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Certain subsets of high-risk mitral valve patients are not suitable candidates for transcatheter therapies. The objective of this report is to present a young patient with combined mitral valve and coronary artery disease to illustrate these challenges.In this report, we present a 47-year-old man with longstanding HIV infection who was referred with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and profound cardiomyopathy to highlight the importance of decision-making and perioperative management.A 47-year-old HIV positive man with New York Heart Association class IV congestive heart failure was found to have severe MR (mixed Carpentier Type I and IIIB pathologies). The last viral load titer of the patient was undetectable. Cardiac catheterization revealed a chronic total occlusion of the middle of left anterior descending artery, ostial obtuse marginal and 70% posterior descending artery lesion, as well as severe pulmonary hypertension (PAP of 70/30 (mean: 43)), and a pulmonary vascular resistance of 4.6 Woods units. Preoperative cardiac magnetic resonance imaging showed left ventricular ejection fraction of 20%, right ventricular ejection fraction of 30%, nonviable circumflex distribution and scattered viability in the anterior and inferior cardiac walls. He underwent a high-risk coronary artery blood grafting plus mitral valve (MV) replacement (with intra-aortic balloon pump support). The postoperative course was complicated by gastrointestinal bleeding requiring transfusion, aspiration pneumonitis, atrial flutter and difficile colitis. However, the patient recovered appropriately, and remained asymptomatic and healthy in three months follow-up postoperatively. Application of transcatheter MV or device-assisted therapies for high-risk patients with severe MR might be limited due to financial, medical or social situations. In these instances, high-risk mitral valve surgery may still be the choice treatment in the selected patients.

Certain benefits are clearly associated with the use of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) as compared with the on-pump CABG. The superiority is more evident in patients with multiple co morbidities including renal failure.We reviewed the medical records of a 67-year-old male with a past medical history that was significant for multiple cardiovascular diseases and new-onset end-stage renal disease. The case was suffering from dyspnea and work-up was suggestive of non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure.During the hospital course, he developed end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis. Further cardiac evaluation presented three-vessel coronary artery disease. The patient underwent off-pump CABG. Post-operatively, the patient had minimal complications and did not receive hemodialysis for 53 days.Off-pump CABG has evident short-term benefits for patients with the end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis, including possible improvement in cardiac function and avoidance of hemodialysis

Introduction: Infective endocarditis is well known to produce neurologic complications from septic emboli, which mandates a multidisciplinary approach between neurosurgery and cardiac surgery. However, literature is not clear as to the optimal interval length between neurosurgery and cardiac surgery.Presentation of Cases: The first case involves a 60-year-old woman with significant past medical history presenting with native valve methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) endocarditis causing cerebral vascular infarcts. The second case involves a 45-year-old man with no significant past medical history presenting with infective endocarditis of the aortic and mitral valve.Discussion: Cardiac surgery was performed 27 and 17 days after neurosurgery intervention for each case, respectively. All operations were successful with few complications. Guidelines suggest waiting at least one week until valvular surgery, but other reports suggest earlier surgery produces preferable outcomes. In the cases presented, both patients experienced no further significant events to date after receiving cardiac surgery >3 weeks after the initial ischemic stroke event. Conclusion: Neurological deficits mandate a collaborative approach between neurosurgery and cardiac surgery. Significance between time of neurosurgical intervention and cardiac surgery remains controversial, but waiting at least one week shows positive results.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a novel therapeutic intervention for the replacement of severely stenotic aortic valves in high-risk patients for standard surgical procedures. Since the initial PARTNER trial results, use of TAVR has been on the rise each year. New delivery methods and different valves have been developed and modified in order to promote the minimally invasive procedure and reduce common complications, such as stroke. This review article focuses on the current data on the indications, risks, benefits, and future directions of TAVR. Recently, TAVR has been considered as a standard-of-care procedure. While this technique is used frequently in high-risk surgical candidates, studies have been focusing on the application of this method for younger patients with lower surgical risk. Moreover, several studies have proposed promising results regarding the use of valve-in-valve technique or the procedure in which the valve is placed within a previously implemented bioprosthetic valve. However, ischemic strokes and paravalvular leak remain a matter of debate in these surgeries. New methods and devices have been developed to reduce the incidence of post-procedural stroke. While the third generation of TAVR valves (i.e., Edwards Sapien 3 and Medtronic Evolut R) addresses the issue of paravalvular leak structurally, results on their efficacy in reducing the risk of paravalvular leak are yet to be obtained. Furthermore, TAVR enters the field of hybrid methods in the treatment of cardiac issues via both surgical and catheter-based approaches. Finally, while TAVR is primarily performed on cases with aortic stenosis, new valves and methods have been proposed regarding the application of this technique in aortic regurgitation, as well as other aortic pathologies. TAVR is a suitable therapeutic approach for the treatment of aortic stenosis in high-risk patients. Considering the promising results in the current patient population, recent studies have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy of this approach as a standard-of-care procedure.

