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Transit-time flowmetry (TTFM) is commonly used during coronary artery bypass grafting for intraoperative graft assessment. This study aimed to investigate whether TTFM values were predictive of graft failure and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs). Between 2011 and 2018, 1933 patients with 3-vessel coronary artery disease who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 1288 sequential venous grafts in 538 consecutive patients were measured using TTFM's 2 parameters, pulsatility index (PI) and flow (mL/min). The anastomoses were divided in the 3 groups depending on the anastomotic site: group A, first side-to-side anastomoses (n = 538), group B; second side-to-side (n = 212), group C; end-to-side (n = 538). MACCEs were related to TTFM. The mean clinical follow-up time was 64.8 ± 21.2 months. Postoperative graft patency was confirmed with multi-slice computed tomography or coronary angiography (follow-up interval: 64.8 ± 50.4 and 27.8 ± 20.5 months based on the date of examination). The 5-year survival rate was 93.7%. The mean graft flow was 59.1 ± 31.3, 41.0 ± 25.2, and 38.9 ± 22.8 mL/minute, and the PI was 2.2 ± 1.3, 2.5 ± 3.4, and 2.4 ± 2.5, in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Graft failure occurred in 23/1055 (2.2%) anastomoses. The 5-year MACCE rate was 6.9% (37/538 patients). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that graft patency was significantly lower in low MGF (p = 0.044) and high PI (p0.001). Multivariable logistic analysis showed that high PI (5; HR 2.276; 95%CI 2.188-2.406, p0.001) was an independent risk factor for MACCEs. The cutoff values for PI of sequential grafts were 3.65, 3.55, and 3.17 in groups A, B, and C, respectively for the prediction of MACCE. A high PI predicts more predictive poor outcomes of sequential venous grafts after surgery than the low mean graft blood flow.

Infective endocarditis is a life-threatening condition and is associated with embolic events. We aimed to evaluate the association of vegetation size, multiplicity, and position with cerebral embolism and late mortality in patients with infective endocarditis.We retrospectively reviewed patients with infective endocarditis who were admitted to a single institution between November 2005 and August 2017. A total of 419 patients with infective endocarditis were included in the study, 273 of whom had undergone surgery. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality, and the secondary endpoint was cerebral embolism. Multivariate Cox regression and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for 30-day mortality, late mortality, and cerebral embolism.Age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00 to 1.04), renal failure (HR 4.21; 95% CI, 2.67 to 6.65), surgery (HR 0.31; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.46), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (HR 1.08; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.15) were associated with late mortality. Vegetation size, multiplicity, and position were not significantly associated with late mortality, but a mitral vegetation size of greater than 10 mm (odds ratio 2.25; 95% CI, 1.32 to 3.84) was an independent risk factor for cerebral embolism.A vegetation size of greater than 10 mm and the mitral position were found to be significant risk factors for cerebral embolism, and for this group, early surgery might be considered to prevent cerebral embolism.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether distal aortic maximum false lumen area (MFLA) ratio predicts late aortic dilation and reintervention after open repair of acute type I aortic dissection.We analyzed 309 nonsyndromic acute type I aortic dissection patients who were treated with a repair to the proximal aorta between 1994 and 2017. In 230 patients who did not show completely thrombosed false lumen on postoperative computed tomography, the MFLA ratio (MFLA/aortic area) on the descending thoracic aorta (DTA) was measured with postoperative computed tomography. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the quartile range of MFLA ratio: low MFLA,0.62 (n = 57); intermediate MFLA, 0.62 to 0.81 (n = 116); and high MFLA, ≥0.82 (n = 57).The aortic expansion rate was significantly higher in the high MFLA group (11.1 ± 21.2 mm/y) compared with intermediate (3.0 ± 7.4 mm/y; P.01) and low (0.6 ± 6.6 mm/y; P.01) MFLA groups. High MFLA was found to be an independent risk factor for significant aortic expansion (adjusted hazard ratio, 5.26; 95% CI, 1.53-18.12; P.01) and aorta-related reintervention (hazard ratio, 4.99; 95% CI, 2.23-11.13; P.01), and the MFLA ratio was significantly related to proximal DTA reentry tears (adjusted odds ratio, 12974.3; P.001; area under curve, 0.807).A high MFLA ratio on the DTA after acute type I aortic dissection repair is associated with increased risk of late aortic reintervention and distal aortic dilation. A high MFLA ratio is strongly associated with proximal DTA reentry tears.

Background Intramural hematomas (IMHs) may originate from small intimal tears. Although most surgeries for acute type A IMH are conventionally performed solely at the proximal aorta, regardless of the primary intimal tear site, the remnant aortic remodeling stays important during the follow-up period after surgery. Methods Forty-seven patients with "pure" acute type A IMHs who underwent surgery from January 2008 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Acute type A IMH in the entire region without penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU) and aortic dissection (AD), which upon initial computed tomography (CT), can be considered as an intimal tear site, was defined as "pure" type. The maximal diameter of the aorta, maximal thickness of the IMH, and hematoma thickness ratio (HTR) of the ascending and descending aortae were measured from the preoperative computed tomographic scan. The hematoma thickness index was defined as the HTR of the descending aorta divided by that of the ascending aorta. Major adverse aortic events (MAAEs) were defined as AD, rupture, or newly developed PAU and aortic death. Predictors for postoperative MAAEs were analyzed using preoperative computed tomographic findings. Results The measurements of the descending aorta were larger and those of the ascending aorta were smaller in the MAAEs group, than in the corresponding other. The hematoma thickness index was significantly higher in the group with MAAEs, than in the group without; this variable was an independent predictor of MAAEs. During surgery, intimal tears were found in 16/47 (34%) patients. The hematoma thickness index was significantly smaller in the group with intimal tears than in the group without the tears. The aortic measurement appears to reflect the tear site. Conclusions Hematoma thickness index was an independent predictor of MAAE after acute type A IMH surgery. Long-term periodical follow-up with early reintervention may, therefore, be necessary to improve outcome in these patients. As the optimal treatment method is still controversial, inferring the location of the primary tear through the hematoma thickness index can be helpful in determining the treatment method.

Background This study aimed to evaluate the early outcomes of Perceval sutureless valves in the Korean population and to introduce a modified technique of guiding suture placement during valve deployment.Methods and Results:From December 2014 to April 2019, 121 patients (mean age: 74.7±6.2 years; 53.7% female) received a Perceval sutureless aortic valve replacement. To prevent conduction system injury, the depth of guiding suture placement (1 mm below the nadir of the annulus) was modified. All patients underwent echocardiographic evaluation at discharge and 6-12 months postoperatively, with a mean follow up of 13.7±11.2 months. Concomitant surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass grafting, and other valvular surgeries, were performed in 45.5% of cases. The mean aortic cross-clamp times for isolated and minimal procedures were 32.8±7.9, and 41.2±8.0 min, respectively. The overall transvalvular mean gradients were 13.1±3.8 mmHg at discharge and 11.5±4.7 mmHg at the last follow up. After modifying the guiding suture placement, permanent pacemaker implantation risk decreased from 9.9% to 2.5%. Cardiac-related mortality was 0.8%, with no patient developing valvular or paravalvular aortic regurgitation, valve thrombosis, or endocarditis. Conclusions Perceval valve implantation provided a significant cardiac-related survival benefit with excellent early hemodynamic and clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to determine whether adjusting the implantation depth, such as modification of the guiding suture technique, can reduce the risk of permanent pacemaker implantation.

