The value of serial echocardiography in risk assessment of patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Progression from paroxysmal to persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We examined the association of left atrial (LA) remodeling by serial echocardiography, and AF progression over an extended follow-up period. Two-hundred ninety patients (mean age 61  ±  11 years, 73% male) who underwent transthoracic echocardiography performed at first presentation for non-valvular paroxysmal AF (PAF) and repeat echocardiogram 1-year later, were followed for progression to persistent AF. LA and left ventricular (LV) dimensions, volumes, LA reservoir, conduit and booster pump strains, LV global longitudinal systolic strain (GLS) assessed by 2D speckle tracking, and PA-TDI (time delay between electrical and mechanical LA activation- reflecting the extent of LA fibrosis) were compared on serial echocardiography. Sixty-nine (24%) patients developed persistent AF over a mean follow-up period of 6.3 years. At baseline, patients with subsequent persistent AF had larger LA dimensions (46 mm vs. 42 mm, p < 0.001), indexed LA volumes (41 ml/m2 vs. 34 ml/m2, p < 0.001), lower LA reservoir and conduit strain (17.6% vs. 27.6%, p < 0.001; 10.5% vs. 16.3%, p < 0.001; respectively) and longer PA-TDI (155 ms vs. 132 ms, p < 0.001) compared to the PAF group. Patients with subsequent persistent AF showed over time significant enlargement in LA volumes (from 37.7 ml/m2 to 42.4 ml/m2, p < 0.001), lengthening of PA-TDI (from 142.2 ms to 162.2 ms, p = 0.002), and decline in LA reservoir function (from 21.9% to 18.1%, p = 0.024) after adjusting for age, gender, diabetes and LV GLS. There were no changes in LA diameter, LA conduit or booster pump function. Conversely, the PAF group showed no decline in LA function. Patients who developed persistent AF had larger LA size and impaired LA function and atrial conduction times at baseline, compared to patients who remained PAF. Over the 1-year time course of serial echocardiographic evaluation, there was progression of LA remodeling in patients who subsequently developed persistent AF, but not in patients who remained in PAF.

Tolerability and beneficial effects of sacubitril/valsartan on systemic right ventricular failure.

OBJECTIVE: Patients with a systemic right ventricle (sRV) in the context of transposition of the great arteries (TGA) after atrial switch or congenitally corrected TGA (ccTGA) are prone to sRV dysfunction. Pharmacological options for sRV failure remain poorly defined. This study aims to investigate the tolerability and effects of sacubitril/valsartan on sRV failure in adult patients with sRV. METHODS: In this two-centre, prospective cohort study, all consecutive adult patients with symptomatic heart failure and at least moderately reduced sRV systolic function were initiated on sacubitril/valsartan and underwent structured follow-up. RESULTS: Data of 40 patients were included (40% female, 30% ccTGA, median age 48 (44-53) years). Five patients discontinued therapy during titration. Median follow-up was 24 (12-36) months. The maximal dose was tolerated by 49% of patients. No episodes of hyperkalaemia or renal function decline occurred. Six-minute walking distance increased significantly after 6 months of treatment (569±16 to 597±16 m, p=0.016). Serum N-terminal-prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels decreased significantly after 3 months (567 (374-1134) to 404 (226-633) ng/L, p<0.001). Small, yet consistent echocardiographic improvements in sRV function were observed after 6 months (sRV global longitudinal strain: -11.1±0.5% to -12.6±0.7%, p<0.001, and fractional area change: 20% (16%-24%) to 26% (19%-30%), p<0.001). The linear mixed-effects model illustrated that after first follow-up moment, no time effect was present for the parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with sacubitril/valsartan was associated with a low rate of adverse effects in this adult sRV cohort. Persisting improvement in 6-minute walking test distance, NT-proBNP levels and echocardiographic parameters of sRV function was observed in an on-treatment analysis and showed no differential response based on sex or anatomy.

Contemporary Management Strategies of Baffle Leaks in Adults with a Failing Systemic Right Ventricle Late after Atrial Switch: A Case Series and Literature Overview.

