Acute Rejection Rates in Vascularized Composite Allografts: A Systematic Review of Case Reports.

INTRODUCTION: Vascularized Composite Allografts (VCA) are usually performed in a full major histocompatibility complex mismatch setting, with a risk of acute rejection depending on factors such as the type of immunosuppression therapy and the quality of graft preservation. In this systematic review, we present the different immunosuppression protocols used in VCA and point out relationships between acute rejection rates and possible factors that might influence it. METHODS: This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We systematically searched Medline (PubMed), Embase, and The Cochrane Library between November 2022 and February 2023, using following Mesh Terms: Transplant, Transplantation, Hand, Face, Uterus, Penis, Abdominal Wall, Larynx, and Composite Tissue Allografts. All VCA case reports and reviews describing multiple case reports were included. RESULTS: We discovered 211 VCA cases reported. The preferred treatment was a combination of antithymocyte globulins, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), tacrolimus, and steroids; and a combination of MMF, tacrolimus, and steroids for induction and maintenance treatment, respectively. Burn patients showed a higher acute rejection rate (P = 0.073) and were administered higher MMF doses (P = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to previous statements, the field of VCA is not rapidly evolving, as it has encountered challenges in addressing immune-related concerns. This is highlighted by the absence of a standardized immunosuppression regimen. Consequently, more substantial data are required to draw more conclusive results regarding the immunogenicity of VCAs and the potential superiority of one immunosuppressive treatment over another. Future efforts should be made to report the VCA surgeries comprehensively, and muti-institutional long-term prospective follow-up studies should be performed to compare the number of acute rejections with influencing factors.

Evaluation of left ventricular function in patients with mitral annular disjunction using speckle tracking echocardiography.

BACKGROUND: Mitral annular disjunction (MAD) is a structural abnormality characterized by the systolic detachment of the posterior mitral annulus and the ventricular myocardium. It is usually observed coexistent with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and associated with a mechanical dysfunction despite preserved electrical isolation function of the mitral annulus. This study aimed to evaluate left ventricular (LV) function using speckle tracking echocardiography in MVP patients with MAD. METHODS: This study was designed as a prospective, single-center study including 103 patients with MVP and 40 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were performed to assess LV function and MAD presence. RESULTS: MAD (+) MVP (n = 34), MAD (-) MVP (n = 69), and control (n = 40) groups were enrolled in the study. Among the MVP patients, 34 (33%) had MAD. T-negativity in the inferior leads on electrocardiography was more frequent in the MAD (+) group than in the MAD (-) patients (4.3% vs. 20.6%, p = .014). Mitral regurgitation degree, Pickelhaube sign (17.6% vs. 1.4%, p = .005), and late gadolinium enhancement frequency (35.3% vs. 10.6%, p = .002) were significantly higher in MAD (+) patients. MAD (+) patients had significantly impaired global longitudinal strain (-23.1 ±  2.1 vs. -23.5 ± 2.3, p < .001), basal longitudinal strain (BLS) (-19.6 ±  1.5 vs. -20.5 ± 1.9, p < .001), Mid-Ventricular Longitudinal Strain (-22.2 ± 1.7 vs. -23.2 ± 2.2, p < .001) and LA strain (-24.5 ± 3.9 vs. -27.2 ± 3.6, p < .001) when compared to MAD (-) MVP patients, despite similar LV ejection fraction. All these values of MVP patients were also significantly lower than the control group. The mean MAD distance was 7.8 ± 3.2 mm in MAD (+) patients. Patients with two or more symptoms were higher in the MAD (+) group than in the MAD (-) group (4.3% vs. 44.1%, p < .001). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated a significant decrease in longitudinal strain in MVP patients with MAD, indicating myocardial dysfunction. These findings suggest that MAD may contribute to LV dysfunction and highlight the importance of early detection in younger patients. Further research is needed to explore the functional implications and long-term outcomes of MAD.

Earthquake victims in focus: a cross-sectional examination of trauma and management in intensive care unit.

