bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
528 Advanced echocardiographic assessment in outpatients with advanced heart failure undergoing periodical levosimendan infusion
Authors: Morello Matteo , Miglierina Emilio , Golino Michele , Ceriani Francesca , Oliva Carlo , Blasi Federico , Croce Francesca , Seganfreddo Francesca , Refujiati Taulant , Marazzato Jacopo , De Ponti Roberto
Published: December 2021

Aims

The long-term clinical effects of Levosimendan in patients (pts) with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) are mainly mediated by its long-acting metabolite, OR-1896, whose half-life is much longer (81 h vs. 1–1.5 h), although with similar inotropic and vasodilatory effect. Echocardiographic data are still lacking, expecially in the chronic setting. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) and left ventricular myocardial work index (LVMWI) are novel non-invasive methods for left ventricle (LV) function evaluation that consider myocardial deformation and afterloads using LV strain combined with the non-invasive estimation of LV pressure. The aim of this study was to perform an echocardiographic assessment in pts with advanced HFrEF before and after infusion of Levosimendan in a chronic setting, using GLS and LVMWI.

Methods and results

6 pts with ischaemic HFrEF were prospectively enrolled in the study. Echo-data were collected from all patients using a Vivid E95 system (GE Healthcare), before and after the end of infusion (24–48 h). Moreover, 4 pts underwent another echo evaluation 96 h after the infusion to assess the long term effect of OR-1896. Although mean end-diastolic volume decreased after 24–48 h, increased after 96 h, as reported in Table 1. As to the Ejection Fraction (EF), strain-parameters and stroke volume (SV) remain unchanged before and after the infusion. Similarly LVMWI-derived parameters also remain overall unchanged (Table 1).

Conclusions

In pts with ischaemic HFrEF undergoing periodical infusion of Levosimendan, we very preliminary observed a reduction of LV size short after the infusion, which interestingly do not persist after 96 h. The other considered echocardiographic parameters (EF, SV, strain-derived parameters) did not show significant differences before and after the infusion. An explanation is that Levosimendan improves LV congestion but not the contractile force in pts with advanced HFrEF, whose myocardial performance is too compromised. Therefore the haemodynamic benefits observed chronically in pts with Levosimendan might be due to the initial decongestion and its vasodilatory effect, and it may not persist in mid-term, depending on basal myocardial conditions. Larger studies should be conducted to conferm these findings.
97 An unusual combination of rare congenital heart defects in a 70 years old lady complaining worsening dyspnea
Authors: Bellettini Matteo , Montefusco Antonio , Angelini Andrea , Orzan Fulvio , D’Ascenzo Fabrizio , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria
Published: December 2021

Methods and results

A 70-year-old woman presented to our outpatient clinic complaining of worsening dyspnoea in the last 3 months. She had a medical history of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. We performed a comprehensive evaluation starting with a transthoracic echocardiogram that showed a dilatation of right ventricle with normal function, severe pulmonary regurgitation, and moderate tricuspid regurgitation with estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure of 55 mmHg; the left ventricle had normal dimension and function, with mild aortic and mitral regurgitation, and a subaortic membrane which caused a mild obstruction (maximum gradient 17 mmHg). The cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) confirmed the enlargement of the right ventricle and of the pulmonary artery trunk (51 mm) and the severity of pulmonary regurgitation (regurgitant fraction of 41%). CMR also clearly showed the VSD just below the subaortic membrane and the left to right shunt with a jet that appeared to proceed straight from the left ventricle through the pulmonary valve (Figure 1A). The estimated Qp/Qs was 1.6 and no intramyocardial late enhancement was present. Pulmonary pressures and pulmonary vascular resistance were normal at the right heart catheterization and the Qp/Qs ratio calculated invasively was 1.45. Considering patient high-risk profile for coronary artery disease, a coronary angiography was also performed showing an abnormal origin of the right coronary artery (RCA) from the mid-portion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) with two significant stenosis: one involving the bifurcation of RCA and the other the mid-portion of the LAD (Figure 1B). The coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) showed a benign course of the RCA anterior to the pulmonary artery towards the auriculoventricular groove (Figure 1C, D). Taking into account all these findings, multidisciplinary heart team decided to perform a cardiac surgery intervention of pulmonary valve and trunk replacement, closure of ventricular septal defect and two coronary bypass grafts on LAD and RCA.

Conclusions

This case represents a combination of some rare congenital heart abnormalities where multimodality cardiovascular imaging techniques were essential to establish a proper diagnosis and to plan an adequate surgical repair. We hypothesize that the peculiar orientation of the VSD jet may have caused the pulmonary trunk dilatation considering that neither the shunt, nor the pulmonary pressure appear to have been of sufficient magnitude to cause it. Pulmonary ectasia and the damage inflicted by the jet to the cusps of the valve have led to the severe valvular insufficiency. While aortic and tricuspid regurgitation are known to be associated with VSD, to the best of our knowledge this is the first report of pulmonary regurgitation secondary to VSD.
510 Giant left atrial appendage aneurysm in a 47 years old male: a case report
Authors: Coraducci Francesca , Belleggia Sara , Torselletti Lorenzo , Coretti Francesca , Valeri Yari , Maiorino Francesco , Ciliberti Giuseppe , Barbarossa Alessandro , Compagnucci Paolo , Stronati Giulia , Casella Michela , Russo Antonio Dello , Guerra Federico
Published: December 2021

Aims

Left atrial appendage aneurysm (LAAA) is a rare condition mostly due to congenital malformations or secondary causes.

