bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 14213: Injury Characteristics of Chest Compressions in a Swine Model of Infant Asphyxial Cardiac Arrest Using Either 1.5 inch or 1/3 Anterior-Posterior Diameter Depth Targets
Authors: Salcido David D , Koller Allison C , Fink Ericka L , Berg Robert A , Menegazzi James J
Published: December 2021

Background:
Current AHA guidelines for the delivery of chest compressions (CC) for infants and children are largely consensus based, and recommended depths of 1.5 inches or 1/3 anterior-posterior chest diameter (APD). It is unclear whether these have equal potential for injury.

Objectives:
We sought to examine and compare injury characteristics of CC delivered at 1.5 inches or 1/3 APD in an infant-sized model of asphyxial OHCA.

Methods:
Thirty-six juvenile swine weighing 10.6kg +/- 0.84 (approximating the 50
th
percentile for a 12-month-old) were anesthetized, paralyzed, intubated, and mechanically ventilated (FiO2 21%). APD was measured and by two investigators via a sliding T-square. After instrumentation, the endotracheal tube was manually occluded to induce asphyxia, and occlusion was maintained for 9 minutes. Animals with an organized rhythm after 8 minutes 45 seconds of asphyxia received a single, 3-second transthoracic shock to induce ventricular fibrillation. At 9 minutes, each was then randomized to receive CC with a depth of 1.5 inches (Group 1) or 1/3 APD (Group 2), both with a rate of 100 per minute. ALS drugs were administered after 13 minutes, followed by initial defibrillation attempt at 14 minutes. Resuscitation continued until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) or 20 minutes of failed resuscitation. Survivors were sacrificed with KCl after 20 minutes of observation. Veterinary staff blinded to group assignment conducted necropsies to assess lung injury, rib fracture, hemothorax, airway bleeding, great vessel dissection, and heart/liver/spleen contusion. Characteristics were compared via Chi-Squared test or Mann-Whitney U-test using an alpha = 0.05.

Results:
Group 1 had n=18 and Group 2 had n=18 animals. Mean (SD) APD overall was 5.58 (0.22) inches, yielding a mean 1/3 APD depth of 1.86 inches. APD did not differ between groups. ROSC rates did not differ between groups (Group 1: 66.7% vs Group 2: 83.33%; p = 0.248. No injury characteristics differed significantly between groups. Airway bleeding rates were noteworthy though not different between groups (Group 1: 18.8% vs Group 2: 42.1%; p = 0.219).

Conclusions:
In a swine model of infant OHCA and resuscitation, both CC depth strategies had similar injury characteristics.
Abstract 14493: Rise in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Cases in Chicago in 2020
Authors: Khosla Shaveta , Del Rios Marina , Kotini-shah Pavitra , Bunney E Bradshaw B , Campbell Teri , Markul Eddie , Tataris Katie , Weber Joseph , Vanden Hoek Terry
Published: December 2021

Background:
Italy, France and New York City have reported an increase in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of our study was to assess the effect of COVID-19 on OHCA cases in Chicago.

Method:
Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) database was used. Bivariate analysis was conducted to assess changes in demographic and other characteristics. We excluded the cases that occurred in a healthcare facility or a nursing home. We compared the cases reported in 2020 to 2019 (and prior years). ArcGIS was used to geocode incident addresses and to show the temporal distribution by community areas. Bivariate analysis was done using chi-square tests.

Results:
A total of 3221 OHCA cases were reported in Chicago in 2020, which is 31.5% higher than those reported in 2019 (n=2450 cases). This increase was higher than what has been noticed historically (for instance, the increase from 2018 to 2019 was only 17%). There was an increase in Hispanic OHCA cases (17.3% in 2020 vs. 13.5% in 2019, p<0.01) but a decrease in White cases (20.5% vs. 23.1%). The cases in 2020 were less likely to be reported at public location (22% vs. 26%, p<0.001) or have shockable rhythm (10% vs. 13%, p=0.0002). There was a marked increase in those that were declared dead in the field in 2020 (37% vs. 27%, p<0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in age distribution, gender, witnessed arrest (49% vs. 51%, p=0.07) or bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (BCPR) (23% vs. 22%, p=0.3).

Conclusion:
A better understanding of the causes of the excess cardiac arrest numbers will be important to help plan and better prepare for future public health interventions. The effect of COVID-19 on OHCA survival needs to be examined further in future studies.
Abstract 16747: Rapidly Lethal Dilated Cardiomyopathy Secondary To Generalized Arterial Calcification Of Infancy
Authors: C. Pantoja Laura , Rodriguez Vazquez del Rey Maria del Mar , Medina Cano Maria Teresa , Carrero Castaño Alejandro , Monserrat Lorenzo , Perin Francesca
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
A previously healthy 3-month-old infant presented with cardiorespiratory arrest, from which she was successfully resuscitated. A dilated cardiomyopathy with severely depressed systolic function was diagnosed. ECG showed high voltage QRS complexes and generalized alteration of repolarization. In the following 12 hours, she suffered 2 other cardiac arrests, recuperated with defibrillation. Hemodinamic stability was achieved but brain death was diagnosed 36 hours after the onset of symptoms. Autopsy showed striking calcification of the right and left coronary arteries, with narrowing of the arterial lumen, causing extensive subendocardial infarction. Calcification also affected the aorta, pulmonary arteries, thyroid, kidney and other splanchnic arteries. Generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI) was diagnosed and a genetic study found two biallelic variants in ABCC6 gene: p.Arg1114Cys and p.Trp38Ser, both previously described in elastic pseudoxanthoma (PXE), but not in GACI. Genotyping of the healthy parents confirmed genetic segregation with biallelic variants.

