve surgery has become the gold standard of care in many expert centres around the globe. The aortic valve has not met the same popularity mainly due to the very confined space in the aortic root, and to the close proximity with the sternum which restricts the movement of the endoscopic instruments. When endoscopic aortic valve replacement is practiced in expert centres, is usually performed with the use of sutureless bioprostheses. We hereby present our experience of totally endoscopic aortic valve replacement (TEAVR) with conventional mechanical and biological prostheses. Methods Since January 2019, fifty-two consecutive patients with significant aortic stenosis and/or aortic regurgitation, who were operated with TEAVR with conventional prostheses were studied. 7,69% of the cases were REDOs. The prostheses used were either stented bovine pericardial in 84,6% of the patients and bileaflet mechanical in 15,4%. The operations were performed through a 3 to 4 cm working incision in the 3rd intercostal space (ICS) right parasternally (where an extra small soft tissue protector was deployed), a 10 mm port for the 3D, 30°, endoscope, and a 5 mm port for the left atrial vent. On full cardiopulmonary bypass, the heart was arrested with cardioplegia which was administered either in the aortic root or directly in the coronary ostia. A transverse aortotomy was performed 3 cm above the right coronary ostium. The native valve (tricuspid or bicuspid) was excised, the annulus was sized and the prostheses were inserted using twelve to fifteen annular sutures who were secured using an automated suture-fastening device. In order to facilitate exposure in the aortic root, a metal self-expandable net was used. Results The average age of the patients treated was 68,3 years (range 36–81, median 72). The mean EuroSCORE2 was 3,22 (0,9–12,01, SEM:0,71). The mean size of the prostheses inserted was 23,72 mm (21–27, median 23) and the mean postoperative peak gradient was 12,15 (5–19, SEM: 1,00). Mean cross clamp and CPB times were 75,38 min (SEM:5,87) and 116,30 (SEM:8,63). There was no case of paravalvular leak or pacemaker insertion. There was no mortality in this cohort of patients. There was one case of cerebrovascular accident. Conclusions TEAVR can be performed safely with conventional aortic prostheses. There are several advantages of the technique over the other aortic valve replacing approaches. Over the other surgical techniques has the advantage of not fracturing the sternum or spreading or dislodging the ribs and increased patient satisfaction. Over the TAVI has the advantages of fully removing the diseased native valve, securing the prosthesis at the exact annular level without any paravalvular leaks or need for pacemaker insertion and the ability of using mechanical prostheses. The main disadvantages of the technique are the relatively prolonged cross clamp and CPB times and the steep learning curve. TEAVR Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Solução Custodiol®-HTK versus Cardioplegia Sanguínea Gelada em Cirurgia Coronária Isolada com Tempo de Pinçamento da Aorta Prolongado: Uma Análise de Propensão Pareada

ResumoFundamento A cardioplegia com solução Custodiol®-HTK (histidina-triptofano-cetoglutarato) é amplamente utilizada.Objetivo Comparar os desfechos de cirurgia coronária isolada, com tempo de pinçamento da aorta (TPA) prolongado, em pacientes que receberam dose única de HTK ou repetidas doses de cardioplegia sanguínea gelada (MCB).Métodos O TPA foi de ≥120 minutos para 148 pacientes consecutivos submetidos à cirurgia coronária isolada (2009−2016). A cardioplegia sanguínea gelada e a HTK foram utilizadas em 38 e 110 casos, respectivamente. Os dois grupos foram comparados considerando-se as características basais, os dados operatórios e os desfechos precoces. Uma vez que o perfil de risco e os dados operatórios diferiram significativamente entre os grupos, foi realizada análise utilizando pareamento por escore de propensão, sendo gerados 34 pares.Resultados Enquanto o risco operatório esperado foi maior no grupo HTK, quando comparado com o grupo MCB (EUROSCORE II, p=0,005), não houve diferença significativa intergrupo em relação à mortalidade hospitalar (p=0,573). O balanço hídrico acumulado (positivo) no período pós-operatório (p=0,003), o número de transfusões de sangue (p=0,017), as taxas de lesão renal aguda (p=0,002) e qualquer complicação maior (p=0,019) foram mais elevados nos pacientes do grupo HTK. Todos esses resultados foram confirmados mesmo após o pareamento por escore de propensão, embora a diferença tenha sido significativa apenas em relação ao balanço hídrico (p=0,013) e bastante significativa em relação às transfusões de sangue (p=0,054). No grupo HTK, o tempo de permanência hospitalar e na unidade de terapia intensiva foram mais longos tanto para a amostra global (p=0,016 e 0,008) quanto para a amostra pareada (p=0,142 e 0,198). Na amostra pareada, os valores pico para troponina I cardíaca sérica foram mais baixos no grupo HTK (p=0,122); os níveis séricos de creatinina foram mais baixos no grupo MCB (p=0,023).Conclusão Para os pacientes deste estudo que necessitaram de TPA prolongado, houve uma tendência a desfechos piores quando a cardioplegia com HTK, e não a cardioplegia sanguínea gelada, foi utilizada. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):241-250)

