Prosthetic Gradient Research Articles

Abstract 4137869: Ross Procedure for Correction of Congenitally Unicuspid Aortic Valve: A Paradigm Shift?

Case 1: A 54-yr-old man reported exertional dyspnea for 3 months, with a systolic murmur on exam. TTE noted severe aortic stenosis, moderate insufficiency and possible bicuspid valve morphology. Coronary angiogram showed no obstructive disease. CT chest showed a 5-cm ascending aortic aneurysm. CT surgery evaluation was sought, and patient had a Ross procedure with aortic hemiarch repair. Intra-operative TEE confirmed a congenitally unicommissural, unicuspid aortic valve (UAV). A 7-month follow-up TTE showed a normal aortic and pulmonic prosthetic gradient. Case 2: A 46-yr-old lady reported progressive exercise intolerance, with a systolic murmur and faint S2 noted on exam. TTE showed severe aortic stenosis. MR angiogram showed a unicuspid valve and a mildly dilated aortic root. The patient was evaluated by CT surgery and underwent Ross procedure. TTE 4 years later showed a normal aortic and a moderately elevated pulmonic prosthetic gradient. Patient continues to exercise without limitations. Discussion: UAV is a rare entity with an incidence of 0.02%. It has a bimodal distribution, in infants and adults, with the unicommissural type more common in adults. Due to rapid progression of valvular disease, the mean age at diagnosis is 42 years. Concurrent aortic dilatation is present in 48% patients. Management of UAV is a matter of ongoing investigation. Classically, young patients with aortic valve disease underwent mechanical AVR. Ross procedure was under-utilized due to concerns about the surgical complexity and potential need for re-operation of the aortic and pulmonic grafts. However, recent studies show promising results. Patients with UAV have lower reoperation rates after a Ross procedure compared to a repair alone. Furthermore, a Ross procedure confers mortality benefit over mechanical AVR with no significant difference in immediate perioperative complications and mortality, although, this needs further investigation in a UAV cohort. Our cases support the feasibility of a Ross procedure for UAV, in providing a durable solution while avoiding anticoagulation in young patients. As Ross procedure is performed in limited centers, patients with UAV should be referred to such centers for definitive management.

A TAVI VALV IN VALV AT ALMOST 90 YEARS

Abstract Degeneration of the biologic aortic valve prosthesis represents an increasingly important issue. This process often affects frail elderly patients who are not candidates for cardiac re–intervention. TAVI valve–in–valve implantation therefore probably remains the only viable option in such patients.We report the clinical case of Mrs. Luciana F., currently 94 years old, who underwent biological aortic valve replacement in 2016. In charge of the Elderly Patient‘s Heart Failure Outpatient Clinic (SOD Geriatrics–UTIG) since January 2023.At first evaluation,89 years old, widowed, living alone; MMSE 29/30. SPPB 7/12. Totally autonomous in BADL, and partially in IADL.She complained of decreased exercise tolerance (NYHA Class III). No alterations in left ventricular kinetics. Calcified and degenerated aortic valve prosthesis with markedly reduced box opening and severe stenosis (Vel 4.7 m/s; Grad max/med (86/55 mmHg) mild insufficiency. May 2023 access to DEA for syncopal episode, complicated by fall down stairs and head injury; on echocardiogram relief of further degeneration of aortic bioprosthesis (moderate–grade intra–prosthetic insufficiency at 2 jets with PTH 300 msec and severe stenosis, Gmax/Gmed 88/55 mmHg, DVI 0.20 June 2023 worsening of dyspnea that appeared even at rest NYHA IV. At echocolordoppler confirmed severe aortic stenosis severe bioprosthesis degeneration. She was evaluated in Heart Team: low overall risk (MPI 0.31) therefore percutaneous implantation of Medtronic Evolut R aortic bioprosthesis has been performed. At discharge asymptomatic, eupnoic, walking independently without aids for short stretches. At subsequent follow–up.–1 month: substantial clinical well–being in the absence of dyspnea on ordinary exertion (NYHA II), no orthopnea or paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea; denies angor, heart palp or syncopal episodes. She has resumed household chores and leaves the house almost every day –6 months: clinical stability. She walks long distances every day in the absence of symptomatology. –1 years (turned 90 years old): clinical stability with dyspnea for moderate exertion continues active life. Trans prosthetic gradient max/medium 22/12 mmHg, VD–AD 30 mmHg. In conclusion TAVI procedure on degenerated biological prosthesis should be an option to be considered in the elderly patient selected and evaluated by a multidisciplinary Heart Team to achieve improvement of cardiovascular symptoms and concomitantly recovery of functional autonomy.