Discussion:
GACI is an extremely rare genetic disease characterized by widespread arterial calcification and narrowing of large and medium-sized vessels. The usual clinical presentation is heart failure in fetal life or in the first months of infancy. In most cases it is lethal, with death occurring within a few hours or days after the onset of symptoms, although clinical involvement is highly variable and cases with long survival have been described. GACI is an autosomal recessive disease secondary to biallelic variants in the ENPP1 gene (67% of cases) and in the ABCC6 gene (9%). The variants found in our patient had not been previously described in GACI, just in PXE, a much milder disease with usually normal lifespan. This case confirms that both entities reflect two extremes of a clinical spectrum of ectopic calcification instead of two different disorders. The aim of presenting this case is to remind clinicians of this rare etiology in neonates or infants with dilated cardiomyopathy. In case of death, autopsy should always be requested. When this condition is diagnosed, genetic study will be positive in 75% of cases, allowing prenatal counseling.
Abstract 16848: The Effect Of Rhabdomyomas On Underlying Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Young Krista , Staron Michelle , Khan Rabia S
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
Term male infant born to SARS-CoV-2 positive mother with infant testing negative. ECG for perinatal bradycardia revealed ventricular pre-excitation. Echocardiogram showed asymmetric LV hypertrophy with prominent trabeculations, subaortic narrowing with no pressure gradient, and normal biventricular systolic function. Rapid increase in RV pressure estimates and NT-proBNP in first week if life concerning for diastolic dysfunction. Anti-arrhythmic therapy initiated for SVT with subsequent resolution. Later, developed progressive LV dilation and systolic dysfunction. Myocardium showed regions resembling non-compaction and others concerning for infiltrative process. Cardiac MRI showed no obvious tumors, but rhabdomyomas could not be ruled out given similar appearance to myocardium. Due to worsening heart failure, everolimus therapy initiated to target potential rhabdomyomas while awaiting genetic testing for tuberous sclerosis. Subaortic narrowing and LV hypertrophy improved within days, and LV appearance became more consistent with non-compaction. Genetic testing revealed a TSC2 gene variant consistent with tuberous sclerosis. Systolic function improved, and patient discharged on afterload reduction. Echocardiogram 6 months post-discharge shows continued LV dilation and mild systolic dysfunction.

Discussion:
Although outflow obstruction and arrhythmias are common with cardiac rhabdomyomas and can cause dysfunction, our patient developed progressive dysfunction in the absence of outflow tract gradient or prolonged arrhythmia. As rhabdomyomas subsided, it became clearer that he had an underlying cardiomyopathy. We suspect that rhabdomyomas in the setting of abnormal myocardium led to abnormalities in myocardial contractility and compliance causing combined systolic and diastolic dysfunction. After complete resolution of rhabdomyomas, cardiac function has improved. However, he continues to have ventricular dilation and mild dysfunction attributable to cardiomyopathy. It is unlikely that mother’s SARS-CoV-2 infection played a role as infant tested negative and clinical picture was not consistent with myocarditis.
Abstract 16851: Simultaneous Mitral Valve Replacement, Aortic Valve Replacement, Tricuspid Valve Repair, Left Atrial Appendage Ligation, Maze Procedure And Cabg In A 57-year Old Female With History Of Tavr And Severe Mitral Annular Calcification
Authors: Lak Hassan Mehmood , Cohen Joshua , Iskandar Jean Pierre , Gad Mohamed , Chawla Sanchit , Yasmin Farah , Mustafa Ahmad , Unai Shinya , Cho Leslie
Published: December 2021

Background:
Open heart surgery is preferred for patients with multiple valvular issues with conflicting physiology.

Case:
A 57-year-old female with a past medical history of Type I Diabetes Mellitus complicated by kidney & pancreatic transplant in 1999 s/p failed kidney transplant in 2016 subsequently back on dialysis, aortic stenosis leading to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) in 2016 who presented to the hospital for profound cardiogenic shock and was found to have severe tricuspid regurgitation, severe mitral stenosis secondary to mitral annular calcification with severe concentric hypertrophy of left ventricle.

Decision Making:
Her conflicting right and left heart physiology due to Tricuspid Regurgitation and Mitral Stenosis was very difficult to manage medically. She was not deemed a candidate for a heart transplant due to a history of a failed kidney transplant. She underwent surgery which included Mitral Valve Replacement, explant TAVR and repeat aortic valve replacement, Tricuspid repair, Left atrial appendage ligation and maze procedure, and CABG x1 with saphenous vein graft to PDA. She stayed on V-V extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) post-operatively and was discharged on post-operative Day # 14.