Methods and results

Since very few cases are described in the literature, there is uncertainty in treatment and prognosis. Diagnosis is achieved by advanced imaging as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), which also allows the detection of thrombus, moreover cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) could be more specific in describing sizes and relationships with surrounding anatomical structures. Surgical aneurysmectomy could be indicated in the majority of cases, especially if compression of other cardiac chambers or mediastinal structures are present. Medical therapy can include tromboprophylaxys and arrhythmias management. Since high quality evidence is scarce, a shared decision making by Heart Team approach should be considered. We present the case of a 47 years old male who came to our attention for palpitations and epigastric pain. The ECG showed high ventricular rate atrial fibrillation (AF) with wide QRS (left bundle branch block morphology). Due to haemodynamic instability the patient underwent urgent electrical cardioversion and coronary angiography showed patent coronary arteries. He had a giant left auricle appendage diagnosed twelve years before and was on antiarrhythmic prophylaxis for previous AF episodes. A TEE was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of LAAA also showing hypokinetic anterior-apical wall due to the interplay with the giant aneurysm. Subsequent CMR showed no LGE and confirmed the absence of thrombus in the LAAA. After Heart Team consultation surgical treatment was proposed to the patient who refused any invasive procedure. Therefore medical treatment was achieved by direct oral anticoagulation and antiarrhythmic therapy with betablockers and flecainide per os. Moreover, a loop recorder for longitudinal monitoring was implanted. At 6 months of follow-up the patient was asymptomatic except for a brief paroxysm of self-limited AF. 510 Figure 1CMR scan showing giant left atrial appendage aneurysm. (A) Transversal view. (B) Frontal view. (C) Sagittal view.510 Figure 2TOE mid oesophageal 57° showing giant left atrial appendage.
789 Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in repaired tetralogy of Fallot patients: correlation with the level of physical activity and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Perrone Marco Alfonso , Gentili Federica , Curione Davide , Ciancarella Paolo , Secinaro Aurelio , Gagliardi Maria Giulia , Turchetta Attilio , Guccione Paolo , Galletti Lorenzo , Bianco Massimiliano , Drago Fabrizio , Leonardi Benedetta
Published: December 2021

Aims

Patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rToF) tend to have a decent life free of limitations. In asymptomatic individuals, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to determine if pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) is necessary. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) could aid in determining the extent of functional impairment.

Methods and results

rToF patients who had an MRI and CPET between 2019 and 2021 in a brief interval (<1 year) were included in the study. Data were gathered on demographics, CPET parameters, MRI, type of surgery, clinical functional class, QRS duration, arrhythmic events, and level of physical activity. A total of 83 participants were enrolled in this study. There was a slight decrease in exercise capacity (median peak VO2/kg 30; range 25–33 mlO2/kg/min). Peak VO2 (r = 0.28), peak VO2/kg (r = 0.40), VO2 at AT (r = 0.31), peak oxygen pulse (r = 0.26), and oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) (r = 0.35) values were found to have a positive association with right ventricular (RV) size. No significant correlation was observed between CPET parameters and PR, LVEF, and RVEF. A significant positive association was detected between right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVi) and exercise capacity, especially up to 160 ml/m2. The analysis of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) replies revealed a statistically significant relationship between the level of physical activity and both peak HR and the indexes of ventilatory efficiency.

Conclusion

In rToF patients with moderate–severe PR, NYHA class I, preserved RVEF, a slight reduction in exercise tolerance was detected. OUES could also be valuable to this population. A positive association was found between RV dilation and exercise performance up to 160 ml/m2 of RVEDVi, suggesting that perhaps at this cut-off value of RVEDVi, PVR could start being considered.
79 Platypnea–orthodeoxia syndrome as an uncommon cause of dyspnoea in a nonagenarian with aortic dissection
Authors: Lombardi Marco , Del Buono Marco Giuseppe , Princi Giuseppe , Locorotondo Gabriella , Lombardo Antonella , Vergallo Rocco , Montone Rocco Antonio , Burzotta Francesco , Trani Carlo , Crea Filippo , Sanna Tommaso
Published: December 2021

Methods and results

Platypnea–Orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is an uncommon but challenging clinical condition characterized by positional dyspnoea (platypnea) and arterial desaturation (orthodeoxia) in the upright position that improve in the supine position. POS can occur insidiously, as progressive unexplained oxygen desaturation for months or years, or as acute life-threatening unexplained hypoxaemia. The most common cause is the presence of an intracardiac shunt (patent foramen ovale and other interatrial defects) associated with a secondary anatomic or functional defect that serve as substrate for a right to left intracardiac shunt leading to oxygen desaturation.

Conclusions

Herein we present the case of a nonagenarian with a known history of ascending aortic aneurysm, that was admitted to the emergency department of our institution with a complaint of intermittent chest pain and dyspnoea. POS was then diagnosed, and the patient underwent a successful percutaneous closure with an Amplatzer™ device (25/25 mm) with minimal residual right-to-left shunt leading to a significant relief of the dyspnoea and improvement of arterial saturation. We also herein revise the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostic work-up, and management of patients with POS, aiming at increasing the awareness of this uncommon but often misdiagnosed treatable condition.
198 Intrapulmonary shunt assessment in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Scoccia Gianmarco , Sfredda Sara , Miotti Cristiano , Luongo Federico , Toto Federica , Malerba Claudia , Caputo Annalisa , Manguso Giulia , Adamo Francesca , Serino Giorgia , Schina Mauro , Badagliacca Roberto , Sciomer Susanna , Vizza Carmine Dario
Published: December 2021

Aims

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, progressive disease with a poor prognosis. It is characterized by the presence of mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) ≥25 mmHg along with a pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) ≤15 mmHg and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) >3 Wood units at right heart catheterization, in the absence of other causes of pre-capillary PH such as PH due to lung diseases, chronic thromboembolic PH, or other rare diseases. Hypoxaemia is a frequent finding in patients with PAH and could be related to ventilation–perfusion mismatch, reduced diffusing capacity, decreased cardiac output, or the opening of intrapulmonary (IP) or intracardiac shunt. Purpose of the present study is to detect IP shunts in PAH patients and its determinants.

