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Background: There is an ongoing debate about the influence of the female gender on postoperative outcomes after durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Despite the differences in pathophysiology of heart failure in females, therapy concepts are the same as in the male population. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the female gender in surgical heart failure therapy., Materials and Methods: Between August 2010 and January 2020, 207 patients were treated with durable LVAD at out institution. We matched 111 patients in two groups to compare the outcomes in male and female patients and to stratify the risk factors of mortality., Results: The groups were matched 2:1 and were comparable after matching. We found no difference in in-hospital and follow-up mortality between male and female patients. Postoperative adverse events and complications were found to be unvaried across male and female patients. Female patients had higher rates of postoperative LVAD-thrombosis compared to their male counterparts (13.5% vs 0, p  = 0.001) and the rates of renal replacement therapy lasting over 90 days were also higher in the female group (33.8% vs 56.8%, p  = 0.021). Furthermore, the female gender was not an independent predictor neither of in-hospital nor follow-up mortality., Conclusions: Durable continuous flow left ventricular assist devices as a bridge to transplantation or recovery in female patients are associated with a higher risk of acute kidney injury requiring RRT and are at a higher risk of LVAD-thrombosis. Nevertheless, survival rates between genders are similar.

Aim: Due to improved therapy in childhood, many patients with congenital heart disease reach adulthood and are termed adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). ACHD often develop heart failure (HF) as a consequence of initial palliative surgery or complex anatomy and subsequently require advanced HF therapy. ACHD are usually excluded from trials evaluating heart failure therapies, and in this context, more data about heart failure trajectories in ACHD are needed to guide the management of ACHD suffering from HF., Methods and Results: The pAtients pResenTing with cOngenital heaRt dIseAse Register (ARTORIA-R) will collect data from ACHD evaluated or listed for heart or heart-combined organ transplantation from 16 countries in Europe and the Asia/Pacific region. We plan retrospective collection of data from 1989-2020 and will include patients prospectively. Additional organizations and hospitals in charge of transplantation of ACHD will be asked in the future to contribute data to the register. The primary outcome is the combined endpoint of delisting due to clinical worsening or death on the waiting list. The secondary outcome is delisting due to clinical improvement while on the waiting list. All-cause mortality following transplantation will also be assessed. The data will be entered into an electronic database with access to the investigators participating in the register. All variables of the register reflect key components important for listing of the patients or assessing current HF treatment., Conclusion: The ARTORIA-R will provide robust information on current management and outcomes of adults with congenital heart disease suffering from advanced heart failure., (© 2021 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Society of Cardiology.)

Introduction: advanced age and concomitant procedures could increase the risk of perioperative complications during surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). We aimed to evaluate results of elderly patients undergoing SAVR and evaluate the impact of concomitant non-valvular, non-coronary procedures on the outcomes., Methods: A retrospective single-centre study, evaluating 464 elderly patients (mean age = 75.6 ± 4 years) undergoing either isolated-SAVR (I-SAVR = 211) or combined-SAVR (C-SAVR = 253) between 01/2007 and 12/2017. Combined-SAVR involved non-valvular, non-coronary procedures. Study endpoints are postoperative results concerning the VARC-II criteria, valve dysfunction, long-term freedom from redo-AVR and survival., Results: males were 52.8%. Patients had an intermediate risk profile (mean EuroSCORE-II (%) 5.2 ± 5). Postoperative results reported no significant differences in incidence of re-exploration for bleeding (6.6% vs. 6.7%, p = 1.0), stroke (0.9% vs. 0.4%, p = 0.59), dialysis (6.2% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.23) and pacemaker implantation (3.3% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.79) between I-SAVR and C-SAVR groups. Thirty-day (2.4% vs. 7.1% p = 0.03), one-year (5.7% vs. 13.8%, p = 0.003) and overall mortality (24.6% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.002) were lower in the isolated-SAVR group. Re-AVR was indicated in 1.7% of patients due to endocarditis., Conclusions: SAVR in elderly patients offers good outcomes with increased life quality and rare re-operation for structural valvular deterioration. Mortality rates were significantly higher when SAVR was combined with another "non-valvular, non-coronary" procedure.

