Tenting Area Research Articles

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation and its impact on mitral valve geometry and function.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on mitral valve geometry and function. Eighty-four patients underwent TAVI. Forty-four (52%) patients received a balloon-expandable valve and 40 (48%) were implanted with a self-expandable valve. All patients underwent three-dimensional-volumetric transesophageal echocardiography of the mitral valve before and immediately after TAVI. A dedicated software was used for assisted semiautomatic measurement of mitral annular geometry. During systole, the anterior to posterior (AP) diameter was significantly reduced after the procedure (3.4 ± 0.5 cm vs 3.2 ± 0.5 cm; P < .05). The mitral annular area (10.8 ± 2.8cm2 vs 9.9 ± 2.6cm2 ; P < .05) as well as the tenting area (1.6 ± 0.7 cm2 vs 1.2 ± 0.6 cm2 ; P < .001) measured at mid-systole were reduced after TAVI. Diastolic measures were similar. Patients treated with balloon-expandable valves showed a significantly larger reduction in the AP diameter compared to self-expandable valves (-0.25 cm vs -0.11 cm; P < .05). The reduction of the annular area was higher in the balloon-expandable group (-1.2 ± 1.59 vs -0.22 ± 1.41; P < .05). Grade of mitral regurgitation did improve or remained stable after TAVI. TAVI significantly impacts the mitral valve and mitral annular geometry and morphology. The choice of the prosthesis (balloon- vs self-expandable) may be relevant for those changes.

Refining Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation Definition by Echocardiography with a New Outcomes-Based “Massive” Grade

Current echocardiographic guidelines recommend that tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity be graded in three categories, following assessment of specific parameters. Findings from recent trials have shown that the severity of TR frequently far exceeds the current definition of severe. We postulated that a grading approach that emphasizes outcomes could be useful to identify patients with severe TR at increased risk of mortality. We identified 284 patients with echocardiograms demonstrating severe functional TR, defined as vena contracta (VC)≥0.7cm. Demographics and mortality data were obtained from the medical records. Patients were divided into study (n=122 patients with three-dimensional images) and validation (n=162) cohorts. The VC was measured in both the right ventricular (RV) inflow and apical four-chamber views and averaged. For the study cohort, tricuspid annular, RV end-diastolic (basal, mid, long axis) dimensions, tricuspid leaflet tenting height and area, RV free-wall longitudinal strain, and RV volumes were measured from two- and three-dimensional data sets. A K-partition algorithm was used in the study cohort to derive a mortality-related cutoff VC value, above which TR was termed "massive." The ability of this VC cutoff to identify patients at greater mortality risk was then tested in the validation cohort using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. In the study cohort, VC>0.92cm (massive TR) was optimally associated with worse survival. Tricuspid annular and RV size were larger in the massive group (P<.05), while there were no significant differences in demographics between the TR groups. Importantly, in the independent validation cohort, the above VC cutoff also correlated with increased mortality in the massive group (log-rank P<.05). Among patients traditionally defined as having severe TR, a subset exists with massive TR, resulting in greater adverse RV remodeling and increased mortality. These patients may derive the greatest benefit from emerging percutaneous therapies.

A pilot in silico modeling-based study of the pathological effects on the biomechanical function of tricuspid valves.

Current clinical assessment of functional tricuspid valve regurgitation relies on metrics quantified from medical imaging modalities. Although these clinical methodologies are generally successful, the lack of detailed information about the mechanical environment of the valve presents inherent challenges for assessing tricuspid valve regurgitation. In the present study, we have developed a finite element-based in silico model of one porcine tricuspid valve (TV) geometry to investigate how various pathological conditions affect the overall biomechanical function of the TV. There were three primary observations from our results. Firstly, the results of the papillary muscle (PM) displacement study scenario indicated more pronounced changes in the TV biomechanical function. Secondly, compared to uniform annulus dilation, nonuniform dilation scenario induced more evident changes in the von Mises stresses (83.8-125.3 kPa vs 65.1-84.0 kPa) and the Green-Lagrange strains (0.52-0.58 vs 0.47-0.53) for the three TV leaflets. Finally, results from the pulmonary hypertension study scenario showed opposite trends compared to the PM displacement and annulus dilation scenarios. Furthermore, various chordae rupture scenarios were simulated, and the results showed that the chordae tendineae attached to the TV anterior and septal leaflets may be more critical to proper TV function. This in silico modeling-based study has provided a deeper insight into the tricuspid valve pathologies that may be useful, with moderate extensions, for guiding clinical decisions. NOVELTY STATEMENT: The novelties of the research are summarized below: A comprehensive in silico pilot study of how isolated functional tricuspid regurgitation pathologies and ruptured chordae tendineae would alter the tricuspid valve function; An extensive analysis of the tricuspid valve function, including mechanical quantities (eg, the von Mises stress and the Green-Lagrange strain) and clinically-relevant geometry metrics (eg, the tenting area and the coaptation height); and A developed computational modeling pipeline that can be extended to evaluate patient-specific tricuspid valve geometries and enhance the current clinical diagnosis and treatment of tricuspid regurgitation.

