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ABSTRACT Primary cardiac hydatid cyst is a rare and fatal pathology, especially when involving the left ventricular free wall. A 44-year-old male was diagnosed with large intramural left ventricular hydatid cyst with wall thickness of 6 mm at the thinnest point. Cyst was accessed through pleuropericardial approach (left pleura opened, followed by entry into cyst directly through adjacent pericardium without removing the pericardial adhesions) which resulted in easy entry into the cyst, mitigating the risk of mechanical injury. This case report highlights that with detailed evaluation, cardiac hydatidosis can be addressed with off-pump technique, reducing the anaphylaxis risks and cardiopulmonary bypass-related effects.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a severe disease treated with pulmonary endarterectomy. Our study aims to reveal the differences in liquid modalities and operation modifications, which can affect the patients’ mortality and morbidity. Methods: One hundred twenty-five patients who were diagnosed with CTEPH and underwent pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) at our center between February 2011 and September 2013 were included in this retrospective study with prospective observation. They were in New York Heart Association functional class II, III, or IV, and mean pulmonary artery pressure was > 40 mmHg. There were two groups, the crystalloid (Group 1) and colloid (Group 2) liquid groups, depending on the treatment fluids. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Although the two different fluid types did not show a significant difference in mortality between groups, fluid balance sheets significantly affected the intragroup mortality rate. Negative fluid balance significantly decreased mortality in Group 1 (P0.05). Mean duration of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) for Group 1 was 6.2 days and for Group 2 was 5.4 days (P>0.05). Readmission rate to the ICU for respiratory or non-respiratory reasons was 8.3% (n=4) in Group 1 and 11.7% (n=9) in Group 2 (P>0.05). Conclusion: Changes in fluid management have an etiological significance on possible complications in patient follow-up. We believe that as new approaches are reported, the number of comorbid events will decrease.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cardiovascular surgery has undergone numerous changes over the last decades. Transcatheter technologies, endovascular procedures, hybrids, and minimally invasive surgery have undoubtedly advanced as a therapy for patients. Thus, the discussion about the training of residents in the face of new technologies in the specialty is in check. In this article, it is proposed a review to discuss the challenges in this scenario as well as the current training in cardiovascular surgery in Brazil. Methods: A comprehensive review was performed in the Brazilian Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery. All editions from 1986 to 2022 were included. The research was carried out using the search engine on the journal’s website (https://www.bjcvs.org) and an individual analysis of the titles and abstracts of each article published. Results: All the studies are summarized in the appropriate table with a discussion along this review. Conclusion: Most articles that discuss training in cardiovascular surgery in the national context are editorials and expert points of view with no observational studies evaluating the residency programs.

Abstract Surgery for endocarditis of the aorto-mitral continuity can be a challenge in case of extensive tissue destruction. We report two cases of a modified monobloc reconstruction of the aortic and mitral valves and of the aorto-mitral fibrous body. Two valve bioprostheses were sutured to each other and implanted as a composite graft. A pericardial patch sutured to the valves was employed to reconstruct both the noncoronary sinus and the left atrial roof. This technical adjustment allows adaptation to variable anatomical conditions in these particularly difficult cases.

ABSTRACT This short article discusses selected scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope features of vasa vasorum including pericytes and basement membrane of the human saphenous vein (SV) harvested with either conventional (CON) or no-touch (NT) technique for coronary artery bypass grafting. Scanning electron microscope data shows the general damage to vasa vasorum of CON-SV, while the transmission electron microscope data presents ultrastructural features of the vasa in more detail. Hence there are some features suggesting pericyte involvement in the contraction of vasa blood vessels, particularly in CON-SV. Other features associated with the vasa vasorum of both CON-SV and NT-SV preparations include thickened and/or multiplied layers of the basement membrane. In some cases, multiple layers of basement membrane embrace both pericyte and vasa microvessel making an impression of a “unit” made by basement membrane-pericyte-endothelium/microvessel. It can be speculated that this structural arrangement has an effect on the contractile and/or relaxing properties of the vessels involved. Endothelial colocalization of immunoreactive inducible nitric oxide synthase and endothelin-1 can be observed (with laser confocal microscope) in some of the vasa microvessels. It can be speculated that this phenomenon, particularly of the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, might be related to structurally changed vasa vessels, e.g., with expanded basement membrane. Fine physiological relationships between vasa vasorum endothelium, basement membrane, pericyte, and perivascular nerves have yet to be uncovered in the detail needed for better understanding of the cells’specific effects in SV preparations for coronary artery bypass grafting.

