Effectiveness of Alcohol Septal Ablation Versus Transaortic Extended Myectomy in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy with Midventricular Obstruction.

OBJECTIVES: Investigate the effectiveness of alcohol septal ablation (ASA) and transaortic extended myectomy (TEM) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with midventricular obstruction (MVO). BACKGROUND: MVO is less common than subaortic obstruction. Data on the effectiveness of ASA and TEM in MVO are lacking. METHODS: The clinical profiles of 22 patients undergoing ASA and 37 patients undergoing TEM were compared. No patient had apical aneurysm, abnormal chordae, mitral valve replacement or repair. RESULTS: Baseline midventricular pressure gradient and symptoms were comparable between the ASA and TEM groups. During follow-up, both groups demonstrated substantial reduction in pressure gradient (the ASA group: 79.7 ± 21.2 mm Hg to 43.7 ± 28.9 mm Hg, P < 0.001; the TEM group: 69.0 ± 23.9 mm Hg to 15.0 ± 16.9 mm Hg, P < 0.001). The reduction in pressure gradient was greater (78.9 ± 18.6% vs. 46.4 ± 33.4%, P < 0.001) and the residual pressure gradient was lower after TEM versus ASA (P < 0.001). Patients with New York Heart Association class III/IV dyspnea decreased from 59.1 to 18.2% (P = 0.022) in the ASA group and from 56.8 to 5.6% (P < 0.001) in the TEM group. Patients with Canadian Cardiovascular Society class III/IV angina decreased from 40.9 to 9.1% (P = 0.016) in the ASA group and from 32.4 to 0% (P < 0.001) in the TEM group. CONCLUSIONS: While ASA and TEM both improve gradients and symptoms, TEM may provide a more reliable reduction in gradients compared to ASA.

The role of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in the treatment of atrial fibrillation recurrence after a radiofrequency modified maze procedure.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to elucidate the potential clinical and molecular issues in recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) following a radiofrequency modified maze procedure in patients with rheumatic valvular disease and persistent AF. METHODS AND RESULTS: Eighty patients with rheumatic valvular disease and persistent AF (lasting more than 6 months) who had undergone a radiofrequency modified maze procedure and mitral valve replacement were enrolled into this single-center pilot study and were followed up for another 6 months. Their clinical characteristics were analyzed and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 including its specific inhibitor and collagen volume fraction (CVF) was also assessed. During the 6-month follow-up, 24 subjects had recurrent AF. Among them, the left atrial diameter was larger compared to that achieved in sinus rhythm (SR). The mRNA and protein expression of MMP-2 was significantly increased in recurrent AF patients, while its specific inhibitor did not show a significant difference (p > 0.05). The CVF of type I collagen increased significantly in the recurrent AF patients compared to SR patients (18.16 ± 3.22 vs. 11.66 ± 3.38, p < 0.001), whereas the CVF of type III collagen showed no significant difference (8.33 ± 3.44 vs. 9.55 ± 3.67, p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the overexpression of MMP-2 is associated with CVF-I in the left atrial appendage which potentially leads to the recurrence of AF following a radiofrequency modified maze procedure in patients with rheumatic valve disease.

[Surgical treatment for hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: a report of 118 cases].

