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Background: The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was originally described as a marker of survival in chronic liver disease. More recently, MELD and its derivatives, MELD excluding INR (MELD-XI) and MELD with sodium (MELD-Na), have been applied more broadly as outcome predictors in heart transplant, left ventricular assist device placement, heart failure, and cardiogenic shock, with additional promising data to support the use of these scores for prediction of survival in those undergoing veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO). Methods: This study assessed the prognostic impact of MELD in patients with cardiogenic shock undergoing VA ECMO via a single-center retrospective review from January 2014 to March 2020. MELD, MELD-XI, and MELD-Na scores were calculated using laboratory values collected within 48 h of VA ECMO initiation. Multivariate Cox regression analyses determined the association between MELD scores and the primary outcome of 90-day mortality. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were used to estimate the discriminatory power for MELD in comparison with previously validated SAVE score. Results: Of the 194 patients, median MELD was 20.1 (13.7–26.2), and 90-day mortality was 62.1%. There was a significant association between MELD score and mortality up to 90 days (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.945, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.244–3.041, p = 0.004) after adjustment for age, indication for VA ECMO, and sex. The prognostic significance of MELD score for 90-day mortality revealed an AUC of 0.645 (95% CI = 0.565–0.725, p < 0.001). MELD-Na score and MELD-XI score were not associated with mortality. Conclusion: MELD score accurately predicts long-term mortality and may be utilized as a valuable decision-making tool in patients undergoing VA ECMO.

Ventricular septal ruptures are an uncommon complication following acute myocardial infarction. Operative repair, utilizing a patch for closure of the defect, is the primary treatment modality to achieve hemodynamic stability. The use of an extracellular matrix derived from small intestinal submucosa as a scaffold for tissue repair is becoming increasingly common. Here, we present the case of a 58-year-old female found to have a ventricular septal rupture and posterior left ventricular aneurysm following late presentation after a myocardial infarction that required operative repair with a CorMatrix patch. Upon readmission for dyspnea and poor exercise tolerance several months later, the patch was subsequently found to have near-completely reabsorbed. There is a paucity of long-term outcomes data following the use of CorMatrix for septal defects, with rare reports of such reabsorption. Further study is required to identify the incidence and implications of such findings.

Objectives The aim of this study was to develop and validate a risk prediction model for high-grade atrioventricular block requiring cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Background High-grade atrioventricular block requiring CIED remains a significant sequelae following TAVR. Although several pre-operative characteristics have been associated with the risk of post-operative CIED implantation, an accurate and validated risk prediction model is not established yet. Methods This was a single center, retrospective study of consecutive patients who underwent TAVR from March 10, 2011, to October 8, 2018. This cohort sample was randomly divided into a derivation cohort (group A) and a validation cohort (group B). A scoring system for risk prediction of post-TAVR CIED implantation was devised using logistic regression estimates in group A and the calibration and validation were done in group B. Results A total of 1,071 patients underwent TAVR during the study period. After excluding pre-existing CIED, a total of 888 cases were analyzed (group A: 507 and group B: 381). Independent predictive variables were as follows: self-expanding valve (1 point), hypertension (1 point), pre-existing first-degree atrioventricular block (1 point), and right bundle branch block (2 points). The resulting score was calculated from the total points. The internal validation in group B showed an ideal linear relationship in calibration plot (R2 = 0.933) and a good predictive accuracy (area under the curve: 0.693; 95% confidence interval: 0.627 to 0.759). Conclusions This prediction model accurately predicts post-operative risk of CIED implantation with simple pre-operative parameters.

Re-admission is an important source of patient dissatisfaction and increased hospital costs. A simple calculator to determine the probability of re-admission may help guide patient dismissal planning.Using the national readmissions database (NRD), we identified admissions for isolated primary coronary artery bypass (CABG) and stratified them according to 30-day readmission. Including pre, intra and postoperative variables, we prepared a logistic regression model to determine the probability for re-admission. The model was tested for reliability with boot-strapping and 10-fold cross-validation.From 135,699 procedures, 19,355 were readmitted at least once within 30days of dismissal. Patients who were readmitted were older (67±10 vs 65 ± 10 years, p0.01), females (32% vs 24%; p0.01) and had a higher Elixhauser comorbidity score (1.5±1.4 vs 1.1±1.2; p0.01). Our final model (c- statistic=0.65) consisted of 16 pre and three postoperative factors. End-stage renal disease (OR 1.79 [1.57-2.04]) and length of stay9days (OR 1.60 [1.52-1.68]) were most prominent indicators for readmission. Compared to Medicaid beneficiaries, those with private insurance (OR 0.62 [0.57-0.68]) and Medicare (OR 0.85 [0.79-0.92]) coverage were less likely to be readmitted.Our simple 30-days CABG readmission calculator can be used as a strategic tool to help reduce readmissions after coronary artery bypass surgery.

