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Objective Patient-prosthesis mismatch (PPM) is associated with poor outcomes after aortic valve replacement. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of indexed effective orifice area (EOAi) charts in predicting PPM after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods A retrospective review of 346 TAVR patients from January 2017 to November 2018 was performed. EOAi was predicted for patients based on published predictive tables using valve type, annulus diameter, and body surface area. Actual EOAi was calculated based on intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) measurements. PPM was defined by EOAi ≤ 0.85 cm2 /m2 . The accuracy of predicted PPM was assessed. Differences in clinical outcomes, including mean gradient, length of stay, mortality, complications, and change in Kansas City cardiomyopathy questionnaire score as an indicator of quality of life, were evaluated based on actual PPM. Results Of the 346 patients analyzed, 44 (12.7%) of patients had PPM on intraoperative TEE. Of the 182 patients who received Sapien 3 valves, 42 (23.1%) were predicted to have PPM while 25 (13.7%) had actual PPM. Of the 164 patients who received Evolut valves, 3 (1.8%) were predicted to have PPM while 19 (11.6%) had actual PPM. EOAi charts had poor sensitivity (40.0% for Sapien 3; 5.25% for Evolut) and positive predictive value (23.8% for Sapien 3; 33.3% for Evolut) for both valve types. Conclusion Preoperative prediction of PPM in TAVR patients using tables of expected EOA demonstrates significant variation from actual PPM. The utility of EOAi charts to predict PPM in patients undergoing TAVR may be limited.

Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a rare condition with extensive proliferation of fibrous tissue in the mediastinum usually happens few years after Histoplasma infection. FM usually occurs years later after presentation of Histoplasma infection, and usually what makes patients seek medical attention are symptoms from compression and occlusion of vital mediastinal structures, such as the central airways, superior vena cava, pulmonary arteries, and veins. Rarely, heart, pericardium, coronaries, and aorta are involved. We report a case of 39-year-old-male who was admitted with fever and cough. The patient's condition worsened despite being on broad-spectrum antibiotics, with worsening encephalopathy and a new onset lower extremity weakness. Brain imaging showed multiple strokes suggestive of embolic event. CT chest/abdomen was suggestive of FM along with cavitary lung nodules and pneumomediastinum. Splenic and renal infarcts were also noted. Infective endocarditis was one of the top differential diagnosis due to multiple embolic infarcts, and hence a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was pursued. TEE showed a mass along with air bubbles entering the left atrium from the pulmonary vein. On re-evaluation of CT chest images, a fistula was seen extending from the mediastinum to the left main bronchus and the left upper pulmonary vein. This supported the diagnosis of FM with erosion of lymph node into the left main bronchus and left upper pulmonary artery, leading to fistula formation and subsequent systemic air embolization. The diagnosis of FM requires a multimodality approach, high clinical suspicion, and accurate history taking. Treatment mainly aims at managing the mechanical complications.

A 35-year-old woman without any history of congenital heart disease presented to our clinic with dyspnea on exertion. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed an eccentric tricuspid regurgitant jet and increased right ventricular systolic pressure. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) revealed a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) arising from the noncoronary sinus that ruptured into the right atrium, leading to the formation of an aorto-right atrial fistula. Right heart catheterization confirmed left to right shunt. The fistulous tract was resected, and the aneurysm repaired surgically. The patient made a good recovery.

Papillary fibroelastomas represent the second most common benign cardiac tumour, secondary only to cardiac myxoma. A majority of patients are asymptomatic on presentation. The most common clinical manifestations include stroke, transient ischaemic attack, myocardial infarction and angina. Echocardiography remains the primary imaging modality for identification of these tumours. The majority of papillary fibroelastomas arise from the valves. Simple surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment, carrying an excellent prognosis. We present an unusual case of cardiac papillary fibroelastoma originating from the coumadin ridge (CR) in a 70-year-old woman. The patient exhibited increasing paroxysms of her atrial fibrillation and was pursuing a MAZE procedure. Preoperatively, a transesophageal echocardiogram revealed a 0.7×1 cm intracardiac mass that had echocardiographic appearance of a fibroelastoma. Surgical resection and MAZE procedures were performed. The gross specimen and histopathology findings were consistent with papillary fibroelastoma. This case reports the seventh documented case of fibroelastoma originating from the CR.

Serratia marcescens bacteremia is common in patient populations with a history of intravenous drug use (IVDU), but it rarely causes infective endocarditis. We are reporting a 27-year-old female with a medical history significant for IVDU and hepatitis C virus infection who presented to the emergency department complaining of fever and shortness of breath. Computed tomography of the chest with intravenous (IV) contrast revealed extensive bilateral pulmonary infiltrates with multiple cavitary lesions. The patient was treated with IV vancomycin and piperacillin/tazobactam. Blood culture grows methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and S. marcescens, both sensitive to cefepime/meropenem. Transesophageal echocardiogram revealed 3.4 x 2 cm tricuspid valve vegetation. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted, who recommended transcatheter aspiration with the AngioVac® system (AngioDynamics Inc., Latham, NY). Post-procedure transesophageal echocardiogram revealed a significant reduction of vegetation size. Vegetation tissue culture grew MSSA and S. marcescens. The repeated blood culture revealed no growth, and the patient significantly improved clinically. She completed a six-week course of IV meropenem as an inpatient until she was discharged home.

Introduction: As the pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of the atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation procedure, esophagus overheating has become a subject of great concern. Objectives: To assess whether the mechanical displacement of the esophagus (MDE), performed by a regular transesophageal echocardiogram probe (TEEP) may prevent esophagus overheating during the procedure. Methods: A 55 patient prospective-controlled study with paroxysmal or persistent AF in which RF delivery was stopped, whenever a sinusoidal probe with multiple thermocouples detected a luminal esophageal temperature (LET) elevation ≥0.5°C. A LET elevation

