Total Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time Research Articles

Single-Center Prospective Study of Cross-Clamp vs Balloon Occlusion in Robotic Mitral Surgery

BackgroundTransthoracic aortic cross-clamp and endoaortic balloon occlusion have both been shown to have comparable safety profiles for aortic occlusion. Because most surgeons use only one technique, we sought to compare the outcomes when a homogeneous group of surgeons changed their occlusion technique from aortic cross-clamp to balloon occlusion. MethodsWe changed our technique from aortic cross-clamp to balloon occlusion in November 2022. This allowed us to conduct a prospective treatment comparison study in the same group of surgeons. Propensity score matching was used to match cases (balloon occlusion) 1:3 to controls (aortic cross-clamp) based on age, sex, body mass index, concomitant maze procedure, and tricuspid valve repair. ResultsTotal of 411 patients underwent robotic mitral surgery from 2020 through 2023. Propensity score matching was used to match 56 balloon occlusion patients to 168 aortic cross-clamp patients. The 224 patients were a median age of 65 years (interquartile range, 55.6-70.0 years), and 119 (53%) were men. All valves were successfully repaired. Balloon occlusion had a shorter median cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time compared with aortic cross-clamp (84.0 vs 94.5 minutes, P = .006). Median cross-clamp time (64.0 vs 64.0 minutes, P = .483) and total surgery time (5.9 vs 6.1 hours, P = .495) did not differ between groups. There were no in-hospital deaths. There were 5 surgeons who performed various combinations of console and bedside roles. CPB, cross-clamp, and surgery durations were not significantly affected by the different surgeon combinations. ConclusionsCompared with aortic cross-clamp, balloon occlusion has similar perioperative and early postoperative outcomes. Additionally, it likely introduces a 10-minute reduction in total CPB time.

Incidence of postoperative seizures in neonates following cardiac surgery with regional cerebral perfusion and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

ObjectivesHistorically, our center has primarily used deep hypothermic circulatory arrest, but in recent years some surgeons have selectively used regional cerebral perfusion as an alternative. We aimed to compare the incidence of postoperative electroencephalographic seizure incidence in neonates undergoing surgery with regional cerebral perfusion and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed in neonates who underwent surgery between 2012 and 2022 with either deep hypothermic circulatory arrest or regional cerebral perfusion with routine postoperative continuous electroencephalography monitoring for 48 hours. Propensity matching was performed to compare postoperative seizure risk between the 2 groups. ResultsAmong 1136 neonates undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, regional cerebral perfusion was performed in 99 (8.7%) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in 604 (53%). The median duration of regional cerebral perfusion was 49 minutes (interquartile range, 38-68) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest was 41 minutes (interquartile range, 31-49). The regional cerebral perfusion group had significantly longer total support, cardiopulmonary bypass, and aortic crossclamp times. Overall seizure incidence was 11% (N = 76) and 13% (N = 35) in the most recent era (2019-2022). The unadjusted seizure incidence was similar in neonates undergoing regional cerebral perfusion (N = 12, 12%) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (N = 64, 11%). After propensity matching, the seizure incidence was similar in neonates undergoing regional cerebral perfusion (N = 12, 12%) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (N = 37, 12%) (odds ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.55-1.71; P = .92). ConclusionsIn this contemporary single-center experience, the incorporation of regional cerebral perfusion did not result in a change in seizure incidence in comparison with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. However, unmeasured confounders may have impacted these findings. Further studies are needed to determine the impact, if any, of regional cerebral perfusion on postoperative seizure incidence.

Re-Dosing del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery: Perfusion characteristics and outcomes--Is there an optimal redosing strategy?

del Nido cardioplegia is utilized for myocardial protection in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery; however, no standardized re-dosing protocol exists. We describe perfusion characteristics and clinical outcomes in adult cardiac surgery patients who were re-dosed with del Nido cardioplegia. Chart review was performed for adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery (specific inclusion/exclusion criteria below) who received exactly two doses of del Nido cardioplegia from 2012 to 2019; n = 542 patients. The main outcome was a composite endpoint comprised of operative mortality, myocardial infarction, post-operative cardiac support device (CSD), and postoperative decrease in ejection fraction (EF), which was analyzed via multivariable logistic regression (MVLR). A secondary analysis evaluated postoperative vasoactive-inotropic scores (VIS) via gamma log link regression (GLLR) as a more physiologic indication of myocardial recovery. MVLR demonstrated that increased total cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was associated with a positive composite outcome (p < .001), whereas time between doses (p = .237) and the volume of each dose was not (p = .626). GLLR also demonstrated that prolonged CBP, decreased EF, congestive heart failure at time of surgery, and low hematocrit at the start of the surgery were all associated with higher VIS. In this retrospective study, variations in re-dosing strategy for del Nido cardioplegia do not affect postoperative outcomes and increased CPB time is associated with increased operative mortality, myocardial infarction, need for post-operative CSDs, and reduced postoperative EF, and increased VIS, irrespective of the re-dosing strategy. Further studies are warranted to to identify additional patient and operative characteristics that predispose to complications.