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the relationship between aortic stiffness and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: This study included 110 patients undergoing elective isolated CABG. Aortic stiffness was measured using a noninvasive oscillometric sphygmomanometer before surgery. Characteristics of patients with and without POAF were compared. Results: POAF developed in 32 (29.1%) patients. Patients with POAF were older (63.7±8.6 vs. 58.3±8.4; P=0.014). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was more common in patients with POAF (11.5% vs. 37.5%; P=0.024), whereas the frequency of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and previous coronary artery disease did not differ. C-reactive protein and cholesterol levels were similar between patients with and without POAF. Left atrial diameter was greater in patients with POAF (35.9±1.6 vs. 36.7±1.7; P

ABSTRACT Introduction: Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease and the most common indication for aortic valve replacement in adults. Aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo) with fixed autologous pericardium, also known as the Ozaki procedure, is a possible alternative treatment of AS. Autopericardial valves save the dynamics and physiological anatomy of the aortic root, however, the service life of autopericardial leaflets is limited. There is no data about factors that may influence the development of AVNeo insufficiency. Here, we assessed the effect of autopericardial leaflet symmetry on the development of aortic insufficiency after Ozaki procedure. Methods: This study included 381 patients with AS who underwent Ozaki procedure. Patients were divided into group 1 (171 patients with symmetric aortic root) and group 2 (210 patients with asymmetric aortic root). Results: The maximum observation period was up to 65 months. Sixteen cases of aortic insufficiency were detected in group 1, and 33 cases were detected in group 2. Based on the results of Cox regression, the predictors of aortic insufficiency in the late postoperative period are age and asymmetry of neocusps. According to results of Kaplan–Meier analysis, insufficiency of AVNeo in the maximum follow-up period after surgical correction of AS for group 1 patients was significantly lower than for group 2 patients (P=0.006). Conclusion: Asymmetric neocusps increase the risk of aortic insufficiency in the mid-term period after Ozaki procedure. And the older the patients at the time of surgery, the less likely they develop AVNeo insufficiency.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess actual data on the safety, effectiveness, and hemodynamic performance of Bovine Pericardium Organic Valvular Bioprosthesis (BVP). Methods: The BIOPRO Trial is an observational, retrospective, non-comparative, non-randomized, and multicenter study. We collected data from 903 patients with symptomatic, moderate, or severe valve disease who underwent BVP implants in the timeframe from 2013 to 2020 at three Brazilian institutions. Death, valve-related adverse events (AEs), functional recovery, and hemodynamic performance were evaluated at the hospital, at discharge, and six months and one year later. Primary analysis compared late (> 30 days after implant) linearized rates of valve-related AEs, such as thromboembolism, valve thrombosis, major hemorrhage, major paravalvular leak, and endocarditis, following objective performance criteria (OPC). Analysis was performed to include at least 400 valve-years for each valve position (aortic and mitral) for complete comparisons to OPC. Kaplan-Meier survival and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event analyses were also performed. Results: This retrospective study analyzed follow-up data collected from 903 patients (834.2 late patient-years) who have undergone surgery for 455 isolated aortic valve replacement (50.4%), 382 isolated mitral valve replacement (42.3%), and 66 combined valve replacement or other intervention (7.3%). The linearized rates of valve-related AEs were < 2 × OPC. One-year survival rates were 95.1% and 92.7% for aortic and mitral valve replacement, respectively. This study demonstrated an improvement in the New York Heart Association classification from baseline and hemodynamic performance within an expected range. Conclusion: According to this analysis, BVP meets world standards for safety and clinical efficacy.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Since the reduction of healthcare-associated infections has been a focus for quality patient care, this study aimed to evaluate the surgical site infection rate of children who underwent cardiovascular surgery after implementation of ozonized water system for hand and body hygiene allied to previously implemented preventive measures. Methods: Two uniformly comparable groups of pediatric patients underwent cardiovascular surgery. Group A (187) patients were operated prior to installation of ozonized water system (March 1 to August 31, 2019), and group B (214) patients were operated after installation of ozonized water system (October 1, 2019, to March 31, 2020). Ozonized water was used for professional hand hygiene and patient body hygiene. Results: There was statistical significance for surgical site infection reduction in group B (P=0.0289), with a relative risk of 0.560 (95% confidence interval = 0.298 to 0.920), inferring the risk of being diagnosed with surgical site infections in group B was 44% less than in group A. There was no statistical significance regarding mechanical ventilation time (P=0.1998) or mortality (P=0.4457). Conclusion: Ozonized water for professional hand hygiene and patient body hygiene was an adjuvant combined with traditional preventive methods to reduce the risk of surgical site infection, although no impact on hospital stay or mortality was observed.

ABSTRACT Introduction: A giant left atrium may cause respiratory dysfunction and hemodynamic disturbance postoperatively. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate clinical effects of surgical left atrial reduction in concomitant cardiac valves operations. Methods: One hundred and thirty-five patients with heart valve diseases and giant left atriums from January 2004 to July 2021 were enrolled into this research. They were divided into the folded group (n=63) and the unfolded group (n=72). Patients in the folded group had undergone cardiac valve operations concomitantly with left atrial reductions. The perioperative characteristics were compared between both groups, and subgroup analysis was performed. Results: There were five deaths in the folded group and 25 deaths in the unfolded group (P