Conclusion:
Severe tricuspid Regurgitation & coexisting mitral stenosis pose a dilemma for medical management and only feasible option is surgery which could be extremely challenging.
Abstract 16935: A Rare Case Of COVID-19 Induced Thrombus-in-Transit Going Through A PFO In A Pregnant Patient
Authors: Manla Yosef , Aljabery Yazan , Azeem Haris , bhatnagar gopal , Gobolos Laszlo , Alsindi Fahad , Bafadel Ahmed
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
A 42-year-old female in her 24
th
week of pregnancy was admitted to an outside hospital with respiratory failure due to COVID-19 pneumonia and was managed with Remdesivir, Dexamethasone, and pharmacological DVT prophylaxis. Her chest CT showed a massive PE. Due to instability, a cesarean section was necessitated, which resulted in delivering a stillborn baby. Two days later, she developed a severe circulatory shock with acute renal failure, not responding to conventional vasopressors/inotropic therapy. VA-ECMO was inserted for hemodynamic stabilization and the patient was transferred to our advanced ICU for further management. Upon arrival, the clinical picture was suggestive of COVID-19- induced thrombotic storm. Furthermore, the patient underwent several imaging studies which showed additional de-novo thromboembolic events in the brain (stroke), pulmonary circuit (PE), and portal circuit (hepatic thrombosis), which were managed medically. A transesophageal echocardiogram was done and revealed a large highly mobile echogenic structure, measuring up to 40 mm, crossing a patent foramen ovale (PFO) highly suggestive of thrombus in transit, in addition to the findings of significantly dilated RA and RV cavities (Figure 1 A, B). The team decided to perform an urgent surgical excision of that highly mobile thrombus accompanied by PFO closure to prevent catastrophic strokes. The thrombus in transit was extracted and was consistent with prior obtained imaging (Figure 1 C, D). Her postoperative course was uncomplicated. With advanced ICU and multidisciplinary care, she was finally discharged home hemodynamically stable on anticoagulation with Apixaban.

Discussion:
COVID-19 induced thrombus in-transit crossing a PFO is a rare finding and carries a high risk of paradoxical embolism. Multidisciplinary approach in integrating clinical and imaging findings can further help in a timely-manner decision making which improves patient's outcome.
Abstract 17034: Acute Ventricular Septal Rupture Management By The Cardiac Intensivist
Authors: Nguyen Khoa , Kolseth Clint , Mukundan Srini V
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
A 59-year-old male presented with chest pain and electrocardiogram showed convex ST elevations in the inferior leads. He underwent emergent coronary angiography revealing a 99% mid-distal right coronary artery thrombotic occlusion followed by placement of a drug-eluting stent. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed a 2.5 cm muscular ventricular septal rupture (VSR) with a calculated pulmonary-systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) of 2.4 in the setting of normal right and left ventricular systolic function. In the intensive care unit, he still had nausea and chest discomfort, along with acute kidney injury and elevated lactate levels. A trial of aggressive medical management was pursued to avoid emergent cardiac surgery. We placed an arterial line and initiated afterload reduction with sodium nitroprusside, utilizing serial bedside TTEs to monitor his Qp/Qs, which trended down to 1.8 over the subsequent 12 hours followed by normalization of lactate and kidney function. His symptoms resolved and he remained stable while transitioning to oral vasodilators. After four weeks of medical therapy, he underwent timely surgical repair of his VSR and discharged home.

Discussion:
Ventricular septal rupture is a serious complication of inferior myocardial infarctions (MI). From a cardiac intensivist perspective, we maintained the patient at a euvolemic state while using systemic vasodilators to divert the left-to-right shunt flow and augment his systemic flow. We want to highlight the utility of serial bedside TTEs to guide therapy for VSR (Figure 1). Fortunately, our patient did not require mechanical circulatory support to maintain his hemodynamics. We also discussed with our cardiothoracic surgeons about the optimal timing for surgical repair. The guidelines suggest urgent VSR repair following an MI; however, the exact timing is debatable given the fragility of the inflamed post-MI myocardium and better surgical outcomes with maturation of the VSR.
Abstract 17057:
Tropheryma Whipplei
Endocarditis: A Diagnosis In Hindsight
Authors: Johnstone Liam , Mehmood Zia , Porter Jo
Published: December 2021

Description of case:
We report a case of
Tropheryma whipplei
endocarditis, a rare cause of blood-culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNIE). Due to its rarity and lack of availability of diagnostic tests in district hospitals, the diagnosis remains challenging. The objective of this case report is to increase physician awareness of this pathogen. A 61-year-old man presented to the Emergency Department with central chest pain at rest. A 12-lead ECG demonstrated ST- segment depression in V4-V6 leads, and his serial troponin levels were raised. He was commenced on treatment for acute coronary syndrome and transferred to the Coronary Care Unit. An echocardiogram showed a 15mm x 15mm vegetation in the aortic valve with mild aortic regurgitation. His initial microbiology workup, which included two sets of blood cultures (pre-antibiotics), MRSA screen & COVID-19 PCR, was negative. He was transferred to a cardiothoracic centre four days later. Pre-operative CT coronary angiogram showed severe three vessel coronary artery disease. He underwent triple coronary artery by-pass grafts and tissue aortic valve replacement. During early post-op recovery, he had fever episodes and an elevated C-reactive protein of 280 mg/L but normal white cell counts. He was treated with intravenous Tazocin for hospital-acquired pneumonia and discharged on doxycycline. Two weeks post-discharge, he had a positive 16S/18S PCR for
Tropheryma whipplei
on molecular analysis of the aortic valve. He was treated for Whipples endocarditis with a 4-week course of IV Ceftriaxone, followed by a 12-month course of oral Cotrimoxazole. The patient has reported doing well since the surgery.

