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Since the initial clinical description of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) over 60 years ago, sudden cardiac death (SCD) has been the most visible and feared complication of HCM.This study sought to characterize the temporal, geographic, and age-related trends of reported SCD rates in adult HCM patients.Electronic databases were systematically searched up to November 2021 for studies reporting on SCD event rates in HCM patients. Patients with SCD equivalents (appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator [ICD] shocks and nonfatal cardiac arrests) were not included. A random-effects model was used to pool study estimates calculating the overall incidence rates (IR) for each time-era, geographic region, and age group. We analyzed 2 periods (before vs after 2000, following clinical implementation of ICD in HCM). Following 2000, 5-year intervals were used to demonstrate the temporal change in SCD rates.A total of 98 studies (N = 70,510 patients and 431,407 patient-years) met our inclusion criteria. The overall rate of HCM SCD was 0.43%/y (95% CI: 0.37-0.50%/y; IContemporary HCM-related SCD rates are low (0.32%/y) representing a 2-fold decrease compared with prior treatment eras. Young HCM patients are at the highest risk. The maturation of SCD risk stratification strategies and the application of primary prevention ICD to HCM are likely responsible for the notable decline over time in SCD events. In addition, worldwide geographic disparities in SCD rates were evident, underscoring the need to increase access to SCD prevention treatment for all HCM patients.

Cardioprotective therapies represent an important avenue to reduce treatment-limiting cardiotoxicities in patients receiving chemotherapy. However, the optimal duration, strategy and long-term efficacy of empiric cardio-protection remains unknown.Leveraging the MEDLINE/Pubmed, CENTRAL and clinicaltrials.gov databases, we identified all randomised controlled trials investigating cardioprotective therapies from inception to November 2021 (PROSPERO-ID:CRD42021265006). Cardioprotective classes included ACEIs, ARBs, Beta-blockers, dexrazoxane (DEX), statins and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. The primary end-point was new-onset heart failure (HF). Secondary outcomes were the mean difference in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) change, hypotension and all-cause mortality. Network meta-analyses were used to assess the cardioprotective effects of each therapy to deduce the most effective therapies. Both analyses were performed using a Bayesian random effects model to estimate risk ratios (RR) and 95% credible intervals (95% CrI).Overall, from 726 articles, 39 trials evaluating 5931 participants (38.0 ± 19.1 years, 72.0% females) were identified. The use of any cardioprotective strategy associated with reduction in new-onset HF (RR:0.32; 95% CrI:0.19-0.55), improved LVEF (mean difference: 3.92%; 95% CrI:2.81-5.07), increased hypotension (RR:3.27; 95% CrI:1.38-9.87) and no difference in mortality. Based on control arms, the number-needed-to-treat for 'any' cardioprotective therapy to prevent one incident HF event was 45, including a number-needed-to-treat of 21 with ≥1 year of therapy. Dexrazoxane was most effective at HF prevention (Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking curve: 81.47%), and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists were most effective at preserving LVEF (Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking curve: 99.22%).Cardiotoxicity remains a challenge for patients requiring anticancer therapies. The initiation of extended duration cardioprotection reduces incident HF. Additional head-to-head trials are needed.

Background Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) during cardiac surgery in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients has been investigated in multiple studies with variable safety and efficacy results. Methods A comprehensive review was performed of all studies comparing LAAC and placebo arm during cardiac surgery in AF patients. A random-effect model was used to calculate risk ratios, mean differences, and 95% confidence intervals. Results Five randomized controlled trials and 22 observational studies were included with a total of 540,111 patients. The LAAC group had significantly decreased postoperative stroke/embolic events as compared to the no LAAC group with all cardiac surgeries (3.74% vs 4.88%, p = 0.0002), isolated valvular surgery (1.95% vs 4.48%, p = 0.002). However, CABG insignificantly favored the LAAC group for stroke/embolic events (6.72% vs 8.30%, p = 0.07). There was no difference between both groups in all-cause mortality in the perioperative period (p = 0.42), but was significantly lower in the LAAC arm after two years (14.1% vs 18.3%, p = 0.02). There was no difference in major bleeding, all-cause rehospitalizations, or cross-clamp time between both groups (p = 0.53 and p = 0.45). The bypass and the cross-clamp time were longer in the LAAC group (4 and 9 min, respectively). Conclusion In AF patients, LAAC during cardiac surgery had a decreased risk of stroke and long-term all-cause mortality. Additionally, there was no difference in major bleeding, all-cause rehospitalizations, or cross-clamp time.