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the accuracy of aortic dimensions measured by Revolution™ computed tomography (CT) in infants with complex coarctation of the aorta (CoA) and to further analyze the utility of the degree of CoA in predicting the risk of prolonged postoperative cardiac intensive care unit stay. Methods: A total of 30 infants with complex CoA who underwent surgical correction from January 2020 to July 2022 were retrospectively enrolled. General demographic data, preoperative imaging, and perioperative outcomes were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate predictors of prolonged postoperative cardiac intensive care unit stay, and the reliability of the CT measurements was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient. Results: All infants were divided into a mild or severe CoA group. The duration of mechanical ventilation and cardiac intensive care unit stay in the mild CoA group were significantly lower than those in the severe CoA group. After multivariate analysis, we found that the degree of CoA and age at surgery were significant predictors of prolonged postoperative cardiac intensive care unit stay. The intraclass correlation coefficient between CT measurements and intraoperative measurements was between 0.937 and 0.975, and the measurement results had good reliability. Conclusion: CT angiography can provide a comprehensive and accurate preoperative evaluation of aortic dimensions measured in infants with complex CoA. The degree of CoA is an independent risk factor for prolonged postoperative cardiac intensive care unit stay in infants with complex CoA.

ABSTRACT Joaquim de Souza Cavalcanti was a pioneer among us - the Brazilian State of Pernambuco and North-Northeast region - in cardiac surgery in its initial phase (Blalock-Taussig surgery and mitral valvulotomy), in thoracic surgery (pneumectomy, lung lobectomy and segmentectomy, lung decortication, and mediastinal tumor resection), and in numerous techniques and operative tactics in general surgery.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) and pericardial effusion are important factors affecting prognosis after cardiac surgery. Recently, it has been reported that posterior pericardiotomy (PP) can effectively prevent the occurrence of POAF and pericardial effusion. To validate these conclusions and guide clinical practice, we conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis. Methods: We searched multiple databases for manuscripts published before July 2022 on the use of PP to prevent POAF and pericardial effusion and included only randomized controlled trials. The main outcome was atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting, and secondary outcomes were included. Results: This meta-analysis included 14 randomized controlled trials with a total of 2275 patients. Meta-analysis showed that the incidence of POAF after cardiac surgery in the PP group was significantly lower than that in the control group (risk ratio=0.48; 95% confidence interval=0.33~0.69; P

ABSTRACT Introduction: We studied the effect of tricuspid valve (TV) surgery combined with surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) on operative outcomes, rehospitalization, recurrent tricuspid regurgitation, and survival of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Additionally, surgery was compared to conservative management in patients with mild or moderate tricuspid regurgitation. To the best of our knowledge, the advantage of combining TV surgery with SVR in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy had not been investigated before. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 137 SVR patients who were recruited from 2009 to 2020. Patients were divided into two groups - those with no concomitant TV surgery (n=74) and those with concomitant TV repair or replacement (n=63). Results: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use was higher in SVR patients without TV surgery (P=0.015). Re-exploration and blood transfusion were significantly higher in those with TV surgery (P=0.048 and P=0.037, respectively). Hospital mortality occurred in eight (10.81%) patients with no TV surgery vs. five (7.94%) in the TV surgery group (P=0.771). Neither rehospitalization (log-rank P=0.749) nor survival (log-rank P=0.515) differed in patients with mild and moderate tricuspid regurgitation in both groups. Freedom from recurrent tricuspid regurgitation was non-significantly higher in mild and moderate tricuspid regurgitation patients with no TV surgery (P=0.059). Conservative management predicted the recurrence of tricuspid regurgitation. Conclusion: TV surgery concomitant with SVR could reduce the recurrence of tricuspid regurgitation; however, its effect on the clinical outcomes of rehospitalization and survival was not evident. The same effects were observed in patients with mild and moderate tricuspid regurgitation.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Laser lead extraction is a well-established method for removing unwanted leads with low morbidity and mortality. In this small series of cases, we documented our experience with venous thrombosis after laser lead extraction. Methods: Retrospective data of patients who underwent laser lead extraction with postoperative axillo-subclavian vein thrombosis between May 2010 and January 2020 were analyzed. Demographic, operative, clinical, and follow-up characteristics of those patients were collected from our medical database. Results: Six patients underwent percutaneous laser lead extraction. Mean age of the patients was 64±7 years. And four of them were male. A total of 11 leads with a mean age of 92±43.8 months were extracted. Patients presented with painful arm swelling postoperatively. Conclusion: Laser lead extraction may lead to symptomatic upper extremity deep venous occlusion.

ABSTRACT Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the factors affecting major adverse event (MAE) development after full-term neonatal cardiac surgery. Methods: This study was conducted retrospectively on newborns who underwent congenital heart surgery between June 1, 2020, and June 1, 2022. MAE was defined as the presence of at least one of the following: cardiac arrest, unplanned reoperation, emergency chest opening, admission to the advanced life support system, and death. The role of blood lactate level, vasoactive inotropic score (VIS), and cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) changes in predicting MAE was investigated. Results: A total of 240 patients (50% male) were operated during the study period. The median age of patients was seven days (interquartile range 3-10 days). MAE was detected in 19.5% of the cases. Peak blood lactate levels >7 mmol/liter (area under the curve [AUC] 0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.62-0.82], P 10 was an independent risk factor (AUC 0.75, 95% CI [0.70-0.84], P 30%, high blood lactate levels, and VIS score within the 48 hours may help to predict the development of MAE in the postoperative period.

