Trajectory of Diastolic Function after Heart Transplantation as Assessed by Left Atrial Deformation Analysis.

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is a prevalent and clinically significant complication after heart transplantation (HTX). We aimed to characterize the diastolic function of HTX recipients with both short-term and long-term follow-ups by applying left atrial (LA) deformation analysis. We consecutively enrolled and followed up with 33 HTX patients. Three assessments were performed one month, 3-5 months, and 3-5 years after surgery. Beyond conventional echocardiographic measurements, apical four-chamber views optimized for speckle tracking analysis were acquired and post-processed by dedicated software solutions (TomTec AutoStrain LA and LV). Left atrial phasic functions were characterized by reservoir, conduit, and contraction strains. We categorized diastolic function according to current guidelines (normal diastolic function, indeterminate, DD). At the first assessment, nine (27%) patients were in the DD category, and eleven (33%) were indeterminate. At the second assessment, only one patient (3%) remained in the DD category and six (18%) were indeterminate. At the third assessment, 100% of patients were categorized as having normal diastolic function. LA reservoir strain gradually increased over time. LA contraction strain significantly improved from the second to the third assessment. We found a correlation between the LA reservoir strain and NT-proBNP (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). DD is prevalent immediately after HTX but rare until the end of the first postoperative quarter. Speckle tracking analysis enables the characterization of LA phasic functions that may reflect both short- and long-term changes in diastolic function and correlate with NT-proBNP.

The role of 3D technology in the practical education of congenital coarctation and its treatment-a feasibility pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital disease with an incidence of 4 out of 10,000 live births, therefore proper education of its treatment is essential. Understanding the disease and the wide array of treatment options is often difficult. Additive manufacturing technology can be used to produce 3D printed hands-on surgical training tools (HOSTT), which can be used for the education and practical training of CoA. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a 3D printable HOSTT for the simulation of coarctation surgery, and it' possible role in practical education. METHODS: Participants were medical students of Semmelweis University between the second and sixth academic year. A virtual 3D model of an aorta with CoA was generated from a computed tomography angiography scan. Each participant received a 3D-printed aorta phantom and performed either one of four surgical treatment modalities. The simulated surgeries included end-to-end anastomosis, end-to-side anastomosis, prosthetic patch, and subclavian flap aortoplasty. Participants provided feedback, evaluating their understanding of the disease and its treatment by the four surgical reconstruction modalities on a seven-point Likert scale before and after the sessions. RESULTS: 21 medical students participated in this study. Participants' average rating of their understanding of CoA disease and it treatment options before practical training was 4.62 ± 1.07. After training, their average rating increased to 6.19 ± 1.08, showing statistically significant difference. CONCLUSIONS: Within this study's limitations, the applied HOSTT, manufactured using 3D printing, was effective for the practical training of CoA's surgical treatment methods for medical students.

Truncated titin is structurally integrated into the human dilated cardiomyopathic sarcomere.

Heterozygous (HET) truncating variant mutations in the TTN gene (TTNtvs), encoding the giant titin protein, are the most common genetic cause of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). However, the molecular mechanisms by which TTNtv mutations induce DCM are controversial. Here, we studied 127 clinically identified DCM human cardiac samples with next-generation sequencing (NGS), high-resolution gel electrophoresis, Western blot analysis, and super-resolution microscopy in order to dissect the structural and functional consequences of TTNtv mutations. The occurrence of TTNtv was found to be 15% in the DCM cohort. Truncated titin proteins matching, by molecular weight, the gene sequence predictions were detected in the majority of the TTNtv+ samples. Full-length titin was reduced in TTNtv+ compared with TTNtv- samples. Proteomics analysis of washed myofibrils and stimulated emission depletion (STED) super-resolution microscopy of myocardial sarcomeres labeled with sequence-specific anti-titin antibodies revealed that truncated titin was structurally integrated into the sarcomere. Sarcomere length-dependent anti-titin epitope position, shape, and intensity analyses pointed at possible structural defects in the I/A junction and the M-band of TTNtv+ sarcomeres, which probably contribute, possibly via faulty mechanosensor function, to the development of manifest DCM.