Background Patients with cardiogenic shock requiring temporary support with percutaneous ventricular assist device, such as Impella (Abiomed, Inc.), can develop heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) which requires use of alternative purge solution anticoagulation. There are limited recommendations on use of anticoagulation other than standard Unfractionated Heparin in 5% dextrose solution. Case summary This case describes 69-year-old female who presented with symptoms of decompensated systolic heart failure and was found to be in cardiogenic shock and despite use of inotropes and vasopressors maintained low systolic blood pressure and low mixed venous oxygen saturation which lead to use of axillary Impella 5.0 (Abiomed, Inc.) who developed HIT. Purge solution anticoagulation was switched to Argatroban, but due to increased motor pressures, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) was successfully used to maintain proper motor pressures. Ultimately, patient was transferred to an outside facility for a transplant evaluation. Discussion This case demonstrates successful and safe use of tPA as an alternative purge solution although more data needed to support this finding.

Diabetes and hyperlipidemia are global epidemics that significantly increase the morbidity and mortality of the affected population. Several medications have been utilized to mitigate the risk of diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Insulin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones have been used for decades as antidiabetic medications. Statins are a cornerstone in hyperlipidemia management. Omega‐3 fatty acid supplementation has been used to treat hypertriglyceridemia with debatable effects on cardiovascular outcomes. In the past decade, multiple new discoveries have revolutionized the management of these disorders. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of oral anti-diabetic drugs with a unique mechanism of action. SGLT2 was proven to reduce cardiovascular events, including hospitalization for heart failure, with this benefit extending to patients without diabetes. PCSK9 inhibitors are a new class of antihyperlipidemic that significantly lowers plasma LDL-C on top of the conventional treatment. In this book chapter, we review the history of diabetes and hyperlipidemia medications and discuss the new classes of lipid-lowering and anti-diabetic medications and their associated cardioprotective benefits.

In contrast to atherosclerotic acute myocardial infarction (AMI), conservative therapy is considered preferable in the acute management of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) if clinically possible. The present study aimed to investigate factors associated with treatment strategy for SCAD. Women aged ≤60 years with AMI and SCAD were retrospectively identified in the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2010 to 2015 and were divided into revascularization and conservative therapy groups. The revascularization group (n = 1,273, 68.0%), compared with the conservative therapy group (n = 600, 32.0%), had ST-elevation AMI (STEMI) (anterior STEMI, 20.3% vs 10.5%; inferior STEMI, 25.1% vs 14.5%; p0.001) and cardiogenic shock (10.8% vs 1.8%; p0.001) more frequently. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that anterior STEMI (vs non-STEMI, odds ratio 2.89 [95% confidence interval 2.08 to 4.00]), inferior STEMI (2.44 [1.85 to 3.21]), and cardiogenic shock (5.13 [2.68 to 9.80]) were strongly associated with revascularization. Other factors associated with revascularization were diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, renal failure, and pregnancy/delivery-related conditions; whereas known fibromuscular dysplasia and admission to teaching hospitals were associated with conservative therapy. Propensity-score matched analyses (546 pairs) found no significant difference in in-hospital death, 30-day readmission, and recurrent AMI between the groups. In conclusion, STEMI presentation, hemodynamic instability, co-morbidities, and setting of treating hospital may affect treatment strategy in women with AMI and SCAD. Further efforts are required to understand which patients benefit most from revascularization over conservative therapy in the setting of SCAD causing AMI.

