Search

Aims To determine the prognosis of patients treated for infective endocarditis (IE) according to their healthcare pathway. To assess how the ESC guidelines are implemented concerning the performance of transoesophageal echocardiography, the use of antibiotic therapy, and the performance of valve surgery; and to compare the epidemiological profile of IE according to the type of centres in which the patients are hospitalized. Methods and results In a prospective multicentric study including 22 hospitals in the South-East of France, 342 patients were classified into three groups according to their healthcare pathway: 119 patients diagnosed and taken care entirely in a reference centre or hospital with cardiac surgery [Referral Center (RC) group], 111 patients diagnosed and initially taken care in a non-RC (NRC), then referred in a centre including cardiac surgery [transferred to the Referral Center (TRC) group] and 112 patients totally taken care in the NRC (NRC group). One-year mortality was 26% (88 deaths) and was not significantly different between Groups 1 and 2 (20 vs. 21%, P = 0.83). Patients in the NRC group had a higher mortality (37%) compared with patients in the RC and TRC groups (P Conclusion Prognosis of patients with IE is influenced by their healthcare pathway. Patients treated exclusively in NRC have a worse prognosis than patients treated in referral or surgical centres.

Peritonitis is a common complication of chronic peritoneal dialysis treatment contributing to both technique failure and/or death. Little is effectively known about the actual benefits of a continuous training program on peritonitis rates. In the present study, we measured the impact of our patients' training protocol on peritonitis rates. We further studied which consequences the COVID-related disruption of our follow-up program had on peritonitis rates.We present our yearly peritonitis rates since our patients' training and retraining program was implemented in 2010. We then focused our study on three consecutive years: 2019, 2020 (emergence of COVID-19), and 2021, collecting microbiological data from each peritonitis episode. Statistical analysis were used to corroborate our findings.Since 2010, peritonitis rates declined linearly (R2=0,6556; df=8; P0.01) until its nadir in 2019 with 4 peritonitis episodes. The majority of infections were then treated in the outpatient Clinic. In 2020, our continuous technique evaluation decreased by 51% and 28 peritonitis episodes occurred, 47% secondary to strict cutaneous bacteria's, and 31% gastro-intestinal, irrespective of patients' experience or peritoneal dialysis modality. The hospitalization rate reached 71%. Having restored our protocol, we decreased peritonitis rates by 50% in 2021.Risk factors for peritonitis are identifiable and modifiable and require sustained intervention, continuous visual monitoring and training. These interventions significantly reduce peritonitis rates. Any brief interruption to patients' technique evaluation may elevate peritonitis rates significantly.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) screening is usually performed before transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) by invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Computed coronary tomography angiography (CCTA) has shown good diagnostic performance for CAD screening in patients with a low probability of CAD and is systematically performed before TAVI. CCTA could be an efficient alternative to ICA for CAD screening before TAVI. We sought to investigate the diagnostic performance of CCTA in a population of unselected patients without known CAD who were candidates for TAVI. All consecutive patients referred to our center for TAVI without known CAD were enrolled. All patients underwent CCTA and ICA, which were considered the gold standard. A statistical analysis of the diagnostic performance per patient and per artery was performed. 307 consecutive patients were enrolled. CCTA was non-analyzable in 25 patients (8.9%). In the per-patient analysis, CCTA had a sensitivity of 89.6%, a specificity of 90.2%, a positive predictive value of 65.15%, and a negative predictive value of 97.7%. Only five patients were classified as false negatives on the CCTA. Despite some limitations of the study, CCTA seems reliable for CAD screening in patients without known CAD who are candidates for TAVI. By using CCTA, ICA could be avoided in patients with a CAD-RADS score ≤ 2, which represents 74.8% of patients.

International audience; Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential additional value of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in the assessment of left ventricular (LV) dilatation and dysfunction by comparison to standard echocardiography in patients with chronic left-sided valvular regurgitation.Materials and methods: We prospectively enrolled patients with chronic severe mitral regurgitation (MR) or aortic regurgitation (AR). They underwent standard echocardiography and CMR using aortic flow and LV-function sequences. LV dilatation or dysfunction was assessed with each technique, based on thresholds used for surgery indication. Reference regurgitation severity was defined following previously reported CMR-based regurgitant volume thresholds.Results: A total of 71 patients with chronic severe MR (n= 44) or severe AR (n= 27) were prospectively included. There were 60 men and 11 women with a mean age of 61 + 14 (SD) years (range: 18-83 years). CMR-based regurgitation severity was significantly greater in the LV dysfunction group when assessed with CMR (MR, P = 0.011; AR, P= 0.006) whereas it was not different when LV dysfunction was assessed using standard echocardiography. Among standard echocardiography and CMR volumetric indices, CMR-derived end-diastolic volume showed the best ability to predict regurgitation severity (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.78 for MR; AUC = 0.91 for AR). Diagnostic thresholds identified on receiver operating characteristics-curve analysis were lower than those of current European recommendations and closer to North-American guidelines.Conclusion: CMR assessment of LV end-diastolic volume in chronic severe left-sided regurgitations is more reliably associated with CMR-based regurgitant volume by comparison with standard echocardiography diameter. CMR may provide useful evaluation before surgery decision for severe asymptomatic regurgitations. (C) 2020 Societe francaise de radiologie.