Baffle leaks are a frequently encountered and often overlooked complication after the atrial switch procedure for transposition of the great arteries. Baffle leaks are present in up to 50% of non-selected patients, and while they initially may not cause clear symptoms, they can complicate the hemodynamic course and influence the prognosis in this complex patient group. A shunt from the pulmonary venous atrium (PVA) to the systemic venous atrium (SVA) can lead to pulmonary overflow and subpulmonary left ventricular (LV) volume overload, while a shunt from the SVA to the PVA can result in (exercise-associated) cyanosis and paradoxical embolism. We report three cases of baffle leaks in patients with systemic right ventricular (sRV) failure late after the atrial switch procedure. Two symptomatic patients who presented with exercise-associated cyanosis due to SVA to PVA shunting over the baffle leak underwent successful percutaneous baffle leak closure with a septal occluder device. One patient with overt sRV failure and signs of subpulmonary LV volume overload due to PVA to SVA shunting was managed conservatively, as baffle leak closure was expected to lead to an increase in sRV end-diastolic pressure and aggravation of sRV dysfunction. These three cases illustrate the considerations made, challenges faced, and necessity of a patient-tailored approach when addressing baffle leaks.

Surgical Repair of a Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm.

A surgically challenging case of an unruptured Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SoVA) with severe aortic regurgitation (AR) due to cusp prolapse is presented. Sinus reconstruction with a patch cut out from the sinus portion of a Gelweave Valsalva graft (Terumo Vascutek) was performed. Intraoperative measurements showed insufficient effective height of the right coronary cusp; therefore, cusp plication and pericardial patch augmentation of the right coronary cusp were performed with satisfying result.

Atrioventricular Block Necessitating Chronic Ventricular Pacing After Tricuspid Valve Surgery in Patients With a Systemic Right Ventricle: Long-Term Follow-Up.

Background: Patients with transposition of the great arteries (TGA) after an atrial switch or congenitally corrected TGA (ccTGA) are prone to systemic right ventricular (sRV) failure. Tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation aggravates sRV dysfunction. Timely TV surgery stabilizes sRV function, yet the development of atrioventricular (AV)-conduction disturbances in the course of sRV failure can contribute to sRV dysfunction through pacing-induced dyssynchrony. This study aims to explore the incidence, timing, and functional consequences of AV-block requiring ventricular pacing after TV surgery in patients with sRV. Methods: Consecutive adolescent and adult patients with an sRV who underwent TV surgery between 1989 and 2020 and followed-up at our center were included in this observational cohort study. Results: The data of 28 patients (53% female, 57% ccTGA, and a mean age at surgery 38 ± 13 years) were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 9.7 ± 6.8 years. Of the remaining 22 patients at the risk of developing high degree AV-block after TV surgery, 9 (41%) developed an indication for chronic ventricular pacing during follow-up, of which 5 (56%) within 24 months postoperatively (3 prior to hospital discharge). The QRS duration, a surrogate marker for dyssynchrony, was significantly higher in patients with chronic left ventricular pacing than in patients with native AV-conduction (217 ± 24 vs. 116 ± 23 ms, p = 0.000), as was the heart failure biomarker NT-pro-BNP [2,746 (1,242-6,879) vs. 495 (355-690) ng/L, p = 0.004] and the percentage of patients with ≥1 echocardiographic class of deterioration of systolic sRV function (27 vs. 83%, p = 0.001). Of the patients receiving chronic subpulmonary ventricular pacing (n = 12), 9 (75%) reached the composite endpoint of progressive heart failure [death, ventricular assist device implantation, or upgrade to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)]. Only 4 (31%) patients with native AV-conduction (n = 13) reached this composite endpoint (p = 0.027). Conclusion: Patients with a failing sRV who undergo TV surgery are prone to develop AV-conduction abnormalities, with 41% developing an indication for chronic ventricular pacing during 10 years of follow-up. Patients with chronic subpulmonary ventricular pacing have a significantly longer QRS complex duration, have higher levels of the heart failure biomarker NT-pro-BNP, and are at a higher risk of deterioration of systolic sRV function and progressive heart failure.

Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery: a rare cause of an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in an adult-a case report.