Introduction: Since hypertrophic cardiomyopathy(HCM) initial description, sudden cardiac death (SCD) has been the most feared complication of HCM. Hypothesis: Temporal, geographical, and age-related trends of SCD rates in HCM have drastically decreased over time. Methods: Databases were systematically searched to Nov 2021 for studies reporting on SCD event rates in HCM. Patients with SCD equivalents (appropriate ICD shocks and non-fatal SCD) were excluded. Random-e!ects model was utilized to pool study estimates calculating the overall incidence rates(IR) for each time-era, geographical region, and age-group. We analyzed 2 eras (before vs. after 2000, following implementation of ICD in HCM). Following 2000, 5-year intervals were used to reflect the temporal change in SCD. Results: 98 studies(N=70,510patients and 431,407patient-years) met inclusion criteria. Overall rate of HCM SCD was 0.43%/year (95% CI: 0.37-0.50%; I2=75%; SCD events:1,938; person-years of follow-up: 408,715), with young patients(2-fold-risk for SCD vs. adults(18- 60years) (IR:1.09%; 95% CI: 0.69-1.73% vs. IR: 0.43%; 95% CI: 0.37-0.50%)(P-value for subgroup di!erences: Conclusions: Contemporary HCM-related SCD are low (0.32%/year) representing a 2-fold decrease compared to prior treatment eras, with young HCM patients at the highest risk. SCD risk stratification maturation and primary prevention ICD application are likely responsible for the notable decline in SCD trends. Moreover, worldwide geographical disparities in SCD was evident, underscoring the need to increase access to SCD prevention for all HCM patients.

BackgroundPost-viral myocarditis has been associated with sudden cardiac death in athletes. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the concern of post-viral myocarditis impacting the professional athletic community has been present.Case summaryAn elite-level basketball player presented after a positive COVID-19 test with findings consistent with ventricular tachycardia related to myocardial fibrosis/scar from a COVID-19-related myocarditis. Although rare, COVID-19 myocarditis can occur. This case illustrates how the consensus guidelines for return-to-play correctly identified the player as high risk with appropriate downstream evaluation by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. The stepwise approach is illustrated in this case and highlights the utility and success of the algorithm when approaching athletes with COVID-19-related myocarditis risk and determining a return to exercise.DiscussionDiligence is required to identify competitive athletes with features suggestive of myocarditis at the initial presentation and with the return to exercise. Cardiopulmonary symptoms in the setting of recent COVID-19 infection should prompt additional testing in a stepwise fashion and often benefit from CMR in addition to the triad testing with electrocardiography, echocardiography, and cardiac troponin measurement to further investigate clinical presentations of COVID-19-related myocarditis.

Background Decompression sickness is a diving-related disease that results in various clinical manifestations, ranging from joint pain to severe pulmonary and CNS affection. Complications of this disease may sometimes persist even after treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy . In addition, it may hamper the quality of life by forcing divers to restrict their recreational practice. The presence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) increases the risk of decompression sickness by facilitating air embolization . Therefore, PFO closure may play a role in reducing such complications. However, PFO closure remains associated with its own set of risks and complications. We sought to assess the benefit and harm of PFO closure for the prevention of decompression sickness in divers. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase , CENTRAL, and Web of Science . Two-armed studies comparing the incidence of decompression sickness with or without PFO closure were included. We used a random-effects model to compute risk ratios comparing groups undergoing PFO closure to those not undergoing PFO closure. Results Four observational studies with a total of 309 divers (PFO closure: 141 and no closure: 168) met inclusion criteria. PFO closure was associated with a significantly lower incidence of decompression sickness (PFO-closure: 2.84%; no closure: 11.3%; RR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.89; NNTB = 11), with low heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). The mean follow-up was 6.12 years (Standard deviation 0.70). Adverse events occurred in 7.63% of PFO closures, including tachyarrhythmias and bleeding. Conclusion PFO closure may potentially reduce the risk of decompression sickness among divers; however, it is not free of potential downsides, with nearly one in thirteen patients in our analysis experiencing an adverse event.

Background: Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair of the mitral valve (TEER) has recently emerged as a viable treatment option in high-risk patients with severe mitral regurgitation. The present study ...