Discussion:
Molecular assay with PCR of the heart valve is the mainstay of diagnosing Whipple’s endocarditis. There have been 5 previously reported cases of Whipple’s endocarditis in the United Kingdom in our knowledge. It is likely under-reported because of a reliance on tissue diagnosis. Preceding intestinal manifestations and arthralgia should raise its clinical suspicion for timely workup. Physician awareness of Whipple’s Endocarditis is paramount in investigating for this pathogen.
Abstract 17062: Reversible Golimumab Induced Cardiomyopathy - First Reported Case Report
Authors: Tanveer Ud Din Mian , Nestasie Michael , Balacko John , Alpert Craig
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
An 80 year old female with medical history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic atrial fibrillation presented with four weeks of lower extremity edema and dyspnea. Notably, she had also been taking Golimumab for 6 months for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Vital signs on presentations were: Temp:99 F, HR: 140bpm, BP: 105/64, oxygen saturation of 88% on room air. Physical exam revealed crackles at the mid lower lung fields bilaterally and 2+ lower extremity edema. EKG showed new ST inversions in lead 1, avF and V2. Troponin T was elevated to 0.11 ng/ml and proBNP was 21,246 pg/ml. Chest X Ray showed cardiomegaly with diffuse alveolar opacities. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) revealed severely reduced left ventricular systolic function with LVEF of 25-29%, left ventricular regional wall hypokinesis and mildly reduced right ventricular systolic function. All findings were new compared to her last TTE 3 months prior, which showed preserved biventricular systolic function. Coronary angiography revealed no coronary artery disease. The patient was started on intravenous furosemide, and her home beta blocker and ARB were resumed. The patient’s Golimumab was discontinued given prior reports of TNF alpha inhibitor induced cardiomyopathy. Over the ensuing days, she was aggressively diuresed with improvement in oxygenation and ultimately discharged home. Three months after discontinuation of Golimumab, repeat TTE showed normalization of biventricular systolic function.

Discussion:
TNF alpha inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of chronic immune mediated inflammatory diseases. Several TNF alpha inhibitors have been associated with cardiomyopathy, however there remains a paucity of evidence regarding cardiotoxicity with Golimumab. We now present, to our knowledge, the first reported case of reversible heart failure due to Golimumab in an 80 year old woman with RA. Golimumab, like other TNF alpha inhibitors, represents a historic advancement in the treatment of immune mediated inflammatory diseases. However, our case implicates this innovative drug in cardiotoxicity similar to other TNF alpha inhibitors. Further prospective studies are needed to establish a stronger correlation between Golimumab and cardiotoxicity.
Abstract 17074: Primary Cardiac Sarcoma In Elderly Patient And Need For High Index Of Suspicion
Authors: Ahmed Mohammad , Maucione Carly , Long Nathaniel , Wilson Ryan
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
Primary cardiac tumors are rare with an incidence between 0.0017 and 0.2%. Most cardiac tumors are benign such as myxomas, lipomas, and papillary fibroelastomas. Primary malignant cardiac tumors are even more uncommon, with cardiac sarcomas being the most common. We present a case of an 87-year old female who presented initially for progressive shortness of breath and concern for potential endocarditis vs intra-cardiac thrombus noted on outside hospital transthoracic echocardiogram. Blood cultures were negative, no leukocytosis or sequelae of infection were noted. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) noted a large lesion attached to the anterior mitral leaflet, with additional lesions noted on the left atrial free wall just medial to the right sided pulmonary veins. Obstruction of mitral inflow was noted with a mean gradient through the mitral valve of 5mmHg. Cardiac MRI was performed for further delineation of lesions and based on tissue characteristics were felt to be thrombus (Figure 1). Hypercoagulability workup was negative, and there was no improvement in lesion size with systemic anticoagulation. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted for surgical removal of the mass. Pre-operative cardiac catheterization showed multi-vessel obstructive coronary artery disease. It was also noted that the left circumflex artery appeared to supply blood into a discrete area in the left atrium. The patient was ultimately taken for surgical removal. Surgical pathology demonstrated primary high grade cardiac sarcoma.

Discussion:
The rarity and heterogeneity of primary cardiac tumors, along with many potential mimickers pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. This, combined with the location and aggressive nature of the tumors, make them difficult to treat and incur a high mortality rate. This highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion and keeping a broad differential when evaluating intra-cardiac masses.
Abstract 17083: Hunting For Clot: Strokes In Patients With Cardiac Amyloid
Authors: Kyrouac Douglas , Agusala Kartik
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
A 76-year-old female with history of amyloid light chain (AL) cardiac amyloidosis and prior stroke presented with acute bilateral leg weakness. MRI of the brain revealed subacute infarcts in the right basal ganglia and precentral gyrus as well as chronic left cerebellar infarctions. CT angiogram of the head and neck did not show any significant intracranial or carotid artery disease. All current and previous admission ECGs and telemetry showed sinus rhythm with no atrial arrhythmias. Transthoracic echocardiogram with bubble study noted LV ejection fraction of 62%, normal left atrial size and no evidence of an intracardiac shunt. Despite the lack of traditional indicators, a cardioembolic source was feared given the high risk of intracardiac thrombi in AL amyloid patients. A TEE was performed and confirmed a large left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus with severely reduced velocities and spontaneous echo contrast (Figure 1). The patient was started on apixaban for secondary stroke prevention.