P98 A CASE OF “RECURRENT” AORTIC VALVE STENOSIS

Abstract Clinical Case A 80–year–old man underwent coronary angiography in 2006 because of stable angina. There was chronic total occlusion of middle left anterior descending artery requiring percutaneous intervention. In 2009 he underwent coronary angiography for recurrent angina: a severe stent restenosis was treated with stenting in stent (DES in BMS). The patient was subsequently asymptomatic till 2018 when he complained of exertional dyspnea and angina. Stent patency and severe aortic valve stenosis (AVA 0.85 cm2) were documented. The patient underwent successful transcatheter aortic valve implantation and discharged with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) (Asa 100 mg and Clopidogrel 75 mg). Clinical and echocardiographic follow–up was unremarkable (mean prosthetic gradient 17 mmHg, DVI=0.45). In July 2021 during a cardiological check the patient complained of bruising: ASA was discontinued. In February 2022 the patient suffered from an exertional angina. A dipyridamole stress–echocardiography failed to demonstrate inducible ischemia, although the patient experienced angina at the peak load step. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed high mean trans–prosthetic aortic gradient (52 mmHg, DVI=0.18). A trans–esophageal echocardiogram (TEE) showed reduced mobility of the thickened left coronary and non–coronary aortic prosthetic leaflets. In the hypothesis of prosthetic valve thrombosis, warfarin (INR range 2–3) was started after stopping clopidogrel. After three months a TTE showed normalized mean trans–prosthetic gradients (17 mmHg, DVI=0.5). When a 6 month–period of anticoagulant therapy was accomplished, warfarin was stopped and DAPT administered again. In September 2022 the patient complained of worsening dyspnea and chest pain on exertion. At TTE mean trans–prosthetic gradients (46 mmHg) was increased. A new TEE showed thickening of non–coronary and right coronary leaflets, suggestive of recurrent valve thrombosis. After stopping DAPT, warfarin was started again with good result (mean prosthetic gradient 12 mmHg, DVI=0.5). Conclusion Thrombosis of aortic valve prothesis is an infrequent event usually occurring in early post–implantation period. In our case it occurred four years after implantation following DAPT interruption. The likely initial prosthetic valve degeneration together with a simplification of DAPT may have had a causative role. Since the proved efficacy of warfarin and the limited experience of DOAC in this field, the patient was given warfarin sine die.

P180 A STRANGE JET IN A PATIENT WITH A MECHANICAL AORTIC VALVE

Abstract Clinical Case A 68–year–old male patient with a history of ischemic heart disease in three vessel coronary artery disease who underwent surgical myocardial revascularization in 2012 by CABG (LIMA to LAD); previous aortic valve replacement with mechanical prosthesis (2012); previous PMK implant in permanent AF. The patient arrived at our observation transferred from another hospital where, due to heart failure with new–onset severe left ventricular dysfunction, he had undergone a coronary examination with evidence of occlusion of LAD in the middle tract, patency of LIMA to LAD, severe LM/LCx stenosis followed by IVUS guided PTCA–DES stenting with final TIMI 3. During his hospitalization in our care unit he repeated trans–thoracic echocardiogram examination which documented: severe left ventricular dilatation with reduced EF (40%), left atriomegaly, bileaflet mechanical aortic prosthesis in place with normal systolic opening, normal trans–prosthetic gradients, absent peri or intraprosthetic regurgitation jet, moderate mitral valve regurgitation with central jet, right–sided sections of normal size and contractility in the absence of signs of increased pulmonary pressures. Color Doppler also documented a high–speed jet starting from the prosthesis–LAM interface directed towards the left atrium of unclear interpretation. To better interpretate this finding a transesophageal echocardiogram was performed which confirmed the correct functioning of the aortic mechanical prosthesis, absence of periprosthetic leaks and confirmed a high–speed jet directed from the prosthesis–LAM interface towards the left atrium compatible with perforation of the mitro–aortic continuity tissue. The patient was therefore sent for cardiac surgery and is currently awaiting reoperation.

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement for degenerated mitral bioprostheses: a systematic review.