Background This study evaluated the impact of the intimal tear location on aortic dilation and reintervention after nontotal arch replacement (non-TAR) for acute type I aortic dissection. Methods Between 2009 and 2017, 92 patients who underwent non-TAR for acute type I aortic dissection were enrolled. Intimal tears were analyzed at the supraaortic (SA) segment; segment 1, proximal descending thoracic aorta (DTA); segment 2, distal DTA; and segment 3, abdominal aorta. Aortic diameter was measured at the pulmonary artery bifurcation, celiac axis, maximal abdominal aorta, and maximal thoracoabdominal aorta using serial follow-up computed tomographic scans. The Fisher exact or χ2 test, independent t or Mann-Whitney U test, and log-rank test were used in the statistical analyses. Results The significant factors for increasing aortic diameter were the first location of intimal tear in the SA segment and segments 1 and 2. In the adjusted analysis, the first location of intimal tear in the SA segment and segment 1 was statistically significant. In the additional adjusted analysis, a segment 1 tear without SA tear was the only significant factor for increasing aortic diameter. The 5-year freedom from reintervention rate was significantly higher in patients with no intimal tear than in those with a segment 1 intimal tear with/without SA tear. Conclusions We confirmed that SA and proximal DTA intimal tears are associated with subsequent aortic dilation and reintervention. These proximal aortic intimal tears might warrant aggressive surgical treatment at the initial operation or close postoperative follow-up.

OBJECTIVES Endovascular treatment has emerged as a safe procedure for treating chronic DeBakey IIIb dissection. The objective of this study was to investigate the mid-term outcome and temporal pattern of aortic remodelling after endovascular treatment for DeBakey IIIb dissection. METHODS From 2012 to 2017, 85 patients who underwent endovascular aortic repair for DeBakey IIIb dissection were enrolled. The temporal pattern of aortic remodelling in terms of false lumen (FL) thrombosis [level 1 (∼T7), level 2 (T7 ∼ coeliac axis) and level 3 (coeliac trunk ∼ aortic bifurcation)] and aortic diameter [mid-thoracic level (T7), coeliac axis and the largest infrarenal abdominal aorta] was investigated on serial follow-up computed tomography scan. RESULTS Eighty-five patients underwent endovascular treatment during the study period. Male sex was a significant risk factor for repetitive reintervention and segments 2 and 3 FL thrombosis. The preoperative FL diameter at T7 was significantly associated with FL diameter regression. The number of visceral vessels from the FL and residual DeBakey IIIb dissection after type A repair were significant factors for FL growth at the coeliac trunk and at the largest infrarenal abdominal aorta. The overall mortality was 3 (3.6%). CONCLUSIONS Endovascular treatment is a safe strategy in the management of DeBakey IIIb dissection. However, unfavourable aortic remodelling and repetitive reintervention were expected in male patients with a large number of visceral vessels from the FL and residual DeBakey IIIb dissection after type A repair. Endovascular treatment should be cautiously considered, and close follow-up is required for these patients.

Background Many variables may affect the hemodynamic performance of the aortic valve prosthesis, and suture technique remains an important factor for determining maximum valve performance. The objective of this study was to determine the suture technique that produces better hemodynamic performance for aortic valve replacement (AVR). Methods Patients who underwent AVR between January 2015 and September 2018 in our institution were analyzed. We compared the preoperative clinical information and 1-year postoperative hemodynamic data of interrupted pledget mattress sutures (pledgeted group), interrupted nonpledget mattress sutures (nonpledgeted group), and figure-of-8 nonpledget sutures (figure-of-eight group). We compared the incidence of prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM) and cardiac adverse events among the groups and subanalyzed the PPM rate in a small aortic annulus (18 to 21 mm). Results A total of 439 patients underwent AVR (pledgeted, n = 212; nonpledgeted, n = 122; figure-of-eight, n = 105). The groups were similar in age (P = .359), sex (P = .055), underlying disease, and valve pathology. There was no difference in inhospital mortality or cardiac adverse events in each suture group (P = .282). The nonpledgeted suture had significantly lower moderate (P Conclusions The interrupted nonpledget mattress suture offers complete supraannular implantation, which reduces the incidence of PPM and results in better hemodynamic improvement after small-size AVR.

This study evaluated the effect of residual arch tears on late reinterventions and arch dilatation after hemiarch replacement for patients with acute DeBakey type I aortic dissection.Between January 1995 and October 2018, 160 consecutive patients who underwent hemiarch replacement for DeBakey type I dissection were retrospectively enrolled. They were divided into patients with (n = 73) and without (n = 87) residual arch tears. The arch tears group was subdivided into the proximal/middle arch (n = 26) and distal arch (n = 47) groups to evaluate arch growth rates according to the locations of residual arch tears. The endpoints were arch growth rate and late arch and composite events.The arch diameter increased significantly over time in patients with residual arch tears (1.620 mm/y, P.001). The increase occurred more rapidly when residual tears occurred at the distal arch than at the proximal/middle arch level (2.101 vs 1.001 mm/y). In the adjusted linear mixed model, residual arch tears or luminal communications at the distal arch level were significant factors associated with increases in the arch diameter over time. The 10-year freedom from late arch and composite event rate was significantly lower for patients with residual arch tears than for those without (82.4% vs 95.5%, P = .001; and 68.0% vs 89.3%, P = .002, respectively).Residual arch tears are significant factors associated with late arch dilatation and reinterventions, especially for patients with distal arch tears. Extensive arch replacement during the initial surgery to avoid residual arch tears may improve long-term outcomes.

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of aspirin plus either ticagrelor or clopidogrel after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) in patients with clopidogrel resistance.Between November 2014 and November 2020, 1,739 patients underwent OPCAB. Aspirin and clopidogrel treatment was initiated the day after surgery. On postoperative days 7-9, clopidogrel resistance was evaluated using a point-of-care assay. A total of 278 (18.9%) patients had clopidogrel resistance (PRU208) and were enrolled. We excluded patients with co-resistant to aspirin (n=74) and divided the remaining patients (mean age 67.4±8.5 years) into two groups (aspirin plus ticagrelor, AT group [n=102]; aspirin plus clopidogrel, AC group [n=102]), randomly assigned using a 1:1 ratio block table. Primary endpoint was the graft patency and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs; defined as the composite of cardiovascular mortality, MI, and repeat revascularization at 1 years after OPCAB), and co-primary endpoint was the graft patency rate. The data was analyzed using the intension-to-treat method.The graft occlusion rates in the AT and AC groups were 3.9% and 5.9%, respectively (p=0.52). Neither death from cardiovascular causes (1.0% vs. 2.9%; p=0.32) nor myocardial infarction showed significant differences (1.0% vs. 3.9%; p=0.18). No significant difference in the rates of major bleeding were found between the two groups (p=0.75). However, the AT group was associated with a lower rate of MACEs after OPCAB (hazard ratio, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.684-0.891, p=0.01).These results suggest that ticagrelor may be associated with reducing MACEs in patients with clopidogrel resistance after OPCAB.

Intramural hematoma may be generated by a minimal intimal tear. Most surgeries for acute type A intramural hematoma are performed on the proximal aorta alone regardless of the intimal tear site. Under the assumption that major adverse aortic events (MAAEs) would be related to the location of primary intimal tear, we reviewed preoperative computed tomography scan findings.Sixty patients with acute type A intramural hematoma who underwent surgery from January 2008 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The maximal diameter, maximal thickness of the intramural hematoma, and hematoma thickness ratio of the ascending and descending aortae were measured. MAAEs were defined as newly developed aortic dissection, rupture, newly developed penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU), enlargement of the PAU, and aortic death.The number of patients with PAU in the descending aorta (dPAU) was significantly higher in the MAAE (+) group. The MAAE (+) group showed lower measurements of the ascending aorta and higher measurements of the descending aorta than the MAAE (-) group. In the univariate analysis, dPAU, hematoma thickness ratio of the ascending and descending aortae, and descending aorta hematoma thickness8.58 mm were risk factors of MAAE. Intimal tear noted intraoperatively and ascending aorta hematoma thickness10.25 mm were protective factors of MAAE.Aortopathies (ie, PAU, ulcer-like projections, and the hematoma thickness ratio) are important clues to determine the location of intimal tear. Occurrence of MAAEs seems to be highly related to the pathology of the descending aorta. The modalities of treatment for stable acute type A intramural hematoma that do not meet the existing guidelines should be tailored to the location of the intimal tear.