Discussion:
Amyloid proteins deposit throughout heart tissue, distorting mechanical function and electric conduction resulting in reduced blood flow and a high risk of intracardiac thrombi that is 10 times that of nonamyloid patients. Patients with cardiac amyloidosis have a high prevalence of atrial arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, but remain at significant risk of thrombi even in the absence of these arrhythmias, ranging from 3-20%. Risk factors for clot include AL type amyloid and features of worsened hemodynamics such as LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction, elevated heart rates and lower systolic blood pressure. This case demonstrates the importance of aggressively “hunting” for intracardiac thrombi in amyloid patients presenting with stroke even without perceived risk factors, especially given the protective effect of starting anticoagulation.
Abstract 17117: Hyperhomocysteinemia Associated St Elevation Myocardial Infarction In A Young Male
Authors: Sheikh Omar , Mustard Jennifer , Osman Muhammad , Golwala Harsh
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
A 24-year-old male with a medical history of Crohn’s on mesalamine presented to the emergency room with crushing substernal chest pain at rest. Electrocardiogram revealed ST elevations in Lead V2-V5 (Figure-1a). He was taken emergently to the catheterization laboratory and had 100% thrombotic occlusion of his proximal left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) (Figure-1b). Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) confirmed the presence of soft atheromatous lipid-rich plaque in the proximal LAD with heavy thrombus burden (Figure-1c/d). He underwent aspiration thrombectomy and IVUS guided percutaneous coronary intervention with a 4.5 mm x 32 mm drug-eluting stent. Echocardiogram revealed an akinetic anterior wall with an ejection fraction of 35% without a patent foramen ovale. Hypercoagulable workup was initiated and showed a significantly elevated homocysteine level of 84.4 umol/L (normal:3.5-10.4). Family history, drug screen, hemoglobin A1C, and lipid profile were unremarkable.

Discussion:
The differential diagnosis in a young male presenting with a STEMI includes thromboembolism versus plaque rupture. IVUS showed clear evidence of a lipid-rich plaque demonstrating premature atherosclerotic vascular disease rather than a thromboembolic event. His most striking risk factor was hyperhomocysteinemia with a level of 84.4 umol/L. Elevations in homocysteine plasma concentration has been identified as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis due to its atherogenic and prothrombotic properties. To date lowering homocysteine levels with folate and additional therapies have not shown to reduce the risk of coronary disease. Our case stresses the importance of intravascular imaging, especially in atypical cases such as a young male presenting with a STEMI to differentiate plaque rupture versus thromboembolism. Further studies are needed to identify risk modifying therapies for hyperhomocysteinemia associated vascular disease.
Abstract 17228: Not Just Another Knick In The Wall: An Unusual Case Of Multiple Arterial Aneurysms
Authors: Amblihalli Vibha , Ray Ayita , Khalid Hafiz , pacifico luigi
Published: December 2021

Case Presentation:
47-year-old Liberian woman with a history of latent TB and no prior cardiac history presented with dyspnea, palpitations, and weight loss. She had fevers, tachycardia, and cervical lymphadenopathy. Cardiac exam showed widened pulse pressure, systolic and diastolic murmur, and features of heart failure. TTE showed dilated left ventricle with preserved ejection fraction, aortic root aneurysm compressing left atrium, severe aortic and mitral regurgitation, and moderate pericardial effusion with no tamponade. CT angiogram of neck, chest and abdomen showed right subclavian artery mycotic aneurysm, large left supraclavicular lymphadenopathy, multiple aortic arch, and descending thoracic aorta mycotic aneurysms. She underwent emergent surgical intervention. Intraoperative TEE revealed rupture of aortic root aneurysm into left ventricular outflow tract causing a fistula, perforated anterior mitral leaflet, and distortion of the left atrial wall. She underwent mitral and aortic tissue valve replacement, aortic root replacement, and a pericardial patch repair of the left atrial wall. Subsequently, she underwent right subclavian artery aneurysm resection, right carotid axillary bypass, and vertebral artery reimplantation. Aortic valve pathology was suggestive of endocarditis with negative cultures. Lymph node biopsy revealed non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation with no evidence of acid-fast bacilli, fungi, and malignancy. Autoimmune workup was negative. A PET CT showed post-surgical inflammatory changes with no evidence of malignancy.

Discussion:
We describe an unusual case of multiple large arterial aneurysms causing severe valvular insufficiency requiring emergent surgical intervention. The patient underwent extensive workup which was unrevealing. She was treated for subacute bacterial endocarditis and suspected Bechet’s disease. Thus, the quest for a definitive diagnosis continues to elude us.
Abstract 9056: The Association Between Thoracic Injuries Due to Chest Compression and Short-Term Prognosis in Patients With Non-traumatic Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Katasako Aya , Kawakami Shoji , Koga Hidenobu , Kitahara Kenichi , Komiya Keiichiro , Mizokami Komei , Yamada Tetsuhisa , Miura Nobutoshi , Inoue Shujiro
Published: December 2021

Background:
The current guidelines emphasize that high-quality chest compression is essential for improving the survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. However, it may lead to thoracic injuries which is a potential factor of poor prognosis.

Method:
Between June 2017 to July 2019, we collected Utstein-style data on 384 consecutive adult patients with non-traumatic OHCA who were transferred to our hospital. Full-body CT scan was performed and thoracic injuries were defined as rib fracture, sternum fracture, hemorrhagic pleural effusion, pneumothorax, sternum posterior bleeding, mediastinal hematoma, or mediastinal emphysema. We identified the predictors for thoracic injuries and evaluated the relationship between thoracic injuries and prognosis.

