Mechanical Support in High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: Review Article.

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) may manifest with mild nonspecific symptoms or progress to a more severe hemodynamic collapse and sudden cardiac arrest. A substantial thrombotic burden can precipitate sudden right ventricular strain and failure. Traditionally, systemic thrombolytics have been employed in such scenarios; however, patients often present with contraindications, or these interventions may prove ineffective. Outcomes for this medically complex patient population are unfavorable, necessitating a compelling argument for advanced therapeutic modalities or alternative approaches. Moreover, patients frequently experience complications beyond hemodynamic instability, such as profound hypoxia and multiorgan failure, necessitating assertive early interventions to avert catastrophic consequences. The existing data on the utilization of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices are not exhaustive. Various options for percutaneous MCS devices exist, each possessing distinct advantages and disadvantages. There is an imminent imperative to develop a tailored approach for this high-risk patient cohort to enhance their overall outcomes.

Improved Hemodynamics With Self-Expanding Compared to Balloon-Expandable Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Small Annulus Patients: A Propensity-Matched Analysis.

Patients with small aortic annuli (SAAs) pose a challenge in patients who underwent aortic valve replacement because of the potential for prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM). This study aimed to compare the clinical and hemodynamic outcomes of self-expandable valve (SEV) versus balloon-expandable valve (BEV) transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with severe aortic stenosis and SAAs. All patients who underwent TAVI for severe native aortic stenosis with an SAA between January 2018 and December 2022 were retrospectively included in the study from a single center. Propensity score matching was performed to balance the baseline characteristics. Bioprosthesis valve dysfunction was based on modified Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 criteria. A total of 1,170 TAVI procedures were performed between 2018 and 2022. After applying the exclusion criteria, 332 patients reported an SAA at computed tomography scan, and the matching created 109 balanced pairs. Echocardiographic data at discharge showed higher mean transvalvular gradients (p <0.001), higher grades of mitral regurgitation (p = 0.029), and lower ejection fraction (p <0.043) in BEVs than SEVs. At follow-up, significant differences favoring the SEV group regarding bioprosthesis valve dysfunction were observed (p = 0.002), especially in terms of severe PPM (p = 0.046) and at least moderate structural valve deterioration (p = 0.040). In conclusion, TAVI in patients with SAAs using a BEV was associated with lower valve areas, higher mean pressure gradients, and PPM (including severe) than a SEV. Short- and midterm all-cause and cardiac-related mortality did not differ between the 2 groups. Future randomized studies with extended follow-ups are warranted to validate these outcomes.

Heart Failure With Stable Mildly-reduced Ejection Fraction: Prognosis and Predictors of Outcomes.

Heart failure with mildly-reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) of 40%-49% is an under-recognized type of heart failure. The prognosis and predictors of outcomes of stable mildly-reduced ejection fraction (EF) of 1 year are unclear. This is a retrospective study. Included patients had stable left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) for at least 1 year (n = 609) and were classified into 3 groups based on LVEF. Clinical outcome measures were all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, and HF hospitalization (HFH). In patients with stable HFmrEF of one year, the predictors of clinical outcomes and hospital length of stay (LOS) were studied. Patients with stable HFmrEF had lower HFH rate compared to stable HFrEF with HR = 0.52 (95% CI = 0.39-0.70), P = 0.0001, and a higher HFH rate compared to stable HFpEF with HR = 1.23 (95% CI = 1.01-1.50), P = 0.032. Mortality rates were similar between all groups. In the stable HFmrEF patients, beta-blockers caused lower cardiac mortality, and CKD had fewer HFH. Unfavorable predictors were loop diuretics for mortality, and higher NYHA class for HFH. Smoking and CKD were associated with a longer hospital stay. Stable HFmrEF patients with at least one HF admission had higher mortality. Patients with stable HFmrEF had a lower HFH rate compared to stable HFrEF and higher HFH rate compared to stable HFpEF. In patients with stable HFmrEF, CKD, NYHA class, beta-blockers, and loop diuretics were predictors of clinical outcomes. Smoking and CKD were predictors of hospital LOS.