This case report was an attempt to present the importance of diagnostic echocardiography and closure of a patent foramen ovale in carcinoid heart disease. Herein, we present a case of a 48-year-old woman with a carcinoid metastasis presenting with tricuspid regurgitation, pulmonic stenosis, patent foramen ovale, and borderline left ventricular ejection fraction on an echocardiogram. Surgical intervention included closing the patent foramen ovale and replacing the tricuspid valve via mini-sternotomy. The tricuspid valve was repaired and the ejection fraction was preserved. The patient had an uncomplicated post-operative course. As indicated in this report, closing the patent foramen ovale along with fixing malfunctioning valves can improve the ejection fraction and the associated symptoms.

Objective: Reoperative procedures on the pulmonary valve are not uncommonly encountered in patients with congenital heart disease. For those patients who require cardiac reoperations, the novel INS...

Background: Recombinant and plasma-derived factor products, such as activated factor seven (rFVIIa) and four-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4-factor PCC), have been used off-label for bleeding after cardiac surgery, but little evidence has been published regarding their efficacy and safety. Objective: To determine whether there is a difference in chest tube output in patients who have received 4-factor PCC or rFVIIa for critical postoperative bleeding associated with cardiovascular surgery. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted utilizing the electronic medical record system at a 657-bed community, tertiary care hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. Nonpregnant patients ≥18 years of age experiencing significant bleeding during cardiac surgery who received either PCC or rFVIIa perioperatively or postoperatively between April 2015 through December 2016 were eligible for inclusion. Patients were excluded if they received 4-factor PCC or rFVIIa for any indication other than bleeding during cardiac surgery or if they received both agents. Results: Data conclude that there is no significant difference in chest tube output 24 hours postoperatively between patients treated with 4-factor PCC or rFVIIa. There was no difference in bleeding, thromboembolic events, or re-exploration between the rFVIIa and 4-factor PCC groups, but there was a difference in units of fresh frozen plasma administered and hospital length of stay. Conclusion: 4-Factor PCC may be an equally efficacious alternative to rFVIIa for patients experiencing significant bleeding during cardiac surgery. There is no difference in chest tube output; therefore, there is no difference in bleeding—either at 24 hours postoperatively or total.

Objectives We performed a prospective, single-arm clinical trial approved under a Food and Drug Administration Investigational Device Exemption to assess safety and efficacy of Perceval, a sutureless bovine pericardial aortic valve representing the initial US experience. Methods From June 2013 to January 2015, 300 patients (mean age 76.7 ± 7.7 years, 54.3% men, 37.3% ≥80 years, median Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality 2.8%), underwent Perceval valve implantation at 18 centers across the United States. Twenty patients (6.7%) had a bicuspid aortic valve and 5 (1.7%) patients had previous aortic valve replacement. A minimally invasive approach was used in 80 (26.7%) and concomitant procedures were performed in 113 (37.8%) patients. Results Two hundred eighty-nine patients (96.3%) were successfully implanted. Operative mortality (≤30 days) was 1.3% (n = 4) (observed to expected ratio of 0.40). One-year results included all-cause mortality in 5.2% (n = 15), stroke in 1% (n = 3), and endocarditis in 1.7% (n = 5). New permanent periprocedural pacemaker rate was 10.7% (n = 30/281); 2.5% (n = 7/281) resulted from third-degree atrioventricular block. One-year valve-related reoperation was 2.1% (n = 6). At 1-year follow-up, 98% of patients were in New York Heart Association class I/II, left ventricular mass index decreased from 103.5 ± 30.1 g/m2 at discharge to 95.8 ± 27.1 g/m2 (P = .001), and 3 (1.3%) moderate paravalvular leaks were identified. Health-related quality of life score increased from 62.7 ± 21.8 before surgery to 85.5 ± 17.8 at 1 year (P Conclusions These results confirm the safety and effectiveness of the Perceval sutureless aortic valve replacement in study patients with lower mortality than expected from a risk prediction model. Persistent hemodynamic benefit and improvement in quality of life at 1 year support the importance of this device in the management of aortic valve disease.

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) refers to a broad group of operations designed to reduce surgical trauma and facilitate postoperative recovery. MICS approaches include partial sternotomy, lateral mini-thoracotomy, robotic, and subxiphoid or subdiaphragmatic access. Over the last two decades, serial refinements in cardiac stabilizers, endovascular devices, as well as videoscopic and robotic technology have enabled more widespread adoption of these techniques. The spectrum of diseases that can be treated with MICS includes not only coronary, valvular, and aortic pathology but also congenital defects and arrhythmia surgery. Indeed, from beating heart coronary surgery to transcatheter valve replacement to advances in stent graft technology, there is virtually no area of cardiac surgery where a MICS strategy cannot be contemplated. Over the last decade, multiple studies have demonstrated the safety, efficacy, and superiority of minimally invasive approaches when applied to properly selected patients. In addition, MICS techniques can be combined with evolving percutaneous techniques to provide innovative hybrid solutions for the care of complex patients. This chapter outlines the recent history and development of minimally invasive cardiac surgery and provides a summary of current technologies.