Methods and results

We retrospectively enrolled 29 PAH patients, collecting clinical parameters, haemodynamic and blood gas analysis at baseline and after specific therapies at follow-up. Shunt fraction was calculated by the formula (Cc—Ca)/(Cc—Cv) during oxygen supplementation (FiO2 100%). Intracardiac defects were excluded by echo contrast examination. As expected, after treatments our results showed a significant decrease of PAPm (−7.2 ± 11.6 mmHg) and a significant decrease of PVR (−2.1 ± 3.9 WU). However, it was reported a statistically significant decrease in Hb value (−1.2 ± 1.7 g/dl), in SpO2 (−2.1 ± 3.8%) and in the alveolar–arterial oxygen gradient (a-ADO2) (+54.5 ± 113.1 mmHg). 6MWT and NYHA decreased at follow-up but not statistically significance was detected. IP shunt increase was detected at follow-up after specific treatments (delta Shunt +6.9 ± 6.5%). At multivariate analysis delta PVR remains the only independent determinants of delta Shunts with a significative increment of shunts when PVR are reduced by more than three WU.

Conclusions

Specific PAH treatments determine a decrease of PVR, but a reverse correlation with IP shunt was noticed. Increase of IP shunt could be not a favourable clinical feature. In fact high IP shunt fraction could determine hypoxaemia and the need of a chronic oxygen supply therapy. Although a not statistically significant decrease of 6MWT and NYHA was found, it is reasonable that a long-standing hypoxaemia could reduce the aerobic function capacity. Ours results unfortunately were deeply influenced by the loss of a great part of elective patients during the pandemic, with the most part of data coming from patients needing hospitalization. This could explain why the delta shunt fraction is higher than expected.
380 Left heart disease phenotype and use of pulmonary vasodilators in elderly patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: the Patriarca registry
Authors: Toma Matteo , Miceli Roberta , Bonsante Edoardo , Confalonieri Marco , Garascia Andrea , Ghio Stefano , Lattanzio Mariangela , Lombardi Carlo Mario , Paciocco Giuseppe , Piccinino Cristina , Rota Irene , Scelsi Laura , Scuri Piermario , Stolfo Davide , Vincenzi Antonella , Vicenzi Marco , Ameri Pietro
Published: December 2021

Aims

The prevalence of occult left heart disease (LHD) and the feasibility of vasodilator therapy in the progressively growing population of elderly subjects with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are under scrutiny. We evaluated the presence of a LHD phenotype and the patterns of vasodilator treatment in such patients.

Methods and results

The PATRIARCA registry collected cross-sectional data from 180 subjects with PAH or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension and ≥70 years of age in 11 Italian centres between 1 December 2019 and 15 September 2020. After excluding patients with CTEPH or incomplete follow-up haemodynamic parameters, 77 individuals with PAH diagnosed at ≥ 65 years of age according to current guidelines were included in the analysis. A LHD phenotype was defined as follows, expanding the criteria adopted in the AMBITION trial: (i) ≥3 among body mass index ≥30 kg/m2, systemic hypertension, diabetes, and significant coronary artery disease; (ii) 2 of the risk factors for LHD above and ≥1 among permanent atrial fibrillation, left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, LV ejection fraction <50%, at least moderate mitral or aortic valve disease, and left atrial dilation; (iii) pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) between 3 and 3.75 WU or PVR between 3.75 and 6.25 WU in the presence of a pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) of 13–15 mmHg. Forty-one (53%) patients had a LHD phenotype according to the most recent clinical and haemodynamic evaluation, which was performed 16 (4–35) months after diagnosis (Figure). As per definition, they had higher rates of comorbidities and more often echocardiographic signs of LHD (not shown). The frequency of NYHA classes I–II was comparable between the two groups, while the 6 min-walking distance tended to be lower in subjects with a LHD phenotype than in those without (Figure, left panel). Furthermore, these latter had lower PVR and higher PAWP. No differences were seen in treatment with pulmonary vasodilators, with around 50% of patients receiving double oral combination therapy in both groups (Figure, right panel). During the study period, 7 (17%) and 4 (11%) patients died in the LHD and no-LHD groups, respectively (P = 0.40).

Conclusions

In this real-world cohort of elderly patients, a LHD phenotype was common despite an initial haemodynamic diagnosis of PAH. However, it did not appear to cause simplification or discontinuation of pulmonary vasodilator therapy. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether and how a LHD phenotype affects the use and effects of PAH drugs in the elderly.
134 Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on timing and early clinical outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Angellotti Domenico , Manzo Rachele , Franzone Anna , Esposito Giovanni , Avvedimento Marisa , Ilardi Federica , Castiello Domenico , Mariani Andrea , Iapicca Cristina , Faretra Antonella , Leone Attilio , Di Serafino Luigi , Piccolo Raffaele , Cirillo Plinio Lorenzo , Esposito Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Aims

COVID-19 pandemic deeply changed the management of patients with aortic stenosis. Many cardiac societies have drawn up guidelines for the optimal management of this population but applicability of such recommendations in the current clinical practice and their impact on clinical outcomes has not been adequately investigated.

