Incidence, Clinical Characteristics, and Impact of Absent Echocardiographic Signs in Patients With Infective Endocarditis After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

BACKGROUND: Echocardiography is the primary imaging modality for diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) in prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) including IE after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients with absent compared with evident echocardiographic signs of TAVI-IE. METHODS: Patients with definite TAVI-IE derived from the Infectious Endocarditis after TAVI International Registry were investigated comparing those with absent and evident echocardiographic signs of IE defined as vegetation, abscess, pseudo-aneurysm, intracardiac fistula, or valvular perforation or aneurysm. RESULTS: Among 578 patients, 87 (15.1%) and 491 (84.9%) had absent (IE-neg) and evident (IE-pos) echocardiographic signs of IE, respectively. IE-neg were more often treated via a transfemoral access with a self-expanding device and had higher rates of peri-interventional complications (eg, stroke, major vascular complications) during the TAVI procedure (P < .05 for all). IE-neg had higher rates of IE caused by Staphylococcus aureus (33.7% vs 23.2%; P = .038) and enterococci (37.2% vs 23.8%; P = .009) but lower rates of coagulase-negative staphylococci (4.7% vs 20.0%, P = .001). IE-neg was associated with the same dismal prognosis for in-hospital mortality in a multivariate binary regression analysis (odds ratio: 1.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: .55-4.12) as well as a for 1-year mortality in Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio: 1.10; 95% CI: .67-1.80). CONCLUSIONS: Even with negative echocardiographic imaging, patients who have undergone TAVI and presenting with positive blood cultures and symptoms of infection are a high-risk patient group having a reasonable suspicion of IE and the need for an early treatment initiation.

Association between Dental and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review.

Background: The link between dental, infective and obstructive cardiovascular diseases is debatable. Aim: To systematically review the literature to assess the association between dental conditions and development of cardiovascular disease. Methods: The systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines using PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE and SciELO. Results: Out of 6680 records, 82 articles were eligible for inclusion after reviewing titles and abstracts. No association between dental disease and cardiovascular disease has been observed in 10 studies while a potential link has been suggested by the remaining trials. Tooth loss and periodontitis are the main evaluated oral conditions while coronary artery disease, stroke, atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction represent the major cardiovascular events. The interaction between these two clinical entities is based on direct mechanism mediated by systemic inflammatory response, leakage of cytokines and endothelial cells invasion by oral pathogens and indirect mechanism mediated by common risk factors or confounders. Conclusions: It seems that tooth loss, periodontitis and poor oral hygiene increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events, and subsequently oral health care professionals could contribute to public health cardiovascular control efforts.

Perivalvular Extension of Infective Endocarditis After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

BACKGROUND: Infective endocarditis (IE) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been associated with a dismal prognosis. However, scarce data exist on IE perivalvular extension (PEE) in such patients. METHODS: This multicenter study included 579 patients who had the diagnosis of definite IE at a median of 171 (53-421) days following TAVR. PEE was defined as the presence of an intracardiac abscess, pseudoaneurysm, or fistula. RESULTS: A total of 105 patients (18.1%) were diagnosed with PEE (perivalvular abscess, pseudoaneurysm, fistula, or a combination in 87, 7, 7, and 4 patients, respectively). A history of chronic kidney disease (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj], 2.08; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27-3.41; P = .003) and IE secondary to coagulase-negative staphylococci (ORadj, 2.71; 95% CI: 1.57-4.69; P < .001) were associated with an increased risk of PEE. Surgery was performed at index IE episode in 34 patients (32.4%) with PEE (vs 15.2% in patients without PEE, P < .001). In-hospital and 2-year mortality rates among PEE-IE patients were 36.5% and 69.4%, respectively. Factors independently associated with an increased mortality were the occurrence of other complications (stroke post-TAVR, acute renal failure, septic shock) and the lack of surgery at index IE hospitalization (padj < 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS: PEE occurred in about one-fifth of IE post-TAVR patients, with the presence of coagulase-negative staphylococci and chronic kidney disease determining an increased risk. Patients with PEE-IE exhibited high early and late mortality rates, and surgery during IE hospitalization seemed to be associated with better outcomes.