Paravalvular leak (PVL) is a well-recognized complication of prosthetic valve replacement. Peri-prosthetic regurgitation is clinically significant in 1–5% of patients with PVL causing symptoms of congestive heart failure and/or hemolysis. Traditionally, cardiac reoperation and surgical re-replacement of the valve has been the treatment of choice. Reoperations carry higher risks than primary operations and tissue fragility may make successful prosthetic valve re-replacement difficult. Percutaneous closure of PVL is a newer and less invasive technique, gaining popularity especially in high-risk surgical patients. However, the long-term efficacy is unknown, and the technique is limited by the size of the PVL. In the case of multiple PVLs in high-risk patients, another viable alternative is to employ a hybrid strategy. This combination of surgical and percutaneous approaches has not been reported previously. Our report describes the use of a hybrid strategy in the management of multiple PVLs in a high-risk patient. This synergy relies on the Heart Team concept, and may result in improved outcomes with PVLs in high-risk or non-surgical candidates.

Objective Kommerell diverticulum carries the risk of rupture or dissection if left untreated. Various methods of repair have been described, and options have recently expanded to include the hybrid approach. This study describes hybrid repair techniques for Kommerell diverticulum and assesses outcomes. Methods Between 2005 and 2010, a total of 10 patients underwent hybrid repair of Kommerell diverticulum (3 right-sided arches) by elephant trunk with endovascular completion (n = 4), frozen elephant trunk (n = 3), or stent grafting with cervical debranching (n = 3). Mean age at procedure was 57 ± 25.5 years. Subclavian artery revascularization was performed preoperatively (n = 4), intraoperatively (n = 3), or postoperatively (n = 3), either as carotid-to-subclavian bypass (n = 7; n = 3 bilateral) or originating from the ascending aorta (n = 3). Data were obtained from the prospectively collected database and chart review. Results There was no in-hospital mortality, nor were there any cases of respiratory or renal failure. There were no cases of paraplegia, but there was 1 stroke. Two patients had type 2 endoleaks develop; 1 required subclavian coil embolization. Mean hospital stay was 8.73 ± 4 days. After repair, there were no ruptures, no significant growth, and all patients remain free of symptoms. Conclusions Hybrid repair is a safe and effective surgical treatment option for Kommerell diverticulum. Selection of the specific type of intervention is based on patient anatomy and comorbid conditions.

ObjectivesTo compare the outcomes between patients undergoing endovascular (EEC) or open (OEC) approaches to second-stage elephant trunk completion (EC).MethodsFrom 1993 to 2010, 225 patients underwent second-stage EC (EEC, n = 92; OEC, n = 133). Propensity matching was performed for a fair comparison.ResultsThe EEC patients were older, more likely to have atrial fibrillation, and had a smaller proximal aorta. The 30-day mortality was 6.2% (6.5% EEC vs 6% OEC, P = .88). No difference was found in bleeding (8.8%), stroke (3%), renal failure (4%), or spinal cord injury (4%); however, the OEC patients required tracheostomy more often (10 vs 1, P = .014). Survival after second-stage EC at 6 months and 1 and 5 years was 91%, 90%, and 77%, respectively. Survival and major morbidity did not differ after matching (44 pairs). However, the EEC group had shorter stays (9.9 ± 13 vs 13 ± 9 days, P

Background Endovascular stent grafting of the descending thoracic aorta has evolved rapidly and is now the standard of care for certain patient subsets. However, the durability of this technique is limited by the development of technique-specific complications at mid-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence, techniques, and outcomes of secondary intervention for complications after stent grafting of the descending thoracic aorta. Methods Between March 2001 and November 2011, 152 patients underwent endovascular thoracic aortic repair (TEVAR). We identified 19 (12.5%) patients from this cohort who required secondary interventions. Results The indications for TEVAR were type B aortic dissection in 12 patients, thoracic aortic aneurysm in six patients, and intramural hematoma in one patient. The mean time between TEVAR and secondary intervention was 20.49 ± 24.90 months (range, 1.2–83 months). A secondary endovascular intervention was required in eleven patient, six patients required secondary surgical therapy, and hybrid procedures were performed in two patients. Endoleaks were the most common indication for a secondary intervention. The 30-day mortality rate was 10.5% (2/19). Two perioperative deaths were observed following surgical therapy. During the mean follow-up of 78.06 ± 37.37 months (range, 23–142 months) after TEVAR, four unrelated deaths occurred, two patients were lost to follow-up, and four patients required a further intervention. Conclusions Secondary intervention after endovascular stent grafting of the descending thoracic aorta was not infrequently required and can be performed with acceptable risks. However, serial, systematic follow-up is essential to detect late complications and to perform secondary procedures, preferably under elective circumstances. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12252 (J Card Surg 2014;29:66-73)