Patients scheduled for cardiac surgery often have anemia and iron deficiency. We investigated the effect of the preoperative administration of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (IVFC) in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) who were due to undergo off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Patients who were due to undergo elective OPCAB between February 2019 and March 2022 who had IDA (n = 86) were included in this single center, randomized, parallel-group controlled study. The participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either IVFC or placebo treatment. Postoperative hematologic parameters [hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, serum iron concentration, total iron-binding capacity, transferrin saturation, transferrin concentration, and ferritin concentration] and the changes in these parameters during the follow-up period were the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. The tertiary endpoints were early clinical outcomes, such as the volume of mediastinal drainage and the need for blood transfusions. IVFC treatment significantly reduced the need for red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusions. Despite receiving fewer RBC transfusions, patients in the treatment group had higher levels of Hb, hematocrit, and serum iron and ferritin concentrations during weeks 1 and 12 after surgery. No serious adverse events occurred during the study period. Preoperative IVFC treatment in patients with IDA undergoing OPCAB improved the values of the hematologic parameters and iron bioavailability. Therefore, is a useful strategy for stabilizing patients prior to OPCAB.

Cardiac adipose tissue is a well-known risk factor for the recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after radiofrequency catheter ablation, but its correlation with maze surgery remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the recurrence of AF and the adipose component of the left atrium (LA) in patients who underwent a modified Cox maze (CM) III procedure. We reviewed the pathology data of resected LA tissues from 115 patients, including the adipose tissue from CM-III procedures. The mean follow-up duration was 30.05 ± 23.96 months. The mean adipose tissue component in the AF recurrence group was 16.17% ± 14.32%, while in the non-recurrence group, it was 9.48% ± 10.79% (p = 0.021), and the cut-off value for the adipose component for AF recurrence was 10% (p = 0.010). The rates of freedom from AF recurrence at 1, 3, and 5 years were 84.8%, 68.8%, and 38.6%, respectively, in the high-adipose group (≥10%), and 96.3%, 89.7%, and 80.3%, respectively, in the low-adipose group (

OBJECTIVES We aimed to simulate blood flow at an aortic dissection in an in vitro vascular model and assess the impact of the cannulation method on visceral perfusion. METHODS An aortic-dissection model with an acrylic aortic wall and silicone intimal flap was developed to study visceral perfusion under various cannulation conditions. The primary tear was placed in the proximal descending aorta and the re-entry site in the left common iliac artery. A cardiovascular pump was used to reproduce a normal pulsatile aortic flow and a steady cannulation flow. Axillary and axillary plus femoral cannulation were compared at flow rates of 3–7 l/min. Haemodynamics were analysed by using four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS Axillary cannulation (AC) was found to collapse the true lumen at the coeliac and superior mesentery arteries, while combined axillary and femoral cannulation did not change the size of the true lumen. Combined axillary and femoral cannulation resulted in a larger visceral flow than did AC alone. When axillary plus femoral cannulation was used, the visceral flow increased by 125% at 3 l/min, by 89% at 4 l/min, by 67% at 5 L/min, by 98% at 6 l/min and by 101% at 7 l/min, respectively, compared to those with the AC only. CONCLUSIONS Our model was useful to understanding the haemodynamics in aortic dissection. In this specific condition, we confirmed that the intimal flap motion can partially block blood flow to the coeliac and superior mesenteric arteries and that additional femoral cannulation can increase visceral perfusion.

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a marker of increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Owing to the increased prevalence of Afib in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, assessing the effect of Afib on postsurgical outcomes is important. We aimed to analyze the effect of preoperative Afib on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery using a large surgical database.This retrospective cohort study was based on the national health claims database established by the National Health Insurance Service of the Republic of Korea from 2009 to 2015. Diagnosis and procedure codes were used to identify diseases according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases, 10th revision.We included 1,037 patients (0.1%) who had undergone cardiac surgery from a randomized 1,000,000-patient cohort, and 15 patients (1.5%) treated with isolated surgical Afib ablation were excluded. Of these 1,022 patients, 412 (39.7%), 303 (29.2%), and 92 (9.0%) underwent coronary artery bypass, heart valve surgery, and Cox-maze surgery, respectively. Preoperative Afib was associated with higher patient mortality (p=0.028), regardless of the surgical procedure. Patients with preoperative Afib (n=190, 18.6%) experienced a higher cumulative risk of overall mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.435; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.263-2.107; p=0.034). Subgroup analysis revealed a reduced risk of overall mortality with Cox-maze surgery in Afib patients (HR, 0.500; 95% CI, 0.266-0.938; p=0.031). Postoperative cerebral ischemia or hemorrhage events were not related to Afib.Preoperative Afib was independently associated with worse long-term postoperative outcomes after cardiac surgery. Concomitant Cox-maze surgery may improve the survival rate.

Background It is unclear at present whether conventional open repair or a hybrid technique is preferential in the treatment of aortic arch diseases. Our intent was to compare early and long-term outcomes of both therapeutic strategies. Methods Between January 2002 and December 2017, 238 patients eligible for total arch replacement (TAR; 174) or hybrid arch repair (HAR; 64) qualified for study. A retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes was undertaken, with propensity matching (48 pairs). Mean follow-up duration was 60.2 months. Results In-hospital mortality rates were 4.6% (8 of 174 patients) and 6.3% (4 of 64 patients) in the TAR and HAR groups, respectively (p = 0.739). The TAR group displayed a lower incidence of permanent stroke (2.9%, 5 of 174 patients) by comparison (HAR: 12.5%, 8 of 64 patients; p = 0.004). Overall survival rates at 5 and 10 years differed significantly by group (TAR: 87.0% ± 5.5% and 81.9% ± 4.8%, respectively; HAR: 69.5% ± 7.4% and 40.8% ± 11.1%, respectively; p = 0.003). After propensity matching, in-hospital mortality (4.2% versus 4.2%, p > 0.99) and patient morbidities showed no statistically significant group differences. For patients undergoing HAR, a tendency for permanent stroke (14.5% versus 2.1%, p = 0.070) was evident. In the TAR (versus HAR) group, 10-year overall survival (74.7% versus 42.6%, p = 0.043) and reintervention-free (93.2% versus 34.0%, p Conclusions In the treatment of aortic arch diseases, HAR showed equivalent short-term outcomes compared with TAR but was limited regarding long-term outcomes beyond 5 years after the procedure. Conventional TAR remains the gold standard of therapy, and our findings suggest that the hybrid approach should be reserved for strictly selected patients with significant comorbidities.