Tricuspid regurgitation severity after atrial septal defect closure or pulmonic valve replacement

ObjectivesCardiac surgery or catheter interventions are nowadays commonly performed to reduce volume loading of the right ventricle in adults with congenital heart disease. However, little is known, on the effect...

P912 Echocardiographic analysis of acute effects after treatment of functional mitral regurgitation by percutaneous mitral annuloplasty

Abstract Background Secondary or functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, especially in heart failure patients, patients with many comorbidities and/or in the elderly. Previous studies about percutaneous mitral annuloplasty have shown evidence for long-term reduction of degree of FMR severity and left ventricular (LV) remodeling. In comparison to previous studies the present study did focus on the echocardiographic analysis of acute effects after percutaneous mitral annuloplasty (PMA). Methods Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) has been performed in 30 patients with moderate or severe FMR before and after (± 3.5 days) percutaneous mitral annuloplasty (Carillon®). LV volumes and LV ejection fraction and semi-quantitative parameters, e.g. tenting Area, vena contracta and velocity-time-integral ratios of transmitral inflow and LV outflow (VTIMV/VTILVOT) were assessed. The assessment of the regurgitant volume (RV), regurgitant fraction (RF) and effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) was quantitatively performed by the PISA method. RV and RF was also estimated by subtracting the effective forward stroke volume (SVLVOT, SVRVOT) from the total stroke volume (SVLV planimetry). Further, parameters of left ventricular contractility, e.g. global longitudinal strain (GLS), cardiac efficiency, peak power index etc., were assessed. Results a postinterventional reduction of degree of FMR severity was achieved in 25/30 patients (83%). In average, RF was reduced from 49 ± 11% to 34 ± 13% (p &amp;lt; 0.001), RV from 33 ± 13ml to 25 ± 12ml (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and EROA from 0.24 ± 0.1cm2 to 0.19 ± 0.1cm2 (p &amp;lt; 0.05). Significant decreases were also noted for vena contracta and VTIMV/LVOT. DiamMV (long axis) was reduced from 3.6 ± 0.6cm to 3.4± 0.6cm (p &amp;lt; 0.001), DiamMV (4-chamber view) from 3.9 ± 0.5cm to 3.6 ± 0.6cm (p &amp;lt; 0 .05). In patients with sinus rhythm (SR) or pacemacer stimulation a considerably higher reduction of RF was observed (ΔRF 20 ± 12%) in comparison to patients with atrial fibrillation (ΔRF 10 ± 12%). No significant changes were obtained for parameters of LV remodeling and LV contractility, e.g. GLS, cardiac efficiency, peak power index. Conclusion A reduction of degree of FMR severity can be achieved by percutaneous mitral annuloplasty (PMA) and acute effects can be quantitatively assessed by echocardiography. Further data are necessary to evaluate whether these acute effects will maintain in follow-up investigations. Abstract P912 Figure. Fig1-Reduction of RF and VC after PMA

P1796 Three dimensional echocardiograhy navigation of mitral valve in patients with left ventricular dysfunction and functional mitral regurgiation