Data on the impact of economic status on Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and MitraClip (MC) is lacking. Patients who underwent TAVI and/or MC during 2012 to 2017 were identified in the Nationwide Readmission Database and divided by zip code estimated income quartile into 4 groups (Q1 to Q4). The utilization of TAVI and/or MC was defined as the number of TAVIs and/or MCs over all admissions with an aortic and/or mitral valve disease (AVD and/or MVD) and represented per 1,000 admissions. A total of 168,853 patients underwent TAVI; 20.6% in Q1, 26.3% in Q2, 27.3% in Q3, and 25.8% in Q4, while 15,387 patients underwent MC; 22% in Q1, 26.2% in Q2, 26.3% in Q3, and 25.5% in Q4. The annual utilization of TAVIs and/or MCs increased over the study period and was generally lower with lower income. In 2012, TAVI was performed for 8.2, 8.8, 10.8, and 11.3 per 1,000 AVD admissions in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. In 2017, TAVI was performed for 54.1, 65.1, 68.6, and 71 per 1,000 AVD admissions in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. In 2014, MC was performed for 1.6, 2.1, 1.8, and 1.9 per 1,000 MVD admissions in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. In 2017, MC was performed for 5.6, 6.5, 8, and 8 per 1,000 MVD admissions in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively. In-hospital mortality, stroke, and 30-day readmissions were generally comparable across groups. Lower-income patients may be underrepresented among patients undergoing TAVI and MC despite comparable outcomes. Further studies are needed to examine the etiologies behind these disparities and identify targeted strategies for its mitigation.

Background Kidney transplant is the preferred treatment for end-stage kidney disease due to a better quality of life and lower morbidity and mortality than dialysis. These patients are considered h...

Background: Lipid profiles have been used for the purposes of health screening and monitoring of the effects of lipid-lowering medications, especially in patients with diabetes who are prone to hyperlipidemia. Fasting for lipid profiles has been the norm for the past decades. This long-lasting tradition poses a risk of hypoglycemia, especially in patients with diabetes. Objective: Our aim is to review the overlooked occurrence of hypoglycemia in patients who fast for laboratory tests, especially lipid profile tests, and commute to the laboratory facility while fasting; a condition we titled “Fasting-Evoked En route Hypoglycemia in Diabetes patients” or “FEEHD”. We also review its prevalence and clinical impact on patients with diabetes. Methods: We undertook an extensive literature search using search engines such as PubMed and Google Scholar. We used the following keywords for the search: Fasting, Non-fasting; Hypoglycemia; Hypoglycemic Agents; Laboratory Tests; Glucose, Hypoglycemia, Lipid Profiles, FEEHD. Results: Our literature review has shown that the prevalence of FEEHD is alarmingly high (17-21% of patients at risk). This form of hypoglycemia is under recognized in the clinical practice despite its frequent occurrence. Recent changes in various international guidelines have uniformly endorsed the utilization of non-fasting lipid profiles as the new standard for obtaining lipid profiles with the exception of certain conditions. Multiple studies showed the efficacy of non-fasting lipid tests in comparison to fasting lipid tests, in routine clinical practice. Conclusion: We hope to increase awareness among clinicians about this overlooked and potentially harmful form of hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, which can be easily avoided. We also hope to call upon clinicians to consider changing the habit of ordering lipid profiles in the fasting state, which has been recently shown to be largely unnecessary in routine clinical settings, with few exceptions in selected cases.

OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare short-term outcomes between transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for pure aortic regurgitation (AR) and TAVR for aortic stenosis (AS). BACKGROUND In patients with severe pure AR for whom surgical valve replacement is infeasible, TAVR is sometimes used off-label. METHODS Using the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2016-2017, we retrospectively identified patients without prior valve surgery who underwent endovascular TAVR. We compared in-hospital and 30-day outcomes according to the type of aortic valve disease. RESULTS A total of 81,542 eligible patients were divided into the pure AR (n = 1,222, 1.50%), pure AS (n = 72,690, 89.1%), and AS + AR (n = 7,630, 9.36%) groups. In unadjusted analyses, the pure AR group, compared with the pure AS and AS + AR groups, showed a higher incidence of acute kidney injury (16.8% vs. 9.8% vs. 12.1%, respectively; p