Long-Term Outcomes of Conservative Versus Invasive Approach of Coronary Aneurysm.

Introduction: Up to date, the management of coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is not well defined and depends on local heart team decision. Data reported in literature are scarce and controversial. We aim to compare the long-term outcomes of different therapeutic strategies of CAA (medical vs percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) vs coronary artery bypass graft(CABG)). Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 100 consecutive patients who underwent coronary angiography at Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse France and fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of CAA. Coronary angiograms were reviewed, and all necessary data were collected. CAA was defined by a coronary dilation exceedingly at least 50% of reference coronary diameter. Results: We identified 100 patients with CAA with a mean age of 67.9 ± 12 years. The left anterior descending coronary artery was most affected (36%). CAA is associated with significant coronary artery disease in 78% of cases. The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was 13% during a median follow-up period of 46.2 ± 24 months. A 53% of patients underwent PCI or CABG. The rate of MACCE was lower in CABG group (9.1%) compared to PCI (14.3%) and medical (12.8%) groups, but without reaching statistically significant level. Longitudinal aneurysm diameter was positively linked to MACCE [OR = 1.109, 95% CI (1.014-1.214), p = 0.024]. No benefits have been attributed to anticoagulant regimen over antiplatelet therapy. Conclusions: In our retrospective observational study, there seems to be no significant differences in MACCE-free survival between all groups (Medical vs PCI vs CABG). Larger longitudinal aneurysm diameter was identified as a predictor of poor prognosis during follow-up.

Temporal Trends, Characteristics, and Outcomes of Infective Endocarditis After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

BACKGROUND: Procedural improvements combined with the contemporary clinical profile of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) may have influenced the incidence and outcomes of infective endocarditis (IE) following TAVR. We aimed to determine the temporal trends, characteristics, and outcomes of IE post-TAVR. METHODS: Observational study including 552 patients presenting definite IE post-TAVR. Patients were divided in 2 groups according to the timing of TAVR (historical cohort [HC]: before 2014; contemporary cohort [CC]: after 2014). RESULTS: Overall incidence rates of IE were similar in both cohorts (CC vs HC: 5.45 vs 6.52 per 1000 person-years; P = .12), but the rate of early IE was lower in the CC (2.29‰ vs 4.89‰, P < .001). Enterococci were the most frequent microorganism. Most patients presented complicated IE ( CC: 67.7%; HC: 69.6%; P = .66), but the rate of surgical treatment remained low (CC: 20.7%; HC: 17.3%; P = .32). The CC exhibited lower rates of in-hospital acute kidney injury (35.1% vs 44.6%; P = .036) and in-hospital (26.6% vs 36.4%; P = .016) and 1-year (37.8% vs 53.5%; P < .001) mortality. Higher logistic EuroScore, Staphylococcus aureus etiology, and complications (stroke, heart failure, and acute renal failure) were associated with in-hospital mortality in multivariable analyses (P < .05 for all). CONCLUSIONS: Although overall IE incidence has remained stable, the incidence of early IE has declined in recent years. The microorganism, high rate of complications, and very low rate of surgical treatment remained similar. In-hospital and 1-year mortality rates were high but progressively decreased over time.

Prevalence of Posttranscatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Vascular Complications in Real Life.

BACKGROUND: Vascular complications (VCs) are commonly observed after transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures. Closure devices for the access site were developed to reduce their incidence. We aim to evaluate the prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of the occurrence of post-TAVI VCs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 1336 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI at the University Hospital of Toulouse, France, between January 2016 and March 2020. All included procedures were performed through the common femoral artery, and ProGlide® was the used closure device. The studied population was divided into two groups depending on the occurrence of VCs defined according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the studied population was 84.4 ± 6.9, and 48% were male. 90% of TAVI interventions were performed through the right femoral artery. The prevalence of VCs was 18.8%, and 3.7% were major. Prolonged procedure duration was an independent predictor of VCs. Using the right access site and smaller introducer size (14 Fr) were preventive factors. No significant difference in mortality rate was detected between the two groups. CONCLUSION: This study showed a low prevalence for post-TAVI VCs, especially for the major type. An increase in bleeding events and prolonged cardiac care unit stay were the common adverse outcomes.