Abstract OnBehalf cairo university Background Mitral valve MV apparatus is a dynamic three-dimensional system that allows a unidirectional heart pump function. Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is a common complication that adversely affects the prognosis in patients with congestive heart failure. Accurate assessment of the interaction of the LV and MV apparatus is crucial for surgical correction of FMR. Purpose Evaluation of MV deformity indices in patients with Left ventricle (LV) dysfunction and varying severity FMR using 3D transoesophageal echocardiography and MV navigation (MVN) software Methods 96 patients were selected with echocardiographic evidence of dilated LV dimensions, EF ≤ 45%,and at least mild MR . A standard comprehensive transthoracic echocardiographic assessment of : 1. LV diameters and volumes with calculation of LVEF , LV shape, sphericity index, 2. Mitral leaflets morphology including anterior mitral leaflet length ,Mitral annular (MA) diameter , mid-systolic mitral annular area (MAA) , The coaptation height (CH) or distance , MV tenting area, leaflet-tethering distance for anterolateral papillary muscle (Tethering-AL) and posteromedial papillary muscle (Tethering-PM), 3.Quantification of MR : MR jet area , vena contracta (VC) width, effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA), , regurgitant volume, 4. 2D speckle-tracking imaging for LV strain analysis,5.MV morphology and dynamics were analysed using MVN for assessment of : Annular geometry including diameters, circumference ,height , annular ellipticity . Results MV deformation (AML and PML tethering distance) was negatively correlated with GLS (r= -0.408, p = 0.009),and (r= -0.428, p = 0.006) as well as 2D and 3D MAA were negatively correlated with the GLS (r= -0.469, p = 0.002) and (r= -0.477, p = 0.002). MR severity parameters as MR volume and EROA were associated with increased MAA (r = 0.38, p = 0.015), (r = 0.469, p = 0.002) respectively. Severity of MR was strongly correlated with MVA indices including AP diameter, 3D MA circumference, MAA, MV tenting height and volume and annular ellipsicity. Conclusion Mitral annular enlargement appears to be more closely linked to occurrence of FMR in patients with LV dysfunction. 3D imaging modalities will help assessment of complicated, dynamic, three-dimensional and non-planar mitral annulus

Prognostic value of mitral valve tenting area in patients with functional mitral regurgitation

Mitral valve (MV) repair in functional mitral regurgitation is still associated with suboptimal outcomes. Our goal was to determine whether the clinical outcome following MV repair correlates with preoperative tenting parameters. We retrospectively identified consecutive patients with functional mitral regurgitation who underwent an isolated MV annuloplasty during a 7-year period (2010-2016) from our institutional database. Preoperative tenting parameters (i.e. tenting height, coaptation length, tenting area, posterior mitral leaflet and anterior mitral leaflet angles and interpapillary muscle distance) were systematically measured. The primary end point was the composite of survival and freedom from adverse cardiac events. The follow-up protocol consisted of a structured clinical questionnaire and an analysis of the echocardiographic data. A total of 240 patients (mean age 67.8 ± 9.8 years, 57% of men) were analysed. The overall 5-year survival rate for the whole study cohort was 74.7 ± 4.2%, and freedom from adverse cardiac events was 84.8 ± 3.4%. A tenting area ≥2.4 cm2 was identified as a cut-off value, independently predicting the composite primary study end point (hazard ratio 2.0; P = 0.03). Furthermore, a Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a strong tendency towards worse 5-year outcomes in patients with a tenting area ≥2.4 cm2 (n = 153) versus patients with a tenting area <2.4 cm2 (n = 87) (65.3 ± 5.5% vs 77.1 ± 6.3%; P = 0.06). MV annuloplasty is associated with acceptable clinical and echocardiographic outcomes in patients with functional mitral regurgitation 5 years postoperatively. A preoperative tenting area ≥2.4 cm2 showed a strong trend towards a worse 5-year survival rate and an increased risk of adverse cardiac events after an isolated MV annuloplasty.

Transcatheter MitraClip repair alters mitral annular geometry \u2013 device induced annular remodeling on three-dimensional echocardiography predicts therapeutic response

BackgroundEchocardiography (echo) is widely used to guide therapeutic decision-making for patients being considered for MitraClip. Relative utility of two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) echo predictors of MitraClip response, and impact of MitraClip on mitral annular geometry, are uncertain.MethodsThe study population comprised patients with advanced (> moderate) MR undergoing MitraClip. Mitral annular geometry was quantified on pre-procedural 2D transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and intra-procedural 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE); 3D TEE was used to measure MitraClip induced changes in annular geometry. Optimal MitraClip response was defined as ≤mild MR on follow-up (mean 2.7 ± 2.5 months) post-procedure TTE.ResultsEighty patients with advanced MR underwent MitraClip; 41% had optimal response (≤mild MR). Responders had smaller pre-procedural global left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic size and mitral annular diameter on 2D TTE (both p ≤ 0.01), paralleling smaller annular area and circumference on 3D TEE (both p = 0.001). Mitral annular size yielded good diagnostic performance for optimal MitraClip response (AUC 0.72, p < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, sub-optimal MitraClip response was independently associated with larger pre-procedural mitral annular area on 3D TEE (OR 1.93 per cm2/m2 [CI 1.19–3.13], p = 0.007) and global LV end-diastolic volume on 2D TTE (OR 1.29 per 10 ml/m2 [CI 1.02–1.63], p = 0.03). Substitution of 2D TTE derived mitral annular diameter for 3D TEE data demonstrated a lesser association between pre-procedural annular size (OR 5.36 per cm/m2 [CI 0.95–30.19], p = 0.06) and sub-optimal MitraClip response. Matched pre- and post-procedural TEE analyses demonstrated MitraClip to acutely decrease mitral annular area and circumference (all p < 0.001) as well as mitral tenting height, area, and volume (all p < 0.05): Magnitude of MitraClip induced reductions in mitral annular circumference on intra-procedural 3D TEE was greater among patients with, compared to those without, sub-optimal MitraClip response (>mild MR) on followup TTE (p = 0.017); greater magnitude of device-induced annular reduction remained associated with sub-optimal MitraClip response even when normalized for pre-procedure annular circumference (p = 0.028).ConclusionsMitraClip alters mitral annular geometry as quantified by intra-procedural 3D TEE. Pre-procedural mitral annular dilation and magnitude of device-induced reduction in mitral annular size on 3D TEE are each associated with sub-optimal therapeutic response to MitraClip.