Disparities in donor heart acceptance between the USA and Europe: clinical implications.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Given limited evidence and lack of consensus on donor acceptance for heart transplant (HT), selection practices vary widely across HT centres in the USA. Similar variation likely exists on a broader scale-across countries and HT systems-but remains largely unexplored. This study characterized differences in heart donor populations and selection practices between the USA and Eurotransplant-a consortium of eight European countries-and their implications for system-wide outcomes. METHODS: Characteristics of adult reported heart donors and their utilization (the percentage of reported donors accepted for HT) were compared between Eurotransplant (n = 8714) and the USA (n = 60 882) from 2010 to 2020. Predictors of donor acceptance were identified using multivariable logistic regression. Additional analyses estimated the impact of achieving Eurotransplant-level utilization in the USA amongst donors of matched quality, using probability of acceptance as a marker of quality. RESULTS: Eurotransplant reported donors were older with more cardiovascular risk factors but with higher utilization than in the USA (70% vs. 44%). Donor age, smoking history, and diabetes mellitus predicted non-acceptance in the USA and, by a lesser magnitude, in Eurotransplant; donor obesity and hypertension predicted non-acceptance in the USA only. Achieving Eurotransplant-level utilization amongst the top 30%-50% of donors (by quality) would produce an additional 506-930 US HTs annually. CONCLUSIONS: Eurotransplant countries exhibit more liberal donor heart acceptance practices than the USA. Adopting similar acceptance practices could help alleviate the scarcity of donor hearts and reduce waitlist morbidity in the USA.

[The role of 3D technology in the support of mechanical circulation therapy.] / A 3D technológia szerepe a muszívterápiában.

INTRODUCTION: Successful mechanical circulatory support is influenced by various factors, which are difficult or impossible to control. For ideal functioning of the left ventricular assist device inflow-cannula, its axis should be close to parallel with the septum, facing the mitral valve within the left ventricle. Numerous international publications discuss that deviation from optimal implantation can lead to inadequate functioning and serious complications. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to developing a method, which, using 3D technology, anatomical and hydrodynamic data, makes optimal surgical implantation of the left ventricular assist device possible. METHOD: Data of 57 patients, receiving mechanical circulatory support at Semmelweis University, Heart and Vascular Center, were analyzed retrospectively. Results of operations performed with the patented novel navigation device (exoskeleton) were compared with results of operations performed conventionally, without navigation (control group). Following pairing based on estimated participation probability, postoperative data of 7-7 patients were compared. DICOM files from CT angiography images were used to create virtual geometries of individual hearts. Optimal inflow-cannula angle was determined through hydrodynamic simulation. Exoskeletons were printed using synthetic resin suitable for surgical purposes. Exoskeleton templates guided punch knife positioning and inflow-cannula implantation. RESULTS: Evaluation of postoperative CT angiography images showed that the angle between inflow-cannula and interventricular septum significantly differed in the exoskeleton and control groups (10.13° ± 2.69° vs. 22.87° ± 12.38°, p = 0.0208). Hydrodynamic tests found significantly lower turbulence in the exoskeleton group. Simulated turbulent kinetic energy was significantly lower in the exoskeleton group, which was 11.7 m2/s2 ± 9.39 m2/s2 vs. 49.59 m2/s2 ± 7.61 m2/s2 on average. CONCLUSION: The results suggest left ventricular assist device implantation with patented exoskeleton to be a standardizable, safe and effective method. Preliminary results suggest, that the method may facilitate individualized care, reduce surgical time and incidence of serious complications. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(26): 1026-1033.

Extracorporeal photopheresis in the treatment of cardiac allograft rejection: A single-centre experience.