BACKGROUND: After the Kahramanmaras earthquake of February 6, 2023, the disaster of the century, a significant number of victims were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). In this study, we aimed to share the characteristics and management of critical earthquake victims and shed light on our experiences as intensivists in future earthquakes. METHODS: The study included 62 earthquake victims in two tertiary ICUs. Demographic characteristics, laboratory findings, clinical characteristics, trauma and disease severity scores, treatments administered to patients, and the clinical course of the patients were recorded retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups, survivors and nonsurvivors, according to 7-day mortality and into two groups according to the duration of their stay under the rubble: those who remained under the rubble for 72 hours or less and those who remained under the rubble for more than 72 hours. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the best cutoff value for the 'Circulation, Respiration, Abdomen, Motor, and Speech' (CRAMS) score. RESULTS: The median age of the 62 patients included in the study was 35.5 (23-53) years. The median length of stay under the rubble for the patients was 30.5 (12-64.5) hours. The patient was transferred to the ward with a maximum duration of 222 hours under the rubble. The limb (75.8%) was the most common location of trauma in patients admitted to the ICU. Crush syndrome developed in 96.8% of the patients. There was a positive correlation between the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) and myoglobin, serum lactate, and uric acid levels (r = 0.372, p = 0.003; r = 0.307, p = 0.016; r = 0.428, p = 0.001, respectively). The best cutoff of the CRAMS score to predict in-7-day mortality was < 4.5 with 0.94 area under the curve (AUC); application of this threshold resulted in 75% sensitivity and 96.3% specificity. CONCLUSION: Search and rescue operations should continue for at least ten days after an earthquake. The CRAMS score can be used to assess trauma severity and predict mortality in critically ill earthquake victims.

The Relationship between Coronary Flow Reserve and the TyG Index in Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Background and Objectives: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by glucose intolerance during pregnancy. The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index, a marker of insulin resistance, and coronary flow reserve (CFR), a measure of coronary microvascular function, are emerging as potential indicators of cardiovascular risk. This study aims to investigate the association between CFR and the TyG index in GDM patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study of 87 GDM patients and 36 healthy controls was conducted. The participants underwent clinical assessments, blood tests, and echocardiographic evaluations. The TyG index was calculated as ln(triglycerides × fasting glucose/2). CFR was measured using Doppler echocardiography during rest and hyperemia induced by dipyridamole. Results: The study included 87 individuals in the GDM group and 36 individuals in the control group. There was no significant difference in age between the two groups (34.1 ± 5.3 years for GDM vs. 33.1 ± 4.9 years for the control, p = 0.364). The TyG index was significantly higher in the GDM group compared to the controls (p < 0.001). CFR was lower in the GDM group (p < 0.001). A negative correlation between the TyG index and CFR was observed (r = -0.624, p < 0.001). Linear regression revealed the TyG index as an independent predictor of reduced CFR. Conclusions: The study findings reveal a significant association between the TyG index and CFR in GDM patients, suggesting their potential role in assessing cardiovascular risk.

Galectin-3 as a Biomarker to Predict Cardiorenal Syndrome in Patients with Acute Heart Failure.

Background: Galectin-3 affects cardiac tissue inflammation as an inflammatory mediator. The development of cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure patients is associated with a poor prognosis. This study aims to investigate whether serum galectin-3 levels can be used as a biomarker to predict cardiorenal syndrome in heart failure patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Methods: A total of 166 symptomatic heart failure patients [New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class II-III] with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (≤ 40%) were recruited prospectively. Cardiorenal syndrome type 1 was defined as an acute worsening of cardiac function leading to renal dysfunction. The patients were divided into two groups with and without cardiorenal syndrome. The galectin-3 levels of all patients were determined. The primary outcome of this study was the occurrence of cardiorenal syndrome. Results: Cardiorenal syndrome developed in 41 patients. Galectin-3 levels were found to be higher in the patients with cardiorenal syndrome (+) compared to those without cardiorenal syndrome (-) (20.7 ± 2.9 ng/mL vs. 17.8 ± 3.1 ng/mL, p < 0.001). After performing a multivariable analysis, galectin-3 levels [odds ratio (OR): 3.21, p = 0.001], NYHA functional class (OR: 1.98, p = 0.009), creatinine (OR: 3.18, p = 0.006), furosemide dose (OR: 1.21, p = 0.033), and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin-receptor blockers usage (OR: 0.54, p = 0.029) were identified as independent predictors for the development of cardiorenal syndrome. Moreover, galectin-3 level demonstrated predictive capability for cardiorenal syndrome development (AUC = 0.761, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Serum galectin-3 level showed an association with cardiorenal syndrome development in patients with heart failure, indicating potential usefulness as a prognostic biomarker.