OBJECTIVES This study sought to investigate the incidence and outcomes of surgical bailout (SB) after transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) with MitraClip. BACKGROUND TMVr poses a risk of serious procedural complications, possibly requiring urgent open surgery for SB. However, little is known about the risk of SB cases after TMVr. METHODS We retrospectively identified patients who underwent TMVr using the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2014-2017. SB was defined as open thoracotomy for heart and aorta during the same hospitalization. Annual hospital volume was defined as the annual number of TMVr cases in each hospital in each year. RESULTS Among 15,032 eligible patients, SB was required in 214 (1.42%), of whom 134 (62.6%) underwent mitral valve surgery (113 replacements; 21 repairs). The incidence of SB was decreasing significantly over the 4 years (5.26% in 2014; 0.43% in 2017; ptrend

Background: Pre-existing right bundle branch block (RBBB) is a strong predictor of increased need for a permanent pacemaker (PPM) following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Yet, further risk stratification and management remain challenging in patients with pre-existing RBBB owing to limited data. Therefore, we sought to investigate the incidence, predictors, and management of advanced conduction disturbances after TAVI in patients with pre-existing RBBB. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 261 consecutive patients with pre-existing RBBB (median age 81 years; 28.0% female; 95.0% received a balloon-expandable valve) without a pre-existing PPM who underwent TAVI at our institution in 2015-2019. Outcomes were high-degree atrioventricular block/complete heart block (HAVB/CHB) and PPM requirement. Results: Overall, the 30-day HAVB/CHB rate was 28.0%, of which 76.7% occurred during the TAVI procedure. The delayed HAVB/CHB rate was 8.3%. Implantation depth below aortic annulus (per 1-mm increase) was significantly associated with increased risk of procedural HAVB/CHB (adjusted odds ratio = 1.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.07-1.46), delayed HAVB/CHB (1.34 [1.01-1.79]), and 30-day PPM (1.32 [1.11-1.55]). Predilation was associated with delayed HAVB/CHB (4.02 [1.22-13.23]). The combination of no predilation and implantation depth of ≤2.0 mm had lower rates of procedural HAVB/CHB (11.2% vs. 26.7%-30.4%, p = 0.011), delayed HAVB/CHB (2.1% vs. 7.6%-28.1%, p < 0.001), and 30-day PPM (10.3% vs. 20.0%-43.5%, p < 0.001) than the other strategies of valve deployment. Complete HAVB/CHB recovery after PPM implantation was uncommon at 7.1%. Conclusions: In patients with pre-existing RBBB, the majority of HAVB/CHB events occurred during the TAVI procedure. Avoidance of predilation coupled with high valve deployment may result in relatively low rates of procedural and delayed HAVB/CHB, along with 30-day PPM rates.

Vitamin K2 serves an important role in cardiovascular health through regulation of calcium homeostasis. Its effects on the cardiovascular system are mediated through activation of the anti-calcific protein known as matrix Gla protein. In its inactive form, this protein is associated with various markers of cardiovascular disease including increased arterial stiffness, vascular and valvular calcification, insulin resistance and heart failure indices which ultimately increase cardiovascular mortality. Supplementation of vitamin K2 has been strongly associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes through its modification of systemic calcification and arterial stiffness. Although its direct effects on delaying the progression of vascular and valvular calcification is currently the subject of multiple randomised clinical trials, prior reports suggest potential improved survival among cardiac patients with vitamin K2 supplementation. Strengthened by its affordability and Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA)-proven safety, vitamin K2 supplementation is a viable and promising option to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Introduction: Radiation reduction measures were incorporated in the Cleveland Clinic Catheterization laboratories to mitigate the hazards from radiation exposure to patients and personnel during diagnostic and interventional coronary procedures. We report our experience with these improved systems over a 10-year period. Methods: Fluoroscopes were modified in 2013 by reducing the default fluoroscopic pulse rate from 10 to 7.5 pules/s, added default low-dose acquisitions, revised field-of-view dose factors, and instructed operators to use larger fields-of-view with appropriate collimation. A retrospective data analysis of all patients undergoing diagnostic catheterization from 2009 to 2012 (pre-initiative group), and 2013 to 2019 (post-initiative group) was done using Siemens CARE analytics software. The effectiveness of radiation reduction measures was assessed by comparing the total air kerma (K a,r ), and fluoroscopy- and acquisition-mode air kerma in patients in the two groups after propensity matching them based on age, sex, BSA, and total fluoroscopic time. Results: The total fluoroscopic time for the pre-initiative group (N=18,181) was 8.02 seconds while that for the post-initiative group (N=25,868) was 8.05 seconds. After matching 18,181 patients in both the groups (mean age, 64 years; 62% males), a significant reduction (54.4%) in the mean K a,r was observed in the post- in comparison to the pre-initiative group (420.94 mGy vs. 921.21 mGy; p-16 ). Further analysis revealed a reduction in the mean acquisition- (59.3%; 217.33 mGy vs. 533.50 mGy; p-16 ) and fluoroscopy-mode (47.5%; 203.61 mGy vs. 387.71 mGy; p-16 ) air kerma in the post-initiative group. A sub-analysis of patients matched on the basis of their exact fluoroscopy and acquisition times also revealed a significant reduction in K a,r , acquisition- and fluoroscopy-mode air kerma in the post-initiative group relative to the pre-initiative group (43.95%, 44.04%, 43.78% respectively). Conclusions: Optimization of imaging systems can significantly reduce patient radiation exposures which directly affect the radiation exposure of the Cath lab personnel. Similar algorithms can be applied in other labs to achieve a reduction in radiation exposure.