BACKGROUND: Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital disorder resulting in ischaemia and myocardial infarction which can act as a potential substrate for life-threatening arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. CASE SUMMARY: A 19-year-old man was admitted to the hospital after successful resuscitation from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) due to ventricular fibrillation occurring during jogging. In the diagnostic work-up of the OHCA, computed tomography identified an ALCAPA. The patient was referred to our tertiary hospital for surgical correction. Direct reimplantation of the left coronary artery in the aorta was performed. During follow-up, 24-h electrocardiogram revealed short episodes of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT). The magnetic resonance imaging at initial admission showed focal wall thinning and transmural late gadolinium enhancement consistent with a previous anterolateral myocardial infarction. Therefore, the aetiology of the OHCA could be due to a scar-related mechanism and not necessarily due to a reversible cause and an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) was considered indicated. Given the young age and the lower complication rates, a subcutaneous device was preferred over a transvenous ICD. However, as a subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) lacks the possibility of anti-tachycardia pacing, programmed electrical stimulation (PES) was performed to test for inducibility of monomorphic, re-entrant VT. After a negative PES, an S-ICD was implanted. DISCUSSION: ALCAPA is a potential cause of OHCA in young patients. Some of these patients keep an irreversible substrate for ventricular arrhythmias despite full surgical revascularization and might be candidates for (subcutaneous) ICD implantation.

Time course of left ventricular remodelling and mechanics after aortic valve surgery: aortic stenosis vs. aortic regurgitation.

AIMS: Pressure overload in aortic stenosis (AS) and both pressure and volume overload in aortic regurgitation (AR) induce concentric and eccentric hypertrophy, respectively. These structural changes influence left ventricular (LV) mechanics, but little is known about the time course of LV remodelling and mechanics after aortic valve surgery (AVR) and its differences in AS vs. AR. The present study aimed to characterize the time course of LV mass index (LVMI) and LV mechanics [by LV global longitudinal strain (LV GLS)] after AVR in AS vs. AR. METHODS AND RESULTS: Two hundred and eleven (61 ± 14 years, 61% male) patients with severe AS (63%) or AR (37%) undergoing surgical AVR with routine echocardiographic follow-up at 1, 2, and/or 5 years were evaluated. Before AVR, LVMI was larger in AR patients compared with AS. Both groups showed moderately impaired LV GLS, but preserved LV ejection fraction. After surgery, both groups showed LV mass regression, although a more pronounced decline was seen in AR patients. Improvement in LV GLS was observed in both groups, but characterized by an initial decline in AR patients while LV GLS in AS patients remained initially stable. CONCLUSION: In severe AS and AR patients undergoing AVR, LV mass regression and changes in LV GLS are similar despite different LV remodelling before AVR. In AR, relief of volume overload led to reduction in LVMI and an initial decline in LV GLS. In contrast, relief of pressure overload in AS was characterized by a stable LV GLS and more sustained LV mass regression.

Relation of Echocardiographic Markers of Left Atrial Fibrosis to Atrial Fibrillation Burden.

In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), left atrial (LA) fibrosis is a major determinant of the progression to, and burden of AF. LA reservoir strain and total atrial conduction time (PA-TDI) reflect LA fibrotic content. We aimed to investigate the relation between LA reservoir strain and PA-TDI in AF patients and control subjects. Six-hundred two patients (mean age 56 years, 53% men) with first episode of AF and 342 controls (mean age 64 years, 71% men) without structural heart disease underwent echocardiography. LA volumes, PA-TDI, LA reservoir strain, and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) were compared. Compared with controls, patients with paroxysmal AF and patients with persistent AF had longer PA-TDI (128 ± 25 millisecond, 140 ± 31 millisecond, and 154 ± 33 millisecond, respectively; p <0.001) and a progressive decline in LA reservoir strain (36.9 ± 11.6%, 29.8 ± 13.4%, 24.2 ± 12.3%, respectively; p <0.001). LA reservoir strain was negatively correlated with PA-TDI (r = -0.43, p <0.001). On multivariate analyses, LA reservoir strain, diabetes mellitus, and burden of AF were independent correlates of PA-TDI (R2 = 0.23, p <0.001); whereas only PA-TDI was an independent correlate of LA reservoir strain (R2 = 0.43, p <0.001); controlling for age, hypertension, coronary artery disease, body mass index, severity of mitral regurgitation, left ventricular global longitudinal strain, and LA volume. In conclusion, PA-TDI and LA reservoir strain are negatively correlated in all subjects, irrespective of the presence or burden of AF. Patients with persistent AF have longer PA-TDI and impaired LA reservoir strain compared with paroxysmal AF and controls, suggesting increasing burden of fibrosis and LA structural remodeling in the progression of AF.