ABSTRACT Clinical data: Infant, 11-month-old, male, diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot with retrotracheoesophageal course of the brachiocephalic vein. Usual findings of Tetralogy of Fallot on physical examination. Technical description: Chest radiography showed slightly reduced pulmonary vascular markings and no cardiomegaly. Normal preoperative electrocardiogram with postoperative right bundle branch block. Usual findings of Tetralogy of Fallot on echocardiogram. Postoperative computed tomography angiography confirmed left brachiocephalic vein with anomalous retrotracheoesophageal course, configuring a U-shaped garland vein, in addition to postoperative findings of total correction of Tetralogy of Fallot. Operation: Complete surgical repair was performed with pulmonary valve commissurotomy and placement of bovine pericardial patch to solve right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, pulmonary trunk enlargement, and ventricular septal defect closure. Comments: Systemic venous drainage may show variations in patients with Tetralogy of Fallot. These abnormalities are usually of little clinical relevance, as they are asymptomatic. We presented a rare case of retrotracheoesophageal course of an anomalous left brachiocephalic vein with intraoperative diagnosis, confirmed by imaging during postoperative follow-up, without compromising clinical management or surgical approach.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Deep sternal wound infections (DSWI) are so serious and costly that hospital services continue to strive to control and prevent these outcomes. Microcosting is the more accurate approach in economic healthcare evaluation, but there are no studies in this field applying this method to compare DSWI after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This study aims to evaluate the incremental risk-adjusted costs of DSWI on isolated CABG. Methods: This is a retrospective, single-center observational cohort study with a propensity score matching for infected and non-infected patients to compare incremental risk-adjusted costs between groups. Data to homogeneity sample was obtained from a multicentric database, REPLICCAR II, and additional sources of information about costs were achieved with the electronic hospital system (Si3). Inflation variation and dollar quotation in the study period were corrected using the General Market Price Index. Groups were compared using analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression was performed to evaluate the cost drivers related to the event. Results: As expected, infections were costly; deep infection increased the costs by 152% and mediastinitis by 188%. Groups differed among hospital stay, exams, medications, and multidisciplinary labor, and hospital stay costs were the most critical cost driver. Conclusion: In summary, our results demonstrate the incremental costs of a detailed microcosting evaluation of infections on CABG patients in São Paulo, Brazil. Hospital stay was an important cost driver identified, demonstrating the importance of evaluating patients’ characteristics and managing risks for a faster, safer, and more effective discharge.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) data provided by the Brazilian Registry of Cardiovascular Surgeries in Adults (BYPASS) Registry is a Brazilian reality. Objective: To carry out a comparative exercise between the BYPASS Registry published data and data from patients operated on in a randomly chosen period (2013-2015) at Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMRP-USP). Methods: This is a retrospective study reviewing 173 electronic medical records of CABG patients from the HCFMRP-USP. These data were compared with the BYPASS Registry published data. Chi-square test was used to verify the changes within the prevalence of adequate/inadequate biochemical tests before and after surgery. The sample was divided into groups consistent with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (CPB ≤ 120 minutes and CPB > 120 minutes). For the complications, prevalence by the chi-square test was adopted. Significant P-values are < 0.05. Results: The comparative operative data of the BYPASS Registry and the HCFMRP-USP patients were quite similar, except for the isolate use of only arterial grafts, which was more frequent on HCFMRP-USP patients (30.8% vs. 15.9%), and the use of radial artery, also more frequent on HCFMRP-USP patients (48.8% vs. 1.1%) Conclusion: The comparative study suggested that the BYPASS Registry should be a reference for CABG quality control.