Hexokinase 2 (HK2) is a metabolic sensor that couples glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation of mitochondria by binding to the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM), and it also has been implicated in induction of apoptotic process by regulating the integrity of OMM. When HK2 detaches from the mitochondria, it triggers permeability increase of the OMM and subsequently facilitates the cytosolic release of cytochrome c, a major apoptosis-inducing factor. According to previous studies, a harsh microenvironment created by ischemic heart disease such as low tissue oxygen and nutrients, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Under these conditions, the expression of HK2 in heart significantly decrease and such down-regulation of HK2 was correlated to the increased apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Therefore, prevention of HK2 down-regulation may salvage cardiomyocytes from apoptosis. MicroRNAs are short, non-coding RNAs that either inhibit transcription of target mRNAs or degrade the targeted mRNAs via complementary binding to the 3’UTR (untranslated region) of the targeted mRNAs. Since miRNAs are known to be involved in virtually every biological processes, it is reasonable to assume that the expression of HK2 is also regulated by miRNAs. Currently, to my best knowledge, there is no previous study examined the miRNA-mediated regulation of HK2 in cardiomyocytes. Thus, in the present study, miRNA-mediated modulation of HK2 during ROS (H2O2)-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis was investigated. First, the expression of HK2 in cardiomyocytes exposed to H2O2 was evaluated. H2O2 (500 μM) induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and it also decreased the mitochondrial expression of HK2. Based on miRNA-target prediction databases and empirical data, miR-181a was identified as a HK2-targeting miRNA. To further examine the effect of negative regulation of the selected HK2-targeting miRNA on cardiomyocyte apoptosis, anti-miR-181a, which neutralizes endogenous miR-181a, was utilized. Delivery of anti-miR-181a significantly abrogated the H2O2-induced suppression of HK2 expression and subsequent disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential, improving the survival of cardiomyocytes exposed to H2O2. These findings suggest that miR-181a-mediated down-regulation of HK2 contributes to the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes exposed to ROS. Neutralizing miR-181a can be a viable and effective means to prevent cardiomyocyte from apoptosis in ischemic heart disease.

The Trifecta valve has externally mounted leaflets, it differs from classic internally mounted valves (e.g., Carpentier-Edwards [C-E]). We evaluated post-implantation hemodynamics and clinical outcomes of these bioprostheses in small aortic annuli. From January 2015 to April 2019, 490 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement (AVR) were reviewed retrospectively. Altogether, 183 patients received 19 or 21 mm diameter C-E (n = 121) or Trifecta (n = 62) prostheses. To minimize confounding variables, we performed propensity-score matching analysis. The mean transvalvular pressure gradient (TVPG) was significantly lower in the Trifecta than in the C-E group at discharge (12.9 ± 4.8 vs. 15.0 ± 5.3 mmHg, p = 0.044). TVPG change over time was not significantly different between groups (p = 0.357). Left ventricular mass index decreased postoperatively (reduction: C-E, 28.1%, Trifecta, 30.1%, p = 0.879). No late mortality, severe patient–prosthesis mismatch, moderate-to-severe paravalvular leakage, structural valve degeneration, or valve thromboses were observed. Freedom from valve-related events at 3 years were similar for C-E (97.9% ± 2.1%) and Trifecta (97.7% ± 2.2%) patients (log-rank p = 0.993). Bioprosthesis design for small annuli significantly affected TVPG immediately after AVR. However, hemodynamics over time and clinical outcomes did not differ between the two designs.

The study objective was to examine the long-term fate of aortic diameter expansion at 4 cardiac regions (annulus, sinus, ascending aorta, and proximal arch) after wrapping or replacement during aortic valve surgery of the moderately dilated ascending aorta.From January 1995 to December 2018, 964 consecutive patients who underwent aortic valve replacement at our institution were reviewed. Of them, 204 (mean age, 60.7 ± 7.4 years) underwent ascending aorta wrapping (n = 96) or replacement (n = 108) for a moderately dilated ascending aorta (40 to 55 mm). The overall fate of the aortic diameter was analyzed with a linear mixed-effect model. The median follow-up duration was 7.1 years.After propensity score matching, the baseline maximal ascending aortic diameter median value was 47.3 ± 3.1 mm and 49.4 ± 13.5 mm in the wrapping and replacement groups, respectively. The annulus, sinus, and ascending aorta did not redilate in either group. The proximal aortic arch diameter significantly increased over time (0.343 mm/year; P = .006) in the wrapping group but not in the replacement group (0.066 mm/year; P = .649). Multivariable competing risk analysis identified the initial ascending aorta diameter at the wrapping procedure as an independent risk factor of proximal arch redilation (0.071 ± 0.037, P .001). The cutoff value was an initial ascending aorta diameter of 47.2 mm for the prediction proximal arch redilation (area under the curve, 0.703; P = .014).Aortic wrapping and replacement may be long-term durable treatment options in patients with a moderately enlarged ascending aorta. We suggest careful evaluation of redilation in the proximal arch after an aorta wrapping procedure.

To introduce complete thoracic aorta remodeling as a new therapeutic target of thoracic endovascular aortic repair for chronic DeBakey IIIb aneurysms, and analyze the predictors for complete thoracic aorta remodeling. From 2012 to 2017, 75 patients underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair for chronic DeBakey IIIb aneurysms. Complete thoracic aorta remodeling was defined as thoracic false lumen thrombosis with false lumen diameter5 mm down to T-10 level. Major adverse aortic events were defined as aortic-related mortality, open conversion, and false lumen recanalization after thoracic false lumen thrombosis. Of the 75 patients included in this study, 60 (80.0%) demonstrated thoracic false lumen thrombosis; among them, overall mortality, open conversion, or false lumen recanalization after thoracic false lumen thrombosis occurred in two (3.3%), one (1.7%), and five (8.3%) patients, respectively. Nineteen (25.3%) of 75 patients who demonstrated complete thoracic aorta remodeling had no major adverse aortic events during follow-up. The number of visceral branches from the false lumen and residual intima tears were significant risk factors for complete thoracic aorta remodeling (HR 0.627, p = 0.041 and HR 0.754, p = 0.042). In chronic DeBakey IIIb aneurysms, complete thoracic aorta remodeling may be the ideal target for endovascular treatment rather than false lumen thrombosis. Additional procedures to eliminate the obstacles to complete thoracic aorta remodeling (number of visceral branches from the false lumen and residual intimal tears) and close follow-up after thoracic false lumen thrombosis may be needed to achieve the optimal outcome.

We compared the long-term outcomes and difference in dilatation rates of the ascending aorta after aortic valve (AV) replacement (AVR) between bicuspid and tricuspid AV patients, and evaluated risk factors associated with ascending aorta dilatation and aortic events during the follow-up. Of 1,127 patients who underwent AVR from 1995 to 2015, 259 patients with a dilated ascending aorta (≥40 mm in diameter) were included. The patients were divided into those with bicuspid (group bicuspid aortic valve [BAV], n = 105) and with tricuspid (group tricuspid aortic valve [TAV], n = 154) AV, and a propensity score-matched analysis was performed to match 98 patients in each group. The differences in the dilation rate of the ascending aorta and long-term outcomes were analyzed. Risk factors for ascending aorta dilatation, mortality, and aortic events were identified. Follow-up was completed in 100% of patients with a median follow-up duration of 106.1 [68.8, 163.0] months. The early clinical outcomes and dilation rate of the ascending aorta were similar between the groups. Overall survivals up to 15 years postoperatively were similar between groups BAV and TAV (p = 0.223). Aortic events occurred in 6 patients (groups BAV vs TAV, 2 vs 4;p = 0.678). Preoperative ascending aorta diameter showed a linear relationship with the dilatation rate of ascending aorta (p0.001) and was related to progressive aortic dilatation and aortic events (odds ratio: 1.25, p0.001 and hazard ratio = 1.56, p0.001, respectively). In conclusion, the long-term outcomes and ascending aorta dilatation rate were similar between the BAV and TAV patients up to 15 years after AVR. Bicuspid AV was not a risk factor of mortality or aortic events.