The Relationship between the MAGGIC Score and Cardiorenal Syndrome in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Background: The Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) is a scoring system that is easy to use in outpatient clinics or at the bedside, and was developed to predict the survival of heart failure patients after hospitalization. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the MAGGIC score and cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Methods: This retrospective, single-center study, included 706 patients with New York Heart Association II-IV who were hospitalized and discharged for acute decompensated heart failure between 2016 and 2021. CRS type 1 was defined as acute worsening of cardiac function leading to renal dysfunction. Patients were divided into two groups: those with CRS and those without. The MAGGIC score of all patients was determined. The primary outcome was the occurrence of CRS. Results: CRS developed in 132 patients. The MAGGIC score was higher in CRS (+) patients compared to CRS (-) patients (30.70 ± 8.09 vs. 23.96 ± 5.59, p < 0.001). After a multivariable analysis, MAGGIC score [odds ratio (OR): 3.92, p < 0.001], sodium (OR: 0.92, p = 0.003), N terminal pro B type natriuretic peptide (OR: 1.78, p = 0.009), hs troponin (OR: 1.28, p = 0.044), MRA (OR: 0.61, p = 0.019) and furosemide dose (OR: 1.03, p = 0.001) were found to be independent predictors of CRS development. The MAGGIC score was associated with CRS development (area under curve = 0.778). Conclusions: The MAGGIC score may be associated with CRS in HFrEF patients.

Recurrent arthritis as an unexpected side effect associated with azacitidine in a patient with myelodysplastic syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Hypomethylating agents have confirmed efficacy for myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia and are widely used. Although arthralgia is common side effect associated with hypomethylating agents, arthritis has not been reported previously. CASE REPORT: We present the first recorded patient with arthritis after azacitidine treatment. The patient we presented here had severe cytopenias requiring transfusion with erythrocyte and platelet suspensions, and a complete hematological response was obtained for myelodysplastic syndrome after three cycles of azacitidine (AZA) treatment. However, interestingly, after each AZA treatment cycle, the patient had recurrent attacks of arthritis. MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOMES: The episodes of arthritis were possibly acute flares of pre-existing crystal-induced arthritis, as exhibited with azacitidine treatments and were managed effectively with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. DISCUSSION: Because it is a rare condition, clinicians should not overlook AZA as a possible cause of arthritis exacerbations when arthritis of unknown etiology develops in patients treated with AZA.

Prognostic significance of addition of electrocardiographic findings to the MAGGIC heart failure risk score.

BACKGROUND: The Meta-analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) is a scoring system that is easy to use in outpatient or inpatient settings and was developed to predict the survival of heart failure (HF) patients after hospitalization. AIM: This study aims to determine the prognostic significance of MAGGIC risk score combined with electrocardiography (ECG) parameters in decompensated patients with heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) who were hospitalized for worsening HF. METHODS: A total of 562 HF patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) II-IV functional class who were discharged after hospitalization for decompensated HF between 2013 and 2018 in a single center were included. MAGGIC risk scores of all participating patients were calculated according to baseline characteristics gathered using data from the initial hospitalization for HF. In addition, electrocardiographic findings of all patients were examined. RESULTS: During the follow-up period (4.5 ± 1.2 years) 177 patients died. MAGGIC scores were observed to be higher in non-survivors compared to surviving patients (28.69 ± 7.01 vs. 22.82 ± 6.05, p < 0.001). After a multivariate analysis, MAGGIC score (OR:1.090, p < 0.001), development of cardio-renal syndrome (OR:2.035, p < 0.001), presence of left bundle branch block (LBBB) (OR:1.931, p < 0.001), atrial fibrillation (AF) (OR:1.817, p < 0.001), and fragmented QRS (fQRS) (OR:1.671, p = 0.002) on ECG were found to be independent predictors of mortality. While the MAGGIC score was shown to predict mortality (AUC = 0.739), its predictive power was improved when combined with AF (AUC = 0.752), LBBB (AUC = 0.745), and fQRS (AUC = 0.757) respectively, as well as in the combined final model (MAGGIC score, AF, LBBB, fQRS) (AUC = 0.787). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings showed that addition of electrocardiographic findings to the MAGGIC heart failure risk score has prognostic significance in decompensated patients with HFrEF.

The accuracy of three-dimensional ultrasonography in the diagnosis of Müllerian duct anomalies and its concordance with magnetic resonance imaging.