Multivalve redo procedures carry a high surgical risk. We describe an alternative surgical treatment for patients presenting with severely degenerated aortic and mitral valve prostheses who have to undergo open surgery due to endocarditis. Open transcatheter multivalve implantation is a feasible bailout strategy in high-risk patients to save cross-clamp and procedural times to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Background Coronary artery bypass grafting has remained an important treatment option for acute coronary syndromes, particularly in patients (1) with ongoing ischemia and large areas of jeopardized myocardium, if percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) cannot be performed; (2) following successful PCI of the culprit lesion with further indication for coronary artery bypass grafting; and (3) where PCI is incomplete, not sufficient, or failed. Methods and Results We aimed to analyze coronary artery bypass grafting outcome following prior PCI in acute coronary syndromes from the North-Rhine-Westphalia surgical myocardial infarction registry comprising 2616 patients. Primary end points were in-hospital all-cause mortality and major adverse cardio-cerebral event. Patients were 68±11 years of age, had 3-vessel and left main-stem disease in 80.4% and 45.3%, presenting a logistic EuroSCORE of 15.1% in unstable angina, 20.3% in non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, and 23.5% in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. A history of PCI was present in 36.2% and PCI was performed within 24 hours before surgery in 5.2% in unstable angina, 5.9% in non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, and 16.1% in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. PCI failed in 5.3% in unstable angina, 6.8% in non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and 17.2% in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, and 28.8% of patients presented with cardiogenic shock. In-hospital mortality without PCI was 7.4%, but increased to 8.7% with prior PCI >24 hours, 14.5% with prior PCI <24 hours, and 14.1% with failed PCI ( P <0.003). The in-hospital major adverse cardio-cerebral event rate was 16.4% without PCI, but 17.4% with prior PCI >24 hours, 25.6% with prior PCI <24 hours, and 41.3% with failed PCI ( P =0.014). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed prior PCI ( P =0.039), as well as failed PCI ( P =0.001) to be predictors for in-hospital all-cause mortality and major adverse cardio-cerebral event. Conclusions In the current PCI era, immediately prior or failed PCI before coronary artery bypass grafting in acute coronary syndromes is associated with high perioperative risk, cardiogenic shock, and increased morbidity and mortality.

Background: We sought to evaluate the outcomes of transapical transcatheter mitral valve replacement in patients with degenerated mitral bioprostheses or failed mitral ring annuloplasty and high surgical risk for redo mitral valve procedure., Methods: Between August 2012 and December 2020, 41 consecutive high-risk patients underwent transcatheter mitral 'valve-in-valve' (TM-ViV, n=25) or 'valve-in-ring' (TM-ViR, n=16) implantation at our institution. All procedures were performed in a hybrid operating theater using the SAPIEN XT/3™ or the DIRECT FLOW MEDICAL™ prostheses. Data was collected prospectively according to MVARC criteria., Results: The logistic EuroSCORE-I was 42.3%±20.5% (mean ± SD), the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score was 11.9%±10.8%, and the STS/ACC-score was 7.6%±4.2%. Transcatheter mitral valve implantations were successful in all patients (100%). Early echocardiographic examinations showed no obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), no paravalvular leakage, and only trace transvalvular leakage in eight patients. There was no operative mortality; thirty-day mortality was 9.8%. Survival was 72% at one year and 63% at three years. At two-year follow-up, transvalvular mean pressure gradients were 4.6±1.4 mmHg., Conclusions: Transapical transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve or valve-in-ring implantation represents a true minimally invasive alternative to surgical redo procedures, especially in high-risk patients with failed bioprosthetic mitral valves or annuloplasty and favorable anatomy., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: Daniel Wendt is working as a proctor for Edwards Lifesciences. The other authors have no conflicts of interest., (2021 Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Redo surgical mitral valve replacement (SMVR) remains the gold standard treatment in patients with a history of mitral valve surgery presenting with recurrent mitral valve pathologies. Whilst this procedure is demanding, it is an inevitable intervention for some indications, such as infective endocarditis, thrombosis, or multivalve procedures. In this study, we aim to evaluate our institutional experience with