Treatment of degenerated mitral bioprostheses with transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve (MVIV) implantation is increasingly used. The goal of this review was to evaluate the one-year outcomes of this therapy using the most recent evidence. A MEDLINE, Cochrane database and SCOPUS search was performed of published observational studies involving patients undergoing transcatheter MVIV for degenerated bioprosthesis to determine procedural success, thirty-day and one-year survival. A total of 2,684 patients undergoing transcatheter MVIV were identified from five studies with mean age of 73-75 years, 57-63% female and Society for Thoracic Surgery (STS) risk score ranging from 9-13%. Procedural technical success ranged from 94-98%, with 1-3% rates of periprocedural death, 0-2% stroke and 1-5% risk of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. Thirty-day post-procedure mean mitral prosthetic gradient ranged from 6-7 mmHg and residual mitral regurgitation was mild or less in 96-100% of patients. Thirty-day survival and one-year survival ranged from 93-97% and 83-89% respectively. Transcatheter MVIV is an effective treatment for structural degeneration of biologic mitral valve replacement with low complication rates and favorable one-year outcomes. Accordingly, MVIV should be considered as a reasonable alternative to re-do surgical mitral valve replacement in high risk patients with comorbidities. Further study of long-term outcomes of this treatment is needed.

P1310 Prosthetic valve endocarditis or thrombus?

Abstract One cause of constitutional syndrome in patients previously submitted to valve replacement surgery is a prosthetic endocarditis; this occurs in 1-6% of valve surgeries and has an adverse prognosis. Although this is a likely etiology, it is important to keep other possibilities in mind. This clinical case is about a 61 years old male, with known history of smoking, atrial fibrillation anticoagulated with warfarin (with low TTR), and rheumatic fever in childhood, with severe aortic stenosis/regurgitation and moderate mitral regurgitation. In August 2018 he was admitted in our hospital with mitral valve endocarditis cause by Streptococcus agalactiae. He was submitted to an aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery with 2 bioprothesis. Three months later he was admitted again with weight loss, fatigue, dyspnea for small efforts and worsening anemia. The first diagnosis hypothesis was prosthetic endocarditis. The echocardiogram showed normo-functioning aortic bioprothesis; obstructive mitral bioprothesis with an image suggestive of a vegetation; and a de novo mass in the left auricle, compatible with a thrombus. This clinical case was discussed in Heart Team: as the patient was clinically stable, it was opted for an initial conservative approach; although there was a strong clinical suspicion that all the clinical case was due to thrombotic manifestations (assuming that the vegetations had a non-infectious origin), he was nonetheless medicated with vancomycin, gentamicin and rifampicin, as the diagnosis of early culture negative prosthetic endocarditis could not be discarded. He was anticoagulated with enoxaparin. In the reevaluation echocardiogram there was a significative reduction of the left atrial thrombus and disappearance of the mitral valve vegetation image, with improvement of the mitral valve prosthetic gradients. The case was discussed again in Heart Team: due to the clinical evolution, the hypothesis that this was all caused by a thrombotic manifestation grew stronger; it was opted not to submit the patient to a new surgery and the antibiotic therapy was suspended. To study the pro-thrombotic state and the constitutional syndrome, a full body CT was requested: "hilar-mediastinal and bilateral hilar adenopathy; right supraclavicular adenopathy; splenomegaly with infarcted area." The right hilar adenopathy was biopsied; the pathologic exam revealed non-small cells lung carcinoma. The patient was discharged, medicated with warfarin and oriented to outpatient Oncology consult. Any cancer can be associated with thrombotic manifestations. In this case, considering the heavy smoking burden, lung cancer is one of the first etiologies to consider. The thrombotic manifestations of the non-small cells lung carcinoma are due to a paraneoplastic mechanism and might precede the cancer diagnosis. This clinical case highlights the importance of thinking of different etiologies in the differential diagnosis of a constitutional syndrome. Abstract P1310 Figure. Left auricle mass

P1254 Gerbode defect makes sense after 20 years of a prosthetic mitral valve

Abstract 60 year old female has been checked for routine prosthetic mitral valve control for the first time in our outpatient clinic. She was also complaining about severe dyspnea for several months. Mitral valve replacement has been done 20 years ago, without tricuspide ring or any other repair.Transthoracic echocardiography showed high normal mitral prosthetic gradients and dilated right heart chambers with severe tricuspid regurgitation. Close to the tricuspid regurgitant flow; there was an additional left to right shunt from left ventricle to right atrium. As she had denied of having a congenital defect before surgery and as there should not have been a possibility of such a missed diagnosis by many echocardiographers for years; we suspected that it had become as a complication of mitral valve surgery, rather than being a congenital defect. Surgical closure of the defect and tricuspide ring annuloplasty repair have been planned. Abstract P1254 Figure.