This retrospective study was performed to comparatively evaluate the diagnostic accuracies of three-dimensional ultrasonography (3D-US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for identification of Müllerian duct anomalies (MDAs). A total of 27 women with suspected MDAs underwent gynaecological examination, 2D-US, 3D-US and MRI, respectively. The MDAs were classified with respect to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology-European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESHRE/ESGE) and American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) systems. Based on the ESHRE/ESGE classification, there was a discrepancy for only one patient between US and MRI. Thus, the concordance between US and MRI was 26/27 (96.3%). With respect to ASRM classification, there was a disagreement between MRI and 3D-US in three patients, thus the concordance between MRI and 3D-US was 24/27 (88.9%). To conclude, the 3D-US has a good level of agreement with MRI for recognition of MDAs.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Müllerian duct anomalies (MDAs) are relatively common malformations of the female genital tract and they may adversely affect the reproductive potential. The establishment of accurate and timely diagnosis of these malformations is critical to overcome clinical consequences of MDAs.What the results of this study add? The concordance between US and MRI for diagnosis of MDAs based on ESHRE-ESGE classification and ASRM were 96.3% and 88.9%, respectively. These results indicate that 3D US has a satisfactory level of diagnostic accuracy for MDAs and it can be used in conjunction with MRI. Minimisation of diagnostic errors is important to improve reproductive outcome and to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Efforts must be spent to eliminate the discrepancies between the clinical and radiological diagnosis of MDAs. Further trials should be implemented for establishment and standardisation of radiological images for identification and classification of MDAs.

The evaluation of disease awareness, caregiver burden, and workday loss in caregivers of COPD patients.

BACKGROUND: Our aim is to determine the caregiver burden of chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) patient's caregivers, and to determine whether there is a workday loss. METHODS: 252 COPD patients and their caregivers were included. Disease information of the patients were recorded and a questionnaire was applied. Socio-demographic characteristics of the caregivers were recorded and a questionnaire consisting of 24 questions including COPD disease, treatment and loss of working days, and the Zarit Scale were used. RESULTS: 128(50.8%) of the patients according to GOLD were group-D, 97(38.5%) of the patient's relatives were working, 62(24.7%) were not able to go to work for 1-14 days, and 125(57.1%) spent outside the home from 1-14 nights, because those accompanied to patients. In univariate analysis were detected modified medical research council (mMRC) (p < 0.001), CAT (p < 0.001), the number of comorbidities of patients (p = 0.027), forced expiratory volume in 1 FEV1cc (p = 0.009), FEV1% (p < 0.001), the presence of long term oxygen therapy (LTOT), and the number of comorbidities of the patient's relatives (p = 0.06) increased the care load. In multiple linear regression analysis, age (p = 0.03), COPD assessment test (CAT) score (p = 0.001), FEV1% (<0.068) and the number of comorbidities of patients (p = 0.01) and the number of comorbidities of caregivers (p = 0.003) increased the caregiving burden. DISCUSSION: In COPD increases caregiving burden. This burden is greater in symptomatic patients and when comorbidities are present. Psychosocial and legal regulations should be investigated and solutions should be produced for the caregivers of COPD patients.

Prognostic value of right ventricular strain pattern on ECG in COVID-19 patients.