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical outcomes of transaortic extended septal myectomy on early and midterm survival of patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). METHODS: From October 2009 to April 2012, 118 consecutive patients underwent extended Morrow's procedure for HOCM. There were 69 males and 49 females with an average age of (46 ± 13) years. Their clinical data were analyzed retrospectively. Preoperative transthoracic, intraoperative transoesophageal and postoperative transthoracic echocardiography was performed to assess septal thickness, left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient, mitral valve function and systolic anterior motion (SAM) of anterior mitral valve leaflet, etc. Concomitant surgical procedures were performed if other cardiac diseases required surgical interventions. Follow-up study was carried out during subsequent clinic visits at outpatient department and through telephone interviews with patients and their relatives. RESULTS: The septal thickness was (25 ± 7) mm. SAM was detected in all. The in-hospital mortality was 0.8% (1/118) since one patient died of multiple organs failure one week later. Postoperative echocardiography demonstrated marked reduction in LVOT gradient (92 ± 22 vs 13 ± 10 mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa), P = 0.000), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (2.9 ± 0.6 vs 1.2 ± 0.4, P = 0.000) and significant improvement in mitral regurgitation. Concomitant surgical procedures were performed in 45 cases (38.1%, all for preexisting conditions). Complications included complete atrioventricular block (n = 3), first degree atrioventricular block (n = 6), complete left bundle branch block (n = 51), intraventricular conduction delay or left anterior division block (n = 26), transient renal dysfunction (n = 2) and intra-aortic-balloon-pumping (n = 2). No other severe complication was observed. During a follow-up period of 1 - 27 (7 ± 6) months, there was no readmission or death. All patients reported significant increase in physical ability and obvious decrease in limiting symptoms. At the latest follow-up, the NYHA functional class maintained grade I-II in all. And mitral regurgitation remained absent or mild. CONCLUSION: Surgical procedure for HOCM patients is both safe and efficacious. It provides an excellent relief of LVOT obstruction.

[Clinical features and management of complete heart block after transaortic extended septal myectomy in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the clinical features, precaution and management of complete heart block (CHB) after transaortic extended septal myectomy operation (extended Morrow procedure) in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). METHODS: From October 1996 to December 2011, 10[6 men; mean age (45.4 ± 15.8) years, range 13-60 years] out of 160 consecutive HOCM patients underwent extended Morrow procedure developed CHB postoperatively. Their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline transthoracic echocardiography showed that the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradients was from 68 to 149 (105.1 ± 25.9) mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa), ECG showed right bundle branch block in 5 patients and atrial fibrillation, atrial premature beats or ST-T segment changes in other 5 patients. Besides extended Morrow procedure, concomitant surgical procedures included mitral valve replacement (MVR) in 2 (2/10) and MVR plus coronary artery bypass grafting in another 2 (2/10) patients. Follow-up data were obtained by subsequent clinic visits in outpatient department and telephone interviews. RESULTS: The in-hospital mortality was 20% (these two patients died of low cardiac output syndrome and multiple organs failure). Four patients underwent MVR simultaneously survived the operation. Postoperative echocardiography demonstrated a reduced LVOT gradient[(13.6 ± 9.7) mm Hg, P < 0.001]. Permanent pacemakers were implanted in all 8 survived patients at 6 days to 7 months after operation. No other severe complications were observed. During follow-up [from 4 to 72 (19.4 ± 22.1) months], there was no death, 1 patient readmitted to our center at 71 months post operation to change the pacemaker because of low voltage of previously implanted pacemaker. Physical capacity and quality of life improved significantly post operation in these 8 patients. The NYHA functional class remained at I-II post operation and during follow up. CONCLUSIONS: CHB is a severe complication after extended Morrow procedure for patients with HOCM and timely permanent pacemaker implantation is mandatory for patients with post procedure CHB.

[Risk factors for hypertension and impact of postoperative hypertension on medium survival after heart transplantation].

OBJECTIVE: To access the prevalence and risk factors for hypertension after heart transplantation (HT), and the impact of post-transplant hypertension on medium-term survival among HT patients. METHODS: Data from 265 consecutive patients underwent HT between June 2004 and May 2012 in Fuwai hospital and survived for at least 6 months were retrospectively analyzed. Hypertension was defined as systolic pressure ≥ 140 mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa) and/or diastolic pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg or current treatment with antihypertensive drugs. Patients were divided into post-HT hypertension group and non-hypertension group. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine preoperative and postoperative risk factors for hypertension after HT. Kaplan-Meier method and log rank test were used for survival analysis. RESULTS: Hypertension was present in 17.4% (46/265) patients before HT and in 57.4% (152/265) patients post HT. The median follow-up time was 37 months (20 - 57 months). Logistic regression analysis showed that male gender (OR: 2.27, 95%CI: 1.16 - 4.42, P < 0.05), history of pre-HT hypertension (OR: 2.22, 95%CI: 1.05 - 4.71, P < 0.05), and cyclosporine A based immunosuppressive therapy (OR: 2.54, 95%CI: 1.51 - 4.29, P < 0.01) were independent risk factors for the development of post-HT hypertension. At the end of 1, 3, 5 years, the survival rate of heart transplant patients by Kaplan-Meier method estimation were 100%, 97.2%, 86.7% in post-HT hypertension group; 98.1%, 93.8%, 93.8% in non-hypertension group. Log rank test displayed that there was no significant difference between the two survival curves (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Hypertension is a frequent comorbidity after HT. Male gender, pre-HT hypertension together with cyclosporine A based immunosuppressive therapy are independent predictors for the development of post-HT hypertension. By adjusting the controllable risk factors and active control of blood pressure, the medium-term survival is similar between patients with or without postoperative hypertension in this cohort.