SMVR on a real-life cohort, identifying the factors that contribute to poor surgical outcomes whilst avoiding selection bias., Methods: Between March 2012 and November 2020, 58 consecutive high-risk patients underwent a redo SMVR at our institution. The primary endpoints of this study were 30-day and 1-year mortality. The secondary endpoint was the development of any postoperative adverse events. We analyzed and compared the survival in patients undergoing an isolated SMVR and in those that required at least one concomitant procedure., Results: The overall operative, 30-day, and 1-year mortality were 3.4%, 22.4%, and 25.9%, respectively. The mortality in patients undergoing isolated SMVR was significantly lower than in patients requiring concomitant procedures. The multivariable regression model showed that NYHA Class IV, infective endocarditis, and postoperative dialysis were significantly associated with 30-day mortality. Society of Thoracic Surgeons Score, infective endocarditis, concomitant procedures, and mechanical valve implantation appeared to predict long-term mortality., Conclusion: This study illustrates that SMVR after prior mitral valve surgery presents a demanding procedure with high operative risk, significant mortality, and morbidity. Whilst this procedure is inevitable for some indications, a careful patient selection and risk stratification provides acceptable surgical results in this cohort., (© 2021 The Authors. Journal of Cardiac Surgery Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Transcatheter methods have been rapidly evolving to provide an alternative less invasive therapeutic option, mainly because redo patients often present with multiple comorbidities and high operative risk. We sought to evaluate and compare our experience with transapical transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TA-TMVR) to conventional redo mitral valve replacement in patients presenting with degenerated biological mitral valve prostheses or failed valve annuloplasty., Methods and Material: Between March 2012 and November 2020, 74 consecutive high-risk patients underwent surgical redo mitral valve replacement (n = 33) or TA-TMVR (n = 41) at our institution. All patients presented with a history of a surgical mitral valve procedure. All transcatheter procedures were performed using the SAPIEN XT/3™ prostheses. Data collection was prospectively according to MVARC criteria., Results: The mean logistic EuroSCORE-II of the whole cohort was 19.9±16.7%, and the median STS-score was 11.1±12.5%. The mean age in the SMVR group was 63.7±12.8 years and in the TMVR group 73.6±9.7 years. Patients undergoing TA-TMVR presented with significantly higher risk scores. Echocardiography at follow up showed no obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract, no paravalvular leakage and excellent transvalvular gradients in both groups (3.9±1.2 mmHg and 4.2±0.8 mmHg in the surgical and transcatheter arm respectively). There was no difference in postoperative major adverse events between the groups with no strokes in the whole cohort. Both methods showed similar survival rates at one year and a 30-day mortality of 15.2% and 9.8% in SAVR and TMVR group, respectively. Despite using contrast dye in the transcatheter group, the rate of postoperative acute kidney failure was similar between the groups., Conclusion: Despite several contraindications for surgery, we showed the non-inferiority of TA-TMVR compared to conventional surgical redo procedures in high-risk patients. With its excellent hemodynamic and similar survival rate, TA-TMVR offers a feasible alternative to the conventional surgical redo procedure in selected patients., Competing Interests: Daniel Wendt is working as a proctor for Edwards Lifesciences. Other authors have no conflicts of interest. This does not alter our adherence to PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials.

Background: The Abiomed Impella 5.5 (Danvers, MA) is a newly developed axial flow transaortic cardiac support device mounted on a 9 Fr steering catheter with a 21 Fr pump cannula. Impella 5.5 is intended for longer use and was approved for 30 days in 2018. This study evaluated the first-in-man series at six high-volume mechanical circulatory support centers in Germany after CE approval., Methods: The first 46 consecutive patients worldwide underwent implantation in six German centers between March 2018 and September 2019 for post-CE approval evaluation. The primary end-point was 30 days and 90 days all-cause mortality., Results: The mean age of patients was 59.0 ± 11.5 years, and 43 (93.4%) were men. Half of the patients had acute on chronic heart failure. The main indication for Impella 5.5 implantation was ischemic cardiomyopathy and acute myocardial infarction (47.8%). The mean support time was 15.5 ± 24.2 days (range 0-164, median 10 days (IQR = 7-19)) with a total of 712 patient-days on support. The 30 days and 90 days survival rates were 73.9% (95% CI: 63.3-88.9%) and 