International audience; Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart defect with a high index of heritability. Patients with BAV have different clinical course and disease progression.Herein, we report three siblings with BAV and clinical differences. Their clinical presentations include moderate to severe aortic regurgitation, aortic stenosis, and ascending aortic aneurysm. Genetic investigation was carried out using Whole Exome Sequencing for the three patients. We identified two non-synonymous variants in ROBO1 and GATA5 genes. The ROBO1: p.(Ser327Pro) variant is shared by the three BAV affected siblings. The GATA5: p.(Gln3Arg) variant is shared only by the two brothers who presented BAV and ascending aortic aneurysm. Their sister who is affected by BAV without aneurysm does not harbor the GATA5: p.(Gln3Arg) variant. Both variants were absent in the patients’ fourth brother who is clinically healthy with tricuspid aortic valve. To our knowledge, this is the first association of ROBO1 and GATA5 variants in a familial BAV with a potential genotype/phenotype correlation. Our findings are suggestive of the implication of ROBO1 gene in BAV and GATA5: p.(Gln3Arg) variant in ascending aortic aneurysm. Our family-based study further confirms the intrafamilial incomplete penetrance of BAV as well as the complex pattern of inheritance of the disease.

We evaluated the incidence, prognosis, and predictive factors of new onset of persistent left bundle branch block (NOP-LBBB) after rapid-deployment aortic valve replacement (RD-AVR).This was an observational, retrospective, single-center study of 274 consecutive patients with no baseline ventricular conduction disorder and no previous permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) who underwent RD-AVR with an INTUITY valve (n = 55) or INTUITY Elite Valve (n = 219) (Edwards Lifesciences). Transthoracic echocardiography and 12-lead electrocardiography was performed preoperatively, at discharge, and at 1-month and 1-year intervals. The incidence, prognosis, and predictive factors of NOP-LBBB were evaluated.NOP-LBBB occurred in 58 patients (21.2%) after discharge. In multivariate analysis, age (P.01), INTUITY valve diameter ≥23 mm (P = .02), and INTUITY Elite implantation (P = .01) were independent predictors of NOP-LBBB. By 1:1 propensity matching analysis between the NOP-LBBB group and the control group, there were no significant differences in 1-year overall mortality (P = .23), hospitalization for congestive heart failure (P = .99), or PPI (P = .99). NOP-LBBB exposed patients to a high rate of dysrhythmic events (12.1% vs 1.4%, P.01) and was associated with a significant decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (0.62 ± 0.095 vs 0.652 ± 0.0783, P = .02) without an impact on New York Heart Association functional status (1.25 ± 0.32 and 1.52 ± 0.70, P = .32). PPI was performed in 17 patients (6.2%) before discharge, including 14 NOP-LBBB patients.NOP-LBBB after RD-AVR is prevalent in patients with no prior conduction disorders. INTUITY Elite is associated with a significantly higher rate of NOP-LBBB. The persistence of NOP-LBBB predisposed patients to the occurrence of high-grade conduction disorders and might have led to PPI but did not increase death or hospitalization for congestive heart failure.

International audience; Gender-differences in survival following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) have been suggested. The objective of this study was to analyze outcomes following TAVR according to gender and to compare outcomes between TAVR and SAVR in women, at a nationwide level. Based on the French administrative hospital-discharge database, the study collected information for all consecutive patients treated with TAVR and SAVR between 2010 and 2019. Outcomes were analyzed according to gender and propensity score matching was used for the analysis of outcomes. In total 71,794 patients were identified in the database. After matching on baseline characteristics, we analyzed 12,336 women and 12,336 men treated with TAVR. In a second matched analysis, we compared 9,297 women treated with TAVR and 9,297 women treated with SAVR. Long term follow-up showed lower risk of all-cause death (12.7% vs 14.8%, hazard ratio (HR) 0.85, 95% CI 0.81 to 0.90) in women than men. Although the difference in cardiovascular death remained non-significant (5.8% vs 6.0%, HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.05), non-cardiovascular death was less frequent in women than in men following TAVR (6.9% vs 8.8% HR 0.78, 95%CI 0.72 to 0.84).When TAVR was compared with SAVR in women, long-term follow-up with TAVR showed higher rates of all-cause death (11.2% vs 6.5%, HR 1.91, 95%CI 1.78 to 2.05), cardiovascular death (5.0% vs 3.2%, HR 1.44, 95%CI 1.30 to 1.59), and non-cardiovascular death (6.2% vs 3.3%, HR 2.48, 95% CI 2.25 to 2.72). In conclusion, we observed that women undergoing TAVR have lower longterm all-cause mortality as compared with TAVR in men, driven by non-cardiovascular mortality. SAVR was associated with lower rates of long-term cardiovascular adverse events in women as compared with TAVR.

International audience; Background. - Valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a treatment for aortic bioprosthesis failure in case of prohibitive risk for redo surgery. However, clinical evaluation of valve-in-valve TAVI remains limited by the number of patients analysed.Aim. - To evaluate outcomes of valve-in-valve TAVI compared with native aortic valve TAVI at a nationwide level in France.Methods. - Based on the French administrative hospital discharge database, the study collected information for all consecutive patients treated with TAVI for aortic stenosis or with isolated valve-in-valve TAVI for aortic bioprosthesis failure between 2010 and 2019. Propensity score matching was used for the analysis of outcomes.Results. - A total of 44,218 patients were found in the database. After matching on baseline characteristics, 2749 patients were analysed in each arm. At 30 days, no significant differences were observed regarding the occurrence of major clinical events (composite of cardiovascular mortality, all-cause stroke, myocardial infarction, major or life-threatening bleeding and conversion to open heart surgery) (odds ratio [OR] 0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68-1.01; P = 0.32). During follow-up (mean 516 days), the combined endpoint of cardiovascular death, all-cause stroke or rehospitalization for heart failure was not different between the valve-in-valve TAVI and native TAVI groups (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.94-1.13; P = 1.00).Conclusion. - We observed that valve-in-valve TAVI was associated with good short- and long-term outcomes. No significant differences were observed compared with native valve TAVI regarding clinical follow-up. (C) 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS.