Quantitative assessment of tricuspid regurgitation using right and left ventricular stroke volumes obtained from tomographic equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography.

BACKGROUND: Quantitative assessment of valve regurgitation using volumetric method by comparing right and left ventricular stroke volumes is still under investigations. AIMS: To investigate the accuracy of tomographic equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography (t-ERV) for the quantification of tricuspid regurgitation (TR). METHODS AND RESULTS: Sixty-one patients (44 men; mean age 59 ± 12 years) who underwent both t-ERV and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) studies within 2 weeks for right ventricular systolic function assessment were eligible for inclusion. A sub-group of 22 patients underwent both t-ERV and CMR. Patients with mitral/aortic regurgitation by TTE were excluded of the study. TR regurgitant volume (RVol) was calculated using the proximal isovelocity surface area (PISA) method from TTE and the volumetric method (right ventricular stroke volume minus left ventricular stroke volume) from t-ERV. There was a significant correlation between RVol as assess by ERV and by TTE (R = 0.95, P < 0.0001). Intraclass correlation coefficient between TTE and ERV for TR quantification was 0.95 (P < 0.0001). Among patients who underwent CMR, the correlation between RVol obtained by TTE and by t-ERV and CMR were R = 0.81 and R = 0.75, respectively (all P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: TR assessment using the t-ERV correlates well with PISA from TTE in patients referred for right ventricular systolic function assessment.

Short- and Mid-Term Prognosis of Patients Undergoing Rotational Atherectomy in Aortoostial Coronary Lesions in Left Main or Right Coronary Arteries.

OBJECTIVE: To determine short-term and mid-term prognosis in patients with calcified ostial coronary lesions who underwent rotational atherectomy (RA). BACKGROUND: RA was developed to facilitate stenting in complex lesions. Treatment of calcified aortoostial coronary lesions with RA appears to have poorer procedure outcomes than nonostial lesions; yet the literature on this topic is scarce. METHODS: Of 498 consecutive patients who underwent RA, a total of 80 (16.1%) presented with aortoostial lesions. A comparative, monocentric study was performed between patients with aortoostial and nonaortoostial stenosis, in a retrospective registry. The primary endpoint was the procedural success rate. Secondary endpoints were the rates of major adverse cardiac and cardiovascular events (MACE) at 30 days and 24 months. RESULTS: The procedural success rate was high and similar in patients with and without ostial lesions (96.3% vs 94.7%, p=0.78), as was the rate of angiographic complications (7.5% vs 8.4%, p=0.80). However, the 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in the aortoostial group (11.3% vs 4.8%, p=0.04), as was the 24-month rate of MACE (43.8% vs 31.8%, p=0.04). The aortoostial location of the lesion was an independent factor associated with the occurrence of cardiovascular events at 24 months (HR = 1.52, 95% CI, 1.03-2.26, p=0.035). CONCLUSION: Procedural success and complication rates were similar in patients with and without aortoostial lesions. Despite a poor short- and mid-term prognosis, rotational atherectomy appears to be a feasible and safe treatment option for calcified aortoostial coronary lesions.

Significant mitral regurgitation in patients undergoing TAVR: Mechanisms and imaging variables associated with improvement.