Functional tricuspid regurgitation in rheumatic mitral valve disease patients with and without tricuspid annuloplasty: a three-dimensional echocardiography study with one year follow up.

The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical and echocardiographic determinants of functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) before and after surgical intervention of rheumatic mitral valve disease, with focus on effectiveness of different methods of tricuspid valve annuloplasty (TAP). Three-dimensional echocardiographic images were obtained in 170 patients with mitral valve rheumatic disease before and 1year after mitral valve replacement, with and without concomitant TAP. Together with standard cardiac chamber quantification, multiplanar reconstruction images of the tricuspid valve (TV) apparatus were analyzed in the septal-lateral and antero-posterior directions, end-diastolic TV annular diameter, TV tenting height and tenting area were measured. By multivariate logistic regression, septal-lateral TV tenting area (p < 0.001) were independently correlated with preoperative FTR severity while postoperative septal-lateral TV annular diameter (p < 0.001) independently determined residual TR at 1-year follow-up. Both ring and suture TAP groups had postoperative reduction of S-L TV diameters, but isolated MVR group had an 11% increase in S-L TV diameters. Compared with TAP of size 26mm and 28mm rings group, suture TAP group had more common significant residual TR (29% vs. 3%, p = 0.001). Our study demonstrated that ring annuloplasty could provide effective reduction of the TV annulus and prevent postoperative TR progression, and for rheumatic mitral valve disease patients with mild functional TR, prophylactic TAP concomitant with MVR might be considered to address the postoperative TV annulus dilation.

P3804Left ventricular wall thickness measured with computed tomography predicts mitral regurgitation improvement in patients implanted with cardiac resynchronization therapy

Abstract Background Secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) is common in heart failure (HF) patients and results in progressive left ventricular (LV) dilatation, papillary muscle (PM) displacement and mitral valve leaflet tethering. In selected HF patients, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been proved to reduce MR by LV reverse remodeling, resynchronization of PM insertion site contraction and reduction in MV tenting area and inter PM distance. However, data regarding the impact of LV wall thickness (WT) on MR improvement are scarce. Methods In this prospective study, a total 54 patients scheduled for CRT, underwent pre procedural CT. Reduced LV WT was defined as WT&lt;6mm and was quantified as a percentage of total LV area. LV was segmented in 17 segments to assess the number of LV segments with reduced WT. End point was 6-month echocardiographic MR improvement by ≥1 class. For this analysis, we focused on patient with mild (class 2) to severe (class 4) MR. Results Among the 54 patients, 38 (70.4%) had mild to severe MR at baseline and a total of 16 (42.1%) experienced MR improvement by ≥1 class at 6 months. there was no difference regarding the co-morbidities, electrocardiogram and echocardiographic parameters between patients with or without MR improvement. However, patients without MR improvement had significant higher NT-pro BNP level at baseline. Interestingly, patients without MR improvement had larger LVWT &lt;6mm area (41.541.5±19.4 vs. 22.4±16.1%, p=0.003) associated with higher number of papillary muscle (PM) inserted in reduced LV WT area. In multivariate analysis, an area ≥25% of LVWT&lt;6mm including at least 1 PM insertion was the only predictor of no MR improvement at 6 months (HR 18.4 (1.25–271.75), p=0.034). Lastly, patients with MR improvement had significant lower rate of basal segments with reduced WT, especially in the lateral location. Of note, patients with MR improvement exhibited fewer rate of postero-lateral WT &lt;6mm segments. Left ventriculat segmentation Conclusion LV WT evaluated using CT is a strong predictor of no MR improvement in HF patients with mild to severe MR and who scheduled for CRT implantation.