Mitral valve repair for secondary mitral regurgitation in non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy is associated with left ventricular reverse remodelling and increase of forward flow.

Aims: It remains unclear whether surgical or transcatheter mitral valve repair for secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) in patients with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy reverse the underlying left ventricular (LV) pathophysiology. We hypothesized that mitral valve repair improves LV systolic function and forward flow and induces LV reverse remodelling in this group of patients. Methods and results: Seventy-six patients (65 ± 14 years old, 43% male) with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy and moderate to severe chronic secondary MR treated successfully with transcatheter or surgical mitral valve repair were evaluated. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed at baseline, discharge and 6 months post-repair. After mitral valve repair, LVEF, and LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) corrected for LV end-diastolic volume remained unchanged over time (P = 0.90 and P = 0.96, respectively). In contrast, LV forward flow increased significantly over time (stroke volume index: from 20 ± 7 to 29 ± 8 and 26 ± 8 mL/m2, P < 0.001; cardiac index: from 1.50 ± 0.44 to 2.36 ± 0.60 and 2.01 ± 0.48 L/min/m2, P < 0.001). In addition, LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume index significantly reduced over time (from 87 ± 42 to 70 ± 33 and 75 ± 39 mL/m2, P < 0.001; and from 60 ± 35 to 50 ± 30 and 53 ± 36 mL/m2, P = 0.004, respectively). These changes were independent of the type of repair. Conclusion: Surgical and transcatheter mitral valve repair for secondary MR in patients with non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy improved LV forward flow and induced LV reverse remodelling but did not change LV systolic function.

Three-dimensional assessment of mitral valve annulus dynamics and impact on quantification of mitral regurgitation.

Aims: To assess mitral annulus dynamics in primary and secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) with 3-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE) and the impact on MR quantification. Methods and results: One hundred and twenty-three patients with moderate and severe MR (63 ± 11 years, 78 males) and 29 controls (59 ± 15 years, 19 males) were evaluated. Functional MR (FMR) was present in 31 patients, fibroelastic deficiency (FED) in 52 and Barlow's disease (BD) in 40. Annular geometry was assessed with 3D TEE. The annulus height to commissural width ratio (AHCWR) was calculated to characterize the saddle shape of the mitral annulus. MR was graded as holo- or late-systolic. Effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) and regurgitant volume (Rvol) were measured with 2D and 3D TEE. FMR, FED, and BD patients had larger mitral annular dimensions than controls. BD patients showed the largest dimensions whereas FMR and FED were similar. Early-systolic saddle shape was flatter in FMR whereas, in FED and BD, it was more pronounced. Annular dynamics were reduced in FMR but increased in FED and BD, compared with controls. In BD patients, 3D EROA and Rvol were larger compared with 2D TEE. In BD patients with late systolic MR (48%), 3D Rvol was larger than 2D Rvol. Univariate regression analyses showed significant correlations between relative change of annulus height (ß = 0.43, P = 0.011) and AHCWR (ß = 0.40, P = 0.024) with 3D Rvol in FED and BD. Conclusion: The mitral annulus is enlarged and stiff in FMR patients, whereas in FED and BD it is characterized by excessive dynamicity during systole. Enhanced annular dynamics leads to significant changes in grade of MR measured by 3D TEE particularly in those with late onset MR.

Inter-ethnic differences in valve morphology, valvular dysfunction, and aortopathy between Asian and European patients with bicuspid aortic valve.