Clinical and echocardiographic outcomes with new-onset left bundle branch block after SAPIEN-3 transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

BACKGROUND: New-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) can develop after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) resulting in worse outcomes. AIMS: Describe clinical and echocardiographic outcomes with new-onset LBBB after TAVR. METHODS: We included consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral-TAVR with SAPIEN-3 (S3) valve between April 2015 and December 2018. Exclusion criteria included pre-existing LBBB, right BBB, left anterior hemiblock, left posterior hemiblock, wide QRS ≥ 120ms, prior permanent pacemaker (PPM), and nontransfemoral access. RESULTS: Among 612 patients, 11.4% developed new-onset LBBB upon discharge. The length of stay was longer with new-onset LBBB compared with no LBBB [3 (2-5) days versus 2 (1-3) days; p < 0.001]. New-onset LBBB was associated with higher rates of 30-day PPM requirement (18.6% vs. 5.4%; p < 0.001) and 1-year heart failure hospitalizations (10.7% vs. 4.4%; p = 0.033). There was no difference in 3-year mortality between both groups (30.9% vs. 30.6%; p = 0.829). Further, new-onset LBBB was associated with lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at both 30 days (55.9 ± 11.4% vs. 59.3 ± 9%; p = 0.026) and 1 year (55 ± 12% vs. 60.1 ± 8.9%; p = 0.002). These changes were still present when we stratified patients according to baseline LVEF (≥50% or <50%). New-onset LBBBs were associated with a higher 1-year LV end-diastolic volume index (51.4 ± 18.6 vs. 46.4 ± 15.1 ml/m2 ; p = 0.036), and LV end-systolic volume index (23.2 ± 14.1 vs. 18.9 ± 9.7 ml/m2 ; p = 0.009). Compared with resolved new-onset LBBB, persistent new-onset LBBB was associated with worse LVEF and higher PPM at 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: New-onset LBBB after S3 TAVR was associated with higher PPM requirement, worse LVEF, higher LV volumes, and increased heart failure hospitalizations, with no difference in mortality.

Outcomes of Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients <60 Years of Age.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an alternative therapeutic modality to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). In the current analysis, we compare the characteristics and outcomes of AVR procedures in patients <60 years of age. METHODS: We queried the Nationwide Readmissions Database for all AVR hospitalizations in patients 18-59 years of age between January 2012 and December 2017. We performed a propensity score matching analysis (1:1) and compared baseline characteristics, procedural complications, and outcomes between TAVR and SAVR patients. RESULTS: A total of 72,356 hospitalizations for AVR were identified in patients <60 years of age. Compared to their SAVR counterparts, TAVR patients were older (52.5 ± 7.6) vs. 48.8 ± 9.6, p < 0.001), more likely to be women (37.9% vs. 28.0%, p < 0.001), and have history of prior radiation (8.3% vs. 0.7%, p < 0.001). After propensity score matching, TAVR patients had lower procedural complications, but a similar mortality rate compared to SAVR patients (2.9% vs. 3.0%, p = 0.77). TAVR was associated with a shorter length of hospital stay [4 [2-9] vs. 6 [5-11], p < 0.001), but no significant difference in the 30-day readmission rate was noted (16.2% vs. 16.8%, p-value = 0.49). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates favorable short-term outcomes in younger patients undergoing TAVR, which improved over time. Further investigation of long-term outcomes in TAVR performed younger patients is warranted to draw a comprehensive picture of TAVR safety and efficacy in low-risk patients.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome Who Received Percutaneous Coronary Intervention During Snowy Days.