Despite novel immunosuppressive (IS) protocols, adverse effects of IS drugs continue to have notable negative impact on patient and cardiac allograft survival after heart transplantation (HTx). Therefore, IS regimens with less toxic side effects are sorely needed. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) in combination with tacrolimus-based maintenance IS therapy in the treatment of allograft rejection in adult HTx recipients. Indications for ECP included acute moderate-to-severe or persistent mild cellular rejection, or mixed rejection. Twenty-two patients underwent a median of 22(2-44) ECP treatments after HTx. Median duration of ECP course was 173.5(2-466) days. No relevant adverse effects of ECP were noted. Reduction of methylprednisolone doses was safe throughout the ECP course. ECP, used in conjunction with pharmacological anti-rejection therapy, had a successful reversal of cardiac allograft rejection, decreased the rates of subsequential rejection episodes and normalized the allograft function in patients completing the ECP course. Short- and long-term survivals were excellent (91% at 1 and 5 years post-ECP) and comparable to International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation registry data on HTx recipient overall survival. In conclusion, ECP can be safely used for the treatment and prevention of cardiac allograft rejection in conjunction with traditional IS regimen.

[The role of extracorporeal life support in cardiopulmonary resuscitation]. / Az extracorporalis keringéstámogatás helye az újraélesztésben.

The frequency of the administration of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation is increasing both in the treatment of in-hospital and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The latest resuscitation guidelines support the use of mechanical circulatory support devices in the cases of prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation in certain selected patient groups. However, only little evidence is available regarding the effectiveness of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and many open questions remained unanswered regarding the adequate conditions of this modality. The timing and location of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation are important factors, as well as the appropriate training of the personnel using extracorporeal techniques. Our review briefly summarizes, according to the current literature and recommendations, in which cases extracorporeal resuscitation may be beneficial, which type of mechanical circulatory support is the first choice of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which factors influence the efficacy of this supportive treatment, and which complications may be expected during mechanical circulatory support during resuscitation. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(13): 510-514.

Association between Hepatic Venous Congestion and Adverse Outcomes after Cardiac Surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatic venous flow patterns reflect pressure changes in the right ventricle and are also markers of systemic venous congestion. Fluid management is crucial in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. METHODS: Our goal was to determine which factors are associated with the increased congestion of the liver as measured by Doppler ultrasound in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. This prospective, observational study included 41 patients without preexisting liver disease who underwent cardiac surgery between 1 January 2021 and 30 September 2021 at a tertiary heart center. In addition to routine echocardiographic examination, we recorded the maximal velocity and velocity time integral (VTI) of the standard four waves seen in the common hepatic vein (flow profile) using Doppler ultrasound preoperatively and at the 20-24th hour of the postoperative period. The ratios of the retrograde and anterograde hepatic venous waves were calculated, and the waveforms were compared to the baseline value and expressed as a delta ratio. Demographic data, pre- and postoperative echocardiographic parameters, intraoperative variables (procedure, cardiopulmonary bypass time), postoperative factors (fluid balance, vasoactive medication requirement, ventilation time and parameters) and perioperative laboratory parameters (liver and kidney function tests, albumin) were used in the analysis. RESULTS: Of the 41 patients, 20 (48.7%) were males, and the median age of the patients was 65.9 years (IQR: 59.8-69.9 years). Retrograde VTI growth showed a correlation with positive fluid balance (0.89 (95% CI 0.785-0.995) c-index. After comparing the postoperative echocardiographic parameters of the two subgroups, right ventricular and atrial diameters were significantly greater in the "retrograde VTI growth" group. The ejection fraction and decrement in ejection fraction to preoperative parameters were significantly different between the two groups. (p = 0.001 and 0.003). Ventilation times were longer in the retrograde VTI group. The postoperative vs. baseline delta VTI ratio of the hepatic vein correlated with positive fluid balance, maximum central venous pressure, and ejection fraction. (B = -0.099, 95% CI = -0.022-0.002, p = 0.022, B = 0.011, 95% CI = 0.001-0.021, p = 0.022, B = 0.091, 95% CI = 0.052-0.213, p = 0.002, respectively.) Conclusion: The increase of the retrograde hepatic flow during the first 24 h following cardiac surgery was associated with positive fluid balance and the decrease of the right ventricular function. Measurement of venous congestion or venous abdominal insufficiency seems to be a useful tool in guiding fluid therapy and hemodynamic management.

3D culturing of human pluripotent stem cells-derived endothelial cells for vascular regeneration.