The relationship between functional mitral stenosis (MS) after mitral valve (MV) repair and long-term clinical outcomes is not fully understood. Therefore, we reviewed an institutional series to identify the determinants of functional MS and its effect on long-term clinical outcomes after MV repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation.Between January 1990 and December 2015, 792 patients who underwent MV repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation were retrospectively enrolled and divided into 2 groups: functional MS (n = 192) (≥5 mm Hg mean diastolic pressure gradient across the MV) and nonfunctional MS (n = 600) (5 mm Hg mean diastolic pressure gradient). Mean follow-up was 11.6 ± 5.8 years.After propensity-score matching, patients' characteristics were comparable between groups (n = 192/group). At 20 years, the functional MS group had significantly lower rates of freedom from new-onset atrial fibrillation (73.0% ± 5.6% versus 93.2% ± 2.3%; P = .003), overall survival (72.1% ± 4.6% versus 85.6% ± 4.3%; P = .010), and freedom from MV reoperation (82.8% ± 4.1% versus 92.5% ± 4.2%; P = .019) than the nonfunctional group. The functional MS group also had a significantly greater postoperative left atrial volume index and tricuspid regurgitation grade. A small left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (hazard ratio = 0.975; 95% confidence interval, 0.955-0.996; P = .022) and annuloplasty ring (hazard ratio = 0.757; 95% confidence interval, 0.685-0.837; P.001) were independent risk factors for functional MS.A small left ventricle and annuloplasty ring increased the risk for functional MS after MV repair and was associated with progressive left atrial enlargement and tricuspid regurgitation exacerbation. As a result, functional MS increased the risk for new-onset atrial fibrillation, MV reoperation, and decreased long-term survival.

Background We introduce a new endovascular procedure for favorable aortic remodeling in patients with chronic DeBakey IIIb (CDIIIb) aneurysms and present outcomes. Methods This study included 19 patients who underwent stentless thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for CDIIIb aneurysms between 2014 and 2016. Stentless TEVAR is defined as an endovascular procedure involving closure of communicating channels or obliteration of the false lumen itself using various materials. Thoracic false lumen thrombosis was defined as there was no flow in the false lumen of the thoracic aorta. Aortic diameter was measured at 3 levels (left subclavian artery, pulmonary artery bifurcation, and celiac axis). Results Fifteen of 19 (78.9%) patients demonstrated thoracic false lumen thrombosis. There was no mortality, and the mean follow-up duration was 16.8 months. False and true lumen diameters at the left subclavian and pulmonary artery levels significantly changed after the procedure (false lumen: 22.6 ± 16.6 versus 16.1 ± 14.4 mm, 23.2 ± 14.6 versus 18.0 ± 13.2 mm, p = 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively; true lumen: 22.7 ± 8.7 versus 27.9 ± 6.3 mm, 19.0 ± 8.3 versus 24.3 ± 6.7 mm, p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The number of visceral stent grafts and preoperative true lumen diameter at the pulmonary artery were independent predictors for thoracic false lumen thrombosis (hazard ratio, 3.445, 95% confidence interval, 1.494 to 7.946; p = 0.004; and hazard ratio, 1.106; 95% confidence interval, 1.029 to 1.189; p = 0.006, respectively). Conclusions Stentless TEVAR seems to be a safe procedure and enables favorable aortic remodeling. Thus, this technique can be useful in a selected group of patients with CDIIIb aneurysms.

A previous study showed that small G protein signaling modulator 3 (SGSM3) was highly correlated with Cx43 in heart functions and that high levels of SGSM3 may induce Cx43 turnover through lysosomal degradation in infarcted rat hearts. Here, we investigated the protective effects of kenpaullone on cardiomyocytes following H2O2-induced oxidative stress mediated by the interaction of SGSM3 with Cx43. We found that the gap junction protein Cx43 was significantly down-regulated in an H2O2 concentration-dependent manner, whereas expression of SGSM3 was up-regulated upon H2O2 exposure in H9c2 cells. The effect of kenpaullone pretreatment on H2O2-induced cytotoxicity was evaluated in H9c2 cells. H2O2 markedly increased the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), while kenpaullone pretreatment suppressed LDH release in H9c2 cells. Moreover, kenpaullone pretreatment significantly reduced ROS fluorescence intensity and significantly down-regulated the level of apoptosis-activating genes (cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9 and cytochrome C), autophagy markers (LC3A/B), and the Cx43-interacting partner SGSM3. These results suggest that kenpaullone plays a role in protecting cardiomyocytes from oxidative stress and that the turnover of Cx43 through SGSM3-induced lysosomal degradation underlies the anti-apoptotic effect of kenpaullone.

The efficacy and safety of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) in emergency revascularization remains controversial despite its widespread use. The aim of our study was to examine the applicability and safety of OPCAB in patients who were indicated for emergency surgery.This single-center study reviewed the indication, operative data, and early and long-term outcomes of 113 patients (mean age, 67.2±9.0 years; logistic EuroSCORE, 14.3±13.5) who underwent emergency OPCAB from January 2003 to December 2014 and were followed up (94.6% completion rate) for a mean 51.1±40.3 (range, 1-135) months.Emergency OPCAB was associated with favorable surgical outcomes (number of distal anastomoses per patient, 3.04±0.87; internal thoracic artery (IMA) use, 98.2%; complete revascularization, 79.6%) and in-hospital outcomes (mortality, 5.3%; low cardiac output syndrome, 5.3%; stroke, 2.7%; pulmonary complications, 8.8%; renal failure, 11.5%). Only five patients (4.4%) required on-pump conversion. The 10-year outcomes were also acceptable (survival, 75.4%±5.6%; major cerebral and cardiovascular events, 52.1%±1.8%). The multivariate risk factors for late mortality were peripheral vascular disease (HR 2.95, 95% CI: 1.11-11.83), cardiogenic shock (HR 3.67, 95% CI: 1.35-9.96), and incomplete revascularization (HR 3.41, 95% CI: 1.06-14.26). When patients were separated by whether the procedure was performed early (2010) or late (≥2010) in the study period, the late period cohort had better outcomes despite containing higher-risk patients.Our study suggests that emergency OPCAB can be performed safely and effectively with good hospital outcomes and adequate long-term results. OPCAB strategy can be considered as a good option in emergency revascularization.

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate mid-term patency and clinical outcomes according to the proximal anastomosis site after off-pump coronary artery bypass using the radial artery (RA). METHODS From January 2001 to December 2015, 1124 patients who underwent isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass using the RA were reviewed and divided into 2 groups: the composite Y-graft (n = 1014, Y group) and aortocoronary graft (n = 110, Aorta group). Graft patency was assessed by computed tomography or coronary angiography. RESULTS Patients receiving Y-grafts had a greater number of RA anastomoses (1.79 ± 0.68 per patient vs 1.40 ± 0.51 per patient, P

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the impact of remnant re-entries in arch branches on postoperative change in the aortic arch and descending aortic diameters and the rate of major adverse aortic events. Methods Between January 2010 and December 2016, 249 patients underwent surgery for acute Type I aortic dissection. Patients who underwent total arch replacement, had Marfan syndrome or had intramural haematoma were excluded. Seventy-two patients with predischarge and follow-up computed tomography scans were enrolled. Patients with and without re-entries in the arch branches after surgery were assigned to the supra-aortic entry (SAE, n = 21) and no supra-aortic entry (n = 51) groups, respectively. Diameters were measured at 7 levels: the innominate artery, left common carotid artery, left subclavian artery, 20 mm distal to the left subclavian artery, pulmonary artery bifurcation, coeliac axis and maximal diameter of the descending thoracic aorta. Results Growth rates at the levels of the pulmonary artery bifurcation and 20 mm distal to the left subclavian artery were significantly higher in the SAE group than in the no supra-aortic entry group. The rate of freedom from major adverse aortic events (annual growth >5 mm or maximal diameter of the descending thoracic aorta >50 mm) at 5 years was significantly higher in the no supra-aortic entry group than in the SAE group. Conclusions Remnant SAE leads to unfavourable aortic remodelling after acute Type I aortic dissection repair.