Patient: Male, 73-year-old Final Diagnosis: Severe COVID-19 pneumonia complicated by right atrium thrombus Symptoms: Fever • dyspnea • cough Medication:— Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: Critical Care Medicine Objective: Educational purpose Background: Recent studies demonstrated evidence of coagulation dysfunction in hospitalized patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to excessive inflammation, hypoxia, platelet activation, endothelial dysfunction, and stasis. Effective anticoagulation therapy may play a dominant role in the management of severe COVID-19 cases. Case Report: A 73-year-old man with a 6-day history of fever up to 38.5°C, dyspnea, cough, and fatigue was diagnosed with COVID-19. He had a past medical history significant for hypertension and coronary artery bypass grafting. Two days after hospital admission, the patient developed acute respiratory failure, requiring intubation, mechanical ventilation, and transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU). He received treatment including antibiotics, hydroxychloroquine, tocilizumab, vasopressors, prone positioning, and anticoagulation with enoxaparin at a prophylactic dose. After a 15-day ICU stay, the patient was hemodynamically stable but still hypoxemic; a transthoracic echocardiogram at that time, followed by a transesophageal echocardiogram for better evaluation, revealed the presence of a right atrium thrombus without signs of acute right ventricular dilatation and impaired systolic function. Since the patient was hemodynamically stable, we decided to treat him with conventional anticoagulation under close monitoring for signs of hemodynamic deterioration; thus, the prophylactic dose of enoxaparin was replaced by therapeutic dosing, which was a key component of the patient’s successful outcome. Over the next few days he showed significant clinical improvement. The follow-up transesophageal echo-cardiogram 3 weeks after effective therapeutic anticoagulation revealed no signs of right heart thrombus. Conclusions: The presented COVID-19 case, one of the first reported cases with evidence of right heart thrombus by transesophageal echocardiography, highlights the central role of diagnostic imaging strategies and the importance of adequate anticoagulation therapy in the management of severe COVID-19 cases in the ICU.

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is characterized by typical fibromyxomatous changes in the mitral leaflet tissue with superior displacement of one or both leaflets into the left atrium. An echocardiogram is a fundamental study required for the diagnosis of MVP with a flail leaflet and grading of mitral regurgitation (MR) severity. Most patients with MVP have a risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality similar to that of the general population, though moderate to severe MR and left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction less than 50% have been postulated to increase the risk of adverse cardiac events. In this case report, we present an isolated flailed P3 scallop of the mitral valve leaflet leading to severe MR and acute congestive heart failure. A 54-year-old African-American male with a medical history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and transient ischemic attack, presented to the emergency department (ED) for evaluation of dyspnea on exertion. The patient reported that his dyspnea started one week prior to ED visit and was associated with intermittent chest pain. He also endorsed mild orthopnea and lightheadedness, though he denied any syncopal event. Vital signs were found within normal limits on arrival. He clinically appeared to be volume overloaded which improved quickly with IV furosemide. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) with 3D image acquisition showed significant for hyper-dynamic LV function and evidence of isolated flailed P3 scallop of the mitral valve (MV) leaflet resulting in a severe eccentric, anteriorly directed MR jet. The MV leaflets did not appear thickened, and there was no evidence of mitral or aortic stenosis. Cardiac catheterization showed multivessel disease for which the patient underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and MV repair. This patient presented with new-onset congestive heart failure secondary to severe MR associated with undiagnosed MVP. Commonly, the middle scallop (P2) of the posterior leaflet is more prone to prolapse due to its redundancy and variable thickness with the impact of greater systolic pressure. However, in this case of acute severe MR, we identified an isolated flail of the P3 segment. We believe that this rare TEE finding was associated with a torn chordae or ruptured papillary muscle secondary to ischemic disease as the posteromedial papillary muscle has a single blood supply and is particularly prompted to injury from myocardial infarction.

Lambl's excrescences (LEs) are thin filiform strands of connective tissue found on the closure line of valves. Their exact etiology is unknown, and most of them are typically asymptomatic. We present a case of a 33-year-old African American male with a history of right upper extremity weakness that resolved on its own within a few minutes. On physical examination, no focal neurologic deficit was observed. MRI brain showed a tiny curvilinear focus of restricted diffusion with subtle T2-FLAIR hyperintensity in the left frontal/insular region, indicating a recent cortical infarct. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was performed as a part of cryptogenic stroke workup, which showed LE on aortic valve leaflet tips. Our patient had elevated blood pressure (BP) on arrival; however, in LE's presence, the embolic phenomena of stroke cannot be excluded. In conclusion, this case adds to a limited number of cases with such cardioembolic phenomena, which will help in further illustrating and highlighting the need for more prospective studies to establish a causal relationship between LE and cardioembolic strokes.

BACKGROUND: Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a paraneoplastic phenomenon with sterile vegetations. It is associated with adenocarcinoma and can shower emboli, which can be the presenting symptom. CASE PRESENTATION: A 44-year-old woman with adenocarcinoma of the lung presented with chest pain, left hand weakness, and ataxia due to repeated embolic showering from NBTE to the central nervous system (CNS) and spleen. CONCLUSION: NBTE is a rare condition that should be on the differential diagnosis in patients with culture-negative endocarditis and a history of adenocarcinoma. LEARNING POINTS: Differentiating non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) from infective endocarditis can be a diagnostic challenge due to slow growing organisms; laboratory findings that suggest NBTE include the lack of leucocytosis, normal C-reactive protein, negative blood culture sets, and positive antiphospholipid antibodies. Serial transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) should be performed if suspicion of valvular vegetations is high despite the initial TEE showing no vegetations. The mainstay treatment of NBTE is anticoagulation and addressing the underlying condition.

Purpose of review This article aims to review recent landmark clinical trials that have resulted in a paradigm shift in the management of patients with mitral regurgitation. This article additionally highlights the instrumental role that structural heart disease (SHD) imaging plays in evaluation of mitral regurgitation and determining candidacy for transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr), in addition to the procedural guidance and detection of complications. Recent findings Edge-to-edge TMVr with the MitraClip device (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, California) was initially studied and subsequently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of primary mitral regurgitation in 2013. After the publication of a landmark clinical trial in 2018, the indications have been expanded and FDA has subsequently, in 2019, approved TMVr for patients with functional mitral regurgitation. This has been paralleled by advances in cardiac imaging with more emphasis on the role of SHD imagers as a part of the heart team. Summary TMVr has revolutionized the management of mitral regurgitation and relies heavily on SHD imaging to ensure optimal outcomes.

A 24-year-old male patient presented with symptoms of acute progressive dyspnea and chest pain. Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated a mobile mass-like lesion attached to the tricuspid valve, as well as a holodiastolic flow reversal in the descending and abdominal aorta, as increased retrograde flow. We also evaluated the vegetation-like lesion by transesophageal echocardiography. As a result, we were able to diagnose the rupture of the sinus of Valsalva with shunt flow between the aorta and the right heart that had manifested as sudden chest pain and acute dyspnea. The patient underwent surgical repair for this ruptured lesion. After surgery, there was no evidence of residual shunt flow. The objective of this report is to describe a rare presentation of a ruptured sinus of Valsalva and to discuss the importance of adequate diagnosis using advanced imaging modalities.