Rationale: Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells can be candidates for engineering therapeutic vascular grafts. Methods: Here, we studied the role of three-dimensional culture on their characteristics and function both in vitro and in vivo. Results: We found that differentiated hPSC-EC can re-populate decellularized biomatrices; they remain viable, undergo maturation and arterial/venous specification. Human PSC-EC develop antifibrotic, vasoactive and anti-inflammatory properties during recellularization. In vivo, a robust increase in perfusion was detected at the engraftment sites after subcutaneous implantation of an hPSC-EC-laden hydrogel in rats. Histology confirmed survival and formation of capillary-like structures, suggesting the incorporation of hPSC-EC into host microvasculature. In a canine model, hiPSC-EC-seeded onto decellularised vascular segments were functional as aortic grafts. Similarly, we showed the retention and maturation of hiPSC-EC and dynamic remodelling of the vessel wall with good maintenance of vascular patency. Conclusions: A combination of hPSC-EC and biomatrices may be a promising approach to repair ischemic tissues.

Association between Preoperative Retrograde Hepatic Vein Flow and Acute Kidney Injury after Cardiac Surgery.

Key questions: Is there a predictive value of hepatic venous flow patterns for postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgery? Key findings: In patients who underwent cardiac surgery, retrograde hepatic venous waves (A, V) and their respective ratio to anterograde waves showed a strong association with postoperative AKI, defined as the percentage change of the highest postoperative serum creatinine from the baseline preoperative concentration (%ΔCr). The velocity time integral (VTI) of the retrograde A wave and the ratio of the retrograde and anterograde waves' VTI were independently associated with AKI after adjustment for disease severity. Take-home message: A higher ratio of retrograde/antegrade waves in hepatic venous retrograde waves, which are related to hepatic stasis, may predict AKI after cardiac surgery. Introduction: Hepatic venous flow patterns reflect pressure changes in the right ventricle and are also markers of systemic venous congestion. Pulsatility of the inferior caval vein was used to predict the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgery. Aims: Our objective was to evaluate the association between preoperative hepatic venous flow patterns and the risk of AKI in patients after cardiac surgery. Methods: This prospective, observational study included 98 patients without preexisting liver disease who underwent cardiac surgery between 1 January 2018, and 31 March 2020, at a tertiary heart center. In addition to a routine echocardiographic examination, we recorded the maximal velocity and velocity time integral (VTI) of the standard four waves in the common hepatic vein with Doppler ultrasound. Our primary outcome measure was postoperative AKI, defined as the percentage change of the highest postoperative serum creatinine from the baseline preoperative concentration (%ΔCr). The secondary outcome was AKI, defined by KDIGO (Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes) criteria. Results: The median age of the patients was 69.8 years (interquartile range [IQR 25−75] 13 years). Seventeen patients (17.3%) developed postoperative AKI based on the KDIGO. The VTI of the retrograde A waves in the hepatic veins showed a strong correlation (B: 0.714; p = 0.0001) with an increase in creatinine levels after cardiac surgery. The velocity time integral (VTI) of the A wave (B = 0.038, 95% CI = 0.025−0.051, p < 0.001) and the ratio of VTI of the retrograde and anterograde waves (B = 0.233, 95% CI = 0.112−0.356, p < 0.001) were independently associated with an increase in creatinine levels. Conclusions: The severity of hepatic venous regurgitation can be a sign of venous congestion and seems to be related to the development of AKI.

"Turtle cage" method in the cardiac surgical treatment of constrictive pericarditis ­ our short-term results / "Turtle cage" módszer a pericarditis constrictiva szívsebészeti kezelésében - rövid távú eredményeink.