BACKGROUND: Significant mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with poorer outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Factors associated with MR improvement have not been studied thoroughly. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of consecutive patients treated with TAVR with more than mild MR at baseline. MR evolution was assessed at 1-3 and 6-12 months after intervention. MR severity and mechanisms were assessed by echocardiography. Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) was quantified using preoperative cardiac CT. RESULTS: From 674 consecutive TAVR recipients, 78 with more than mild MR had a 6-12 months follow-up. Following TAVR, MR improved in 34 patients (43%), remained stable in 38 (49%) and worsened in 6 (8%). Patients with MR improvement had greater tenting area (141 ± 56 vs. 99 ± 40 mm2 , P < 0.01), tenting height (7.2 ± 1.9 vs. 5.6 ± 1.9 mm, P < 0.01) and lower ejection fraction (43 ± 16 vs. 52 ± 14%, P = 0.01). MAC was frequent (87.7% of patients) and a trend in greater MAC was observed in patients without MR improvement (3560 ± 5587 vs. 2053 ± 2800, P = 0.16). In multivariable analysis, tenting area (OR per 10 mm2 increase: 1.012, 95% CI, 1.001-1.024 P = 0.039) and annulus calcifications associated with leaflet restriction (OR = 0.108, 95% CI, 0.012-0.956, P = 0.045) were independently associated with MR outcome after TAVR. CONCLUSION: Larger mitral valve tenting area was associated with more improvement of MR after TAVR whereas extensive MAC associated with leaflet restriction was associated with less improvement. This may help in the clinical decision-making process of TAVR candidates with concomitant MR.

Predictors and Association With Clinical Outcomes of the Changes in Exercise Capacity After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

BACKGROUND: At present, there are no objective data specifically examining the clinical impact of variations in exercise capacity post-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We describe the changes in exercise capacity between baseline and 6 months post-TAVR, and ascertain factors associated with and clinical implications of a lack of improvement in exercise capacity post-TAVR. METHODS: A total of 305 patients (mean age, 79±9 years; 44% men; Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk mortality score, 6.7±4.2%) undergoing TAVR completed both baseline and follow-up exercise capacity assessments at 6 months post-TAVR. Exercise capacity was evaluated by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Clinical outcomes were compared between patients displaying greater than (n=152; improving group) versus less than (n=153; nonimproving group) the median percentage change in distance walked between baseline and 6-month follow-up examinations. The primary outcome measure was clinical event rates, measured from the 6-month post-TAVR period onward. Further dichotomization according to baseline 6MWT distance (less than versus more than median walking distance, or slow walker versus fast walker) was also assessed. RESULTS: The mean overall distances walked pre- and post-TAVR (6 months post-TAVR) were 204±119 and 263±116 m, respectively (Δ6MWT=60±106 m), with 219 (72%) patients demonstrating an increase in their walking distance (median percentage increase of the entire population was 20% [interquartile range, 0%-80%]). Factors independently correlated with reduced exercise capacity improvement included a range of baseline clinical characteristics (older age, female sex, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; P<0.05 for all), periprocedural major or life-threatening bleeding (P=0.009) and new-onset anemia at 6 months post-TAVR (P=0.009). Failure to improve the 6MWT distance by at least 20% was independently associated with all-cause mortality (P=0.002) and cardiovascular death or rehospitalization for cardiovascular causes (P=0.001). Baseline slow walkers who were able to improve the 6MWT distance presented with significantly better outcomes than nonimprovers (P=0.01 for all-cause mortality; P=0.001 for cardiovascular end point). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately one-third of patients undergoing TAVR did not improve their exercise capacity postprocedure. The lack of functional improvement post-TAVR was predicted by a mix of baseline and periprocedural factors translating into poorer clinical outcomes. These results suggest that systematically implementing exercise capacity assessment pre- and post-TAVR may help to improve patient risk stratification.