Long-Term Mortality and Early Valve Dysfunction According to Anticoagulation Use: The FRANCE TAVI Registry

BackgroundThe optimal antithrombotic treatment after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains a matter of debate. Although dual antiplatelet therapy is recommended, single antiplatelet therapy or oral anticoagulation is frequently used according to the patient profile. Whether this approach may affect clinical outcome is unknown. ObjectivesFRANCE TAVI (French Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) is a prospective, multicenter, nationwide French registry. The study objectives were to identify independent correlates of long-term all-cause mortality and early bioprosthetic valve dysfunction (BVD), defined as increased prosthetic gradient ≥10 mm Hg or new gradient ≥20 mm Hg. MethodsTo account for missing values, multiple imputations were performed. Stepwise multivariable Cox regression and logistic regression were used for all-cause mortality and bioprosthesis valve dysfunction was used, respectively. Sensitivity analysis retaining only patients with complete data were also performed. ResultsOf 12,804 patients included in the registry between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015, a total of 11,469 (mean ± SE age: 82.8 ± 0.07 years; logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation: 17.8 ± 0.1%; mean duration of follow-up: 495 ± 3.5 days) were alive at discharge with known antithrombotic treatment and were analyzed for mortality. A total of 2,555 patients had at least 2 echocardiographic evaluations and were eligible for BVD assessment. One-third of patients had a history of atrial fibrillation, and the same proportion had oral anticoagulation at discharge (n = 3,836). Neither aspirin nor clopidogrel was independently associated with mortality. Male sex (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.63; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44 to 1.84; p < 0.001), history of atrial fibrillation (aHR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.62; p < 0.001), and chronic renal failure (aHR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.53; p < 0.001) were the strongest independent correlates of mortality. Anticoagulation at discharge (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.35 to 0.82; p = 0.005) and a nonfemoral approach (aOR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.28 to 1.02; p = 0.049) were independently associated with lower rates of BVD, whereas chronic renal failure (aOR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.08; p = 0.034) and prosthesis size ≤23 mm (aOR: 3.43; 95% CI: 2.41 to 4.89; p < 0.001) yielded higher risk of BVD. ConclusionsSex, renal failure, and atrial fibrillation affected mortality the most at the 3-year follow-up. In contrast, anticoagulation (mostly given for atrial fibrillation) decreased the risk of BVD after TAVR.

Leaflet thrombosis following transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BackgroundTranscatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is increasingly being offered to high-risk patients with symptomatic aortic valve stenosis. Recent reports have suggested a high incidence of subclinical leaflet thrombosis following bioprosthestic aortic valve replacement. We report the frequency and clinical presentation of leaflet thrombosis identified by cardiac CT in patients referred for follow-up contrast enhanced CT angiography following TAVI. Methods91 consecutive patients referred for follow-up contrast-enhanced CT angiography following TAVI were screened for inclusion in this analysis. Out of these, 13 patients were excluded. All CT examinations were performed using a 2nd or a 3rd generation dual-source system (Somatom Definition Flash/Force, Forchheim, Germany). In all patients, retrospectively ECG-gated spiral acquisition with tube modulation was performed to allow for assessment of leaflet motion. All prostheses were analyzed for presence of leaflet thrombosis defined as hypo-attenuated leaflet thickening with or without leaflet restriction. Post-procedural antithrombotic regimen as well as symptom status was documented in all patients. Results78 consecutive patients (35 males, 81 ± 4 years) were analyzed. TAVI had been performed in all patients (76 transfemoral access, 2 transapical access) with either balloon-expandable prostheses (4 Sapien XT, 64 Sapien 3) or self-expandable prostheses (5 SJM Portico, 5 Symetis Acurate). Follow-up CT angiography was performed at a median of 4 months following index procedure (Interquartile range 1 month). Leaflet thrombosis was detected in 18 patients (23%, 14 Sapien 3, 1 Sapien XT, 2 SJM Portico, 1 Symetis Acurate). In patients with leaflet thickening on CT, only 11% were on either oral anticoagulation or new oral anticoagulants versus 50% for patients with no leaflet thickening (p 0.002). In patients with leaflet thrombosis, 3 leaflets were affected in 5 patients, 2 leaflets in 5 patients and in 8 patient only 1 leaflet was affected. Clinical symptoms (angina, dyspnea or both) were reported in 2/18 patients with leaflet thrombosis (11%) and in both patients a significant increase of the mean echocardiographic gradient over the prosthesis was documented. The peak and mean echocardiographic gradients obtained at the day of CT examination was significantly higher in symptomatic patients versus asymptomatic patients (peak 46 ± 7 vs. 23 ± 11 mmHg, mean 29 ± 7 vs. 12 ± 6 mmHg, p = 0.01 and 0.002, respectively).Follow-up CT was available for 4 patients with complete resolution of the hypo-attenuated leaflet thickening following treatment. ConclusionLeaflet thrombosis following TAVI is a relatively frequent finding in patients referred for contrast enhanced CT angiography following TAVI. In the majority of patients it follows a subclinical course and is substantially more frequent in individuals who are not on oral anticoagulation. However, in patients with relevant increase in prosthetic gradients, symptomatic presentations are possible.