Entire mitral reconstruction with porcine extracellular matrix in an acute porcine model

ObjectiveThe objective of our study was to investigate the feasibility of reconstructing the entire mitral valvular and subvalvular apparatus in pigs using a modified tube graft design made of 2-ply small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix. MethodsThe reconstructions were performed in an acute 80-kg porcine model with 8 pigs, each acting as its own control. A modified tube graft was designed from a sheet of 2-ply small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix. Before and after mitral valve reconstruction, echocardiography was used to assess mitral regurgitation, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction due to systolic anterior motion, mitral stenosis, leaflet mobility, and leaflet geometry. ResultsThe reconstructed mitral valves were fully functional without any observable echocardiographic signs of regurgitation. We did not observe any left ventricular outflow tract obstruction due to systolic anterior motion nor any mitral valve stenosis, despite a diminished septal-lateral distance after reconstruction. The reconstruction had a reduced tenting area, a reduced coaptation length (9.6 ± 1.7 mm vs 7.9 ± 1.0 mm, P = .010, diff = −1.7 mm, 95% confidence interval, −3.1 to −0.4 mm), and atrial bending of both leaflets. ConclusionsIn this acute porcine study, entire mitral valvular and subvalvular apparatus reconstruction using a modified tube graft design made from 2-ply small intestinal submucosal extracellular matrix was feasible. The 2-ply small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix could withstand the pressure exerted by the left ventricle without any signs of tearing or rupture. These promising results warrant further assessment of both the annular geometry and the long-term durability.

The effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy on left ventricular and mitral valve geometry and secondary mitral regurgitation in patients with left bundle branch block.

Secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) is common in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB) undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We aimed to define CRT effects on left ventricular (LV) and mitral valve (MV) geometry, and their correlation with MR severity. Forty-one patients with LBBB and ≥mild secondary MR underwent CRT between 2009 and 2012, and had baseline and follow-up echocardiograms available. Repeated measure and linear regression analyses were performed to assess for changes in MV and LV geometry and MR severity, and associations with follow-up MR grade. The mean age and baseline QRS duration were 65.5±14.9years and 160±24ms. At a mean follow-up of 2.6±1.8years, there was an increase in LV ejection fraction and reductions in LV end-systolic volume index, MR grade, and end-systolic interpapillary muscle distance (P<.05 for all). Linear correlations were observed between follow-up MR grade and baseline MV tenting height (r=.44), left atrial volume index (r=.41), LV end-systolic volume index (r=.4), MV tenting area (r=.38), LV ejection fraction (r=-.34), and end-systolic interpapillary muscle distance (r=.34) (P<.05 for all). Multiple regression analysis revealed associations between follow-up MR grade and baseline MV tenting height (β/mm=0.42, P=.006) and left atrial volume index (β/mL/m2 =0.4, P=.008), independent of QRS duration (β/ms=-0.07; P=0.6) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (β=-0.34, P=.02). Cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with LBBB and secondary MR results in LV and MV geometric reverse remodeling and decreases MR severity. Extent of baseline MV tethering is independently associated with persistent MR at follow-up.

1-Year Outcomes After Edge-to-Edge Valve Repair for Symptomatic Tricuspid Regurgitation: Results From the TriValve Registry

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to evaluate procedural and 1-year clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of patients treated with tricuspid edge-to-edge repair. BackgroundTranscatheter edge-to-edge repair has been successfully performed in selected patients with symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and high risk for surgery, but outcome data are sparse. MethodsThis analysis of the multicenter international TriValve (Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Therapies) registry included 249 patients with severe TR treated with edge-to-edge repair in compassionate and/or off-label use. Clinical and echocardiographic outcomes were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. ResultsIn 249 patients (mean age 77 ± 9 years; European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score 6.4% [interquartile range: 3.9% to 13.9%]), a successful procedure with TR reduction to grade ≤2+ was achieved in 77% by placement of 2 ± 1 tricuspid clips. Concomitant treatment of severe TR and mitral regurgitation was performed in 52% of patients. At 1-year follow-up, significant and durable improvements in TR severity (TR ≤2+ in 72% of patients) and New York Heart Association functional class (≤II in 69% of patients) were observed. All-cause mortality was 20%, and the combined rate of mortality and unplanned hospitalization for heart failure was 35%. Predictors of procedural failure included effective regurgitant orifice area, tricuspid coaptation gap, tricuspid tenting area, and absence of central or anteroseptal TR jet location. Predictors of 1-year mortality were procedural failure, worsening kidney function, and absence of sinus rhythm. ConclusionsTranscatheter tricuspid edge-to-edge repair can achieve TR reduction at 1 year, resulting in significant clinical improvement. Predictors of procedural failure and 1-year mortality identified here may help select patients who will benefit most from this therapy.