Methods and results

A single-centre retrospective study included 315 patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) between April 2017 and June 2021. To analyse the impact of hospitalization pathways during the pandemic on clinical outcomes of TAVI patients, study population was divided into two groups (pre-pandemic and pandemic groups) and all perioperative/follow-up data were compared. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 30 days; secondary endpoints included procedural success and short- term complications. Pandemic group patients showed a more complex baseline clinical profile (NYHA III–IV, 70.1% vs. 56.3%; P = 0.03). The overall time to procedure was significantly longer during pandemic (56.9 ± 68.3 vs.37.7 ± 25.4; P = 0.004) while intensive care unit stay was shorter (2.2 ± 1.4 vs. 3.3 ± 3.5). Hospitalization length was similar in both group as well as all-cause mortality rate and the incidence of major periprocedural complications.

Conclusions

COVID-19 pandemic did not affect the safety and effectiveness of TAVI as similar rates of procedural complications and all-cause mortality were reported than before February 2020. Despite the increased time lag between diagnosis and procedure and a more complex clinical profile of patients at baseline, the revised pathway of hospitalization allowed to resume inpatient procedures while not affecting patients’ and healthcare workers’ safety.
623 Coronary ectasia in different clinical subsets: stable and acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Donati Francesco , Bendandi Francesco , Ghetti Gabriele , Taglieri Nevio
Published: December 2021

Aims

Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is not a rare finding in coronary angiography with a prevalence ranging from 1% to 20% according to clinical setting. The aim of this study was to analyse the angiographic differences of coronary ectasia based on admitting diagnosis.

Methods and results

A cohort study was conducted including patients with angiographic evidence of CAE between January 2016 and December 2020. The study population was divided into two groups according to the clinical presentation: stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Markis classification, basal thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow of each coronary artery, associated coronary artery obstruction (CAO), and respective Gensini score were reported. A total of 144 patients were included in this study. No difference were found concerning age or the traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Compared to general population, higher rates of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) and ischaemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) (31% of the entire ACS cohort and 42% the SCAD group, respectively) were observed. Furthermore, irrespective of lower Gensini score values, MINOCA patients showed significantly more widespread CAE and a more severe impairment of coronary flow compared to SCAD and obstructive ACS patients.

Conclusions

CAE patients show a surprisingly high rate of acute coronary syndromes with non-obstructive coronary arteries. The extent of the ectatic involvement and its consequences on coronary blood flow could be the base of the higher rate of ACS events observed in this population, recognizing mechanisms other than plaque rupture.
470 Percutaneous arterial closure devices and ultrasound-guided trans-femoral puncture observational investigation: insights from the PETRONIO registry
Authors: Iannopollo Gianmarco , Nobile Giampiero , Lanzilotti Valerio , Capecchi Alessandro , Verardi Roberto , Bruno Matteo , Somaschini Alberto , Rubboli Andrea , Pasquale Giuseppe Di , Casella Gianni
Published: December 2021

Aims

To evaluate the safety of a single and combined use of ultrasound-guided femoral puncture (U) and percutaneous arterial closure devices (P) in femoral artery procedures (FAP) compared to fluoroscopic guidance (F) and manual compression (M) in a large radial-focused interventional centre. U and P, taken individually, have improved safety in femoral arterial access procedures compared to traditional techniques.

Methods and results

All FAP performed between July 2017 and December 2018 in our centre were divided into three phases: (i) control period with F and M mainly performed; (ii) phase out period where U and P were introduced; and (iii) intervention period where a 6-month expertise on the novel techniques was acquired. The overall population was further stratified into subgroups: F/M, U/M, F/P, and U/P. The primary study endpoint was in-hospital access site bleeding events (BE) according to the BARC criteria. The secondary endpoint was vascular site complications (VASC). 418 procedures (14%) out of 3025 were performed via FA access during the study period. The overall access-site in-hospital BE were 97 (23%). Decreasing rates of BE (phase 1: n = 46, 29%; phase 2: n = 38, 22% e phase 3: n = 13, 15%; P = 0.027) and VASC were observed during the three periods. BE occurred significantly more often in F/M group (F/M: n = 48; 32%; U/M: n = 12, 16%; F/P: n = 18, 21%; U/P: n = 19, 17%; P = 0.008). F/M subgroup was an independent predictor of BE both in multivariable analysis and propensity score matching analysis.

Conclusions

The introduction of ultrasound-guided femoral puncture and percutaneous arterial closure devices has reduced access site bleeding with a progressive improvement after the first 6 months learning period.
90 Annular size and interaction with trans-catheter aortic valves for the treatment of severe bicuspid aortic valve stenosis: insights from the beat registry
Authors: Moscarella Elisabetta , Mangieri Antonio , Giannini Francesco , Tchetchè Didier , Kim Won-keun , Sinning Jan Malte , Landes Uri , Kornowski Ran , Backer Ole De , Nickenig George , Biase Chiara De , Soendergaard Lars , Marco Federico De , Bedogni Francesco , Ancona Marco , Montorfano Matteo , Regazzoli Damiano , Stefanini Giulio , Toggweiler Stefan , Tamburino Corrado , Immè Sebastiano , Tarantini Giuseppe , Sievert Horst , Schaefer Ulrich , Kempfert Jörg , Woehrle Jochen , Latib Azeem , Calabrò Paolo , Medda Massimo , Tespili Maurizio , Colombo Antonio , Ielasi Alfonso
Published: December 2021

Aims

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is safe and feasible in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), but whether annular size may influence TAVR results in BAV patients remains unclear. We aimed at evaluating the impact of aortic annular size on procedural and clinical outcomes of BAV patients undergoing TAVR, as well as potential interactions between annular dimension and trans-catheter heart valve (THV) type [balloon-expandable (BEV) vs. self-expanding (SEV)].