OBJECTIVES We analysed the Veteran Affairs data to evaluate the association of pre-operative glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and long-term outcome after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS Veterans with diabetes mellitus and isolated CABG (2006–2018) were divided into 4 groups (I: HbA1c 10%). The relationship of pre-operative HbA1c and long-term survival was evaluated with a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model and reported as hazard ratios (HR). The cumulative incidence of secondary end-points [myocardial infarction (MI) and repeat revascularization (percutaneous intervention)] for each group was modelled as competing events with cause-specific Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS Overall, 16 190 patients (mean age 64.9 years, male 98%; insulin dependent 53%) with diabetes mellitus underwent isolated CABG. We observed 19.4%, 45.4%, 27% and 8.2% patients in groups I, II, III and IV, respectively. Patients with HbA1c >10% were the youngest (mean age 60.9 years) and had high rates of Insulin dependence (78%). In patients with HbA1c >10%, improvement in levels was observed in 76%. The median follow-up observed was 5.8 (3.2–8.8) years. Compared to the study mean HbA1c (7.3%), mortality rate increased with HbA1c levels >8%, and especially with pre-operative HbA1c levels >9%. Compared to patients with HbA1c 10% were associated with increased MI (HR 1.24 and HR 1.39, respectively) and need for reintervention (HR 1.20 and HR 1.24, respectively). CONCLUSIONS In patients undergoing CABG, pre-operative HbA1c >8% is associated with the increased risk of mortality and adverse cardiac events.

Introduction: We analyzed the national Veteran Affairs (VA) data to evaluate the association of preoperative glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and long-term outcome after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: Between January 2007 - December 2014, Veterans with diabetes mellitus (DM) that underwent isolated CABG were divided on into three groups (I: HbA1c < 8%, II: HbA1c 8 - 10% and III: HbA1c > 10%). Demographic and clinical differences between groups were evaluated with the t-test or chi-square test. The relationship of preoperative HbA1c and long-term survival was evaluated with a multivariable proportional hazards model; restricted cubic splines were used to model non-linear effects. The cumulative incidence of secondary end-points (myocardial infarction, urgent revascularization) for each group was modeled as a competing-risk analysis. Results: Overall, 3,210 patients (mean age 64.6 years, male 98.8%; insulin dependent - 53%) with DM underwent isolated CABG. Group III patients were younger (61 vs 65 years in group I). Median HbA1c levels were similar between races (white - 7.3% and blacks - 7.35%). Insulin dependence was higher in group III (79.3%) vs groups I (43.5%) and II (69.9%). In groups I,II and III, 5 and 10 year survival was 76.2%, 74.4%, 75.4% and 38.9%, 36.9% and 30.2% respectively. HbA1c was observed to have a J-shaped association with mortality with values < 6% and > 9% at higher risk of death. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction [HR 1.5 (1.3 - 1.7)], prior myocardial infarction [HR 1.3 (1.2 - 1.5)] and insulin dependence [HR 1.4 (1.2 - 1.5)] were also associated with lower survival. Myocardial infarction was observed in 9.8% , 13.4% and 12.8% patients in groups I, II and III respectively. Conclusions: Pre-operative HbA1c impacts long-term survival among diabetic patients undergoing CABG. We observed a J-shaped relationship between HbA1c and survival with values < 6% and > 9% associated with increased mortality.

Background Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) improves survival in patients with heart failure and severely reduced left ventricular systolic function (LVEF). Limited data exist regarding adverse cardiovascular event rates after CABG in patients with heart failure with midrange ejection fraction (HFmrEF; LVEF > 40% and Methods We analyzed data on isolated CABG patients from the Veterans Affairs national database (2010-2019). We stratified patients into control (normal LVEF and no heart failure), HFmrEF, and heart failure with reduced LVEF (HFrEF) groups. We compared all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization rates between groups with a Cox model and recurrent events analysis, respectively. Results In 6533 veterans, HFmrEF and HFrEF was present in 1715 (26.3%) and 566 (8.6%) respectively; the control group had 4252 (65.1%) patients. HFrEF patients were more likely to have diabetes mellitus (59%), insulin therapy (36%), and previous myocardial infarction (31%). Anemia was more prevalent in patients with HFrEF (49%) as was a lower serum albumin (mean, 3.6 mg/dL). Compared with the control group, a higher risk of death was observed in the HFmrEF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.3 [1.2-1.5)] and HFrEF (HR, 1.5 [1.2-1.7]) groups. HFmrEF patients had the higher risk of myocardial infarction (subdistribution HR, 1.2 [1-1.6]; P = .04). Risk of heart failure hospitalization was higher in patients with HFmrEF (HR, 4.1 [3.5-4.7]) and patients with HFrEF (HR, 7.2 [6.2-8.5]). Conclusions Heart failure with midrange ejection fraction negatively affects survival after CABG. These patients also experience higher rates myocardial infarction and heart failure hospitalization.