Aortic dissection is a life-threatening emergency warranting expeditious diagnosis. Computed tomographic angiography (CTA) is the established gold standard test but is not always fool proof. We report the case of an 18-year-old male patient with traumatic type A aortic dissection which was not evident on the CTA, suggestive on the transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and eventually confirmed with a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). When the clinical suspicion for dissection is high and in the presence of complications of type A dissection, such as aortic regurgitation, it would be prudent to obtain further imaging with a TTE/TEE to rule in or rule out the diagnosis.

The study objectives were to determine the prevalence of swallowing impairment in adults after cardiac surgery and examine associated risk factors and health-related outcomes.A prospective single-center study was conducted in postoperative adult cardiac surgery patients with no history of dysphagia. A standardized fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing was performed within 72 hours of extubation. Blinded raters completed validated outcomes of swallowing safety and efficiency. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative health-related outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were performed with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).In 182 patients examined, imaging confirmed inefficient swallowing (residue) in 52% of patients and unsafe swallowing in 94% (65% penetrators, 29% aspirators). Silent aspiration was observed in 53% of aspirators, and 32% did not clear aspirate material. Independent risk factors for aspiration included New York Heart Association III and IV (OR, 2.9; CI, 1.2-7.0); reoperation (OR, 2.0; CI, 0.7-5.5); transesophageal echocardiogram images greater than 110 (OR, 2.6; CI, 1.1-6.3); intubation greater than 27 hours (OR, 2.1; CI, 0.8-5.3); and endotracheal tube size 8.0 or greater (OR, 3.1; CI, 1.1-8.6). Patients with 3 or 4 identified risk factors had a 16.4 (CI, 3.2-148.4) and 22.4 (CI, 3.7-244.7) increased odds of aspiration, respectively. Compared with nonaspirators, aspirators waited an additional 85 hours to resume oral intake, incurred $49,372 increased costs, and experienced a 43% longer hospital stay (P .05). Aspiration was associated with pneumonia (OR, 2.6; CI, 1.1-6.5), reintubation (OR, 5.7; CI, 2.1-14.0), and death (OR, 2.8; CI, 1.2-9.0).Tracheal aspiration was prevalent, covert, and associated with increased morbidity and mortality.

Infective endocarditis is a rare disease and is associated with a high mortality rate. The following case describes a 56-year-old gentleman who presented to our hospital with a pulseless left leg concerning for acute limb ischemia, which was managed with emergent revascularization. His subsequent workup revealed IE due to a rare organism known as Streptococcus dysgalactiae. Through this case, we want to showcase this rare cause of IE and also highlight systemic embolization as its possible initial presentation.

The goal of the paper is to highlight the importance of procedural planning and patient selection when using the MitraClip device in treating severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Following the recent results of the COAPT trial and FDA approval for functional MR patients, the indications for mitral clip are continuing to expand. Because of this, mitral stenosis from mitral clip can become a problem if the appropriate patients are not selected. Proper valve imaging, utilizing 3D transesophageal echocardiography to identify the pathology, is important to prevent iatrogenic mitral stenosis. In the unfortunate event of severe mitral stenosis as a result of the MitraClip device, surgery is the only treatment.

Background Aspergillus endocarditis (AE) is a rare and lethal cardiac infection with a high rate of mortality. AE most commonly presents in immunocompromised patients and is associated with various co-morbidities. Herein, we present a case of AE associated with lung, brain, and cervical abscesses after chemotherapy for malignant lymphoma that was successfully treated by a combination of antifungal and surgical therapy. Case presentation A 29-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with an unidentified fever. He was diagnosed with malignant lymphoma (extra-nodal NK/T cell lymphoma nasal type), and chemotherapy was administered. After chemotherapy, nodular lung shadows along with new brain, cervical, and myocardial abscesses appeared, despite anti-bacterial/fungal therapy. Gene analysis of the cervical abscess biopsy revealed the presence of Aspergillus fumigatus species, and the transesophageal echocardiogram showed a mobile mural vegetation in the left ventricle (22 × 8 mm). He underwent surgical resection of this mural vegetation. His postoperative course was uneventful. He remains healthy at 28 months after surgery with continued oral antifungal therapy. Conclusion Although AE associated with immunosuppression is a fatal clinical presentation, combined treatment with surgical resection and antifungal therapy was effective.

Aspergillus endocarditis is a fatal source of valvular infection with a near 100 % mortality rate if pharmacotherapy and valve-replacement surgery are not initiated swiftly after diagnosis. Complicating its diagnosis is the low yield for growth on standard blood culture and time requirements for molecular diagnostic tools to return a result. Aspergillus endocarditis of the mitral valve presents as valvular vegetations that reduce the caliber of the mitral valve and can cause syncope as in the case of mitral stenosis with subsequent valve failure, left atrial enlargement, and prospective cardiovascular failure. Reports of the management of Aspergillus endocarditis after serial mitral valve replacement are not prominent in the literature. We report the case of a 41-year-old female with previous mitral valve prosthesis who received a second prosthetic mitral valve after a syncopal episode. Vegetations resembling thrombi were noted on transesophageal echocardiogram, diagnosed as Aspergillus fumigatus endocarditis, and successfully treated with antifungal therapy in conjunction with removal of her dysfunctional prosthesis.

Serratia marcescens is an aerobic, Gram-negative bacillus first identified in 1819 (Yeung et al. 2018). S. marcescens infective endocarditis is extremely rare accounting for only 0.14% of all cases (Phadke and Jacob 2016, Hadano et al. 2012, Nikolakopoulos et al. 2019). We present the case of a 33-year-old male with a past medical history of Hodgkin lymphoma, nonischemic cardiomyopathy ejection fraction of 25–30%, severe aortic stenosis, hepatitis C, and active intravenous (IV) drug abuse who was admitted following a motor vehicle accident. Approximately 10 days into his admission, he developed a 39.5 degree Celsius fever, which prompted collection of blood cultures. These cultures were positive (2 out of 2) for S. marcescens for which he was treated with intravenous cefepime. Soon after this diagnosis, patient developed a complete AV block. Given the instability of the patient, he required emergent placement of a temporary pacing wire. Transesophageal echocardiogram was ordered and revealed an aortic root abscess. Given the comorbidities and active IV drug use, conservative management was pursued. Although rare, trends suggest that this pathogen may be on the rise. Further research is needed to better understand how to effectively manage this pathogen.