Background This study investigated the consequences of recurrent mitral regurgitation (MR) after mitral valve (MV) repair in patients with degenerative MR and risk factors for recurrence.Methods and Results:From January 1990 to December 2015, 792 patients underwent MV repair due to degenerative MR. Recurrent MR was defined as moderate-to-severe MR on follow-up echocardiography. Mean follow-up duration was 8.71±5.58 years. During the follow-up period, MR recurred in 133 (16.8%) patients, and the MR recurrence-free rate at 20 years was 77.5±2.0%. In the recurrence group, the degree of MR decreased in 8 (6.0%) patients and was aggravated in 46 (34.6%) patients. Recurrent MR was associated with increased mortality and adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling. Independent risk factors for MR recurrence were MV repair performed before 2000, preoperative atrial fibrillation, high LV end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD), prolapse of the isolated anterior leaflet or multiple segments, and absence of ring annuloplasty. Predictors of MR progression were high LVEDD and repair without artificial chordae implantation. Conclusions Recurrent MR after MV repair in patients with degenerative MR showed a tendency to progress and was associated with increased mortality and adverse LV remodeling. Early referral for MV repair before development of atrial fibrillation and LV enlargement may reduce the risk of MR recurrence. Moreover, artificial chordae implantation and ring annuloplasty may assure the long-term durability of MV repair.

Background The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of previous percutaneous coronary intervention with stent on long-term outcomes after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Methods Between January 2001 and December 2014, 1,668 patients with triple-vessel disease undergoing OPCAB were reviewed and divided into 2 groups. The no-stent group (n = 1,409) included patients who underwent OPCAB as a primary revascularization procedure and the stent group (n = 259) included patients with a history of percutaneous coronary intervention with stent. The mean follow-up duration was 5.32 ± 3.39 years. Results After propensity score matching, characteristics of both groups were comparable (n = 259 in each group). In-hospital mortality (n = 3 [1.2%] in both groups; p > 0.999) was similar. The 14-year overall survival rate (75.6% ± 6.6% in the no-stent group versus 71.9% ± 8.5% in the stent group; p = 0.917) and freedom from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) rate (68.3% ± 6.6% versus 54.6% ± 8.5%; p = 0.239) were also similar. However, freedom from target vessel revascularization (TVR) rate at 14 years was significantly higher in the no-stent group (97.2% ± 1.7% versus 76.9% ± 6.5%; p 0.001). The independent risk factor for late TVR was in-stent restenosis (hazard ratio, 3.355; 95% confidence interval, 1.925 to 5.848; p 0.001) and it also was a risk factor for MACCEs (hazard ratio, 1.645; 95% CI, 1.105 to 2.448; p = 0.014). Conclusions Previous intracoronary stenting does not increase long-term mortality, but grafting to previously stented target vessels with in-stent restenosis increases the risk of repeat TVR and MACCEs.

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the changes in postoperative aortic regurgitation (AR) and determine the predictors of significant AR and root reoperation after ascending aortic replacement (AAR) in patients with acute type A aortic dissection. Methods From January 1995 to December 2017, 271 consecutive patients underwent valve/root-preserving AAR (n = 225) and root replacement (n = 46). AR grade trend over time was analyzed by the ordinal mixed-effects model. Significant AR was defined as AR grade ≥3+ during the follow-up period. Predischarge and follow-up echocardiograms were obtained in 95.6% and 88.8% of enrolled patients, respectively. Results At predischarge, postoperative ≥2+ AR was present in 20 (9.3%) and 1 (2.3%) patients in the AAR and root replacement groups, respectively. With increasing time after surgery, the grade of AR increased. At 10 years, 4.6% of patients had developed 3+ or 4+ AR. Considering death as the competing risk, the 10-year cumulative incidence of significant AR was significantly higher in the AAR than in the root replacement group (12.3% vs 2.2%; P = .047). The risk of root reoperation at 10 years was not different between the groups (P = .118). On Cox analysis, preoperative ≥3+ AR (P = .002), postoperative ≥2+ AR (P = .040), and false to true lumen ratio (P = .005) were associated predictors of significant AR. Conclusions Although valve/root-preserving AAR demonstrated reasonable long-term outcomes when compared with root replacement, preoperative ≥3+ AR, postoperative ≥2+ AR, and high false to true lumen ratio significantly increased the risk of significant AR. Therefore, careful echocardiographic surveillance may be warranted in patients with postoperative ≥2+ AR and small true lumen.

Acute type B aortic dissection (ATBAD) with malperfusion is a devastating complication. Especially, the spinal cord ischemia with ATBAD is very rare (3% of total malperfusion cases). Despite the possibility of various arterial involvement in ATBAD, cases of monoplegia due to spinal cord ischemia are extremely rare. Furthermore effective treatments for malperfusion induced spinal cord ischemia have not been established yet. We presented a case of a 62-year-old man with a sudden onset of chest pain and numbness and weakness of the left lower extremity. Follow up CT demonstrated ATBAD starting from below the left subclavian artery to the level of iliac bifurcation without distal reentry, involving malperfusion of the left renal, left intercostal and left lumbar arterial branches. Deciding on endovascular fenestration approach under considering his condition and comorbidity, the right common femoral artery was catheterized and a 5Fr sheath catheter was positioned into the true lumen (Cook Medical, IN, USA). After confirming the catheter was within the compressed true lumen, then aortic fenestration ballooning was performed to enlarge a tearing site by using 12-mm and 20-mm diameter balloons (Boston Scientific, Natick, Mass). The final angiography was demonstrated increased flow in the true lumen of descending aorta with good patency of the left renal artery where no flow had been observed. And enhanced CT confirmed the recovery of flow to the left intercostal and left lumbar branches. Finally the patient achieved the complete recovery of sensory and motor function of his left leg (His preoperative motor grade was 5/0). On postoperative day 3, he walked using a q-cane and now is being followed up on an outpatient basis without no complications. So, we would like to introduce this rare care of left lower monoplegia with ATBAD and suggest endovascular fenestration can be an effective treatment option to treat spinal cord ischemia in ATBAD.

Long-term outcomes of mitral valve replacement (MVR) recipients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) remain unclear. We determined the effect of concomitant PH on the clinical outcomes and late-onset progression of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after MVR for rheumatic mitral stenosis.We retrospectively reviewed 394 patients who underwent MVR between January 2000 and December 2013. PH was defined as systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP)50 mm Hg. Changes in echocardiographic parameters (preoperative to postoperative), TR progression (grade ≥ II), and long-term survival were evaluated according to the presence of PH at MVR (non-PH, n = 322; PH, n = 72).The 10-year overall survival rate was significantly lower in the PH group (79.7% vs 90.7%, P = .04), whereas the rate of freedom from TR progression was similar between groups (76.9% vs 80.5%, P = .373). High preoperative sPAP and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) did not affect TR progression. However, substantial postoperative reductions in sPAP and RVSP protected against TR progression (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 0.966 [0.942-0.991], P = .008, and 0.973 [0.960-0.986], P.001, respectively). The 10-year rate of freedom from TR progression was significantly higher in patients with substantial sPAP and RVSP reductions (sPAP, 84.2% vs 70.6%, P = .003; RVSP, 84.9% vs 71.0%, P .001).Although concomitant PH at MVR is associated with poor long-term survival, adequate sPAP and RVSP reduction can prevent TR progression even in patients with severe PH preoperatively. Therefore, we suggest careful monitoring of PAP and RVSP after MVR and should make an effort to reduce postoperative PAP.