BACKGROUND: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is affected by several weather conditions. Studies from different geographical locations have yielded mixed results regarding the outcomes of patients presenting with ACS during snowy days, and we aim to report the Cleveland Clinic experience. METHODS: Patients who presented with an ACS and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from July 1, 2009 to September 30, 2017 were divided into ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and non-ST segment elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS). According to snowy day arrival, we compared in-hospital mortality, culprit lesion anatomy, and door-to-balloon (DTB) time (in STEMI patients). Findings were confirmed in propensity-score matched cohorts. RESULTS: A total of 6878 patients were included: 1608 patients with STEMI (139 snowy-day vs 1469 non-snowy day PCIs) and 5270 NSTE-ACS (419 snowy-day vs 4851 non-snowy day PCIs). Right coronary artery territories accounted for most of the stented culprit lesions in all STEMI and NSTE-ACS snowy-day PCIs. While left anterior descending artery lesions were predominant in NSTE-ACS non-snowy day PCIs. There was no difference in in-hospital mortality between the snowy-day vs non-snowy day groups (4.3% vs 4.5% in the STEMI group [P=.92] and 1.2% vs 1.7% in the NSTE-ACS group [P=41]). In STEMI patients, mean DTB times were similar (43 ± 55.1 minutes vs 46.7 ± 59.6 minutes; P=.61), which remained true after hours, during weekends and holidays. Outcomes were similar in propensity-score matched cohorts. CONCLUSION: At our institution, snowy days do not seem to affect in-patient mortality. In STEMI patients, DTB times were similar in those who underwent PCI regardless of the snowfall.

Comparison of Transvalvular Aortic Mean Gradients Obtained by Intraprocedural Echocardiography and Invasive Measurement in Balloon and Self-Expanding Transcatheter Valves.

Background Concerns about discordance between echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with balloon-expandable valves (BEVs) versus self-expanding valves (SEVs) exist. Methods and Results In a multicenter study, direct-invasive and echocardiography-derived transvalvular mean gradients obtained before and after TAVR were compared as well as post-TAVR and discharge echocardiographic mean gradients in BEVs versus SEVs in 808 patients. Pre-TAVR, there was good correlation (R=0.614; P<0.0001) between direct-invasive and echocardiography-derived mean gradients and weak correlation (R=0.138; P<0.0001) post-TAVR. Compared with post-TAVR echocardiographic mean gradients, both valves exhibit lower invasive and higher discharge echocardiographic mean gradients. Despite similar invasive mean gradients, a small BEV exhibits higher post-TAVR and discharge echocardiographic mean gradients than a large BEV, whereas small and large SEVs exhibit similar post-TAVR and discharge mean gradients. An ejection fraction <50% (P=0.028) and higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality score (P=0.007), but not invasive or echocardiographic mean gradient ≥10 mm Hg (P=0.378 and P=0.341, respectively), nor discharge echocardiographic mean gradient ≥20 mm Hg (P=0.393), were associated with increased 2-year mortality. Conclusions Invasively measured and echocardiography-derived transvalvular mean gradients correlate well in aortic stenosis but weakly post-TAVR. Post-TAVR, echocardiography overestimates transvalvular mean gradients compared with invasive measurements, and poor correlation suggests these modalities cannot be used interchangeably. Moreover, echocardiographic mean gradients are higher on discharge than post-TAVR in all valves. Despite similar invasive mean gradients, a small BEV exhibits higher post-TAVR and discharge echocardiographic mean gradients than a large BEV, whereas small and large SEVs exhibit similar post-TAVR and discharge mean gradients. Immediately post-TAVR, elevated echocardiographic-derived mean gradients should be assessed with caution and compared with direct-invasive mean gradients. A low ejection fraction and higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons score, but not elevated mean gradients, are associated with increased 2-year mortality.

Pneumothorax prevalence and mortality per gestational age in the newborn.

OBJECTIVES: Pneumothorax (PTX) in newborns is a life-threatening condition associated with high morbidity and mortality especially in premature infants. The frequency of PTX in neonates at different gestational ages (GA) and its impact on neonatal mortality have not been quantified. We aimed to determine: (1) the prevalence of PTX in neonates at different GA from ≤24 to ≥37 weeks, (2) the impact of PTX on mortality per GA, and (3) the impact of PTX on the length of stay (LOS) per GA. METHODS: The national Kids' Inpatient Database for the years of 2006-2012 were used. We included all infants admitted to the hospital with a documented GA and International Classification of Disease 9 code of PTX. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted and odds ratios (OR) were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 10,625,036 infants were included; of them 3665 infants (0.034%) had a diagnosis of PTX, with highest prevalence at ≤24 weeks GA (0.67%), and lowest at term (0.02%). The overall mortality rate of patients with PTX was 8.8%, and greater in preterm (16.3%) versus term infants (2.7%). The association of mortality with PTX was greatest at GA of 29-32 weeks (OR = 8.55; 95% confidence interval: 6.56-11.13). Infants who survived until discharge had a median of 2-12 days longer LOS depending on GA category. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of PTX peaks in infants less than 24 weeks, however, its impact on mortality is greatest at 29-32 weeks. PTX is associated with longer LOS in survivors.