Severe mitral regurgitation and stenosis due to failed mitral annuloplasty ring can be managed with percutaneous mitral valve in ring in high surgical risk patients. A 66-year-old male underwent coronary artery bypass surgery and mitral valve ring annuloplasty 7 years previously. He started to have shortness of breath with minimal effort in the past 2 years. Transthoracic echocardiogram revealed a new severe mitral regurgitation and severe mitral stenosis. The patient was turned down from surgery due to high surgical risk. The transcatheter mitral valve in ring implantation was decided. In this case, there was a low probability of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. A stiff wire crossed the mitral valve ring and positioned in the left ventricular apex. The Sapien 3 valve size 26 mm (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA) was positioned to have 80% ventricular and 20% atrial side. Transesophageal echocardiogram evaluation revealed a mean gradient of 5 mmHg. The left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) had laminar color flow and the mean pressure gradient across LVOT was 1 mmHg. The patient was discharged after 2 days in good condition. At one year follow up, he had no shortness of breath and no rehospitalization. In conclusion, the percutaneous mitral valve in ring is feasible in selected patients. The risk of LVOT obstruction should be assessed carefully before the procedure with a transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram. 〈Learning objective: Understand how to guide the mitral valve in ring procedure with a transesophageal echocardiogram and how to avoid left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Understand how to position the Sapien valve in mitral valve ring.〉

Patient: Male, 55-year-old Final Diagnosis: Aerococcus urinae endocarditis • infective aortic wall ulcer • infective endocarditis Symptoms: Shortness of breath Medication:— Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: — Objective: Rare disease Background: Initially presumed as nonpathogenic, the bacterial genus aerococcus now includes 7 distinct virulent and avirulent species. Aerococcus urinae first isolated in 1992 is an uncommon cause of urinary tract infection (UTI) and is seen in only 0.15% to 0.8% of cases. A. urinae associated invasive bacteremia and systemic infection are extremely rare entities. Less than 50 cases of A. urinae associated with infective endocarditis (IE) have been reported in the literature, with the prevalence being 3 per 1 million. Case Report: A 59-year-old male presented to our hospital with exertional dyspnea and new-onset atrial flutter. Prior to his current admission patient was treated for A. urinae associated UTI with levofloxacin for 10 days. A transthoracic echocardiogram revealed severe aortic regurgitation with aortic valve endocarditis, which was subsequently confirmed on transesophageal echocardiogram. Blood cultures displayed gram-positive cocci in clusters, ultimately identified as A. urinae. The patient was treated with intravenous vancomycin and underwent surgical aortic valve replacement along with patch repair for underlying aortic wall ulcer. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first-ever reported case of A. urinae associated IE complicated by an aortic wall ulcer. Male gender, age >65 years, and preexisting urinary tract pathology have all been implicated as risk factors for aerococcus infection. A. urinae is almost always sensitive to penicillin, carbapenem, and aminoglycosides.

Background An ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm is a severe and rare complication following cardiothoracic surgery. This case report demonstrates its possible misinterpretation and the consequent importance of multidisciplinary evaluation. Case presentation We present a case of an 18-year-old Caucasian man with Marfan syndrome who developed an ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm about 1 year after undergoing cardiac surgery with the Bentall procedure. Computed tomographic examination of the thoracic aorta and positron emission tomography–computed tomography initially suggested a lymphomatous pathology. However, these imaging results were in contrast to the transesophageal echocardiogram and the laboratory data that showed negative results for hematological pathology. A second computed tomographic scan redirected the diagnosis toward a pseudoaneurysm. Conclusion This case demonstrates the utility of close communication and interdisciplinary consultation between cardiovascular radiologists and the cardiac surgery team, which are mandatory in order to maximize their diagnostic skills in identifying postoperative complications.

To evaluate diagnostic accuracy of different protocols of contrast enhanced computed tomography venogram (CTV) for LAA thrombus detection in patients undergoing AF ablation and study the correlation of the novel LAA enhancement index (LAA-EI) to LAA flow velocity obtained using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).Study comprised of patients undergoing CTV and TEE on the same day from October 2016 to December 2017. Three CTV scanning protocols (described in results), were evaluated wherein ECG gating was used only for those with sinus rhythm on day of CTV. LAA-EI was calculated as Hounsfield Unit (HU) in the LAA divided by the HU unit in the center of the LA. The diagnostic accuracy for CTV was calculated in comparison to TEE. The LAA-EI was compared to LAA emptying velocities as obtained from TEE.590 patients with 45.6% non-ECG-gated without delayed imaging, 26.9% non-ECG-gated with delayed imaging and 27.5% ECG-gated with delayed imaging, were included in the study. All three protocols had 100% negative predictive value with improvement in specificity from 61.8% to 98.1% upon adding delayed imaging. The LAA-EI correlated significantly with reduced LAA flow velocities (r = 0.45, p .0001). The mean LAA emptying velocity in patients with LAA-EI of ≤ 0.6 was significantly lower than in those with LAA-EI of0.6 (36.2 cm/s [95% CI: 32.6-39.7] vs, (58 cm/s [95% CI 55.3-60.8]), respectively (p .0001).CTV with delayed imaging (with or without ECG gating) is highly specific in ruling out LAA thrombus. The novel LAA-EI can detect low LAA flow velocities.

A 35-year-old male with history of recurrent arrhythmias presented for pulmonary vein isolation. He underwent pre-procedural screening for thromboembolism risk with transesophageal echocardiogram. He had an incidental finding of a rare fenestrated membrane overlying his left atrial appendage. Additional work-up throughout his clinical course revealed genetic mutations in the LMNA and SNTA1 genes. There have been no previous reported genetic mutations reported in cases with LAA membranes.

Intravascular hemolysis is a known complication of prosthetic heart valves. Severe hemolysis is rare (

Ascending (type A) aortic dissection can rarely result in contained transverse pericardial sinus hematoma that compresses adjacent structures making diagnosis more challenging. We present a rare case of a 77-year-old man who presented with sudden-onset chest pain and was admitted for a presumed acute coronary syndrome. Coronary angiography did not show significant stenosis and ruled out acute coronary syndrome. Transthoracic echocardiogram showed extracardiac structure compressing on the left atrium; hence, we performed transesophageal echocardiogram which confirmed aortic dissection and revealed a hematoma in the transverse pericardial sinus. Intraoperatively, a large hematoma in the transverse pericardial sinus was extracted and revealed a posterior perforation of the ascending aorta that extended into the left atrium.