Outcomes of Warfarin Therapy for Bioprosthetic Valve Thrombosis of Surgically Implanted Valves: A Prospective Study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of warfarin in the treatment of bioprosthetic valve thrombosis (BPVT) of surgically implanted valves. BackgroundThere are limited data about treatment outcomes for BPVT. MethodsThis was a prospective study of patients with suspected BPVT of surgically implanted valves who received warfarin therapy at the Mayo Clinic from January 2013 to January 2016. BPVT score was calculated using previously described echocardiographic criteria. One point was assigned for each criterion: a 50% increase in prosthetic gradient within 5 years of implantation, increased cusp thickness, and abnormal cusp motion. ResultsFifty-two patients were enrolled in the study (mean age 61 ± 18 years, 34 men [66%]). The mean follow-up duration from presumed BPVT was 86 ± 24 weeks. Prosthesis positions were aortic in 31 patients (60%), mitral in 17 (32%), pulmonary in 2 (4%), and tricuspid in 2 (4%). Positive responses (defined as a 50% reduction in prosthesis gradient) occurred in 43 patients (83%) within 11 weeks (interquartile range [IQR]: 6 to 22 weeks) of anticoagulation with warfarin. Nine patients (17%) did not respond to warfarin, and these patients underwent surgical valve replacement (n = 5), transcatheter valve replacement (n = 1), and intervention (n = 3). BPVT scores were calculated for 48 patients (92%) with good-quality echocardiographic images; 9 had BPVT scores of 2, and 39 had BPVTs score of 3. A BPVT score of 3 predicted a positive response to anticoagulation therapy with sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 93%. ConclusionsA trial of anticoagulation was effective in 83% of patients with suspected BPVT, and most patients responded within 3 months. BPVT score was predictive of response to therapy and should be considered during patient selection.

Benefits and medium-term outcome of the Sorin Pericarbon Freedom stentless aortic prosthesis in cases of acute bacterial endocarditis.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ease of use and the advantages of Sorin Pericarbon Freedom (SPF) stentless valve in cases of acute bacterial endocarditis and to check the intermediate-term results after the implant of SPF with respect to resistance to infection, valve deterioration and durability. Between June 2003 and February 2015, 26 patients with active aortic valve bacterial endocarditis underwent aortic valve replacement with SPF pericardial stentless aortic prosthesis. The mean age was 57 ± 18 years; 73% of the patients were in preoperative NYHA class III and VI. Mean Logistic EuroSCORE was 14.2 ± 12.7. Endocarditis occurred in 18 patients with native valves, and in 9 patients with prosthetic valves (4 mechanical aortic valve prostheses; 5 aortic bioprostheses). Aortic root abscesses were observed in 16 cases (61.5%). Surgery was emergent in 3 cases (11.5%). Redo surgery was performed in 9 cases (35%). Cumulative follow-up was 126.8 patient-years (mean 4.9 ± 3.3 years). Operative hospital mortality was 0% for all patients. Residual mean prosthetic gradient at discharge was 9.4 ± 3.6 mmHg. Neither residual aortic incompetence nor residual abscess cavity was observed at discharge. Mean ejection fraction at discharge was 54 ± 8% (Min; Max: 35%; 65%). A total of 4 patients died at follow-up, all for non-cardiac causes. One patient was lost to follow-up. Two patients (8%) underwent non-valve-related reoperation with 0% mortality. Residual mean gradient at follow-up was 7.2 ± 2.1 mmHg. Three patients (17%) presented with mild/moderate aortic incompetence and 89% of patients were in NYHA Class I-II at follow-up. At 9 years, actuarial freedom from valve-related reoperation and from structural valve deterioration was 100%. The SPF aortic prosthesis is a true pericardial stentless prosthesis suitable for the treatment of acute bacterial endocarditis. Intermediate-time results in terms of freedom from reoperation, structural valve deterioration and resistance to infections are satisfactory. Haemodynamic performances are excellent since a complete exclusion of aortic root abscesses is achieved without any reduction of the aortic annular diameter, usually due to marsupialization or patch closure of the infected cavities.