Invasive versus echocardiographic gradients in degenerated surgical aortic valve prostheses: A multicenter study.

Objectives: To compare echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients obtained concomitantly in degenerated bioprosthetic surgical aortic valves (SAVRs). Methods: In a multicenter study, we compared concomitant echocardiographic and invasive mean gradients of SAVR, obtained before valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement in all patients, patients with primary stenosis (AS), primary aortic regurgitation (AR), and mixed aortic valve disease (MAVD), and in small versus large valves (≤ or >23 mm). Dimensionless index (DI) was calculated in all groups. Results: In total, 74 patients were included and data presented as median (interquartile range). Echocardiography-catheterization mean gradient discordance was observed in all patients (invasive = 22 mm Hg [11-34] vs echocardiographic = 32 mm Hg [21-42], P = .013), small valves (invasive = 15 mm Hg [8-34] vs echocardiographic = 28 mm Hg [21-41], P = .013), and large valves (invasive = 20 mm Hg [8.5-27.13] vs echocardiographic = 32 mm Hg [25.5 - 41.5], P < .0001), with a bias of 8 ± 15 mm Hg and wide limits of agreement (-22 to 39 mm Hg) on Bland-Altman plots, indicating these modalities may not be interchangeable. Discordance occurred in AR (invasive = 3 mm Hg [1-6] vs echocardiographic = 12 mm Hg [7-22], P = .017) and in MAVD (invasive = 19 mm Hg [12-29] vs echocardiographic = 31 mm Hg [23-39], P < .0001) but not in AS (invasive = 35 mm Hg [24-45] vs echocardiographic = 41 mm Hg [30-50], P = .45). A lower DI (0.21 [0.14-0.25]) occurred in AS compared with MAVD (0.31 [0.19-0.39]) and AR (0.55 [0.51-0.69]), P < .0001. Conclusions: Discordance between echocardiography and invasive mean gradients exists in degenerated SAVR, regardless of valve size, but depends on mechanism of failure and DI helps stratify these patients. With a discrepancy between echocardiographic mean gradients AND the patient's symptoms OR the valve leaflet structure and/or mobility on imaging, especially before redo-SAVR or valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement, invasive gradients may adjudicate the true valvular hemodynamics.

Prevalence of venous thromboembolism in admissions and readmissions with and without syncope: a nationwide cohort study.

AIMS: The Pulmonary Embolism in Syncope Italian Trial reported 17.3% prevalence of pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients admitted with syncope. We investigated the prevalence of venous thromboembolism [VTE, including PE and deep vein thrombosis (DVT)] in syncope vs. non-syncope admissions and readmissions, and if syncope is an independent predictor of VTE. METHODS AND RESULTS: We conducted an observational study of index admissions of the 2013-14 Nationwide Readmission Database. We excluded patients <18 years, December discharges, died during hospitalization, hospital transfers, and missing length of stay. Encounters were stratified by the presence or absence of DVT/PE and syncope diagnoses. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between syncope and VTE. There were 38 655 570 admissions, of whom 285 511 had syncope. In the overall cohort, syncope occurred in 1.6% of VTE and 1.8% in non-VTE admissions. In a multivariable model, syncope was associated with a lower prevalence of VTE [odds ratio (OR) 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75-0.78; P < 0.001]. In index syncope vs. non-syncope admissions, the prevalence of DVT, PE, and VTE were 0.4 ± 0.06% vs. 1.3 ± 0.12%, 0.2 ± 0.04% vs. 1.2 ± 0.11%, and 0.5 ± 0.07% vs. 2.1 ± 0.14% (all P < 0.001), respectively. At 30 days, the prevalence of DVT, PE, and VTE in syncope vs. non-syncope were 2.2 ± 0.14% vs. 2.1 ± 0.14% (P = 0.38), 1.4 ± 0.12% vs. 1.2 ± 0.11% (P = 0.01), and 2.6 ± 0.17% vs. 3.0 ± 0.17% (P = 0.99), respectively. CONCLUSION: Syncope admissions were associated with a lower prevalence of VTE as compared to non-syncope admissions. Syncope should not trigger an automatic PE workup, rather, should be put into context of patient presentation.