Results:
Patients with thoracic injuries (Group-T) were 234 (76%). The duration of chest compression in Group-T was 43 min, which was significantly longer than that in patients without thoracic injuries (Group-N, 32 min, p<0.001). ROC curve analysis identified a duration of chest compression of 35 minutes as the optimal cut off for predicting thoracic injuries (area under the curve 0.73). Multivariate analysis revealed that age (OR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.01-1.05, p=0.005) and duration of chest compression (OR: 1.07, 95%CI: 1.04-1.09, p<0.001) were independent predictors of thoracic injuries. The rate of obtaining return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), 30-day survival and favorable neurologic outcome were larger in Group-N than Group-T. In patients with achieving ROSC, Kaplan-Meier curves showed a significantly higher cumulative survival rates in Group-N compared to that in Group-T during follow-up of 30 days (Log-rank test p=0.009).

Conclusion:
Age and duration of chest compression were independent predictors for thoracic injuries due to chest compression in non-traumatic OHCA patients. Moreover, the presence of thoracic injuries was associated with poor short-term prognosis.
Abstract 9086: Sex Differences in the Association Between Bystander CPR and Survival for Patients With Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Ahn Kiok , McNally Bryan , Chan Paul
Published: December 2021

Background:
Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is associated with a better survival outcome in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, there may be cultural barriers in performing high-quality bystander CPR in women in some non-Western countries and the effect of bystander CPR on survival outcomes may differ by patients’ sex.

Methods:
Using data between 2012-2018 from a national OHCA registry from the Republic of Korea, we identified adult patients with OHCA of presumed cardiac etiology. The main exposures were bystander CPR and patients’ sex. The primary outcome was survival discharge and the secondary outcome was favorable neurological survival. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated the association between bystander CPR and survival, adjusted for patients’ age, sex, socio-economic status, year of arrest, witnessed arrest status, initial OHCA rhythm, location of arrest, urbanization level of arrest location, and type of bystander. The interaction between bystander CPR and sex was explicitly evaluated in the models.

Results:
Of 101,505 patients with OHCA in the cohort, 34,124 (33.6 %) were women and 67,381 (64.4 %) were men. Bystander CPR was performed on 18,481 (54.2%) women and 35,904 (53.3%) men (p=0.07). Unadjusted rates of survival discharge were 4.5% in women and 9.5 % in men (p<0.001), and rates of favorable neurological survival were 2.5% in women and 6.4% in men (p<0.001). In multivariable logistic regression models, there was a significant interaction (p=0.005) between bystander CPR and sex for survival to discharge, with an adjusted OR for bystander CPR of 1.16 (95% CI: 1.08-1.23) in men and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.80-1.02) in women. For favorable neurological survival, there was also a significant interaction (p=0.01) between sex and bystander CPR, with an adjusted OR for bystander CPR of 1.47 (95% CI: 1.36-1.60) in men and 1.16 (95% CI: 0.98- 1.37) in women.

Conclusions:
In a national registry of OHCA from the Republic of Korea, men who received bystander CPR were more likely to survive whereas women who received bystander CPR were not.
Abstract 9114: Impact of the Number of Prehospital Defibrillation Attempts on Neurologically Intact Survival in Patients With Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Shockable Rhythm
Authors: Tateishi Kazuya , Saito Yuichi , Kitahara Hideki , Tahara Yoshio , Yonemoto Naohiro , Ikeda Takanori , Nonogi Hiroshi , Nagao Ken , Kobayashi Yoshio ,   the JCS-ReSS Investigators
Published: December 2021

Background:
Early return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) leads to survival with a favorable neurologic outcome in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). For the early ROSC, defibrillation plays a crucial role for OHCA with shockable rhythm. However, little is known about the relation between the number of prehospital defibrillation attempts or etiology of OHCA and neurologically intact survival.

Methods:
Using a nationwide OHCA registry database from 2005 to 2017 in Japan, a cohort of 1,527,447 patients with OHCA were retrospectively analyzed. We included the patients of witnessed OHCAs with initial shockable rhythm. The relation between early ROSC, defined as prehospital ROSC achieved with defibrillation ≤3 times without adrenaline, and a neurologically intact survival rate (cerebral performance category score of 1 or 2 at 1 month) was evaluated. We also analyzed factors related to the successful early ROSC, including etiology of OHCA.

Results:
A total of 75,342 patients were included. Among patients with OHCA and prehospital ROSC, neurologically intact survival rates were better in patients who achieved early ROSC than their counterpart (62% vs. 36%, p<0.001). Success in early ROSC was an independent predictor of neurologically intact survival after adjustment of multiple cofounders (Table). Multivariate analysis showed cerebral vascular disease as an etiology of OHCA was a predictor of early ROSC (odds ratio 1.15, 95% confidence interval 1.03-1.29, p=0.02), but was significantly associated with a poor neurologic outcome at 1 month (Table).

Conclusions:
Success in early ROSC was associated with neurologically intact survival in patients with OHCA and initial shockable rhythm. Patients with OHCA due to cerebral vascular disease were likely to be resuscitated from cardiac arrest by defibrillations but had a poor neurologic outcome.
Abstract 9502: Prehospital Variables Associated With Neurologically Intact Survival in Elderly Survivors After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Evidence from a Japanese Nationwide Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Funada Akira , Goto Yoshikazu , Takamura Masayuki
Published: December 2021

Introduction:
Prehospital variables associated with neurologically intact survival in elderly survivors after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) are unclear and could differ according to age.