Összefoglaló. Bevezetés: A pericarditis constrictiva egy krónikus gyulladásos folyamat révén kialakuló betegség, melynek során a pericardium elveszíti rugalmasságát, gátolja a szív muködését, végso soron szívelégtelenséghez vezet. Egyetlen oki terápiája sebészi. A mutéti megoldásként legelterjedtebben alkalmazott teljes pericardiectomia hosszú idotartamú mutét, amely akár 18%-os mutéti kockázattal járhat, és amelyhez az esetek jelentos részében szívmotor alkalmazása szükséges. Célkituzés: Egy, az irodalomból már ismert, de csak ritkán és a legtöbbször csak a hagyományos pericardiectomia kiegészítéseként alkalmazott mutéti eljárás, a "turtle cage" pericardiectomia hatásosságának, eredményeinek, lehetséges elonyeinek vizsgálata. Módszer: 2008 és 2021 között Klinikánkon 33 "turtle cage" mutétet végeztünk pericarditis constrictiva miatt. A posztoperatív 30 napos idoszak eredményeit több, a nemzetközi irodalomban megjelent közlemény adataival hasonlítottuk össze. Eredmények: Az intraoperatív kép alapján minden esetben sikeres volt a beavatkozás, a 33 beteg egyikénél sem volt szükség szívmotor alkalmazására (0%), szemben a vizsgált közleményekkel. A 33 beavatkozás során 1 beteget veszítettünk el (3%), valamint 1 páciensnél volt szükség vérzés miatti reoperációra (3%), 4 betegnél dialízisre (12,1%). Ezen eredményeink összevethetok a nagy esetszámot felvonultató közleményekkel, és szignifikánsan jobbak az egyik megjelenített európai centrum eredményeinél. Következtetés: Az általunk alkalmazott "turtle cage" pericardiectomia önmagában is megfelelo eljárás a pericarditis constrictiva szívsebészeti kezelésére. Alkalmazásával minimalizálható a szívmotor használatának szükségessége, ezáltal a mutéti kockázat. Eredményeink a technikának köszönhetoen még a nagy esetszámú, sok tapasztalattal rendelkezo centrumok eredményeivel is összevethetok, azokkal megegyezok. Orv Hetil. 2022; 163(10): 393-399. INTRODUCTION: Constrictive pericarditis is a disease caused by a chronic inflammatory process, which is characterized by the pericardium's loss of flexibility, inhibiting the function of the heart, ultimately causing heart failure. The only definitive therapy is surgical. Total pericardiectomy, which is the most common surgical approach, is a lengthy procedure with up to 18% operative risk, and it often requires the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. OBJECTIVE: The evaluation of the effectiveness, results and possible advantages of a surgical technique, "turtle cage" pericardiectomy, which is described in the literature, although rarely used, mainly in addition to conventional pericardiectomy. METHOD: Between 2008 and 2021, we performed 33 "turtle cage" procedures on patients with constrictive pericarditis in our Institute. We compared the results of the 30-day postoperative period with internationally published data from multiple sources. RESULTS: Based on intraoperative findings, the procedure was successful in all cases, there were no instances when the use of cardiopulmonary bypass was required (0%). During the 33 procedures, we lost 1 patient (3%), reoperation was necessary for postoperative bleeding in 1 case (3%), and postoperative dialysis was necessary in 4 cases (12.1%). These results are comparable to those published by high-volume centres, and significantly better than those of one of the European centres published. CONCLUSION: The "turtle cage" pericardiectomy, as performed in our Institute, is suitable for the treatment of constrictive pericarditis on its own. With its use, we were able to minimize the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and the operative risk. Our results with this technique are comparable to those of the high-volume, highly experienced centres. Orv Hetil. 2022; 163(10): 393-399.

Blood-filled cyst of the tricuspid valve: Multiple cardiac disorders, one surgical case.

BACKGROUND: Intracardiac blood cysts are an exceedingly rare occurrence in adulthood. Detailed imaging modalities aid in the diagnosis of such incidental lesions and procedure planning. METHODS: We report the case of a 51-year-old male accusing dyspnea on exertion as a sole symptom which led to the discovery of multiple cardiac anomalies, namely, severe aortic valve insufficiency on a bicuspid aortic valve, ascending aortic aneurysm, a cystic mass on the tricuspid valve, patent foramen ovale, and an occluded right coronary artery. RESULTS: The disorders were managed in a single surgical intervention, the resected mass being confirmed as a blood cyst. CONCLUSIONS: Our case presents a unique association of cardiac disorders, including a highly uncommon intracardiac blood-filled cyst, and underlines the importance of multimodality imaging and interdisciplinary approach in the successful management of such complex cases.

Clinical significance of the aortic arch and its malformations from fetus to adulthood / Az aortaív-anomáliák klinikai jelentosége a magzattól a felnottkorig.