Surgical Versus Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Malignancy.

BACKGROUND: Patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and malignancy experience poor clinical outcomes with challenging decisions regarding aortic valve replacement (AVR). We sought to compare the outcomes of transcatheter (TAVR) versus surgical (SAVR) AVR in patients with AS and malignancy. METHODS: Based on the Nationwide Readmission Database, we compared all patients with malignancy who underwent isolated SAVR vs. TAVR in 2016 for severe AS. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses for baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes. A total of 2566 patients were included, 1952 (76%) had TAVR and the remaining 614 (24%) had isolated SAVR. Patients who underwent TAVR were older (82 vs 72 years, p < .001), had more metastasis (19 vs 14%, p = .004), heart failure (72% vs 34%, p < .001), coronary artery disease (72% vs 52%, p < .001), anemia (28% vs 22%, p = .006), chronic lung (30% vs 22%, p < .001) and renal disease (35% vs 14%, p < .001), and shorter length of stay (3 vs 7 days, p < .001). RESULTS: In multivariate regression, TAVR and SAVR had similar in-patient mortality (HR = 1.08; 95%CI 0.61 ̶ 1.94) and 30-day readmission (HR = 1.26; 95%CI 0.95 ̶ 1.67). TAVR was associated with lower vascular complications (HR = 0.59; 95%CI 0.41 ̶ 0.86), acute deep venous thrombosis (HR = 0.25, 95%CI 0.1 ̶ 0.59), acute kidney injury (HR = 0.24, 95%CI 0.17 ̶ 0.33), blood transfusion (HR = 0.22, 95%CI 0.16 ̶ 0.3), cardiogenic shock (HR = 0.48, 95%CI 0.26 ̶ 0.89), and respiratory complications (HR = 0.26, 95%CI 0.2 ̶ 0.35). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with malignancy, TAVR is a viable and safe option compared to SAVR with better clinical outcomes, especially thromboembolic events.

National Trends of Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Use in Patients Admitted With Acute Myocardial Infarction.

BACKGROUND: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a significant health and economic burden in the US. Tobacco, alcohol, and drug use are established risk factors. We sought to evaluate the national trend of use of each substance in patients admitted with AMI. METHODS: We used the National Inpatient Sample between 2005 and 2017. We included adult patients hospitalized with AMI. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revisions codes were used to define tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, opioid, cannabis and other drug use. Trends of each substance use were assessed using multivariable Poisson regression, and were expressed as annual percent change (APC) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: A total of 10,796,844 hospitalizations with AMI were included. Among all substances used, tobacco was the most common (32.7%), followed by alcohol (3.2%). Between 2005 and 2017, the prevalence ratio of tobacco use increased from 21.5% to 44.5% with an APC +6.2% (95%CI 6.2%-6.2%). Tobacco users had more percutaneous coronary intervention (41%vs25%) and coronary artery bypass surgery (6.9%vs4.9%), p < 0.001. Further, there were positive trends in alcohol (APC +3.1%; 95%CI 3.0%-3.2%), opioid (APC +9.0%; 95%CI 8.7%-9.2%), cannabis (APC + 7.2; 95% CI 7%-7.4%), and combined all drug use (+7.1%; 95%CI 7%-7.2%). Meanwhile, there was a slight negative trend in cocaine use. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis outlines the national trends of substance use in patients admitted with AMI and reveals an increasing prevalence of tobacco use, alcohol and drug use. More effective cessation measures are necessary to reduce the risk for AMI and its burden on the healthcare system and economy.