Donation after circulatory death heart transplantation using normothermic regional perfusion:The NYU Protocol.

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of cardiopulmonary bypass for thoraco-abdominal normothermic regional perfusion on the metabolic milieu of donation after cardiac death organ donors before transplantation. Local donation after cardiac death donor offers are assessed for suitability and willingness to participate. Withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy is performed in the operating room. After declaration of circulatory death and a 5-minute observation period, the cardiac team performs a median sternotomy, ligation of the aortic arch vessels, and initiation of thoraco-abdominal normothermic regional perfusion via central cardiopulmonary bypass at 37 °C. Three sodium chloride zero balance ultrafiltration bags containing 50 mEq sodium bicarbonate and 0.5g calcium carbonate are infused. Arterial blood gas measurements are obtained every 15 minutes after every zero balance ultrafiltration bag is infused, and blood is transfused as needed to maintain hemoglobin greater than 8 mg/dL. Cardiopulmonary bypass is weaned with concurrent hemodynamic and transesophageal echocardiogram evaluation of the donor heart. The remainder of the procurement, including the abdominal organs, proceeds in a similar controlled fashion as is performed for a standard donation after brain death donor. Between January 2020 and May 2022, 18 donation after cardiac death transplants using the thoraco-abdominal normothermic regional perfusion protocol were performed at our institution. The median donor age was 42.5 years (range, 20-51 years), and 88.9% (16/18) were male. The mean total donor cardiopulmonary bypass time was 88.8 ± 51.8 minutes. At the beginning of cardiopulmonary bypass, the average donor lactate was 9.4 ± 1.5 mmol/L compared with an average final lactate of 5.3 ± 2.7 mmol/L (P<.0001). The average beginning potassium was 6.5 ± 1.8 mmol/L compared with an average end potassium of 4.2 ± 0.4 mmol/L (P<.0001) . The average beginning hemoglobin was 6.8 ± 0.7 g/dL, and the average end hemoglobin was 8.2 ± 1.3 g/dL (P<.001) . On average, donation after cardiac death donors received transfusions of 2.3 ± 1.5 units of packed red blood cells. Of the 18 donors who underwent normothermic regional perfusion, all hearts were deemed suitable for recovery and successfully transplanted, a yield of 100%. Other organs successfully recovered and transplanted include kidneys (80.6% yield), livers (66.7% yield), and bilateral lungs (27.8% yield). The use of cardiopulmonary bypass for thoraco-abdominal normothermic regional perfusion is a burgeoning option for improving the quality of organs from donation after cardiac death donors. Meticulous intraoperative management of donation after cardiac death donors with a specific focus on improving their metabolic milieu may lead to improved graft function in transplant recipients.

Do obese patients with type A aortic dissection benefit from total arch repair through a partial upper sternotomy?

Minimal research has been performed regarding total arch replacement through partial upper sternotomy in patients with acute type A aortic dissection who are obese, and the safety and feasibility of this procedure need to be further investigated. The present study investigated the potential clinical advantages of using a partial upper sternotomy versus a conventional full sternotomy for total arch replacement in patients who were obese. This was a retrospective study. From January 2017 to January 2020, a total of 65 acute type A aortic dissection patients who were obese underwent total arch replacement with triple-branched stent graft. Among them, 35 patients underwent traditional full sternotomy, and 30 patients underwent partial upper sternotomy. The perioperative clinical data and postoperative follow-up results of the two groups were collected, and the feasibility and clinical effect of partial upper sternotomy in total arch replacement were summarized. The in-hospital mortality rates of the two groups were similar. The total operative time, cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic cross-clamp, cerebral perfusion, and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest times were also similar in both groups. The thoracic drainage and postoperative red blood cell transfusion volumes in the partial upper sternotomy group were significantly lower than those in the full sternotomy group. Mechanical ventilation time was shorter in the partial upper sternotomy group than that in the full sternotomy group. Additionally, the incidences of pulmonary infection, hypoxemia, and sternal diaphoresis were lower in the partial upper sternotomy group than those in the full sternotomy group. This study showed that total arch replacement surgery through a partial upper sternotomy in patients with acute type A aortic dissection who are obese is safe, effective, and superior to full sternotomy in terms of blood loss, postoperative blood transfusion, and respiratory complications.