Intracardiac leiomyomatosis is a rare case that is often confused with more common diseases typically right atrial myxoma. It involves tumor extension of the uterine wall tumor through the inferior vena cava (IVC) and into the right atrium. Since its discovery in 1907, very few cases have been reported. The disease is treated surgically using one of two surgical approaches: the two-stage and the single-stage approach. The following case report involves an unusual presentation of a Caucasian woman with intracardiac leiomyomatosis who underwent a successful single-stage approach with coordinated involvement from Gynecological-Oncological, Urological, Vascular, and Cardiothoracic Surgery services.

Introduction: Unruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysms are surgically treated after change in clinical presentation or increased size on serial echocardiography. Prostheses such as Dacron grafts and Gortex are notably used, but use of CorMatrix has not previously been reported. The following case presents the first reported use of CorMatrix for sinus of Valsalva repair. Presentation of case: An 84-year-old male presented with a 6.3 cm right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm seen with echocardiography. Surgical sinus of Valsalva repair involved inserting BioGlue within the aneurysm and closing the defect with CorMatrix. Twomonth follow-up showed no significant postoperative complications. Discussion: The presented case reports the first use of CorMatrix for sinus of Valsalva repair and represents the oldest patient in the world to undergo this surgery. Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms are asymptomatic in 25% of cases and are incidentally found with echocardiography. Although survival in elderly patients specifically is unknown, postoperative survival overall is 88% at 20 years. CorMatrix is commonly used for structural heart defect repairs, but has not been described for sinus of Valsalva repairs. Conclusions: CorMatrix presents as a suitable prosthesis for sinus of Valsalva aneurysm repair.

Background The optimal management of the dissected aortic root remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine whether aortic valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) compromises survival in aortic dissection repair and to evaluate the comparative efficacy of 2 types of VSRR procedures. Methods The Heart Center database (Leipzig, Germany) was reviewed to identify patients who underwent a VSRR for acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) repair. Patients were classified into 3 groups: Bentall (biological or mechanical valved conduit), Yacoub VSRR, and David VSRR. Intergroup comparisons were performed using the t test and analysis of variance as appropriate. Results From March 1995 to April 2010, 208/374 patients (56%) undergoing AAAD repair received an aortic root procedure. Group 1 (n = 130) underwent a Bentall operation, group 2 (n = 51) underwent a modified Yacoub procedure, and group 3 (n = 27) underwent a modified David procedure. Age and logistic European system for cardiac operative risk evaluation (EuroSCORE) as well as cross-clamp, cardiopulmonary bypass, and circulatory arrest times were similar among the groups. Hospital mortality among all 3 groups was similar (group 1, 27%; group 2, 16%; group 3, 15%). At a mean follow-up of 44 months for group 2 and 27 months for group 3, there was no difference in the need for aortic valve replacement for moderate to severe aortic insufficiency (AI) (2/37 survivors in group 2 versus 1/23 survivors in group 3; z score=−0.279; p > 0.05). Five-year survival estimates were 66% for group 1, 65% for group 2, and 80% for group 3 (log rank p = 0.2). Conclusions Both the David and Yacoub techniques have similar midterm durability in AAAD repair. When compared with the Bentall procedure, neither technique compromises short-term or midterm survival after AAAD repair.

OBJECTIVES: The David aortic valve-sparing reimplantation (AVr-D) operation is increasingly being used in patients with aortic root aneurysmal disease and pliable aortic cusps. The objective of this study was to assess our early and medium-term outcomes with the AVr-D operation. METHODS: Between 2003 and 2011, a total of 179 patients underwent AVr-D procedures. The mean patient age was 49.7 ± 15.1 years, and 23.5% (n= 42) were females. Marfan syndrome was present in 17.3% of patients (n= 31), and acute Type A aortic dissection in 15.6% (n= 28). Clinical follow-up was 100% complete and was 1.8 ± 1.6 years (0 days to 7.5 years) long. Echocardiographic follow-up was performed 2.2 ± 1.5 years (0 days to 7.5 years) postoperatively and was 77% complete. RESULTS: Early mortality was 1.1% (n= 2), with both deaths occurring in patients with Type A dissection. Pre-discharge echocardiography revealed no patients with >2+ aortic insufficiency (AI), 19.6% of patients (n= 34) with 1+ or 2+ AI and 80.4% of patients (n= 145) with trace or no AI. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameters decreased significantly from 5.6 ± 0.9 to 5.1 ± 0.8 cm early postoperatively (P < 0.01). Transvalvular maximum gradients were similar before discharge and at last follow-up (10.6 ± 5.4 vs. 10.0 ± 8.2 mmHg, P= 0.4). AI grade increased significantly over time (0.3 ± 0.4 before discharge vs. 0.5 ± 0.6 at follow-up, P = 0.01), but remained less than moderate in 93.6% of patients. Four patients required aortic valve re-replacement during follow-up, two due to early endocarditis and two due to non-coronary leaflet prolapse in Marfan patients. Five-year freedom from aortic valve reoperation was 95.9 ± 2.0%. CONCLUSIONS: AVr-D is associated with a low mortality and morbidity rate, even in patients with Type A aortic dissection. Although a slightly higher rate of recurrent AI may be present in patients with Marfan syndrome, freedom from recurrent AI and reoperation remains excellent during medium-term follow-up. The David operation should be considered the gold standard for patients with proximal aortic root pathology (aneurysm or dissection) and pliable aortic cusps.