Background: There is insufficient evidence regarding the comparison of Rapid Deployment aortic valve replacement(RDAVR) to TAVR in intermediate-risk patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis(AS) Aims: We compare the 2-years outcomes between RDAVR with INTUITY and TAVR with SAPIEN 3 in intermediate-risk patients with AS. Methods: Inclusion criteria: severe AS implanted with RDAVR or TAVR; EUROSCORE II ≥ 4% and clinical evaluation by Heart Team. Regression adjustment for the propensity score was used to compare RDAVR with TAVR(1:1). Primary endpoint: composite criterion of death, disabling stroke or rehospitalization. Secondary endpoints: occurrence of major bleeding post-operative complications, paravalvular regurgitation (PVR)≥2 and patient-prosthesis mismatch(PPM) at 1 month and pacemaker implantation at 2 years. Results: A total of 152 patients were included from 2012 to 2018: 48 in the RDAVR group and 104 in the TAVR group. Mean age was 82.7±6, 51.3% were female, mean Euroscore II was 6.03±1.6% and mean baseline LVEF was 56±13%,mean indexed iEOA was 0.41±0.1cm/m2, mean gradient was 51.7±14.7mmHg. Patients with RDAVR were younger(79.5±6vs82.6±6,p=0.01), at higher risk (EUROSCORE2 6,61±1,8%vs5,63±1,5%, p=0.005), combined surgery was performed in 28 patients(58.3%). Twenty-two patients(45.99%) met the primary outcome in the RDAVR group and 32 patients(66.67%) in the TAVR group. By 1:1propensity score matching analysis, there was a significant difference between both groups in favor of RDAVR(HR=0.58[95%CI:0.34;1.00],p=0.04). No difference were observed in PPM occurrence(0.83;[0.35-1.94];p=0.67),major bleeding events(1.33;[0.47-3.93];p=0.59),PVR≥2(0.33[0-6.28],p=0.46), and pacemaker implantation (0.84[0.25-2.84],p=0.77).Conclusion: RDAVR is associated with better 2-years outcomes than TAVR in intermediate-risk patients with severe symptomatic AS.

International audience; BACKGROUND Valve-in-valve (VIV) transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and redo surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) represent the 2 treatments for aortic bioprosthesis failure. Clinical comparison of both therapies remains limited by the number of patients analyzed. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes of VIV TAVR versus redo SAVR at a nationwide level in France.METHODS Based on the French administrative hospital-discharge database, the study collected information for patients treated for aortic bioprosthesis failure with isolated VIV TAVR or redo SAVR between 2010 and 2019. Propensity score matching was used for the analysis of outcomes.RESULTS A total of 4,327 patients were found in the database. After matching on baseline characteristics, 717 patients were analyzed in each arm. At 30 days, VIV TAVR was associated with lower rates of the composite of all-cause mortality, all-cause stroke, myocardial infarction, and major or life-threatening bleeding (odds ratio: 0.62; 95% confidence interval: 0.44 to 0.88; p = 0.03). During follow-up (median 516 days), the combined endpoint of cardiovascular death, all-cause stroke, myocardial infarction, or rehospitalization for heart failure was not different between the 2 groups (odds ratio: 1.18; 95% confidence interval: 0.99 to 1.41; p = 0.26). Rehospitalization for heart failure and pacemaker implantation were more frequently reported in the VIV TAVR group. A time-dependent interaction between all-cause and cardiovascular mortality following VIV TAVR was reported (p-interaction

Objectives: This study sought to describe the current practices and compare outcomes according to the use of balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) or not during transcatheter aortic valve repl...

Background: Two competing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) technologies are currently available. Head-to-head comparisons of the relative performances of these 2 devices have been published. However, long-term clinical outcome evaluation remains limited by the number of patients analyzed, in particular, for recent-generation devices. Methods: Based on the French administrative hospital-discharge database, the study collected information for all consecutive patients treated with a TAVR device commercialized in France between 2014 and 2018. Propensity score matching was used for the analysis of outcomes during follow-up. The objective of this study was to analyze the outcomes of TAVR according to Sapien 3 balloon-expandable (BE) versus Evolut R self-expanding TAVR technology at a nationwide level in France. Results: A total of 31 113 patients treated with either Sapien 3 BE or Evolut R self-expanding TAVR were found in the database. After matching on baseline characteristics, 20 918 patients were analyzed (10 459 in each group with BE or self-expanding valves). During follow-up (mean [SD], 358 [384]; median [interquartile range], 232 [10–599] days), BE TAVR was associated with a lower yearly incidence of all-cause death (relative risk, 0.88; corrected P =0.005), cardiovascular death (relative risk, 0.82; corrected P =0.002), and rehospitalization for heart failure (relative risk, 0.84; corrected P P Conclusions: On the basis of the largest cohort available, we observed that Sapien 3 BE valves were associated with lower rates of all-cause death, cardiovascular death, rehospitalization for heart failure, and pacemaker implantation after a TAVR procedure.

Background 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (18F-FDG PET) has been shown to be useful for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE), but its prognostic value remains unknown. Objectives This study sought to assess the prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in prosthetic (PVE) and native valve endocarditis (NVE). Methods We prospectively studied 173 consecutive patients (109 PVE and 64 NVE) with definite IE who underwent an 18F-FDG PET/CT study and were follow-up for one year. Primary end-point was a composite of major cardiac events i.e. death, recurrence of IE, acute cardiac failure, non-scheduled hospitalization for cardiovascular reason, and new embolic event. Results 18F-FDG PET/CT was positive in 100 (58%) patients, 83% (n = 90/109) in the PVE and 16% (n = 10/64) in the NVE group. At a mean follow of 225 days (199 to 251 days), the primary end-point occurred in 94 (54%) patients, 63 (58%) in the PVE group and 31 (48%) in the NVE group. In the PVE group, positive 18F-FDG PET/CT was significantly associated with higher rate of primary end-point (OR = 2.6, IC95% = 1.04 to 6.6; P = 0.04). Moderate to intense 18F-FDG valvular uptake was also associated with worse outcome (OR = 2.1; IC95% = 1.1 to 4.0; P = 0.03) and to new embolic events, (OR = 7.5; IC95% = 1.24 to 45.2) P = 0.03). In the NVE group, 18F-FDG PET/CT was not associated with occurrence of the primary end-point. Conclusion In addition to be an accurate diagnostic tool, 18F-FDG PET/CT is predictive of major cardiac events in PVE and of embolic events during the first year following IE episode.