Surgical Outcomes of Three Repair Techniques for Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection in Adult Patients

Objectives: To investigate primary and secondary surgical outcomes following transcaval repair (TCR), modified Warden repair, and transatrial repair techniques for partial anomalous pulmonary venous connections (PAPVCs) and sinus venosus atrial septal defects (ASDs). Methods: This is an observational cohort clinical study. Patients who underwent TCR, modified Warden repair, and transatrial surgical repair for PAPVC and ASD between January 2003 and October 2019 at our institution were included in the study. Patients had one of the surgical procedures based on the anatomy of the defect. Results: Ten patients, seven (70%) males and three (30%) females, were included in the analysis. Seven patients underwent TCR, two patients the modified Warden technique, and one patient underwent transatrial surgical repair. Mean age was 57 years ± 14.7. Mean EuroScore II was 3.4 ± 3.5. The baseline left ventricle ejection fraction was 45 ± 6.5%. No patient had previous stroke, pacemaker (PM) implantation, or myocardial infarction. Total cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping time were 123 ± 72.5 and 100 ± 48.5 min, respectively. Mean mechanical ventilation, mean intensive care unit, and mean hospital length of stay for the transcaval, modified Warden, and transatrial groups were 4.6 ± 10.7, 5.7 ± 8.8, and 10.5 ± 9.2 days, respectively. Superior caval or pulmonary venous obstruction, sinus node dysfunction, and PM implantation were not present at follow-up. The patient who underwent transatrial repair had died at 5.5-year follow-up due to myocardial infarction. Total survival rate at 6 years was 90%. Conclusions: The findings from this study elicit that all three techniques have low postoperative morbidity and are feasible and reliable procedures.

Mini-sternotomy versus full sternotomy for isolated aortic valve replacement: A single-center experience.

Minimally invasive approaches to isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) are well-described and widely utilized. While there are numerous proposed benefits, there is limited literature describing significant morbidity or mortality benefits for minimally invasive isolated AVR resulting in hesitancy in its universal adoption. In this retrospective study, we compare the 5-year outcomes of patients undergoing isolated AVR via full sternotomy (FS) or mini-sternotomy (MS). 756 patients underwent isolated AVR between 2014 and 2019. Propensity matching resulted in 142 matched pairs that received either FS or MS. The primary outcome was mortality during the follow-up period. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative variables and postoperative morbidity. Intraoperative variables including total operative, cardiopulmonary bypass, and aortic cross-clamp times did not differ significantly between groups. Postoperative mortality was similar between the matched groups with nonsignificant differences at 30 days (2.12% vs. 1.4%, p = .657), 1 year (4.9% vs. 2.1%, p = .0.223), and 5 years (7.5% vs. 3.5%, p = .174). Rates of postoperative morbidity were comparable between groups with no significant differences. This study examined the long-term outcomes of propensity-matched patients undergoing isolated AVR via FS or MS and identified no significant differences in outcomes over a 5-yearfollow-up period. The decision for surgical approach is multifactorial and should be decided on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration patient anatomy, surgeon experience, and comfort, as well as patient preference.

Abstract 9457: Primary Cardiac Allograft Dysfunction Caused by Pretransplantation Amiodarone Therapy

Background: Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) is devastating. Amiodarone therapy prior to cardiac transplantation (TxP) is common but has recently been reported as potential cause of PGD. Case: 66-year-old male with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, severely reduced LVEF with LVAD, recurrent VT on amiodarone for 6 months presented with ICD shocks. Amiodarone was increased due to VT storm in the setting of Rhinovirus infection. Infusions with amiodarone and lidocaine were started but repeat IV boli of lidocaine and amiodarone were needed. VT-ablation was not feasible due to multiple morphologies. He underwent TxP with an ideal organ from a 28 yo donor. Paragonix SherpaPak was used for transport. Pre-explanation EF was 70% with serologies positive for EBV (+/+), Strongyloides (+/-), negative for Toxoplasmosis (-/-), CMV (-/-). Donor heart was arrested with appropriate cardioplegia and no distention occurred. Total ischemic time was 3 hours 10 minutes, warm ischemic time 40 minutes, crossclamp time in recipient 2 hours 2 minutes with total cardiopulmonary bypass time 2 hours 58 minutes. Coming off bypass both ventricles appeared markedly dilated with severely reduced function and due to high doses of inotropic and vasopressor support veno-arterial ECMO was placed. The chest was left open and during postoperative course in the intensive care unit pressor and inotropes could slowly weaned. Induction therapy was administered with ATG, Solumedrol and mycophenolate mofetil. Strongyloides infection was treated with four doses of Ivermectin. On postoperative day LVEF recovered to 40-45% with moderately reduced RV function and patient was successfully decannulated from VA ECMO with chest closure. Endomyocardial biopsies showed no signs of rejection throughout. After prolonged ICU and rehab stay patient has now recovered to independent life. Conclusion: Amiodarone associated PGD may be underreported and increasing awareness of this etiology may warrant early empiric discontinuation of the medication if transplantation remains a therapeutic option in the future.