Összefoglaló. Az intrauterin echokardiográfiás és MR-diagnosztika fejlodése napjainkban jelentos szerepet tulajdonít már az elso trimeszter idejében kimutatható aortaív-fejlodési rendellenességeknek. Célunk volt részletezni a vascularis gyuruk megjelenési formáit, ezek különbözo életkorokban jelentkezo tüneteit, sebészi kezelését, hogy hozzájárulhassunk a helyes felvilágosításhoz, mely alapveto lehet a szülés helyének megválasztásában, így meghatározhassák a magzat sorsát, perinatalis ellátását. A situs inversustól eltekintve a jobb oldali aortaív jelenléte mindig felhívja a figyelmet vascularis gyuru, társuló szívhibák, genetikai betegségek, kromoszómaanomáliák jelenlétére, tehát a magzat további vizsgálata szükséges. Kettos aortaív esetén jelentkezhetnek olyan súlyos tünetek, melyek a megszületés után, kora csecsemokorban sebészi beavatkozást igényelhetnek (szükséges lehet a szülés helyének megválasztása!). Az aberráns jobb arteria subclavia önállóan nem alkot érgyurut, a ritkán társuló truncus caroticusszal csak késobbi életkorban okozhat sebészi beavatkozást igényló enyhe tüneteket. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(48): 1920-1923. Summary. Nowadays, the development of intrauterine echocardiography and MR diagnostics plays a significant role in aortic arch malformations detected during the first trimester. Our aim was to detail the manifestations of vascular rings, their symptoms at different ages and their surgical treatment options in order to determine the fate of the fetus and its perinatal care. Apart from situs inversus, the presence of the right aortic arch always draws the attention to the possible presence of vascular rings, associated heart defects, genetic diseases, or chromosomal abnormalities, therefore further examinations of the fetus are necessary. In the case of a double aortic arch, severe symptoms may occur, which may require surgery after birth and in early infancy (it may be necessary to choose the place of birth!). The right aberrant subclavian artery does not form a ring and may cause mild symptoms requiring surgery at a later age with rarely associated truncus carotid. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(48): 1920-1923.

Endocrine Management and Hormone Replacement Therapy in Cardiac Donor Management: A Retrospective Observational Study.

BACKGROUND: Pituitary dysfunction after brainstem death can cause various hormone deficiencies in potential heart donors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT; including antidiuretic hormone analog, thyroid hormone, and methylprednisolone) in heart donors and the recipients' outcomes after heart transplantation (HTx). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed HTxs performed between January 2012 and October 2018. Donor and recipient characteristics were retrieved with a focus on endocrine parameters and HRT. The primary outcome was primary graft dysfunction (PGD). Secondary outcomes were the 30-day and 2-year mortality of the recipients. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied. RESULTS: The study included 297 HTxs. PGD occurred in 56 recipients (18.9%). In the multivariable Cox analysis, methylprednisolone and thyroxine treatment in donors were associated with a lower odds for PGD (odds ratio [OR], 0.43; 95% CI, 0.19-1.01; P = .052; and OR,: 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15-0.76; P = .009, respectively). In multivariate analysis, thyroxine treatment in donors was associated with a lower odds of PGD (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17-0.86; P = .020). Donor thyroxine supplementation also had a beneficial effect on recipients' 2-year survival (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.29-0.96; P = .036). CONCLUSIONS: Combined thyroxine and methylprednisolone treatment could be a protective factor against PGD. Thyroxine administration was associated with better 2-year survival in recipients.

Predictors of mortality following extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support in an unselected, critically ill patient population.