In recent years, catheter-based aortic valve interventions have become established procedures for the treatment of high-risk and advanced age patients with aortic valve pathologies. One of the limitations of the widespread applicability of this procedure is the annulus size. Until recently, no prosthesis was available to treat patients with a large annulus. We report on a patient with high-grade aortic stenosis (AS) and a 27-mm annulus, who underwent transapical implantation (TAP) of an Edwards SAPIEN® 29-mm prosthesis (Edwards LifeScience, Irvine, CA, USA). Due to insufficient dilation of his heavily calcified, functionally bicuspid aortic valve leaflets during balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV), the TAP prosthesis did not anchor adequately. This was determined during follow-up as he developed progressive aortic insufficiency and orthopnea, and an echocardiography revealed that the valve had been displaced into the LVOT. A conventional aortic valve replacement and ascending aorta replacement were performed, at which time the TAP prosthesis was removed. The patient recovered uneventfully, and was discharged with a well-functioning aortic bioprosthetic valve and in good general condition.

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel, reverse thermo-sensitive polymer (LeGoo™) for its ability to provide temporary coronary occlusion and hemostasis during minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) surgery. Between January 2009 and March 2009, 20 consecutive MIDCAB patients were studied. Ten patients received a conventional MIDCAB procedure using proximal vessel loops and CO2 blower (control group). The following 10 patients were operated by an otherwise identical procedure, except that intracoronary administration of LeGoo™ was used instead of vessel snares (LeGoo™ group). Left internal mammary artery (LIMA) bypass flow, peri- and postoperative events and perioperative creatinine kinase-MB fraction (CK-MB) release were prospectively analyzed. CO2-blower use was required in three of 10 of the LeGoo™ patients. Procedural time was identical, with a trend of shorter anastomosis time in the LeGoo™ group (12.3 vs. 10.7 min, P=0.11). LIMA-LAD flow was also not different (control 35.8 vs. LeGoo™ 42.5 ml/min, P=0.541). CK-MB values were not statistically different on postoperative days 1 and 2. However, the level of CK-MB 4 h postoperatively was lower in LeGoo™ patients (18.3±6.1 vs. 13.2±2.9 U/l, P=0.006). No major adverse cerebral or cardiovascular event occurred postoperatively and during follow-up of 317±21 days. Using LeGoo™ to achieve temporary coronary artery occlusion is easier to work with during MIDCAB due to the absence of vessel snares and less need of blowing to eliminate blood from the operative field. There were no negative postoperative events associated with the use of LeGoo™.

Whereas aortic valve replacement (AVR) is an effective treatment for aortic stenosis, aortic valve repair (AVr) is an excellent alternative to AVR for aortic insufficiency (AI). The advantages of AVr include a lower risk of infective endocarditis, plus avoidance of typical complications associated with mechanical valves (i.e., thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications) and bioprostheses (i.e., structural valve deterioration). However, AVr is technically more demanding, surgical techniques vary from center to center, and outcomes are variable. As experience accrues, the indications for AVr continue to expand in some centers. Careful preoperative evaluation and intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are necessary for proper patient selection. The ideal patient is young or middle-aged, does not require multiple concomitant cardiac procedures, has a dilated aortic sinotubular junction (STJ) and/or root, and pliable AV cusps. A standardized pathology- directed approach helps achieve reproducible outcomes. A dilated ascending aorta/STJ is treated with simple replacement of the ascending aorta with plication of the STJ. Dilated aortic sinuses of Valsalva are treated with a valve-sparing root replacement, either a David reimplantation or a Yacoub remodeling procedure. Aortic cusp pathology may be treated with cusp plication, triangular resection, or patch closure of perforations. The dilated aortic annulus and Marfan's syndrome patients are optimally treated with a David procedure.The perioperative results significantly influence long-term outcomes, emphasizing the importance of postrepair TEE. Using a standardized approach with careful patient selection, an 85-95% survival, a 90-95% freedom from reoperation, and an 80-90% freedom from moderate to severe AI may be expected at 8-10 years postoperatively.