104: Comparison of multidetector row computed tomography to echocardiography for evaluation of patients with mechanical and biological prosthetic valves

Our objective was to evaluate whether ECG gated multidetector-row computed tomographic (MDCT) imaging could detect the abnormalities of prosthetic heart valves. We reviewed the image sequences of 35 patients who underwent a MDCT and a echocardiography (TTE) with a total of 46 prosthetic valves (PV) in different position: 27 bileaflet PV, 2 tilting disc, 2 caged ball PV, and 15 biological PV. According to TTE data, 21 were abnormal and 25 normal. MDCT data were retrospectively reconstructed and analyzed using reformatting in anatomically adapted planes. The abnormalities on CT were following: 12 obstructions, 14 dehiscences and 1 vegetation. MDCT identified obstruction with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84%. The causes for obstruction were subprosthetic tissue (pannus) (n=3), thrombus (n=2), leaflets calcifications (n=4), periprostetic and annulus calcifications (n=6). A good correlation was found between the mean prosthetic gradient on TTE and difference of angles for bileaflet PV on MDCT (r=0,7, p=0,0005). 4 patients with PV obstruction were re-operated and the MDCT imaging was confirmed by surgery. MDCT identified dehiscence of PV with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84%. MDCT detect the false aneurysms (n=4) and sequels of ancient abscess (n=6). 5 patients were re-operated and the MDCT imaging of dehiscence was confirmed by surgery. In 6 cases, MDCT showed abnormalities that were not seen during TTE: 3 dehiscences of PV and 3 opening dysfunction of PV without significant obstruction (1 pannus, 1 calcification of prosthetic annulus and 1 asymmetry of opening. The Bjork PV cannot be exanimated on MDCT because of numerous artifacts. This experience demonstrates that MDCT have additional value because it can show perivalvular structures as well as cardiac and mediastinal abnormalities and can identify causes of PV dysfunction that constitute indications for surgery, but could be are missed at TTE.

Feasibility and Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in High-Risk Patients With Stenotic Bicuspid Aortic Valves

Little is known about transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis, which usually represents a contraindication. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and the results of TAVI in this patient subset. Of 316 high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVI from January 2009 to January 2012, 15 (5%) had documented bicuspid aortic valves. They were treated using a transarterial approach, using the Medtronic CoreValve system. Patients were aged 80 ± 10 years, in New York Heart Association functional classes III and IV. The mean aortic valve area was 0.8 ± 0.3 cm(2), and the mean gradient was 60 ± 19 mm Hg. The mean calcium score, calculated using multislice computed tomography, was 4,553 ± 1,872 arbitrary units. The procedure was successful in all but 1 patient. Major adverse events, according to Valvular Academic Research Consortium definitions, were encountered in 1 patient (death). The mean postimplantation prosthetic gradient was 11 ± 4 mm Hg, and ≤1+ periprosthetic leaks were observed in all but 2 patients. The mean prosthetic ellipticity index was 0.7 ± 0.2 at the level of the native annulus and 0.8 ± 0.2 at the level of the prosthetic leaflets. After a mean follow-up period of 8 ± 7 months, 1 patient had died from aortic dissection; there were no additional adverse events. All but 2 hospital survivors were in New York Heart Association class I or II. In conclusion, the present series suggests that transarterial Medtronic CoreValve implantation is feasible in selected patients with bicuspid aortic valve and may lead to short-term hemodynamic and clinical improvement.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve-in-Valve-in-Valve Implantation for a Failed Xenograft

A 78-year-old gentleman with a diagnosis of symptomatic severe xenograft aortic stenosis with multiple comorbidities was referred for transcatheter aortic valve implantation, that is, a "valve-in-valve" procedure. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation was performed by transapical approach using a balloon-expandable bioprosthesis. During valve deployment, the prosthesis moved toward the left ventricle and a second balloon-expandable valve was implanted within the first one-a "valve-in-valve-in-valve" to avoid further ventricular embolization of the first bioprosthesis. Echocardiography at hospital discharge showed a residual mean transvalvular gradient of 17 mm Hg and trivial paravalvular aortic regurgitation. At 1 year follow-up, the patient was in New York Heart Association functional class II.

The Scandinavian multicenter hemodynamic evaluation of the SJM Regent aortic valve