Background: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is routinely used for intraoperative guidance for TAVR procedures. TAVR is also done with minimal imaging or no TEE guidance (minimal imaging approach). The clinical benefits of intraprocedure TEE during TAVR compared to minimal imaging approach has not been well established. Aim: To perform a meta-analysis of available trials comparing effectiveness of intraprocedural TEE versus minimal imaging approach during TAVR procedure. Hypothesis: TAVR with intraprocedural TEE is associated with better clinical outcomes compared with minimalist imaging approach. Methods: 8 retrospective observational studies were identified via a comprehensive literature search that incorporated Embase, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL. Each selected study reported on the comparison between TAVR performed with TEE guidance or with no TEE (minimalist strategy) during the procedure. Studies were screened for risk of bias using a quality assessment tool. Outcomes studied included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, paravalvular leak as defined by the original trial, readmission within 30 days, stroke, myocardial infarction (MI) , and acute kidney injury (AKI). For each outcome, estimates were pooled and reported as a risk ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: A total of 2057 patients were divided into TEE (n=1115) vs. non-TEE (n=942) cohorts. No significant difference was seen between TEE vs non-TEE groups in reducing cardiovascular mortality (RR=2.06 [95%CI: 0.91- 4.67], p=0.08 ), all cause mortality (RR= 0.63 [95% CI: 0.21- 1.90], p=0.41), readmission within 30 days (RR=0.49 [95% CI: 0.06-4.41], p=0.53), stroke (RR=0.97 [95% CI: 0.27- 3.47], p=0.96), MI (RR=0.92 [95%CI: 0.26- 3.29], p=0.90), and AKI (RR=1.24 [95% CI: 0.16-9.35], p=0.83). A significant increase in paravalvular leak was observed within the non-TEE group (RR=1.19 [95% CI: 1.01-1.39], p=0.04) in comparison to the TEE group. Conclusion: TEE guidance during TAVR is associated with reduced paravalvular leak when compared with minimal imaging approach. No other clinical difference was observed between the two approaches. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.

The EchoNavigator (EchoNav, Philips, The Netherlands) is a tool that fuses live X-ray with three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) images allowing for enhanced precision and accuracy during interventional cardiac procedures. We present the first case of EchoNav utilization during balloon mitral valvuloplasty using the newest version (EchoNav 3.0.2). The benefits of the EchoNav application include improved procedural precision and safety due to improved demonstration of the relationship between the interventional equipment and neighboring cardiac structures.

Background Progressive remodelling of the left ventricle with lateral and apical displacement of one or both papillary muscles can lead to recurrence of severe mitral regurgitation (MR) in the presence of the mitral valve (MV) ring. The MitraClip (Abbott, USA) is the only option in cases with annuloplasty rings too large for implantation of a Sapien prosthesis in high surgical-risk patients. We present a case where the MR jet was directed toward a para-ring hole, and the MitraClip system was used successfully to treat this severe MR. Case summary An 80-year-old woman underwent coronary artery bypass surgery plus MV repair with C-shaped ring 6 years ago. In the past year, she experienced severe shortness of breath; her ejection fraction dropped to 15%. A transesophageal echocardiogram revealed that severe MR started at the level of MV leaflets and then passed to the left atrium beside the MV ring. Live 3D showed the severe MR coming through the oval-shaped hole beside the C-shaped MV repair ring. MitraClip implantation was decided, the two leaflets were grasped successfully, the clip was fully closed, and only trace MR remained at the MV leaflets with no flow to the para-ring hole. The patient was extubated after 12 hours and discharged home after 2 days. Follow-up transthoracic echocardiography after 6 months showed the clip in place and trace residual MR. Conclusion Implantation of MitraClip in the presence of MV repair ring is feasible and safe. The para-ring defect can be left if the origin of MR from the MV coaptation line is treated successfully with MitraClip. Symptomatic improvement with no rehospitalization was documented in this case.

Here, we present a young asymptomatic male patient incidentally diagnosed to have aortic regurgitation (AR). The patient had a history of a blunt trauma to the thorax two years back but did never have any symptoms. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a moderately dilated left ventricle with normal systolic function and severe AR with normal nondilated aortic root and tri-leaflet aortic valve. To diagnose the etiology of the AR, a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was done, which revealed a perforation in the nonadjacent leaflet (NAL) and confirmed severe AR with two AR jets being clearly visualized, one through the point of incomplete coaptation and other one through the perforated area in the NAL. The patient was treated with aortic valve replacement and was doing well on follow-up.

Approximately 75% of cardiac tumors are benign, and 25% are malignant cardiac tumors. Of these, sarcomas are extremely rare and have been described in isolated case reports. Due to its rarity, there is no published guideline for the management of this pathological entity. We present a case of an 85-year-old female who presented to our hospital with a chief complaint of shortness of breath and pinpointed left-sided chest pain. Computed tomography of the chest showed a filling defect in the left atrium concerning a mass versus thrombus. A transesophageal echocardiogram showed a 4 cm multi-lobular echogenic mass with calcifications in the left atrium likely arising from the pulmonary vein suspicious for malignancy. Cardiovascular surgery department scheduled the patient for surgical debulking/removal via a minimally invasive approach. The specimen was reported to be multi-lobular and was resected in several fragments of tan, fleshy, and somewhat gelatinous appearing tissue in aggregate. Histopathology showed spindle cell malignant neoplasm with small foci of bone and cartilaginous formation, suggestive of osteosarcoma. Expert consultation at John Hopkins reported this to be a high-grade sarcoma with focal osteosarcomatous differentiation. Cardiac synovial sarcomas are less than 0.1% of all primary cardiac tumors reported in the literature. Cardiac synovial sarcomas are not extensively described in literature due to their low incidence and prevalence. Thus, it is important to report cases and follow outcomes. This case reports an extremely rare diagnosis that has been reported in less than seven case reports.

To explore the strategy of acute cerebral artery embolism after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) for atrial fibrillation (AF). Reporting two cases with acute cerebral infarction after RFA for AF. Two patients were both with AF, and intracardiac thrombus was excluded through transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) before procedure. Approach of ablation: circumferential pulmonary vein ablation in left atrium to isolate pulmonary vein plus linear ablation in the top and bottom of left atrium (BOX procedure). They both received Dabigatran Etexilate 110 mg twice daily, starting 6 hr after ablation. Symptoms of major stroke appeared 30 hr after ablation in Case 1. Occlusion was detected in M1 segment of the left middle cerebral artery by MRI 2 hr after symptoms onset. Intravenous thrombolysis was given immediately. In Case 2, the patient presented symptoms of major stroke 34 hr after ablation and occlusion in the basilar artery was confirmed by MRI 4.5 hr after symptoms onset. Although it was beyond the thrombolysis time window, mechanical thrombectomy was taken 7 hr after the symptoms onset. The culprit artery was successfully revascularized in both cases. In Case 1, NIHSS score was reduced from 8 (before thrombolysis) to 0 (24 hr after thrombolysis). In Case 2, NIHSS score decreased from 18 (before embolectomy) to 3 (24 hr after embolectomy). Both of the patients live a normal life without brain function impairment and hemorrhage until the last follow‐up. Timely recanalization could attained a good cure effect when acute stoke was happened after RFA for AF.