Impact of Obesity in Hospitalized Patients with Heart Failure: A Nationwide Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVES: Obesity and cardiovascular disease remain significant burdens on the overall provision of health care in the United States. Obesity has been shown to be a direct risk factor for heart failure (HF). We conducted a nationwide cohort study to assess the short-term impact of obesity in hospitalized patients with HF. METHODS: We identified 1,520,871 encounters with a primary diagnosis of HF in the 2013-2014 Nationwide Readmission Database. We excluded patients younger than 18 years (n = 2755), hospitalized patients discharged in December (n = 126,137), patients with missing mortality information (n = 477), missing length of stay (LOS; n = 91), patients who were transferred to another hospital (n = 38,489), and patients with conflicting body weight information (n = 7757). Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between baseline characteristics (including the presence of obesity) and in-hospital mortality, as well as 30-day readmission rates. RESULTS: The overall in-patient mortality rate was 2.8% (n = 37,927). Obese patients had numerically a lower mortality (1.8%) compared with the nonobese patients (3.1%); however, the difference in risk was not significant on multivariable analysis (hazard ratio 0.97, 95% confidence interval 0.94-1.01). In the overall cohort, 20.6% (n = 269,988) were readmitted within 30 days. The risk of 30-day readmission was significantly lower in obese patients (19.4%) compared with nonobese patients (20.9%) (odds ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.84-0.86). Obese patients had longer LOSs (median of 5 days [3-7] vs 4 days [2-6], P < 0.001) and higher costs of index admission (median of $27,206 [$16,027-$48,316] vs $23,339 [$13,698-$41,982], P < 0.001) compared with nonobese patients. CONCLUSIONS: In this cross-sectional study of patients hospitalized for HF in the United States, obesity was not associated with a higher risk of inpatient mortality, but it was associated with a lower 30-day readmission rate. Obese patients with HF, however, had longer LOSs and higher costs of index admission. Our findings support the obesity paradox seen in patients with HF.

Comparison of acute recoil after valve deployment and after post-dilation in patients undergoing transfemoral-transcatheter aortic valve replacement with SAPIEN-3 valve.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valves are prone to acute recoil similar to the metal-based coronary stents. However, it is not clear if recoil remains a factor only after the initial valve deployment or also after post-dilation. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients who underwent transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with SAPIEN-3 valve. Acute recoil at the upper, central, and lower levels of the valve was calculated in both anteroposterior right anterior oblique (RAO) and lateral left anterior oblique (LAO) views after initial deployment as well as after post-dilation. The average recoil of the RAO and LAO views was also calculated and described as RAO/LAO. RESULTS: The acute recoil in the RAO/LAO views (mean ± SD) was 3.9 ± 1.1% after valve deployment in the whole study population (n = 257). Among the subset of patients who required post-dilation (n = 133), the mean acute recoil in the RAO/LAO views was found to be greater after initial valve deployment as compared with after post-dilation (3.8 ± 1.1% vs. 3.0 ± 0.9%; p < .001). Further, acute recoil was significantly greater in the RAO view than the LAO view and at the central level of the prosthesis as compared with the upper and lower levels. Those findings were consistent after initial deployment as well as after post-dilation. Clinical outcomes were similar between patients who required post-dilation compared to those who did not. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, only smaller valve cover index was found to be an independent predictor of 30-day mild or greater aortic regurgitation (OR 0.007; 95% CI 0.0001-0.707; p = .035). CONCLUSION: Acute elastic recoil of the SAPIEN-3 valve was significantly less after post-dilation as compared with after deployment. It was also greater when measured in the RAO view as compared with the LAO view. Furthermore, acute recoil was not homogenous across the height of the valve stent frame.