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been shown safe and feasible in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) morphology. Evaluation of inter-ethnic differences in valve morphology and function and aortic root dimensions in patients with BAV is important for the worldwide spread of this therapy in this subgroup of patients. Comparisons between large European and Asian cohorts of patients with BAV have not been performed, and potential differences between populations may have important implications for TAVR. Aim: The present study evaluated the differences in valve morphology and function and aortic root dimensions between two large cohorts of European and Asian patients with BAV. Methods and results: Aortic valve morphology was defined on transthoracic echocardiography according to the number of commissures and raphe: type 0 = no raphe and two commissures, type 1 = one raphe and two commissures, type 2 = two raphes and one commissure. Aortic stenosis and regurgitation were graded according to current recommendations. For this study, aortic root dimensions were manually measured on transthoracic echocardiograms at the level of the aortic annulus, sinus of Valsalva (SOV), sinotubular junction (STJ), and ascending aorta (AA). Of 1427 patients with BAV (45.2 ± 18.1 years, 71.9% men), 794 (55.6%) were Europeans and 633 (44.4%) were Asians. The groups were comparable in age and proportion of male sex. Asians had higher prevalence of type 1 BAV with raphe between right and non-coronary cusps than Europeans (19.7% vs. 13.6%, respectively; P < 0.001), whereas the Europeans had higher prevalence of type 0 BAV (two commissures, no raphe) than Asians (14.5% vs. 6.8%, respectively; P < 0.001). The prevalence of moderate and severe aortic regurgitation was higher in Europeans than Asians (44.2% vs. 26.8%, respectively; P < 0.001) whereas there were no differences in BAV with normal function or aortic stenosis. After adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, and valve function, the dimensions of the aortic annulus [mean difference 1.17 mm/m2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96-1.39], SOV (mean difference 1.86 mm/m2, 95% CI 1.47-2.24), STJ (mean difference 0.52 mm/m2, 95% CI 0.14-0.90) and AA (mean difference 1.05 mm/m2, 95% CI 0.57-1.52) were significantly larger among Asians compared with Europeans. Conclusions: This large multicentre registry reports for the first time that Asians with BAV showed more frequently type 1 BAV (with fusion between right and non-coronary cusp) and have larger aortic dimensions than Europeans. These findings have important implications for prosthesis type and size selection for TAVR.

Sex Differences in Phenotypes of Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Aortopathy: Insights From a Large Multicenter, International Registry.

BACKGROUND: This large multicenter, international bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) registry aimed to define the sex differences in prevalence, valve morphology, dysfunction (aortic stenosis/regurgitation), aortopathy, and complications (endocarditis and aortic dissection). METHODS AND RESULTS: Demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic data at first presentation of 1992 patients with BAV (71.5% men) were retrospectively analyzed. BAV morphology and valve function were assessed; aortopathy configuration was defined as isolated dilatation of the sinus of Valsalva or sinotubular junction, isolated dilatation of the ascending aorta distal to the sinotubular junction, or diffuse dilatation of the aortic root and ascending aorta. New cases of endocarditis and aortic dissection were recorded. There were no significant sex differences regarding BAV morphology and frequency of normal valve function. When presenting with moderate/severe aortic valve dysfunction, men had more frequent aortic regurgitation than women (33.8% versus 22.2%, P<0.001), whereas women were more likely to have aortic stenosis (34.5% versus 44.1%, P<0.001). Men had more frequently isolated dilatation of the sinus of Valsalva or sinotubular junction (14.2% versus 6.7%, P<0.001) and diffuse dilatation of the aortic root and ascending aorta (16.2% versus 7.3%, P<0.001) than women. Endocarditis (4.5% versus 2.5%, P=0.037) and aortic dissections (0.5% versus 0%, P<0.001) occurred more frequently in men. CONCLUSIONS: Although there is a male predominance among patients with BAV, men with BAV had more frequently moderate/severe aortic regurgitation at first presentation compared with women, whereas women presented more often with moderate/severe aortic stenosis compared with men. Furthermore, men had more frequent aortopathy than women.

Prognostic Implications of Raphe in Bicuspid Aortic Valve Anatomy.