Objectives Despite a thorough work‐up including transesophageal echocardiography, 20%–30% of stroke etiology remains cryptogenic. Transesophageal echocardiogram is considered the gold standard procedure to detect cardiac or aortic sources of emboli. In the recent years, cardiovascular MRI has emerged as a noninvasive, sound, and reliable modality to image morphological and functional abnormalities. In this study, we compared none contrast cardiovascular MRI to transesophageal echocardiogram, in the ability to detect cardiovascular source of embolus in cryptogenic ischemic strokes. Methods A series of 24 patients who were labeled, after a thorough stroke work‐up, as having cryptogenic stroke, were examined with both transesophageal echocardiogram and noncontrast cardiovascular MRI to assess for cardiac or aortic source of emboli. The cardiologist who interpreted the transesophageal echocardiograms was blinded to the results of cardiovascular MRI. At the same time, the radiologist who interpreted the cardiovascular MRI was also blinded to the results of transesophageal echocardiogram. The cardiac lesions, with potential source of emboli that were assessed in our study included left ventricular thrombus, atrial septal aneurysm, and aortic atherosclerotic disease. The ability of cardiovascular MRI to identify potential source of cardiac embolus was then compared to that of transesophageal echocardiogram. Results Transesophageal echocardiogram detected ascending or arch aortic atherosclerotic plaque in 14 of the 24 patients. Other abnormalities detected include two atrial septal aneurysms and two left ventricular thrombus. Cardiovascular MRI was able to identify aortic atheroma in 13 patients; as well as three atrial septal aneurysms and two left ventricular thrombus. The accuracy of cardiovascular MRI to detect aortic atheroma, atrial septal aneurysm or left ventricular thrombus was great; 96%, 95.83%, and 100%, respectively. Conclusion This small study suggests that, in patients with cryptogenic stroke, cardiovascular MRI is comparable to transesophageal echocardiogram in detecting cardiac and aortic source of emboli., Etiology of stroke remains unknown in 20%–30% of patients. Transesophageal echocardiogram has been considered the gold standard procedure to detect cardiac sources of emboli. Cardiovascular MRI has emerged as a valuable tool to detect cardiac source of emboli in cryptogenic ischemic strokes.

A 33-year-old African American male was admitted with angina at rest and left sided weakness. Initial EKG in the emergency room showed ST elevation that spontaneously resolved, and patient became chest pain free. Patient immediately underwent cardiac catheterization, which showed no obstructive lesion. A brain MRI/MRA showed multiple lesions suggestive of an embolic event. Patient’s hemiparesis improved over 1 week but did not fully resolve. Further workup revealed a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) by a transesophageal echocardiogram. His hypercoagulable workup, genetic panel for hypercoagulable state and other blood workups were all negative except for Lp(a) of 311 mg/dL (Normal

Background: Coronary artery aneurysms are not uncommon vascular anomalies, but giant coronary artery aneurysms mimicking cardiac tumors are extremely rare and easily misdiagnosed as tumors. The management and prognosis are not well defined. Case report: We describe a case of a 50-year-old woman, who had a transthoracic echocardiogram that suggested a cardiac tumor in the right ventricle adjacent to the tricuspid valve and without ventricular wall akinesia. Her medical history was unremarkable, and she had no obvious symptoms. A transesophageal echocardiogram and computed tomography angiogram examination suggested the tumor-like structure was a giant coronary aneurysm, originating from the distal portion of right coronary artery. The patient underwent surgical intervention and recovered uneventfully. Histopathology of the excised aneurysm showed fibrous tissue hyperplasia with collagenization and calcification in the wall of the artery. Conclusion: Giant coronary artery aneurysms resembling heart tumors are extremely rare. Differentiating them from cardiac tumors can sometimes be difficult. This rare case emphasizes the importance of combining multiple imaging methods, which helps make accurate diagnosis. For treatment, surgical intervention may be the appropriate therapeutic strategy for the rare lesion.

A ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm as a cause of aorto–atrial fistula is very rare. We present the case of a 53-year-old female who presented with symptoms of acute heart failure and suspicion of an aorto–atrial fistula found on a transthoracic echocardiogram, which was confirmed on transesophageal echocardiography. A coronary angiogram showed normal coronary arteries but confirmed the right aorto–atrial fistula on aortogram. She underwent successful surgical repair of the fistula. Her postoperative echocardiogram showed a normal right atrium and right ventricle with no shunt. A ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm is a devastating event and presents as acute heart failure. Prompt diagnosis and surgical repair is necessary to prevent mortality. LEARNING POINTS A ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm causing an aorto–atrial fistula can present as acute heart failure. A transthoracic echocardiogram can identify the presence and location of a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, while a transesophageal echocardiogram can recognize fistulous tract formation. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography can confirm or better categorize echocardiographic findings. The management of an aorto–atrial fistula is surgical intervention, involving a patch repair.

Objective A small but significant proportion of patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter (AF) develop left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT) despite non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) prescription. This study examines clinical and echocardiographic risk factors associated with LAAT by transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) despite NOAC use in patients with non-valvular AF, to inform the decision whether a TEE should be performed prior to cardioversion. Methods We compared clinical and echocardiographic characteristics of patients with LAAT despite NOAC prescription for >3 weeks (n = 38) with a consecutive sample of patients on NOAC without LAAT (n = 101). Results The prevalence of LAAT despite NOAC prescription was 2.6%. Left atrial dilation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.310, 95% CI 1.144–9.580, p = 0.02) and greater CHA2DS2-VASC score (per-point increase, aOR 1.293, 1.027–1.628, p = 0.03) increased the odds for LAAT. Higher LVEF (per 5%, aOR 0.834, 0.704–0.987, p = 0.03) and presence of severe mitral regurgitation (aOR 0.147, 0.048–0.446, p = 0.002) were protective against LAAT. LAA emptying velocities were also independently associated with presence of LAAT (aOR per 10 cm/s, 0.46, 0.27–0.77). Conclusion Left atrial dilation, greater CHA2DS2-VASC score, absence of severe mitral regurgitation and lower left ventricular ejection fraction are associated with LAAT despite NOAC therapy. In addition to suspected NOAC noncompliance, presence of such high-risk features may warrant pre-cardioversion TEE. Similarly, in patients with LVEF > 50% and CHA2DS2-VASC

