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Background: This study compared perioperative outcomes and long-term survival of saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) versus left internal thoracic artery (LITA) to left anterior descending artery (LAD) in isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Methods: In this retrospective, single-centre study, we included patients with primary isolated CABG from January 2001 to July 2022. Baseline demographics were compared between SVG-LAD and LITA-LAD. Univariable and multivariable regressions were performed for predictors of in-hospital death. Propensity score matching was performed for LITA-LAD vs. SVG-LAD. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were generated for comparison of survival. Cox proportional hazards model was used for predictors of survival. Results: A total of 8237 patients (1602 SVG-LAD/6725 LITA-LAD) were included. Median age was 67.9 years (LITA-LAD; 67.1 years vs. SVG-LAD; 71.7 years, p < 0.01). A total of 1270 pairs of SVG-LAD were propensity-matched to LITA-LAD. In matched cohorts, in-hospital mortality (0.8% vs. 1.6%, LITA-LAD and SVG-LAD respectively; p = 0.07), deep sternal wound infection, new cerebrovascular events, renal replacement therapy and hospital stay >30 days were similar. SVG-LAD did not adversely affect in-hospital mortality (OR; 2.03, CI; 0.91, 4.54, p = 0.08). Median long-term survival was similar between the groups (13.7 years vs. 13.1 years for LITA-LAD and SVG-LAD respectively, log rank p < 0.31). SVG-LAD was not a predictor of adverse long-term survival. (HR; 1.06, 95% CI; 0.92, 1.22, p < 0.40). Long-term survival was better with LITA-LAD for LVEF <30% (log rank p < 0.03). Conclusions: There was no difference in the propensity-matched cohorts for use of SVG vs. LITA to the LAD. Further contemporary long-term studies are needed for substantiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES To compare the independent and combined effects of anaemia and red blood cell transfusion on late survival after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 5243 consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated coronary artery bypass grafting, performed from 2000 to 2015, in a Portuguese Academic Hospital. We identified 1649 patients with preoperative anaemia (A+) and 1422 patients who received a perioperative transfusion (T+)—the 4 possible combinations allowed for the creation of 4 subgroups (A−/T−, A−/T+, A+/T− and A+/T+). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 10 years. We employed inverse probability weighting to control for confounding variables. RESULTS Thirty-one percent of the patients had preoperative anaemia, and 27.0% had at least one packed red blood cell transfusion. Inverse probability weighting was effective in eliminating differences in all significant baseline characteristics. The primary endpoint of all-cause mortality at 10 years occurred in 568 patients (20.5%) in the A−/T− group, as compared with 204 (24.4%) in the A−/T+ group (hazard ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.00 to 1.31; P  = 0.053), 358 (33.8%) in the A+/T− group (hazard ratio, 1.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.38 to 1.71; P  < 0.001), 254 (43.6%) in the A+/T+ group (hazard ratio, 2.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.97 to 2.56; P  < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This longitudinal, population-level study emphasizes the adverse long-term outcomes of preoperative anaemia and perioperative red blood cell transfusion. It stresses the importance of an evidence-based, multimodal and multidisciplinary approach to conserving blood resources and optimizing outcomes in patients at high risk for transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current recommendation for bioprosthetic valve replacement in severe aortic stenosis (AS) is either surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We evaluated the performance of a machine learning-based predictive model using existing periprocedural variables for valve replacement modality selection. We analyzed 415 patients in a retrospective longitudinal cohort of adult patients undergoing aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis. A total of 72 clinical variables including demographic data, patient comorbidities, and preoperative investigation characteristics were collected on each patient. We fit models using LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) and decision tree techniques. The accuracy of the prediction on confusion matrix was used to assess model performance. The most predictive independent variable for valve selection by LASSO regression was frailty score. Variables that predict SAVR consisted of low frailty score (value at or below 2) and complex coronary artery diseases (DVD/TVD). Variables that predicted TAVR consisted of high frailty score (at or greater than 6), history of coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), calcified aorta, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The LASSO-generated predictive model achieved 98% accuracy on valve replacement modality selection from testing data. The decision tree model consisted of fewer important parameters, namely frailty score, CKD, STS score, age, and history of PCI. The most predictive factor for valve replacement selection was frailty score. The predictive models using different statistical learning methods achieved an excellent concordance predictive accuracy rate of between 93% and 98%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Reverse septal movement (RSM) often occurs after cardiac surgery, consisting of a paradoxical systolic movement of the interventricular septum. In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate possible determinants of RSM after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). (2) Methods: Patients who underwent CABG with on- or off-pump techniques at our center from March 2019 to October 2021 were retrospectively included. Exclusion criteria were: exposure to combined procedures (e.g., valve implantation), prior cardiac surgery, intraventricular conduction delays, and previous pacemaker implantation. Laboratory tests and echocardiographic and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) duration data were collected. (3) Results: We enrolled 138 patients, of whom 32 (23.2%) underwent off-pump CABG. Approximately 89.1% of the population was male; the mean age was 70 ± 11 years. There was no difference in RSM incidence in patients undergoing the off-pump and on-pump techniques (71.9% vs. 62.3%; p = 0.319). In patients undergoing on-pump surgery, the incidence of RSM was slightly higher in longer CPB procedures (OR 1.02 (1.00–1.03) p = 0.012), and clamping aortic time was also greater (OR 1.02 (1.00–1.03) p = 0.042). (4) Conclusions: CPB length seems to be correlated with a higher RSM appearance. This better knowledge of RSM reinforces the safety of CABG and its neutral effect on global biventricular function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) have been evaluated for their ability to improve cardiac repair and benefit patients with severe ischemic heart disease and heart failure. In our single-center trial in 2006–2011 we demonstrated the safety and efficacy of BMMCs injected intramyocardially in conjunction with coronary artery bypass surgery. The effect persisted in the follow-up study 5 years later. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of BMMC therapy beyond 10 years. A total of 18 patients (46%) died during over 10-years follow-up and 21 were contacted for participation. Late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) and clinical evaluation were performed on 14 patients, seven from each group. CMRIs from the study baseline, 1-year and 5-years follow-ups were re-analyzed to enable comparison. The CMRI demonstrated a 2.1-fold larger reduction in the mass of late gadolinium enhancement values between the preoperative and the over 10-years follow-up, suggesting less scar or fibrosis after BMMC treatment (− 15.1%; 95% CI − 23 to − 6.7% vs. − 7.3%; 95% CI − 16 to 4.5%, p = 0.039), compared to placebo. No differences in mortality or morbidity were observed. Intramyocardially injected BMMCs may exert long-term benefits in patients with ischemic heart failure. This deserves further evaluation in patients who have received BMMCs in international clinical studies over two decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in patients with an ejection fraction (EF) ≤ 35% predisposes them to higher complications and mortality risks. Given the usually compromised status of other end organs in low EF patients, ONCAB, involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and aortic cross-clamping, might intuitively pose more complications than OPCAB. Objective. To explore short- and long-term outcomes between ONCAB and OPCAB procedures in patients with EF ≤ 35%. Methods. A retrospective and observational analysis was conducted in 196 patients with EF ≤ 35% who underwent ONCAB (n = 58) or OPCAB (n = 138) procedures at a single center between January 2015 and May 2023. Baseline characteristics were well matched using the stabilized inverse probability treatment weighted matching technique. Results. After matching, ONCAB and OPCAB had comparable 30-day mortality and 30-day cardiac mortality. OPCAB exhibited significantly shorter length of hospital and ICU stays, with a trend towards more discharges to home. Rates of composite complication and its individual components such as acute kidney injury, reoperation bleeding, stroke, pneumonia, GI disease, and atrial fibrillation were similar between the two groups. Rates of sepsis, liver dysfunction, and blood transfusion were significantly lower in the OPCAB group. As assessed by EF and LVDD, neither procedure showed superiority in improving cardiac function. Median follow-up time was 4.9 (interquartile range: 2.1–7.2) years. After matching, long-term overall survival (1, 3, 7 years) and cardiac mortality rates were comparable between OPCAB and ONCAB. Cumulative rates of cardiac arrest, heart failure, myocardial infarction (MI), atrial fibrillation (Afib), renal disease, and readmission (overall and cardiac) at 7 years were similar. Conclusion. This study demonstrates comparable short-term and long-term outcomes between ONCAB and OPCAB in patients with reduced EF, with OPCAB favoring faster recovery. OPCAB appears as a safer and equally effective option for low EF CABG patients. Larger samples and longer follow-ups are needed for conclusive clinical evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different risk factors affect the intensive care unit (ICU) stay after cardiac surgery. This study aimed to evaluate these risk factors. Patients and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical, operative, and outcome data from 1070 patients (mean age: 59 ± 9.8 years) who underwent isolated coronary bypass grafting CABG surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. The outcome variable was prolonged length of stay LOS in the CICU stay (> 3 nights after CABG). Results: Univariate predictors of prolonged ICU stays included a left atrial diameter of > 4 cm (P < 0.001),chronic obstructive airway disease COPD (P = 0.005), hypertension (P = 0.006), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.009), having coronary stents (P = 0.006), B-blockers use before surgery (either because the surgery was done on urgent or emergency basis or the patients have contraindication to B-blockers use) (P = 0.005), receiving blood transfusion during surgery (P = 0.001), post-operative acute kidney injury (AKI) (P < 0.001), prolonged inotropic support of > 12 h (P < 0.001), and ventilation support of > 12 h (P < 0.001), post-operative sepsis or pneumonia (P < 0.001), post-operative stroke/TIA (P = 0.001), sternal wound infection (P = 0.002), and postoperative atrial fibrillation POAF (P < 0.001). Multivariate regression revealed that patients with anleft atrial LA diameter of > 4 cm (AOR 2.531, P = 0.003), patients who did not take B-blockers before surgery (AOR 1.1 P = 0.011), patients on ventilation support > 12 h (AOR 3.931, P = < 0.001), patients who developed pneumonia (AOR 20.363, P = < 0.001), and patients who developed post-operative atrial fibrillation (AOR 30.683, P = < 0.001) were more likely to stay in the ICU for > 3 nights after CABG. Conclusion: Our results showed that LA diameter > 4 cm, patients who did not take beta-blockers before surgery, on ventilation support > 12 h, developed pneumonia post-operatively, and developed POAF were more likely to have stays lasting > 3 nights. Efforts should be directed toward reducing these postoperative complications to shorten the duration of CICU stay, thereby reducing costs and improving bed availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess risk factors for mortality in cardiac surgical adult patients. Methods: One thousand hundred adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass, aged 20 to 60 years of either gender were selected and parameters such as clinical profile, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, preoperative condition, type of operations performed and risk factors, etc. were recorded. Results: There were 620 males and 480 females. Age groups 20-30 years had 50, 30-40 years had 250, 40-50 years had 520, and 50-60 years had 280 patients. BMI showed healthy 660, overweight 370, obese 50, and severe obese 20 subjects. Preoperative conditions found were diabetes in 230, hypertension in 140, extracardiac arteriopathy in 60, intermittent claudication in 80, chronic renal insufficiency in 50, and chronic pulmonary disease in 20 patients. Operations performed were elective coronary artery bypass surgery in 600, aortic valve surgery in 250, mitral repair or replacement in 210, and ASD closure in 40. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Out of 1100 patients, 30 (2.7%) died. Common risk factors were advancing age, female gender, extracardiac arteriopathy, chronic pulmonary disease, neurological dysfunction, serum creatinine >2.0, LVEF <30% and systolic pulmonary pressure > 60. Conclusion: Several risk factors contribute to cardiac surgical mortality such as systolic pulmonary pressure > 60, increasing age, female gender, extracardiac arteriopathy, chronic pulmonary disease, neurological dysfunction, serum creatinine >2.0, LVEF <30%. Using this data, a risk stratification method for estimating hospital mortality and evaluating the quality of care can be created. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: On-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is one of the most common revascularization surgical therapies for coronary artery disease (CAD). However, owing to the use of cardiopulmonary bypass ("on-pump"), the body develops systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which leads to the risk of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the perioperative outcomes of patients who underwent on-pump CABG surgery using the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII). Patients and methods: This single-center retrospective study used secondary data from patients' electronic medical records and medical records archives at the National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, who underwent on-pump CABG from January 2019 to December 2022. A total of 1056 on-pump CABG procedures were performed after exclusion. Lymphocyte, segmental neutrophil, and platelet counts from the preoperative data were used to calculate the SII values. An SII cutoff value of 528.715 × 103/mm3 divided the patients into two groups. Results: The SII value of 1056 patients were calculated, among which 490 (46%) patients had a preoperative SII value of ≥ 528.715 × 103/mm3. Multivariate analysis showed that a high SII significantly prolonged the duration of surgery (OR 1.005, 95% CI 1.003– 1.006) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (OR 1.007, 95% CI 1.005– 1.009). High SII values significantly predicted prolonged mechanical ventilation (OR 6.154, 95% CL 3.938– 9.617), intensive care unit (ICU) stay (OR 6.332, 95% CL 4.232– 9.474), and hospital stay (OR 3.517, 95% CL 2.711– 4.562). Regarding other perioperative outcomes, a high SII significantly predicted the risk of postoperative atrial AF, cardiac arrest, acute myocardial infarction, and mortality. Conclusion: A high preoperative SII value can predict morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing on-pump CABG surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the complications and mortality after noncardiac surgeries in patients who underwent previous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: We used insurance data and identified patients aged ≥ 20 years undergoing noncardiac surgeries between 2010 and 2017 in Taiwan. Based on propensity-score matching, we selected an adequate number of patients with a previous history of CABG (within preoperative 24 months) and those who did not have a CABG history, and both groups had balanced baseline characteristics. The association of CABG with the risk of postoperative complications and mortality was estimated (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]) using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: The matching procedure generated 2327 matched pairs for analyses. CABG significantly increased the risks of 30-day in-hospital mortality (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.36– 3.84), postoperative pneumonia (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.12– 1.98), sepsis (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.17– 1.89), stroke (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.17– 1.99) and admission to the intensive care unit (OR, 1.75, 95% CI 1.50– 2.05). The findings were generally consistent across most of the evaluated subgroups. A noncardiac surgery performed within 1 month after CABG was associated with the highest risk for adverse events, which declined over time. Conclusion: Prior history of CABG was associated with postoperative pneumonia, sepsis, stroke, and mortality in patients undergoing noncardiac surgeries. Although we raised the possibility regarding deferral of non-critical elective noncardiac surgeries among patients had recent CABG when considering the risks, critical or emergency surgeries were not in the consideration of delay surgery, especially cancer surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionChronic depression and anxiety can be a risk factor for coronary aArtery bypass grafting (CABG) and is an emerging factor after coronary artery disease when the patient is admitted to the hospital and after surgery. We aimed to assess the effect of Escitalopram in treating mild to moderate depressive disorder and improving the quality of life in patients undergoing CABG.MethodsIn this randomized clinical trial, 50 patients undergoing CABG referred to Tehran Heart Hospital from January 2021 to May 2021 and were suffering from mild to moderate depression were randomly assigned to one of the two groups of Escitalopram or placebo. The level of depression was assessed based on Beck’s depression inventory and the quality-of-life status and its domains were assessed based on the SF-36 questionnaire in 2 groups. Measurements were obtained at baseline and at four and eight weeks after treatment. Chi-square, Fisher’s exact, paired, and Wilcoxon tests or ANOVA were used as appropriate.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the level of depression between the two study groups at baseline (P=0.312). There was no significant difference between the quality of life and its domains in the two study groups at baseline (P=0.607). However, the most important effect of Escitalopram was reducing depression scores in the intervention group at weeks 4 and 8 after treatment compared to the placebo group (P0.05).ConclusionEscitalopram was effective in treating mild to moderate depressive disorder and improving quality of life in patients undergoing CABG.Clinical trial registrationhttps://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/, identifier IRCT20140126016374N2.

Objective: The Evaluation of Transit-Time Flow in Coronary Artery Disease Surgery (EFCAD) registry aims to assess the influence of transit-time flow measurement (TTFM) in daily practice. Methods: EFCAD is a prospective, multicenter study involving 9 centers performing TTFM during isolated coronary artery bypass grafting. Primary end point was occurrence and risk factors of major adverse cardiac events, including perioperative myocardial infarction, urgent postoperative coronary angiogram and/or revascularization, and hospital mortality. Secondary end points were rate of graft revision during surgery and factors affecting graft flow. We respected the limit values set by the experts: mean graft flow >15 mL/minute and pulsatility index ≤5. Results: Between May 2017 and March 2021, 1616 patients were registered in the EFCAD database. After review, 1414 were included for analyses. Of those, 1176 were eligible for primary end point analysis. Graft revision, mainly due to inadequate TTFM values, occurred in 2% (29 patients). The primary end point occurred in 46 (3.9%) patients, and it was related with left anterior descending artery graft flow ≤15 mL/minute (odds ratio, 3.64; P 0 indicates higher flow), and graft origin (aorta vs Y, β = 9.2; in situ left internal thoracic artery vs Y, β = 3.2; in situ right internal thoracic artery vs Y, β = 2.3; P

The article discusses the debate surrounding whether women receive inferior care compared to men in cardiovascular medicine, specifically in coronary artery surgery. It is suggested that women may be diagnosed later, have more comorbidities, and be older at the time of surgery, which could contribute to differences in outcomes. A study in Australia and New Zealand found that multiple arterial coronary artery bypass grafting (MAG) was associated with better long-term survival in both men and women, but women had less access to MAG. The article also explores the concept of a "challenge-skill balance" in cardiac surgery, suggesting that women may present a higher challenge level, requiring a higher skill level from the surgical team. The study concludes that the skill of the surgical team should be focused on meeting the challenge of detecting coronary disease in women earlier and reducing peri-procedural risk. [Extracted from the article]

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Anomalous aortic origin of the right coronary artery (RCA) is a rare anatomic anomaly that is present in ~1% of the general population, and is often discovered incidentally through imaging performed for another purpose. Despite being an uncommon phenomenon, aberrant right coronary arterial origins can have devastating manifestations in half of affected patients. These include myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, heart failure, syncope, and sudden cardiac death secondary to ischemia of the cardiac tissue. This report describes a case of a 48-year-old female patient that was initially found to have ST-elevation myocardial infarction. During cardiac catheterization, the patient was discovered to have a type A aortic dissection. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted, and she was immediately transferred to the operating room for repair. During the procedure, an anomalous RCA was discovered with its origin in the dissected tissue, which was initially ligated and then bypassed using greater saphenous vein graft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery off-pump coronary artery bypass (MICSOPCAB) has become increasingly prevalent, with devices like the heart positioner aiding in surgical precision. However, rare complications such as epicardial hematoma can occur. Here, we present a case of a 75-year-old man undergoing MICSOPCAB who developed an epicardial hematoma due to the heart positioner. The hematoma was successfully repaired intraoperatively with direct suturing and large felts. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, highlighting the importance of vigilant monitoring and prompt management of such complications. This case underscores the need for careful attention during the use of cardiac positioners to minimize adverse events and ensure favorable patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 73-year-old male presented with angina symptoms and was diagnosed with three-vessel coronary artery disease by use of computed tomography angiography and coronary angiography. This diagnosis necessitated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. A custom made AI-driven algorithm was used to generate a patient-specific three-dimensional coronary artery model from computed tomography angiography imaging data. This framework enabled precise segmentation and reconstruction of the coronary vasculature, yielding an accurate anatomical and pathological representation. Subsequently, this generated model was integrated into a novel extended reality tool for preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance in CABG surgery. Both preoperatively and intraoperatively, the tool augmented spatial orientation and facilitated precise stenosis localization, thereby enhancing the surgeon's operative proficiency. This case report underscores the utility of advanced extended reality tools in cardiovascular surgery, emphasizing their pivotal role in refining surgical planning and execution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report details the management of a 79-year-old man who developed massive postoperative pneumothorax following redo coronary artery bypass grafting due to severe lung adhesions. We successfully treated the patient using veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without femoral cannulation, allowing for early rehabilitation initiation. Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a reasonable option for cases of severe respiratory failure due to pneumothorax with lung destruction caused by re-sternotomy during re-do cardiac surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Heart rhythm disorder is one of the most common problems after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Various factors, such as the history of sleep apnoea before the operation, may aggravate the occurrence of this disorder. The present study was conducted to determine the relationship between sleep apnoea before surgery and heart rhythm disorder after surgery in patients undergoing coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in 2019. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 192 patients who were selected by sequential sampling. The research tool included demographic information, a checklist of heart rhythm disorders, and the Berlin sleep apnoea questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Mann–Whitney's U-test, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 71.35% of the samples were male, and the mean age of the participants was 57.8 ± 7.5 years. Also, 46.0% of the samples had sleep pane and 21.35% had rhythm disorder. The most frequent heart rhythm disorder in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea was atrial fibrillation. There was a significant relationship between the occurrence of rhythm disorder and a history of smoking (P = 0.021), and the regression model showed that a history of smoking is the only variable related to the occurrence of rhythm disorder after coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (P = 0.005, CI 95%: 6.566–1.386, OR = 3.017). Conclusions: The results showed that there is no statistically significant relationship between sleep apnea and rhythm disorder after coronary artery bypass surgery. Key messages: What is already known on this subject?: Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea is one of the symptoms that is observed in many patients with coronary artery disease, but contradictory results have been found, a definite conclusion regarding the relationship between this disorder and some complications after it, such as the occurrence of rhythm disorder before and After surgery, it made coronary artery grafting impossible, so the necessity of conducting more studies in this matter has been emphasized. What might this study add?: The results showed that there is no statistically significant relationship between sleep apnea and the occurrence of rhythm disorder after coronary artery bypass surgery, and the only related and predictive variable with the occurrence of rhythm disorder after coronary artery bypass surgery was the history of smoking. How might this impact on clinical practice?: Considering the increasing number of coronary patients requiring coronary artery bypass surgery and occupying hospital beds, determining the predictors of complications after surgery can help reduce long hospital stays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) surgery offers an effective option for coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with the avoidance of median sternotomy and fast postoperative recovery. However, MIDCAB is still associated with significant postoperative pain which may lead to delayed recovery. The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a superficial fascial plane block. There have not been randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of ESPB on analgesia and patient recovery following MIDCAB surgery. We therefore designed a double-blind prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial, aiming to prove the hypothesis that ESPB reduces postoperative pain scores in patients undergoing MIDCAB surgery. Methods: The study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Ethical Review Committee of Peking University People's Hospital. Sixty adult patients of either sex scheduled for MIDCAB surgery under general anesthesia (GA) will be included. Patients will be randomly allocated to receive either a preoperative single-shot ESPB with 30 mL of ropivacaine 0.5% (ESPB group) or normal saline 0.9% (control group). The primary outcomes are the difference between the two groups in numeric rating scale (NRS) scores at rest at different time points (6, 12, 18, 24, 48 h) after surgery. The secondary outcomes include NRS scores on deep inspiration within 48 h, postoperative hydromorphone consumption, and quality of patient recovery at 24 h and 48 h, using the Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scale. The other outcomes include intraoperative fentanyl requirements, the need for additional postoperative rescue analgesics, time to tracheal extubation and chest tube removal after surgery, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), hospital discharge time, and 30-day mortality. Adverse events will be also evaluated. Discussion: This is a novel randomized controlled study evaluating a preoperative ultrasound-guided single-shot unilateral ESPB on analgesia and quality of patient recovery in MIDCAB surgery. The results of this study will characterize the degree of acute postoperative pain and clinical outcomes following MIDCAB. Our study may help optimizing analgesia regimen selection and improving patient comfort in this specific population. Trial registration: The study was prospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (trial identifier: ChiCTR2100052810). Date of registration: November 5, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present study was to analyze retrospectively the results of patients who underwent early-staged, i.e., within 24–48 h, carotid artery stenting (e-s CAS) before coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: Between December 2014 and December 2022, 1046 consecutive patients underwent CABG; 31 of these patients (3%) were subjected to e-s CAS prior to CABG (e-s CAS + CABG group). Preoperative and intraoperative variables and early and mid-term results of the e-s CAS + CABG group were compared with those of patients who underwent isolated CABG (CABG group). Results: As compared with the CABG group, the e-s CAS + CABG group showed a worse clinical risk profile due to higher Euroscore-2 values and incidence of obstructive pulmonary disease and bilateral carotid artery and peripheral artery diseases (p < 0.05, for all comparisons). The combined end point of operative mortality, periprocedural myocardial infarction, and stroke was 3.2% (0%/0%/3.2%) in the e-s CAS + CABG group vs. 5.9% (2.2%/2.8%/0.9%) in the CABG group (p > 0.5, for all measurements). At 5 years, actuarial survival was 74% ± 16% in the e-s CAS + CABG group vs. 93% ± 4.0% in the CABG group, freedom from cardiac death was 100% vs. 98% ± 1.0% (p = 0.6), and freedom from MACCEs was 85% ± 15% vs. 97% ± 2.5% (p > 0.1, for all comparisons). Independent predictors of all-causes death were advanced age at the operation (p < 0.0001), a lower value for left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.05), and a high Euroscore-2 (p = 0.04). Conclusions: CABG preceded by e-s CAS appears to be associated with satisfactory early outcomes while limiting the risk of myocardial infarction to a very short time interval between the two procedures. Freedom from late all-causes death, cardiac death, and MACCEs were comparable and equally satisfactory, underscoring the positive protective effects of CAS and CABG on the carotid and coronary territories over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different causes have been described for secondary lymphedema as reported in this article. A 75-year-old man was diagnosed with lymphedema about one decade after saphenous harvesting for coronary artery bypass surgery. It took two years for him to find out his diagnosis and receive the proper treatment. After standard complete decongestive therapy, his volume and pain decreased and his quality of life was improved, especially its physical aspect. It is important to recognize the possibility of lymphedema development after saphenous harvesting among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery to prevent significant disturbance of quality of life with timely management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: In this prospective observational study, our goal was to investigate the relationship between serum levels of oxidative stress (OS) parameters and regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) in addition to evaluating postoperative clinical outcomes among patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Materials and methods: This study comprised 64 adult patients undergoing elective CABG (on-pump [n = 48] and off-pump [n = 16]) procedures. Serum OS levels and rSO2 values were measured intraoperatively at three specific time points: T1 (after induction), T2 (15 min before aortic cross-clamp removal or the final distal anastomosis), and T3 (15 min after aortic cross-clamp removal or the last distal anastomosis). Results: Serum OS and lactate values demonstrated higher levels at T2 and T3 (p < 0.001), while rSO2 values were lower at T2 (p = 0.024) in the on-pump CABG group compared to the off-pump CABG group. The rSO2 values at T2 exhibited a negative correlation with OS parameters, lactate levels at T2 and T3, aortic clamp time, postoperative mechanical ventilation time, and intensive care unit stay length. In the multivariate linear regression analysis (R2 = 0.181, p = 0.001), lactate values at T2 emerged as the sole factor affecting the OS index at T2 (t = 2.843, p = 0.006). Conclusion: In our study, we observed elevated OS values and relatively low rSO2 values during on-pump CABG procedures, with rSO2 showing an association with increased OS parameters. Close monitoring of the OS response level and rSO2 during CABG could potentially enhance postoperative clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is the most commonly performed and studied major cardiac operation worldwide. An understanding of the evolution of CABG, including the early days of cardiac surgery, the first bypass operation, continuous improvements in techniques, and streamlining of the operation, is important to inform current trends and future innovations. This article will examine how CABG evolved (from techniques to conduits), describe current trends in the field, and explore what lies on the horizon for the future of CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac involvement (CI) is rare in Behçet syndrome (BS), but the important point is that CI may be the first manifestation of the disease. The presence of CI worsens the prognosis of BS, so early diagnosis and early initiation of immunosuppressive treatment (IST) are vital. Coronary aneurysm may develop spontaneously in these patients, or any vascular intervention may cause aneurysm with a pathergy‐like reaction. The risk of restenosis is high after percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass surgery applied without IST. Therefore, it should be kept in mind that IST constitutes the main step of treatment. Herein, we present a young male diagnosed with BS after acute coronary syndrome caused by coronary artery aneurysms and thrombosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the establishment of a minimally invasive coronary artery bypass program at an academic center. The program follows a stepwise approach, starting with off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB), then progressing to minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB), and finally to multivessel (MV-) MIDCAB surgery. The study analyzed the records of 147 patients who underwent these procedures and examined factors such as patient demographics, procedural parameters, and postoperative complications. The results showed that the stepwise approach was feasible and safe, with good early outcomes. The authors recommend this gradual approach for establishing a minimally invasive coronary bypass program. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the impact of minimally invasive coronary artery bypass surgery (MICS CABG) as an alternative to traditional surgery. The study analyzes the short-term outcomes of this approach for single- and multi-vessel diseases. The results show that MICS CABG is a safe procedure with low mortality and morbidity rates. The study also found low rates of reoperations and graft-related complications. These findings support the use of MICS CABG as a standard of care in coronary surgery. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "Coronary Plaque Quantification Using a New CT Imaging Software¿A Feasibility Study," discusses the potential benefits of using Cinematic Rendering (CR) visualization in detecting nonobstructive coronary plaques. The study included 26 patients who underwent cardiac surgery and had previous cardiac CT scans. The results showed that CR visualization correlated well with intraoperative palpation in quantifying the presence of plaques. The authors suggest that CR has the potential to improve the planning of coronary artery bypass surgery by allowing for easier interpretation of plaque localization. Further research will be conducted to validate these findings. [Extracted from the article]

This article, published in the journal Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgeon, examines the risk of sternal wound infection (SWI) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with bilateral internal thoracic artery bypass grafting. The study analyzed 1774 patients who underwent CABG between 2020 and 2023, and after propensity score matching, 591 patients were identified. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the incidence of SWI between patients who received bilateral internal mammary artery (BIMA) grafts and those who received non-BIMA grafts. Risk factors for SWI were identified as female gender, diabetes, peripheral arterial vascular disease, postoperative delirium, and long ICU stay. The study concludes that harvesting bilateral internal mammary arteries in a skeletonized technique for CABG does not carry an additional risk of sternal infection compared to non-BIMA CABG patients. [Extracted from the article]

Background Deviations from usual coronary artery anatomy are well documented. The left circumflex artery (LCx) arising from the pulmonary artery is an example of one such deviation which is rarely seen. We present the case of a 26-year-old male with this coronary artery distribution presenting with an episode of ventricular flutter with late gadolinium enhancement and pluri-morphological ventricular arrhythmias. Case summary A 26-year-old male with a history of cardiac surgery presented to his local hospital with an episode of symptomatic broad-complex tachycardia (BCT). It failed to revert to sinus rhythm following intravenous beta-blockers and amiodarone and required external cardioversion. Subsequently, the patient developed a aspiration pneumonia requiring ICU admission, after which he was transferred to our institute for ongoing cardiac management. Cardiac computed tomography CTA and coronary angiography revealed that the LCx was found to originate from the pulmonary artery. He underwent insertion of a subcutaneous pacemaker and was subsequently discharged. Despite the potential for steal syndrome of viable coronary territories. Multidisciplinary team discussion determined him to be fit for conservative management and not for surgical correction of his anomalous coronary artery anatomy. Discussion Aberrant coronary artery anatomy can lead to diverse outcomes for patients in terms of both morbidity and mortality. The need for surgery in these situations varies on a case-by-case basis and little research exists to guide decision-making for healthcare professionals. As such there is a need for further study both to guide treatment and to ensure high-quality outcomes for patients with this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung transplantation can greatly improve quality of life and extend survival in those with end-stage lung disease. In order to derive the maximal benefit from such a procedure, patients must be carefully selected and be otherwise healthy enough to survive a high-risk surgery and sometimes prolonged immunosuppressive therapy following surgery. Patients therefore must be critically assessed prior to being listed for transplantation with close attention paid towards assessment of cardiovascular health and operative risk. One of the biggest dictators of this is coronary artery disease. In this review article, we discuss the assessment and management of coronary artery disease in the potential lung transplant candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although coronary artery disease is a well recognized clinical entity and very common in India, there is paucity of literature on the patients undergoing surgical revascularization in the form of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) at a young age (<40 years). The aim of this study is to analyze the details of patients with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD) who underwent CABG at a tertiary care cardiac center in India. A retrospective observational study was conducted for the present study. All patients aged <40 years with Premature Coronary artery disease (PCAD) were registered in the PCAD Registry at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bangalore. The electronic database of case records of all patients with PCAD who underwent CABG at Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, between April 2018 and March 2019 was analyzed. Patients were selected based on the database of PCAD registry at our institute under CTRI regulation of India (registration number CTRI/2018/03/012544), All patients were diagnosed with Coronary angiogram (CAG) and required further treatment in the form of CABG. Binary logistic regression was used to test the hypothesis (n= 100) cases, out of which LIMA was grafted in 84 cases (n=84), (odd ratio 3.55); of which LIMA to LAD was grafted in 81 cases (n=81); LIMA to RIMA –OM1 was grafted in 2 cases (n=2), and LIMA - Radial - Y was grafted in 1 case (n=1). Off - pump CABG (OPCAB) was done in 79 cases (79%) and the remaining cases were operated On - pump. Most common conduits that were used for grafting in CABG were LIMA (84%); SVG (82%), RIMA (9%) and radial artery (1%). Mean Ejection Fraction was 51.28%, with Standard Deviation (SD) of 5.80. Carotid artery stenosis (> 50%narrowing of the internal carotid artery) was seen in 11% of the cases. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) was seen in 4% of cases (odds 1.18). Mortality rate (CFR) was negatively correlated in the younger population; deaths were seen in only 2 cases (n =2). The extent of CABG characteristics was positively correlated and statistically significant (p=0.001). In conclusion, Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) risk is more common in resource-poor and developing countries. Considering all the research findings, the present study concludes that CABG surgery can be treated with comparable components for the management of patients diagnosed to be suffering from Coronary artery disease below the age of 40 years. Relative long-term survival rate after CABG surgery, regardless of gender needs to be assessed for over a period of time at the population level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The importance of mitochondria in normal heart function are well recognized and recent studies have implicated changes in mitochondrial metabolism with some forms of heart disease. Previous studies demonstrated that knockdown of the mitochondrial ribosomal protein S5 (MRPS5) by small interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibits mitochondrial translation and thereby causes a mitonuclear protein imbalance. Therefore, we decided to examine the effects of MRPS5 loss and the role of these processes on cardiomyocyte proliferation. METHODS: We deleted a single allele of MRPS5 in mice and used left anterior descending coronary artery ligation surgery to induce myocardial damage in these animals. We examined cardiomyocyte proliferation and cardiac regeneration both in vivo and in vitro. Doxycycline treatment was used to inhibit protein translation. Heart function in mice was assessed by echocardiography. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and RNA sequencing were used to assess changes in transcription and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and BioChIP were used to assess chromatin effects. Protein levels were assessed by Western blotting and cell proliferation or death by histology and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assays. Adeno-associated virus was used to overexpress genes. The luciferase reporter assay was used to assess promoter activity. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate, ATP levels, and reactive oxygen species were also analyzed. RESULTS: We determined that deletion of a single allele of MRPS5 in mice results in elevated cardiomyocyte proliferation and cardiac regeneration; this observation correlates with improved cardiac function after induction of myocardial infarction. We identified ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4) as a key regulator of the mitochondrial stress response in cardiomyocytes from Mrps5+/- mice; furthermore, ATF4 regulates Knl1 (kinetochore scaffold 1) leading to an increase in cytokinesis during cardiomyocyte proliferation. The increased cardiomyocyte proliferation observed in Mrps5+/- mice was attenuated when one allele of Atf4 was deleted genetically (Mrps5+/-/Atf4+/-), resulting in the loss in the capacity for cardiac regeneration. Either MRPS5 inhibition (or as we also demonstrate, doxycycline treatment) activate a conserved regulatory mechanism that increases the proliferation of human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes. CONCLUSIONS: These data highlight a critical role for MRPS5/ATF4 in cardiomyocytes and an exciting new avenue of study for therapies to treat myocardial injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effect of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and red cell distribution width (RDW) values on postoperative mortality and morbidity in patients who underwent off-pump cardiac surgery. Methods: This study included patients who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery from January 1, 2018 to January 1, 2020. Correlations between the preoperative NLR and RDW values and postoperative complications, extubation time, length of intensive care unit stay, and length of hospital stay were evaluated. Results: A total of 68 patients were evaluated. No correlation was found between preoperative RDW and NLR values and age, ejection fraction, extubation time, or length of hospital stay. The length of stay in the intensive care unit did not correlate with the preoperative RDW value but was correlated with the NLR value (p=0.042). In six patients, postoperative complications were observed. No statistically significant difference was found between patients with and without complications in terms of preoperative RDW and NLR values. Conclusion: In this study, a high preoperative NLR value was associated with a prolonged intensive care unit stay, one of the early complications of cardiac surgery. However, the preoperative RDW value did not have a predictive relationship with early postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To review the available literature on the use of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) as a treatment option for anomalous origin of coronary artery in adults. A systematic literature search was performed in March 2023 (including Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases) to identify studies reporting the use of CABG in adult patients with anomalous origin of coronary artery. A total of 31 studies and 62 patients were included, 32 patients (52%) were women, and the mean age was 45.1±16.1 years. The most common coronary anomaly was the right coronary artery arising from the left coronary sinus in 26 patients (42%), followed by an anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery in 23 patients (37%). A total of 65 conduits were used in 61 patients, and 1 case report did not report conduit type. Reported grafts included saphenous vein (23 of 65 [35.4%]), left internal thoracic artery (15 of 65 [23.1%]), right internal thoracic artery (23 of 65 [35.4%]), and radial artery (2 of 65 [3.1%]); right gastroepiploic artery and basilic vein were used once (1.5%) each. Ligation of the native coronary artery was performed in 42 (67.7%) patients. Patient follow-up was available in 19 studies with a mean of 31.2 months. Only 1 operative mortality was reported. Based on the limited available data, CABG can be performed with good early results. Use of arterial conduits and ligation of the native coronary artery may improve long-term graft patency. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE II) is a well-established scoring system for predicting mortality in cardiac surgery. This system was derived predominantly from a European patient cohort; however, no validation of this system has been conducted in Taiwan. We sought to assess the performance of EuroSCORE II at a tertiary centre. The 2161 adult patients receiving cardiac surgery between 2017 and 2020 in our institution were included. Overall, the in-hospital mortality rate was 7.89%. The performance of EuroSCORE II was assessed using the area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) for discrimination and the Hosmer–Lemeshow (H–L) test for calibration. Data were analysed for type of surgery, risk stratification, and status of the operation. EuroSCORE II had good discriminative power (AUC=0.854, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.822–0.885) and good calibration (χ2=5.19, p=0.82) for all types of surgery except ventricular assist devices (AUC=0.618, 95% CI: 0.497–0.738). EuroSCORE II also showed good calibration for most types of surgery except coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) combined procedure (P=0.033), heart transplantation (HT) (P=0.017), and urgent operation (P=0.041). EuroSCORE II significantly underestimated the risk for CABG combined procedure and urgent operations, and overestimated the risk for HT. EuroSCORE II had satisfactory discrimination and calibration power to predict surgical mortality in Taiwan. However, the model is poorly calibrated for CABG combined procedure, HT, urgent operation, and, likely, lower- and higher-risk patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation is the most common postoperative complication adding significantly to the morbidity rate and cost of coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). AF is a superventricular tachyarrhythmia diagnosed through irregular atrial activities and disappearance of atria mechanical function. In electrocardiogram (EGG), AF appears as quick vibrating waves replaced by P-waves and often accompanied by quick and irregular ventricular response. AF may occur in isolation or along with other arrhythmias. Incidence of atrial fibrillation after CABG is between 20% and 40%. This arrhythmia is often benign and transient, but can cause hemodynamic disorders, thromboembolic complications, longer time of hospital stay and serious complications including cerebral apoplexy, and increase in the length of hospitalization. Digoxin, calcium blockers, magnesium, glucose-insulin, potassium solution, and various cardioplegia are ineffective at preventing atrial fibrillation after CABG.Amiodarone is a multifaceted antiarrhythmic with a proven record of effectiveness in the treatment of atrial arrhythmias in a variety of clinical settings. Daud et al showed a significant reduction in postoperative atrial fibrillation with oral amiodarone in patients undergoing either CABG or valvular surgery. In this current study we evaluated the effects of amiodarone in preventing intra and post op arrhythmias and compared it to subjects not receiving amiodarone preoperatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: del Nido cardioplegia (DN) has been shown to be safe in adult patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting with normal left ventricular ejection fraction. We sought to determine whether it was also safe in adult patients with diminished left ventricular function. Methods: All patients with preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40% undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting between 1/1/2019 and 7/10/2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Off-pump and beating heart cases were excluded. Patients were divided by surgeon preference between conventional cardioplegia (CCP) and DN. Baseline and intraoperative characteristics and short-term postoperative outcomes were compared. Results: Six surgeons performed 829 isolated coronary artery bypass operations during the study. Two-hundred seventy-two met study criteria. Three surgeons used exclusively CCP for the duration of the study, two used exclusively DN and one switched from CCP to DN mid-way through. Group totals were: CCP n = 181 and DN n = 91. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics including mean left ventricular ejection fraction (CCP 32.5 ± 7.4% vs. DN 33.4 ± 7.29%, p = 0.939). Other than a significant decrease in bypass time for DN (113.20 ± 37.2 vs. 122.43 ± 34.3 min, p = 0.043) there were no intergroup differences in urgency, number of grafts, ischemic time or incidence of blood transfusion. Postoperative outcomes between CCP and DN were similar including incidence of atrial fibrillation (12.2% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.403), intensive care length of stay (3.7 ± 2.3 vs. 4.3 ± 3.7 days, p = 0.886), total length of stay (5.7 ± 3.7 vs. 6.3 ± 4.4 days, p = 0.922) and 30-day mortality (3.85% vs. 1.10%, p = 0.205). Conclusion: Compared to conventional cardioplegia, del Nido cardioplegia provides equivalent short-term outcomes in patients with low left ventricular ejection fraction undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients with 3-vessel coronary artery disease (CAD) and/or left main CAD, individual risk prediction plays a key role in deciding between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The aim of this study was to assess whether these individualized revascularization decisions can be improved by applying machine learning (ML) algorithms and integrating clinical, biological, and anatomical factors. In the SYNTAX (Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) study, ML algorithms (Lasso regression, gradient boosting) were used to develop a prognostic index for 5-year death, which was combined, in the second stage, with assigned treatment (PCI or CABG) and prespecified effect-modifiers: disease type (3-vessel or left main CAD) and anatomical SYNTAX score. The model's discriminative ability to predict the risk of 5-year death and treatment benefit between PCI and CABG was cross-validated in the SYNTAX trial (n = 1,800) and externally validated in the CREDO-Kyoto (Coronary REvascularization Demonstrating Outcome Study in Kyoto) registry (n = 7,362), and then compared with the original SYNTAX score II 2020 (SSII-2020). The hybrid gradient boosting model performed best for predicting 5-year all-cause death with C-indexes of 0.78 (95% CI: 0.75-0.81) in cross-validation and 0.77 (95% CI: 0.76-0.79) in external validation. The ML models discriminated 5-year mortality better than the SSII-2020 in the external validation cohort and identified heterogeneity in the treatment benefit of CABG vs PCI. An ML-based approach for identifying individuals who benefit from CABG or PCI is feasible and effective. Implementation of this model in health care systems—trained to collect large numbers of parameters—may harmonize decision making globally. (Synergy Between PCI With TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery: SYNTAX Extended Survival [SYNTAXES]; NCT03417050 ; SYNTAX Study: TAXUS Drug-Eluting Stent Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for the Treatment of Narrowed Arteries; NCT00114972) [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Re-opening the chest is an unwanted and potentially morbid complication after open heart surgery, most commonly required for refractory bleeding or tamponade. In this report, we present a unique case of a postoperative coronary artery bypass patient, demonstrating clinical features of cardiac tamponade of the right atrium and ventricle with inconclusive findings on imaging. Case presentation: A 62 year-old male presented to hospital with exertional angina and a coronary angiogram found severe three-vessel coronary artery disease with preserved left ventricular function. He underwent an uncomplicated triple coronary artery bypass surgery. Over the following hours in the cardiac intensive care unit, the patient had a climbing serum lactate level and increasing vasopressor requirements. On investigations, there was evidence of compression of the right heart. The patient was taken back to the operating room where very little clot or bleeding was identified, rather there was significant amounts of mediastinal fat surrounding the heart which was subsequently resected with wide margins. The patient had complete resolution of their symptoms and an uncomplicated postoperative course thereafter. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this case is the first reported occurrence of cardiac constriction from excessive mediastinal fat after open heart surgery. Identifying patients at high-risk for excessive pericardial fat, as well as considering alternative modalities of imaging appear to be the main stay in diagnosis at this point. Current treatment is a mediastinal lipectomy with wide margins, avoiding injury to surrounding structures such as the phrenic nerve and innominate vein. Future study might consider the value of prophylactic mediastinal lipectomy at time of surgery, and methods to improve detection with current and future imaging modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of sex hormones on right and left auricular contractile apparatus function is largely unknown. We evaluated the impact of sex hormones on left and right heart contractility at the level of myocardial filaments harvested from left and right auricles during elective coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods: 150 patients (132 male; 18 female) were enrolled. Preoperative testosterone and estradiol levels were measured with Immunoassay. Calcium induced force measurements were performed with left- and right auricular myofilaments in a skinned fiber model. Correlation analysis was used for comparison of force values and levels of sex hormones and their ratio. Results: Low testosterone was associated with higher top force values in right-sided myofilaments but not in left-sided myofilaments for both sexes (p = 0.000 in males, p = 0.001 in females). Low estradiol levels were associated with higher top force values in right-sided myofilaments (p 0.000) in females and only borderline significantly associated with higher top force values in males (p 0.056). In females, low estradiol levels correlated with higher top force values in left sided myofilaments (p 0.000). In males, higher Estradiol/Testosterone ratio (E/T ratio) was only associated with higher top force values from right auricular myofilaments (p 0.04) In contrast, in females higher E/T ratio was associated with lower right auricular myofilament top force values (p 0.03) and higher top force values in left-sided myofilaments (p 0.000). Conclusions: This study shows that patients' comorbidities influence left and right sided contractility and may blur results concerning influence of sex hormones if not eliminated. A sex hormone dependent influence is obvious with different effects on the left and right ventricle. The E/T ratio and its impact on myofilament top force showed divergent results between genders, and may partially explain gender differences in patients with cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) has led to a pandemic, with significant microvascular and macrovascular complications including coronary artery disease (CAD), which worsen clinical outcomes and cardiovascular prognosis. Patients with both acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and DM have worse prognosis and several pathophysiologic mechanisms have been implicated including, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation and aggregations as well as plaque characteristics and extent of coronary lesions. Therefore, regarding reperfusion strategies in the more complex anatomies coronary artery bypass surgery may be the preferred therapeutic strategy over percutaneous coronary intervention while both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia should be avoided with closed monitoring of glycemic status during the acute phase of myocardial infraction. However, the best treatment strategy remains undefined. Non-insulin therapies, due to the low risk of hypoglycemia concurrently with the multifactorial CV protective effects, may be proved to be the best treatment option in the future. Nevertheless, evidence for the beneficial effects of glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 inhibitors and sodium glycose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, despite accumulating, is not robust and future randomized control trials may provide more definitive data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glutamate plays a key role for post‐ischaemic recovery of myocardial metabolism. According to post hoc analyses of the two GLUTAMICS trials, patients without diabetes benefit from glutamate with less myocardial dysfunction after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Copeptin reflects activation of the Arginine Vasopressin system and is a reliable marker of heart failure but available studies in cardiac surgery are limited. We investigated whether glutamate infusion is associated with reduced postoperative rises of plasma Copeptin (p‐Copeptin) after CABG. Methods: A prespecified randomised double‐blind substudy of GLUTAMICS II. Patients had left ventricular ejection fraction ≤0.30 or EuroSCORE II ≥3.0 and underwent CABG ± valve procedure. Intravenous infusion of 0.125 M L‐glutamic acid or saline at 1.65 mL/kg/h was commenced 10–20 min before the release of the aortic cross‐clamp and then continued for another 150 min P‐Copeptin was measured preoperatively and postoperatively on day one (POD1) and day three. The primary endpoint was an increase in p‐Copeptin from the preoperative level to POD1. Postoperative stroke ≤24 h and mortality ≤30 days were safety outcomes. Results: We included 181 patients of whom 48% had diabetes. The incidence of postoperative mortality ≤30 days (0% vs. 2.1%; p =.50) and stroke ≤24 h (0% vs. 3.2%; p =.25) did not differ between the glutamate group and controls. P‐Copeptin increased postoperatively with the highest values recorded on POD1 without significant inter‐group differences. Among patients without diabetes, p‐Copeptin did not differ preoperatively but postoperative rise from preoperative level to POD1 was significantly reduced in the glutamate group (73 ± 66 vs. 115 ± 102 pmol/L; p =.02). P‐Copeptin was significantly lower in the Glutamate group on POD1 (p =.02) and POD 3 (p =.02). Conclusions: Glutamate did not reduce rises of p‐Copeptin significantly after moderate to high‐risk CABG. However, glutamate was associated with reduced rises of p‐Copeptin among patients without diabetes. These results agree with previous observations suggesting that glutamate mitigates myocardial dysfunction after CABG in patients without diabetes. Given the exploratory nature of these findings, they need to be confirmed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long-term use of proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) can result in hypomagnesemia and arrhythmia. This study aimed to compare the effect of PPI and histamine 2-receptor antagonists (H2 RA) on the incidence of hypomagnesemia and arrhythmia in patients following off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Method: In this randomized-controlled clinical trial 290 patients admitted to the ICU after off-pump CABG were randomly divided into two groups of H2 RA (n=145) and PPI (n=145). For patients in the H2 RA group, 50 mg intravenous ranitidine was prescribed every 8 hours after the nothing by mouth (NPO) period, followed by 40 mg famotidine tablets after starting the oral regimen (PO). The PPI group received 40 mg pantozol IV injections every 12 hours during the NPO period and 40 mg pantozol tablets once daily after becoming PO. The patients were investigated for the development of hypomagnesemia and associated arrhythmia. Results: In total 271 patients with a mean age of 59.3±10 years completed the study (female/male=32.8%). Hypomagnesemia occurred in 60.1% of the patients, 76 (56.7%) in the H2 RA group and 87 (63.5%) in the PPI group (P=0.245), whereas arrhythmia had a prevalence of 12 (9.6%) and 15 (11.1%) cases, respectively (P=0.690). The mean time of occurrence of hypomagnesemia and arrhythmia was 1.75±1.08 and 3.0±0.9 days after the operation in the H2 RA group (P=0.111) and 1.47±0.7 and 2.9±1.5 days in the PPI group (P=0.897), respectively. Conclusion: Our study revealed that the short-term use of PPIs does not result in higher rates of hypomagnesemia and associated arrhythmia in comparison to H2 RA consumption after off-pump CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a retrospective study comparing the mortality rates of patients prescribed vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) versus non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs), specifically apixaban, edoxaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran. The study found higher mortality rates and cardiac/cerebrovascular events in patients prescribed factor Xa inhibitors (FXaIs) compared to VKAs. However, the study's methodology and inclusion of patients with various anticoagulation indications have been questioned, as important factors like frailty and disability were not considered. The authors suggest that future research should include these fundamental variables when studying older adults with a high risk of non-cardiovascular mortality. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Diagnosing hypoglycemia is a widely known challenge for anesthesiologists during the perioperative period, especially under general anesthesia, during which many signs and symptoms would be masked. On the other hand, the bispectral index, which has recently been utilized to measure the depth of anesthesia, may be influenced by other factors such as hypo and hyperglycemia. Cases Report: Herein, we have presented a case of a patient who experienced an abrupt decrease in the Bispectral index following hypoglycemia. Conclusion: Although the Bispectral index is widely used to monitor anesthesia depth, it can be utilized to continuously monitor other contributing factors such as glycemic condition, hypothermia, hypovolemia, and cerebral ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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