Importance: Little is known about the association between bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) morphologic findings and the degree of valvular dysfunction, presence of aortopathy, and complications, including aortic valve surgery, aortic dissection, and all-cause mortality. Objective: To investigate the association between BAV morphologic findings (raphe vs nonraphe) and the degree of valve dysfunction, presence of aortopathy, and prognosis (including need for aortic valve surgery, aortic dissection, and all-cause mortality). Design, Setting, and Participants: In this large international multicenter registry of patients with BAV treated at tertiary referral centers, 2118 patients with BAV were evaluated. Patients referred for echocardiography from June 1, 1991, through November 31, 2015, were included in the study. Exposures: Clinical and echocardiographic data were analyzed retrospectively. The morphologic BAV findings were categorized according to the Sievers and Schmidtke classification. Aortic valve function was divided into normal, regurgitation, or stenosis. Patterns of BAV aortopathy included the following: type 1, dilation of the ascending aorta and aortic root; type 2, isolated dilation of the ascending aorta; and type 3, isolated dilation of the sinus of Valsalva and/or sinotubular junction. Main Outcomes and Measures: Association between the presence and location of raphe and the risk of significant (moderate and severe) aortic valve dysfunction and aortic dilation and/or dissection. Results: Of the 2118 patients (mean [SD] age, 47 [18] years; 1525 [72.0%] male), 1881 (88.8%) had BAV with fusion raphe, whereas 237 (11.2%) had BAV without raphe. Bicuspid aortic valves with raphe had a significantly higher prevalence of valve dysfunction, with a significantly higher frequency of aortic regurgitation (622 [33.1%] vs 57 [24.1%], P < .001) and aortic stenosis (728 [38.7%] vs 51 [21.5%], P < .001). Furthermore, aortic valve replacement event rates were significantly higher among patients with BAV with raphe (364 [19.9%] at 1 year, 393 [21.4%] at 2 years, and 447 [24.4%] at 5 years) vs patients without raphe (30 [14.0%] at 1 year, 32 [15.0%] at 2 years, and 40 [18.0%] at 5 years) (P = .02). In addition, the all-cause mortality event rates were significantly higher among patients with BAV with raphe (77 [5.1%] at 1 year, 87 [6.2%] at 2 years, and 110 [9.5%] at 5 years) vs patients without raphe (2 [1.8%] at 1 year, 3 [3.0%] at 2 years, and 5 [4.4%] at 5 years) (P = .03). However, on multivariable analysis, the presence of raphe was not significantly associated with all-cause mortality. Conclusions and Relevance: In this large multicenter, international BAV registry, the presence of raphe was associated with a higher prevalence of significant aortic stenosis and regurgitation. The presence of raphe was also associated with increased rates of aortic valve and aortic surgery. Although patients with BAV and raphe had higher mortality rates than patients without, the presence of a raphe was not independently associated with increased all-cause mortality.

Left bundle branch block after sutureless, transcatheter, and stented biological aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis.

AIMS: Conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR), sutureless AVR (su-AVR) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for severe aortic stenosis (AS) are associated with conduction abnormalities. The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence of left bundle branch block (LBBB) after su-AVR and TAVI, in comparison to conventional AVR. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 501 patients (mean age 74±8 years, 53% male) without preoperative cardiac conduction disturbances who underwent AVR or TAVI were included in the study. Su-AVR patients and TAVI patients had a higher incidence of new-onset LBBB at hospital discharge (23% and 16%, respectively) compared to patients treated with conventional AVR (4%; p<0.001). On multivariate logistic regression analyses, the type of AVR was independently associated with complete LBBB, after correcting for age, preoperative QRS duration and heart rate (su-AVR and TAVI relative to the reference category conventional AVR: odds ratio [OR] 8.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.7-19.5; p<0.001, and OR 5.8, 95% CI: 2.4-14.1; p<0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Su-AVR and TAVI were associated with higher risk of developing postoperative LBBB compared to conventional AVR, after adjusting for age, preoperative heart rate and QRS duration.

Prognostic implications of descending thoracic aorta dilation after surgery for aortic dissection.

BACKGROUND: The present study assessed whether descending thoracic aorta growth can be measured reliably by volumetric analysis using multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) and whether growth influences the need for future aortic interventions in survivors of acute type A aortic dissection. METHODS: A total of 51 patients (58 ± 11 years, 61% male) who underwent surgery for type A aortic dissection with ≥2 postoperative MDCT scans ≥5 months apart were included. Volumetric analysis of the descending thoracic aorta was performed with acceptable intraobserver variability. Growth of the complete, false and true lumen was estimated in ml/year and defined as slow growth (≤average growth) or fast growth (>average growth). RESULTS: The complete lumen volume increased from 133 ± 8 ml to 163 ± 9 ml after 3.5 years follow-up (p < 0.001), with an average growth rate of 6.1 ml/year. The false lumen volume increased from 81 ± 7 ml to 106 ± 12 ml (p = 0.018) with an average growth rate of 2.8 ml/year. The true lumen changed only slightly from 59 ± 4 ml to 65 ± 8 ml (p = 0.205). Five-year freedom from descending thoracic aorta intervention was significantly lower in patients with above-average growth of the complete lumen (80 ± 9%) compared to slow growth (100%; p = 0.003). Similar observations were made for the false lumen (fast: 74 ± 12% vs. slow: 100%; p = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS: Increased growth of the false lumen of the descending thoracic aorta after type A aortic dissection was associated with a higher risk of secondary interventions.