Significant mitral regurgitation in patients undergoing TAVR: Mechanisms and imaging variables associated with improvement.

Significant mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with poorer outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Factors associated with MR improvement have not been studied thoroughly. Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients treated with TAVR with more than mild MR at baseline. MR evolution was assessed at 1-3 and 6-12months after intervention. MR severity and mechanisms were assessed by echocardiography. Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) was quantified using preoperative cardiac CT. From 674 consecutive TAVR recipients, 78 with more than mild MR had a 6-12months follow-up. Following TAVR, MR improved in 34 patients (43%), remained stable in 38 (49%) and worsened in 6 (8%). Patients with MR improvement had greater tenting area (141±56 vs. 99±40mm2 , P<0.01), tenting height (7.2±1.9 vs. 5.6±1.9mm, P<0.01) and lower ejection fraction (43±16 vs. 52±14%, P=0.01). MAC was frequent (87.7% of patients) and a trend in greater MAC was observed in patients without MR improvement (3560±5587 vs. 2053±2800, P=0.16). In multivariable analysis, tenting area (OR per 10mm2 increase: 1.012, 95% CI, 1.001-1.024 P=0.039) and annulus calcifications associated with leaflet restriction (OR=0.108, 95% CI, 0.012-0.956, P=0.045) were independently associated with MR outcome after TAVR. Larger mitral valve tenting area was associated with more improvement of MR after TAVR whereas extensive MAC associated with leaflet restriction was associated with less improvement. This may help in the clinical decision-making process of TAVR candidates with concomitant MR.

Risk of Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation Recurrence After Combined Valvular and Subvalvular Repair

Mitral valve repair (MVr) combined with papillary muscle approximation (PMA) may improve repair durability in severe ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR), when compared with MVr alone. We sought to identify preoperative transthoracic echocardiographic markers associated with MR recurrence after MVr with PMA. A post-hoc analysis was performed on patients with severe ischemic MR who underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery with MVr with PMA in the papillary muscle approximation randomized trial. The PMA was performed utilizing a 4-mm polytetrafluoroethylene graft placed around the papillary muscles. Linear regression analyses and receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to identify echocardiographic variables and diagnostic models associated with recurrent MR. There were 48 patients with a mean age of 63 ± 7 years, a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35% ± 5%, and a left ventricular end-diastolic diameter of 63 ± 3 mm. Of these, 37 patients had baseline and 5-year follow-up echocardiograms, with moderate-to-severe MR recurring in 27%. Linear regression analyses revealed associations between preoperative pulmonary artery systolic pressure (standardized beta coefficient, β= 0.49/mm Hg, p=0.002), MV tenting area (β= 0.47/cm2, p= 0.004), a symmetric MV tethering pattern (β= 0.44, p= 0.007), and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (β= 0.37/mm, p=0.02) with follow-up MR grade. The presence of both MV tenting area 3.1 cm2 or greater (area under the curve 0.822) and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter of 64 mm or greater (area under the curve 0.801) was the most robust discriminative model for moderate-to-severe MR recurrence (specificity 92%, sensitivity 69%, area under the curve 0.804, p= 0.003). In patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery with MVr plus PMA, the extent of baseline MV apparatus and left ventricle geometric remodeling identifies patients at increased risk for MR recurrence.

Mid-term results of papillary muscles approximation: a retrospective single-center study