Methods and results

BEAT is a multicentre registry of consecutive BAV stenosis undergoing TAVR. For this sub-study patients were classified according to annular dimension in small-annulus (area < 400 mm2 or perimeter <72 mm), medium-annulus (area ≥ 400 and < 575 mm2, perimeter ≥72 mm and< 85 mm), large-annulus (area ≥575 mm2 or perimeter ≥85 mm). Primary endpoint was Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) device success. 45(15.5%) patients had small, 132(45.3%) medium, and 114(39.2%) large annuli. Compared with other groups, patients with large annuli were more frequently male, at younger age, had higher body mass index, larger aortic valve area, higher rate of moderate-severe calcification, lower mean trans-aortic valve gradient and lower left ventricular ejection fraction. In large-annuli SEVs were associated with a lower VARC-2 device success (75.9% vs. 90.6%, P = 0.049) driven by a higher rate of paravalvular valvular leak (PVL) compared to BEVs (20.7% vs. 1.2%, P < 0.001). However, no differences in clinical outcomes were observed according to annular size nor THV type.

Conclusions

TAVR in BAV patients is feasible irrespective of annular size. However in patients with large aortic annulus SEVs were associated with a significantly higher rate of PVLs compared to BEVs.
299 3-Year results of STEMI patients treated with a pre-specified BVS implantation strategy: BVS SYTEMI strategy-it long term
Authors: Moscarella Elisabetta , Campo Gianluca , Leoncini Massimo , Geraci Salvatore , Nicolini Elisa , Cortese Bernardo , Loi Bruno , Guiducci Vincenzo , Saccà Salvatore , Varricchio Attilio , Vicinelli Paolo , Candia Gianfranco De , Silvestro Antonio , Calabrò Paolo , Brugaletta Salvatore , Latib Azeem , Tespili Maurizio , Ielasi Alfonso
Published: December 2021

Aims

Data on Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) use in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are limited. Furthermore, Absorb studies including STEMI patients lacked a prespecified implantation technique to optimize BVS deployment. To assess the 3-year clinical outcomes STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) with a pre-specified BVS implantation strategy.

Methods and results

BVS STEMI STRATEGY-IT (NCT02601781) included 505 STEMI patients undergoing pPCI with BVS following a dedicated implantation protocol. Device-oriented composite endpoint [(DOCE) cardiac death, ischemia-driven target lesion revascularization (ID-TLR) and target vessel myocardial infarction (TV-MI)] and scaffold thrombosis (ScT) at 3-year were evaluated. A subgroup analysis was performed on patients in whom dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) was continued 36 months after pPCI (‘longer-term DAPT’), and outcomes of this cohort compared to the remaining population (‘shorter-term DAPT’: <36 months) are also reported. Three-year DOCE and ScT rates were low (2.4% and 1.0%, respectively). In 319 (63.2%) patients DAPT was continued 36 months after pPCI. DOCE rate was significantly lower in the longer- compared to shorter-DAPT group (HR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.1–0.9; P = 0.03), driven by a lower rate of TV-MI (0% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.018). Significantly lower rate of ScT was observed in longer-DAPT group (0% vs. 2.7%, P = 0.007).

Conclusions

In STEMI patients undergoing pPCI, a strategy of optimized BVS implantation technique is associated with favourable DOCE and ScT rates at 3 year. DAPT extension up to 36 months further improves long-term clinical outcomes.
680 Peripheral intravascular lithotripsy of ILEO-femoral arteries to facilitate transfemoral TAVI: a multicentric prospective registry
Authors: Nardi Giulia , Backer Ole De , Saia Francesco , Sondergaard Lars , Ristalli Francesca , Meucci Francesco , Stolcova Miroslava , Mattesini Alessio , Demola Pierluigi , Wang Christina Xi , Jabri Anees Al , Bruno Antonio Giulio , Palmierini Tullio , Ielasi Alfonso , Belle Eric Van , Berti Sergio , Mario Carlo Di
Published: December 2021

Aims

The presence of severe calcific atherosclerosis at the iliofemoral axis may preclude transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) by transfemoral (TF) approach. Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) is a novel technology that fractures intimal/medial calcium and increases vessel compliance allowing TF-TAVI in selected patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). To report on the safety and efficacy of IVL-assisted TF-TAVI in an all-comers population.

Methods and results

Clinical, imaging and procedural data on all consecutive patients treated by IVL-assisted TF-TAVI in six high-volume European centres (2018–2020) were collected in this prospective, real-world, multicentre registry. IVL-assisted TF-TAVI was performed in 108 patients, increasing from 2.4% to 6.5% of all TAVI in 2018 to 2020, respectively. The target lesion was most often localized at the common and/or external iliac artery (93.5% of cases; average TL-MLD 4.6 ± 0.9 mm with 318 degrees of calcium arc). Transfemoral aortic valve delivery was successful in 100% of cases; final procedural success in 98.2% (two conversion to cardiac open surgery for annular rupture and valve migration). Complications of the IVL-treated segments consisted of one perforation and three major dissections requiring stent implantation (two covered stents and two BMS). Access site related complication included three major bleedings. Three in-hospital deaths were recorded (2.8%, one failed surgical conversion after annular rupture, one cardiac arrest after initial valvuloplasty, one late hyperkalaemia in renal dysfunction).