Methods:
We evaluated 6,349 elderly patients with OHCA (age ≥ 65 years) of cardiac origin who achieved prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survived for at least 1-month after OHCA. Data were obtained from the prospectively recorded All-Japan Utstein Registry between 2011 and 2016. Patients witnessed by emergency medical service providers were excluded. The primary outcome was 1-month neurologically intact survival, defined as a cerebral performance category (CPC) score of 1-2. Patients were divided into three groups by age (65-74, 75-89, or ≥ 90 years). The time from call receipt to ROSC was calculated.

Results:
The rates of 1-month CPC 1-2 in patients aged 65-74, 75-89, and ≥ 90 years were 66.5% (2,079/3,125), 52.9% (1,557/2,943), and 42.7% (120/281), respectively (p for trend < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, initial shockable rhythm and witnessed arrest were significantly associated with 1-month CPC 1-2 for all age groups (Table). However, the presence of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was significantly associated with 1-month CPC 1-2 only for patients aged 65-74 years. Time from call receipt to ROSC was not associated with 1-month CPC 1-2 for patients aged ≥ 90 years. In recursive partitioning analysis, the best single predictor for 1-month CPC 1-2 was initial shockable rhythm for all age groups. The next predictor for patients aged 65-74 years with initial shockable rhythm was the presence of bystander CPR, whereas the witnessed arrest was the next predictor for patients aged 65-74 years with initial non-shockable rhythm and other age groups regardless of the initial rhythm.

Conclusions:
Prehospital variables associated with neurologically intact survival in elderly survivors after OHCA varied with age.
Abstract 9724: Variance of the Intracranial Pressure Over Time and Relationship With Neurologic Prognosis in Cardiac Arrest Survivors Who Underwent Targeted Temperature Management
Authors: Song Hogul , You Yeonho , Kang Changshin , Park Jung Soo
Published: December 2021

Introduction:
Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is one of the most serious post-cardiac arrest (CA) complications, and is associated with poor outcomes. However, only a few studies have described the changes in ICP over time according to neurologic outcomes during targeted temperature management (TTM) after CA. We aimed to investigate the changes in the ICP over time and neurologic prognosis in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survivors who received TTM.

Methods:
This retrospective single-center study included OHCA survivors who underwent TTM between May 2018 and December 2020. ICP was measured immediately after the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) (Day 1), and after 24 h (Day 2), 48 h (Day 3), and 72 h (Day 4) by connecting a lumbar drain. The neurologic outcome was determined 3 months after the ROSC, and the Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) was dichotomized into good (CPC 1-2) and poor (CPC 3-5) outcomes.

Results:
We included 91 patients (males, 67; 74%); of whom 51 (56%) had a poor outcome. The ICP was significantly higher in the poor outcome group at each time point, except for Day 4. Moreover, the peak ICP levels were also higher in the poor outcome group (17.0 vs. 14.8; P = 0.002). The change in ICP levels was highest between Day 2 and Day 3 in the good outcome group, but between Day 1 and Day 2 in the poor outcome group. However, there was no difference in the total ICP change between the poor and good outcome groups (3.00 vs 3.09; P = 0.52). Using receiver operating characteristic analyses, the optimal cutoff values of the ICP levels for the prediction of poor outcomes were determined as: day 1, > 11.8; day 2, > 14.0; day 3, > 15.0; and day 4, > 14.8.

Conclusions:
All OHCA survivors who received TTM had an elevated ICP, regardless of the neurologic prognosis. However, peak ICP levels and the change in the ICP level on the first day after the ROSC was significantly higher in the poor outcome group. A prospective, multi-center study is required to confirm these results.
Abstract 9873: Comparing Base Locations for Drone-Delivered Defibrillators
Authors: Leung K.H. Benjamin , Al Assil Rahaf , Grunau Brian , Deakin Jonathan , Cheskes Sheldon , Christenson Jim , Chan Timothy
Published: December 2021

Introduction:
Drone-delivered defibrillators may improve response for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Prior studies have assumed that drones may be stationed at any police, fire, or paramedic station; however, cross-service implementation may not be logistically feasible. We sought to compare estimated response times by drone base location type.

Methods:
We included OHCAs (Jan. 2014 to Dec. 2020) in southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada where OHCA response includes fire and paramedic services. We created four models with candidate drone base locations at: police stations, fire stations, paramedic stations, and on a grid with 1 km sides as an optimistic model. We used mathematical optimization to select 1-5 drone bases for each model. Assuming a drone system had been in place during the study period and accounting for drone availability, we estimated 9-1-1 call-to-defibrillator intervals (measured to either drone, paramedic, or fire arrival) and calculated the proportion of OHCAs where a drone would arrive prior to fire and paramedic for each model. Median response times were compared to historical response using one-sided sign tests.

Results:
We included 1,610 OHCAs with a median historical response time of 6.4 mins (IQR 5.0-8.6). We identified 21 police stations, 59 fire stations, 21 paramedic stations, and 7,008 grid locations in the study area. Median 9-1-1 call-to-defibrillator intervals ranged from 4.3-5.3 mins for police, 4.3-5.3 mins for fire, 4.5-5.4 mins for paramedic, and 4.2-5.4 mins for grid locations (all P<0.001). Drones arrived prior to fire and paramedics in 36.6-65.4% of cases for police, 38.1-66.2% for fire, 37.3-63.2% for paramedic, and 35.7-66.8% for grid locations.