Objective This study was aimed to demonstrate the resection of anterior foramen magnum meningiomas through an endoscopic-assisted posterior midline suboccipital subtonsillar approach. Design This study was designed with illustration of the surgical steps and safety of this approach. Setting Evidence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cleft between the tumor and brainstem on MRI was studied (Fig. 1A and B). Preoperative tracheotomy was considered in cases of preoperative dysphagia to prevent any further neurological deterioration due to the bilateral access through the lower cranial nerves corridors. Semisitting position with extensive electrophysiological neuromonitoring and transesophageal echocardiogram was adopted. A standard midline incision with bilateral suboccipital craniotomy and C1-laminotomy was performed (Fig. 2A). After partial resection and elevation of the tonsils, tumor was debulked unilaterally around the lower cranial nerves and the vertebral artery, devascularized from the clival dura and then dissected from the brainstem (Fig. 2B, C). Endoscopic-assisted removal of its anterior portion followed. The same procedure was repeated from the opposite site for the contralateral portion, before approaching the purely anterior part with endoscope assistance (Fig. 2D). Participants Four consecutive patients were included in the study. Main Outcome Measures Grade of tumor resection and outcome (mRS) were primary measurement of this study. Results Clinical outcome and grade of resection are comparable to other series of patient treated with other foramen magnum approaches (Fig. 1C and D). Conclusion Anterior foramen magnum meningiomas can be safely removed through this relatively faster midline suboccipital approach with bilateral exposure of lower cranial nerves (CNs) and vertebral arteries and lower approach-related morbidity (no condyle drilling). The surgical corridor is created by the tumor during debulking reducing need for brain retraction and the removal of the anterior dural attachment coagulated under the microscope is verified and completed endoscopically with pituitary curettes (Simpson's grade II) (Fig. 1C and D).The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/9eACAJVwQBs.

Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is illustrated by thrombi deposition on normal heart valves without the presence of bacteremia. It typically occurs in the setting of chronic debilitating diseases such as cancer or autoimmune disease. The pathogenesis involves an endothelial injury in the presence of a hypercoagulable state secondary to the effects of circulatory cytokines, which triggers platelet deposition. It usually forms on the upstream atrial surface of the mitral and tricuspid valves and the ventricular surface of the pulmonic and aortic valves and occurs most commonly in the fourth to eighth decades of life with no specific gender predisposition. These vegetations have a distinct morphology that varies from infective endocarditis (IE). Cerebrovascular lesions due to NBTE have a distinctive pattern of multiple, widely distributed small and large strokes on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present a case of a 78-year-old man who was initially diagnosed as pneumonia and IE; he underwent a trans-esophageal echocardiogram (TEE), which revealed Libman-Sacks findings that have changed his diagnosis to lung cancer. We aim to highlight the characteristic TEE findings of NBTE to help clinicians search for underlying etiologies, including malignancies if NBTE is suspected.

A novel chordal system enables automated implantation of artificial mitral chords to treat mitral regurgitation (MR). This article summarizes the first-in-man initial clinical results.The CHAGALL (CHordArt system study for the treatment of mitral ReGurgitAtion due to leaflet proLapse or fLail) trial is a single arm, multicenter, prospective study to test the feasibility of this system for mitral repair. The interim clinical and echocardiographic results of the first 5 patients with a 12-month follow-up are presented.Five patients (mean age, 64 years) with severe MR received implantation of neochords with this device under cardiopulmonary bypass. Technical success was obtained in all patients. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed either no or trace residual MR (1+/4+) after repair. Survival at 30 days was 100%, and no device-related complication occurred. Reduction of MR was sustained up to 12 months.This novel chordal system is promising because it greatly facilitates the deployment of neochords to repair the mitral valve. Results at 12 months are encouraging. The device is currently under development for transcatheter approach.

BackgroundEsophageal thermal injury is a risk of ablation of the posterior left atrium despite various devices utilized to date.ObjectiveEvaluate the potential of a commercially-available esophageal cooling device to provide esophageal protection during left atrial catheter ablation.MethodsIn this pilot study, we randomized 6 patients undergoing catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. Three patients received standard of care for our site (use of a single-sensor temperature probe, with adjunct iced-water instillation for any temperature increases >1°C). Three patients received standard ablation after placement of the esophageal cooling device using a circulating water temperature of 4°C. All patients underwent transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) on the day prior to ablation followed by EGD on the day after.ResultsIn the 3 control patients, one had no evidence of esophageal mucosal damage, one had diffuse sloughing of the esophageal mucosa and multiple ulcerations, and one had a superficial ulcer with large clot. Both patients with lesions were classified as Zargar 2a. In the 3 patients treated with the cooling device, one had no evidence of esophageal mucosal damage, one had esophageal erythema (Zargar 1), and one had a solitary Zargar 2a lesion. At 3-month follow-up, 1 patient in each group had recurrence of atrial fibrillation.ConclusionsThe extent of esophageal injury was less severe with a commercially available esophageal cooling device than with reactive instillation of ice-cold water. This pilot study supports further evaluation with a larger clinical trial.

Infective endocarditis (IE) with Staphylococcus aureus is associated with intravenous drug abuse or infected cardiac devices and commonly presents with non-specific constitutional symptoms. A 53-year-old female presented to the hospital with back pain, altered mental status, fever, and tachycardia. Due to patient's lethargy and decline in respiratory effort, she was intubated and lumbar puncture was performed that revealed neutrophil-predominant leukocytosis of the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient was empirically started on ceftriaxone and vancomycin, and blood cultures were positive for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). A chest X-ray demonstrated pulmonary congestion and an implanted pacemaker; furthermore, a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) revealed a vegetation on the atrial lead of the pacemaker. As the patient's condition improved after a few days, she was extubated and was able to provide a clear history. The source of her infection was a pus pocket around her pacemaker which was placed two months prior to her admission. As expected, the infection resolved with proper source control and antibiotic therapy.

A 34-year-old Hispanic man sustained a stab wound to his chest complicated with hemopericardium and pericardial tamponade. He underwent emergent clamshell thoracotomy as well as repair to the pulmonary artery. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed no evidence of intracardiac shunt. Two months later, a new murmur was noted, with a transthoracic echocardiogram revealing high-velocity flow between the left coronary sinus and the main pulmonary artery, with which a coronary computed tomography angiogram concurred. A transesophageal echocardiogram was performed which revealed an aortopulmonic fistula from the left coronary sinus of Valsalva, approximately 1cm anterior to the ostium of the left main coronary artery, to the main pulmonary artery just distal to the pulmonic valve. Pulmonary insufficiency was minimal. The main pulmonary artery was dilated, measuring 3.2 cm by coronary computed tomography angiogram. Right ventricular systolic function was normal. Right and left heart catheterizations were performed to further assess hemodynamics and coronary anatomy; pulmonary artery pressures were 16/8 mm Hg. Aortopulmonary fistula was seen on aortogram. Surgery was deferred in view of lack of symptoms and uncertainty in its natural history in the setting of traumatic etiology. A repeat transthoracic echocardiogram at six-month follow-up showed spontaneous closure of the fistula.