Conclusions

IVL-assisted TF-TAVI proved to be a safe and effective approach, which helps expanding the indications for TF-TAVI in patients with severe calcific PAD. Still, these patients maintain a higher than average incidence of peri-procedural complication.
713 Culprit plaque morphology and healing capacity in patients with and without preinfarction angina: an optical coherence tomography imaging study
Authors: Vergallo Rocco , Ricchiuto Alfredo , Ridolfi Francesco , Buonpane Angela , Bianchini Emiliano , Maino Alessandro , Lombardi Marco , D’A mario Domenico , Montone Rocco , Romagnoli Enrico , Leone Antonio Maria , Buffon Antonino , Aurigemma Cristina , Burzotta Francesco , Trani Carlo , Crea Filippo
Published: December 2021

Aims

The relationship between culprit plaque morphology, healed culprit plaques prevalence and clinical presentation of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains largely unexplored. We hypothesized that angina preceding the occurrence of AMI (pre-infarction angina, PIA) may reflect a distinct morphologic phenotype of culprit plaques and potentially different healing capacity.

Methods and results

We conducted a retrospective observational study in patients with AMI who underwent intracoronary optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the culprit lesion before PCI at the Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli–Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome. Based on the clinical history, patients were classified into two groups: (i) PIA group, defined as either intermittent chest pain within 6 h preceding the final episode of chest pain, or unstable angina (or both) in the week preceding AMI or (ii) no-PIA group, defined as a single episode of chest pain without prodromal symptoms in the preceding week. Culprit plaques were classified as plaque rupture (PR) or intact fibrous cap (IFC), and presence of layered appearance (healed plaque, HP) was assessed. Thrombus burden (TB) was estimated, and prevalence of diffuse calcification, neovascularization, and OCT-defined macrophage accumulation were evaluated. A total of 102 patients with AMI were included (50 PIA, 52 no-PIA). Patients with PIA showed a higher prevalence of IFC than PR (58% vs. 42%, P = 0.030). PR in patients with PIA were more frequently associated with macrophage accumulation (71.4% vs. 28.6% P = 0.001), and TB tended to be lower [22.0 (15.8–30.3) vs. 38.5 (12.8–67.5), P = 0.145]. Diffuse calcifications were significantly less frequent in patients with PIA (22.0% vs. 40.4%, P = 0.045), while neovascularization tended to be more frequent (58.0% vs. 42.3%, P = 0.113). HPs prevalence was significantly higher in the PIA than in the no-PIA group (66.0% vs. 25.0%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with PIA have a distinct culprit plaque phenotype, more frequently characterized by IFC and a relatively lower TB, with a significantly higher prevalence of plaque healing.
377 Optimal timing for percutaneous coronary interventions in patients undergoing TAVI
Authors: Venturi Gabriele , Lunardi Mattia , Sole Paolo Alberto Del , Pighi Michele , Scarsini Roberto , Ribichini Flavio
Published: December 2021

Aims

PCI timing in patients undergoing TAVI is still controversial, with most cases treated before TAVI, because of concerns about potential ischaemic complications during valve replacement. This study aims to compare procedural and in-hospital outcomes in patients undergoing PCI before or after TAVI.

Methods and results

Patients undergoing TAVI and PCI from 2010 to 2021 at Verona University Hospital were included. High-risk PCI were defined when performed in unprotected left main, proximal left anterior descending, proximal dominant right coronary artery or in 3-vessel disease. The primary endpoint was the cumulative incidence of any TAVI procedural complication and in-hospital adverse events (VARC-3 criteria). 129/940 TAVI patients underwent PCI was performed before TAVI in 33.4% of cases. Most patients (76.4%) were at high-risk. The primary endpoint occurred in 30.2% PCI pre-TAVI vs. 23.3% post-TAVI (HR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.26–2.86; P = 0.671); and in 37.9% vs. 18.5% respectively, among high-risk PCI (HR: 1.62; 95% CI: 0.86–3.76; P = 0.102). At 24 months, MACCE-free survival was comparable (PCI pre-TAVI 91.7% vs. post-TAVI 97.5%, HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.13–4.77, P = 0.765).

Conclusions

PCI performed after TAVI does not expose patients to higher risks of peri-procedural or long-term complications when compared with pre-TAVI procedures, even in presence of high-risk lesions. 377 FigureAn example of post-TAVI high risk PCI. Pre-TAVI coronary angiography showed ostial left main critical lesion (A). After Symetis Aortic valve deployment, balloon angioplasty and stent implantation were performed (B and C) with good final angiographic result (D).
482 Dressler’s syndrome following catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: a case series
Authors: Magnocavallo Michele , Rocca Domenico Giovanni Della , Lavalle Carlo , Chimenti Cristina , Carola Gianni , Mohanty Sanghamitra , Trivedi Chintan , Bassiouny Mohamed , Al-Ahmad Amin , Burkhardt David J , Gallinghouse Joseph G , Sanchez Javier E , Horton Rodney P , Natale Andrea
Published: December 2021

Aims

Dressler’s syndrome is a secondary form of pleuro-pericarditis caused by an immune system response to heart damage. The onset of Dressler’s syndrome following catheter ablation has been previously described in rare case reports. We sought to report clinical manifestations, management, and outcomes of Dressler’s syndrome after atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation.