Large right coronary artery to left ventricular fistula.

Right coronary to left ventricular fistulas are rare. We report a patient who presented with unstable angina and was found to have a large right coronary to left ventricular fistula.

[Sirolimus use in heart transplantation recipients with chronic renal dysfunction].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of sirolimus-based immunosuppression administered on heart transplant recipients with chronic renal dysfunction. METHODS: From June 2004 to December 2008, standard calcineurin inhibitors (CNI)-based immunosuppressive regimen was changed to reduced-dose CNI plus sirolimus due to CNI-related chronic renal dysfunction in 20 out of 138 cardiac transplant recipients at Fuwai Hospital. The standard immunosuppressive regimen included steroid, CNI (cyclosporine or tacrolimus), and mycophenolate mofetil or azathioprine. Sirolimus was started at 0.75 - 1.50 mg/d with titration to achieve levels of 5 - 15 µg/L, and CNI dose was reduced gradually to 1/2-2/3 of the baseline level. Patients were followed for changes in renal function, lipid level and clinical side effects related to immunosuppressive therapy. Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) was performed routinely at 3 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months after transplantation. EMB was also performed at 3 months after regimen change within 1 year post-transplantation or when rejections were suspected in patients beyond 1 year post-transplantation. Echocardiography was performed for monitoring purpose. RESULTS: The mean follow-up after regimen change was (7.9 ± 6.3) months. Final sirolimus dose was (0.89 ± 0.22) mg/d and blood drug level was (7.6 ± 3.8)µg/L. Cyclosporine dose was reduced from (191.7 ± 60.0) mg/d to (123.6 ± 34.8) mg/d, with blood drug concentration reduced from (175.5 ± 58.0) µg/L to (111.9 ± 56.0) µg/L in 18 patients (P < 0.01). Tacrolimus average dose was reduced from 4.25 mg/d to 3.00 mg/d, with blood drug concentration reduced from 13.5 µg/L to 10.5 µg/L in 2 patients. Serum creatinine level fell from (160.4 ± 25.5) µmol/L to (134.4 ± 26.8) µmol/L (P < 0.01) and urea nitrogen fell from (13.8 ± 4.7) µmol/L to (10.4 ± 3.0) µmol/L (P < 0.01) at one month after regimen change. Twenty two EMBs were performed in 11 patients within 1 year post-transplant, there were 4 episodes of acute rejected (ISHLT grade 2). Twenty patients are all alive and cardiac function was normal. The most common side effect was hyperlipidemia, and triglycerides, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein levels were significantly increased at 1 month post regimen change (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Leukocyte, hemoglobin and platelet as well as liver function remained unchanged at 1 month post regimen change (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results show that change from CNI-based immunosuppressive regimen to reduced-dose CNI plus sirolimus is an effective and safe approach for the management of patients with CNI-related chronic renal dysfunction, leading to an improvement in renal function without compromise in anti-rejection efficacy and with tolerable side effects.

Repair of a ventricular septal defect in a patient with left lung agenesis.

Congenital heart disease combined with lung agenesis is extremely rare. We report a case of a 5-year-old female with a ventricular septal defect (VSD) and left lung agenesis with severe pulmonary hypertension who underwent successful closure of the VSD.

Resection of Cardiac Pheochromocytoma With Cardiopulmonary Bypass.

