Echocardiography for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides advanced cardiopulmonary life support for patients in cardiac and/or respiratory failure. Echocardiography provides essential diagnostic and anatomic information prior to ECMO initiation, allows for safe and efficient ECMO cannula positioning, guides optimization of flow, provides a modality for rapid troubleshooting and patient evaluation, and facilitates decision-making for eventual weaning of ECMO support. Currently, guidelines for echocardiographic assessment in this clinical context are lacking. In this review, we provide an overview of echocardiographic considerations for advanced imagers involved in the care of these complex patients. We focus predominately on new cannulas and complex cannulation techniques, including a special focus on double lumen cannulas and a section discussing indirect left ventricular venting. Echocardiography is tremendously valuable in providing optimal care in these challenging clinical situations. It is imperative for imaging physicians to understand the pertinent anatomic considerations, the often complicated physiological and hemodynamic context, and the limitations of the imaging modality.

Codeployment of a percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair device and a ventriculoseptal defect occluder device to address complex mitral regurgitation with leaflet perforation.

An 80-year-old male with severe, complex mitral regurgitation (MR) after recent transcatheter aortic valve replacement presented in heart failure for percutaneous mitral valve repair and possible tricuspid valve repair. Transesopheageal echocardiography (TEE) demonstrated mixed Carpentier Types 1 and 2 components with annular dilation, two leaflet perforations, and excessive leaflet motion (P2 flail). There were three distinct MR jets appreciated reflecting a central coaptation defect and two posterior mitral valve leaflet perforations emanating from a cystic dilatation. Under TEE guidance transseptal puncture and percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair was performed with a MitraClip XTR device (Abbott, IL). A 10 mm Amplatzer Muscular VSD Occluder (Abbott, Abbott Park, IL) was deployed to close one of the perforations on the posterior leaflet with a significant reduction in MR severity. Attempts at crossing the remaining defect were unsuccessful and the procedure was concluded. The patient recovered uneventfully and transthoracic echocardiography on postoperative day (POD) 1 and again on POD 34 demonstrated normal systolic dominance on pulmonary venous Doppler interrogation, mild to moderate MR, and a mean transvalvular gradient of 5 mmHg. Both devices appeared firmly attached and stable. This is the first documented use of a VSD occluder device in this clinical scenario. Management of complex MR with an approach combining edge-to-edge repair for a central coaptation defect and leaflet flail with codeployment of a VSD occluder device to address a perforated leaflet is feasible and can achieve durable results.

Fusion imaging during balloon mitral valvulopasty: First experience.

The EchoNavigator (EchoNav, Philips, The Netherlands) is a tool that fuses live X-ray with three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) images allowing for enhanced precision and accuracy during interventional cardiac procedures. We present the first case of EchoNav utilization during balloon mitral valvuloplasty using the newest version (EchoNav 3.0.2). The benefits of the EchoNav application include improved procedural precision and safety due to improved demonstration of the relationship between the interventional equipment and neighboring cardiac structures.

Use of echocardiography as an essential tool for targeted transcatheter biopsy of cardiac masses.

Echocardiography has emerged as an essential tool to guide targeted, transcatheter biopsy of cardiac masses. Options for imaging include transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiography and intracardiac echocardiography, with appropriate use being dictated by specific patient characteristics and institutional experience. The authors present a case of three-dimensional (3-D) transesophageal echocardiography-guided transcatheter biopsy of a right ventricular mass and review the current use of echocardiography to guide these procedures.

The first 10 years of the American Board of Vascular Medicine.

The American Board of Vascular Medicine (ABVM) was conceived through the Society for Vascular Medicine and this year will complete 10 years of certifying physicians who practice vascular medicine and endovascular medicine. The value of certification to our physicians, patients, and field cannot be understated. This paper reviews the highlights of the test development process, quality assurance measures, and management of these high stakes examinations.

Endovascular Repair of an Ascending Aorta Dissection After Self-expanding TAVR by Suprasternal Approach.

Management of rare ascending aortic complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains a poorly defined area of knowledge. Furthermore, because most patients undergoing TAVR are at intermediate to high surgical risk, the treatment of such complications often requires endovascular approaches. Herein, we present a novel technique of endovascular ascending aorta stent graft delivery from the innominate artery for the treatment of a type A aortic dissection after self-expandable TAVR implantation, specifically addressing the landing of the aortic stent within the crown of the TAVR valve.

Constrictive Pericarditis Presenting as Isolated Ascites.

Constrictive pericarditis is a rare cause of right-sided heart failure secondary to a stiff, non-compliant pericardium. Clinical presentation can vary considerably and requires a high suspicion for diagnosis. A 31-year-old male presented to the emergency department with complaints of abdominal distension. An abdominal ultrasound revealed large volume ascites; thus, it was initially suspected he had underlying cirrhosis. However, an echocardiogram revealed a diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis. It's important for clinicians to consider constrictive pericarditis in a patient presenting with unexplained right-sided heart failure.

Initial Experiences with the MitraClip G4: Review of the Novel Device Features.

