Systolic Pressure Gradient Research Articles

Haemodynamic Patterns of Severe Aortic Stenosis

The authors present up-to-date review of clinical pathophysiology of aortic stenosis (AS) based on differentiation of its haemodynamic patterns, and some actual issues of instrumental diagnostics and classification of AS. The variety of clinical presentations of AS is based on diverse combination of pathological changes of haemodynamics. In Russian cardiology, there is no clear pathophysiological classification of AS despite of its relevance under the progress of surgical and transcatheter treatment of AS. The authors suggest the pilot haemodynamic classification of AS which includes 6 types (0-5) based on different combination of the following variables: left ventricle ejection fraction, stroke volume, mean aortic systolic pressure gradient. Severe AS with low transaortic pressure gradient in patients with depressed systolic function of the left ventricle (so called «low flow-low» gradient phenomenon) is referred to as the most frequent, classical haemodynamic pattern of low-gradient AS. The prevalence of this variant is about 10% among European population of patients with severe AS. The inconsistence between aortic valve area and mean pressure gradient is as common as in 35-40% of patients with AS, however, in 30-50% of these cases, AS is not severe. Severe AS is a surgical disease that should be treated in a surgical way in all patients but those in whom predicted risk overbalances potential benefits of the procedure. The use of integrated clinical and instrumental approach for identification of a true sever AS is the matter of great concern, as both overestimation and underestimation can misguide the clinical decision-making process. Verification of severe AS in patients with classical and paradoxical low flow-low gradient AS with specific indications for surgical treatment regarded is further emphasized in the paper. Since transcatheter aortic valve implantation has become a commonly recognized alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement, its role in the treatment of severe AS with different haemodynamic patterns is also discussed. The authors stress on the necessity of using tailored approach for treatment of AS regarding different clinical and pathophysiological scenarios: high gradient AS with preserved ejection fraction, classical and paradoxical low flow-low gradient AS.

Assessment of hemodynamic responses to exercise in aortic coarctation using MRI-ergometry in combination with computational fluid dynamics

In patients with aortic coarctation it would be desirable to assess pressure gradients as well as information about blood flow profiles at rest and during exercise. We aimed to assess the hemodynamic responses to physical exercise by combining MRI-ergometry with computational fluid dynamics (CFD). MRI was performed on 20 patients with aortic coarctation (13 men, 7 women, mean age 21.5 ± 13.7 years) at rest and during ergometry. Peak systolic pressure gradients, wall shear stress (WSS), secondary flow degree (SFD) and normalized flow displacement (NFD) were calculated using CFD. Stroke volume was determined based on MRI. On average, the pressure gradient was 18.0 ± 16.6 mmHg at rest and increased to 28.5 ± 22.6 mmHg (p < 0.001) during exercise. A significant increase in cardiac index was observed (p < 0.001), which was mainly driven by an increase in heart rate (p < 0.001). WSS significantly increased during exercise (p = 0.006), whereas SFD and NFD remained unchanged. The combination of MRI-ergometry with CFD allows assessing pressure gradients as well as flow profiles during physical exercise. This concept has the potential to serve as an alternative to cardiac catheterization with pharmacological stress testing and provides hemodynamic information valuable for studying the pathophysiology of aortic coarctation.

Determinants of left ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction in adults with coarctation of aorta

Abstract Background Several coarctation of aorta (COA) severity indices are used for timing of COA intervention, and to define severity of residual coarctation post-intervention. However, it is unclear how many of these COA indices are required in order to recommend intervention, and what degree of residual coarctation results in suboptimal recovery of the left ventricle (LV). Our aim was to assess the correlation between different COA indices and effects of chronic LV pressure overload (LV hypertrophy, diastolic and systolic dysfunction), and to determine the effect of residual coarctation on LV reverse remodeling after COA intervention. Methods COA severity indices were defined as Doppler COA gradient, systolic blood pressure, upper-to-lower-extremity systolic blood pressure gradient, aortic isthmus ratio. LV remodeling indices were defined as LV mass index (LVMI), LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), e' and E/e'. LV reverse remodeling was defined as the difference between indices obtained pre-intervention and 5-years post-intervention (delta LVMI, e', E/e', LVGLS). Results Of the COA indices analyzed in 546 adult COA patients, aortic isthmus ratio had the strongest correlation with LVMI (β±standard error −28.3±14.1, p&amp;lt;0.001), LVGLS (1.51±0.42, p=0.005), e' (3.11±1.10, p=0.014), and E/e' (−13.4±6.67, p=0.008). Residual aortic isthmus ratio also had the strongest correlation with LV reverse remodeling, and residual aortic isthmus ratio &amp;lt;0.7 was predictive of suboptimal LV reverse remodeling post-intervention. Conclusion Considering the known prognostic implications of LV remodeling and reverse remodeling in response to pressure overload, these results support the use of aortic isthmus ratio for timing of COA intervention, and for prognostication post-intervention. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