Four-corners traction combined with continuous everting suture technique as a modification in bicaval anastomosis for orthotopic heart transplantation

BackgroundAlthough standard bicaval techniques has become popular in orthotopic heart transplantation, distortion, bleeding, thrombosis and arrhythmia were still causes for concern. This study was designed to compare the standard bicaval techniques and modified bicaval techniques in our institution. Materials and methodsA total of 70 recipients underwent orthotopic heart transplantation at our center from June 2015 to April 2019 (standard group = 24 cases, modified group = 46 cases). The average follow-up period was 46.4 ± 17.4 months. Atrioventricular cavity diameter was measured by ultrasonography and left atrial morphology was evaluated by CT-angiography and three-dimensional reconstruction. ResultsRecipients in both groups were similar with pre-operative characteristics. Total ischemic, cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times were similar. The modified bicaval techniques group has a significantly fewer blood transfusion, lower post-transplant tricuspid regurgitation grade and the incidence of post-operative atrial arrhythmia than standard bicaval techniques group. CT-angiography and three-dimensional reconstruction illustrated ideal and physiologic left atrial morphological structure. Short-term survival differed significantly and the cumulative proportion of survival was significantly higher in the modified bicaval techniques group than that in the standard bicaval techniques group. ConclusionsThis study showed that modified bicaval techniques offers a better early outcome than standard bicaval techniques. The significant reduction of intraoperative blood transfusion and post-transplant tricuspid regurgitation grade in the modified bicaval techniques group may has a major impact on the short-term survival.

Outcomes of Full and Partial Cardiac Autotransplantation for Complex Left-Sided Heart Tumors

BackgroundComplex or malignant left-sided heart tumors present a challenge for resection and reconstruction. Cardiac autotransplantation was developed to address this but is a complex technique. Partial autotransplantation was developed to simplify the procedure. This study evaluates the outcomes of partial cardiac autotransplantation compared with those of full cardiac autotransplantation. MethodsWe analyzed our prospectively collected cardiac tumor database for cases between 1998 and 2022 requiring full or partial cardiac autotransplantation. The primary end points for the study were morbidities including bleeding, total blood transfusions, renal failure, prolonged ventilation (>48 hours), arrhythmias, total cardiopulmonary bypass time, total aortic clamp time, hospital length of stay, and intensive care unit length of stay. The secondary end point was operative 30-day mortality. ResultsWe identified 57 consecutive cases of partial or full cardiac autotransplantation. Full autotransplantation was performed in 47 of 57 (82.5%) patients, and partial autotransplantation was performed in 10 of 57 (17.5%) patients. For full vs partial techniques, mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 191.0 vs 147.5 minutes (P = .01), and median number of blood transfusions was 5.0 vs 2.0 units (P = .04). Mean aortic clamp time was 120.5 vs 103.0 minutes (P = .12), median length of hospital stay was 12.0 vs 8.5 days (P = .23), and intensive care unit stay was 5.0 vs 2.0 days (P = .14); renal failure (9/47 [19%] vs 0) did not differ (P = .34). There was no 30-day mortality in the partial group. ConclusionsPartial cardiac autotransplantation represents a simplification of the full autotransplantation technique and can be performed with a reasonable operative risk.