71.7% (95% CI: 60.7-87.1%), respectively. Additionally, 16 patients (34.8%) were weaned from the device for native heart recovery, and 19 (41.3%) were bridged to a durable device. Fifteen patients (32.6%) were mobilized to a chair, and 15 (32.6%) were ambulatory. We only noted one stroke and found no other thromboembolic complications. No aortic valve damage was observed in the study cohort. Finally, seven patients (15.2 %) had pump thrombosis, and nine (19.6 %) underwent device exchange. Sixteen patients (34.8 %) suffered from bleeding requiring transfusions during the whole treatment course. In ten patients (21.7%), the inflow cannula dislocated into the aortic root., Conclusions: The first version of the Impella 5.5 presents promising early outcomes for patients with acute heart failure and expands the spectrum of available devices. The adverse event profile is favorable for short-term devices. Dislocations have been addressed by design changes. With increasing experience with this device, our study suggests that the indications for use will expand to other cardiac shock etiologies and may improve myocardial recovery and survival in patients with cardiogenic shock., (Copyright © 2021 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aims: Therapy with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation has been associated with lower mortality and device thrombosis but increased risk for post-operative and gastrointestinal bleeding. We aimed to evaluate the impact of long-term PDE5Is on the overall bleeding risk after LVAD implantation., Methods and Results: We retrospectively included patients who received a continuous-flow LVAD at our site and were prescribed with long-term oral PDE5Is after discharge from the index hospitalization. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of bleeding at 12 month follow-up. Secondary endpoints were all-cause death and the combination of bleeding and all-cause death. Our analysis included 109 patients of whom 75 (69%) received long-term PDE5Is. Mean age was 56 years, and 85% were male. At 12 months, 19 (17%) patients experienced at least one bleeding event. Patients on PDE5Is had higher bleeding rates (23% vs. 6%, P = 0.03) and more bleeding events per patient-year (0.32 vs. 0.06, P = 0.03) compared with patients not on PDE5Is. While overall bleeding incidence was excessively higher in the PDE5I group, there were no significant differences in the incidence of major bleeding (19% vs. 6%, P = 0.08) and gastrointestinal bleeding (11% vs. 3%, P = 0.18). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed higher cumulative incidence of bleeding for the PDE5I group (log rank = 0.04) with no difference on all-cause death (log rank = 0.67) and the combination of bleeding and all-cause death (log rank = 0.13). Hospitalizations for bleeding and their duration were numerically higher in the PDE5I group (0.28 vs. 0.03, P = 0.07 and 2.4 vs. 0.2, P = 0.07, respectively)., Conclusions: Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor treatment after LVAD implantation is associated with increased bleeding risk after LVAD implantation. The safety of long-term PDE5Is in LVAD patients remains unclear and needs to be further clarified in prospective studies with randomized study design., (© 2021 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Society of Cardiology.)

Background: The Medtronic Freestyle prosthesis has proven to be a promising recourse for aortic root replacement in various indications. The present study aims to evaluate clinical outcomes and geometric changes of the aorta after Freestyle implantation., Methods: Between October 2005 and November 2020, the computed tomography angiography (CTA) data of 32 patients were analyzed in a cohort of 68 patients that underwent aortic root replacement using Freestyle prosthesis. The minimum and maximum diameters and areas of the aortic annulus, aortic root, ascending aorta, and the proximal aortic arch were measured at a plane perpendicular to the long axis of the aorta using 3D multiplanar reconstruction in both the preoperative (n = 32) and postoperative (n = 10) CTAs. Moreover, volumetric changes of the aortic root and ascending aorta were quantified., Results: Mean age was 64.6 ± 10.6 years. Indications for surgery using Freestyle prosthesis were combined aortic valve pathologies, aortic aneurysm or dissection, and endocarditis, with concomitant surgery occurring in 28 out of 32 patients. In-hospital mortality was 18.6%. Preoperative diameter and area measurements of the aortic annulus strongly correlated with the implanted valve size (p < 0.001). Bicuspid valve was present in 28.1% of the patients. Diameter and areas of the aortic root decreased after freestyle implantation, resulting in a reduction of the aortic root volume (45.6 ± 26.3 cm 3 to 18.7 ± 4.5 cm 3 , p = 0.029). Volume of the aortic root and the ascending aorta decreased from 137.3 ± 65.2 cm 3 to 54.5 ± 21.1 cm 3 after Freestyle implantation (p = 0.023)., Conclusion: Implantation of the Freestyle prosthesis presents excellent results in restoring the aortic geometry. Preoperative CTA measurements are beneficial to the surgical procedure and valve selection and therefore, if available, should be considered in pre-operative planning., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