The efficacy and safety of percutaneous balloon angioplasty for aortic coarctation in children. Acute and mid-term results in a single center experience.

Objectives:To assess the efficacy and safety of balloon angioplasty (BAP) procedure for treatment of coarctation of the aorta (CoA) in children.Methods:A retrospective study included 27 consecutive children, underwent BAP for either native-CoA (Na-CoA) or recoarctation (Re-CoA). Medical records, echocardiographic findings, angiographic and hemodynamic data were collected from the hospital database. Follow-up was scheduled at 1, 3, 6, 12 months after the procedure. The study took place over a period of 4.5 years, from April 2014 to January 2019, in Madinah Cardiac Center, Madinah, Northwest region, Saudi Arabia.Results:The mean age of patients was 11.86±8.96 months. Seven children had Na-CoA and 20 children had Re-CoA. The success rate of the procedure was achieved in 23 children (85%), as BAP reduced the mean systolic pressure gradient across the CoA (Na-CoA: from 45.28± 18.3 to 9.8± 6.57 mm Hg, p=0.0009), and in Re-CoA groups (from 42.48±16.7 to 10.9±8.5 mm Hg, p<0.0001). In mid-term follow-up, the need for re-intervention occurred in 8 children of the cohort (3 children [42.8%] from the Na-CoA group, and 5 children [25%] from the Re-CoA group).Conclusions:Balloon angioplasty is considered a safe procedure for the management of CoA, but its efficacy remains questionable especially for young infants with Na-CoA type. However, it is a reliable option for managing Re-CoA children, with a lower rate of future re-intervention.

Balloon Angioplasty for Native Aortic Coarctation in 3- to 12-Month-Old Infants.

Balloon angioplasty for native coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is successful in children and adults but in neonates results in frequent restenosis. The efficacy of balloon angioplasty for native CoA during infancy beyond the neonatal period was examined in infants aged 3 to 12 months of age. A retrospective review of 68 infants who underwent balloon angioplasty for native CoA. 95% CI are in parentheses. Procedural age was (mean±SD) 6±3.4 months and weight was 7±1.8 kg. Balloon angioplasty produced a large decrease in both the noninvasive arm-to-leg blood pressure gradient (41.2±18.7 to 5.6±9.6 mm Hg) and the invasive peak systolic pressure gradient (34±12 to 11±9 mm Hg). Balloon angioplasty increased the CoA diameter from 2.7±1 mm to 4.6±1.2 mm. One patient was lost to follow-up. A catheter reintervention was required in 11.8% and surgery in 10.3%. The hazard of reintervention was highest early. Median freedom from reintervention was 89% (95% CI, 80%-96%) at 1 year, 83% (95% CI, 73%-92%) at 5 years, and 81% (95% CI, 69%-90%) at 10 years. Femoral artery thrombosis was documented in 6 (9%) infants without any long-term consequence. One patient developed a small aortic aneurysm late and has not required treatment. A robust estimate of the frequency of aortic aneurysms remains to be determined as the majority of subjects have not had cross-sectional imaging. Balloon angioplasty of native CoA is effective and safe in infants aged 3 to 12 months with outcomes comparable to those in older children and adults. Catheter reinterventions can avoid the need for surgery in most patients.