Comparison of Logistic Euroscore with Euroscore II in predicting postoperative mortality in adult cardiac surgical patients

Background: Logistic Euroscore and Euroscore II are widely used in predicting perioperative mortality after cardiac surgery; however the data regarding the superiority of one over the other in predicting outcome regarding 30 days mortality in isolated coronary artery surgeries are not consistent. This study assessed the predictive accuracy of logistic Euroscore versus Euroscore II in determining 30 days mortality after isolated CABG surgery in a single cardiac center of Nepal.&#x0D; Methods: One hundred and forty-two patients scheduled for isolated coronary artery bypass surgery during the one-year period was taken for this prospective observational study. The predictive post-operative mortality was calculated using both of the scoring system. The actual mortality observed during the 30 day of postoperative period was recorded and the findings were compared with the predictive post-operative mortality according to the scoring systems by using area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC).&#x0D; Results: One hundred and forty-two patients were enrolled in this study and average cross clamp time was 65.92 +/- 26.39 minutes and total cardiopulmonary bypass time was 102.90 +/- 37.32 minutes. The average hours of ventilator stay was 9.56 +/- 8.45 and total days of ICU stay was 4.96 +/- 2.00. The observed 30 day mortality was 2.11% (95% CI, 1.96-2.36%) which was slightly better predicted by ESL 2.40% (95% CI, 2.04-2.76%) in comparison to ES II 1.44% (95% CI, 1.22-1.66%). The AUC value was 0.917 (0.817-1.000) for ESL and 0.946 (0.887-1.000) for ES II in predicting 30 day postoperative mortality and were comparable.&#x0D; Conclusion: Both of the logistic Euroscore and Euroscore II are comparable to each other in predicting 30 day postoperative mortality after isolated CABG surgery.

Packing the donor heart: Is SherpaPak cold preservation technique safer compared to ice cold storage.

The present study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of heart transplant patients whose donor hearts were preserved with the SherpaPak controlled cold organ system versus the conventional ice storage technique. All patients undergoing heart transplantation at our center between January 2019 and April 2021 were divided into two groups according to the technique used during donor heart preservation and transport. The first group consisted of 34 SherpaPak controlled temperature preservation patients, and the second group consisted of 47 patients where the conventional three bags and ice technique was utilized during organ transportation. The two groups were compared based on demographics, operative details, and postoperative outcomes. There were no significant differences between the groups regarding Vasoactive Inotropic Score (VIS), Primary Graft Dysfunction (PGD), and the need for a transient pacer. However, the VIS, PGD, and pacing trends were lower in the SherpaPak patients even though the total ischemic and cardiopulmonary bypass times were significantly longer. Furthermore, SherpaPak patients exhibited a shorter stay in the ICU with no severe PGD and mortality. The SherpaPak donor heart preservation provides safe outcomes in heart transplant patients. Further research is needed to utilize this method for longer durations of ischemic time and expand travel distances for organ transportation.

Palliation Strategy to Achieve Complete Repair in Symptomatic Neonates with Tetralogy of Fallot.

Neonates with symptomatic tetralogy of Fallot (sTOF) may undergo palliations with varying physiology, namely systemic to pulmonary artery connections (SPC) or right ventricular outflow tract interventions (RVOTI). A comparison of palliative strategies based on the physiology created is lacking. Consecutive sTOF neonates undergoing SPC or RVOTI from 2005-2017 were reviewed from the Congenital Cardiac Research Collaborative. The primary outcome was survival with successful complete repair (CR) by 18months. A variety of secondary outcomes were assessed including overall survival, hospitalization-related comorbidities, and interstage reinterventions. Propensity score adjustment was utilized to compare treatment strategies. The cohort included 252 SPC (surgical shunt = 226, ductus arteriosus stent = 26) and 68 RVOTI (balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty = 48, RVOT stent = 11, RVOT patch = 9) patients. Genetic syndrome (29 [42.6%] v 75 [29.8%], p = 0.04), weight < 2.5kg (28 [41.2%] v 68 [27.0%], p = 0.023), bilateral pulmonary artery Z-score < -2 (19 [28.0%] v 36 [14.3%], p = 0.008), and pre-intervention antegrade flow (48 [70.6%] v 104 [41.3%], p < 0.001) were more common in RVOTI. Significant center differences were noted (p < 0.001). Adjusted survival to CR by 18months (HR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.63-1.21, p = 0.41) and overall survival (HR = 2.08, 95% CI = 0.93-4.65, p = 0.074) were similar. RVOTI had increased interstage reintervention (HR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.36-3.99, p = 0.001). Total anesthesia (243 [213, 277] v 328 [308, 351] minutes, p < 0.001) and cardiopulmonary bypass times (117 [103, 132] v 151 [143, 160] minutes, p < 0.001) favored RVOTI. In this multicenter comparison of physiologic palliation strategies for sTOF, survival to successful CR and overall survival were similar; however, reintervention burden was significantly higher in RVOTI.

Routine minimally invasive approach via left anterior mini-thoracotomy in multivessel coronary revascularization.