We report a case of a 21-year-old man with a cardiac pheochromocytoma involving the right atrium and extending to the right ventricular inflow tract, which was diagnosed by somatostatin receptor scintigraphy. For the preoperative evaluation, we chose multiple methods of imaging to accurately describe the anatomic extent and location of the tumor and its surrounding tissues, which showed that no major coronary artery ran through the tumor. The tumor was resected with disease-free margins effectively and safely with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and with cardiac arrest. The patient remained asymptomatic at the 3-month follow-up.

[Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adult patients with cardiac arrest].

OBJECTIVE: To review the experience of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E-CPR) for cardiac arrest in adults. METHODS: From July 2005 to July 2009, extracorporeal life-support (ECLS) was performed for 10-15 minutes failed in CPR in 11 patients (male 7, female 4, age 24-71 years) with cardiac arrest. In 7 patients after cardiac operation, regular cardiopulmonary bypass was urgently established through re-opening of sternotomy incision, followed by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for continuous support. In other 4 patients, ECMO implantation was directly performed through the femoral vessels during the CPR. RESULTS: With E-CPR support, although the average CPR duration prolonged to (51+/-14) minutes (30-90 minutes), successful resuscitation was achieved in 10 patients with restoration of spontaneous heart beat. Median support duration of ECMO was 126 hours, ranged from 2 to 223 hours. Six patients could be successfully weaned from ECMO. However, the final discharge rate was 36.4% (4/11). Additional intra-aortic balloon pump was used in 2 patients, with 1 patient survived. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) was necessary in 3 patients because of acute renal failure. CONCLUSION: The use of E-CPR can rescue some adult patients who fail to survive with conventional in-hospital CPR. Further studies are warranted to evaluate in order to better define patients who may benefit from E-CPR.

[Estimated glomerular filtration rate as a risk factor for long-term survival in Chinese renal insufficiency patients after isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the eGFR as a risk factor for long-term (4-year) outcome in Chinese renal insufficiency patients after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) at our institution. METHODS: From January 1999 to September 2003, 3371 consecutive patients who underwent isolated CABG were retrospectively reviewed. Of these patients, 549 (16.29%) patients were female, 1979 (58.71%) patients with hypertension, 866 (25.69%) patients with diabetes, 1130 (33.52%) patients with hyperlipidemia, 1011 (29.99%) patients with left main stenosis > 50%, and 1150 (34.11%) patients undergoing off-pump procedures. The mean age was (60 +/- 9) years old. Estimated GFR was calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault formula. The main outcomes were in-hospital mortality, in-hospital morbidity and long-term mortality. COX analysis was used in this study. RESULTS: There were 649 patients with glomerular filtration rate estimates < 60 ml/(min.1.73 m(2)) and 2722 patients with glomerular filtration rate estimates > 60 ml/(min.1.73 m(2)). The in-hospital mortality and follow-up mortality was higher in the estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/(min.1.73 m(2)) group (2.77% vs. 0.77%, P < 0.01), (6.81% vs. 2.63%, P < 0.01). The COX analysis result confirmed eGFR < 60 ml/(min.1.73 m(2)), derived using the Cockcroft-Gault formula (HR: 1.948, 95%CI: 1.357 to 2.797, P < 0.01) was an independent risk factor for long-term mortality in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/(min.1.73 m(2)) derived using the Cockcroft-Gault formula is an independent risk factor for long-term mortality in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.

[Value of estimated glomerular filtration rate and serum creatinine for predicting long-term survival in Chinese patients after isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery].

OBJECTIVE: To compare the predictive value of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault formula or the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) equation and serum creatinine for in-hospital and long-term mortality post coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). METHODS: Clinical data of 5559 consecutive patients undergoing isolated CABG were retrospectively analyzed. The main outcomes were in-hospital mortality and long-term mortality. Estimated GFR was calculated by the Cockcroft-Gault formula and MDRD equation respectively. Receiver-operating characteristic curves and Cox's analysis were used for the comparison. RESULTS: Follow-up was complete in 5485 patients (97.6%). Analysis of receiver-operating characteristic curves showed that GFR estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault formula had a maximal accuracy for predicting in-hospital mortality (area under the curve: 0.755, P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic analysis and the Cox's analysis results indicated estimated GFR < 60 mlxmin(-1)x1.73 m(-2) base on the Cockcroft-Gault formula was an independent risk factor for in-hospital and long-term mortality (hazard ratio 4.51 for in-hospital mortality, P < 0.01; hazard ratio 1.54 for long-term mortality, P < 0.01), both Cockcroft-Gault formula and MDRD equation were superior to serum creatinine for predicting in-hospital and long-term mortality post CABG. CONCLUSION: GFR estimated by the Cockcroft-Gault formula was superior to GFR estimated by the MDRD equation for predicting in-hospital mortality, and estimated GFR was superior to serum creatinine for predicting in-hospital and long-term mortality.