Background 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) has been shown to be useful for the diagnosis of IE, but its prognostic value is unknown. Objectives This study sought to assess the prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in prosthetic (PVE) and native valve endocarditis (NVE). Methods We prospectively studied 173 consecutive patients (109 PVE and 64 NVE) with definite IE who underwent a 18F-FDG PET/CT study and were follow-up for one year. Primary end-point was a composite of major cardiac events i.e. death, recurrence of IE, acute cardiac failure, non-scheduled hospitalization for cardiovascular reason, and new embolic event Results 18F-FDG PET/CT was positive in 98 (57%) patients, 82% (n=88/109) in the PVE and 16% (n=10/64) in the NVE group. At a mean follow of 225±18 days, the primary end-point occurred in 94 (55%) patients, 63 (58%) in the PVE group and 31 (48%) in the NVE group. In the PVE group, positive 18F-FDG PET/CT was significantly associated with higher rate of primary end-point (OR=2.6, IC95%=1.04 to 6.6; p=0.04). Moderate to intense 18F-FDG valvular uptake was also associated with worse outcome (OR=2.1; IC95%=1.1 to 4.0; p=0.03) and to new embolic events, (OR: 8.8; IC95%= 1.1 to 69.5; p=0.02). In the NVE group, 18F-FDG PET/CT was not associated with occurrence of the primary end-point. Conclusion In addition to be an accurate diagnostic tool, 18F-FDG PET/CT is predictive of major cardiac events in PVE and to embolic events during the first year following IE episode

Background Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe disease requiring early diagnosis and treatment. Although echocardiography (ECHO) is the key diagnostic method, CT-scan (CT) has recently been added as a new ESC diagnostic criterion. However, published data are scarce and included few patients Purpose To assess the additional value of CT over ECHO for the diagnosis of IE Methods Between 2014 and 2017, 246 pts with suspected IE underwent both ECHO and CT. Using the expert consensus of the Endocarditis Team after a 3-month follow-up as gold standard, 222 IE were confirmed (112 native [NVE] and 110 prosthetic [PVE]) and 24 were rejected. The primary end-point was the comparison between ECHO and cardiac CT (CCT) findings. The secondary end-point was the change in diagnostic criteria sensitivity and specificity associated with the addition of CT results. Results 1. Among the 110 cases of definite PVE, – Vegetations were found in 49 (44%) pts by ECHO and 45 (40%) by CCT (agreement in 71 [64%] pts). – Periannular lesions were found in 33 (30%) pts by ECHO and 46 (41%) by CCT (agreement in 86 [77%] pts). – CCT found a new cardiac lesion missed by ECHO in 10 (9%) pts. 2. Among the 112 cases of definite NVE, – Vegetations were found in 84 (76%) pts by ECHO and 90 (81%) by CCT (agreement in 84 [76%] pts). – Periannular lesions were found in 34 (30%) pts by ECHO and 29 (26%) by CCT (agreement in 58 [52%] pts). – CCT found a new cardiac lesion missed by ECHO in 3 (3%) pts. 3. Including CT findings as major and minor criteria increased the sensitivity of Duke criteria from 60 to 70% in 124 suspected PVE, and from 73 to 80% in 122 suspected NVE, without significant decrease in specificity. Conclusions 1. This study is the largest prospective study assessing the value of CT in the diagnosis of IE. 2. Adding CT findings significantly increases the sensitivity of Duke criteria, both in NVE and PVE. 3. Our results support the use of ESC criteria including CT rather than Duke criteria.

Introduction Bicuspid aortic-valve (BAV) is the most common congenital malformation. Complications include aortic stenosis and regurgitation, endocarditis, aortic dilatation and dissection. Although BAV is associated with early valve degeneration, its pathophysiology remains unknown. Purpose The objective of this study was to examine at clinical, histological and molecular levels, a cohort of BAV patients with pure aortic regurgitation (AR-BAV). Methods From 2011 to 2018, patients with BAV were prospectively included. We performed histological and transcriptomic analysis of explanted BAV and compared differences between characteristics of prolapsed leaflet and non-prolapsed leaflet, using a normal tricuspid valve leaflet at reference. Aortic-valves from patients with long term left ventricular assist device (LVAD) were used as a model of acquired aortic regurgitation. Results A total of 350 patients with BAV were included. Among 316 patients (90%) with dysfunctional BAV, 66 (21%) presented severe AR-BAV. Mechanism of AR was prolapse in 37 patients (56%). Histologically, analysis of 2 explanted AR-BAV showed disorganization of extracellular matrix, loss of laminar structure and proteoglycans accumulation on prolapsed leaflet. Inversely, trilaminar structure of the non-prolapsed aortic leaflet was preserved. Transcriptomic analysis revealed upregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix homeostasis and downregulation of endothelial cell markers on the prolapsed leaflet. The aortic-valve LVAD analysis found histological and molecular results similar to those described in BAV prolapsed leaflet and was associated with occurrence AR. Conclusion AR-BAV is a mood of BAV dysfunction that occurs in young male subjects, as a consequence of myxomatous degeneration similar to that described in mitral valve prolapse. LVAD model suggests that altered hemodynamic environment could account for the acquired nature of valve degeneration.