Minimally invasive heart surgery continues to spread rapidly around the world. Although coronary artery bypass surgery with median sternotomy continues to be performed intensively in many centers, the results of the new literature continue to contribute to proving the reliability of minimally invasive coronary surgery. In this study, we aimed to contribute to the routine feasibility of minimally invasive coronary bypass with left anterior mini-thoracotomy with our own case series. From July 2019 to August 2021 a total of 184 nonselected consecutive patients underwent minimally invasive on-pump multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting through the left anterior minithoracotomy in the fourth intercostal space. In the operation decision; regardless of low ejection fraction, morbid obesity, number of diseased vessels, or other comorbid factors, bypass operation was performed routinely via thoracotomy without selecting patients, except redo patients or porcelain aorta. The mean number of grafts was 3.3 ± 0.5. Left internal mammary artery was used in all patients. For other anastomoses; saphenous vein graft was used. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), aortic cross-clamping, and blood cardioplegia were used in all patients. Postoperative results of all patients were analyzed retrospectively. The total CPB time was 144.5 ± 27.3 min, and aortic cross-clamp time 82.1 ± 16.2 min. The mean intensive care stay was 1.2 ± 0.7 days and mean total hospital stay 5.1 ± 1.2 days. Total perioperative mortality was 0.54% (one patient). Myocardial infarction was not observed in any case in the postoperative period. The cause of mortality was delayed tamponade occurring on the fifth postoperative day. Nine patients underwent revision due to bleeding in the early postoperative period. There was no patient who underwent stroke or developed renal failure requiring hemodialysis in the postoperative period. One hundred and eighty-three patients (99.4%) were discharged with good recovery. Minimally invasive multivessel bypass surgery is a surgical method that has just started to become widespread. The fact that the technique is new and more challenging than conventional methods makes it difficult for surgeons to adopt it. In addition, one of the most important issues is that the surgical results should be satisfactory. Our study shows that safe, successful, and satisfactory results can be obtained by using this method, as in our case series. In addition, we think that it can be successfully applied routinely to all patients without distinction.

Enbloc Heart and Lung Transplantation – A Case Report

Enbloc heart and lung transplantation is the recommended ultimate option of surgery for candidates suffering from irreversible end stage heart and lung disease. This major surgery requires a cohesive multidisciplinary teamwork approach to yield a favourable outcome. The role of perfusionist is vital in this complex operation who is an active participant in the preoperative period intra-op and post-operative period. Our Enbloc heart and lung experience - case report highlights the key elements of this surgery from the perfusionist perspective. A 68 year old male patient was suffering from end stage heart and lung disease refractory to medical therapy due to worsened interstitial lung disease and coronary artery disease. His life style was restricted and required heart and lung transplantation at the earliest. He got a suitable donor and successfully underwent Enbloc heart and lung transplantation. The donor was a 24 year old male who was in comatose state due to traumatic brain injury. The donor specific antibody test was performed and the report was negative. Cold custodial and Perfadex Plus was administered to the donor heart and lungs and were harvested. The gold standard approach for Enbloc heart and lung transplantation is the median sternotomy. Standard bicaval and aortic cannulation was done and cardiopulmonary bypass was instituted. The total Cardio Pulmonary Bypass time was 250 minutes. Cold cycle was 144 minutes and warm cycle was 75 minutes. Continuous zero balanced ultrafiltration was done to eliminate the inflammatory mediators and to keep the serum lactate within the normal limits. The various perfusion strategies involved in Enbloc heart and lung transplantation and the involvement of perfusionists in the management of these patients is discussed in the article. Enbloc heart and lung transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage heart and lung disease. This type of surgery demands a holistic teamwork approach involving a multidisciplinary team and this helped in the speedy recovery of the patient in the case presented.