OBJECTIVE To compare post-procedural outcomes of trans-catheter valve replacement (TAVR) among safety-net (SNH) and non-safety net hospitals (non-SNH). BACKGROUND SNH treat a large population of un-insured and low income patients; prior studies report worse outcome at these centers. Results of TAVR at these centers is limited. METHODS Adults undergoing TAVR at hospitals in the US participating in the National In-patient sample (NIS) database from January 2014 to December 2015 were included. A 1:1 propensity-matched cohort of patients operated at SNH and non-SNH institutions was analyzed, on the basis of 16 demographic and clinical co-variates. Main outcome was all-cause post-procedural mortality. Secondary outcomes included stroke, acute kidney injury and length of post-operative stay. RESULTS Between 2014 and 2015, 41,410 patients (mean age 80 ± 0.11 years, 46% female) underwent TAVR at 731 centers; 6,996 (16.80%) procedures were performed at SNH comprising 135/731 (18.4%) of all centers performing TAVR. SNH patients were more likely to be female (49% vs. 46%, p

Introduction: Safety-net hospitals (SNH) treat a large population of un-insured and low income patients; several prior studies report worse outcome at these centers. Trans-catheter valve replacement (TAVR) is emerging as first-line therapy for aortic stenosis irrespective of surgical risk scores. However, results of TAVR performed at these centers is limited. Objective: To determine whether post-procedural outcomes of TAVR are comparable at safety-net (SNH) and non-safety net hospitals (non-SNH). Methods: We conducted a retrospective, cohort study with propensity-matched analysis. Complex survey data from the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research containing weighted sample of all hospital admissions nationwide was utilized for this study. Adults undergoing TAVR at US hospitals participating in the National In-patient sample (NIS) database from January 2014 - December 2015 were included. A 1:1 propensity-matched cohort of patients operated at safety-net hospitals (SNH) and non-SNH institutions was analyzed. Propensity-matching was performed on the basis of sixteen demographic and clinical confounding co-variates. Main outcome studied was all-cause post-procedural mortality. Secondary outcomes compared were stroke, acute kidney injury and length of post-operative stay. Results: Between 2014 - 2015, 41410 patients (mean age 80 +/- 0.11 years, 46% female) underwent TAVR at 731 centers nationwide; 6996 (16.80 %) procedures were performed at safety net centers. SNH comprised 135/731 (18.4%) of all centers performing TAVR. SNH patients were more likely to be female (49 % vs 46 %, p Conclusion: Post-procedural outcomes after TAVR at SNH are comparable to national outcomes. Our study provides preliminary evidence that wider adoption of TAVR may not adversely influence outcomes at SNH.

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has been used for refractory cardiogenic shock; however, it is associated with increased left ventricular afterload. Outcomes associated with the combination of a percutaneous left ventricular assist device (Impella) and VA-ECMO remains largely unknown. We retrospectively reviewed patients treated for refractory cardiogenic shock with VA-ECMO (2014-2016). The primary outcome was all-cause mortality within 30 days of VA-ECMO implantation. Secondary outcomes included duration of support, stroke, major bleeding, hemolysis, inotropic score, and cardiac recovery. Outcomes were compared between the VA-ECMO cohort and VA-ECMO + Impella (ECPELLA cohort). Sixty-six patients were identified: 36 VA-ECMO and 30 ECPELLA. Fifty-eight percent of VA-ECMO patients (n = 21) had surgical venting, as compared to 100% of the ECPELLA cohort (n = 30) which had Impella (±surgical vent). Both cohorts demonstrated relatively similar baseline characteristics except for higher incidence of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the ECPELLA cohort. Thirty-day all-cause mortality was significantly lower in the ECPELLA cohort (57% vs. 78%; hazard ratio [HR] 0.51 [0.28-0.94], log rank p = 0.02), and this difference remained intact after correcting for STEMI and PCI. No difference between secondary outcomes was observed, except for the inotrope score which was greater in VA-ECMO group by day 2 (11 vs. 0; p = 0.001). In the largest US-based retrospective study, the addition of Impella to VA-ECMO for patients with refractory cardiogenic shock was associated with lower all-cause 30 day mortality, lower inotrope use, and comparable safety profiles as compared with VA-ECMO alone.

Venoarterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is an increasingly used temporizing therapy for patients with refractory cardiogenic shock. Contrast-enhanced echocardiography plays a critical role in the diagnosis and management of diseases that precipitate severe cardiac failure. In this case report, we describe a previously healthy 60-year-old woman who presented with dyspnea on exertion, and whose hospital course was complicated by ventricular fibrillation, emergent coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), and ECMO support. Her contrast-enhanced ECMO images demonstrated a unique pattern of opacification of three of the four cardiac chambers, which led to a diagnosis of severe aortic insufficiency.

Data regarding 10-year survival and adverse cardiovascular events in patients with metabolic syndrome (MET) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is limited.We compared 10-year events rates for veterans undergoing isolated CABG (January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2014, follow-up October 31, 2019) stratified by presence of metabolic syndrome (MET+) versus without (MET-). A multivariable weighted Cox model was used to analyze all-cause mortality. Competing risk analysis was used to calculate cumulative event rates for congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular events. The Fine-Gray subhazard model was used to determine adjusted association of MET with myocardial infarction and stroke. Congestive heart failure was modeled as a recurrent-event analysis.Nationally, 9615 adults (median age, 60 years; 98.9% men) underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting at 41 centers); among them, 3121 out of 9615 (32.5%) had MET. The prevalence of MET increased from (27.88% in 2005 to 34.02% in 2014; P = .02). MET+ group members were likely younger (median age, 63 vs 64 years; P .01), White (72% vs 68%), and had more peripheral vascular disease (30% vs 28%; P = .04). Multivessel (72% vs 70%; P = .23) and multiarterial (4% vs 4%; P = .14) grafting was performed equally. With a median follow-up of 6.5 years, survival was similar (P = .26); however, MET was associated with higher risks for myocardial infarction (21% vs 16%; hazard ratio, 1.3; P .01) and recurrent admissions for congestive heart failure.Patients with metabolic syndrome undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting have higher 10-year cardiovascular event rates.

Most primary cardiac tumors are benign neoplasms, which generally can be differentiated from malignant neoplasms via certain radiological features. We present briefly a case of a 26-year-old man undergoing resection of a right atrial mass that based on preceding radiologic findings represent a myxoma. After pathologic examination, the lesion was determined to be an epithelioid angiosarcoma with unique frond-like architecture and multiple pedicular attachments to the atrial wall.

Purpose Lung disease and transplantation can lead to diaphragm dysfunction (DD). Phrenic neuropathy in lung transplants increases morbidity. Diaphragm pacing (DP) improves nerve recovery and prevents ventilator induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD). The FDA authorized temporary DP to decrease the burden of mechanical ventilators (MV) during the COVID-19 pandemic. We report the largest experience of DP in lung transplantation. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of an IRB approved prospective, non-randomized interventional experience at a single institution with two DP systems. A chronic DP system was laparoscopically implanted in those with identified (either pre or post-transplant) phrenic nerve injury. Post implantation, diaphragm stimulation ensued and results evaluated radiographically and with diaphragm electromyography (dEMG). Transplant recipients had the temporary DP system implanted percutaneously via their chest incision. Diaphragm activity was monitored with the electrodes and stimulation applied for MV weaning. Results 8 patients utilized DP with no device adverse events. 3 patients with DD, 6 months average post-transplant, had chronic DP implanted. All had evidence of subsequent recovery of diaphragm function. 1 patient had DP pre-transplant for unilateral DD with subsequent diaphragm recovery. At time of unilateral transplant on contralateral side a phrenic nerve injury was identified. DP was used during the recovery. 4 patients underwent implantation of temporary DP electrodes during lung transplant. 2 patients had bilateral dEMG identified post-operatively with uneventful recovery and removal of electrodes. 2 patient had no dEMG activity or movement bilaterally post-operatively. Retrospectively this was a pre-operative condition. 1 recovered diaphragm function at 2 weeks with DP therapy. The 2nd is still undergoing DP. 3 patients with phrenic nerve dysfunction post operatively also had intercostal nerve cryoanalgesia which decreases external intercostal muscles use for respiration. These 3 patients had prolonged ventilation difficulties. Conclusion DP was safely used in lung transplantation in identifying and improving recovery of phrenic nerve injuries and preventing VIDD. Intercostal nerve cryoanalgesia should not be used if there is DD. DP should be considered in all lung transplants for improved outcomes.

The Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services penalizes hospitals with high readmission rates after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Home health care (HHC) is a proven discharge support tool. We performed a propensity-matched analysis to determine impact of HHC on readmissions after CABG.We queried the National Readmissions Database (January 2012-December 2014) for patients undergoing isolated CABG discharged home with and without HHC. Primary end point was 30-day readmission. A well-balanced subset of patients with and without HHC was created with propensity matching. Weight-adjusted logistic regression was performed to determine impact of HHC on readmissions after CABG.In our study, 204,184 patients (mean age. 64 years; 22% female) were discharged home after CABG; 86,206 (42%) received HHC. Old age (66 vs 63 years; P .01), diabetes (46% vs 41%; P .001), COPD (21% vs 18%; P .01), peripheral arterial disease (14% vs 11%; P .001), and chronic kidney disease (2% vs 1.5%; P = .01) were factors associated with HHC. With nearest-neighbor 1:1 matching without replacement, we identified 66,610 patient pairs (unweighted) for further analysis. Readmission occurred in 11.1% and 12.5% of patients with and without HHC, respectively. After adjustment for 21 clinical covariates, use of HHC (odds ratio, 0.816; 95% confidence interval, 0.808-0.823) led to significantly lower readmission rates (P .001).HHC after coronary artery bypass surgery is more often provided to women, older patients, and those with diabetes mellitus, peripheral arterial disease, and chronic lung or kidney dysfunction. HHC appears to be associated with reduced rates of early readmission.

Concomitant coronary and carotid artery disease is reported in 14% patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting. However, when to surgically intervene on the carotid lesion is a controversial issue. Both concomitant and staged procedures have their proponents and opponents alike. In this chapter we present our argument for a selective approach towards carotid artery screening. We also provide a synopsis of accepted management strategies for patients with concomitant carotid and coronary artery disease and outline contemporary outcomes.

Perioperative bacterial decolonization and prophylactic antibiotic therapy at the Veterans Affairs Health Care System have changed over the past decade. Our objectives were to identify associated changes in the microbiology of mediastinitis and to perform a contemporary survival analysis in patients with mediastinitis after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting procedure.From January 2006 to December 2015, 45,323 consecutive patients underwent coronary artery bypass grafting at 83 medical centers. The Veterans Affairs Health Care System nationwide administrative database was queried to identify patients with postoperative mediastinitis and obtain patient-level data. Simple descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used to analyze microbiologic data and identify risk factors for infection. Poisson regression was used to determine yearly incidence estimates. Cox proportional hazard model identified predictors of long-term survival from date of operation.During the study period, 348 patients (0.78%) developed postoperative mediastinitis-with a stable rate of incidence (Cochrane-Armitage test, P = .69). Of patients with microbiologic data, 75.5% of infections (n = 188) were caused by gram-positive and 24.5% (n = 61) gram-negative organisms. The incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus mediastinitis decreased during the study period (Cochrane-Armitage test, P = .013). Gram-negative mediastinitis occurred earlier than gram-positive mediastinitis (median, 15.0 vs 25.0 days; P .0001). Patients with mediastinitis did not have increased 30-day mortality (2.0% vs 1.9%; P = .9), but had worse long-term survival compared with uninfected patients (P .0001).The incidence of methicillin-resistant S aureus mediastinitis has decreased over the past decade. Gram-negative bacteria are responsible for 1 in 4 cases of mediastinitis and infection is diagnosed earlier in the postoperative period than gram-positive mediastinitis. These findings highlight the need for efforts to prevent gram-negative and methicillin-susceptible S aureus mediastinitis.