ABSTRACT Spinal cord ischemia due to decreased cord perfusion is a devastating complication in patients with thoracoabdominal dissection following frozen elephant trunk (FET) repair surgery. However, rare occurrence of spinal cord ischemia leading to paraplegia after long-term follow-up of FET repair has been reported. Here, we describe a case of spinal cord ischemia resulting in paraplegia nine years after hybrid total arch repair with FET. Cerebrospinal fluid drainage and serial treatment were utilized to decrease intraspinal pressure and increase blood flow to the spinal cord. Three months after the onset of paraplegia and with treatment and rehabilitation, the patient recovered to walk.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Risk factors and postoperative complications can worsen the condition of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting; some of these factors and complications are closely related to mortality rate. Objective: To describe clinical factors and outcomes related to mortality of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and on invasive mechanical ventilation. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective data analysis of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting on invasive mechanical ventilation between 2013 and 2019. Data regarding clinical characteristics, postoperative complications, intensive care unit and mechanical ventilation time, and their relationship with mortality were analyzed. Results: Four hundred seventy-two patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting entered the study. Their mean age was 62.3 years, and mean body mass index was 27.3. The mortality rate was 4%. Fifty percent of the patients who had ventilator-associated pneumonia died. Considering the patients who underwent hemotherapy and hemodialysis, 20% and 33% died, respectively. Days of intensive care unit stay and high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation score and Simplified Acute Physiology Score were significantly related to death. Conclusion: Factors and clinical conditions such as the patients’ age, associated comorbidities, the occurrence of ventilator-associated pneumonia, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and mechanical ventilation time are related to higher mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality, and it has gradually increased over time; this rise has been attributed to numerous reasons including the growing number of women with congenital heart disease who are surviving to childbearing age. Valve surgery during pregnancy is a high risk, with a fetal and maternal mortality rate of 35% and 9%, respectively. Prior knowledge about the cardiovascular disease opens up a host of options for the mother even during pregnancy, but presentation in the 3rd trimester puts both the mother and the baby at risk. Simultaneous caesarean section and maternal cardiac surgery is a suitable option for this subset of patients, and with this study we aim to assess its outcomes and feasibility. Methods: This is a retrospective study of five pregnant patients who presented with predominant symptoms of heart failure in the 3rd trimester between June 2019 and June 2021. Intraoperative and postoperative intensive care unit charts of all the patients were reviewed. Results: All five patients underwent simultaneous cesarean section and maternal cardiac surgery successfully with no fetal or maternal mortality and are doing well in the follow-up period. Conclusion: Cesarean section followed by definitive maternal cardiac surgery in the same sitting is a safe and feasible approach in the management of such patients. A well-prepared team is pivotal for a safe delivery with a cardiopulmonary bypass machine on standby. Specialized multidisciplinary care in the antepartum, peripartum, and postpartum period is essential to improve outcomes.

ABSTRACT Introduction: This study was aimed to evaluate the sex-based differences in baseline characteristics and one-year outcomes of men and women undergoing mitral valve repair for infective endocarditis. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed at Imam Ali Hospital affiliated with the Kermanshah University of Medical Science. From March 21, 2014, to October 21, 2021, all patients who underwent mitral valve repair for infective endocarditis were enrolled in this study. Data were obtained using a checklist developed based on the study’s objectives. Independent samples t-tests, paired samples t-tests, and chi-squared test (or Fisher’s exact test) were used to assess the differences between subgroups. Results: Of 75 patients, 26 were women (34.7%) and 49 were men (65.3%). Women were more likely to have diabetes mellitus (20.4% vs. 57.7%, P=0.0001), hypertension (49% vs. 80.8%, P=0.007), and hypercholesterolemia (55.1% vs. 80.8%, P=0.027). Conversely, men were more likely to have a history of smoking (38.8% vs. 7.7%, P=0.004). After one year, women had significantly higher mortality (0% vs. 7.7%, P=0.049), major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (51.0 vs. 76.9, P=0.029), mitral valve reoperation (8.1% vs. 34.6%, P=0.003), and treatment failure (30.6% vs. 61.5%, P=0.009) rates than men. Conclusion: Mortality, major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, mitral valve reoperation, and treatment failure rates were higher in women than in men. The worse outcomes in women may be explained by their more adverse clinical risk profile.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Homografts and bovine jugular vein are the most commonly used conduits for right ventricular outflow tract reconstruction at the time of primary repair of truncus arteriosus. Methods: We reviewed all truncus patients from 1990 to 2020 in two mid-volume centers. Inclusion criteria were primary repair, age under one year, and implantation of either homograft or bovine jugular vein. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate survival, freedom from reoperation on right ventricular outflow tract, and freedom from right ventricular outflow tract reoperation or catheter intervention. Results: Seventy-three patients met the inclusion criteria, homografts were implanted in 31, and bovine jugular vein in 42. There was no difference in preoperative characteristics between the two groups. There were 25/73 (34%) early postoperative deaths and no late deaths. Follow-up for survivals was 17.5 (interquartile range 13.5) years for homograft group, and 11.5 (interquartile range 8.5) years for bovine jugular vein group (P=0.002). Freedom from reoperation on right ventricular outflow tract at one, five, and 10 years in the homograft group were 100%, 83%, and 53%; and in bovine jugular vein group, it was 100%, 85%, and 50% (P=0.79). There was no difference in freedom from reoperation or catheter intervention (P=0.32). Conclusion: Bovine jugular vein was equivalent to homografts up to 10 years in terms of survival and freedom from right ventricular outflow tract reoperation or catheter intervention. The choice of either valved conduit did not influence the durability of the right ventricle-pulmonary artery conduit in truncus arteriosus.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Fuziline is one of the many antioxidants currently being tested to treat cardiac damage. In our study, histopathological and biochemical effects of fuziline were investigated in mice with dobutamine-induced heart damage in vitro. Methods: Thirty-two adult male BALB/c mice, average weight of 18-20 g, were randomly divided into four groups - Group 1 (sham, n=8), Group 2 (control, dobutamine, n=8), Group 3 (treatment 1, dobutamine + fuziline, n=8), and Group 4 (treatment 2, fuziline, n=8). Biochemical parameters and total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) values were measured. Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), NLR family, pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3), 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHDG), gasdermin D (GSDMD), and galectin 3 (GAL-3) levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method, and histopathological examination of heart tissues was performed. Results: When dobutamine + fuziline and fuziline groups were compared, troponin-I (P