Ultrasonographic Measurement of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter in Patients Undergoing Open Heart Surgery: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Adverse neurologic outcomes following cardiac surgery can be catastrophic to the patient, next of kin, healthcare facility and community at large. Ultrasonographic measurement of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter (ONSD) has emerged as a promising modality to reflect Intracranial Pressure (ICP) and neurological status in various neurological settings. Aim: To explore ONSD as a tool to reflect ICP changes and predict neurologic outcomes in a cardiac surgical perioperative setting during Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB). Materials and Methods: This was an open-label, prospective and observational study conducted in Department of Anaesthesia, Command Hospital, Karnataka, India, from June 2016 to July 2018. All patients aged between 15 and 80 years who underwent open heart surgeries irrespective of gender, primary diagnosis and preoperative American society of Anaesthesiologist’s Physical Status (ASA PS) grade were enrolled in the study. Serial ultasonographic ONSD of both eyes in two planes (viz. sagittal and transverse) were acquired by a single observer at the following time intervals: baseline (prior to general anaesthesia induction, immediately postintubation, and every 15 minutes interval during CPB (until 150 minutes or end of the CPB whichever was earlier). Postoperative neurologic reassessment was done at 6 hours/postextubation (whichever earlier), at 24 hours and after 7 days, postoperatively. Continuous variables were compared using the student t-tests, while Chi-square or Fisher’sexact test was used to compare categorical variables. To assess inter-rater reliability for categorical variables, the Cohen’s Kappa statistic was used. Results: The mean age of the study cohort was 56.30±11.42 years. A slight male preponderance (56%) was observed. With regards to mean of total CPB time, it was insignificantly higher in patients with adverse neurologic outcomes as compared to those without adverse neurological outcomes (165.83±53.61 minutes vs. 121.36±21.41 minutes; p-value=0.098). Patients with adverse neurologic outcomes had significantly higher ONSD (average of both planes) on CPB from 60 minutes through 150 minutes/end of CPB timeline for right eye (p-value &lt; 0.001), left eye (p-value &lt;0.001), and both eyes (p-value &lt;0.001). For patients with ONSD value (average of both eyes in both planes of each eye) ≥5.5 mm had more likelihood to develop adverse neurologic outcomes, postoperatively. With respect to maximum ONSD anytime during CPB (average of both eyes in both planes of each eye), an arbitrary cut-off of ≥5.5 mm showed a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 95%, diagnostic accuracy of 100%, and predictive value of 100% with significant p-value of &lt;0.001. Conclusion: Serial ultrasonographic ONSD measurement is assuredly a promising tool to monitor elevated level of ICP as well as a good predictor for the assessment of major adverse neurologic outcomes secondary to open heart cardiac surgeries.

The Influence of Risk Factors on Perioperative Results of Multivessel Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Through the Left Anterior Minitoracotomy

Multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) through the left anterior minitoracotomy using the technique of total coronary revascularization via left anterior thoracotomy (TCRAT) is routinely performed in our institution since July 2017. This technique is used in all patients regardless of the number of anastomoses, quality and location of coronary targets, body mass index, age, comorbidities and predicted postoperative risk.&#x0D; The aim. To present the results of 349 consecutive patients with isolated multivessel coronary artery disease who underwent minimally invasive CABG. To compare perioperative outcomes of minimally invasive CABG in patients with existent risk factors for CABG and to identify possible contraindications to the use of this CABG technique.&#x0D; Materials and methods. From July 2017 to January 2020, 357 consecutive patients were underwent multivessel CABG at our institution. Eight (2.3%) patients in whom CABG was performed through the median sternotomy were excluded from the study. The remaining 349 (97.7%) patients underwent complete myocardial revascularization through the left anterior minitracotomy using TCRAT technique (peripheral cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), cold blood cardioplegia). All the patients were divided into groups according to the presence of risk factors (obesity, old age, diabetes, risk of postoperative mortality greater than 2.0 calculated by EuroSCORE II scale) to analyze the impact of these factors on intraoperative and postoperative parameters.&#x0D; Results. Intra- and postoperative parameters in patients of all groups were within safe limits. There was no statistically significant difference between the patients older and younger than 70. Diabetic and obese patients had a longer total operation time (on average by 5%, p = 0.003 and 7%, p = 0.019, respectively), CPB time (on average by 8%, p = 0.002 and 11%, p = 0.0001, respectively) and intensive care unit stay (on average by 15%, p = 0.004 and 17%, p = 0.013, respectively) compared to the patients without these conditions. The patients with EuroSCORE II risk more than 2.0 were had longer main phase of the operation (on average by 12 minutes, i.e. 8%, p = 0.013), they required longer ventilation time (by 27%, p = 0.036), longer stay in the intensive care unit (by 23%, p = 0.0004), had a longer hospital stay (by 15%, p &lt; 0.0001), they were more likely to have acute kidney damage that required hemodialysis, and mortality was observed only in this group of patients. However, even in this group of severe patients, the incidence of complications and mortality did not exceed the predicted rates.&#x0D; Conclusions. The technique of minimally invasive CABG through the left anterior thoracotomy allow the possibility to avoid median sternotomy in 97.7% of patients with multivessel coronary artery disease.&#x0D; The technique of minimally invasive multivessel CABG through the left anterior thoracotomy is universal and does not require patient selection, because it can be used effectively and safely regardless of obesity, diabetes or old age.&#x0D; This technique can be performed in patients with any EuroSCORE II rate without the mortality rate increase.