[Clinical experience of surgical treatment on hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the surgical outcome of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). METHODS: From October 1996 to December 2007, 54 HOCM patients underwent surgical treatment. There were 37 males and 17 females ranging from 6 to 68 years old (36 +/- 16) with body weight 27-83 (60 +/- 14) kg. Operation was performed under general anesthesia and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with the moderate systemic temperature and low volume blood flow. The concomitant operations included coronary artery bypass grafting in 5 cases, mitral valve plasty in 5 cases, mitral valve replacement in 9 cases, tricuspid valve plasty in 2 cases, aortic valve replacement in 4 cases and closure of patent ductus arteriosus in 2 cases. Preoperative and postoperative left ventricular (LV), left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), left atrium (LA), mitral valve function and value of LVEF were evaluated by transesophageal echocardiograph examination. RESULTS: The time of CPB and aortic occlusion were 40 to 290 minutes (107 +/- 52) and 27 to 195 min (70 +/- 36 min) respectively. The endotracheal intubation durations were 5 to 21 hours (14 +/- 15) and ICU duration 11 to 183 hours (45 +/- 34). Comparing with the pre-operative echocardiographic parameters, the size of left atrium (42 +/- 8 vs 35 +/- 7), pressure gradients through LVOT (106 +/- 44 mm Hg vs 24 +/- 19 mm Hg), the thickness of septum (27 +/- 6 mm vs 19 +/- 5 mm) and the value of EF (70 +/- 10 vs 61 +/- 9) obviously decreased postoperatively (P < 0.05). The surviving patients had either no mitral valve regurgitation or only mild mitral valve regurgitation. Four (7.4%) patients died during the perioperative period. The cause of death included severe low cardiac output, heart failure, severe ventricular arrhythmias and severe acute renal failure. There were 4 patients with a complete AV block postoperatively and 3 were implanted permanent pacemakers. The left bundle branch block or left anterior hemiblock were found in 26 cases, intraventricular conduction defect in 6 cases and type I AV block in 4 cases. All surviving patients were in NYHA functional class I/II during the follow-up of 1 month to 10 years. CONCLUSION: Surgical outcome for HOCM patients is satisfactory. Most HOCM patients achieve such a satisfactory relief of LV outflow tract obstruction as to lead a better life.

[Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for treatment of cardiorespiratory function failure in adult patients].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the experience on venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adult patients with cardiac failure. METHODS: From February 2005 to June 2008, 45 patients (male 34, female 11) undergoing cardiogenic shock required temporary ECMO support. Average age was (49.0 +/- 14.1) years. Average body weight was (67.0 +/- 12.8) kg. Coronary heart disease occupied in 21 cases, valve disease occupied in 8 cases, and cardiomyopathy occupied in 7 cases. All the patients could be divided into 3 groups: post-cardiotomy (group 1, n = 31), post-transplantation (group 2, n = 5), decompensate of chronic heart failure (group 3, n = 9). Fourteen patients need cardiac resuscitation before ECMO support. ECMO implantation was performed through the femoral vessels or axillary artery or through the right atrium and ascending aorta. RESULTS: Average support duration of ECMO was (126.7 +/- 104.3) h. Twenty-seven patients could be successfully weaned from support (60.0%), additionally, 5 were bridged to heart transplantation. The in-hospital mortality was 42.2% (19/45). Twenty-six patients (57.8%) could be successfully discharged. The discharge rate was 58.1% in group 1, 4/5 in group 2 and was 4/9 in group 3. Twelve patients were re-operated for hemostasis. Three patients need femoral arterial thrombectomy because of ischemia of lower extremity. Additional intra-aortic balloon pumps were used in 11 patients, with 6 patients successfully discharged. The mortality rate for patients with acute renal failure treated by continuous renal replacement therapy under ECMO support was obviously high (7/9). The dominant mode of death was multisystem organ failure (9/19). CONCLUSION: Early indication, control of complications, and paying attention to the treatment after ECMO support could improve our results with increasing experience.

[Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the peri-operative period of heart transplantation].

OBJECTIVE: To summarize and analyze clinical outcomes and experience about using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in supporting heart transplant patients in the peri-operative period of in Fuwai Hospital retrospectively. METHODS: We performed 131 orthotopic heart transplantations from June 2004 to December 2008. Fourteen cases used veno-artery ECMO (Medtronic Ltd) for mechanical circulatory support in the peri-operative period of heart transplantation. Active clotting time(ACT) was maintained between 160 - 200 seconds, mean blood flow was 1.8 - 3.3 L/min during ECMO assistant period. RESULTS: Twelve survivals discharged with NYHAI, two patients died of multiple orgen failure with severe infection and complication of central nervous system. The ECMO time was 75 - 824 h and mean time 149 h. 12 survivals with ECMO assistance decreases the dose of vasoactive drugs, after bedside UCG evaluating heart function recovery with stable circulation, ECMO could be weaned off uneventfully after 100 h. Five patients with seven times bleeding complication and one patient with catheter-associated arterial thrombosis of distal limb, all ECMO patients with low-albuminemia and hyperbilirubinemia at some degree, eleven patients with increasing blood creatine and five patients were treated with continous renal replacement therapy, one patient with pertinacious hyperbilirubinemia was treated with plasma exchange and molecular absorbent recirculating system. Seven patients were extension incision healing and six patients were tracheotomy. CONCLUSIONS: ECMO can bridge patients with end-stage heart failure to heart transplant, and extend the use of marginal donors, grasp the ECMO indication and timing of application, avoiding irreversible dysfunction of the vital organs and preventing complication during ECMO, ECMO may decrease mortality of severe patients in the peri-operative period of heart transplantation.

The Effects of CYP3A5 Genetic Polymorphisms on Serum Tacrolimus Dose-Adjusted Concentrations and Long-Term Prognosis in Chinese Heart Transplantation Recipients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Effective management of immunosuppressants is extemely important to improve prognosis of heart transplant recipients. We aim to investigate the effects of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A5 (rs776746) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on serum tacrolimus concentrations/doses (C/Ds, ng/mL per mg/kg) and long-term prognosis in Chinese heart transplant recipients. METHODS: We detected the CYP3A5 SNPs of 203 consecutive Chinese heart transplant recipients between August 2005 and July 2012, and 55 of them who received tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive therapy were enrolled in this study. The tacrolimus C/Ds at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after transplantation were routinely calculated. X-ray-guided endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) were performed at 1, 3 and 6 months after heart transplantion to evaluate acute rejection degrees. All participants were then followed up annually until May 2018. The designed primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. RESULTS: In 55 heart transplant recipients (43 males and 12 females), CYP3A5 non-expressors (CYP3A5*3/*3, n = 40) had significantly higher tacrolimus C/Ds than expressors (CYP3A5*1/*3, n = 15) at all time points (P < 0.001). Chi-squared test showed no significant differences in EMB-proven acute rejections between the two groups within 6 months after heart transplantion. The median follow-up period was 94.7 months, and eight patients died. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed CYP3A5 expressors tend to have higher mortality than non-expressors (20% vs 12.5%, log-rank: P = 0.314). CONCLUSIONS: CYP3A5 SNPs affect tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in Chinese heart transplant recipients, and non-expressors have higher tacrolimus C/Ds. In addition, expressors tend to have a worse long-term prognosis than non-expressors.