ABSTRACT Introduction: Many etiological factors affect the occurrence of atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting. In this study, the relationship between cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times and the development of postoperative atrial fibrillation was examined. Methods: All patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting with the same surgical team in our clinic between September 2018 and December 2019 were prospectively included in the study, and their perioperative data were recorded. Results: One hundred and three patients who met the specified criteria were included in the study. The median age was 62 (interquartile range: 54-71) years, and 82 (79.6%) were male. The patients were divided into two groups: those who developed atrial fibrillation and those who did not. Atrial fibrillation developed in 25 of 103 patients (24.3%). All patients underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting under standard cardiopulmonary bypass. The median duration of cardiopulmonary bypass was 72 (interquartile range: 63-97) minutes in those with atrial fibrillation and 82 (61-98) minutes in those without it, and there was no statistical difference (P=0.717). The median cross-clamping time was 40 (32.5-48) minutes in those with atrial fibrillation and 39.5 (30-46) minutes in those without it. Statistically, the relationship between cross-clamping time and atrial fibrillation was not significant (P=0.625). Conclusion: Our study found no significant relationship between cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamping times and the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation. However, we believe that there is a need for large-scale and multicenter clinical studies on the subject.

ABSTRACT Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine whether plasma calcium level and C-reactive protein albumin ratio (CAR) as well as other demographic and hematological markers are related in predicting severe bleeding after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: A total of 227 adult patients who underwent CABG at our hospital between December 2021 and June 2022 were prospectively studied. Total amount of chest tube drainage was evaluated within the first 24 hours postoperatively or until the patient was re-explored for bleeding. The patients were divided into two groups - Group 1, patients with low amount of bleeding (n=174), and Group 2, patients with severe bleeding (n=53). Univariate and multivariate regression analyzes were performed to determine independent parameters related to severe bleeding within the first 24 hours after surgery. Results: When the groups were compared in terms of demographic, clinical, and preoperative blood parameters; cardiopulmonary bypass time and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were found to be significantly higher in Group 2 compared to the low bleeding group. In addition, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, calcium, albumin, and CAR were found to be significantly lower in Group 2. In multivariate analysis, calcium, albumin, CRP, and CAR were found to be independent predictors of significant association with excessive bleeding. A cut-off value of 8.7 (94.3% sensitivity and 94.8% specificity) for calcium and 0.155 (75.4% sensitivity and 80.4% specificity) for CAR predicted excessive bleeding. Conclusion: Plasma calcium level, CRP, albumin, and CAR can be used to predict severe bleeding after CABG.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Despite its survival benefits, bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) grafting is not commonly utilized due to concerns over deep sternal wound infection (DSWI). We observed the role of routine use of BITA and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) in the incidence of DSWI and associated risk factors. Methods: Between January 2010 and December 2020, 1,207 patients were treated with isolated coronary artery bypass grafting. In all cases, OPCABG was attempted, and BITA was used whenever there was a need for a second arterial graft for the left coronary artery. DSWI was defined as a wound infection requiring surgical intervention and/or the administration of antibiotics. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to model the risk of DSWI. Results: The incidence of DSWI was 0.58%. Mortality rate was higher in DSWI group than in no-DSWI group (28.57% vs. 1.25%; P 30 days (P=0.0009), left ventricular ejection fraction < 50% (P=0.0074), and emergency surgery (P=0.0002) were independent risk factors. Conclusion: The results of routine use of skeletonized BITA after OPCABG were satisfactory regarding DSWI incidence and operative mortality in a single-center experience.

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims to investigate the ability of the six-minute walk distance (6MWD) as a prognostic marker for midterm clinical outcomes three months after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), to identify possible predictors of fall in 6MWD in the early postoperative period, and to establish the percentage fall in early postoperative 6MWD, considering the preoperative baseline as 100%. Methods: A prospective cohort of patients undergoing elective CABG were included. The percentage fall in 6MWD was assessed by the difference between preoperative and postoperative day (POD) five. Clinical outcomes were evaluated three months after hospital discharge. Results: There was a significant decrease in 6MWD on POD5 compared with preoperative baseline values (percentage fall of 32.5±16.5%, P