Can the Minimum Protamine Dose to Neutralize Heparin at the Completion of Cardiopulmonary Bypass be Significantly Lower than the Conventional Practice?

Systemic anticoagulation with heparin during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) should be neutralized by protamine administration to restore normal hemostasis. However, protamine has potentially serious side effects and excessive protamine can cause increased postoperative bleeding. Thus, our goal is to appropriately dose protamine at the completion of CPB to neutralize heparin so that neither residual heparin nor excessive protamine is present. We performed a retrospective study of 216 patients who underwent cardiac surgery to search for a safe minimum protamine dose (PD) when measuring heparin concentration (HC). In addition, we developed a formula to determine PD using total heparin dose (THD) and CPB time without measuring HC. When protamine-to-heparin ratio (P-to-H) is set at 1 mg protamine to 100 international unit (IU) heparin in HMS Plus Hemostasis Management System (HMS), we determined that 75% of the calculated total PD is a safe minimum PD to sufficiently neutralize circulating heparin after CPB. On average, this translates into either .37 mg protamine/100 IU heparin of THD or .54 mg/100 IU of the first heparin bolus. The formula we developed to calculate PD without measuring HC can provide a PD that strongly agrees with the safe minimum PD when measuring HC. The safe minimum PD to neutralize circulating heparin after CPB can be significantly lower than conventional dosing practices. Reduction of PD may decrease the risk of postoperative bleeding and protamine-related adverse events. Based on our data, we decreased P-to-H in HMS to examine whether it is possible to reduce PD further than the safe minimum PD determined in this study.

Can the Minimum Protamine Dose to Neutralize Heparin at the Completion of Cardiopulmonary Bypass be Significantly Lower than the Conventional Practice?

Systemic anticoagulation with heparin during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) should be neutralized by protamine administration to restore normal hemostasis. However, protamine has potentially serious side effects and excessive protamine can cause increased postoperative bleeding. Thus, our goal is to appropriately dose protamine at the completion of CPB to neutralize heparin so that neither residual heparin nor excessive protamine is present. We performed a retrospective study of 216 patients who underwent cardiac surgery to search for a safe minimum protamine dose (PD) when measuring heparin concentration (HC). In addition, we developed a formula to determine PD using total heparin dose (THD) and CPB time without measuring HC. When protamine-to-heparin ratio (P-to-H) is set at 1 mg protamine to 100 international unit (IU) heparin in HMS Plus Hemostasis Management System (HMS), we determined that 75% of the calculated total PD is a safe minimum PD to sufficiently neutralize circulating heparin after CPB. On average, this translates into either .37 mg protamine/100 IU heparin of THD or .54 mg/100 IU of the first heparin bolus. The formula we developed to calculate PD without measuring HC can provide a PD that strongly agrees with the safe minimum PD when measuring HC. The safe minimum PD to neutralize circulating heparin after CPB can be significantly lower than conventional dosing practices. Reduction of PD may decrease the risk of postoperative bleeding and protamine-related adverse events. Based on our data, we decreased P-to-H in HMS to examine whether it is possible to reduce PD further than the safe minimum PD determined in this study.

Preoperative anemia and transfusion in cardiac surgery: a single-centre retrospective study

BackgroundPreoperative anemia and transfusion are associated with worse outcomes. This study aims to identify the prevalence of preoperative anemia, transfusion rates on surgery day, and predictors of transfusion in elective cardiac surgery patients at our centre. We also aim to evaluate our preoperative intervention program, and examine the intervention window for anemia before surgery.MethodsThis study included 797 adult patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery at a tertiary hospital. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of transfusion on surgery day.ResultsPreoperative anemia was present in 15% of patients. Anemic patients had a significantly higher transfusion rate at 53% compared to 10% in non-anemic patients. Hemoglobin concentration, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), body surface area (BSA), and total cardiopulmonary bypass time were predictive of transfusion on surgery day. Patients had a median of 7 days between initial visit and surgery day, however, referral to the blood conservation clinic was only done for 8% of anemic patients and treatment was initiated in 3% of anemic patients. Among the 3 anemic patients who received treatment, 2 did not require blood transfusion on surgery day.ConclusionsPreoperative anemia is present in 15% of patients at our centre and these patients have 53% transfusion rates on surgery day. Hemoglobin concentration, eGFR, BSA, and total cardiopulmonary bypass time were predictors of transfusion on surgery day. Patients had a median of 7 days between initial visit and surgery day. Referral and anemia treatment were infrequently initiated in preoperative anemic patient.