Background. Enlargement of the left ventricular chamber and displacement of papillary muscles in the apical and lateral directions increase the tethering forces. Left ventricular and papillary muscle desynchrony and reduced myocardial contractility reduce the closing forces, thus leading to impaired leaflet coaptation and appearance of mitral regurgitation. Therefore, treatment of mitral insufficiency requires an integrated approach, affecting all aspects of the pathogenesis of mitral regurgitation recurrence. Recent publications show that adjunctive subvalvular repair during mitral annuloplasty for secondary mitral regurgitation is effective in preventing recurrent regurgitation. One of these procedures is papillary muscle approximation. However, the safety and the positive impact of this method are still open to question. Aim. This study focused on the assessment of mid-term results of papillary muscles approximation and comparison of the obtained results with those of isolated mitral annuloplasty.Methods. Two hundred and twelve patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and ischemic mitral regurgitation were enrolled in this retrospective single-center study. The patients were randomised to 2 groups by using propensity score matching (a “neighbor” method) according to the following parameters: end diastolic volume, end systolic volume, stroke volume and ejection fraction. The first group included 112 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and mitral regurgitation, who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, mitral annuloplasty and papillary muscle approximation. The second group included 112 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and mitral valve annuloplasty. We evaluated early and mid-term results.Results. Two patients in group 1 and three patients in group 2 died of heart failure progression during 31.3±10.4 month follow-up. According to the Kaplan-Meier analysis, no statistically significant differences were noted between the groups (log-rank test = 0.8). Approximation of papillary muscles in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation improved mitral valve leaflet coaptation as evidenced by the values of coaptation depth, coaptation line and tenting area (p&gt;0.05). During follow-up, 3 cases (2.7%) of mitral insufficiency recurrence were recorded in group 1 and 16 (14.3%) in group 2. The Kaplan-Meier analysis of cumulative probability showed a significant difference in freedom from recurrence of mitral regurgitation ≥2 between groups in the mid-term postoperative period (log-rank test = 0.041).Conclusion. Adjunctive papillary muscle approximation performed at the time of mitral annuloplasty improves the durability of mitral valve repair. Received 18 April 2018. Revised 12 October 2018. Accepted 18 October 2018. Funding: The study did not have sponsorship. Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.

RF38 LATE PREDICTORS OF MITRAL REGURGITATION RECURRENCE AFTER SURGERY FOR FUNCTIONAL MITRAL REGURGITATION IN ISCHEMIC HEART FAILURE: FIX THE LEFT VENTRICLE TO IMPROVE MITRAL REPAIR DURABILITY.

Background and aim: to analyse predictors of functional mitral regurgitation recurrence (MRR) after Surgical Ventricular Reconstruction (SVR) and mitral annuloplasty in ischemic heart failure (EF &lt; 35%). Methods: Between January 2001 and March 2016, a consecutive series of 172 patients (mean age 64 ± 8 years) was operated of SVR and mitral annuloplasty for anterior [AR = 128 (74%)] or posterior [PR = 44 (26%)] post-ischemic remodeling and functional MR. Echocardiographic follow-up (mean: 51 months) was available in 131 patients. MR grade &gt;2 was defined as MR recurrence (MRR). Independent predictors of MRR were calculated with univariate (Kaplan-Meier) and multivariate (Cox regression) analysis. Results: MRR occurred in 27 patients (18%), and was significantly associated with higher 5-years mortality (52% vs 18%, p &lt; .001) and HF readmission rate (55% vs 22%, p &lt; .001). MRR was significantly lower in posterior compared to anterior remodelling (9%vs 18%, p = .03). Left ventricle volumes (ΔESV = -29%; ΔEDV = -22%) were significantly reduced both in patient without or with MRR, but the latter exhibited a significant post SVR sphericalization (ΔSpher Index: +37%vs +7%; p = .01), which significantly correlates with increased mitral tenting area (R2 = 0.36; 3.5 cmq vs 2.6 cmq; p = .002). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed anterior remodeling (p = .01) and Sphericity Index (p = .01) as independent predictors of MRR. ROC analysis identified a cut-off value of 0.66 (sensibility = 78%; specificity = 67%) for SpherI (3-years freedom from MRR: 54% vs 18%,p = .001). Conclusions: In functional MR and ischemic HF, SVR improves long-term durability of mitral annuloplasty, especially in posterior remodelling. LV sphericalization and anterior remodeling correlate to higher probability of MRR at follow-up so, in this settings, valve replacement rather than repair should be considered.

Mitral valve posterior leaflet reconstruction using extracellular matrix: an acute porcine study.