Covered stent placement for treatment of coarctation of the aorta: immediate and long-term results

Objectives This study aimed to describe the safety and efficacy of covered stents in patients with coarctation of aorta (CoA) for immediate and long-term follow-up. Background Covered stents are increasingly being used in (re)CoA, mainly to reduce the risk of aortic wall injuries (AWI). However, limited data are available on intermediate and long-term outcome. Methods In 89 patients (67.4% male) with a mean age of 23.9 ± 15.8 (min max range 5.1–71.6) years were 102 covered stents implanted (January 2003 – December 2017). Short-term pre/post-implant hemodynamics and angiographic data were reported. Changes in blood pressure, the use of antihypertensive drugs and complications were recorded during follow-up. Results The procedural success rate was 100%. The mean invasive ascending-to-descending aorta systolic gradient under general anaesthesia decreased from 25 ± 16 mmHg to 4 ± 7 mmHg (p < 0.001). After a mean follow-up time of 6.6 ± 3.7 years, there was a persistent improvement of the mean systolic blood pressure gradient between right arm and leg (−7 ± 18 vs 38 ± 24 mmHg; p < 0.001). A larger proportion of patients required antihypertensive medication (33.7% vs 50.0%, p = 0.017) and needed ≥ 2 drugs (20.2% vs 27.4%, p = 0.066) to control blood pressure. Long-term adverse events were found in 4.5% of patients [covered stent fracture (n = 3), aneurysm formation (n = 2)]. Conclusions Covered stent implantation for CoA is highly successful, safe and results in a persistent hemodynamic improvement in the immediate and long-term outcome. Lifelong follow-up with additional antihypertensive drug treatment is mandatory to maintain favourable hemodynamic results after stenting. CONDENSED ABSTRACT Long-term follow-up data on covered stents in patients with coarctation of the aorta are scarce. A cohort of 89 patients was reviewed. The procedural implantation success rate was 100%. The invasive gradient decreased from 25 ± 16 mmHg to 4 ± 7 mmHg (p < 0.001). After follow-up of 6.6 ± 3.7 years, there was a persistent improvement of the clinical systolic blood pressure gradient (−7 ± 18 vs 38 ± 24 mmHg; p < 0.001). However, a larger proportion of patients required antihypertensive medication (33.7% vs 50.0%, p = 0.017). Covered stent implantation results in favourable hemodynamic effects, but lifelong follow-up with additional antihypertensive drug treatment is mandatory to maintain these results.

Successful surgery for a right ventricle rhabdomyoma in a neonate

Primary cardiac tumors are very rare in children. Rhabdomyoma is the most common benign tumor in fetuses and neonates. Most cases do not require any surgical intervention due to absence of clinical symptoms and a high rate of spontaneous regression within the first year of life. However, some neonates can have significant abnormalities of intracardial hemodynamics related to the obstruction of the left and right ventricle outflows; this is an indication to emergency surgery. As a rule, complete or partial resection of the tumor mass provides uneventful postoperative course and is not associated with a relapse of rhabdomyoma in the long-term.We present a clinical case of a 15-days old neonate who underwent an emergency surgery due to advanced tumor obstruction of the blood flow in the right ventricle outflow tract (RVOT). At preoperative echocardiography, there was a pulmonary artery systolic pressure gradient of 90 mm Hg. Moderate hypoxemia (SaO290%), breathing rate of up to 55 per minute, together with echocardiographic results, indicated the impaired pulmonary blood flow and the need for the tumor resection. The tumor was completely resected through the right ventricle access with cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegia, with subsequent autologous pericardium patching of the right ventricle. The postoperative period was uneventful; the patient was extubated at day 2 and discharged at day 11 after surgery. The diagnosis of rhabdomyoma was confirmed histologically. At one month after surgery, no additional tumor masses were found in the heart chambers and septum.Rhabdomyoma causing severe obstruction of the RVOT in a newborn is a rare life-threatening complication of the natural course of benign heart tumors in children. The presence of dyspnea at rest, moderate desaturation, and echocardiographic data determined the rejection of the conservative management commonly adopted in most cases of cardiac rhabdomyomas, and were indications for an emergency surgery. In the long-term postoperative period, magnetic resonance imaging should be done to exclude tuberous sclerosis.

Valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement on a self-expandable nitinol frame due to degeneration of primary bioprosthetic valve cusps. Clinical case of a high-risk surgical female patient

Introduction. We present the clinical observation of a 72-year-old female patient with high surgical risk and structural degeneration of a bioprosthetic aortic valve (AV) cusps in the form of stenosis, accompanied by severe dysfunction. Transcatheter implantation of bioprosthesis Medtronic CoreValve™ Evolut™ R-23 was performed using the valve-in-valve technique. The choice of minimally invasive treatment tactics is substantiated, a preoperative examination algorithm and a specific bioprosthesis model for such intervention are provided. Materials and methods. Imaging – echocardiography (Echo), electrocardiography, multispiral computed tomography, coronary angiography. Bioprosthetic valve calcification and stenosis with critical parameters of the bioprosthetic AV peak pressure gradient according to Echo data were the indications for minimally invasive surgery. Results. Dynamic observation revealed a progressive deterioration in the function of the previously implanted bioprosthetic heart valve in the aortic position, and a critical deterioration in the patient’s condition. After additional examination of the patient and selection of a new prosthesis, valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement was done. The positive dynamics of the general state of the patient was noted in the early postoperative period. Echo data showed that the bioprosthetic AV peak systolic pressure gradient decreased from 90 to 29 mmHg, average gradient – from 42 to 19 mmHg. Conclusion. The minimally invasive valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement used to correct the dysfunction of a bioprosthetic AV that was previously implanted during an open surgery was shown to be safe and effective and can be considered as one of the options for repeat valve replacement.

The Effect of Oral Ibuprofen on Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Term Neonates: A Clinical Trial Study

Background The function of ductus arteriosus closes within a few minutes to a few days after birth in term neonates. In some cases, the duct remains open after birth, a condition which is called patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). PDA is associated with high rates of neonatal mortality and morbidity. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of oral ibuprofen on closure of PDA in term neonates. Materials and Methods In this clinical trial, 40 neonates (at the gestational age of 37 weeks and more) aged 5 to 30 days, with confirmed PDA through echocardiography, were randomly divided into two groups (n= 20). One group received ibuprofen syrup (10 mg/kg body weight) in the first 24 hours, followed by 5 mg/kg body weight for the next four days. The other group received placebo in the same manner. On the seventh day after the beginning of intervention, neonates underwent echocardiography for examination of PDA closure. Side effects of ibuprofen were evaluated. Symptoms of kidney failure, such as oliguria, edema, and proteinuria and increased creatinine, as well as gastrointestinal side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and recurrent vomiting, were assessed for one month. Results According to the results, PDA diameter was not significantly different in ibuprofen compared to the placebo groups before (p>0.05) and after (p>0.05) intervention. Frequency of PDA closure was 13 (65%) in the ibuprofen group and 10 (50%) in the placebo group with no significant difference (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in the mean systolic and diastolic pressure gradient after intervention and in mean changes in pulmonary arterial hypertension between the two groups (p>0.05). No side effects were observed in any of the groups. Conclusion: Based on the results, oral ibuprofen did not significantly affect PDA closure in term neonates.

Canine infantile left ventricular noncompaction

BackgroundLeft ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy currently described in humans and cats. It consists of a spongy myocardium characterized by prominent trabeculation and deep recesses involving more than 50% of the ventricular thickness. We describe the clinical and pathological features of LVNC combined with tricuspid valve dysplasia, double-orifice tricuspid valve and severe pulmonary stenosis in a puppy. In addition, we briefly review the LVNC causes, pathogenesis, forms and current diagnostic criteria.Case presentationA seven-week-old intact German Shorthaired Pointer-cross male was presented with a poor body condition, exercise intolerance and dyspnea. Clinical exam identified a bilateral systolic murmur (grade IV/VI over the right heart base and grade III/VI over the left heart base). Echocardiography identified tricuspid valve dysplasia, mild mitral regurgitation, and severe pulmonic stenosis with a trans-valvar systolic pressure gradient of 106 mmHg. Left ventricular noncompaction was diagnosed by necropsy and further confirmed histopathologically by the presence of two distinct myocardial layers: an inner noncompacted zone covering more than 50% of ventricular thickness containing prominent trabeculation and deep recesses, and an outer zone of compact myocardium.ConclusionsThis is the first case describing LVNC in a canine patient, supporting the introduction of this form of heart disease as a differential diagnosis for cardiomyopathies in juvenile and adult dogs.