Methods and results

Data from five AF patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation that was complicated by the development of Dressler’s syndrome were extracted from a prospective, single-centre database. Five out of 12 747 patients (0.04%) developed Dressler’s syndrome post AF ablation, 100% of which were females, with a mean age of 75.8 ± 3.4 years. All patients had persistent AF, and had pulmonary vein (PV) antrum, plus posterior wall isolation, plus non-PV trigger ablation. The mean procedure, fluoroscopy, and radiofrequency times were 183.20 ± 48.0, 50.3 ± 24.0, and 78.03 ± 27.9 min, respectively. All procedures were uncomplicated, and patients were discharged after overnight observation. Hospital re-admission was required in all after an average of 13.2 ± 5.2 days, due to worsening dyspnoea, pleuritic pain, and low-grade fever. At re-admission, all five patients had moderate-severe leucocytosis with neutrophilia, as well as bilateral rales and pericardial friction rub. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a mean pericardial circumferential effusion of 8 ± 2 mm, and chest X-ray was suggestive of bilateral mild pleural effusion in all. Corticosteroids were prescribed in three and NSAIDs plus colchicine in two patients. Pericardial drain placement was required in three patients after a median of 3 days, due to increasing pericardial effusion with hemodynamic impairment. The drainage tube was removed after a median of 2 days. All patients had complete resolution of symptoms and remained free from pericardial/pleural effusion within 1-month post-admission. Four of five patients had repeat ablation without recurrent Dressler’s syndrome.

Conclusions

Dressler’s syndrome occurred in older female patients, who underwent extensive ablation for AF. If promptly treated, its clinical course appears favourable with complete resolution of symptoms and pleuro-pericardial involvement.
317 Aldosterone and interleukin-6: the synergic effect in COVID-19
Authors: Campana Pasquale , Palaia Maria Emiliana , Conte Maddalena , Petraglia Laura , Ferrante Lorenzo , Dario Leosco , Parisi Valentina
Published: December 2021

Aims

Several evidence have identified the role of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the cytokine storm induced by COVID-19. Interestingly, the correlation between the serum levels of IL-6 and the plasma aldosterone has already been demonstrated in patients affected by primary aldosteronism (PA). Thus, we suppose that hyperaldosteronism may increase IL-6 levels in COVID-19.

Methods and results

We report a case of 47-year-old female Covid-19 patient who had developed severe pneumonia complicated by Guillain–Barreé syndrome (GBS). Blood test revealed high levels of IL-6 (serum IL-6: 402 pg/ml) and of its soluble receptor (soluble IL-6 receptor >1900 pg/ml) and she required mechanical ventilation for severe hypoxaemia. Furthermore, the evidence of right adrenal adenoma, resistant hypertension, severe hypokalaemia, and high serum levels of aldosterone with high aldosterone/renin ratio were also consistent with diagnosis of PA. Thus, Spironolactone was administered with rapid improvements in clinical condition. Finally, she was diagnosed with acute motor sensitive neuropathy and started the rehabilitation phase.

Conclusions

Elevated aldosterone levels in PA may stimulate IL-6 production, inducing more severe forms of COVID-19 with the development of serious complications such as GBS. Hyperaldosteronism may also contribute to the poorest prognosis of patients with secondary aldosteronism such as heart failure and COVID-19, in which elevated IL-6 levels could exert its detrimental effects, mostly on the progression of ventricular dysfunction. Further studies are necessary to evaluate therapy with mineralocorticoid receptors antagonists such as spironolactone in COVID-19.
538 Impact of prior statin use on clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients: data from tertiary referral hospital during COVID-19 pandemic in Italy
Authors: Mitacchione Gianfranco , Schiavone Marco , Curnis Antonio , Arca Marcello , Antinori Spinello , Gasperetti Alessio , Mascioli Giosuè , Severino Paolo , Sabato Federica , Caracciolo Maria , Arabia Gianmarco , D’Erasmo Laura , Viecca Maurizio , Mancone Massimo , Galli Massimo , Forleo Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Aims

Epidemiological evidence suggests that anti-inflammatory and immuno-modulatory properties of statins may reduce the risk of infections and infection-related complications. In this observational multi-centre study, we aimed to assess the impact of prior statin use on coronavirus disease (COVID-19) severity and mortality.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients hospitalized for COVID-19 were considered and enrolled in four tertiary referral hospitals (Luigi Sacco Hospital, Milan; Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome; Spedali Civili Hospital, Brescia; Humanitas Gavazzeni Hospital; Bergamo) From 23 February 2020 to 31 March 2020, in-hospital mortality and severity of COVID-19 assessed with National Early Warning Score (NEWS) were deemed primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Among 842 patients enrolled, 179 (21%) were treated with statins before admission. Statin patients showed more comorbidities and more severe COVID-19 [NEWS 4 (IQR: 2–6) vs. 3 (IQR: 2–5), P < 0.001]. Despite having similar rates of intensive care unit admission, noninvasive ventilation, and mechanical ventilation, statin users appeared to show higher mortality rates. After balancing pre-existing relevant clinical conditions that could affect COVID-19 prognosis with propensity score matching, statin therapy confirmed its association with a more severe disease (NEWS ≥ 5; 61% vs. 48%, P = 0.025) but not with in-hospital mortality (26% vs. 28%, P = 0.185). At univariate logistic regression analysis, statin use was confirmed not to be associated with mortality (OR: 0.901; 95% CI: 0.537–1.51; P = 0.692) and to be associated with a more severe disease (NEWS ≥ 5 OR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.067–2.71; P = 0.026).