Background Among intermediate-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis(AS),trans-catheter aortic-valve replacement(TAVR)and conventional aortic-valve replacement provide similar outcomes. However, data are missing to compare Rapid-deployment aortic-valve replacement(RDAVR)and TAVR. Purpose We compare the 1year outcomes of RDAVR with INTUITY and TAVR with SAPIEN 3 in intermediate-risk patients. Methods Inclusion criteria: severe symptomatic aortic stenosis implanted with TAVR or RDAVR; intermediate risk defined with 4≤EUROSCORE2≤10. Regression adjustment for the propensity score was used to compare RDAVR patients with TAVR patients. Patients follow-up was 2years. Primary endpoints: composite of death, stroke, or rehospitalization. Secondary endpoints: occurrence of major bleeding complication, paravalvular regurgitation ≥ grade 1(PVR), patient-prosthesis mismatch (PPM)and pacemaker implantation. Results A total of 152 patients were included from September 2012 to April 2017:104 in the TAVR group and 48 in the RDAVR group. Mean age was 82,7 ± 6, 48.7% male, mean Euroscore II was 6.03 ± 1.6% and mean baseline LVEF was 56 ± 13%,mean indexed AVA was 0.41 ± 0.1 cm/m2, mean gradient was 51.7 ± 14.7 mmHg. Patients with RDAVR were younger(79,5 ± 6 vs. 84,2 ± 6, P Conclusion RDAVR with INTUITY provides similar 1 year outcomes and better 2 years outcomes than TAVR with SAPIEN3 despite a higher EUROSCORE2 and more combined surgery.

Background In infective endocarditis (IE), neurological complications (NC) may be a cause of delayed cardiac surgery. However, whether this delay impact prognosis or not is unknown. Purpose To evaluate prognosis in patients presenting IE with NC compared to a control group. To describe the impact of temporary surgical contraindication on patient mortality and evaluate the predictive factors for death among patients with NC. Methods In a prospective single-center study, all patients with IE had a systematic screening for cerebral complication. Six months mortality was compared and in patients presenting NC, prognosis according to surgical status was analyzed. The Cox regression model was used to analyze variables predictive of mortality in case of NC. Results Between 2014 and 2018, 351 patients with a diagnosis of left-sided IE were included. 94 patients (26.8%) presented at least one NC. Fifty-nine patients (17.9%) died in the first 6 months of follow-up. Six-months mortality was not significantly different between patients with NC and the control group (P = 0.6). Regarding patients with NC, mortality was higher in non-operated vs. operated patients when cardiac surgery was indicated (P = 0.02). Forty patients had temporary surgical contraindication due to NC. During the period of surgical contraindication, 7 patients (17.5%) died, 6 patients (15%) presented new embolic event, 12 patients (30%) presented cardiac or septic deterioration. By multivariate analysis, predictive factors for mortality among patients with NC were temporary surgical contraindication (HR 7.36; 95% CI 1.61–33.67; P = 0.01) and existence of mechanical prosthetic valve (HR 16.4; 95% CI 2.22–121.17; P = 0.006). Conclusion With current management of IE, mortality of patients with NC is not higher than in control patients. Patients with temporary surgical contraindication because of NC were high-risk patients: they presented a higher risk of death and frequent major complications while waiting for surgery.

Current trials and registries of transcatheter valve implantation (TAVI) mostly include patients older than 75 years. Little is known about younger patients who undergo this treatment. We investigated comorbidities among patients 75 years old who underwent TAVI in the SAPIEN 3™ European post-approval SOURCE 3 Registry, and analysed outcomes at 30 days and 1 year.Three age groups of patients were analysed for outcomes and characteristics: 75 (n = 235), 75-80 (n = 391) and ≥ 80 years (n = 1320). Overall, the mean age was 81.6 ± 6.7 years; transfemoral access was used in 87.1% of patients treated with SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valves. The mean logistic EuroSCORE increased according to age group (12.6%, 17.3% and 19.7%, respectively, p 0.001). Younger patients had a higher incidence of comorbidities, particularly those not included in surgical risk score assessment tools, e.g., severe liver disease, previous radiation therapy, and porcelain aorta. Mortality rates were similar between age groups at 30 days (1.7%, 2.0% and 2.3%, respectively, p = 0.79) and 1 year (14.2%, 9.3% and 13.3%, respectively, p = 0.08). However, sudden cardiac death rates were higher in the 75 years age group compared with the ≥ 85 years age group (20.7% vs. 4.8%, p = 0.010).In current TAVI practice, patients younger than 75 years are a minority (12%). Despite younger age and lower surgical risk scores, this cohort was characterized by comorbidities not accounted for by traditional surgical risk scores. More data are needed for this age group to guide the appropriate decision between surgery and TAVI. CLINICALTRIAL.NCT02698956.

This study sought to describe the current practices and compare outcomes according to the use of balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) or not during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).Since its development, aortic valve pre-dilatation has been an essential step of TAVR procedures. However, the feasibility of TAVR without systematic BAV has been described.TAVR performed in 48 centers across France between January 2013 and December 2015 were prospectively included in the FRANCE TAVI (Registry of Aortic Valve Bioprostheses Established by Catheter) registry. We compared outcomes according to BAV during the TAVR procedure.A total of 5,784 patients have been included in our analysis, corresponding to 2,579 (44.6%) with BAV avoidance and 3,205 (55.4%) patients with BAV performed. We observed a progressive decline in the use of BAV over time (78% of procedures in 2013 and 49% in the last trimester of 2015). Avoidance of BAV was associated with similar device implantation success (97.3% vs. 97.6%; p = 0.40). TAVR procedures without BAV were quicker (fluoroscopy 17.2 ± 9.1 vs. 18.5 ± 8.8 min; p 0.01) and used lower amounts of contrast (131.5 ± 61.6 vs. 141.6 ± 61.5; p 0.01) and radiation (608.9 ± 576.3 vs. 667.0 ± 631.3; p 0.01). The rates of moderate to severe aortic regurgitation were lower with avoidance of BAV (8.3% vs. 12.2%; p 0.01) and tamponade rates (1.5% vs. 2.3%; p = 0.04).We confirmed that TAVR without BAV is frequently performed in France with good procedural results. This procedure is associated with procedural simplification and lower rates of residual aortic regurgitation.