Application of Modified Sliding Anastomosis in the Repair of Aortic Coarctation.

Objectives To evaluate the early and midterm results of a modified sliding anastomosis technique in patients with aortic coarctation. Materials and Methods In this study, we reported a new repair method and compared the early and midterm outcome(s) with a conventional surgical approach for the management of patients with aortic coarctation. Forty-eight aortic coarctation patients with a narrowed segment length longer than 2 cm were operated at our department's pediatric surgical division. Excision of the coarctation and end-to-end anastomosis was carried out in twenty-five patients (control group). In contrast, a modified sliding technique was used for twenty-three cases in the observation group. Other accompanying cardiac anomalies simultaneously repaired included ventricular septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus. All patients received 1.5-10 years of postoperative echocardiographic follow-up. Results This is a retrospective study carried out between January 2005 and June 2018. The study population consisted of forty-eight patients, which included twenty-six male and twenty-two female patients, with an average age of 5.2 ± 1.9 months (range, 28 days to 1 year). There was no mortality. The operative time, the number of intercostal artery disconnection, the drainage volume, and arm-leg systolic pressure gradient postoperation were less in the observation group as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Also, cases with an anastomotic pressure gradient exceeding 10 mmHg during follow-up were less in the observation group as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The postoperative complications encountered were chylothorax (control group 2 cases vs. observation group 0) and pulmonary atelectasis (control group 4 cases vs. observation group 1). They all, however, recovered after conservative treatment. Three patients in the control group underwent balloon angioplasty (reintervention) postoperative 2-4 years due to an increase in the anastomotic pressure gradient (>20 mmHg). After reintervention, the anastomotic pressure gradient reduced to 14 mmHg, 15 mmHg, and 17 mmHg, respectively. Conclusions For long segment aortic coarctation patients (longer than 2 cm), the use of the modified sliding anastomotic technique effectively helps to retain more autologous tissues, enlarge the diameter of the anastomosis, and decrease anastomotic tension and vascular injury. Therefore, this technique provides a new idea for the surgical treatment of aortic coarctations.

Analysis of inter-system variability of systolic and diastolic intraventricular pressure gradients derived from color Doppler M-mode echocardiography

Assessment of intraventricular pressure gradients (IVPG) using color Doppler M-mode echocardiography has gained increasing interest in the evaluation of cardiac function. However, standardized analysis tools for IVPG quantification are missing. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility, the test-retest observer reproducibility, and the inter-system variability of a semi-automated IVPG quantification algorithm. The study included forty healthy volunteers (50% were men). All volunteers were examined using two ultrasound systems, the Philips Epiq 7 and the General Electric Vivid 6. Left ventricular diastolic (DIVPG) and systolic (SIVPG) intraventricular pressure gradients were measured from the spatiotemporal distribution of intraventricular propagation flow velocities using color Doppler M-mode in standard apical views. There was good feasibility for both systolic and diastolic IVPG measurements (82.5% and 85%, respectively). Intra and inter-observer test-retest variability measured with the intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.98 and 0.93 for DIVPG respectively, and 0.95 and 0.89 for SIVPG respectively. The inter-system concordance was weak to moderate with Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient of 0.59 for DIVPG and 0.25 for SIVPG. In conclusion, it is feasible and reproducible to assess systolic and diastolic IVPG using color Doppler M-mode in healthy volunteers. However, the inter-system variability in IVPG analysis needs to be taken into account, especially when using displayed data.

Intracoronary pressure gradient measurement in acute myocardial infarction patients with the no-reflow phenomenon during primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