OBJECTIVE: COVID-19 spread worldwide, causing severe morbidity and mortality and this process still continues. The aim of this study to investigate the prognostic value of right ventricular (RV) strain in patients with COVID-19. METHODS: Consecutive adult patients admitted to the emergency room for COVID-19 between 1 and 30 April were included in this study. ECG was performed on hospital admission and was evaluated as blind. RV strain was defined as in the presence of one or more of the following ECG findings: complete or incomplete right ventricular branch block (RBBB), negative T wave in V1-V4 and presence of S1Q3T3. The main outcome measure was death during hospitalization. The relationship of variables to the main outcome was evaluated by multivariable Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 324 patients with COVID-19 were included in the study; majority of patients were male (187, 58%) and mean age was 64.2 ± 14.1. Ninety-five patients (29%) had right ventricular strain according to ECG and 66 patients (20%) had died. After a multivariable survival analysis, presence of RV strain on ECG (OR: 4.385, 95%CI: 2.226-8.638, p < 0.001), high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-TnI), d-dimer and age were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: Presence of right ventricular strain pattern on ECG is associated with in hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Clinical Outcomes of Extrapleural Closure of a Patent Ductus Arteriosus Concomitant with Aortic Coarctation Repair.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to present an extrapleural approach for the closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), with the repair of aortic coarctation (CoA) in the same session, in critically ill newborns and infants as an alternative to the transpleural surgical technique. METHODS: Between December 2007 and November 2010, 44 critically ill patients with PDA and coarctation of the aorta were operated on during the same session with the extrapleural approach. The diagnoses of the patients were made by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). We investigated the aortic arch, the length of the coarctation segment, peak-to-peak gradients, the aortic valve, and intracardiac defects prior to the surgery using TTE. Cardiac angiography was performed to determine whether the patients were suitable for an interventional approach in hemodynamically stable patients. Twenty-eight patients had congestive heart failure with mild to moderate pulmonary and systemic hypertension. The median gestational age and weight of neonates were 2.1 kg (range: 1.4 to 2.9 kg), and 31.4 weeks (range, 28.6 to 37 weeks), respectively. During the operations, PDA was closed using double clips. Resection of coarctation with an extended end-to-end anastomosis was performed in 27 patients. Subclavian flap angioplasty was performed in four patients, and an aortic patch repair was performed in two infants. Postoperative PDA flow and residual aortic gradient were evaluated using echocardiography prior to discharge from the hospital and during the follow-up period. RESULTS: There were three in-hospital deaths (6.8%). During the follow-up period, two patients died (4.8%). The mean follow-up period was 48.3±21.5 months (range: 29-56 months). Patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defect, and ventricular septal defect were the additional cardiac pathologies. These were hemodynamically insignificant. We detected that the intracardiac defects closed spontaneously. During the follow-up period, recoarctation developed in six patients (20%). We found that the risk factors for recoarctation in patients were to have a gradient from coarctation area, which was higher than ≥ 50 mmHg, and the length of coarctation segment that was longer than 1 cm in their first operation (P = 0.033). The median time from the first surgery to recoarctation was 25.4±13.2 months (range: 16-36 months). Balloon dilatation was performed in four patients. We performed redo-surgery in the remaining two patients with recoarctation. The mean intubation time was 9.1±13.4 hours (range: 5.8-19.8 hours). Transthoracic echocardiography showed normal left ventricular dimensions and systolic function in 34 patients during follow up (87.1%). CONCLUSION: Our experiences show that surgical repair of aortic coarctation and PDA closure at the same session may be performed safely and with acceptable mortality and morbidity via an extrapleural approach. Interventional approach as a less invasive method may be used in patients who have developed recoarctation.

Urgent Percutaneous Coronary Artery Intervention and Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in STEMI Patients with Confirmed COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: Our aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac symptoms, coronary angiographic results, and clinical outcomes of patients with confirmed COVID-19 and ST-segment elevation with myocardial infarction (STEMI) or myocardial ischemia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-seven patients, who already were confirmed with COVID-19 using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), were admitted to our hospital due to chest pain with STEMI. The median patient age was 66 years (range: 27-84 years). Female/male ratio was 22/15. We performed a second RT-PCR test in all patients. We investigated myocardial enzymes (creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), cardiac troponin-I (c-TnI), and C-reactive protein (CRP), and liver enzymes (alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) also were measured. Blood d-dimer, thromboplastin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and fibrinogen were investigated. Transcutaneous oxygen saturation was monitored for each patient in the emergency department (ED). To evaluate myocardial wall abnormalities, transthoracic echocardiography was performed. RESULTS: Coronary artery disorders requiring revascularization were detected in 25 patients (67.5%). There was no evidence of coronary artery disease in the remaining 12 patients. Out of 25, nine coronary artery disease patients had a history of coronary intervention (24.3%). All patients had high levels of myocardial enzyme release. Percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) were performed in patients with culprit lesion(s). Success rate of PCI was 87.5% (N = 21). The median number of stent use was 2.9±0.7 (range: 1-4). Because PCI failed in four patients, we suggested elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery after medical treatment. Six patients required re-intervention owing to early stent thrombosis (30%). Seven patients died after PCI (33.3%). For patients with negative or positive RT-PCR test results, we performed thoracic computed tomography (CT), which is a sensitive diagnostic method for COVID-19. Interlobular septal and pleural thickening with patchy bronchiectasis in the bilateral or unilaterally lower and/or middle lobe(s) were the main pathologies in 24 patients. D-dimer, fibrinogen, and CRP levels were high in 11 PCI patients with bilaterally pulmonary involvement by COVID-19 (52.3%), while fibrin degradation products did not significantly change. For three patients with normal coronary arteries with a transient hypokinesia or hypokinesia as result of myocarditis, we decided to perform atypical Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. We medically treated using inodilator (levosimendan), diuretic, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and beta-blockers. To prevent the risk of thromboembolism, we also administered a heparin drip. The myocardial contractility of the apex did improve, and patients were discharged from the hospital, with the exception of one young female patient. She is following in the ICU with stabil hemodynamics. CONCLUSION: Chest pain with STEMI can develop in patients with confirmed COVID-19. Nearly one-third of patients had COVID-19 with chest pain and concomitant STEMI and normal coronary angiography (32.4%). Urgent PCI may be performed in hemodynamically unstable patients with high mortality. Complications, including sudden cardiac arrest, severe ventricular arrhythmia, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, related to COVID-19 patients with normal coronary arteries.