Background112 patients who received small and medium sized St.Jude Regent heart valves (19-25 mm) at 7 Scandinavian centers were studied between January 2003 and February 2005 to obtain non-invasive data regarding the hemodynamic performance at rest and during Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) testing one year after surgery.Material and methods46 woman and 66 men, aged 61.8 ± 9.7 (18-75) years, were operated on for aortic regurgitation (17), stenosis (65), or mixed dysfunction (30). Valve sizes were 19 mm (6), 21 mm (33), 23 mm (41), 25 mm (30). Two patients receiving size 27 valves were excluded from the hemodynamic evaluation. Pledgets were used in 100 patients, everted mattress in 66 and simple interrupted sutures in 21. Valve orientation varied and was dependent on the surgeons' choice. 34 patients (30.4%) underwent concomitant coronary artery surgery.ResultsThere were two early deaths (1.8%) and three late deaths, one because of pancreatic cancer. Late events during follow-up were: non structural dysfunction (1), bleeding (2), thromboembolism (2). At one year follow up 93% of the patients were in NYHA classes 1-2 versus 47.8% preoperatively.Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) was performed in a total of 66 and maximal peak stress was reached in 61 patients.During DSE testing, the following statistically significant changes took place: Heart rate increased by 73.0%, cardiac output by 85.5%, left ventriclular ejection fraction by 19.6%, and maximal mean prosthetic transvalvular gradient by 133.8%, whereas the effective orifice area index did not change.Left ventricular mass fell during one year from 215 ± 63 to 197 ± 62 g (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe Dobutamine test induces a substantial stress, well suitable for echocardiographic assessment of prosthesis valve function and can be performed in the majority of the patients. The changes in pressure gradients add to the hemodynamic characteristics of the various valve sizes.In our patients the St. Jude Regent valve performed satisfactory at rest and under pharmacological stress situation.

The relative contribution of prosthetic gradients, systemic arterial pressure, and pulse pressure to the left ventricular pressure in patients with aortic prosthetic valves

aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with aortic stenosis reduces the left ventricular (LV) pressure and the LV mass. However, residual LV hypertrophy at follow-up is a common finding with negative prognostic impact. In the present study, we investigate the contribution of the prosthesis (size, type, and gradients) and the load opposed by the arterial system to the mean LV pressure (MLVP). twenty-five patients with a bileaflet mechanical (n = 12, size 19-27) or stented biological (size 21-25) valve were included. After weaning from bypass, continuous Doppler recordings (transoesophageal transducer) and simultaneous LV and aortic pressure measurements were performed (high-fidelity catheters). The mean prosthesis gradients with catheter or Doppler were moderately correlated to MLVP (R(2) = 0.40 and 0.34, P = 0.002 and <0.0001). In a multiple regression model, the relationship between MLVP and prosthesis gradient, mean blood pressure, and pulse pressure was strong for both mechanical and biological valves. Using catheter prosthesis gradients, we could explain 97% of the variability in MLVP and when using Doppler gradients 91%. in the present study of patients with aortic prosthetic valves, we demonstrate the importance of the load opposed by the arterial system for the LV pressure. Our findings suggest that the MLVP can be estimated from easily obtainable Doppler data and blood pressure measurements. In analysing predictors of LV mass regression, morbidity, and mortality following AVR, the equations might be of interest.

Influence of prosthesis–patient mismatch on exercise-induced arrhythmias: A further aspect after aortic valve replacement

The influence of prosthesis-patient mismatch on outcome after aortic valve replacement is controversial. This study analyzed the impact of prosthesis-patient mismatch on survival, the extent of left ventricular mass, and physical capacity after replacement with a small-size prosthesis. A total of 157 patients who underwent valve replacement for pure aortic stenosis were reviewed. Late mortality, morbidity, left ventricular mass regression, transprosthetic gradient at rest and after exercise, exercise capacity, and occurrence of arrhythmias were evaluated. Prosthesis-patient mismatch, defined as an indexed effective orifice area of 0.75 cm(2)/m(2) or more, occurred in 96 (61.1%) patients and had no significant impact on early and late mortality. The only independent predictor of mortality was age greater than 65 years. At follow-up, multivariate analysis of prosthetic gradient at rest of 35 mm Hg end exercise capacity or more revealed that both these evidences were associated with high left ventricular mass (P < .001), female gender (P < .001), and follow-up time (P < .001). Arrhythmias occurred during exercise in 34.1% of patients (40/117). Multivariate analysis of occurrence of arrhythmias revealed that they were associated with high mean transprosthetic gradients: values of 50 mm Hg or more during exercise had 95% sensitivity and 72% specificity for predicting arrhythmias. Prosthesis-patient mismatch failed to demonstrate any significant impact on early and late mortality and morbidity and in left ventricular mass regression. High transprosthetic gradients influence exercise capacity and occurrence of arrhythmias.

Experience of the small size (25 mm) Sorin Bicarbon bileaflet prosthetic valve in patients with small mitral annuli.