Treatment paradigms for aortic dissection are based upon the types of complications with which the patients present. For acute uncomplicated dissection, medical therapy is preferred. Endovascular repair is preferred for patients with acute distal dissection complicated by end-organ malperfusion, rupture, or aneurysmal degeneration. For patients with chronic dissection with aneurysm, open repair is preferred if safe, and endovascular treatment should be limited to highest-risk patients because of the uncertainty of success with this approach. For intermediate-risk patients, hybrid repairs provide a good alternative. Ultimately, improvement in long-term outcomes after treatment of aortic dissection still depends on prevention of end-organ ischemia and aneurysmal degeneration of the chronically dissected distal aorta. Although the evidence base for the roles of various approaches is lacking, data currently being accrued and must be closely analyzed to better estimate both the short- and long-term benefits of these complementary treatment strategies.

It is unknown whether coronary reintervention confers a survival advantage when a previously placed left internal thoracic artery graft to the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) is patent. We compared survival after medical therapy, percutaneous intervention, and reoperative coronary artery bypass grafting in such patients who developed non-LAD territory jeopardy.From 1971 to 2000, 4,640 patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting that included left internal thoracic artery to LAD grafting were found on angiography during active follow-up to have a patent left internal thoracic artery to LAD graft, but at least 50% stenosis of non-LAD territories or grafts to them. Two survival analyses were performed: (1) intent-to-treat, which included patients undergoing reoperative coronary artery bypass grafting (n = 731) or percutaneous intervention (n = 994) within 6 weeks of angiography or medical management (n = 2,782), and (2) competing risk/crossover, in which patients were classified as medically managed until crossover to coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous intervention.In the intent-to-treat analysis, propensity-adjusted early (1 year) survival was similar for all patients, but late survival was slightly better after percutaneous intervention than with medical management (por = 0.05). In the competing risk/crossover analysis, adjusted survival was best for medically treated patients early; however, late survival was similar among all three groups.Patients with patent left internal thoracic artery to LAD grafts who develop non-LAD territory jeopardy derive no survival benefit from reintervention, consistent with previous observations that for coronary reintervention to improve survival, the LAD territory must be jeopardized. Reintervention in patients with a patent left internal thoracic artery to LAD graft may be warranted to relieve symptoms, without expecting a survival benefit.

The antegrade stented (frozen) elephant trunk procedure and pulmonary embolectomy are complex cardiac surgical operations for extensive aortic and pulmonary arterial disease, respectively. We report the first known case of concomitant antegrade stented elephant trunk and pulmonary embolectomy in order to highlight pre- and intra-operative management strategies for this uncommon disease combination.

A middle-aged adult patient with a history of aortic root replacement with a mechanical valved conduit and remote chest trauma was referred to our institution with prosthetic endocarditis. Transoesophageal echocardiogram at our institution confirmed a near-complete dehiscence of the prosthetic aortic valve from the conduit, with significant perivalvular flow forming a pseudoaneurysm. The patient underwent a high-risk re-operation, involving redo aortic root replacement with a homograft after extensive debridement of the infected tissue. The patient was discharged to an outside facility after an uncomplicated hospital course, and remains stable.

Conventional surgical risk scores are used to identify suitable candidates for transapical aortic valve implantation (TA-AVI) at present. However, these scores do not consider multiple high-risk conditions, including porcelain aorta, mediastinal irradiation or frailty. The aim of this study was to compare the predictive ability of the new EuroSCORE II with the surgical risk scores currently in use.From February 2006 to May 2011, 360 consecutive high-risk patients, age 81.6 ± 6.4 years, 64.4% female, were included using the Edwards SAPIEN™ prosthesis. The prognostic value of the EuroSCORE II was evaluated and compared with the logistic EuroSCORE and STS mortality score by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. In addition, a Spearman correlation analysis was performed, and a stepwise multivariate Cox regression used to identify the independent risk factors of mortality.The STS score and EuroSCORE II (r = 0.504, P0.001) showed a good correlation, while a strong correlation was found between the logistic EuroSCORE and EuroSCORE II (r = 0.717, P0.001). Thirty-day and in-hospital mortality rates were 10.6% (38 of 360) and 11.4% (41 of 360), respectively. In-hospital mortality rate was estimated by the logistic EuroSCORE: 30.0 ± 15.7%, the STS score: 11.7 ± 7.8% and the EuroSCORE II: 6.7 ± 5.1%. The prognostic values of the STS score, logistic EuroSCORE and the recent EuroSCORE II systems were analysed by ROC curve analysis for the prediction of 30-day (area under the curve, AUC: 0.64 vs 0.55 vs 0.50) and in-hospital mortality (AUC: 0.65 vs 0.54 vs 0.49). Multivariate regression analysis revealed length of preoperative hospital stay5 days, body weight65 kg, preoperative aortic annular diameter ≤ 20 mm, vital capacity70% and concomitant mitral regurgitation1+ as independent risk factors.In patients undergoing TA-AVI, the new EuroSCORE II correlates strongly with the logistic EuroSCORE, but is a poorer predictor of 30-day and in-hospital mortality than the STS score. A true transcatheter aortic valve implantation risk score would be desirable beyond the established scores.