Three-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiography of the aortic valve and root: changes in aortic root dilation and aortic regurgitation.

AIMS: It has been hypothesized that in response to dilation of the aortic root, the aortic valve cusps may remodel to prevent aortic regurgitation (AR). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between aortic cusp dimensions and aortic root geometry. METHODS AND RESULTS: Three-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiography was performed in 40 patients with aortic root dilation (mean age 57 ± 12 years, 75% men, 35% bicuspid aortic valve) and 20 controls with a normal aortic root (mean age 61 ± 13 years, 65% men). Aortic valve geometry was measured, and the ratio between closed cusp area and sinotubular junction (STJ) area as a measure of the aortic cusp remodelling relative to the aortic root dilation was assessed. Patients with aortic root dilation with tricuspid aortic valve (n = 26) showed significant increase in aortic cusp size. However, the closed cusp area to STJ area ratio was smaller in dilated aortic roots [0.88 (95% confidence interval: 0.78-0.98)] compared with normal aortic roots [1.22 (95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.41); P = 0.002]. In addition, in patients with central AR, there was insufficient cusp tissue, as suggested by a closed cusp area to STJ area ratio of 0.75 (95% confidence interval: 0.67-0.82), compared with relative excess of cusp tissue in eccentric AR with a ratio of 1.14 (95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.27; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Aortic root dilation was associated with significant increase in aortic valve cusp size. However, this increase seemed insufficient to match aortic root size, particularly in central AR, whereas in eccentric AR, there was relative abundance of cusp tissue resulting in relative cusp prolapse.

Effect of Aortic Valve Replacement on Aortic Root Dilatation Rate in Patients With Bicuspid and Tricuspid Aortic Valves.

BACKGROUND: It remains unclear whether aortic valve replacement (AVR) has an effect on the aortic root dilatation rate in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). The present study evaluated the pre- and postoperative annual aortic root dilatation rates in BAV and TAV. METHODS: A total of 93 patients (67 ± 11 years; 71% men) who underwent AVR between 2003 and 2013 and had at least 2 pre- and postoperative echocardiographic studies 1 year or more apart were included in this retrospective observational study. The sinus of Valsalva (SOV), sinotubular junction (STJ) and ascending aorta (AAo) were measured in the parasternal long-axis view. RESULTS: Patients with BAV (n = 22) were significantly younger and had less coronary artery disease than patients with TAV (n = 71). At all points in time, the aortic root diameters were larger in BAV compared with TAV. Preoperatively, the STJ and AAo grew significantly faster in BAV compared with TAV (STJ, 0.27 versus 0.04 mm/y; p = 0.021; AAo, 0.42 versus 0.15 mm/y; p = 0.019). After operation, there were no significant differences in aortic root dilatation rates between BAV and TAV (SOV, -0.01 versus 0.15 mm/y; p = 0.096; STJ, 0.08 versus 0.05 mm/y; p = 0.676; AAo, 0.28 versus 0.35 mm/y; p = 0.745). CONCLUSIONS: The annual aortic root dilatation rates were significantly higher in BAV compared with TAV before AVR. However, after AVR, aortic root dilatation rates were similar in BAV and TAV, suggesting an important role of hemodynamics on aortic root dilatation in BAV.

Left ventricular reverse remodeling after aortic valve surgery for acute versus chronic aortic regurgitation.