The use of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for advanced heart failure is becoming increasingly common. However, optimal timing and patient selection remain controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes of LVAD implantation for advanced heart failure in critically ill patients (INTERMACS 1 and 2). Between August 2010 and January 2020, 207 consecutive patients underwent LVAD implantation. Overall survival, major adverse events, and laboratory parameters were compared between patients in INTERMACS 1-2 (n = 107) and INTERMACS 3-5 (n = 100). Preoperative white blood cells, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, bilirubin, alanine transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase were all significantly higher in INTERMACS 1-2 when compared to INTERMACS 3-5 (P < .05). During hospitalization following LVAD implantation, patients in INTERMACS 1-2 were more likely to develop major infections (41.1% vs. 23.0%, P = .005), respiratory failure (57.9% vs. 25.0%, P < .001), mild (20.6% vs. 8.0%, P = .010), and moderate (31.8% vs. 7.0%, P < .001) right heart failure, and acute renal dysfunction (56.1% vs. 6.0%, P < .001). During a median follow-up of 2.00 years (interquartile range (IQR) 0.24-3.39 years), they had a higher incidence of thoracic (15.9% vs. 4.0%, P = .005) and gastrointestinal bleeding (21.5% vs. 11.0%, P = .042), as well as right heart failure (18.7% vs. 1%, P < .001). Risk of death was significantly higher in the INTERMACS 1-2 group (hazards ratio (HR) 1.64, 95% CI 1.12-2.40, P = .011). LVAD implantation in critically ill patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Our results suggest that decision for LVAD should be not be delayed until INTERMACS 1 and 2 levels whenever possible., (© 2020 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Despite the rapid expansion of transcatheter approaches for aortic valve implantation, surgical aortic valve replacement remains the treatment of choice in patients presenting with multiple valvular heart disease. We sought to review our clinical experience with sutureless aortic valve replacement (SU-AVR) in the setting of multivalve procedures, addressing the postoperative outcomes and technical challenges., Methods: Between December 2019 and December 2020, 20 consecutive high-risk patients at our institution underwent SU-AVR and concomitant mitral valve procedure for various indications., Results: The mean age of the patients at operation was 72.6±9.3 years. Fifty five percent of the patients (n=11) presented with moderate to severe symptomatic aortic valve stenosis, while 35% (n=7) suffered from severe aortic regurgitation. All patients had concomitant moderate to severe mitral valve disease, including regurgitation in 95% (n=19) and stenosis in 25% (n=5). Mean logistic EuroSCORE was 34.3%±24.7%. Cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times were 101 (88.0-123) minutes and 67.5 (51.7-85.2) minutes, respectively. Optimal sutureless aortic valve prosthesis device success was achieved in 20 patients (100%). One patient (5%) required permanent pacemaker implantation. Thirty-day mortality was 10% and no strokes were detected., Conclusions: SU-AVR is a safe and feasible surgical alternative to conventional procedures in patients presenting with multiple valvular heart disease. It provides excellent hemodynamic performance with low risk of paravalvular leakage and low transvalvular gradients, whilst simplifying the surgical procedure. Precise sizing and positioning of the valve prostheses is crucial to ensure optimal postoperative outcome., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at http://dx.doi.org/10.21037/jtd-21-300). Alexander Weymann is working as a proctor for LivaNova. The other authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., (2021 Journal of Thoracic Disease. All rights reserved.)

In the growing era of transcatheter aortic valve implantation, it is crucial to develop minimally invasive surgical techniques. These methods enable easier recovery from surgical trauma, especially in elderly and frail patients. Minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR) is frequently performed via upper hemisternotomy. We describe MIAVR via right anterior thoracotomy, which is associated with less trauma, rapid mobilization, lower blood transfusion rates, and lower risk of postoperative wound infections. As minimally invasive procedures tend to take longer operative times, we suggest using rapid-deployment valve prostheses to overcome this limitation. This description focuses on the technical aspects and preoperative assessment.