The Outcomes of Patients Incidentally Confirmed with Covid-19 After Cardiac Surgery.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical outcomes of cardiac surgery in patients who were incidentally diagnosed with Covid-19 in the postoperative period. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed 826 open cardiac surgeries in five tertiary centers. Most of the surgeries were elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (93.8%). A preoperative RT-PCR test and transcutaneous oxygen saturation were routinely investigated prior to surgery. We also investigated whether the patients already received Covid-19 treatment or had any contact with a Covid-19 patient in the last two weeks. We analyzed high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), d-dimer, and fibrinogen, which plays a main role in the activation of procoagulant state after surgeries. RESULTS: Acute lung injury related to Covid-19 activation was observed in 48 out of 826 patients (5.8%). The median age of 48 patients was 63.9±12.4 years. Euro-Score and body mass index (BMI) were 6.1±1.1 and 29.2±4.1kg/m², respectively. RT-PCR test results were positive in 29 patients (60.4%). We performed thoracic computed tomography (CT) in all patients with or without positive RT-PCR test results. Thoracic CT images showed that there was a different degree of ARDS (mild, moderate, and serious). The median time of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) was 93.2±14.6 min. in on-pump surgery (IQR, 68-155 min.). Common symptoms included dyspnea (N = 22; 45.8%) and fever (N = 12; 25%). Eleven patients needed readmission to ICU. Compared with non-admitted to ICU patients, ICU patients were higher comorbidities and severe laboratory abnormalities (eg, high blood d-dimer and fibrinogen). We also detected significantly low oxygen saturation, hypercapnia, and severe acidosis in readmitted patients. Radiologic investigations showed that there were severe ARDS with bilateral pneumonic infiltration resistant to medical treatment in 6 out of 11 patients who died (54.5%). CONCLUSION: Diffuse pneumonic infiltration related to Covid-19 may develop in asymptomatic cardiac surgery patients with negative RT-PCR test results. Immunologic disorders resulting from ECC, physiologic distress, and anesthesia may activate Covid-19 during the incubation period. We need randomized clinical trials to explain Covid-19 activation in the latent period of the virus, and clinical outcomes in cardiac surgery.

Ten-Year Clinical Experience on Chylothorax after Cardiovascular Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Chylothorax or pseudo-chylothorax is a serious complication after adult and pediatric cardiac surgery. This study presents our 10-year clinical experience of chylothorax after cardiac surgery. METHODS: Between January 2008 and February 2019, 4896 cardiovascular surgeries were performed in 2 tertiary clinics, with 416 patients in the pediatric age group (8.4%). Chylothorax and pseudo-chylothorax were detected in 47 patients (22 adult and 20 pediatric patients, 4.8%). Pseudo-chylothorax was seen in 5 adult patients. In 27 patients, a pleural effusion developed on the left side (64.2%). Quantities of chylomicron in pleural effusion were significant in all patients. In addition, protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels were >2.9 g/dL. The cholesterol level in the pleural effusion was >2.49 mmol/L in all patients. The mean latency period was 8 days (range 3.1 to 63.1). For the management of chylothorax, somatostatin or octreotide as a somatostatin analog was administered in 23 patients (15 adult and 8 pediatric) in the intensive care unit. Somatostatin or octreotide was administered intravenously or subcutaneously at a dose of 0.3 to 4 µg/(kg · h-1). We used dexamethasone as a steroid combined with somatostatin in patients who were resistant to medical treatment before pleurodesis or ductus closure. Classic chemical pleurodesis combined with fibrin glue was performed in 11 patients (8 adult and 3 pediatric). Surgical duct ligation, as the last option, was performed in 7 patients. RESULTS: No mortality or morbidity was observed. Chylothorax improved with the medical approach in 23 patients within 24.2 ± 11.3 days (48.9%). We successfully performed the pleurodesis procedure using fibrin glue in addition to the classic method. The mean duration of conservative treatment was 27.1 days (range 11 to 39). After discharge from the hospital, 2 children had recurrence of chylothorax, and the ductus thoracicus was surgically ligated. No complication was seen during or after ductus ligation. CONCLUSIONS: According to our clinical experience, chylothorax is not an extremely rare complication after cardiac surgery in pediatric cardiovascular surgery. A number of patients with chylothorax may be treated medically and with diet adjustment. Medical treatment including steroid administration may be the first treatment strategy immediately after diagnosis. Classic chemical pleurodesis combined with fibrin glue may be applied in the early stages. Surgical ligation of the ductus thoracicus should be considered the last treatment option.