OBJECTIVE: Percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair is an evolving procedure with increasing indications for use. The MitraClip™ G4 is the newest device with 4 device options, each with distinct characteristics. While the NTR and XTR clips have been in use, the G4 adds 2 new wider clips with additional features, the NTW and XTW. METHODS: We reviewed 26 cases employing the MitraClip G4 at our institution from November 2019 to March 2020. RESULTS: The NTR, XTR, NTW, and XTW clips were used in 3 (11.5%), 0 (0.0%), 16 (61.5%), and 11 (42.3%) cases, respectively. Median mitral regurgitation grade was reduced from 4+ to 1+, though 7 (27%) cases had 2+ residual mitral regurgitation. CONCLUSIONS: The new G4 device includes simplified instructions for use, the option of a wider clip, controlled gripper actuation, and potential left atrial pressure monitoring. The newest MitraClip G4 device allows for potential improved treatment options for patients with mitral regurgitation.

Snare-Assisted Delivery for Ascending Endovascular Repair of Acute Type A Dissection.

Endovascular stenting of the ascending aorta has been described for various aortic pathologies, including type A dissection in patients who are prohibitive risk for open surgery. Endovascular treatment of ascending aortic pathology poses unique anatomic and technical challenges related to aortic morphology. Herein, we present a novel technique of endovascular ascending stent graft delivery from a transfemoral approach for treatment of an acute type A dissection, utilizing a snare-guided deployment technique to facilitate favorable device deployment.

Successful Mechanical Aspiration of Embolized Vessel Fragment During TAVR With Penumbra Indigo Cat Rx Catheter.

An 81-year-old female with severe aortic valve stenosis underwent TAVR using the right femoral approach. Shortly after successful deployment of a 29 mm Evolut Pro valve (Medtronic), the patient became hypotensive and ST depressions were noted on telemetry. Selective left coronary angiography revealed coronary embolism to the left anterior descending/ first diagonal bifurcation. Mechanical aspiration was performed and a small piece of debris was retrieved. We believe it was a broken-off fragment of the femoral artery that migrated on the tip of the TAVR delivery system. This is the first reported case of such a complication.

A clinical and echocardiographic case report of carcinoid-related valvular heart disease.

BACKGROUND: Carcinoid syndrome is a rare disease caused by malignant neuroendocrine neoplasms. When vasoactive substances enter the systemic circulation, the triad of cutaneous flushing, bronchospasm, and diarrhoea often characterize carcinoid syndrome. Rarely, carcinoid syndrome can progress to involve the cardiac system, a condition known as carcinoid heart disease, often affecting right-sided valvular structures. CASE SUMMARY: Here, we present a case of malignant carcinoid syndrome with associated carcinoid heart disease in a 63-year-old female. The diagnosis of her dual regurgitant and stenotic valvular disease is detailed, with accompanying two- and three-dimensional echocardiographic images demonstrating the patient's complex tricuspid dysfunction. DISCUSSION: Carcinoid heart disease encompasses a rare but important subset of valvular dysfunction caused by circulating vasoactive substances. Diagnosis utilizing serum studies, computed tomography scans, and echocardiography can help expedite the diagnosis and treatment of such rare conditions, and assist in the avoidance of complications. Despite its relatively well-recognized clinical presentation, carcinoid syndrome and its associated heart disease still remains a challenging condition to manage and treat, often requiring the input of several subspecialties to treat the condition appropriately.

Massive pulmonary embolism in a COVID-19 patient: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial injury is associated with excess mortality in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections, and the mechanisms of injury are diverse. Coagulopathy associated with this infection may have unique cardiovascular implications. CASE SUMMARY: We present a case of 62-year-old male who presented after experiencing syncope and cardiac arrest. Given the clinical presentation and electrocardiographic findings, there was concern for acute coronary syndrome. However, coronary angiogram did not reveal significant coronary obstruction. Due to the unclear nature of his presentation, a bedside echocardiogram was rapidly performed and was indicative of right ventricular strain. Due to these findings, a pulmonary angiogram was performed that revealed massive pulmonary embolism. He successfully underwent catheter-directed thrombolysis and, after a prolonged hospital stay, was discharged home on lifelong anticoagulation. DISCUSSION: The impact of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) on the cardiovascular system has been prominent and multifaceted. COVID-19 can have wide-ranging effects on the cardiovascular system due to coagulopathy with resultant venous and arterial thrombo-embolism. Due to the critical condition of many patients affected by COVID-19, imaging for thrombo-embolic events is often delayed. With the use of bedside echocardiogram, observation of right ventricular strain may be critical in raising suspicion for pulmonary embolism, especially when atypical features are noted on electrocardiogram.

Intravascular ultrasound use for stent optimization during percutaneous coronary intervention in a toddler with post-surgical stenosis after coronary reimplantation for ALCAPA.