Background: Despite current progress in antibiotic therapy and medical management, infective endocarditis remains a serious condition presenting with high mortality rates. It also is a life-threatening complication in patients with a history of chronic intravenous drug abuse. In this study, we analyzed our institutional experience on the surgical therapy of infective endocarditis in patients with active intravenous drug abuse. The aim of the study is to identify the predictive factors of mortality and morbidity in this subgroup of patients., Methods: Between 2007 and 2020, a total of 24 patients (7 female, mean age 38.5 ± 8.7) presenting with active intravenous drug abuse underwent a surgical treatment for the infective endocarditis at out center. The primary endpoint was survival at 30th day after the surgery. The secondary composite endpoint included freedom from death, recurrent endocarditis, re-do surgery, and postoperative stroke during the follow-up period. Mean follow-up was 4.2 ± 4.3 years., Results: Staphylococcus species was the most common pathogen detected in the preoperative blood cultures. Infection caused by Enterococcus species as well as liver function impairment were identified as mortality predictor factors. Logistic EuroSCORE and EusoSCORE-II were also predictive factors for mortality in univariate analysis. Survival at 1 and 3 years was 78 and 72% respectively. Thirty-day survival was 88%. 30-day freedom from combined endpoint was 83% and after 1 and 3 years, 69 and 58% of the patients respectively were free from combined endpoint. Five patients (20.8%) were readmitted with recurrent infective endocarditis., Conclusion: In patients presenting with active intravenous drug abuse, treatment of infective endocarditis should be performed as aggressively as possible and should be followed by antibiotic therapy to avoid high mortality rates and recurrent endocarditis. Early intervention is advisable in patients with an infective endocarditis and enterococcus species in the preoperative blood cultures, liver function deterioration as well as cardiac function impairment. Attention should be also payed to addiction treatment, due to the elevated relapse rate in patients who actively inject drugs. However, larger prospective studies are necessary to support our results. As septic shock is the most frequent cause of death, new treatment options, e.g. blood purification should be evaluated.

Introduction: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) techniques are increasingly being adopted into clinical routine for various risk groups. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is seen in up to 75% of patients with severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) presenting with typical angina pectoris. Due to high mortality rates and procedural complications in these patients, a hybrid concept of simultaneous transaortic TAVI and off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) can be a feasible treatment option., Methods: Between April 2014 and July 2020, 10 consecutive high-risk patients underwent concomitant transaortic TAVI and OPCAB at our institution. All indications were discussed in Heart Team and decisions were made based on patients' comorbidities and complexity of CAD. The study endpoints were 30-day mortality, device success, and development of postoperative adverse events defined by the Valve Academic Research Consorium., Results: The mean age of the patients was 77.9 ± 7.1 years old. All patients presented with multiple comorbidities (mean logistic EuroSCORE 26.5 ± 12.3%, median EuroSCORE II 5.13% [interquartile range 4.2-9.5], mean STS-Score 6.04 ± 1.6%). Five patients (50%) presented with porcelain aorta. No conversion to conventional procedures was needed. 30-day mortality occurred in one patient (10%). Complete revascularization was achieved in seven (70%) of the patients. Device success rate was 100%. No paravalvular leakage was detected. No stroke, myocardial infarction or vascular complications were observed., Conclusions: A hybrid approach combining transaortic TAVI and OPCAB might be a safe and feasible method of treatment in high-risk patients presenting with severe AS and CAD who are not eligible for conventional surgical or interventional solutions., (© 2021 The Authors. Journal of Cardiac Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Literature on the air travel activities of patients supported by permanent mechanical assist devices is rare. To the best of our knowledge, no air travel guidelines or fitness prerequisites exist on whether and when ventricular assist device (VAD) patients are allowed to travel by plane after device implantation. In this study, we evaluated the topic of air travel after VAD implantation. This working group aimed to produce a report on air travel passengers supported by VADs, regarding their fitness to fly. Fifty left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients were surveyed in a worldwide multicenter study. The single survey was performed with a multimethod design, including interviews conducted face-to-face, online, and on phone. Out of 50 patients, 97% described their traveling by aircraft as perfect and uneventful during the flight. Eighty-five percent of the study participants consulted their medical practitioner before the flight. No patient reported the occurrence of a severe condition associated with flying. LVAD alarms, especially low flow alarms, did not occur in any of the devices. Thirty-five percent of the surveyed patients, however, stated a major problem pertaining to the security check procedures at the airport. The results of this study suggest that commercial air travel is safe for stable patients on permanent VAD support and traveling can be resumed securely after VAD implantation. Conscientious preparation by packing necessary devices, fluids, medications, and careful preparation for the airport security check is recommended., (© 2020 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with electrical remodeling, leading to cellular electrophysiological dysfunction and arrhythmia perpetuation. Emerging evidence suggests a key role for epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of ion channel expression. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) control gene expression through deacetylation of histone proteins. We hypothesized that class I HDACs in complex with neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF) determine atrial K + channel expression. AF was characterized by reduced atrial HDAC2 mRNA levels and upregulation of NRSF in humans and in a pig model, with regional differences between right and left atrium. In vitro studies revealed inverse regulation of Hdac2 and Nrsf in HL-1 atrial myocytes. A direct association of HDAC2 with active regulatory elements of cardiac K + channels was revealed by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Specific knock-down of Hdac2 and Nrsf induced alterations of K + channel expression. Hdac2 knock-down resulted in prolongation of action potential duration (APD) in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, whereas inactivation of Nrsf induced APD shortening. Potential AF-related triggers were recapitulated by experimental tachypacing and mechanical stretch, respectively, and exerted differential effects on the expression of class I HDACs and K + channels in cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, HDAC2 and NRSF contribute to AF-associated remodeling of APD and K + channel expression in cardiomyocytes via direct interaction with regulatory chromatin regions. Specific modulation of these factors may provide a starting point for the development of more individualized treatment options for atrial fibrillation.