Background With the increasing use of endovascular aortic repair, secondary interventions after aortic stent grafting remain a concern. We retrospectively reviewed open conversion cases with complications following endovascular abdominal aortic repair (EVAR). Methods EVAR due to infra-renal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) was performed in 566 patients between January 1994 and May 2015. A retrospective review of EVAR requiring late open conversion (>1 month after implant) was conducted. Patient demographics, reasons for conversion, operative techniques, operative outcomes, and late survival were reviewed. Results Thirty of these patients (5.3%) required late conversion to open repair. The median interval to open conversion after EVAR was 48.6 months (range: 2-190 months). Indications of open conversion included type I endoleak (N.=10), stent fracture (N.=4), type V endoleak (N.=4), stent graft infection (N.=4), stent limb obstruction (N.=3), stent migration (N.=3), and type II endoleak (N.=2). Twenty-four operations were elective, and six operations (20%) were emergent due to aneurysm rupture. Compete endograft removal was performed in 14 patients (46.6%) and 16 endografts were partially left in situ. The hospital mortality rate was 10% (3/30) overall, 33.3% in the emergency group and 0% the elective group (P=0.03). Overall survival rate at a mean follow-up of 35 months was 80.7%, with a tendency towards lower survival rate after emergency compared with elective open conversion (89.3% vs. 44.4%; P=0.06). Conclusions Open conversion due to late complications after EVAR seems to be a lifesaving procedure with acceptable initial and mid-term outcomes. Elective conversion has better outcomes compared to those in an emergency setting. Therefore, lifelong surveillance is warranted, and an early decision for open conversion, if indicated, is necessary to achieve the best outcomes.

Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate the locational impact of a luminal communication on aortic diameter changes and reintervention after surgical repair of acute type I aortic dissection. Methods Between 2009 and 2017, 304 patients underwent operation for acute type I aortic dissection. Among them, 93 patients were enrolled. The luminal communications were analysed in segment 1 (the proximal descending thoracic aorta), segment 2 (the distal descending thoracic aorta) and segment 3 (the abdominal aorta). The aortic diameter was measured at the pulmonary artery bifurcation, coeliac axis, maximal abdominal aorta and maximal thoraco-abdominal aorta using serial follow-up computed tomography scans. The linear mixed model was used, and the rate of freedom from reintervention was analysed. Results In the adjusted analysis, the initial diameter of the maximal abdominal aorta and the first luminal communication in segment 1 was statistically significant. However, the slope value of the maximal abdominal aorta was smaller than that of the first luminal communication in segment 1 (0.024 vs 0.198). The 3-year freedom from reintervention rate was significantly higher in patients without a luminal communication than in those with an initial luminal communication in segment 1 (96% vs 47%, log rank, P = 0.003). Conclusions A luminal communication at the proximal descending thoracic aorta (segment 1) is a significant factor for an increasing aortic diameter and reintervention after surgical repair of acute type I aortic dissection.

Background: Our aim was to compare the efficacies of conventional open thoracotomy and hybrid endovascular technique in patients with descending thoracic aortic aneurysms involving the distal arch. Methods: Between January 2005 and December 2015, 125 consecutive patients with descending aneurysms involving distal arch underwent open repair via thoracotomy (n=79) or zone 1/2 hybrid endovascular repair (n=46). Surgeries entailing total arch replacement by elephant trunk technique (with sternotomy) and Zone 0 hybrid arch repairs were excluded. Early and late outcomes were compared using propensity scores and inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting (IPTW). Results: In-hospital mortality rates for open repair (10.1%) and hybrid repair (6.5%) did not differ significantly (P=0.49). Major adverse outcomes included stroke (11.4% vs . 8.7%), paraplegia (2.5% vs . 0.0%) and lung complications (19.0% vs . 6.5%). Once adjusted by IPTW, hospital mortality risk for conventional open repair (OR =4.396; P=0.086) tended to be higher, and there was significant risk of lung complications (OR =4.372; P=0.025). However, both techniques were similar in terms of 30-day mortality (OR =2.745; P=0.257), stroke (OR =2.134; P=0.217), paraplegia (OR =3.639; P=0.407), and midterm survival (OR =1.05; P=0.90). Freedom from reintervention at 10 years was significantly better for open repair (85.2%±7.1%) compared with the hybrid approach (46.3%±11.0%; OR =0.13; P Conclusions: Hybrid arch repair conferred a significantly lower incidence of pulmonary complications, without benefitting perioperative mortality and stroke. However, open repair proved more reliable, showing greater durability. Long-term investigations are needed to confirm the viability and safety of hybrid repair as an alternative treatment in this setting.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of axillary artery cannulation for early embolic stroke and operative mortality, we retrospectively compared the outcomes between patients with or without axillary artery cannulation during open aortic arch repair with circulatory arrest. Methods Between January 2004 and December 2017, 468 patients underwent open aortic arch repair with circulatory arrest using antegrade cerebral perfusion and were divided into 2 groups according to the site of arterial cannulation: the axillary artery (axillary group, n = 352) or another site (nonaxillary group, n = 116) groups. Embolic stroke was defined as a physician-diagnosed new postoperative neurologic deficit lasting more than 72 hours, generally confirmed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Results After propensity score matching, the patients' characteristics were comparable between the groups (n = 116 in each). The incidences of acute type A dissection, aortic rupture, shock, or emergency operation were similar between groups. The incidence of early embolic stroke was significantly lower in axillary group (n = 3 [2.6%] vs n = 10 [8.6%]; P = .046). Also, 30-day mortality (n = 3 [2.6%] vs n = 10 [8.6%]; P = .046) and in-hospital mortality (n = 3 [2.6%] vs n = 11 [9.5%]; P = .027) occurred significantly lower in the axillary group. Conclusions Axillary artery cannulation reduced the early embolic stroke and early mortality after open arch repair with circulatory arrest. Axillary artery cannulation as the arterial cannulation site during open arch repair with circulatory arrest may be helpful in preventing embolic stroke and reducing early mortality.

The long-term benefits of multiple arterial revascularization (MAR) in coronary artery bypass grafting remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical outcome, graft patency, and need for subsequent target revascularization of radial artery (RA) versus saphenous vein graft in patients undergoing MAR in both patient- and graft-specific analyses.Between 2001 and 2016, we followed 1654 patients over a median of 7.4 years in a prospective, longitudinal study. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, graft patency, and need for revascularization were assessed through clinical manifestation, coronary angiography, or coronary computed tomography and analyzed with propensity score-adjusted Cox regression, general estimating equation, and competing risk models.Bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) grafting was performed in 910 patients (55.0%), and 744 patients (45.0%) received a left internal thoracic artery graft together with at least 1 RA graft. Patients receiving BITA, of whom 187 received an additional RA, showed improved survival (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38-0.86; P = .009), major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular event-free survival (hazard ratio, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.23-0.46; P .001), and lower need for repeat revascularization (subhzhard ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.39-0.90; P = .015). In a subgroup of 512 patients, comparing 419 RA with 487 saphenous vein grafts, RA grafting showed a lower risk for graft occlusion (odds ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.47-0.73; P .001) and target revascularization (subhazard ratio, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.43-0.78; P .001).MAR with BITA and RA grafting revealed to be the recommended strategy in coronary artery bypass grafting to achieve long-term beneficial results. The use of saphenous vein graft showed less favorable outcomes regarding patency and the need for target-vessel revascularization.