[Hemodynamic performance of newly developed composite stentless porcine aortic valve: in vitro testing and in vivo experiment with sheep].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of a newly developed composite stentless porcine aortic valve constructed from noncoronary leaflets of three porcine aortic valves. METHODS: Fresh porcine hearts with ascending aorta were obtained from a slaughterhouse. The porcine aortic roots with ascending aorta and anterior leaflet of mitral valve and partial ventricular septum were dissected out and were pressurized to maintain their natural anatomical shapes with the leaflets floating freely at zero-pressure. Three noncoronary leaflets fixed in 0.6% glutaraldehyde were carefully matched for size and symmetry to construct a novel composite stentless porcine aortic valve. The lower margin and outside of the valve was covered with a piece of bovine pericardium. The novel stentless valves were tested in vitro pulsatile flow to detect the effective orifice area (EOA) and mean pressure difference (DeltaP) of the valve compared with the stented bovine pericardial bioprostheses of the same size. Sixteen male juvenile sheep underwent implantation of the novel valves in the supra-annular position in under cardio-pulmonary bypass. The intraoperative and postoperative echocardiography and pathological specimen were given to evaluate the hemodynamic performance and observed in the respects of a long-term survival, function of valve and pathological specimen. RESULTS: Since novel valves had the unfavorable muscle-based right coronary leaflet characteristic of porcine valve removed it had larger EOA. Pulsatile flow testing indicated that the EOA of the 3 novel valves was (3.47 +/- 0.15), (3.69 +/- 0.11), and (3.92 +/- 0.18) cm2 respectively, all significantly greater than those of the stented bovine pericardial bioprosthesis [(2.00 +/- 0.16), (2.21 +/- 0.26), and (2.37 +/- 0.42) cm2 respectively] at each integral simulated cardiac output between 3 - 6 L/min (all P < 0.05), while the DeltaP levels of the novel valves were (2.35 +/- 0.41), (3.10 +/- 0.20), and (3.56 +/- 0.16) mm Hg respectively, all significantly lower than those of the stented bovine pericardial bioprosthesis [(4.98 +/- 0.46), (6.82 +/- 1.27), and (8.40 +/- 1.83) mm Hg respectively, all P < 0.05]. Twelve of the sixteen sheep survived after operation. Five of them had lived for more than 90 days, 3 more than 180 days, and 2 more than 360 days. The intra-operative echocardiographic analyses showed low DeltaP [(3.90 +/- 0.78) mm Hg] and no regurgitation in all sheep. After 15 to 360 days, all valves performed excellently. The sheep were postoperatively sacrificed in 5 d, 15 d, 45 d, 90 d, 180 d, or 300 d respectively. Necropsy revealed the valves had a low to mild level of calcification, without periprosthetic leakage and overgrowth of fibrous tissue. CONCLUSION: The newly developed composite stentless porcine aortic valves show excellent hemodynamic performance with lower transvalvular pressure gradient and are relatively easy to implant.

[Mechanical circulation support as emergency bridging for heart transplantation].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the experience of patients in acute cardiogenic shock required insertion of mechanical circulation support devices (MCS) before undergoing standard pretransplant evaluations. METHODS: From February 2005 to August 2007, 10 patients including 7 male and 3 female required emergency bridging placement of MCS. Average age was (40 +/- 16.2) years old. Mean body weight was (70.8 +/- 18.1) kg. There were 5 patients of dilated cardiomyopathy, 2 patients of arrhythmic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, 2 patients of ischemic cardiomyopathy and 1 patient of end-stage valvular heart disease. All patients were accompanied with acute decompensation of congestive heart failure. Before implantation of MCS, all patients received treatment of three or more inotropic drugs at maximal dosages, 6 patients suffered from ventricular tachycardia, 4 patients required cardio-pulmonary resuscitation treatment and 3 patients suffered from definite function defect of liver and kidney. MCS included ECMO for 8 patients, BVS5000 and MEDOS for 1 patient respectively. RESULTS: The duration of MCS supporting was 3 to 44 d with a mean of (11.5 +/- 13.9) d. Four patients were successfully supported for getting heart transplantation, 1 patient received kidney transplantation simultaneously. Two patients recovered from acute heart failure, discharged and remained on regular heart transplantation list. One patient died from cerebral embolism after 44 days' support and 1 died from multiple organ failure after 3 days' support. Because of severe infection, MCS treatment of 2 patients was terminated ahead of schedule by their family and the patients were lost finally. CONCLUSIONS: The use of MCS devices for acute catastrophic situation appears warranted despite the abbreviated transplant evaluations. It is important for improving the outcomes with beginning MCS support before multiple organ system failure occurs, and accurately identifying individuals who can benefit from MCS.