The Utility of Rapid Atrial Pacing Immediately Post-TAVR to Predict the Need for Pacemaker Implantation.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the utility of rapid atrial pacing immediately after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) to predict the need for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI). BACKGROUND: Risk stratification for patients without high-grade atrioventricular block (AVB) after TAVR is imprecise and based on anatomic considerations, electrocardiographic characteristics, and clinical suspicion. A more reliable assessment is necessary to minimize inpatient rhythm monitoring and/or reduce unnecessary PPI. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR at 2 centers were included. After valve implantation in patients without pacemakers who did not have complete heart block or atrial fibrillation, the temporary pacemaker was withdrawn from the right ventricle and placed in the right atrium. Rapid atrial pacing was performed from 70 to 120 beats/min, and patients were assessed for the development of Wenckebach AVB. Patients were then followed for clinical outcomes, including PPI. RESULTS: A total of 284 patients were included. Of these, 130 (45.8%) developed Wenckebach AVB. There was a higher rate of PPI within 30 days of TAVR among the patients who developed Wenckebach AVB (13.1% vs. 1.3%; p < 0.001), with a negative predictive value for PPI in the group without Wenckebach AVB of 98.7%. A greater percentage of patients receiving self-expanding valves required PPI than those receiving a balloon-expandable valves (15.9% vs. 3.7%; p = 0.001), though these rates were still relatively low among patients who did not develop Wenckebach AVB (2.9% and 0.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Atrial pacing post-TAVR is easily performed and can help identify patients who may benefit from extended rhythm monitoring. Patients who did not develop pacing-induced Wenckebach AVB demonstrated an extremely low likelihood of PPI.

Neonatal seizures in the U.S. National Inpatient Population: Prevalence and outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Seizures are the most frequent neurological manifestation in neonates. Prevalence of neonatal seizures has not been well described in relationship with gestational age (GA). Also, the impact of seizures on neonatal mortality has not been quantified. This study aims to determine 1) prevalence of neonatal seizures in all GA groups, 2) associated mortality in each GA group and 3) impact of seizures on length of stay (LOS) of survivors in each GA group. METHODS: Data from the national Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) for the years 2006, 2009 and 2012 was used in the study. All admitted infants with a documented GA were included in the study. All categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square test, continuous variables were analyzed using t-test, and logistic regression analysis used to calculate odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: A total of 10, 572,209 infants were included, of whom 4400 infants (0.04%) had seizures. The highest prevalence was at 24 weeks (0.12%). Overall mortality rate of patients with seizures was 4% with OR = 2.24 (95% CI = 1.90-2.65, p < 0.001). The correlation of seizure with mortality was significant after 33 weeks GA with greatest impact at 33-36 weeks GA (OR = 46.38 (95% CI = 26.86-80.08, p < 0.001). Seizures were associated with increased median LOS from 2 to 4 days (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of seizures varies according to gestational age ranging from 0.02% to 0.12%. The highest prevalence is at 24 weeks GA. The greatest impact for seizures on mortality is at 33-36 weeks GA.

Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Mixed Aortic Valve Disease.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with pure aortic stenosis (AS) (i.e., no or trivial associated aortic regurgitation [AR]) with those in patients with AS and mild or more severe AR (i.e., mixed aortic valve disease [MAVD]). BACKGROUND: TAVR is indicated in treating patients with severe AS. Limited data exist regarding the outcomes of TAVR in patients with MAVD. METHODS: A total of 1,133 patients who underwent TAVR between January 2014 and December 2017 were included. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. The comparison was adjusted to account for post-TAVR AR development in both groups. The secondary outcomes included composite endpoints of early safety and clinical efficacy as specified in the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria. Variables were compared using Mann-Whitney, chi-square, and Fisher exact tests, while Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare survival. RESULTS: A total of 688 patients (61%) had MAVD (median age 83 years , 43% women). Among these, 17% developed mild, 2% moderate, and <1% severe post-TAVR AR. Overall, patients with MAVD had better survival compared with patients with pure AS (p = 0.03). Among patients who developed post-TAVR AR, those in the MAVD group had better survival (p = 0.04). In contrast, in patients who did not develop post-TAVR AR, pre-TAVR AR did not improve survival (p = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with MAVD who underwent TAVR had better survival compared with patients with pure AS. This is explained by the better survival of patients with MAVD who developed post-TAVR AR, likely due to left ventricular adaptation to AR.