BackgroundVarious experimental and clinical studies have reported on coronary microcirculatory dysfunction (“no-reflow” phenomenon). Nevertheless, pathogenesis and effective treatment are yet to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to measure the intracoronary pressure gradient in the no-reflow artery during emergent percutaneous coronary intervention and explore the potential mechanism of no-reflow.MethodsFrom September 1st, 2018 to June 30th, 2019, intracoronary pressure in acute myocardial infarction patient was continuously measured by aspiration catheter from distal to proximal segment in the Department of Coronary Care Unit, Tianjin Chest Hospital, respectively in no-reflow arteries (no-reflow group) and arteries with thrombolysis in myocardial infarction-3 flow (control group). At least 12 cardiac cycles were consecutively recorded when the catheter was pulled back. The forward systolic pressure gradient was calculated as proximal systolic pressure minus distal systolic pressure. Comparison between groups was made using the Student t test, Mann-Whitney U-test or Chi-square test, as appropriate.ResultsIntracoronary pressure in 33 no-reflow group and 26 in control group were measured. The intracoronary forward systolic pressure gradient was −1.3 (−4.8, 0.7) and 3.8 (0.8, 8.8) mmHg in no-reflow group and control group (Z = −3.989, P < 0.001), respectively, while the forward diastolic pressure gradient was −1.0 (−3.2, 0) and 4.6 (0, 16.5) mmHg in respective groups (Z = −3.851, P < 0.001). Moreover, the intracoronary forward pressure gradient showed significant difference between that before and after nicorandil medication (Z = −3.668, P < 0.001 in systolic pressure gradient and Z = −3.530, P < 0.001 in diastolic pressure gradient).ConclusionsNo reflow during emergent coronary revascularization is significantly associated with local hemodynamic abnormalities in the coronary arteries. Intracoronary nicorandil administration at the distal segment of a coronary artery with an aspiration catheter could improve the microcirculatory dysfunction and resume normal coronary pressure gradient.Clinical trial registrationwww.ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT 03600259).

Long-term results of percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty in children with aortic stenosis: a single-center experience.

Percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) is an effective method of treatment for aortic stenosis in children. This study aimed to assess the long‑term results of BAV in various age groups in the pediatric population. This retrospective study included 68 patients (newborns, infants, and children older than 1 year). We analyzed their demographic data and measurements performed with the use of cardiac catheterization, angiography, and echocardiography at 3 time points: before, directly after, and at late follow‑up after BAV, including the invasive aortic valve peak‑to‑peak systolic pressure gradient (PGpeak), maximum systolic pressure gradient (PGmax) by Doppler echocardiography, and the severity of aortic regurgitation (AR). Long‑‑term follow‑up data were available for 57 patients. The BAV procedure led to a significant reduction in the PGpeak values. Late follow‑up revealed a progression of AR. Aortic regurgitation of grade 2 or higher directly after BAV was the strongest risk factor for severe AR at late follow‑up. After 5, 10, and 18 years after BAV, surgical treatment was not required in 90%, 77%, and 59.5% of patients, respectively. Severe AR and a residual PG less than 35 mm Hg at late follow‑up were stronger risk factors for aortic valve surgery than moderate AR and PG higher than or equal to 35 mm Hg. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty is an effective method of treatment for aortic stenosis in children, which delays the need for surgery. The progression of AR occurs at late follow‑up. A greater reduction in PGmax is a risk factor for at least moderate AR directly after BAV, which results in the progression of AR at late follow‑up.

Right Ventricular Growth and Function After Balloon Valvuloplasty for Critical Pulmonary Valve Stenosis in Infants and Neonates.

Little data are published about right ventricular (RV) growth and function in infants and neonates after balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (BPV) for critical valvular pulmonary stenosis (PS). We aimed to assess the RV growth and function during 1year after BPV for critical valvular PS in neonates and infants. A total of 41 infants and neonates with isolatedcriticalvalvular PSwho underwent BPV from August 2016 to Sep 2018 were enrolled in the study. Complete Echocardiographic examination was performed to all infants before, 1week, 1month, 3months, 6months, and 1year after BPV. The RV systolic pressure and transvalvular pulmonary pressure gradient significantly decreased 1week after BPV and continue to decrease more slowly during the period of follow-up. During follow-up, RV end-diastolic dimension increased significantly, whereas RV anterior wall thickness significantly decreased. The mean diameters of pulmonary valve annulus and tricuspid valve annulus significantly increased after BPV over the period of follow-up. RV systolic and diastolic dysfunction improved significantly as reported by reduced RV Tei index and tricuspid annular systolic velocity and increased RV E/A ratio. RV growth and function were significantly improved after BPV for critical PS in infants and neonates and catch-up growth of right ventricular structures occurred after 6months of BPV.

Early and late outcomes of surgical repair of double-chambered right ventricle: a single-centre experience.