ABSTRACT Introduction: Stroke remains a major complication of cardiac surgery. Despite all efforts, the incidence of postoperative stroke remains as high as 6%. We aimed to investigate risk factors for ischemic stroke in a contemporary cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 678 consecutive adult patients who underwent cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass in a tertiary hospital in Brazil between July 1, 2011, and December 31, 2018. The primary outcome was the rate of early (perioperative and seven-day postoperative) stroke, defined as the occurrence of the outcome during the index admission. We developed a predictive model of stroke using the Poisson regression analysis with robust variance. Results: Postoperative stroke occurred in 24 patients (3.5%), 23 (3.3%) were ischemic, and 21 (3.0%) were diagnosed in the first 72 hours after surgical procedure. After multivariate analysis, the following factors were significantly associated with stroke: previous stroke/transient ischemic attack (relative risk [RR]=2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-6.82), carotid artery disease (RR=4.0; 95% CI, 1.43-11.0), previous atrial fibrillation (RR=3.26, 95% CI, 1.31-8.1), and postoperative platelets > 200,000/mm3 (RR=2.26; 95% CI, 1.01-5.1). Conclusion: We developed a contemporary model to determine risk predictors for stroke after cardiac surgery. This model may help clinicians to identify patients at risk and could be useful in clinical practice.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Given the incipience of domestic studies on hope and spirituality in cardiology, this study evaluated adult cardiac patients’ hope in the preoperative period of cardiac surgery and its potential association with spirituality. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out at a university hospital in the State of São Paulo (Brazil). A total of 70 patients answered the Herth Hope Scale and a sociodemographic questionnaire before undergoing surgical procedure between January and October 2018. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and the Mann-Whitney U test. The R-3.4.1 software and SAS System for Windows 9.2 were also used. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Patients had a high prevalence of modifiable risk factors. Having a religion (37.53±4.57) and practicing it (38.79±4.25), regardless of its denomination and time dedicated to that religion, was associated with hope (P

ABSTRACT Introduction: The European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) II and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) are validated scoring systems for short-term risk estimation after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) risk score is originally aimed to estimate mortality in heart failure patients; however, it has showed a similar power to predict mortality after heart valve surgery. In this study, we sought to evaluate whether MAGGIC score may predict short and long-term mortality after CABG and to compare its power with EuroSCORE II and STS scoring systems. Methods: Patients who underwent CABG due to chronic coronary syndrome at our institution were included in this retrospective study. Follow-up data were used to define the predictive ability of MAGGIC and to compare it with STS and EuroSCORE-II for early, one-year, and up to 10-year mortality. Results: MAGGIC, STS, and EuroSCORE-II scores had good prognostic power, moreover MAGGIC was better for predicting 30-day (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.903; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.871-0.935), one-year (AUC: 0.931; 95% CI: 0.907-0.955), and 10-year (AUC: 0.923; 95% CI: 0.893-0.954) mortality. MAGGIC was found to be an independent predictor to sustain statistically significant association with mortality in follow-up. Conclusion: MAGGIC scoring system had a good predictive accuracy for early and long-term mortality in patients undergoing CABG when compared to EuroSCORE-II and STS scores. It requires limited variables for calculation and still yields better prognostic power in determining 30-day, one-year, and up to 10-year mortality.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Postoperative bleeding is one of the main causes of complications in cardiovascular surgery, which highlights the importance of ensuring adequate intraoperative hemostasis, providing a better patient outcome. This study aimed to improve the prevention of postoperative bleeding in the Cardiovascular Surgery Department of the Hospital Estadual Mário Covas (Santo André, Brazil) using an adapted version of the Papworth Haemostasis Checklist to assess the impact of this standardization on bleeding rate, postoperative complications, reoperation, and mortality. Methods: This is a non-randomized controlled clinical trial, whose non-probabilistic sample consisted of patients undergoing cardiac surgery in the abovementioned service within a two-year interval. The Papworth Haemostasis Checklist was adapted to the Brazilian laboratory parameters and the questions were translated into Portuguese. This checklist was used before the surgeon started the chest wall closure. Patients were followed up until 30 days after surgery. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically relevant. Results: This study included 200 patients. After the checklist, a reduction in 24-hour drain output, postoperative complications, and reoperation was observed, although statistical significance was not reached. Finally, there was a significant reduction in the number of deaths (8 vs. 2; P=0.05). Conclusion: The use of the adapted checklist in our hospital proved to be an effective intervention to improve the prevention of postoperative bleeding, with a direct impact in the number of deaths in the study period. The reduction in deaths was possible thanks to the reduction in the bleeding rate, postoperative complications, and reoperations for bleeding.

ABSTRACT Introduction: People with type 2 diabetes mellitus present multiple complications and comorbidities, such as peripheral autonomic neuropathies and reduced peripheral force and functional capacity. Inspiratory muscle training is a widely used intervention with numerous benefits for various disorders. The present study aimed to conduct a systematic review to identify inspiratory muscle training effects on functional capacity, autonomic function, and glycemic indexes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A search was carried out by two independent reviewers. It was performed in PubMed®, Cochrane Library, Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (or LILACS), Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. There were no restrictions of language or time. Randomized clinical trials of type 2 diabetes mellitus with inspiratory muscle training intervention were selected. Studies’ methodological quality was assessed using PEDro scale. Results: We found 5,319 studies, and six were selected for qualitative analysis, which was also conducted by the two reviewers. Methodological quality varied - two studies were classified as high quality, two as moderate quality, and two as low quality. Conclusion: It was found that after inspiratory muscle training protocols, there was a reduction in the sympathetic modulation and an increase in functional capacity. The results should be carefully interpreted, as there were divergences in the methodologies adopted, populations, and conclusions between the studies evaluated in this review.