INTRODUCTION: Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has been established as a means of augmenting circulation in patients with critically decreased systolic function due to a variety of underlying clinical reasons. Different methods of MCS may be used, with the venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation system (VA-ECMO) being one of the most utilized devices in everyday care. AIM: To determine independent predictors influencing mortality outcomes following VA-ECMO therapy in a large, unselected, adult, critically ill patient population in cardiogenic shock (CS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data on 235 consecutive, real-world VA-ECMO treatments were assessed. Analysis was conducted for all subjects requiring MCS with the VA-ECMO as the first instalment, regardless of underlying cause or eventual upgrade. All potential clinical factors influencing mortality were examined and evaluated. RESULTS: Overall mortality was ~66% at median 28 days follow-up and significantly depended upon pH < 7.3 (HR = 3.56; p < 0.001), and age ≥ 65 years (HR = 1.96; p = 0.001). Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) as an indication for VA-ECMO displayed a nearly significant value (HR = 1.44; p = 0.07). Heart transplant (hTX) primary graft failure as an indication for the VA-ECMO displayed a clearly favorable outcome (HR = 0.51, p = 0.025); all data based on multivariate Cox regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Mortality in patients requiring VA-ECMO remains high. We conclude that only decreased pH values and advanced age clearly influence mortality in this MCS scenario. ACS also bodes unfavorably, whereas hTX as an indication clearly shows better survival.

Pseudoaneurysm of the ascending aorta: case report of a donor-derived Pseudomonas infection in a heart transplant recipient.

BACKGROUND: Mycotic aortic pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication after heart transplantation (HTX) with remarkable mortality. Intrathoracic infection is a well-documented predisposing factor for this disease. Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Candida species are commonly isolated from resected specimens of the pseudoaneurysms. We demonstrate a unique case of mycotic pseudoaneurysm caused by presumably donor-derived Pseudomonas infection in a heart transplant recipient. CASE PRESENTATION: Our 67-year-old male patient treated with diabetes mellitus underwent HTX. The donor suffered from epiglottic abscess and pneumonia with known microorganisms including Pseudomonas, therefore both the donor and recipient received targeted antimicrobial therapy and prophylaxis. Five months after the uneventful HTX, lab test of the asymptomatic patient showed moderate, increasing C-reactive protein level without obviuos source of infection. Chest computed tomography showed a large (90 mm) saccular dilatation of the tubular portion of ascending aorta. Urgent surgical intervention identified a pseudoaneurysm, histological examinations and cultures of the resected aorta verified Pseudomonas aeruginosa aortitis, while all blood cultures remained negative. Retrospective interrogation of other transplanted organs of the donor supported donor-derived infection as the transport fluid of the right kidney grew Pseudomonas. The patient received 3 weeks of ceftazidime followed by 7 months of oral ciprofloxacin therapy. One year after the operation the patient was asymptomatic with normal inflammatory markers. CONCLUSIONS: Donor-derived infection is a rare but potential cause of aortitis. Early diagnosis, surgical intervention and adjuvant antibiotic therapy seem to be the keys to successful management of mycotic pseudoaneurysms after HTX.

Mitral valve surgery in the treatment of atrioventricular septal defect / A mitralis billentyu sebészete atrioventricularis septumdefektusban.

Összefoglaló. A veleszületett szívbetegségek egyik gyakori formáját jelento atrioventricularis septumdefektus korrekciós mutétjének kritikus pontja a közös atrioventricularis szájadék elválasztásával a mitralis billentyu kialakítása. A korrekció sikere számos anatómiai variáns függvénye, ezért nem lehet minden esetben a tökéletes anatómiai viszonyokat kialakítani. A fennmaradó billentyustenosisok, regurgitatiók a késobbi életkorban progressziót mutatva olyan hemodinamikai kórképeket, keringési elégtelenséget okozhatnak, melyek további beavatkozásokat igényelhetnek. A mitralis billentyunek az atrioventricularis septumdefektushoz társuló betegsége koraszülöttkortól aggkorig minden életkorban elofordul, más-más mutéti megoldást igényelve. A szerzok részletezik a különbözo életkorokra vonatkozóan a napjainkban lehetséges és szükséges mutéti megoldásokat, sebészi kihívásokat. A mitralis billentyu mubillentyure történo cseréjében a klasszikus sebészi megoldások mellett napjainkban új beavatkozásokként jelentos számban jelentkeznek a katéteres intervenciós és hibrid megoldások. A felnottkort egyre nagyobb számban megélo betegek fokozott odafigyelést, speciális ellátást igényelnek a kardiológusoktól, szívsebészektol. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(35): 1397-1401. Summary. The critical point of the atrioventricular septal defect correction is to separate the common atrioventricular orifice, which results in the reconstruction of the mitral valve. The success of the correction depends on many anatomical aspects, therefore a perfect anatomical outcome is not always possible. The remaining valvular stenoses and regurgitations, showing progression at a later age, may result in hemodynamic disorders and circulatory insufficiency that may require further interventions. Mitral valve disease associated with atrioventricular septal defect occurs at all ages from preterm to adulthood, requiring different surgical solutions. The authors detail the possible and necessary surgical solutions and surgical challenges at different ages. In addition to the classic surgical solutions, a significant number of catheter interventional and hybrid solutions are emerging as new interventions in the replacement of the mitral valve with an artificial valve. An increasing number of patients living in adulthood require increased attention and special care from cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(35): 1397-1401.