Some centers, mostly in Europe, have demonstrated the feasibility of a minimally invasive strategy (MIS; i.e., local anesthesia and conscious sedation, performed in the cath laboratory without transesophageal echocardiography guidance). Nonetheless, the experience of MIS for TAVI using both commercially available valves is lacking in the United States. We, therefore, retrospectively studied all transfemoral TAVI cases performed at our institution between March 2011 and November 2014 to assess the safety and efficacy of MIS. Patients were dichotomized according to the strategy (MIS vs conventional strategy [CS]) used for the procedure. One hundred sixteen patients were included in the MIS group and 91 patients were included in the CS group. Baseline characteristics were similar, and procedural success was comparable (99.1% in MIS and 98.9% in CS, p = 1). One intraprocedural death occurred in each group, whereas conversion rates to general anesthesia were low (3.4%). Comparable device success was obtained. Rates of complications and >mild paravalvular leak before discharge were low and comparable. Length of hospital stay was significantly reduced in the MIS (median, 3.0 [2.0 to 5.0] days) compared with than that in CS group (median 6.0 days [3.5, 8.0]). At a median follow-up of 230 days, no significant difference in survival rate was detected (89% vs 88%, p = 0.9). On average, MIS was associated with remarkable cost saving compared with CS ($16,000/case). In conclusion, TAVI through MIS was associated with a shorter postprocedural hospital stay, lower costs, and similar safety profile while keeping procedural efficacy compared with CS.

Ventricular assist device (VAD) technology is being increasingly used for circulatory support and refractory heart failure. Known complications of VAD technology including bleeding and thrombosis. We report a rare case of acute mesenteric ischemia in a VAD patient, who was successfully treated with segmental small bowel resections.

Whereas several preoperative characteristics have been associated with the risk of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device (CIED) implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), an accurate risk prediction is not established yet. This is a single center, retrospective study of

Purpose The Model of End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score incorporates measures of kidney and liver dysfunction . MELD score has been shown to predict mortality in patients with advanced heart failure or cardiogenic shock (CS). Prior small single-center studies have shown that MELD score predicts mortality in patients supported with Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO). The Purpose of our was to reassess the role of MELD score predicting Mortality After (VA-ECMO). Methods We reviewed 105 consecutive patients with (CS) who received VA-ECMO between 8/2014 and 6/2018 in our hospital. We calculated MELD, MELD excluding INR (MELDXI), MELD with sodium -MELDNa- (calculated at a mean of 7 hours prior to VA-ECMO initiation), and SAVE score. We identified the association between each score and short-term mortality using logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier with Cox proportional hazard models . Results Our patient had Mean age was 57.1 ± 13.8 years and 32% female. Mean MELD score was 19.5 ± 8.3, MELDXI 18.9 ± 7.1, MELDNa 20.5 ± 8.3, SAVE -8.6 ± 6.5. Inpatient mortality was 68%. SAVE score was associated with short-term (OR 0.91 per 1 unit, 95% CI: 0.84-0.98, P=0.011) and long-term mortality (HR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.91-0.98, P=0.002) (Figure 1). There was no association between MELD (OR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.97-1.08, P=0.41), MELDXI (OR 1.01, 95% CI: 0.95-1.07, P=0.86), or MELDNa (OR 1.02, 95% CI: 0.97-1.08, P=0.41), with inpatient mortality. MELD (OR 1.07, 1.01-1.13, P=0.02), MELDXI (OR 1.12 [1.05-1.20], P=0.001) and MELDNa (OR 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01-1.12, P=0.03) were all associated with need for hemodialysis after ECMO. Conclusion In this single-center study of patients with VA ECMO, neither MELD, nor MELDXI or MELDNa, were associated with short-term or long-term mortality. SAVE score was able to modestly predict inpatient mortality. Further studies are needed to delineate the impact of bystander organ dysfunction to predict mortality in patients supported with VA-ECMO.

Technological advances in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and emerging evidence that it improves survival in adults with reversible respiratory failure compared to conventional ventilation has lead to increased utilization of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults, usually in the context of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Refractory status asthmaticus is an uncommon indication for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. We present a case of near fatal respiratory failure and hypercapnia in a 48-year-old male in status asthmaticus not responsive to optimal ventilatory treatment. The use of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation resulted in full recovery with return of normal respiratory function within nine days.

Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a rare multisystem condition characterized by dysregulated overproduction of eosinophils. Cardiac involvement in HES is characterized by necrosis from infiltration of eosinophils and thrombus formation and, in the late stage, by fibrosis and chronic valvular regurgitation. We report a very unusual presentation of idiopathic HES with acute mitral regurgitation due to papillary muscle rupture. The transesophageal echocardiogram was suggestive of a flail posterior leaflet and suspicious for endocarditis. Intraoperatively, papillary muscle rupture was seen and the patient underwent mitral valve replacement. The pathologic examination of the valve revealed eosinophilic infiltration of the papillary muscle. The patient was treated with steroids and responded well clinically.