Objective The study objective was to evaluate the differential impact of intimal tear location on aortic dilation and reintervention after total arch replacement for acute type I aortic dissection. Methods From 2009 to 2016, 85 patients underwent total arch replacement for acute type I aortic dissection with residual dissected thoracoabdominal aorta. Forty patients (47%) underwent serial computed tomography scans that were sufficient for analysis. Among these, 14 (35%) underwent total arch replacement via the frozen elephant trunk procedure. Intimal tears were analyzed (size and number) at 3 different levels (level 1, proximal descending thoracic aorta; level 2, distal descending thoracic aorta; level 3, abdominal aorta). Aortic diameter was measured at 4 levels (pulmonary artery bifurcation, celiac axis, maximal abdominal aorta, and maximal thoracoabdominal aorta) using serial follow-up computed tomography scans. The linear mixed model for a repeated-measures random intercept and slope model was used. The rate of freedom from reintervention was analyzed. Results In the unadjusted analysis, initial diameter of pulmonary artery bifurcation level, number of intimal tears, presence of 3- or 5-mm intimal tears, and frozen elephant trunk were not significant factors for aortic dilation or shrinking. The significant factors for aortic dilation were intimal tear location and number of visceral branches from the false lumen. The 3-year freedom from reintervention rate was significantly higher in patients with intimal tears 3 mm or greater at level 3 than in those with tears at level 1 (94.1% vs 37.5%, log-rank, P Conclusions Intimal tear in the proximal descending thoracic aorta is the most important factor for aortic dilation and reintervention in acute type I aortic dissection after total arch replacement.

There is no consensus as to whether a median approach or a lateral approach is better for distal aortic arch aneurysms with distal extensions. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of these two approaches for distal aortic arch aneurysms with distal extensions.From January 2001 to December 2017, 212 consecutive patients with distal aortic arch aneurysms with distal extensions underwent surgery using different approaches: hemiarch and descending thoracic aneurysm replacement through thoracotomy (group 1, n = 91); and total arch and descending thoracic aneurysm replacement through sternotomy (group 2, n = 121). Early and late outcomes were compared using scores and inverse probability of treatment adjustments to reduce treatment selection bias.The in-hospital mortality was 9.89% (9 of 91) in the thoracotomy group and 2.48% (3 of 121) in the sternotomy group (p = 0.02). The sternotomy group had a lower incidence of permanent stroke (2.48%, 3 of 121) compared with the thoracotomy group (10.99%, 10 of 91, p = 0.01). After adjustment, patients who underwent thoracotomy were at a greater risk of hospital mortality (odds ratio 5.0, p = 0.01), permanent stroke (odds ratio 6.83, p0.01), and pneumonia (odds ratio 2.99, p = 0.04), compared with patients who underwent sternotomy. The overall survival at 10 years was 69.8% ± 7.0% for the thoracotomy group and 83.0% ± 5.0% for the sternotomy group (unadjusted p = 0.049, adjusted p = 0.034).The sternotomy approach showed better outcomes in terms of operative mortality, stroke, and pneumonia, as well as long-term survival compared with the thoracotomy approach. These results suggested that the sternotomy approach was more appropriate for patients with distal aortic arch aneurysms with distal extensions.

A previous study showed that small G protein signaling modulator 3 (SGSM3) was highly correlated with Cx43 in heart functions and that high levels of SGSM3 may induce Cx43 turnover through lysosomal degradation in infarcted rat hearts. Here, we investigated the protective effects of kenpaullone on cardiomyocytes following H

Background This study sought to systematically investigate the derivation of late outgrowth endothelial progenitor cells (late EPC) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from umbilical cord blood (UCB) and to examine their therapeutic effects on myocardial infarction (MI). Methods The expression of angiogenic genes was determined by qRT-PCR. Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in rats, and cells were directly transplanted into the border regions of ischemic heart tissue. Results Culture of UCB mononuclear cells yielded two distinct types of cells by morphology after 2weeks in the same culture conditions. These cells were identified as late EPC and MSC, and each was intramyocardially injected into rat hearts after induction of MI. Echocardiography and histologic analyses demonstrated that both EPC and MSC improved cardiac function and enhanced vascularization, although fibrosis was reduced only in the EPC transplanted hearts. Different paracrine factors were enriched in EPC and MSC. However, once injected into the hearts, they induced similar types of paracrine factors in the heart. Transplanted EPC or MSC were mostly localized at the perivascular areas. This study demonstrated that EPC and MSC can be simultaneously derived from UCB under the same initial culture conditions, and that common paracrine factors are involved in the repair of MI. Conclusion Late EPC and MSC are effective for infarct repair, apparently mediated through common humoral mechanisms.

BACKGROUND To determine the predictors of aggravated left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) and to compare late outcomes according to the aggravated LVDD. METHODS AND RESULTS OPCAB was performed in 1,101 patients (2001-2013). LVDD was classified as normal, mild, moderate or severe. Patients were divided into 2 groups: non-aggravated LVDD (group I) and aggravated LVDD (group II). The primary endpoint was aggravation of LVDD. The secondary endpoint was late mortality and morbidity such as major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) related to LVDD aggravation postoperatively. There were 894 patients in group I and 207 in group II. Multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative peripheral artery obstructive disease (PAOD) (P=0.04), renal failure (P

Background The long-term prognostic value of the computed tomography (CT)-based SYNTAX score has not yet been investigated. The aim of our study was to investigate the prognostic value of the CT-SYNTAX score in predicting major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) in populations who underwent both coronary computed tomography (CCTA) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA), compared with prognostic values of coronary artery disease (CAD) findings on CCTA and the ICA-based SYNTAX score. Methods We retrospectively included 339 patients (213 men, mean age of 63.8±9.45years) with suspected CAD who underwent CCTA and ICA. SYNTAX score was obtained based on both CCTA and ICA. Follow-up clinical outcome data regarding composite MACEs were obtained. Cox proportional hazard models were developed to predict MACEs based on clinical variables, number of CAD vessels, and SYNTAX scores based on CCTA and ICA. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve method was used, and the integrated area under the curve (iAUC) was calculated to compare the predictive prognosis of the models. Results During the median follow-up of 1374days, there were 30 MACEs. In multivariate Cox regression adjusted for clinical variables, SYNTAX score group 4 (≥33) on CCTA and SYNTAX score groups 3 (23–32) and 4 (≥33) on ICA showed increased hazard ratios for MACEs compared to SYNTAX score group 1 (0). CT-SYNTAX score demonstrated no significant difference in iAUC compared with ICA-SYNTAX score and the number of vessels of CAD on CCTA. Conclusions CT-SYNTAX score can be a useful method for non-invasively predicting MACEs, especially in patients with complex CAD.

Objective To determine whether plasma cystatin C and creatinine levels after isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) are predictive of postoperative renal dysfunction and clinical outcomes. Methods Between January 2008 and December 2013, 1033 who underwent isolated OPCAB were recruited. The patients were divided into three groups according to the preoperative level of cystatin C: low (0.83 mg/L>), mid (0.83–1.13 mg/L) and high (1.13 mg/L

During ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury of the heart, Ca(2+) overload occurs, leading to cardiomyocyte dysfunction and eventual cell death by apoptosis. Since preventing Ca(2+) overload during IR injury has been reported to protect cardiomyocytes, interrupting Ca(2+) signaling cascades leading to Ca(2+) overload may exert protective effect on cardiomyocytes under hypoxic condition. One of the key regulators of the intracellular Ca(2+) level during IR injury is Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchanger 1 (NCX1), whose down-regulation during IR injury conferred protection of heart. In the present study, we examined whether down-regulation of NCX1 using exogenous microRNA ameliorates apoptosis of cardiomyocytes under hypoxic condition. Here, we identified miR-132 as a novel microRNA targeting the NCX1, whose expression increased during hypoxia. Delivery of miR-132 suppressed the increase of intracellular Ca(2+) in cardiomyocytes under hypoxia, and the expressions of apoptotic molecules, such as Bax, cytochrome C, and caspase 3, and the number of apoptotic cells were also decreased by exogenous miR-132 treatment. These results suggest the potential of miR-132 as an effective therapeutic agent against IR damage to heart by preventing Ca(2+) overload during hypoxic condition and warrant further studies to validate its anti-apoptotic effect in vivo.