AIMS: Extent of left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling after aortic valve repair or replacement (AVR) may differ between patients operated for acute aortic regurgitation (AR) and chronic AR. The aim of this study was to compare changes in LV volumes and function between patients with acute and chronic AR who underwent AVR. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 98 patients (54±15 years, 61% men) with acute (n=21) or chronic AR (n=77) were included in the present retrospective evaluation. LV volumes, LV ejection fraction, and global longitudinal strain indexed for LV end-diastolic volume (GLSi) were assessed preoperatively and after a median follow-up of 28 months (interquartile range: 17-66 months). Patients with acute AR tended to have smaller preoperative LV end-diastolic volume compared with chronic AR (156±15 vs 183±6 mL; P=.070). Both in patients with acute and chronic AR, significant LV reverse remodeling with sustained reduction in LV volumes occurred during follow-up with a significant smaller LV end-diastolic volume in acute AR compared with chronic AR (106±8 vs 128±5 mL; P=.032). Preoperative and postoperative LV ejection fractions were not significantly different between groups. In contrast, GLSi was better in patients with acute AR compared with chronic AR before AVR (-1.34±0.20 vs -0.96±0.07%/10 mL; P=.042) and during follow-up (-1.65±0.16 vs -1.29±0.07%/10 mL; P=.017). CONCLUSIONS: After AVR, LV reverse remodeling occurs both in patients with acute and chronic AR. However, LV end-diastolic volume was more reduced and GLSi was more preserved during follow-up in acute AR than in chronic AR.

Impact of Different Iterations of Devices and Degree of Aortic Valve Calcium on Paravalvular Regurgitation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

The iterations of the SAPIEN prosthesis might impact the incidence and grade of paravalvular regurgitation (PVR). The aim of this study was to assess the impact of iterations of balloon-expandable valves (SAPIEN, SAPIEN XT, and SAPIEN 3) and degree of aortic valve calcification (AVC) on the severity of PVR after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Comprehensive echocardiographic examinations and multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) were performed in 272 patients (127 men, 81 ± 7 years old, logistic EuroScore of 21 ± 13%) who underwent TAVI with 23- and 26-mm balloon-expandable valves. The degree of AVC was assessed with MDCT. PVR grade was assessed with echocardiography. The cover index was calculated as (prosthesis area - MDCT annulus area)/prosthesis area. SAPIEN, SAPIEN XT, and SAPIEN 3 prostheses were implanted in 103 patients (38%), 105 patients (38.5%), and 64 patients (23.5%), respectively. Significant PVR (≥moderate) occurred in 14%, 10%, and 0% of patients receiving the SAPIEN, SAPIEN XT, and SAPIEN 3, respectively (p = 0.010). Across the groups, the aortic annulus size, degree of calcification, and cover index were comparable. Larger burden of AVC was independently associated with significant PVR (odds ratio 3.48, p = 0.006) after adjusting for age, body surface area, gender, aortic annulus area, cover index, and prosthesis iteration. SAPIEN 3 was associated with lower frequency of significant PVR (odds ratio 0.31, p = 0.002). In conclusion, the incidence of significant PVR significantly decreased over time with improvement in valve design. SAPIEN 3 was associated with less significant PVR after TAVI independently of the AVC burden.

Comparison of Left Ventricular Volume and Ejection Fraction and Frequency and Extent of Aortic Regurgitation After Operative Repair of Type A Aortic Dissection Among Three Different Surgical Techniques.

Differences in recurrence rate of aortic regurgitation (AR) and extent of left ventricular (LV) remodeling across the different surgical options in patients operated for type A aortic dissection remain unknown. The present evaluation compared the AR recurrence rate and changes in LV volumes and systolic function in valve-sparing aorta replacement (VSAR), supracoronary ascending aorta replacement (SCAR), and aortic valve and aorta replacement (AVAR). A total of 97 patients (58 ± 12 years, 62% men) with acute type A aortic dissection who underwent VSAR (n = 24), SCAR (n = 43), or AVAR (n = 30) were evaluated. Changes in LV volumes and function between postoperative and follow-up were compared using linear mixed models. Postoperative AR grades were not significantly different between groups. However, after median follow-up of 47 months, AR grade ≥2 was significantly more often observed in SCAR (55%) and VSAR (25%) compared to AVAR (0%, p <0.001). LV volumes remained stable in VSAR and AVAR but increased significantly in SCAR (LV end-diastolic volume: from 99 ± 4 to 131 ± 6 ml; p <0.001; LV end-systolic volume: from 49 ± 3 to 66 ± 5 ml; p = 0.002). In patients with recurrent AR grade ≥2 at follow-up, LV volumes increased, whereas patients without recurrent AR did not show significant LV dilatation. In conclusion, patients with acute type A aortic dissection who underwent SCAR or VSAR showed more frequently AR grade ≥2 recurrence compared to AVAR. However, only patients who underwent SCAR experienced adverse LV remodeling at follow-up. Recurrence of AR grade ≥2 was associated with adverse LV remodeling.