Background Primary angiosarcomas of the right atrium are extremely rare, often resulted in missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis with routine examination tools. These malignant cardiac tumors are highly aggressive with generally poor prognosis. Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment as it is essentially not responsive to current regimens of chemoradiotherapy. Case presentation Herein, we describe a patient who initially presented with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and was subsequently treated with radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). Prior to RFCA, an initial transesophageal echocardiography revealed a local thickening of the intratrial septum. Three months later, she was hospitalized with progressive dyspnea and massive pericardial effusion. A large immobile, non-pedunculated mass, occupying almost half of the right atrium was detected by transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram. Multimodality cardiac imaging was useful in further characterizing this mass, which was ultimately diagnosed as an angiosarcoma based upon biopsy results. The growth rate was extremely rapid following RFCA, and patient underwent surgical excision. After discharge, the angiosarcoma recurred and patient survived for 7 months from the first episode of tamponade. Conclusions Primary cardiac angiosarcoma of the right atrium can easily be mistaken for structural anomalies in its early stages, losing the opportunity for initiating earlier treatments to improve potential patient outcomes. The correct diagnosis of this rare case relied on the comprehensive utilization of multimodal imaging techniques including biopsy.

Infective endocarditis is a heterogeneous disease with a wide array of pathological lesions. We present a 55-year-old man with severe mitral and aortic regurgitation on transthoracic echocardiography. Transesophageal echocardiogram characterized the mechanisms detecting a windsock mitral valve perforation, aortic root abscess, and Gerbode ventricular septal defect, with the deep transgastric view showing all three pathologies concurrently. The etiologies of mitral valve perforation and Gerbode defects are discussed. Transesophageal echocardiography remains a critical imaging modality to diagnose and evaluate the extent of infective endocarditis with superior sensitivity to transthoracic echocardiography.

A strong association exists between cyanotic congenital heart disease and pheochromocytoma, with chronic hypoxia speculated as a likely pathogenic mechanism. Excess catecholamines secreted by the pheochromocytoma can induce heart failure and arrhythmias, particularly in patients with Fontan physiology. Minimally invasive (MIS) resection of pheochromocytomas can pose unique challenges in patients with Fontan physiology. Here we present a complex case of anesthetic management of a robotic transabdominal pheochromocytoma resection in a patient with Fontan palliation. A 36 year old female with prior Fontan palliation presented for robotic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma. The patient remained hemodynamically stable throughout induction and insufflation. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram revealed pulmonic atresia with hypoplastic right ventricle, a non-restrictive secundum atrial septal defect, and normal systemic ventricular size and function. The patient experienced one episode of sudden and severe hypertension during clamping of the adrenal effluent vein, which responded to intravenous fentanyl, propofol, and nicardipine. The remainder of the procedure was uneventful. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Pheochromocytoma can have lethal consequences for Fontan patients. MIS adrenalectomy can offer faster recovery afforded by amelioration of pain and fluid shifts associated with laparotomy. While abdominal insufflation can cause negative hemodynamic derangements, these authors present a successful robotic approach to pheochromocytoma resection in a patient with Fontan physiology.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the inpatient setting. It is often precipitated by physical stressors such as acute illness or surgery and can result in patient discomfort, hemodynamic instability, heart failure and thromboembolism. Prevention of stroke with risk-based application of systemic anticoagulation is the most important treatment goal, while numerous pharmacologic and procedure-based therapies are available for control of ventricular response rate and the rhythm itself.

Although pericardial lipomas are both rare and benign, rapid or excessive growth can induce potentially fatal conditions such as pericarditis, arrhythmia, and cardiac tamponade. This case illustrates an example where a 65-year-old with atypical chest tightness unveiled a 10×15 cm anterior pericardial mass with circumferential effusion and progressive deterioration to cardiac tamponade. Initial transthoracic echocardiogram imaging was technically difficult in this patient due to habitus and body mass, which failed to illustrate underlying effusion. Recurrent bouts of refractory supraventricular tachycardia prompted further investigation of this patient’s presentation with transesophageal echocardiogram, which showed evidence of an echogenic mass with cardiac tamponade. An urgent pericardial window and pericardial lipectomy immediately relieved this hemodynamically compromising condition. Subsequent atrial flutter resulted with the removal of the anterior fat pad during surgery, complicating recovery.

In this case report, I describe a new technique for total reconstruction of the aortic valve with autologous pericardium. The parameters of the cusps were calculated using very simple formulas after measurement of the aortic root intercommissural distances. Glutaraldehyde-treated pericardium was trimmed along the marked line, leaving 2 mm of tissue along the fibrous annulus attachment margin for the suture and small wings on both commissural margins to secure the commissural coaptation between right and noncoronary cusps. The annular margin of each pericardial cusp was sutured to the corresponding fibrous annulus with running 4/0 polypropylene suture. The commissures of pericardial patch and the commissural coaptation between right and noncoronary cusps were secured with mattress 4/0 polypropylene sutures. The coaptation of the three cusps was checked with negative pressure on the left ventricular vent before closure of the aortotomy. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram revealed a peak pressure gradient of 10 mmHg and trivial aortic regurgitation.

Cardiac arrest following induction of general anesthesia is a rare event. A 47-year-old woman with a history of chronic neck pain secondary to spinal stenosis presented for elective cervical laminectomy. Induction of general anesthesia induced cardiac arrest and emergency insertion of the transesophageal echocardiogram probe identified severe, undiagnosed left ventricular hypertrophy with dynamic outflow obstruction. Resuscitative treatment was immediately implemented to include aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation, intravenous esmolol and phenylephrine to augment preload, afterload, and reflex bradycardia effect. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved and the patient was admitted to the ICU, where she was extubated with preserved neurocognitive function on the same day. Our case describes the risk presented by undiagnosed cardiac abnormalities in what was accepted as a low-to-intermediate risk patient undergoing an elective procedure. The increasing popularity and use of pocket-sized handheld ultrasound devices may help reduce the risk of occurrences such as this in the future.