Long-term outcomes of rotational atherectomy of underexpanded stents. A single center experience.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the procedural and long-term outcomes of the use of rotational atherectomy (RA) in underexpanded stents in our cohort and to provide an overview of currently available data on this technique. BACKGROUND: Stent underexpansion (SU) has been related to stent thrombosis and restenosis. RA has been used to treat undilatable SU as a bail-out strategy with encouraging results. METHODS: This is an observational, single-center study. We included patients who underwent stentablation between 2013 and 2017. Baseline demographics, procedural results, in-hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE), and long-term follow-up MACE were retrospectively collected. RESULTS: A total of 11 patients (90.9% males, mean age 65.4 ± 18.6) were included in this study. Median left ventricle ejection fraction was 53.5% [46.2-55]. Median calculated Syntax score was 16 [9-31] and 45.5% of patients were admitted for acute coronary syndrome. Radial approach was used in 63.6% of cases. Most patients only required one burr (45% used a 1.5 mm diameter burr) during the intervention. Procedural success was achieved in 90.9% of the cases. Acute lumen gain was 42.7% [30.7-61.49]. There were no in-hospital deaths or MACE. At a median follow-up of 26 months, only one patient (9.1%) suffered MACE in the context of acute coronary syndrome, and two patients (18.2%) required non-target lesion revascularization. No deaths were reported. CONCLUSIONS: RA of under expanded stents is a feasible option with a high rate of procedural success. At long-term follow-up, all of them were alive and 90.9% of patients remained free from MACE.

Outcomes after use of covered stents to treat coronary artery perforations. Comparison of old and new-generation covered stents.

OBJECTIVES: To compare outcomes in patients receiving polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyurethane (PL) covered stents (CS) after coronary artery perforation (CAP). BACKGROUND: The prognosis of CAP has improved with the advent of CSs. Information is scarce about the outcomes of new-generation CSs. METHODS: Sixty-one patients were treated with CSs in a 5-years period (age = 77 ± 8.75% males). Procedural and clinical data were retrospectively collected. The primary endpoint was procedural success. Secondary endpoints included death and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) defined as a composite of death, myocardial infarction, target vessel, and lesion revascularization and need for surgical repair). RESULTS: Twenty-two (36%) received PL-CSs and 39 (65%) PTFE-CSs. There were no differences in procedural success (86% vs 69%, P = 0.216). Time to deliver was shorter with PL-CS despite larger length of stents (8[11] vs 15[16] min, P = 0.001; 20[5] vs 16[3] mm, P < 0.001). This group had lower rate of pericardial effusion and cardiac arrest (41% vs 72%, P = 0.028; 5% vs 26%, P = 0.045). At 1-year follow-up, MACE rates were similar (58% vs 56%, P = 1.000) with atrend toward TVR in the PL-CS arm (21% vs 5%, P = 0.083). No differences were found in mortality (26% vs 41%, P = 0.385). Each group had 1 stent thrombosis and in-stent restenosis trended higher in the PL-CS group (12% vs 3%, P = 0.223). CONCLUSIONS: Time to deliver was shorter with the PL-CS and resulted in lower rate of pericardial effusion and cardiac arrest. However, there were no significant differences in procedural success and 1-year follow-up MACE in patients treated with PL-CS or PTFE-CS.

Unidirectional left-to-right interatrial shunting for treatment of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a safety and proof-of-principle cohort study.