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an uncommon procedure in the pediatric population, and the use of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) to guide stent optimization in this setting is not well described. We present a case of a 22-month old female who developed left main coronary stenosis following surgical correction of anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA). PCI was pursued, and with the use of IVUS, stent placement was determined to be optimal. Given the limited data on the use of IVUS in PCI for children, we discuss the unique applications of IVUS, drug-eluting stents, and future clinical concerns following management of post-surgical stenosis following ALCAPA repair. 〈Learning objective: Percutaneous coronary intervention is a rare procedure in the pediatric population, and the use of intravascular ultrasound to optimize stent placement is not well described in this setting. Intravascular ultrasound may allow for more precise stent placement and may be useful during acute and long-term management of pediatric patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.〉.

ST Elevations in the Era of COVID-19.

Myocardial injury, represented by elevated cardiac enzymes, has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created unique challenges in approaching patients with acute ST-segment changes. We describe two distinct cases of ST elevation on electrocardiogram occurring in patients with COVID-19 and review important diagnostic and management considerations for the front-line clinician.

Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy Precipitated by COVID-19 and Influenza A Coinfection.

Myocardial injury is associated with excess mortality in severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections, but the mechanisms of injury are diverse. We describe a case of stress-induced cardiomyopathy in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A coinfection. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Total Endovascular Arch Repair Using Needle Fenestration and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

There remains a clinical need for endovascular repair of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch in patients who are prohibitively high risk for open surgical repair. Herein we present a case of a total endovascular arch repair by means of a novel technique for graft fenestration using a trans-septal needle with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Although the use of trans-septal needle fenestration use has been described, the use in arch fenestrations has not. We present this case as an example of techniques that may be useful in the expanding landscape of endovascular ascending and arch repair.

Suprasternal Approach to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in a Complex Congenital Pediatric Patient Presenting With Cardiogenic Shock.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) offers well established benefit for adults with severe aortic stenosis, although applications in the pediatric population remain limited. We describe a case of a 15-year-old male with complex congenital heart disease presenting with cardiogenic shock in the setting of mixed severe aortic stenosis (AS) and severe aortic insufficiency (AI). Self-expanding TAVR was performed via suprasternal approach with robust clinical improvement. At one month follow up, he had resolution of clinical heart failure with improvement in ejection fraction and no symptoms of valvulopathy. To our knowledge, there have been no described cases of suprasternal TAVR in a pediatric patient.

Adaptive remodeling of hypoplastic hemodialysis fistulas salvaged with angioplasty.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine whether immature hemodialysis fistulas undergo flow-induced adaptive remodeling after successful percutaneous angioplasty. BACKGROUND: Approximately 50% of radiocephalic fistulas remain immature after surgery and cannot be used for hemodialysis. Small fistulas with anastomotic inflow stenoses may undergo salvage angioplasty, but the time course of outward remodeling after successful treatment has not been defined. METHODS: Thirty-two of 39 patients (82%) with inaccessible, hypoplastic radiocephalic fistulas underwent attempted salvage angioplasty of inflow stenoses involving the arteriovenous anastomoses. Twenty patients experienced salvage of their fistulas and successfully underwent hemodialysis (51%). RESULTS: Eleven patients had serial angiographic procedures, which allowed paired sequential quantitative angiographic measurements of the fistulas to be made during a median follow-up of 200 days (range 5-2,298 days). Fistula diameters increased from 4.5 +/- 1.3 mm to 8.0 +/- 2.5 mm (mean +/- S.D.). The mean growth of the fistulas was 1.0 +/- 0.9 mm per year. CONCLUSIONS: The mechanism of adaptive remodeling transforms nonmaturing hypoplastic autogenous fistulas into functioning accessible dialysis accesses after successful percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of inflow anastomotic stenoses.

Bayes Factor Meta-Analysis of the Mortality Claim for Peripheral Paclitaxel-Eluting Devices.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to quantify the probability of increased mortality with paclitaxel compared with control in a dataset of 28 randomized controlled trials. BACKGROUND: Analysis of data from 28 randomized controlled trials using conventional null-hypothesis statistical testing has produced the unexpected finding of a 68% increase in mortality at 2 years and a 93% increase at 3 to 5 years after using paclitaxel-eluting balloons and stents to treat femoropopliteal arterial disease, but no biologic explanation for increased mortality has been identified. METHODS: A Bayesian sequential model was developed to quantify the probability of increased mortality 1, 2, and 3 to 5 years after treatment, and p values were replaced with meta-analytic Bayes factors (BFs), which provide decisive evidence at values >100 and very strong evidence at values of 32 to 100. RESULTS: The evidence for increased mortality at 1 year (BF = 0.02), 2 years (BF = 8.5), and 3 to 5 years (BF = 14.6) was less than conclusive. All-cause mortality at 1 year was similar between the paclitaxel and control arms at 1 year (odds ratio: 0.92; 95% Bayesian credible interval: 0.53 to 1.53) and 2 years (odds ratio: 1.23; 95% Bayesian credible interval: 0.84 to 1.71) but was increased at 3 to 5 years (odds ratio: 1.43; 95% Bayesian credible interval: 1.01 to 1.90). CONCLUSIONS: This study finds some support for increased mortality after using paclitaxel-eluting devices in femoropopliteal arterial disease, but the evidence is not unequivocal and may not sway skeptical investigators concerned about causation, unreported studies, or the post hoc analysis of trials underpowered for mortality.