Unilateral Access Is Safe and Facilitates Peripheral Bailout During Transfemoral-Approach Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the rate and trend of vascular complications when placing a second arterial sheath in the contralateral femoral artery during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) unilaterally versus bilaterally. BACKGROUND: Vascular complications occur in approximately 5% to 8% of TAVR procedures. Many operators place a second arterial sheath in the contralateral femoral artery to perform aortic root angiography. The authors surmised that placing the second sheath ipsilateral and distal to the delivery sheath would be an easier option with similar safety. METHODS: The Cleveland Clinic Aortic Valve Center TAVR database was accessed, and data for patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR (TF-TAVR) from January 2014 to December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. The primary outcome was the rate of peripheral vascular complications. RESULTS: A total of 1,208 patients who underwent TF-TAVR were included in this study. One thousand seven patients (83.36%) underwent bilateral femoral access, and 201 patients (16.64%) underwent TF-TAVR using a unilateral femoral approach. Over the study duration, use of the unilateral access approach trended upward significantly, reaching 43.7% of total cases in 2017. A gradual decline in access site-related vascular complications was observed, from 13.7% in 2014 to 7.4% in 2017. After propensity-score matching, peripheral vascular complications were similar between bilateral access and unilateral access (10.8% vs. 8.6%) (p = 0.543). CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant decline in vascular complications from 2014 to 2017. Unilateral-access TF-TAVR provided similar safety compared with bilateral-access TF-TAVR and is a more accessible approach for managing access site-related complications and possibly achieving better patient satisfaction.

Geographic Trends, Patient Characteristics, and Outcomes of Infective Endocarditis Associated With Drug Abuse in the United States From 2002 to 2016.

Background There has been an increase in the prevalence of drug abuse (DA) in the national opioid epidemic. With increasing DA, there is an increased risk of infective endocarditis (IE). There are limited recent data evaluating national trends on the incidence and geographical distribution of DA-IE. We aim to investigate those numbers as well as the determinants of outcome in this patient population. Methods and Results Hospitalized patients with a primary or secondary diagnosis of IE based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Revisions (ICD-9, ICD-10) were included. We described the national and geographical trends in DA-IE. We also compared DA-IE patients' characteristics and outcomes to those with IE, but without associated drug abuse (non-DA-IE) using Poisson regression models. Incidence of DA-IE has nearly doubled between 2002 and 2016 All US regions were affected, and the Midwest had the highest increase in DA-IE hospitalizations (annual percent change=4.9%). Patients with DA-IE were younger, more commonly white males, poorer, had fewer comorbidities, and were more likely to have human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C, concomitant alcohol abuse, and liver disease. Their length of stay was longer (9 versus 7 days; P<0.001) and were more likely to undergo cardiac surgery (7.8% versus 6.2%; P<0.001), but their inpatient mortality was lower (6.4% versus 9.1%; P<0.001). Conclusions DA-IE is rising at an alarming rate in the United States. All regions of the United States are affected, with the Midwest having the highest increase in rate. Young-adult, poor, white males were the most affected.

Outcomes of patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation and congestive heart failure.

OBJECTIVES: A substantial number of patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and congestive heart failure (CHF) are medically managed without undergoing corrective surgery. We sought to assess the characteristics and outcomes of CHF patients who underwent tricuspid valve surgery (TVS), compared with those who did not. METHODS: Retrospective observational study involving 2556 consecutive patients with severe TR from the Cleveland Clinic Echocardiographic Database. Cardiac transplant patients or those without CHF were excluded. Survival difference between patients who were medically managed versus those who underwent TVS was compared using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify variables associated with poor outcomes. RESULTS: Among a total of 534 patients with severe TR and CHF, only 55 (10.3%) patients underwent TVS. Among the non-surgical patients (n=479), 30% (n=143) had an identifiable indication for TVS. At 38 months, patients who underwent TVS had better survival than those who were medically managed (62% vs 35%; p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, advancing age (HR: 1.23; 95% CI 1.12 to 1.35 per 10-year increase in age), moderate (HR: 1.39; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.90) and severe (HR: 2; 95% CI 1.40 to 2.80) right ventricular dysfunction were associated with higher mortality. TVS was associated with lower mortality (HR: 0.44; 95% CI 0.27 to 0.71). CONCLUSION: Although corrective TVS is associated with better outcomes in patients with severe TR and CHF, a substantial number of them continue to be medically managed. However, since the reasons for patients not being referred to surgery could not be ascertained, further randomised studies are needed to validate our findings before clinicians can consider surgical referral for these patients.