BACKGROUND: In patients with heart failure, interventions to reduce elevated left atrial pressure improve symptoms and reduce the risk of hospital admission. We aimed to assess the safety and potential efficacy of therapeutic left-to-right interatrial shunting in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. METHODS: We did this proof-of-principle cohort study at one centre in Canada. Patients (aged ≥18 years) with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction were enrolled under the Canadian special access programme. Shunt implants were done after transseptal catheterisation with transoesophageal echocardiographic guidance under general anaesthesia. Patients had clinical and echocardiography evaluations at baseline and months 1 and 3 after shunt implantation. FINDINGS: Between Oct 10, 2013, and March 27, 2015, we enrolled ten patients. The device was successfully implanted in all patients; no device-related or procedural adverse events occurred during follow-up. Transoesophageal echocardiography at 1 month showed that all shunts were patent, with no thrombosis or migration. From baseline to 3 month follow-up, we recorded improvements in NYHA classification (from class III to class II in seven [78%] of nine patients, from class III to class I in one [11%] patient, and no change in one [11%] patient; p=0·0004); quality of life, as assessed by the Duke Activity Status Index (from a mean score of 13 [SD 6·2] to 24·8 [12·9]; p=0·016) and the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (from a mean score of 44·3 [SD 9·8] to 79·1 [13·0]; p=0·0001); and 6 min walk test distance (from a mean of 244 m [SD 112] to 318 m [134]; p=0·016). Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was reduced from a mean of 23 mm Hg (SD 5) at baseline to 17 mm Hg (8) at 3 months (p=0·035), with no changes in right atrial pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, or pulmonary resistance. No patient was admitted to hospital for worsening heart failure. One (10%) patient was admitted to hospital with gastrointestinal bleeding at month 1; one (10%) patient died after incessant ventricular tachycardia storm, which led to terminal heart failure 2 months post-procedure. INTERPRETATION: This first-in-man experience with an implanted left-to-right interatrial shunt demonstrates initial safety and early beneficial clinical and haemodynamic outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Further large-scale randomised studies are warranted. FUNDING: V-Wave.

Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of transcatheter aortic valve replacement without balloon predilation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of direct transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), that is, TAVR without balloon predilation (BPD), by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis of available evidence. BACKGROUND: Avoiding BPD during TAVR was shown to be feasible in previous studies but the risks and benefits of this technique are unknown owing to the limited number of patients included in these studies. METHODS: We performed a systematic search for studies comparing direct TAVR vs TAVR performed with BPD. Crude risk ratios (RRs) or mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each endpoint were calculated using random effects models. RESULTS: Twenty studies including 3586 patients (1606 undergoing direct TAVR) were selected for the analysis. Mean device success with direct TAVR was 88% with <5% of bail-out techniques. There were no differences between direct and BPD-TAVR in short-term (in-hospital or 30-day) mortality (RR: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.78-1.43) or cerebrovascular events (RR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.58-1.46). Direct TAVR associated with reduced moderate or severe paravalvular leak post-TAVR (RR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.36-0.98) but not with a reduced risk of permanent pacemaker implantation (RR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.71-1.02). A slight increase in postdilation was observed in direct transfemoral-TAVR recipients (RR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.00-1.44). CONCLUSION: Direct TAVR is feasible and safe. However, given the unadjusted nature of our results, uncertainties remain regarding the independent effect of direct TAVR on outcomes post-TAVR. Randomized studies are warranted to determine the potential benefits of direct TAVR. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Embolic protection in patients undergoing transaortic transcatheter aortic valve replacement: initial experience with the TriGuard HDH embolic deflection device.

BACKGROUND: Stroke remains one of the most worrisome complications following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This pilot study evaluates the safety, feasibility, and exploratory efficacy of the TriGuard HDH embolic deflection device (Keystone Heart Ltd., Caesarea, Israel) in patients undergoing transaortic TAVR. METHODS: A total of 10 patients (median age: 81 years, STS score: 9.6 ± 5.6%) undergoing transaortic TAVR were included. All 30-day events were recorded and defined according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria. Cerebral diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging exams were planned preprocedure and within 10 days post-TAVR. The results of the magnetic resonances were analyzed in an independent core laboratory blinded to clinical data. Neurocognitive evaluation tests (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Cogstate, Digit Symbol Substitution Test, Word Fluency Test, and Trailmaking tests) were performed at baseline, and within 10 and 30 days post-TAVR. RESULTS: The TriGuard HDH device was successfully deployed in all patients without complications. There was one procedural major vascular complication unrelated to the study device, and no clinically apparent stroke events were observed at 30-day follow-up. Cerebral diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging exams were performed in six patients at 7.5 ± 1.9 days post-TAVR showing the presence of new ischemic lesions in five patients (83.3%), which were single lesions in 60% of these individuals. Paired neurocognitive evaluation tests demonstrated no significant changes in neurocognitive parameters over time. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows the safety and feasibility of using the TriGuard HDH embolic protection device in transaortic TAVR. Further studies are warranted to determine the efficacy of embolic protection in this population.