Clinical Outcomes of Synchronous Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy with Coronary Artery Revascularization.

BACKGROUND: There are limited data about the results of simultaneous coronary revascularization, either with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and cholecystectomy operations. Here we present clinical outcomes of the patients who underwent simultaneous laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and coronary revascularization at the same session. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We included a total of 19 patients who underwent simultaneous LC and CABG or PCI. Thirteen of them had been hospitalized because of acute cholecystitis prior to coronary angiography. Simultaneous CABG and LC were performed in 10 patients (group I). LC was performed immediately after CABG surgery at the same session. PCI (group II) was performed in 9 patients. In the PCI group, LC was performed under general anesthesia 2 or 3 days after PCI. RESULTS: No mortality was seen after the procedures. In the CABG group, the mean number of bypass grafts was 3.4 ± 1.9. The mean extracorporeal circulation and the total operation times were 95 ± 13.5 minutes and 259 ± 18.9 minutes, respectively; the mean intubation duration was 17 ± 4.8 hours. In the PCI group, the mean number of stents per patient was 2.1 ± 0.7; LC was performed 2 or 3 days after the PCI without the cessation of clopidogrel and acetylsalicylic acid. The mean operation times for LC were 56.5 ± 15.6 minutes and 51.3 ± 17.6 minutes in the CABG and PCI groups, respectively (P = .86). In the CABG group, the mean durations of ICU and hospital stays were 3.1 ± 1.4 and 14.2 ± 3.7 days, respectively. In the PCI group, the mean durations of ICU stay and hospitalization were 1.7 ± 0.4 and 7.4 ± 2.2 days, respectively. Significant differences were found between the 2 groups in terms of the intubation time, duration of ICU stay, and hospitalization periods (P =.001, P =.0001, and P =.001, respectively). No intra-abdominal complications or bleeding was encountered in any group. Postoperative complications of the abdominal wall or mediastinitis were not seen in the setting of concomitant procedures in the CABG group. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous CABG or PCI with LC may be performed safely in patients with cholecystitis. The durations of postcholecystectomy ICU stay and the intubation time were significantly lower in the PCI group. According to our results, PCI may be the first choice of revascularization procedure in selected patients requiring cholecystectomy prior to discharge.

Regional distribution of genetic mutation in lung cancer in Turkey (REDIGMA).

INTRODUCTION: The results of standard chemotherapy in lung cancer are not very satisfactory, so it is important to identify genetic mutations that provide targeted therapies. Recent reports have suggested influences of racial difference on the frequency of mutation in lung cancer. We aimed to determine the frequency and regional distribution of genetic mutations of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in Turkey. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Regional distribution of genetic mutations in lung cancer in Turkey (REDIGMA) study was carried out as a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study in a large number of centers in which lung cancer patients were followed and could perform genetic mutation analysis on patients' biopsy materials. RESULT: The 703 patients (77.7% male, mean age 63.3 ± 12.5 years) who were diagnosed as NSCLC from 25 different centers were included in the study. Tumor samples from patients were reported as 87.1% adenocarcinoma, 6.4% squamous cell carcinoma and 6.5% other. Mutation tests were found to be positive in 18.9% of these patients. The mutations were 69.9% EGFR, 26.3% ALK, 1.6% ROS and 2.2% PDL. Mutations were higher in women and non-smokers (p<0.000, p<0.001). Again, the frequency of mutations in adenocarcinoma was higher in metastatic disease. There was no difference between the patient's age, area of residence, comorbidity and clinical stage and mutation frequency. CONCLUSIONS: Our study revealed that the EGFR mutation rate in Turkey with NSCLC was similar to East European, African-American and Caucasian patients, and was lower than in East Asia.