Surgical outcome and clinical follow-up in patients with symptomatic myocardial bridging.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial bridging with systolic compression of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) may be associated with myocardial ischaemia. The clinical outcome in patients with surgical treatment for symptomatic myocardial bridging remains undetermined. This study assessed the middle- and long-term results of surgical treatment for symptomatic myocardial bridging. METHODS: From 1997 to 2006, 37,463 patients received selective coronary angiography in the Fuwai Cardiovascular Hospital, Beijing, China. Of these, 484 patients had angiographic diagnosis of myocardial bridging. Of the 484 patients, 35 underwent surgery for treatment of myocardial bridging with significant systolic arterial compression. Among the surgical treatment patients, 24 presented with other cardiac disorders, and the remaining 11 symptomatic patients with isolated myocardial bridging were included in the follow-up study. RESULTS: The angiographic prevalence of myocardial bridging was 1.3% in this study. The coronary angiographies of the 11 patients revealed myocardial bridging in the middle segment of LAD causing systolic compression > or = 75% (ranging from 75% to 90%). The mean age of patients was 48.4 years. Surgical myotomy was performed in 3 patients and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in 8 patients. Eight patients were operated on with an off-pump approach and 3 with a cardiopulmonary bypass technique after median sternotomy. Conversion to on-pump CABG surgery was necessary in 1 patient because of perforation of the right ventricle. The left internal mammary artery was used in all patients with CABG. The acute clinical success rate was 100% with respect to the absence of myocardial infarction, death or other major in-hospital complications. All of the patients were followed up clinically. The median follow-up was 35.3 months (range: 6 to 120 months). Nine patients were free from symptoms and one of them continued taking beta blockers. The remaining 2 patients with myotomy had atypical chest pain. One received coronary angiography again and no stenosis was found two years after operation; while exercise testing was performed in the other patient and revealed no evidence of myocardial ischaemia. None of the patients sustained a myocardial infarction or other major adverse cardiac events (death or vessel revascularization) during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Myocardial bridging is a relatively common angiographic finding. Surgical myotomy or CABG should be limited to patients who are refractory to oral medication. Surgical relief of myocardial ischaemia due to systolic compression of intramyocardial coronary arteries can be accomplished with low operative risk and excellent middle- and long-term results.

[Early and middle outcomes of total arterial revascularization using exclusively internal mammary artery and radial artery].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the early and mid-results of the use of the radial artery alongside the internal mammary artery for complete arterial revascularization in coronary bypass surgery. METHODS: From January 1999 to January 2005, 123 patients with coronary artery disease with lesions in more than one branch (target vessel), 114 males and 9 females, aged 51.9 +/- 9.4 (32 approximately 74) underwent coronary artery surgery after the complete arterial revascularization pattern. Before the operation the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) value ranged 30% approximately 78%, and 24 patients (21.1%) had poor ejection fraction (with the EF < 50%). Sixty-four patients (52%) had previous myocardial infarction. Four patients with unstable angina received urgent operation. 36 patients (29.3%) had disease of the left main trunk. 74% of the patients underwent off-pump bypass technique. The mean number of distal anastomoses was 2.6 +/- 0.4 per patient. 20 patients were followed up for 62 +/- 12.8 months (36 approximately 80 months). RESULTS: The early mortality was 0.8%. Postoperative complications included arterial fibrillation in seven patients (5.7%). One patient underwent IABP insertion because of low cardiac output, 3 patients were re-admitted because of heart failure, angina and arrhythmias. Three patients died of cardiac events. One patient underwent redo-CABG due to recurrent myocardial infarction and one patient underwent percutaneous coronary intervention because of stenosis of the arterial graft. CONCLUSIONS: Complete arterial revascularization using radial and mammary arteries provides excellent early results, showing a low mid-term complication rate and surgical morbidity.