In rare cases of extensive aortic root or mitral valve infective endocarditis (IE), severe calcification of the aortic and mitral valves, or double-valve procedures in patients with small aortic and mitral annuli, surgical reconstruction of the intervalvular fibrous body (IVFB) is required. A high mortality is generally associated with this procedure, and it is frequently avoided by surgeons due to a lack of experience. It is crucial to radically resect all tissues that are severely affected by IE to prevent recurrence in the patient. Our experience with the Commando procedure in patients with extensive double-valve IE involving the IVFB is presented in this article., (© 2020 The Authors. Journal of Cardiac Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Aims: Mitral valve regurgitation (MR) is common in patients with advanced heart failure (HF). Percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) via MitraClip (MC) has emerged as a feasible treatment strategy for these high-risk patients. However, as HF often further progresses, there is a frequent need for left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation in these patients. We aimed to investigate whether prior MC implantation affects the subsequent LVAD implantation and outcome., Methods and Results: Thirty-seven patients with advanced HF and significant MR who underwent LVAD implantation were retrospectively analysed. Follow-up data were collected at 1 year after LVAD implantation. Primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Secondary endpoint included peri-operative parameters and clinical development depicted as New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) level. Seventeen patients initially received a MC device (MC group), resulting in a significant reduction in MR grade. After MC, NYHA class and INTERMACS level further worsened, leading to subsequent LVAD implantation after a median time of 475 days in the MC group. At LVAD implantation, overall characteristics were comparable with those of the patients undergoing LVAD implantation without prior MC placement (no-MC group). Procedural data revealed a higher incidence of right ventricular (RV) failure needing mechanical RV assistance and a longer need for nitric oxide ventilation in the MC group after LVAD implantation. One-year survival was slightly better in the no-MC group compared with the MC group [41% (n = 7/17) vs. 65% (n = 13/20); P = 0.15], albeit event-free survival was comparable between both groups, MC and no-MC., Conclusions: LVAD implantation after MC is feasible and safe. However, in patients with advanced HF and severe MR, PMVR may only delay a needed LVAD implantation and thereby lead to poorer peri-operative RV function and impaired outcome. Arguably, these patients might benefit from the timely management of advanced HF by the means of early LVAD implantation or heart transplantation., (© 2020 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Objectives: Long-term data on isolated surgical tricuspid valve procedures is limited. Current guidelines on heart valve disease recommend valve repair over valve replacement. In this study we report our 12-year single-center experience with isolated surgical tricuspid valve repair in patients with various tricuspid valve pathologies., Methods: Between May 2007 and December 2019, 26 consecutive patients underwent isolated tricuspid valve annuloplasty/repair for various indications. In 18 patients (69.2%) an open ring or band annuloplasty (26.9 and 42.3%, respectively) was performed, 5 patients (19.2%) underwent a tightening of the annulus using the DeVega technique, 5 patients (19.2%) had a leaflet reconstruction with patch or bicuspidalization and in 3 patients (11.5%) a leaflet debridement was performed. In 15.4% of the cohort a combination of the techniques was utilized., Results: The mean follow-up time was 2.1 (0.3-5.0) years. Early survival at 30 days after surgery was 84.6%. Mean hospital stay was 11 (6.7-16) days. One-year survival was 73%. No patient required a redo procedure on the tricuspid valve during follow-up., Conclusion: Tricuspid valve repair is suggested as a treatment of choice according to recent guidelines on heart valve disease. If chosen correctly, various repair techniques provide good long-term results. Tricuspid valve repair may be safely applied in patients undergoing surgical isolated tricuspid valve procedures.