Background Little is known about the impact of prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM) on outcomes after trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We reported previously an increased risk of PPM with Sapien 3 transcatheter Heart valve (S3-THV). Purpose We aimed to investigate the one-year outcomes of patients operated on for severe aortic stenosis (AS) with S3-THV based on the occurrence of PPM. Methods Indexed effective orifice area (iEOA) was estimated by post-procedural echocardiography(TTE). PPM was defined as moderate when 0.65 cm2 ≤ Ieoa ≤ 0.85 cm2, or severe if iEOA Results A total of 227 consecutives patients were included between January 2015 and December 2016. Of the 208 patients with complete follow-up, mean age was 81.9 ± 6, mean Euroscore2 was 4.35 ± 3.4, mean baseline LVEF was 58 ± 13%. At post-procedural TTE, moderate and severe PPM were observed in 69 (33%) and 10 (4.8%) patients respectively. Patients with PPM were younger (80.4 ± 7 vs. 82.9 ± 5, P = 0.007), had a larger body surface area (1.84 ± 0.19 vs. 1.77 ± 0.19, P = 0.01), a lower iEAO (0.73 ± 0.1 vs. 1.1 ± 0.2, P Conclusion PPM after TAVR with S3-THV is not a risk factor for midterm mortality but is an independent predictor of CHF, especially in the subset of patients with MR ≥2.

International audience; OBJECTIVE: Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) are a rare complication of infective endocarditis (IE). Only case reports and small studies have been published to date. We report the largest series of ACS in IE. The aim of our study was to describe the incidence and mechanisms of ACS associated with IE, to assess their prognostic impact and to describe their management. METHODS: In a bicentre prospective observational cohort study, all patients with a definite diagnosis of IE were prospectively included. The incidence, mechanism and prognosis of patients with ACS were studied. RESULTS: Among 1210 consecutive patients with definite IE, 26 patients (2.2%) developed an ACS. Twenty-three patients (88%) had a coronary embolism. Two patients had coronary compression by an abscess or a pseudoaneurysm and one patient had an obstruction of his bioprosthesis and left coronary ostium by a large vegetation. Nineteen (73%) patients with ACS developed heart failure and this complication was 2.5 times more frequent than in patients without ACS (p\textless0.0001). In the ACS population, mortality rate was twice than the population without ACS. CONCLUSIONS: ACS is a rare complication of IE but is associated with an increased risk of heart failure and high mortality rate.

International audience; Coxiella burnetii is an intracellular and fastidious bacterium responsible of acute and persistent Q fever infection. Endocarditis and vascular infections are the most common serious complications of acute Q fever. We report the case of a 63-year-old man that presented a mediastinitis associated with a prosthetic vascular infection. Serological cross-reaction was observed between Coxiella burnetii, the agent of Q fever, and Legionella pneumophila with higher antibodies titer for L. pneumophila (IgG = 1:512) than for C. burnetii (phase I IgG = 1:400). We performed western blot with cross-adsorption that supports the diagnosis of C. burnetii infection. Two weeks later, a positive qPCR and culture for C. burnetii on swab taken from the mediastinal cutaneous fistula confirmed the definitive microbiological diagnosis of Q fever mediastinitis. Cross-reactivity between C. burnetii and Legionella spp. has long been known and should be considered in patients with persistent infections. It is important to establish the definite diagnosis because the antibiotic treatment regimens and duration are significantly different. To the best of our knowledge, we reported here the first case of mediastinitis associated to C. burnetii and we diagnosed this persistent infection despite low anti-C. burnetii phase I IgG levels.

International audience; Objectives: Much progress has been made in understanding the main causes of blood culture-negative endocarditis (BCNE). Few studies concerning BCNE treatment (due to previous antibiotics used or fastidious pathogens) are available. We performed this study to evaluate the effectiveness of our therapeutic protocol in BCNE, based on compliance with the protocol, outcome and 1 year mortality. Patients and methods: We collected prospectively and analysed retrospectively cases of BCNE between 2002 and 2014, using a simplified and standardized protocol developed by our multidisciplinary team. We apply two kinds of protocols to treat BCNE, which include only four intravenous antimicrobial agents: amoxicillin, vancomycin, gentamicin and amphotericin B. Results: We had 177 patients with definite BCNE. There were 154 (87.0%) patients treated with both appropriate antimicrobial agents and appropriate duration of treatment. We analysed the causes of inappropriate treatment in 13 (7.3%) cases and inappropriate duration in 10 (5.6%) cases. The treatment changes were justified in all cases except one of discharge against medical advice. The fatality rate was 5.1% (nine cases) and all deaths occurred in the group of patients who were treated with appropriate treatment; however, four deaths were not attributable to empirical treatment failure. Concerning the other deaths, the lack of surgical management, in association with empirical treatment, could explain our protocol's failure, such as poorly tolerated surgery. Conclusions: Our protocol is efficient and our mortality rate was low, compared with the literature review. This may result from a strategy that uses a sampling procedure and a standardized protocol at the same time.