Incidence and risk factors for new-onset atrial fibrillation following coronary artery bypass grafting: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesTo estimate the incidence of new-onset post-operative atrial fibrillation after isolated coronary artery bypass surgery and summarise the evidence on risk factors that predispose people to developing the complication. Study design/methodsA systematic review was conducted to identify studies from the CINAHL, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases. A title and abstract review was conducted by one reviewer. Full text review and quality assessment processes were conducted by two reviewers. Incidence data was combined in meta-analysis using the ‘metaprop’ routine in Stata and risk factor data were synthesised in narrative and table format. ResultsTen studies, including 6173 participants, were included in the review. The estimated pooled incidence of post-operative atrial fibrillation was 25% (CI 0.19–0.30). In a secondary meta-analysis including studies that only included first time bypass surgery recipients the estimated pooled incidence was 26% (CI 0.14–0.41). Due to high levels of heterogeneity these results should be interpreted with caution. Risk factors with the strongest associations to post-operative atrial fibrillation were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, decreased partial pressure of oxygen on air, congestive heart failure, right coronary artery disease, male gender, prolonged cross clamp time and port-operative inotropic exposure. ConclusionFurther prospective studies are needed to strengthen the current evidence base.

Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery Grafting Concomitant With Other Cardiac Operations - Insights From a European Multicenter Retrospective Study on 1,123 Consecutive Patients.

The use of bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) grafting concomitant with other cardiac operations is regarded as a risky strategy and the long-term advantages of BITA use remain unproven. Pooled results from 3 series of patients (totaling 1,123 patients; mean age, 71.3 years; mean EuroSCORE II, 7.4%) undergoing combined coronary surgery using BITA were reviewed. Predictors of immediate and long-term adverse outcomes were identified by multivariable analyses. In-hospital and 30-day mortality was 7.9% and 6.3%, respectively. Diabetes on insulin (P=0.045), severe renal impairment (P<0.0001), extracardiac arteriopathy (P=0.0058), New York Heart Association class III-IV (P=0.017), recent myocardial infarction (P=0.0009), left ventricular dysfunction (P=0.0054), pulmonary hypertension (P=0.0016), active infective endocarditis (P=0.0011), and prolonged cross-clamp time (P=0.04) were predictors of in-hospital death. Multiple transfusions (27.3%), prolonged mechanical ventilation or reintubation (16.7%), acute kidney injury (11.5%), and sternal wound infections (10.4%) were relevant postoperative complications. Any neurological dysfunction occurred in 5.4% of cases. Median follow-up was 4.2 years. Female sex, chronic dialysis, extracardiac arteriopathy, and left ventricular dysfunction were predictors of both cardiac/cerebrovascular death and major adverse cardiac/cerebrovascular events (MACCE). The 10-year adjusted survival free of cardiac/cerebrovascular death, cerebrovascular accident after discharge, and MACCE was 84.2%, 94.8% and 54.6%, respectively. BITA grafting concomitant with other cardiac operations may be performed with satisfactory results. Long-term outcomes mostly depend on sex, preoperative comorbidities, and baseline cardiac function.