Conclusions

Our results did not confirm the supposed favourable effects of statin therapy on COVID-19 outcomes. Conversely, they suggest that statin use should be considered as a proxy of underlying comorbidities, which indeed expose to increased risks of more severe COVID-19.
669 COVID-19-related acute pericarditis. A retrospective observational study
Authors: Parato Vito Maurizio , Galieni Maria Chiara , Marcelli Stefano , La Carruba Salvatore
Published: December 2021

Aims

Acute pericarditis is considered one of the cardiovascular complications of COVID-19. The published data suggest that the diagnosis of acute pericarditis in patients with COVID-19 infection may be more frequent than usually diagnosed and as a consequence, undertreated. The proposed investigation is a retrospective observational study in which 170 patients, admitted to an Intensive Care Unit because of a COVID-19 diagnosis, were analysed. All patients underwent cardiological evaluation including a bedside echocardiogram. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical implications of acute pericarditis diagnosed through the presence of pericardial effusion.

Methods and results

The proposed investigation is a retrospective observational study enrolling patients admitted to Intensive Care Unit of Madonna del Soccorso Hospital (San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy) because of a SARS-CoV-2 induced severe acute respiratory syndrome. No. 170 patients, admitted from 1 April 2020 to 30 April 2021, were enrolled. All patients presented a variable picture of bilateral interstitial pneumonia characterized by ground glass opacifications at HR-Chest CT. Some patients underwent oro-tracheal intubation and invasive ventilation. All patients underwent cardiological consultation including a transthoracic bedside echocardiogram, using ultrasound E9-GE machine (Boston, MA, USA). Demographic, laboratory and clinical data were collected for all enrolled patients (Table 1). The diagnosis of acute pericarditis was defined by: (i) different degree of pericardial effusion; (ii) C-reactive proteine elevation. All patients were divided in two groups: (1) pericarditis group (a); (2) pericarditis-free group (b). Of 170 enrolled patient, 51 were females (30%) and 119 were males (70%). Median age for all patients was 67.6 ± 13.3 [females: 70.5 (±16.2); males: 66.4 (±11.7)]. Of 170, n. 60 patients had a diagnosis of acute pericarditis (32.2%). Group A (patient with acute pericarditis) consisted of 60 patients, age 69.2 (±12.6), 39 (65%) male [age 69.3 (±10.6)], 21 (35%) female [age 69.1 (±16.0)]. Of 60, only 6 had a pericardial effusion >10 mm (10%); the remaining group A-patients (90%) had a mild pericardial effusion (<10 mm). No patient had tamponade picture. Group B (pericarditis-free patients) included 110 patients, age 66.7 (±13.7), 80 (72.7%) males [age 65.0 (±12.1)], 30 (27.3%) females [age 71.4 (±16.6)]. Group A-patients (with pericarditis) had more days of intubation and a prolonged global hospital stay compared with group B (pericarditis-free). Other demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Pericarditis is a frequent cardiovascular complication of COVID-19 (32.2% in our study). It may have clinical and prognostic implications.
230 Antiplatelet therapy and outcome in COVID-19. Results from a multi-centre international prospective registry (HOPE-COVID)
Authors: Santoro Francesco , Vitale Enrica , Nunez-gil Ivan , Guerra Federico , El-battrawy Ibrahim , Brunetti Natale Daniele
Published: December 2021

Aims

Standard therapy for Corona-virus-19 disease (COVID-19) is mainly developed for critical ill patients. Autopsy studies showed high prevalence of platelet-fibrin rich micro-thrombi in several organs. Aim of the study was to evaluate safety and efficacy of antiplatelet therapy (APT) in COVID-19 hospitalized patients and its impact on survival.

Methods and results

7824 consecutive patients with COVID-19 were enrolled in a multicentre-international prospective registry (HOPE-COVID-19). Clinical data and in-hospital complications were recorded. Antiplatelet (AP) regimen, including aspirin and other antiplatelet drugs, was obtained for each patient. During hospitalization 730 (9%) patients received AP drugs with single (93%, n = 680) or dual APT (7%, n = 50). Patients treated with APT were older (74 ± 12 vs. 63 ± 17 years, P < 0.01), more frequently male (68% vs. 57%, P < 0.01) and had higher prevalence of diabetes (39% vs. 16%, P < 0.01). Patients treated with APT compared with no APT showed no differences in terms of in-hospital mortality (18% vs. 19%, P = 0.64, Log Rank P = 0.23), need of invasive ventilation (8.7% vs. 8.5%, P = 0.88), embolic events (2.9% vs. 2.5% P = 0.34) and bleeding (2.1% vs. 2.4%, P = 0.43) but shorter duration of mechanical ventilation (8 ± 5 vs. 11 ± 7 days, P = 0.01); however, when comparing patients with APT vs. no APT and no anticoagulation therapy, APT was associated with lower mortality rates (Log Rank P < 0.01, relative risk 0.79, 95% CI: 0.70–0.94). At multivariable analysis in-hospital APT was associated with a lower mortality risk (relative risk 0.39, 95% CI: 0.32–0.48, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

APT during hospitalization for COVID-19 could be associated with lower mortality risk and shorter duration of mechanical ventilation, without increased risk of bleeding.