Double-chambered right ventricle is characterised by division of the outlet portion of the right ventricle by hypertrophy of the septoparietal trabeculations into two parts. We aim to report our experiences regarding the presenting symptoms of double-chambered right ventricle, long-term prognosis, including the recurrence rate and incidence of arrhythmias after surgery. We retrospectively investigated 89 consecutive patients who were diagnosed to have double-chambered right ventricle and underwent a surgical intervention from 1995 to 2016. The data obtained by echocardiography, cardiac catheterisation, and surgical findings as well as post-operative follow-up, surgical approaches, post-operative morbidity, mortality, and cardiac events were evaluated. Median age at the time of diagnosis was 2 months and mean age at the time of operation was 5.3 years. Concomitant cardiac anomalies were as follows: perimembranous ventricular septal defect (78 patients), atrial septal defect (9 patients), discrete subaortic membrane (32 patients), right aortic arch (3 patients), aortic valve prolapse and/or mild aortic regurgitation (14 patients), and left superior caval vein (2 patients). The mean follow-up period was 4.86 ± 4.6 years. In these patients, mean systolic pressure gradient in the right ventricle by echocardiography before, immediately, and long-term after surgical intervention was 66.3, 11.8, and 10.4 mmHg, respectively. There were no deaths during the long-term follow-up period. Surgical reinterventions were performed for residual ventricular septal defect (2), residual pulmonary stenosis (1), and severe tricuspid insufficiency (1). The surgical outcomes and prognosis of double-chambered right ventricle are favourable, recurrence and fatal arrhythmias are unlikely in long-term follow-up.

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in patients with high-risk pulmonary embolism and contraindications for thrombolytic therapy.

BackgroundHigh-risk pulmonary embolism is associated with a high early mortality rate. We report our experience with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in patients with high-risk pulmonary embolism and contraindications for thrombolytic therapy.Patients and methodsThis was a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with high-risk pulmonary embolism and contraindications to thrombolytic therapy. They were treated with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy which included thrombectomy and additional thrombus aspiration when needed. Clinical parameters and survival to discharge were measured.ResultsFrom November 2005 to September 2015 we treated 25 patients with a mean age of 62.6 ± 12.7 years, 64% were men. Mean simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index was 2.9. Mean maximum lactate levels were 7.8 ± 6.6 mmol/L, vasopressors were used in 77%, and 59% needed mechanical ventilation. Mechanical treatment included thrombus fragmentation complemented with aspiration (56%) and aspiration using Aspirex®S catheter (44%). Local (5 patients; 20%) and systemic (3 patients; 12%) thrombolytics were used as a salvage therapy. We observed nonsignificant improvements in systemic blood pressure (100 ± 41 mm Hg vs 119 ± 34; p = 0.100) and heart frequency (99 ± 35 min-1 vs 87 ± 31 min-1; p = 0.326) before and after treatment, respectively. Peak systolic tricuspid pressure gradient was significantly lower after treatment (57 ± 14 mm Hg vs 31 ± 3 mm Hg; p = 0.018). Overall the procedure was technically successful in 20 patients (80%) and 17 patients (68%) survived to hospital discharge.ConclusionsIn patients with high-risk pulmonary embolism who cannot receive thrombolytic therapy, percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy is a promising alternative to reduce pulmonary artery pressure.

Circular Sympathetic Pulmonary Artery Denervation in Cardiac Surgery Patients With Mitral Valve Defect, Atrial Fibrillation and High Pulmonary Hypertension