Conclusion:
Locating drone bases at different types of emergency service stations significantly decreases 9-1-1 call-to-defibrillator intervals, while resulting in similar response intervals to those achieved using optimistic grid-optimal locations.
Abstract 9899: Sex-Related Differences in Severe Cerebral Edema Development in Comatose Cardiac Arrest Patients
Authors: Kulpanowski Annelise M , Copen William A , Hancock Brandon L , Rosenthal Eric S , Schoenfeld David A , Edlow Brian L , Kimberly W Taylor T , Amorim Edilberto , Westover Michael B , Ning Mingming , Schaefer Pamela W , Malhotra Rajeev , Giacino Joseph T , Greer David M , Wu Ona
Published: December 2021

Introduction:
Previous studies have shown that women have poorer neurological outcomes than men following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, those studies focused on survival, a measure that may be confounded by withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy (WLST) decisions. We sought to assess sex differences in severe cerebral edema development following cardiac arrest.

Methods:
Data from adult OHCA patients presenting between 2007-2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with multiple concomitant acute neurologic dysfunctions were excluded. Severe cerebral edema was classified as herniation or more than minimal ventricular effacement in MRI or CT radiology reports. Arrest types were categorized as shockable (VT/VF) or non-shockable (PEA, asystole). Poor outcomes were defined as Cerebral Performance Category > 3 at discharge. Multivariable backward stepwise logistic regression was performed.

Results:
359 patients met our inclusion criteria. Demographics, imaging and clinical outcomes are summarized in Table 1. Women were more likely than men to have a non-shockable initial rhythm (P=0.003) and develop severe cerebral edema (P=0.005). Backwards stepwise logistic regression of an initial model including age, sex, rhythm, witnessed arrest and TTM-treatment, produced a final model that showed younger age (P<0.001), female sex (P=0.01), and non-shockable rhythm (P<0.001) as significant predictors of severe cerebral edema development. Patients with severe cerebral edema had worse outcomes (89/91 vs 176/268, P<0.001), and greater in-hospital mortality (82/91 vs 166/268, P<0.001), with a higher proportion of deaths due to brain death (15/82 vs 3/166 P<0.001).

Conclusion:
For OHCA patients who are initially comatose, women are more likely than men to have non-shockable rhythms and severe cerebral brain edema. These differences may be responsible for the poorer discharge outcomes that have been observed by other studies.
Long-Term Outcomes in Adult Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension After Percutaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defects
Authors: Akseer Selai , Abrahamyan Lusine , Lee Douglas S. , Huszti Ella , Meier Lukas M. , Osten Mark , Benson Lee , Horlick Eric
Published: December 2021

Background:

Pulmonary hypertension (PH), recently redefined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure >20 mm Hg (PH
20
), may be observed in patients with atrial septal defects (ASD). We aimed to determine the effect of preprocedural PH
20
status on outcomes among patients undergoing ASD closure.

Methods:

Study population was selected from a retrospective registry of adult patients who underwent percutaneous ASD closure from 1998 to 2016 from a single center and had right heart catheterizations during the procedure. The clinical registry was linked to administrative databases to capture short- and long-term outcomes.

Results:

We included a total of 632 ASD closure patients of whom 359 (56.8%) had PH
20
. The mean follow-up length was 7.6±4.6 years. Patients with PH
20
were older (mean age 56.5 versus 43.1 years,
P
<0.001) and a higher prevalence of comorbidities including hypertension (54.3% versus 21.6%,
P
<0.001) and diabetes (18.1% versus 5.9%,
P
<0.001) than those without PH. In a Cox proportional hazards model after covariate adjustment, patients with PH had a significantly higher risk of developing major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (heart failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, or cardiovascular mortality), with hazards ratio 2.45 (95% CI, 1.4–4.4). When applying the prior, mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥25 mm Hg (PH
25
) cutoff, a significantly higher hazard of developing major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events was observed in PH versus non-PH patients.

Conclusions:

ASD patients with PH undergoing closure suffer from more comorbidities and worse long-term major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events outcomes, compared with patients without PH. The use of the new PH
20
definition potentially dilutes the effect of this serious condition on outcomes in this population.
Cardiovascular Safety Assessment in Cancer Drug Development
Authors: Oren Ohad , Neilan Tomas G. , Fradley Michael G. , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: December 2021

The development of cardiovascular toxicity attributable to anticancer drugs is a pivotal event that is associated with cardiovascular morbidity as well as with worse cancer‐specific and overall outcomes. Although broad consensus exists regarding the importance of cardiovascular safety assessment in cancer drug development, real‐world data suggest that cardiovascular events are significantly underestimated in oncology trials. This drug safety discrepancy has profound implications on drug development decisions, risk‐benefit evaluation, formulation of surveillance and prevention protocols, and survivorship. In this article, we review the contemporary cardiovascular safety evaluation of new pharmaceuticals in hematology and oncology, spanning from in vitro pharmacodynamic testing to randomized clinical trials. We argue that cardiovascular safety assessment of anticancer drugs should be reformed and propose practical strategies, including development and validation of preclinical assays, expansion of oncology trial eligibility, incorporation of cardiovascular end points in early‐phase studies, and design of longitudinal multi‐institutional cardiotoxicity registries.