Clinical impact of complex percutaneous coronary intervention in the pre-TAVR workup.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: In patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the workup pre-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), the clinical impact of coronary revascularization complexity remains unknown. This study sought to examine the impact of PCI complexity on clinical outcomes after TAVR in patients undergoing PCI in the preprocedural workup. METHODS: This was a multicenter study including consecutive patients scheduled for TAVR with concomitant significant coronary artery disease. Complex PCI was defined as having at least 1 of the following features: 3 vessels treated, ≥ 3 stents implanted, ≥ 3 lesions treated, bifurcation with 2 stents implanted, total stent length >60mm, or chronic total occlusion. The rates of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, and coronary revascularization were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 1550 patients were included, of which 454 (29.3%) underwent complex PCI in the pre-TAVR workup. After a median follow-up period of 2 [1-3] years after TAVR, the incidence of MACE was 9.6 events per 100 patients-years. Complex PCI significantly increased the risk of cardiac death (HR, 1.44; 95%CI, 1.01-2.07), nonperiprocedural myocardial infarction (HR, 1.52; 95%CI, 1.04-2.21), and coronary revascularization (HR, 2.46; 95%CI, 1.44-4.20). In addition, PCI complexity was identified as an independent predictor of MACE after TAVR (HR, 1.31; 95%CI, 1.01-1.71; P=.042). CONCLUSIONS: In TAVR candidates with significant coronary artery disease requiring percutaneous treatment, complex revascularization was associated with a higher risk of MACE. The degree of procedural complexity should be considered a strong determinant of prognosis in the PCI-TAVR population.

Validation of the Valve Academic Research Consortium High Bleeding Risk Definition in Patients Undergoing TAVR.

Background: The Valve Academic Research Consortium for High Bleeding Risk (VARC-HBR) has recently introduced a consensus document that outlines risk factors to identify high bleeding risk (HBR) in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence and predictive value of the VARC-HBR definition in a contemporary, large-scale TAVR population. Methods: Multicenter study including 10,449 patients undergoing TAVR. Based on consensus, twenty-one clinical and laboratory criteria were identified and classified as major or minor. Patients were stratified as at low, moderate, high, and very high bleeding risk according to VARC-HBR definition. The primary endpoint was the rate of BARC type 3 or 5 bleeding at 1 year, defined as the composite of peri-procedural (within 30 days) or late (after 30 days) bleeding. Results: Patients with at least one VARC-HBR criterion (n=9,267, 88.7%) had a higher risk of BARC 3 or 5 bleeding, proportional to the severity of risk assessment (10.8%, 16.1%, and 24.6% for moderate, high, and very high-risk groups, respectively). However, a comparable rate of bleeding events was observed in the low-risk and moderate-risk groups. The area under ROC curve was 0.58. Patients with VARC-HBR criteria also exhibited a gradual increase in 1-year all-cause mortality, with an up to 2-fold increased mortality risk for high and very high-risk groups (HR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.04-1.70; and HR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.53-2.53, respectively). Conclusions: The VARC-HBR consensus offered a pragmatic approach to guide bleeding risk stratification in TAVR. The results of the present study would support the predictive validity of the newly definition and promote its application in clinical practice to minimize bleeding risk and improve patient outcomes.

Outcomes of Provisional Stenting With Versus Without Side Branch Intervention in Patients With Bifurcation Lesion-Related ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