Learning Curve of Totally Endoscopic Non Rib-spreading Mitral Valve Surgery

Objective: Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery has been shown to be transferable through proctoring and careful analysis of surgeons’ performance. Totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery without rib spreading represents an advancement in the mitral surgery field. As invasiveness decreases, technical demand increases and careful proctoring and monitoring is required. We use the CUSUM analysis to elucidate the performance and the learning curve of our group switching from standard minimally invasive mitral valve surgery to totally endoscopic approach. Methods: From July 2015 to April 2018, 177 patents underwent totally endoscopic mitral valve surgery. The procedure was adopted for “all-comers” patients with either isolated mitral and/or tricuspid valve disease. Euroscore II was used to the risk against which the surgical failure was compared to construct the CUSUM curve. Surgical failure was defned as: 1) perioperative death; 2)intraoperative conversion to sternotomy; 3) perioperative myocardial infarction (new Q- waves >0.04 ms and/or reduction in R-waves >25% in at least two contiguous leads on electrocardiogram); 4) perioperative aortc dissection; 5) stroke (defined as Rankin Modified scale score >= 6) in-hospital reoperation for any cause. Also we considered surgical procedure end-points of failure as the occurrence of one or more of the following: 1) cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time exceeding 95% of our “conventional MIMVS” CPB tme; 2) cross-clamp (X-clamp) time exceeding 95% of our conventional approach; 3) preparation time exceeding 95% of our current MIMVS setup. Results: Procedure specific risk adjusted probability of failure, probability of failure during preparation time, prolonged CPB time and prolonged cross clamp time were always in control. Conclusions: Between 50 and 60 procedures are required to reach the lower boundary to overcome procedure-specific risks, manage the surgical setup and be proficient in the new way of mitral repair as reflected by the cardiopulmonary bypass time and cross-clamping time.

Validation of acute kidney injury according to the modified KDIGO criteria in infants after cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease.

We aimed to validate the incidence of, risk factors for, and postoperative outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) according to the modified Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (m-KDIGO) criteria and compare this criteria with both the paediatric Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End-stage disease (pRIFLE) and Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria in infants after cardiac surgery. We retrospectively enrolled 145 consecutive infants who underwent open-heart surgery at Kagoshima University Hospital. Acute kidney injury was present in 55 (37.9%), 111 (75.9%), and 95 (65.5%) patients according to the m-KDIGO, pRIFLE, and AKIN criteria, respectively. Among these, 71.9% of patients pRIFLE Risk patients and 60.5% of AKIN 1 patients were categorized in the 'no-AKI' group according to the m-KDIGO criteria. Low body weight (m-KDIGO odds ratio [OR], 0.73; P = 0.015; pRIFLE OR, 0.66; P = 0.001; AKIN OR 0.69, P = 0.002) and prolonged cross-clamp time (m-KDIGO OR, 1.02; <P = 0.001; pRIFLE OR, 1.02; P = 0.003; AKIN OR, 1.02; P = 0.001) were independent risk factors for the development of AKI. Further, m-KDIGO-based AKI grade was more strongly associated with higher incidence of requiring renal replacement therapy and mortality than both the pRIFLE- and AKIN- based AKI grade. Application of the three criteria resulted in different AKI incidences, but each criterion could be useful for detecting risk factors for AKI. Notably, using m-KDIGO criteria provides more important subsequent postoperative outcomes. The m-KDIGO AKI criteria describe clinically relevant AKI in infants after cardiac surgery.

RF67 REDO MITRAL SURGERY AND HOSPITAL OUTCOME: A MULTICENTRE EXPERIENCE REGARDING SURGICAL FACTORS AND COMPLICATIONS

Background and Aim: Redo mitral surgery is an high risk procedure. Several preoperative conditions identify patients at unusual surgical risk. Few studies clarify technical issues and perioperative complications affecting early survival. The aim of this multicentre study is to determine predictors of adverse outcome among intraoperative factors and postoperative events. Methods: Operative mortality and major morbidity events from 832 redo mitral procedures, from January 2005 to December 2014 at eight European centres, were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed by the SPSS 13.0 program for Windows (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Normally distributed continuous variables were compared using the unpaired t-test, not-normally distributed variables using the Mann–Whitney U-test and categorical variables using the χ2test. Only variables with a P &lt; 0.10 at univariable analysis were included into the regression models. Results: Injury of a previous patent left internal mammary artery graft (LIMA) [odds ratio (OR) 4.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6–11.5; P = 0.005], major cardiovascular iatrogenic lesions at re-entry (OR 19.2, 95% CI: 9.2–39.9; P &lt; 0.001), extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia (OR 7.3, 95% CI: 1.4–37.8; P = 0.018) and incremental cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0–1.2; P = 0.001) independently predicted operative mortality. Conclusion: Operative mortality in redo mitral surgery is still significant. Injury of a previous LIMA graft identifies patients at higher. Prolonged cross-clamp times, extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia, massive transfusions, perioperative myocardial infarction, prolonged intubation also predict adverse early outcome. Combined antegrade + retrograde cardioplegia seems to be the only protective factor these high-risk patients.

Blood cardioplegia benefits only patients with a long cross-clamp time.