Background: Impaired respiratory function is believed to be a risk factor for transapical aortic valve implantation (TA-AVI). The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence, predictors and impact of acute and chronic respiratory failure (ARF and CRF) on procedural success and outcome. Methods: 350 consecutive ‘high-risk’ patients, age 81.8 6.4 years, 66.3% female, were included during a 4-year period. Preoperative estimated FEV1 was 91.9 33.6%. Mean logistic EuroSCORE was 31.0 15.9% and mean STS-Score 12.0 7.7%. An uniand multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Results: Regarding the postoperative respiratory outcome, ARF occurred in 14.9% and interstitial lung disease (OR 23.40, p 0.01), transfusion 4 RBC units (OR 15.35, p 0.001), brief reactive psychosis (OR 8.39, p 0.001), age 80 yrs (OR 3.66, p 0.035) and vital capacity 60% (OR 3.23, p 0.025) were independent risk factors for this event. Postoperative re-intubation was required in 17.1%. Vital capacity 60% (OR 2.94, p 0.046) and transfusion 4 RBC units (OR 16.00, p 0.001) were independent risk factors for CRF. Short-term and long-term survival was explicitly lower in the ARF, CRF and re-intubation groups (p 0.001 each). Conclusions: Interstitial lung disease, age 80 yrs and vital capacity 60% are preoperative risk factors for impaired respiratory outcome. Further studies will define if the same risk factors can be expected using a transfemoral approach.

Device malposition and dysfunction with resultant severe aortic insufficiency are known complications of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Fortunately, these complications can often be successfully treated with a transcatheter valve-in-valve (VinV) implantation. However, prosthetic leaflet dysfunction or immobility from the VinV configuration can lead to severe central aortic insufficiency. We report the first known case of implantation of a third SAPIEN prosthesis (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA) during TAVI as a valuable bailout strategy to deal with severe aortic insufficiency after VinV implantation.

Background Patient selection for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains highly controversial. Some screened patients subsequently undergo conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR) because they are unsuitable TAVI candidates. This study examined the indications and outcomes for these patients, thereby determining the efficacy of the screening process. Methods Between January 2006 and December 2010, 79 consecutive patients (49% men), aged older than 75 years with high surgical risk, were screened for TAVI, but subsequently underwent conventional AVR through a partial or complete sternotomy. The indications, demographics, and outcomes of this cohort were studied. Results Mean age was 80.4 ± 3.6 years. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 0.55 ± 0.16, and the mean logistic European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation was 13% ± 7%. Of the 79 patients, 6 (7.6%) had prior cardiac surgical procedures. Indications for TAVI denial after patient evaluations were a large annulus in 31 (39%), acceptable risk profile for AVR in 24 (30%), need for urgent operation in 11 (14%), and concomitant cardiovascular pathology in 5 (6%). Mean cross-clamp time was 55 ± 14 minutes, and cardiopulmonary bypass time was 81 ± 21 minutes. Concomitant procedures included a Maze in 12 patients (15%). Postoperative morbidity included permanent stroke in 2 (2.5%), respiratory failure in 9 (11%), and pacemaker implantation in 2 (2.5%). Hospital mortality was 1.3% (1 of 79). Cumulative survival at 6, 12, and 36 months was 88.5%, 87.1% and 72.7%, respectively. Conclusions Our existing patient evaluation process accurately defines an acceptable risk cohort for conventional AVR. The late mortality rate reflects the advanced age and comorbidities of this cohort. The data suggest that overzealous widening of TAVI inclusion criteria may be inappropriate.

Background Severe mitral regurgitation secondary to papillary muscle rupture is an infrequent but catastrophic complication after myocardial infarction. Without surgical treatment, mortality can reach 80%, but surgical treatment also carries substantial perioperative morbidity and mortality. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 28 patients who underwent mitral valve surgery for ischemic papillary muscle rupture. Results The 30-day mortality rate was 39.3% (11 of 28). There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics, and concomitant coronary artery bypass (CABG) was performed in 66.7% of the survivor group and in 61.5% of the nonsurvivor group (p = 0.245). Mortality predictors included low cardiac output (p = 0.05), renal failure (p = 0.005), and implementation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy (p = 0.005). The time between myocardial infarction and surgery showed no significant effects on survival. Conclusions Papillary muscle rupture with severe mitral regurgitation carries a high operative mortality. Additional CABG does not influence the acute postoperative course. Postoperative development of low cardiac output with a need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy and renal failure with hemodialysis substantially reduces survival.