To investigate mitral valve posterior leaflet and subvalvular reconstruction using a 2-ply small intestinal submucosal extracellular matrix sheet. Mitral valve posterior leaflet and subvalvular reconstruction was characterized in an acute 80-kg porcine model with 7 pigs acting as their own controls. The characterization was based on pressure catheter measurements of pressure differences to identify mitral regurgitation, stenosis and systolic anterior motion. Furthermore, echocardiography was used for the evaluation of leaflet mobility and geometry, whereas sonomicrometry was used to describe annular and subvalvular geometry. The reconstructed mitral valve was fully functional without any signs of regurgitation (peak left atrial pressure for baseline and reconstruction 12 ± 2 mmHg vs 11 ± 2 mmHg, P = 0.550), mitral valve stenosis (mean pressure difference across the mitral valve 4.8 ± 2.3 mmHg vs 4.1 ± 2.3 mmHg, P = 0.589) or systolic anterior motion. The echocardiographic characterization revealed septal-lateral downsizing, reduced tenting area, increased coaptation length (6.0 ± 0.6 mm vs 8.7 ± 2.3 mm, P = 0.002) and an atrial bend of the reconstructed posterior leaflet. A ballooning effect of the patch material was present at the posterior annular segment. Mitral valve posterior leaflet and subvalvular reconstruction using a 2-ply small intestinal submucosal extracellular matrix sheet as patch material was possible in an acute porcine model. The reconstructed mitral valve was fully functional without signs of mitral valve stenosis, valve regurgitation, stenosis or systolic anterior motion. The ballooning appearance of the patch material might, however, constitute an altered leaflet stress distribution in this area.

Clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with mitral plasticity in patients with chronic inferior myocardial infarction.

Ischaemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) is consequence of left ventricular (LV) remodelling after myocardial infarction. In some cases, the mitral valve enlarges to compensate for LV remodelling and tenting, improving its coaptation; a process termed 'plasticity'. We sought to identify clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with plasticity in patients with chronic inferior myocardial infarction (CII). This study included 91 revascularized CII patients and 46 controls. Plasticity and IMR severity were evaluated by 2D transthoracic echocardiography. Compared with controls, CII patients were older (59 vs. 25 years) and mostly men (80% vs. 46%), both P < 0.001. Chronic inferior myocardial infarction patients also had significant LV remodelling: larger LV volumes, larger mitral tenting areas, larger coaptation depths, longer mitral leaflets and chords, and worse mitral regurgitation (all P ≤ 0.03). Of 91 CII patients, 60 had mitral plasticity (longer anterior and posterior leaflets and longer posterior chords, all P < 0.001), despite not exhibiting significantly larger LV volumes, tenting area or coaptation depth, when compared with patients with no plasticity. Contralateral (anterior) papillary muscle-to-annulus length tended to be increased in CII plasticity patients (P = 0.05). Also they had less moderate and severe IMR (both P < 0.04) compared with non-plasticity CII patients. Multivariate analysis demonstrated independent associations between plasticity and smoking [odds ratio (OR) 0.03, 0.002-0.57; P = 0.019], duration of type-2 diabetes (OR 1.19, 1.007-1.42; P = 0.04) and haemoglobin (OR 2.17, 1.25-3.76; P = 0.005). Mitral plasticity results in less moderate and severe IMR. Longer time-duration of diabetes mellitus and higher haemoglobin level are independently associated with mitral plasticity, while smoking independently associates with no plasticity. Increased anterior papillary muscle-to-annulus length in CII patients with plasticity suggests complex LV remodelling mechanisms are involved in plasticity.

Effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy on mitral valve geometry: a novel aspect as "reversed mitral remodeling".

Amelioration of the valvular geometry is a possible mechanism for mitral regurgitation (MR) improvement in patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We aimed to establish the precise definition, incidence, and predictors of reversed mitral remodeling (RMR), as well as the association with MR improvement and short-term CRT outcome. Ninety-five CRT recipients were retrospectively evaluated for the end-point of "MR response" defined as the absolute reduction in regurgitant volume (RegV) at 6 months. To identify RMR, changes in mitral deformation indices were tested for correlation with MR response and further analyzed for functional and echocardiographic CRT outcomes. Overall, MR response was observed in 50 patients (53%). Among the echocardiographic indices, the change in tenting area (TA) had the highest correlation with the change in RegV (r = 0.653, p < 0.001). The mean TA significantly decreased in MR responders (4.15 ± 1.05 to 3.67 ± 1.01 cm2 at 6 months, p < 0.001) and increased in non-responders (3.68 ± 1.04 to 3.98 ± 0.97 cm2, p = 0.014). The absolute TA reduction was used to identify patients with RMR (47%) which was found to be associated with higher rates of functional improvement (p = 0.03) and volumetric CRT response (p = 0.036) compared to those without RMR. Non-ischemic etiology and the presence of LBBB independently predicted RMR at multivariate analysis. In conclusion, reduction in TA is a reliable index of RMR, which relates to MR response, and functional and echocardiographic improvement with CRT. LBBB and non-ischemic etiology are independent predictors of RMR.