A clear advantage of blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia has not yet been observed in smaller population studies. The purpose of this article was to further investigate the clinical outcomes of blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia in a large propensity-matched cohort of patients who underwent cardiac surgery. The study was a single-centre study. Data was withdrawn from the Western Denmark Heart Registry, which comprises a perfusion section for each procedure. A total of 4,852 patients were propensity matched into crystalloid (CC) vs blood cardioplegia (BC) groups. The primary end points were creatinine kinase-MB (CKMB) elevation, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, dialysis, coronary angiography (CAG) and mortality (30 days and 6 months). We found lower odds ratio in 30-day mortality in the BC group (OR 0.21; CI 0.06-0.68), but no difference in overall 6-month mortality. There was no difference in CKMB elevation, AMI, dialysis or stroke. Several end points were further analysed for different cross-clamp times. In the CC group, ventilation time above 600 minutes was seen more often in almost all cross-clamp time intervals (23.5 % vs 12.2 %; p<0.0001; χ2-test) and 6-month mortality was significantly higher when the cross-clamp time exceeded 210 minutes (64.3 vs 23.8; p=0.018; χ2-test). We did not find clear evidence of superiority of either type in the uncomplicated patient. When prolonged cross-clamp time or postoperative ventilation is expected, this study indicates that blood cardioplegia might be preferable.

A Simplified Technique for Correcting Mitral Valve Regurgitation via Minimally Invasive Approach

Mitral valve regurgitation may require complex repair techniques that are challenging in minimally invasive and may expose patients to prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times. Here, we present a stepwise operative approach that may facilitate the repair of the mitral valve in a minimally invasive fashion and may be carried out even when multiple posterior segments are involved. This how-to-do article presents a method that was performed in 148 patients that were referred to our institution for severe organic mitral regurgitation between 2008 and 2016. At mean ± SD follow-up of 45.5 ± 27 months, freedom from recurrent of mitral regurgitation 2+ or greater and reoperation was 95.2%.

Prognostic Impact of Prolonged Cross-Clamp Time in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

The prognostic impact of cross-clamp time (XCT) in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has not been thoroughly investigated. 2957 patients who underwent on-pump isolated CABG from the prospective multicentre E-CABG study were the subjects of this analysis. The mean XCT in this series was 58±25minutes Cross-clamp time was >60 minutes in 1134 patients (38.3%), >75minutes in 619 patients (20.9%) and >90minutes in 296 patients (10.0%). Multivariate analysis showed that XCT was an independent predictor of 30-day mortality (p<0.0001, OR 1.027, 95%CI 1.015-1.039) along with age (p<0.0001), female gender (p=0.001), pulmonary disease (p=0.001), poor mobility (p=0.002), urgency status (p=0.007), critical preoperative status (p=0.002) and participating centres (p=0.015). Adjusted risk of 30-day mortality was highest for XCT >75minutes (2.9% vs. 1.7%, p=0.002, OR 3.479, 95%CI 1.609-7.520). Analysis of 428 propensity score matched pairs showed that XCT >75minutes was associated with significantly increased risk of early mortality, prolonged use of inotropes, postoperative use of intra-aortic balloon pump, use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, atrial fibrillation, prolonged stay in the intensive care unit and of composite major adverse events. Isolated CABG is currently performed with prolonged XCT in a significant number of patients and this seems to be a determinant of poor early outcome.

Coronary artery bypass grafting in South Asian patients: Impact of gender.

BackgroundOutcomes following Coronary artery bypass grafting (GABG) vary between genders, with females having a higher postoperative mortality than males. Most of the studies are on Caucasian or mixed population and it is postulated that Asian population and in particular women have higher morbidity and mortality. In this study we have compared outcomes of elective CABG in men and women of South Asian origin in terms of morbidity and mortality.MethodsFrom January 2006 to December 2012, 1970 patients underwent isolated elective CABG at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan were selected. The prospectively collected data was analyzed retrospectively including univariate and multivariate analysis to find the association of morbidity and mortality.ResultsAmong the study patients 1664 (85%) were male and 306 (15%) female. Hypertension and diabetes were the most common comorbid conditions seen preoperatively in female patients. Atrial fibrillation and sepsis were the most common postop complications seen in females. In hospital mortality was 3.9% in female underwent CABG as against 0.6% in male. Multivariate analysis showed older age, renal failure, dyslipidemia and prolonged cross clamp time as predictors of postoperative morbidity. Multivariate analysis showed female gender, age and renal failure as predictors of in hospital mortality.ConclusionsFemale gender is an independent risk factor for postoperative mortality following CABG however, female gender is not found to be independent risk factor for morbidity. The trend of higher mortality in female patients was comparable to most studies done on Caucasian patients.