Background: Axial resolution provided by optical coherence tomography (OCT) is 10 times higher compared with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), hence OCT could detect fine details such as edge dissections and tissue coverage of stent struts which may be missed by IVUS imaging. Given the lack of robust comparative data, utilization of IVUS or OCT in PCI guidance is mainly based on the operator experience. Recently, multiple studies have compared clinical outcomes between OCT-guided versus IVUS-guided in PCI, thus we performed this meta-analysis. Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of all studies evaluating the clinical outcomes of OCT-guided versus IVUS-guided in low-risk PCI. Studies that included patients with left main disease, bifurcation lesions, long lesions, in-stent stenosis, and patients with history of coronary artery bypass grafting were all excluded. Our primary outcome was major cardiac adverse events (MACE). Secondary outcomes consisted of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stent thrombosis (ST), and target lesion revascularization (TLR). Results: Four RCTs and one propensity-matched observational study were included, with a total of 1,544 patients and a median weighted follow-up period of 1.26 years. Out of the total population, 51% were in the OCT arm and 49% in the IVUS arm. Our pooled analysis showed a similar risk of MACE (OCT 5.0% vs IVUS 4.7%, p=0.90), risk of all-cause death (OCT 2.7% vs IVUS 1.7%, p=0.44), MI (OCT 1.5% vs IVUS 1.3%, p=0.76), ST (OCT 0.3% vs IVUS 0.4%, p=0.66) and TLR (OCT 2.2% vs IVUS 2.6%, p=0.58) between the two groups (Figures 1). Heterogeneity was low in all outcomes (I 2 =0). Conclusion: OCT-guided PCI has similar long term clinical outcomes when compared to IVUS-guided PCI in low-risk patients. RCTs with a larger population and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these results.

Introduction: Connective tissue disorders (CTD) play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic heart disease with a dynamic interplay between inflammatory and traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Hypothesis: We aim to develop, validate, and compare population-level machine learning models to predict the first acute myocardial infarction (AMI) event in CTD. Methods: We extracted patient data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) and identified 62 demographic and clinical variables. We identified those with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, mixed connective tissue disorder, Sjogren’s syndrome, polymyositis, and dermatomyositis. We excluded those with prior history of myocardial infarction, known coronary artery disease, or missing key variables. We split the records randomly into training (70%) and testing (30%) datasets. Keras sequential model with Adadelta optimizer was used to compile the deep neural network model and scikit-learn classifiers were used for machine learning models. We estimated model performance based on the area under the receiver-operator characteristics curve (AUC). Results: 961,405 records were identified, and out of these, 14,961 (1.6%) had the first AMI event. The neural network model performed best in predicting AMI with an AUC:0.96 [A]. Classifier models had varying degrees of success range from 0.71 to 0.86 with Gradient Boosting Classifier, AUC:0.86 [B], being the best performing classifier, followed by Decision Tree, AUC:0.85, Logistic regression, AUC:0.84, Random Forest, AUC:0.84, Naive Bayes, AUC:0.75, Stochastic Gradient Descend, AUC: 0.71. Conclusions: A neural network model was able to predict the first AMI in people with CTD accurately. Developing and implementing machine learning models can help clinicians predict individual patient risk with a high degree of success.