A prospective cohort study on the prediction of the diagnosis-to-delivery time in preeclamptic pregnancies: should the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio be added to routine evaluations?

PURPOSE: To analyze the clinical and laboratory factors that potentially affect the diagnosis-to-delivery time in preeclamptic pregnancies. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we followed 24 early onset preeclampsia (E-PE) and 26 late-onset preeclampsia (L-PE) cases. Maternal serum samples were obtained at the time of diagnosis and stored at - 80 °C until ELISA analysis for soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (SFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) levels. RESULTS: The median follow-up duration was 68 (1-339) h in the E-PE group and 330 (7-1344) h in the L-PE group. Maternal mean arterial pressure (MAP) at hospitalization was the strongest variable, and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio added significantly to the Cox regression model. In the E-PE cases, the median sFlt-1/PlGF ratio was significantly higher in the subgroup with a follow-up duration > 48 h than in the subgroup of cases with a follow-up duration ≤ 48 h (5109 vs. 2080; p = 0.038), and none of the seven cases with an sFlt-1/PlGF ratio ≥ 75th percentile delivered during the first 48 h. Neither the 24-h proteinuria nor the gestational age at diagnosis added to the predictive power of the MAP at hospitalization. CONCLUSION: Incorporation of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio to the routine evaluation of preeclamptic pregnancies may help in the prediction of progression and management planning.

A prospective study on first trimester prediction of ischemic placental diseases.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study is to assess the predictive power of mean uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA PI), maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and placenta associated plasma protein A levels for the development of ischemic placental diseases (IPD) in a cohort of unselected singleton pregnancies during the first trimester combined test period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sample of 880 pregnancies was registered between September 2014 and January 2016. After routine examination for first trimester combined test, UtA PI was measured, and maternal serum was obtained and stored at -80 °C for PlGF assessment. RESULTS: Early-onset preeclampsia, late-onset preeclampsia and placental dysfunction-related fetal growth restriction were observed in 6 (0.7%), 17 (2.0%) and 27 (3.2%) cases, respectively. IPD requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation could be predicted with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 76.2%, 90.2%, 20.2% and 99.1%, respectively. CONCLUSION: A combination of UtA PI, placenta associated plasma protein A and PlGF was proven to be successful in the first trimester prediction of IPD, with the highest sensitivity in the subgroup who required delivery before 34 weeks of gestation. In reducing the number of pregnancies that should be followed-up, further studies for new biomarkers are needed. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pregnancy-Related Cardiovascular Complications: Case Presentation and Review of Literature.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular complications that can cause severe catastrophic outcomes for both the mother and the fetus are rarely seen during pregnancy. Time to diagnosis is often delayed by a low degree of suspicion and atypical presentation. We report surgical strategies in three pregnant women with cardiovascular complications. METHODS: A retrospective search from 2009 to 2016 identified three pregnant women who underwent urgent cardiac surgery. We used extracorporeal circulation (ECC) without cesarean section with careful follow-up of the fetuses during the perioperative and postoperative period. We used levosimendan as a potent inodilator in all patients to increase feto-placental blood flow and fetal heart rhythm. RESULTS: Median time to diagnosis was 23.8 h (range 11.7-120 h) and median time from diagnosis to arrival in the operating theater was 9.8 h (range 7.4-19.8 h). One patient with prosthetic heart valve thrombosis underwent concomitant cesarean section prior to cardiac surgery. In a young pregnant woman who had spontaneous dissection of the left anterior descending artery, on-pump beating heart coronary artery bypass grafting was performed without cross clamping. Two and three months after surgery, cesarean sections were performed without any complication in two pregnant women. CONCLUSION: Because unusual cardiovascular complications are the main cause of maternal and/or fetus death during pregnancy, prompt and exact diagnosis is very important. Life-saving surgical strategy with the help of appropriate teams are necessary to optimize outcome for both mother and baby.