Currently, there is a tendency to use large-size prosthetic valves in mitral position in order to achieve better hemodynamic performance. We aimed to evaluate hemodynamic performance of 25 mm prosthetic valves in mitral position. Between August 1998 and May 2000, a total of 40 patients, 34 women and 6 men (mean age 42 +/- 12 years), underwent mitral valve replacement with 25 mm bileaflet mechanical valve. Preoperative functional capacity was New York Heart Association classes III and IV in 31 patients. Major indication for surgery was severe mitral stenosis in all patients. Total hospital mortality was 5% (two patients). Mean follow-up period was 14.7 +/- 4.9 months (2 to 23 months). No thromboembolic event, paravalvular leak, mechanical failure, endocarditis were observed during the follow-up period. Postoperatively 92.5% of the patients were in the functional capacity of New York Heart Association class I. Postoperative echocardiographic observations have given an average pulmonary artery pressure of 29 +/- 2 mmHg, effective orifice area as 2.95 +/- 0.1 cm2, and mean prosthetic gradient as 6.5 +/- 2.7 mmHg. In short- and mid-term, small-size (25 mm) Sorin mechanical mitral valves had excellent hemodynamic performance in patients with severe mitral stenosis, moderate or serious pulmonary hypertension, and small mitral annuli, whose body surface area was smaller than 1.6 m2.

Mass regression in aortic stenosis after valve replacement with small size pericardial bioprosthesis

Background The aim of the study was to determine whether left ventricular mass regression is influenced by valve size after the implantation of a Carpentier-Edwards Perimount (CEP) pericardial bioprosthesis for pure aortic stenosis. Methods Patients receiving 19-mm, 21-mm, and 23-mm CEP aortic valves underwent echocardiography preoperatively and at least 1 year after surgery (mean, 2.3 ± 1 years) and the echocardiograms were compared within and between groups. Results The study involved a total of 88 patients: 34 receiving 19-mm CEPs, 29 receiving 21-mm CEPs, and 25 receiving 23-mm CEPs. The mean postoperative prosthetic gradients were respectively 20.6 ± 6.6 mm Hg, 17.9 ± 5.8 mm Hg, and 13.2 ± 4.1 mm Hg ( p = 0.0001); the mean postoperative valve areas were respectively 1.24 ± 0.16 cm 2, 1.45 ± 0.2 cm 2, and 1.63 ± 0.21 cm 2 ( p = 0.0001). In comparison with the preoperative echocardiographic measurements absolute left ventricular mass significantly decreased by −54.1 ± 48.8 g, −54.1 ± 55.1 g, and −74.4 ± 57.4 g respectively with no statistically significant between-group difference (analysis of variance) but ventricular septum and posterior wall thickness significantly decreased in each group ( p < 0.05). Conclusions The implantation of 19-mm, 21-mm, and 23-mm CEP aortic prostheses significantly reduces left ventricular mass without any size-related differences.

The Monostrut Björk-Shiley valve

The results of cardiac valve replacement with the Monostrut Björk-Shiley prosthesis (Shiley, Inc., Irvine, Calif.) during a 7-year period are presented. A total of 984 valves were implanted in 820 patients from May 1983 to April 1990. Aortic valve replacement was performed in 378 patients, mitral replacement in 294, and multiple replacement in 148. In addition, 180 patients (22%) underwent associated procedures. Mean age was 52.6 +/- 11 years. Operative (30 days) mortality was 5.9% (49 patients): 3.9% (15 patients) for aortic, 7.8% (23 patients) for mitral, and 7.4% (11 patients) for multiple valve replacement. All patients were given long-term anticoagulation therapy. Follow-up was 99% complete (eight patients were lost to follow-up), with a closing interval of 3 months, and totaled 2422 patient-years. Valve-related complications, expressed as percentage event-free (+/- standard error) at seven years were as follows: structural deterioration, 100%; nonstructural dysfunction, 98.3% +/- 0.6%; thromboembolism, 90.2% +/- 1.7%; anticoagulant-related hemorrhage, 88.7% +/- 2.8%; and prosthetic valve endocarditis, 98.1% +/- 0.8%. There were no cases of valve thrombosis. Actuarial survival (free from operative, valve-related, and sudden death) was 88.4% +/- 1.2% at 7 years. Freedom from reoperation was 96.8% +/- 0.1%. Probability of being free from all valve-related morbidity and mortality was 70% +/- 3%, and 708 (93%) of the survivors were in New York Heart Association class I or II. Serial Doppler echocardiograms were done prospectively in 243 patients (with 154 aortic and 120 mitral prostheses), both postoperatively and at regular intervals up to 3 years. Mean prosthetic gradients ranged from an average of 20.9 to 7 mm Hg in the aortic prostheses (21 to 29 mm) and from 6.1 to 4.8 mm Hg in the mitral prostheses (25 to 31 mm). The gradients in each patient did not change significantly during the follow-up period. Our 7 year's experience with the Monostrut valve shows a low rate of valve-related complications, a durable design, and good hemodynamic and functional results.