Left ventricular rotational abnormalities in adult patients with corrected tetralogy of Fallot following different surgical procedures (Results from the CSONGRAD Registry and MAGYAR-Path Study).

BACKGROUND: Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD). Abnormal aortic dimensions and elasticity parameters have been long described for corrected TOF (cTOF) together with left ventricular (LV) rotational abnormalities, but results are conflicting. The present study focuses on investigating LV rotational mechanics in cTOF, and possible correlation of these parameters with aortic elasticity. It was also aimed to be examined whether different surgical strategies have any effect on these results. METHODS: The study involved 26 adult cTOF patients, from which 14 had palliative surgery first and a late total correction (pcTOF), while early total correction was the treatment of choice in 12 patients (etrTOF). Their results were compared to those of 37 age- and gender-matched healthy adults. Routine transthoracic two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography extended with assessment of aortic elastic properties and three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) was performed in all cTOF patients and controls. RESULTS: Sixteen out of 26 cTOF patients showed normally directed LV rotational mechanics, while apical or basal LV rotations were in the same clockwise or counterclockwise directions in 7 and 3 cTOF cases, respectively (LV 'rigid body rotation', RBR). Significantly reduced LV apical rotation and twist could be demonstrated in all cTOF patients with preserved LV basal rotation regardless of previous procedure. pcTOF patients showed significantly reduced LV apical rotation as compared to that of etrTOF cases. Significant correlations could be demonstrated between LV apical rotation and aortic stiffness index (r=-0.55, P=0.03) and aortic distensibility (r=0.52, P=0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Significant LV rotational abnormalities could be demonstrated in cTOF with the high prevalence of LV-RBR. pcTOF patients showed significantly reduced LV apical rotation as compared to that of etrTOF cases. Unexpected abnormal physiologic response of LV rotational mechanics to increased aortic stiffness can be detected in cTOF patients without LV-RBR.

Left ventricular strains correlate with aortic elastic properties in adult patients with corrected tetralogy of Fallot (Results from the CSONGRAD Registry and MAGYAR-Path Study).

BACKGROUND: Aortopathy is a common phenomenon in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). The current study was designed to detect left ventricular (LV) deformation abnormalities and its relation to aortic stiffness in corrected TOF (cTOF) using the novel three-dimensional (3D) speckle-tracking echocardiography (3DSTE). Detailed comparative analysis between patients with early palliation-late correction (pcTOF) and early total reconstruction (etrTOF) was also performed. METHODS: The present study consisted of 28 cTOF patients (35.0±15.7 years, 11 males) from which 15 and 13 proved to be pcTOF and etrTOF, respectively. Their clinical parameters were compared to those of 39 matched healthy adults (35.5±6.0 years, 16 males). RESULTS: cTOF patients showed significantly lower global LV longitudinal, circumferential and area strains as compared to controls. In etrTOF patients, global LV 3D strain was higher than in controls. In pcTOF patients, all LV strains proved to be significantly lower as compared to those of etrTOF patients and controls. In all cTOF patients, several moderate correlations could be detected between LV strain parameters and aortic elastic properties. CONCLUSIONS: Significant LV deformational abnormalities could be demonstrated in cTOF patients. etrTOF patients have beneficial LV strain parameters as compared to those of pcTOF patients. LV strains show correlations with aortic elastic properties.