Background The physiopathology of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) degeneration remains unknown. Altered hemodynamic environment could favor valve degeneration. Aim (1) To compare clinical and echocardiographic data of normally functioning and dysfunctional BAV; and (2) to correlate BAV phenotype to valve function. Methods Consecutive patients with normally functioning (NF-BAV) or dysfunctional BAV (D-BAV) were prospectively included. Sievers’ classification was used to compare BAV regarding valve function. Results A total of 223 patients with BAV were prospectively included. Mean age was 52.9 ± 16.5 years with a male predominance (n = 168, 75.3%). Twenty-four patients had NF-BAV and 199 patients had D-BAV. One hundred and seventy-eight patients (82.4%) had a Sievers’ type 1 BAV, mainly with an intercoronary leaflet fusion (n = 155, 87.1%). BAV aortopathy was found in 86 patients (38.5%). By multivariable analysis, age > 50 years (5.5 [2.2–17.4], P = 0.0006), male gender (3.4 [1.2–9.3], P = 0.01) and the presence of a raphe (3.6 [1.2–9.9], P = 0.01) were significantly associated with BAV dysfunction. Among D-BAV, 68 patients (34%) had AS and 91 patients (45%) had AR. Multivariate analysis revealed that a higher age (1.9 [1.85–1.94], P Fig. 1 ). Conclusions Commissural fusion of aortic cusps is associated with BAV dysfunction. By altering aortic blood flow and stiffening fused leaflet, the raphe could accelerate valve degeneration. These results suggested the emerging role of mechanobiology in BAV degeneration.

Background Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe disease requiring early diagnosis and treatment. Although echocardiography (ECHO) is the key diagnostic method, CT-scan (CT) has recently been added as a new ESC diagnostic criterion. However, published data are scarce and included few patients. Purpose To assess the additional value of CT over ECHO for the diagnosis of IE. Methods Between 2014 and 2017, 246 pts with suspected IE underwent both ECHO and CT. Using the expert consensus of the Endocarditis Team after a 3-month follow-up as gold standard, 222 IE were confirmed (112 native [NVE] and 110 prosthetic [PVE]) and 24 were rejected. The primary end-point was the comparison between ECHO and cardiac CT (CCT) findings. The secondary end-point was the change in diagnostic criteria sensitivity and specificity associated with the addition of CT results. Results Among the 110 cases of definite PVE, Vegetations were found in 49 (44%) pts by ECHO and 45 (40%) by CCT (agreement in 71 [64%] pts). Periannular lesions were found in 33 (30%) pts by ECHO and 46 (41%) by CCT (agreement in 86 [77%] pts). CCT found a new cardiac lesion missed by ECHO in 10 (9%) pts. Among the 112 cases of definite NVE, Vegetations were found in 84 (76%) pts by ECHO and 90 (81%) by CCT (agreement in 84 [76%] pts). Periannular lesions were found in 34 (30%) pts by ECHO and 29 (26%) by CCT (agreement in 58 [52%] pts). CCT found a new cardiac lesion missed by ECHO in 3 (3%) pts. Including CT findings as major and minor criteria increased the sensitivity of Duke criteria from 60 to 70% in 124 suspected PVE, and from 73 to 80% in 122 suspected NVE, without significant decrease in specificity. Conclusions This study is the largest prospective study assessing the value of CT in the diagnosis of IE. Adding CT findings significantly increases the sensitivity of Duke criteria, both in NVE and PVE. Our results support the use of ESC criteria including CT rather than Duke criteria.

Background and Objectives In native mitral valve infective endocarditis (NMVIE), the respective values of mitral valve repair (MVR) and mitral valve replacement (MVRP) are still debated. We compared MVR and MVRP in a large prospective series of pts operated on for NMVIE in La Timone Hospital, Marseille. Methods Between 2010 and 2017, 151 pts with NMVIE underwent early ( Results As compared with MVR, MVRP pts had more associated aortic abscess (15 vs 4%, P = 0.03), and more restrictive lesions (28 vs 3%, P Conclusion Early MVR for NMVIE is associated with better outcome than MVRP, without excess reoperation rate, residual mitral regurgitation, or recurrence. In experienced hands, early MVR is technically feasible in 76% of NMVIE and should be the preferred option in these pts.

Objectives This study sought to determine the value of 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ( 18 F-FDG PET/CT) for diagnosing prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE). Background The diagnosis of PVE remains challenging. In PVE cases, initial echocardiography is normal or inconclusive in almost 30%, leading to a decreased diagnostic accuracy for the modified Duke criteria. Methods We prospectively studied 72 consecutive patients suspected of having PVE. All of the patients were subjected to clinical, microbiological, and echocardiographic evaluation. Cardiac PET/CT was performed at admission. The final diagnosis was defined according to the clinical and/or pathological modified Duke criteria determined during a 3-month follow-up. Results Thirty-six patients (50%) exhibited abnormal FDG uptake around the site of the prosthetic valve. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and global accuracy were as follows (95% confidence interval): 73% (54% to 87%), 80% (56% to 93%), 85% (64% to 95%), 67% (45% to 84%), and 76% (63% to 86%), respectively. Adding abnormal FDG uptake around the prosthetic valve as a new major criterion significantly increased the sensitivity of the modified Duke criteria at admission (70% [52% to 83%] vs. 97% [83% to 99%], p = 0.008). This result was due to a significant reduction (p l 0.0001) in the number of possible PVE cases from 40 (56%) to 23 (32%). Conclusions The use of 18 F-FDG PET/CT was helpful for diagnosing PVE. The results of this study support the addition of abnormal FDG uptake as a novel major criterion for PVE.

a Departement de Cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Timone, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Universite, France b URMITE, CNRS-UMR 6236, Faculte de Medecine, Aix-Marseille Universite, France c Service de Chirurgie Cardiaque, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Timone, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Universite, France d Departement de Cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Amiens, France e INSERM, ERI 12, Amiens, France f Laboratoire de Microbiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Timone, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, Aix-Marseille Universite, France g Departement de Chirurgie Cardiaque, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Amiens, France h Departement d'Anesthesie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Amiens, France

Altered coronary blood flow occurs in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Adenosine strongly impacts blood flow mostly via adenosine AAortic and coronary tissues, and PBMC were sampled in 20 CAD patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery and consecutively included. Controls were PBMC obtained from 15 healthy subjects. Expression and activity of AExpression of A

A trend in the last decade to be surgically more aggressive in cases of Infective Endocarditis has developed, with promising results. The goals of surgical treatment in IE are to eradicate infected and necrotic tissues as well as to exclude neocavities (false aneurysm, abscess) and to restore the anatomy to preserve the valve function or to allow a prosthetic valve replacement. Approaches for Aortic Valve, Mitral Valve, Tricuspid Valve, and Multiple Valve Repair and Replacement are discussed. The options of Allograft and Prosthetics are discussed.