Surgical factors and complications affecting hospital outcome in redo mitral surgery: insights from a multicentre experience.

Several single-centre experiences have reported significant operative mortality and morbidity after mitral valve surgery in redo scenarios (ReMVS). Several preoperative risk factors outlining 'high-risk' categories have been reported, but scanty data on the impact of different operative techniques for these major challenging procedures have been analysed to date. The aim of the study is to investigate those intraoperative factors and postoperative events affecting early survival after redo mitral procedures. Operative mortality and major morbidity events from a large multicentre registry enrolling 832 consecutive redo mitral procedures were analysed. Intraoperative technical issues and postoperative complications impacting operative mortality were identified. ReMVS was associated with significant operative mortality (12.5%), acute myocardial infarction (AMI; 5.9%), stroke (4.9%), acute respiratory insufficiency (14.8%), pneumonia (7.0%), acute renal insufficiency (16.1%) and failure (12.6%), reintervention for bleeding (7.6%), massive transfusion (28.0%), need for permanent pacemaker (10.1%). Injury of a previous patent left internal mammary artery (LIMA) graft [odds ratio (OR) 4.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6-11.5; P = 0.005], major cardiovascular iatrogenic lesions at re-entry (OR 19.2, 95% CI: 9.2-39.9; P < 0.001), extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia (OR 7.3, 95% CI: 1.4-37.8; P = 0.018), and incremental cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0-1.2; P = 0.001) independently predicted operative mortality, whereas combined antegrade + retrograde cardioplegia (OR 0.2, 95% CI: 0.09-0.4; P = 0.001) was the only protective factor against mortality. Among complications, AMI (OR 4.1, 95% CI: 1.8-9.6; P = 0.001), need for intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP; OR 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5-6.1; P = 0.001), prolonged intubation >48 h (OR 5.3, 95% CI: 2.9-9.4; P = 0.001) and massive (>6 units) transfusions (OR 4.4, 95% CI: 2.4-8.0; P = 0.001) also predicted operative mortality. ReMVS still carries the risk of significant early mortality and major morbidity. Major lesion to cardiovascular structures is the most dreadful iatrogenic complication, and injury of a previous LIMA graft identifies patients at higher risk of operative mortality. Prolonged cross-clamp times, extracellular crystalloid cardioplegia and massive transfusions have profound impact on early outcome, as well as the development of perioperative AMI, eventually requiring IABP and prolonged intubation. The combination of antegrade and retrograde cardioplegia seems to offer a better myocardial protection in these high-risk patients.

Early outcomes after isolated aortic valve replacement with rapid deployment aortic valve

ObjectiveMinimal access aortic valve replacement is associated with favorable clinical outcomes; however, several meta-analyses have reported significantly longer crossclamp times compared with a full sternotomy. We examined the procedural and early safety outcomes after isolated rapid deployment aortic valve replacement by surgical approach in patients enrolled in the Surgical Treatment of Aortic Stenosis With a Next Generation Surgical Aortic Valve trial. MethodsThe Surgical Treatment of Aortic Stenosis With a Next Generation Surgical Aortic Valve trial was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm study, with successful implants in 287 patients with aortic valve stenosis who underwent rapid deployment aortic valve replacement using the EDWARDS INTUITY Valve System (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, Calif). Patients were evaluated perioperatively for procedural times and technical success rates; at discharge, for hospital length of stay; and, at 30 days, for early adverse events. ResultsA total of 158 patients underwent isolated aortic valve replacement through a full sternotomy (n = 71), upper hemisternotomy (n = 77), or right anterior thoracotomy (n = 10). Mean age at baseline was 75.7 ± 7.2 years. Mean aortic crossclamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times (minutes) were similar for full sternotomy and upper hemisternotomy, 43.5 ± 32.5/71.6 ± 41.8 and 43.1 ± 13.1/69.6 ± 19.1, respectively, and significantly longer for right anterior thoracotomy, 88.3 ± 18.6/122.2 ± 22.1 (P < .000). Early adverse event rates were similar, and in-hospital mortality rates were low regardless of surgical approach. ConclusionsThese data suggest that isolated rapid deployment aortic valve replacement through an upper hemisternotomy can lead to shorter crossclamp times than has been reported historically in the literature. This may facilitate minimal access aortic valve replacement by eliminating the issue of prolonged crossclamp times. Further, low in-hospital mortality and new permanent pacemaker implant rates were observed regardless of surgical approach.