BACKGROUND Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) and catheter ablation are first line treatments of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), however there exists a paucity of data regarding the potential benefit of different catheter ablation technologies versus AADs as an early rhythm strategy. OBJECTIVE To assess the safety and efficacy of cryoablation versus radiofrequency ablation vs AADs as a first line therapy of PAF. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and CENTRAL were searched to retrieve randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing cryoablation, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or AADs to one another as first line therapies for AF. The primary outcome was overall freedom from arrhythmia recurrence [AF, atrial flutter (AFL), atrial tachycardia)]. Secondary outcomes included freedom from symptomatic arrhythmia recurrence, hospitalization, and serious adverse events. A random-effects Bayesian network meta-analysis was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% credible intervals (CrI). RESULTS Six RCTs (N = 1,212) met the inclusion criteria (605 AADs, 365 Cryoablation, and 245 RFA). Compared with AADs, overall recurrence was reduced with RFA (OR: 0.31; 95% CrI: 0.10 to 0.71) and cryoablation (OR: 0.39; 95% CrI: 0.16 to 1.00). Comparing ablation (cryoablation and RFA) with AADs in respect to freedom from symptomatic AF recurrence, neither cryoablation (OR: 0.35; 95% CrI: 0.06 to 1.96) nor RFA (OR: 0.34; 95% CrI: 0.07 to 1.27) resulted in statistically significant reductions individually compared to AADs, though pooled ablation with both technologies showed lower odds of arrhythmia recurrence (OR: 0.35; 95% CrI: 0.13 to 0.79). In terms of serious adverse events rates, neither cryoablation (OR: 0.77; 95% CrI: 0.44 to 1.39) nor RFA (OR: 1.45; 95% CrI: 0.67 to 3.23) were significantly different to AADs. RFA resulted in a statistically significant reduction in hospitalizations compared to AAD (OR: 0.08; 95% CrI: 0.01 to 0.99), whereas cryoablation did not (OR: 0.77; 95% CrI: 0.44 to 1.39). The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) showed RFA to be the most effective treatment at reducing overall rates of recurrence, symptomatic recurrence and hospitalizations; whereas cryoablation was most likely to reduce serious adverse events. CONCLUSION Cryoablation and RFA are both effective and safe first line therapies for AF compared to AADs, with RFA being the most effective at reducing recurrences. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Background: Valve-in-Valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (ViV-TAVI) is a growing alternative for redo-surgery in patients with degenerated surgical valves. To our knowledge, data are lacking on the determinants on ViV-TAVI procedural success in patients with degenerated surgical valves.Methods: All consecutive patients undergoing ViV-TAVI for degenerated surgical valves at the Cleveland Clinic were analyzed. Data were extracted from our patient registry on baseline patient characteristics, echocardiographic parameters, and procedural details. To identify possible predictors of ViV-TAVI procedural success, we employed a multivariate logistic regression model.Results: A total of 186 patients who underwent ViV-TAVI were analyzed, with procedural success (VARC-2 device success and absence of periprocedural MACCE) reported in 165 (88.7%) patients. Patients with successful ViV-TAVI were significantly younger and had more frequent utilization of the transfemoral access than those with failed procedure. Other baseline and procedural characteristics were comparable between both groups. In terms of echocardiographic parameters, the procedural success group had a significantly lower AV peak pressure gradient (62.1 ± 24.7 vs. 74.1 ± 34.6 mmHg; p = 0.04) and lower incidence of moderate-to-severe aortic regurgitation [AR] (30.4 vs. 55%; p = 0.04). However, no significant differences between both groups were noted in terms of AV mean pressure gradient and left ventricular measurements. In multivariate analysis, lower AV peak pressure gradient (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–0.99) and absence of moderate-to-severe AR (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44–0.95) at baseline emerged as independent predictors of ViV-TAVI procedural success.Conclusion: Valve-in-Valve TAVI for degenerated surgical valves is a feasible approach with high success rates, especially in those with lower AV peak pressure gradient and absence of moderate-to-severe AR. Studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up are required to further characterize the predictors of ViV-TAVI success and other clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES This study sought to examine the association of hospital procedural volume with the incidence and outcomes of surgical bailout (SB) in patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). BACKGROUND SB is required for serious complications during or after TAVR. It remains unclear whether hospital experiences affect the incidence and outcomes of SB. METHODS We retrospectively identified patients who underwent endovascular TAVR using the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2012-2017. We examined the association of annual hospital procedural volume (annual number of endovascular TAVR cases in each hospital in each year) with the incidence and in-hospital mortality of SB using multivariable logistic regressions and restricted cubic splines. RESULTS Among 82,764 eligible patients, the incidence of SB was 0.95% (n = 789) and decreased from 2012 to 2017 (from 2.66% to 0.49%; Ptrend