ABSTRACT Coarctation of the aorta is a well-known congenital cardiovascular disorder that typically occurs within proximity to the ductus arteriosus. The ascending aorta, distal descending aorta, and abdominal aorta are segments which are prone to development of an atypical coarctation. The etiologies of atypical cases are usually associated with various types of vasculitis syndromes or underlying genetic disorders. In this report, we present a 24-year-old female patient with an ascending aortic coarctation which developed secondary to an atherosclerotic process.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ventricular septal rupture is an important high-mortality complication in the scope of myocardial infarctions. The effectiveness of different treatment modalities is still controversial. This meta-analysis compares the efficacy of percutaneous closure vs. surgical repair for the treatment of postinfarction ventricular septal rupture (PI-VSR). Methods: A meta-analysis was performed on relevant studies found through PubMed®, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (or CNKI), Wanfang Data, and VIP databases searching. The primary outcome was a comparison of in-hospital mortality between the two treatments, and the secondary outcome was documentation of one-year mortality, postoperative residual shunts, and postoperative cardiac function. Differences were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the relationships between predefined surgical variables and clinical outcomes. Results: Qualified studies (742 patients from 12 trials) were found and investigated for this meta-analysis (459 patients in the surgical repair group, 283 patients in the percutaneous closure group). When comparing surgical repair to percutaneous closure, it was found that the former significantly reduced in-hospital mortality (OR: 0.67, 95% CI 0.48-0.96, P=0.03) and postoperative residual shunts (OR: 0.03, 95% CI 0.01-0.10, P

ABSTRACT Left atrioventricular valve aneurysm is a rare condition. Here we present a rare case of partial atrioventricular septal defect with an extremely thin left atrioventricular valve aneurysm mimicking valve perforation. Preoperative echocardiography demonstrated severe left sided atrioventricular valve regurgitation on the “cleft” and leaflet perforation. But we discovered a left sided atrioventricular valve aneurysm instead of a valve perforation. The “cleft” edge and the aneurysm were closed.

ABSTRACT Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare and progressive disease with poor prognosis. Many patients progressively worsen even when using combinations of specific drugs for its treatment. Herein, we present our experience in the management of three children with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension refractory to clinical treatment who underwent Potts surgery in addition to clinical treatment.

ABSTRACT Introduction: We compared transatrial closure, tricuspid valve septal detachment, and tricuspid valve chordal detachment techniques for ventricular septal defect (VSD) closure. Methods: Patients who had VSD closure with three different techniques in our clinic between September 2016 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 117 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1, classical transatrial closure; group 2, closure with tricuspid valve septal detachment; and group 3, closure with tricuspid valve chordal detachment. The groups were evaluated by serial transthoracic echocardiography (preoperative, postoperative 1st day, postoperative 1st month). Cardiac rhythm checks and recordings were performed. Results: No residual VSD was observed in early or late periods in any of the groups whose VSD closure was performed with the three different techniques. No severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) was detected during the early and late postoperative periods of all operating procedures. When the groups were compared in terms of early/late TR after the operation (without TR+trace amount of TR and mild TR+moderate TR were compared), no statistically significant difference was found (P>0,05; P=0,969 and P>0,05; P=0,502). Conclusion: In this study, we found no statistically significant difference between three VSD closure techniques in terms of early TR, late TR, residual VSD, and permanent atrioventricular complete block during postoperative period. We hope that our results will be supported by the results of researches that are being made about this subject in large series.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) constitute the most prevalent congenital pathology, and they are a consequence of structural and functional abnormalities during fetal development. The etiology of CHD involves the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Fetal cardiac surgery aims at preventing natural pathways of CHD in utero, mitigating progression to more complex abnormalities. The goal of this review was to demonstrate the benefits and risks of fetal interventions in the two most prevalent CHDs, pulmonary stenosis and pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum, but also critical aortic stenosis and hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Methods: Original and relevant articles were selected by meta-aggregation to perform a qualitative analysis of fetal cardiac interventions for pulmonary stenosis and critical aortic stenosis. The Joanna Briggs Institute’s Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (or JBI-QARI) was used for data quality appraisal. Results: Of 61 potential articles, 13 were selected, and nine were finally included. Discussion: The present review demonstrated that fetal cardiac surgery increases right ventricular growth and hemodynamic flow in pulmonary stenosis, whereas in critical aortic stenosis it enables growth of the left ventricle and increases left ventricular pressure. However, it has a high complication rate, along with considerable morbidity and mortality. Conclusion: The benefits of fetal cardiac surgery for pulmonary stenosis and critical aortic stenosis are well-described in the literature; however, there is a significant risk of complications which can be reduced by the surgeon’s technical expertise and well-structured hospital facilities.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The objective of this study is to investigate the possible impact of coronary artery disease (CAD) on clinical outcomes of catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: Patients with AF who underwent coronary computed tomography and catheter ablation were enrolled. The presence of stenotic severity and plaque, characteristics of coronary arteries, clinical data, and adverse outcomes of catheter ablation were analysed. Results: A total of 243 patients were enrolled, 100 (41%) patients with CAD. The CHA2DS2-VASc (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 years, diabetes mellitus, stroke or transient ischemic attack, vascular disease, age 65-74 years, and sex category) score of AF patients with CAD was significantly (P