Background Mortality and morbidity associated with infective endocarditis may extend beyond successful treatment. The primary objective was to analyze rates, temporal changes, and predictors of excess mortality in patients surviving the acute phase of endocarditis. The secondary objective was to determine the rate of recurrence and the need for late cardiac surgery. Methods An observational cohort study was conducted at a university-affiliated tertiary medical center, among 328 patients who survived the active phase of endocarditis. We used age-, sex-, and calendar year–specific mortality hazard rates of the Bouches-du-Rhone French district population to calculate expected survival and excess mortality. The risk of recurrence and late valve surgery was also assessed. Result Compared with expected survival, patients surviving a first episode of endocarditis had significantly worse outcomes ( P = .001). The relative survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 92% (95% CI, 88%-95%), 86% (95% CI, 77%-92%), and 82% (95% CI, 59%-91%), respectively. This excess mortality was observed during the entire follow-up period but was the highest during the first year after hospital discharge. Most of the recurrences and late cardiac surgeries also occurred during this period. Women exhibited a higher risk of age-adjusted excess mortality (adjusted excess hazard ratio, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.05-3.82; P = .03). Comorbidity index, recurrence of endocarditis, and history of an aortic valve endocarditis in women were independent predictors of excess mortality. Conclusions These results justify close monitoring of patients after successful treatment of endocarditis, at least during the first year. Special attention should be paid to women with aortic valve damage.

Resume L’UMAC et l’UMAR permettent de mobiliser 7 j/7 et 24 h/24 une equipe medicale et paramedicale au chevet de patients dans un rayon d’action tres important. Cette mobilite et autonomie necessite un materiel d’assistance adapte. Pendant longtemps les equipes ont du s’accommoder d’instruments « bricoles » ou detournes de leur fonction premiere. Plus recemment devant l’engouement de l’assistance circulatoire et l’interet grandissant des laboratoires des dispositifs adaptes tant au niveau de la pompe elle-meme que des moyens de transport voient le jour. Nous decrivons notre experience quant aux diffi cultes materielles que nous avons rencontrees et les solutions que nous avons tente de mettre en œuvre.

To analyse characteristics and outcomes of infective endocarditis (IE) on bicuspid aortic valves (BAV) and to compare the risk of death according to the presence or absence of BAV.5-year observational study.Population of 856 patients with definite IE according to the Duke criteria from two tertiary centres (Amiens and Marseille, France).310 consecutive patients with definite native aortic valve IE enrolled between 1991 and 2007.Patients underwent transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography during hospitalisation. Surgery was performed on a case-by-case basis according to conventional guidelines.In-hospital mortality and 5-year overall mortality.Patients with BAV IE (n=50, 16%) were younger, had fewer comorbidities and a higher frequency of aortic perivalvular abscess (50%). Presence of BAV (OR 3.79 (1.97-7.28); p0.001) was independently predictive of abscess formation. Early surgery was performed in 36 BAV patients (72%) with a peri-operative mortality of 8.3%, comparable to that of patients with tricuspid aortic valve IE (p=0.89). BAV was not independently predictive of in-hospital mortality (OR 0.89 (0.28-2.85); p=0.84) or 5-year survival (HR 0.71 (0.37-1.36); p=0.30). Age, comorbidities, heart failure, Staphylococcus aureus and uncontrolled infection were associated with increased 5-year mortality in BAV patients.BAV is frequent in adults with native aortic valve IE. Patients with BAV IE incur high risk of abscess formation and require early surgery in almost three-quarters of cases. IE is a severe complication in the setting of BAV and warrants prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Background Surgical treatment of active aortic infective endocarditis is challenging, and the type of prosthesis to be implanted during the active phase remains controversial. Methods All consecutive patients with definite diagnosis of aortic infective endocarditis operated on during the active phase were included. Endpoints were in-hospital mortality and a combined endpoint including infective endocarditis recurrence, prostheses dysfunction, or long-term cardiovascular mortality. Results Among 127 consecutive patients, mean age 57 ± 15 years, 87% male, 30% with preexisting aortic prosthesis, and 63 (50%) with annulus abscess, 54 (43%) were treated with aortic homograft and 73 (57%) with conventional prosthesis. Median time between diagnosis and surgery was 10 days. In-hospital mortality was 9%, not different between homograft and conventional prostheses (11% versus 8%, p[ = 0.6). By multivariable analysis, prosthetic valve endocarditis (8.5 95% confidence interval: 2.2 to 33.6, ]p = 0.001) was the only variable independently associated with in-hospital mortality, which was not influenced by type valvular substitute ( p = 0.6), even in the subset with annulus abscess ( p = 0.2). Ten-year survival free from the combined endpoint was 44% ± 10%, not different between homograft and conventional prostheses (log rank p = 0.2). By multivariable analysis, comorbidity index (2.6 [1.05 to 6.3], p = 0.04) and prosthetic valve endocarditis (2.3 [1.2 to 4.6], p = 0.02) were independently predictive of the combined endpoint, which was not determined by type of valvular substitute ( p = 0.6) even in the subset with annulus abscess ( p = 0.5). Conclusions Implantation of conventional prostheses during the active phase of aortic endocarditis yields similar low operative mortality and long-term prognosis as compared with aortic homografts, even in patients with annulus abscess.