To date, the best approach to coronary bifurcation lesion remains unsettled, and the parameters to guide side branch ballooning or stenting are not yet defined. This study aimed to compare the survival outcomes after provisional stenting with versus without side branch intervention. A cohort was conducted on 132 patients who underwent coronary angiography at Toulouse University Hospital for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with large culprit nonleft main coronary bifurcation lesion. Study participants were divided into 2 groups depending on the performance or not of a side branch intervention. We observed the living status at 1-year after hospital discharge. Side branch intervention by balloon inflation or final balloon kissing technique was performed in 34.1% of study participants. At 1-year follow-up, the incidence of all-cause mortality was 7.8 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.1 to 15), and although it seemed higher in the side branch intervention group (10 per 100 person-years [95% CI 3.8 to 26.7] vs 6.6 per 100 persons-years [95% CI 2.8 to 15.9]), the survival analyses showed no differences in survival outcomes (hazard ratio side branch intervention 1.55 [0.42 to 5.78], p = 0.513). In conclusion, in the setting of a coronary bifurcation causing ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, simple provisional stenting without side branch intervention showed a low mortality rate and no differences in the 1-year survival outcomes.

Comparison of Paravalvular Leak in SAPIEN 3 and EVOLUT PRO Valves in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Multicenter Registry.

Paravalvular leak (PVL), conduction disturbances, and vascular complications remain the most common complications after TAVR. To address these adverse outcomes, the third generation of transcatheter heart valves has been developed. The last generation prosthesis provides an outer pericardial wrap for enhanced sealing and PVL prevention. This study aimed to compare the incidence and severity of PVL and 1-year survival after TAVR using SAPIEN 3 with those using EVOLUT PRO. An observational retrospective analysis was conducted in 1,481 patients who underwent TAVR for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis in 6 different European centers. The primary end point was to assess the frequency and severity of PVL at 30 days after TAVR. The secondary end point was to compare 1-year survival using EVOLUT PRO with that using SAPIEN 3. SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve was implanted in 78.3% of study participants (n = 1,160) whereas EVOLUT PRO was implanted in 21.7% (n = 321). PVL is more commonly observed in patients treated with EVOLUT PRO at prehospital discharge (55.1% vs 37.3%) and at 1-month (51% vs 41.4%) and 1-year (51.3% vs 39.3%) follow-up. This difference mainly concerns low-grade (mild/trace) PVL. The frequency of high-degree (moderate/severe) PVL was almost similar in both groups throughout the study period (5.3% vs 5.8% before hospital discharge, 4% vs 3.1% at 1 month, and 3.2% vs 4.9% at 1 year). No significant difference in survival over 1 year has been observed (hazard ratio 0.73 [0.33 to 1.63], p = 0.442) (Graphical abstract). In conclusion, the detection rate of PVL after TAVR with third-generation heart valves remains high, and there are no major differences between the devices regarding the frequency of significant (moderate/severe) PVL and survival.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation using the SAPIEN 3 valve to treat aortic regurgitation: The French multicentre S3AR study.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation now has a major role in the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, evidence is scarce on its feasibility and safety to treat patients with pure aortic regurgitation. AIMS: We sought to evaluate the results of transcatheter aortic valve implantation using the balloon-expandable SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA) in patients with pure aortic regurgitation on native non-calcified valves. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective and prospective French multicentre observational study. We included all patients with symptomatic severe pure aortic regurgitation on native non-calcified valves, contraindicated to or at high risk for surgical valve replacement, who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation using the SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve. RESULTS: A total of 37 patients (male sex, 73%) with a median age of 81years (interquartile range 69-85years) were screened using transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography and were included at eight French centres. At baseline, 83.8% of patients (n=31) had dyspnoea New York Heart Association class≥III. The device success rate was 94.6% (n=35). At 30days, the all-cause mortality rate was 8.1% (n=3) and valve migration occurred in 10.8% of cases (n=4). Dyspnoea New York Heart Association class≤II was seen in 86.5% of patients (n=32), and all survivors had aortic regurgitation grade≤1. At 1-year follow-up, all-cause mortality was 16.2% (n=6), 89.7% (n=26/29) of survivors were in New York Heart Association class≤II and all had aortic regurgitation grade≤2. CONCLUSION: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation using the SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve seems promising to treat selected high-risk patients with pure aortic regurgitation on non-calcified native valves, contraindicated to surgical aortic valve replacement.