The risk of reoperation and loss of a second native valve is a major drawback of the Ross operation. The study aim was to examine the indications, pathologies, procedures, and outcomes for reoperation after the Ross procedure, emphasizing the potential for autograft salvage.Between 1994 and 2009, a total of 60 reoperations was performed on 55 patients who previously had undergone the Ross procedure. Attention was focused on 49 patients with first-time reoperation for autograft or allograft-related problems (37 males, 12 females; mean age 49 +/- 14 years). At the original operation, 23% of patients had a history of endocarditis, 14% a previous valve replacement, and 61% a bicuspid aortic valve. The original implant technique was full root in 88% of cases, inclusion root in 2%, or subcoronary implant in 9%. Autograft and aortic indications (n = 38) included root and ascending aorta dilatation (53%), structural valve cusp deterioration (32%), endocarditis (11%), and technical failure (5%). Regurgitation was moderate to severe in 97% of cases. Pulmonary indications (n = 21) were allograft degeneration (71%), endocarditis (10%), and Ross reversal (19%). The autograft and aorta reoperation procedures (n = 38) included ascending aorta replacement (n = 2), David reimplantation (n = 1), valve repair (n = 2), valve replacement (n = 13), and root replacement (n = 22). Pulmonary valve replacements (n = 21) were with pulmonary allograft in 12 cases and autograft (Ross reversal) in nine. Twelve of the pulmonary valve replacement group, including the Ross reversals, were combined aortic and pulmonary. During the last 13 reoperations, only two autografts were lost, both of which were potentially salvageable.No intraoperative adverse events or postoperative deaths occurred, and minimal morbidity was observed. During the follow up period there was one death, while two patients required reoperation (one for endocarditis and one non-valve-related).Reoperation at up to 12 years after a Ross procedure was most commonly required for autograft failure, and less often for allograft degeneration. Of reassurance to prospective Ross patient was the finding that reoperation can be performed safely, and that the autograft can be salvaged either by repair and valve-sparing reimplantation in the aortic position, or by Ross reversal.

To the Editor: We read with interest the recent article by Clavel et al.1 With respect to their findings, we have the following comments and questions. First, transaortic valve implantation (TAVI) relieves valvular and subvalvular obstruction, whereas surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) relieves only valvular obstruction, which may explain the observed differences. We liberally use subaortic myectomy as an adjunct to SAVR for treating subvalvular obstruction and aortic root enlargement for valvular obstruction to left ventricular ejection; perhaps this is the fair comparison with TAVI. Second, stentless aortic valve replacement provides superior reduction of transvalvular gradients.2 It is notable that none of the surgically implanted valves were stentless valves. The authors have previously shown that …

With great interest, we read the letter from Dr Michael Poullis concerning our recently published article on the adverse effects of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) malposition and anatomic-to-device mismatch on visceral organ function.1 First, with respect to IABP position, we defined the correct proximal position of the tip as 1 to 2 cm distal to the left subclavian artery origin because this position is generally taught, and it is recommended by the IABP manufacturers. Although there may be a rationale for an alternative position, no scientific data exist to support …

Severe tricuspid valve insufficiency causes right atrial dilatation, venous congestion, and reduced atrial contractility, and may eventually lead to right heart failure. We report a case of a patient with severe tricuspid valve insufficiency, right heart failure, and a massively dilated right atrium. The enormously dilated atrium compressed the right lung, resulting in a radiographic appearance of a mediastinal tumor. Tricuspid valve repair and reduction of the right atrium was performed. Follow up examination revealed improvement of liver function, reduced peripheral edema and improved New York Heart Association (NYHA) class. The reduction of the atrial size and repair of the tricuspid valve resulted in a restoration of the conduit and reservoir function of the right atrium. Given the chronicity of the disease process and the long-standing atrial fibrillation, there is no impact of this operation on right atrial contraction. In combination with the reconstruction of the tricuspid valve, the reduction atrioplasty will reduce the risk of thrombembolic events and preserve the right ventricular function.

Lung hernia following minimally invasive mitral valve surgery is an uncommen entity. We report the case of a male patient who developed a lung hernia as a sequela to limited access mitral valve surgery. Two months after discharge, the patient presented with a bulge in the region of the lateral thoracotomy related to respiration which could be provoked by a Valsalva maneuver. In the night following admission the patient had acute cardiovascular decompensation with worsening dyspnea, pallor and hypotension. The patient was quickly transferred to the ICU, where a chest X-ray revealed the presence of a large hemothorax with compression of the entire right lung. We transferred the patient to the operation room, evacuated the hemothorax and reconstructed the 15-cm long and 3-cm wide dehiscence using a GoreTex patch adapted in a special technique.

The saphenous vein remains the most commonly used conduit in coronary artery bypass surgery. Vein harvest is a critical component with significant morbidity associated with leg wounds from open technique. Occurring complications are hematoma, postoperative pain, skin changes, neuropathy, and septic or nonseptic wound complications. Within the context of a recent case, we present our approach to postsaphenectomy wound management.