Objective Investigate the influence of the sympathetic denervation of the pulmonary trunk and the orifices of thepulmonary arteries on the degree of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and outcomes of the surgicaltreatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with mitral valve defects, complicated AF, and high PH.Material and methods We analyzed the surgical treatment of 140 patients with mitral valve defect, concomitant AF, and highPH - pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) gradient more than 40 mm Hg. The group of interestincluded 51 patients (46 patients with severe mitral stenosis and five patients with grade 4 mitralvalve regurgitation). All patients underwent mitral valve correction (47 valve replacement surgeriesand 4 valve-sparing interventions), biatrial Maze IV procedure, and additionally, denervation of thepulmonary trunk and the orifices of the pulmonary arteries. The control group included 89 patientsdiagnosed with mitral valve defect, AF, and PH with PASP &gt; 40 mm Hg. However, unlike in patientsof interest, denervation of the pulmonary arteries was not performed.Results Circular radiofrequency denervation of the pulmonary trunk and the orifices of the pulmonaryarteries using a clamp-destructor is an effective and safe method, significantly reduces secondary PH(p=0.018), promotes reverse remodeling of the heart chambers, left atrium in particular (p=0.01),and improves outcomes of the Maze IV procedure (p=0.022) by restoring sinus rhythm in patientswith mitral valve defects, complicated AF, and high PH.Conclusion This technique must be studied further involving a more significant number of patients, analyzinglong-term results, and using this technique in patients with non-valvular causes of secondary PH.

Pulsed-wave doppler echocardiographic cardiac dimensions of Muzaffarnagari sheep

With the aim to determine reference pulsed-wave Doppler echocardiographic cardiac dimensions in sheep, transthoracic echocardiographic examination in right lateral position was performed in 20 healthy adult female Muzaffarnagari sheep. The study was conducted between August, 2014 and March, 2015 at ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar. The peak early (Emax) and late (Amax) transmitral filling velocities were 61.75±2.93 and 42.17±2.52 cm/s, respectively. The mean early (Emean) and late (Amean) transmitral filling velocities were 31.67±1.45 and 21.86±1.26 cm/s, respectively. The velocity time integrals of transmitral filling during early ventricular filling (VTIE) and atrial contraction (VTIA) were 8.22±0.29 and 4.52±0.39 cm, respectively. The peak early (PPGE) and late (PPGA) transmitral filling pressure gradients were 1.58±0.15 and 0.75±0.08 mmHg, respectively. The mean early (MPGE) and late (MPGA) transmitral filling pressure gradients were 0.42±0.04 and 0.20±0.02 mmHg, respectively. Early (ETE)andlate (ETA) transmitral filling ejection time were 0.27±0.01 and 0.21±0.02 s, respectively. Emax/Amax, VTIE: VTIA ETE: ETA and PPGE: PPGA ratios were 1.50±0.05, 2.11±0.23, 1.43±0.15 and 2.30±0.17, respectively. The peak (AOVmax), mean (AOVmean), velocity time integral (VTIAO), peak systolic pressure gradient (PPGAO), mean systolic pressure gradient (MPGAO), and ejection time (ETAO) of the aortic flow were 87.59±5.54 cm/s, 43.68±2.87 cm/s, 10.94±0.80 cm, 3.19±0.39 AO mmHg, 0.80±0.10 mmHg and 0.25±0.01s, respectively. These pulsed-wave Doppler echocardiographic cardiac dimension reference values in Muzaffarnagari sheep could serve as a reference for physiological and cardiovascular studies in this breed.

The hemodynamic impact of the bidirectional flow within calf perforators and conductive veins in varicose vein disease

The hemodynamic assessment of the bidirectional flow within calf perforators and in the conductive veins in varicose vein disease is presented. The bidirectional streaming within calf perforators is induced by the changing polarity of the systolic and diastolic pressure gradients arising during calf pump activity between the deep veins and the saphenous system of the lower leg, as documented by simultaneous pressure measurements in the posterior tibial vein and the great saphenous vein. This bidirectional flow makes the deep and superficial veins of the lower leg conjoined vessels. The vector of the bidirectional streaming in varicose vein patients is oriented inward, into the deep veins. The enlarged calf perforators are the consequence of the saphenous reflux; after elimination of saphenous reflux the diameter of calf perforators diminishes significantly. Results of venous pressure, plethysmographic and electromagnetic flow measurements rebut the still prevalent opinion that the outward flow within calf perforators is a reflux. There is an up-and-down flow in the conductive veins during calf pump activity with a prevailing systolic centripetal (orthograde) flow in the popliteal/femoral axis and a diastolic centrifugal (retrograde) flow in the incompetent great saphenous vein. The popliteal vein represents actually the drain pipe of the calf muscle pump. The ambulatory venous pressure gradient arising during the diastolic phase of the calf pump activity resembles the diastolic pressure difference between the aorta and the left ventricle.