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, treatment, and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) following transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement (TAVR or SAVR). BACKGROUND Coronary artery disease is common in patients who undergo aortic valve replacement. However, little is known about differences in clinical features of post-TAVR or post-SAVR AMI. METHODS We retrospectively identified post-TAVR or post-SAVR (including isolated and complex SAVR) patients admitted with AMI using the Nationwide Readmissions Database 2012-2017. Incidence, invasive strategy (coronary angiography or revascularization), and in-hospital outcomes were compared between post-TAVR and post-SAVR AMIs. RESULTS The incidence of 180-day AMI was higher post-TAVR than post-SAVR (1.59% vs. 0.72%; p

Transcatheter mitral valve repair with MitraClip (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, California) is a minimally invasive intervention for severe mitral regurgitation ([1][1],[2][2]). Meanwhile, transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR), mainly with a transseptal or transapical approach, has emerged

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has evolved as a first-line treatment modality for patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS). The proportion of patients with cancer who require TAVR has gradually increased, with a prevalence close to 4% ([1][1]). Although surgical aortic valve

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is rapidly expanding to younger, lower risk populations with severe aortic stenosis in light of recent trials, yet these studies excluded patients with bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs) because of concerns over valve morphology affecting function and

Surgical mitral valve repair or replacement (SMVR) remains the standard therapeutic option for patients with severe primary mitral regurgitation (MR). Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) with MitraClip (Abbott Structural, Santa Clara, California) has emerged as an important treatment option for

Introduction: Pregnancy-associated stroke (PAS) is a rare event but is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Understanding racial disparities in outcomes may help improve care in susceptible populations and shed light on areas of possible targeted improvement. Methods: Pregnant and post-partum women hospitalized from January 2002 to December 2017 were identified from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. White and Black women were included in the current study. PAS was identified using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 9 and 10 revisions. In-hospital mortality was the primary outcome. Multivariate regression analysis was used for Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) to adjust for differences in baseline and pregnancy-related comorbidities. Results: Among 38,797,752 pregnant and post-partum women, 21.9% were black. A total of 10,959 women (0.03%) suffered from PAS. Of women with PAS, 4,521 (41.3%) were Black. Black women with PAS had a higher in-hospital mortality rate compared to white women (7.8% vs. 5.0%, P< 0.001). A significant disparity was noted in the risk of mortality by age groups where black women of ages 18-24 with PAS had a higher aOR of mortality 2.10, 95% (confidence interval) CI (1.88-2.35) compared to white women, ages 25-29 had aOR of 2.75, 95% CI (2.46-3.07), ages 30-34 had aOR of 3.94, 95% CI (3.50-4.43), ages 35-40 had aOR of 3.73, 95% CI (3.25-4.29), and ages 40 and older had aOR of 1.27, 95% CI (1.08-1.51). A significant difference was noted when stratifying outcome by income as black women in the lowest quartile of income had an aOR of 1.91, 95% CI (1.74-2.10), while those in the highest quartile of income had OR of 2.38, 95% CI (2.02-2.80). Conclusions: Black women with PAS were associated with higher in-hospital mortality compared with the White counterparts. These differences were observed mainly among the younger age groups. Targeted interventions are needed to minimize these observed racial differences.