Background: The therapeutic success in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) leads to a growing number of adults with CHD (adult CHD [ACHD]) who develop end-stage heart failure. We aimed to determine patient characteristics and outcomes of ACHD listed for heart transplantation., Methods: Using data from all the patients with ACHD in 20 transplant centers in the Eurotransplant region from 1999 to 2015, we analyzed patient characteristics, waiting list, and post-transplantation outcomes., Results: A total of 204 patients with ACHD were listed during the study period. The median age was 38 years, and 62.3% of the patients were listed in high urgency (HU), and 37.7% of the patients were in transplantable (T)-listing status. A total of 23.5% of the patients died or were delisted owing to clinical worsening, and 75% of the patients underwent transplantation. Median waiting time for patients with HU-listing status was 4.18 months and with T-listing status 9.07 months. There was no difference in crude mortality or delisting between patients who were HU status listed and T status listed (p = 0.65). In multivariable regression analysis, markers for respiratory failure (mechanical ventilation, hazard ratio [HR]: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.11-1.81, p = 0.006) and arrhythmias (anti-arrhythmic medication, HR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.01-2.01, p = 0.044) were associated with a higher risk of death or delisting. In the overall cohort, post-transplantation mortality was 26.8% after 1 year and 33.4% after 5 years., Conclusions: Listed patients are at high risk of death without differences in the urgency of listing. Respiratory failure requiring invasive ventilation and possibly arrhythmias requiring anti-arrhythmic medication indicate worse outcomes on waiting list., (Copyright © 2020 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background and Objectives : The understanding of high body mass index (BMI) and outcomes after Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation continues to evolve and the relationship has not been established yet. In this study, we investigated the effects of obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m 2 ) on post-LVAD implantation outcomes. HeartWare LVAD and Heart Mate III LVAD were implanted. The primary outcome that was measured was mortality (in-hospital and on follow-up). The secondary outcomes that were measured were major adverse events. Materials and Methods : At our institution, the West German Heart and Vascular Center (Essen, Germany), from August 2010 to January 2020, a total of 210 patients received a long-term LVAD. Patients were stratified according to BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 representing the obesity threshold. The first group ( n = 162) had an average BMI of 24.2 kg/m 2 (±2.9), and the second group ( n = 48) had an average BMI of 33.9 kg/m 2 (±3.2). Baseline demographics were analysed alongside comorbidities per group. Results: Overall mortality was not significantly different between the obese group (51.1% n = 24) and the nonobese group (55.2%, n = 85) ( p = 0.619). The difference between the mean duration of survival of patients who expired after hospital discharge was insignificant (2.1 years ± 1.6, group 1; 2.6 years ± 1.5, group 2; p = 0.29). In-hospital mortality was unvaried between the two groups: group 1: n = 34 (44% out of overall group 1 deaths); group 2: n = 11 (45.8% out of overall group 2 deaths) ( p > 0.05). Postoperative complications were unvaried between the obese and the non-obese group (all with p > 0.05). However, a significant difference was found with regards to follow-up neurological complications (18.5% vs. 37.8%, p = 0.01) and LVAD thrombosis (14.7% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.01), as both were higher in the obese population. Conclusion: Obesity does not form a barrier for LVAD implantation in terms of mortality (in-hospital and on follow up). However, a significantly higher incidence of follow-up LVAD thrombosis and neurological complications has been found in the obese group of patients.

Aims: Acute right heart failure (RHF) is a severe complication of right ventricular infarction. The management of acute RHF poses a number of challenges, such as providing haemodynamic support. Temporary circulatory support (TCS) may be required upon failing medical therapy. The ProtekDuo® dual lumen cannula provides a minimally invasive option for (TCS) through a groin-free internal jugular vein approach. We present the largest patient series to date using the ProtekDuo® cannula as temporary right ventricular assist device (t-RVAD) in RHF after acute myocardial infarction (MI)., Methods and Results: From July 2016 to November 2019, 10 patients underwent t-RVAD implantation for RHF following acute MI. Transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography were performed in all patients to assess cardiac function, with a particular focus on RV function. Cumulative 30-day survival was 60%. Mean TAPSE was 6.4 ± 3.1 mm, mean fractional area change was 12.1 ± 4.2%, and mean right ventricular end diastolic area was 19.8 ± 2.7 cm 2 . Mean implantation time was 32.8 ± 8.3 min. Mean interval after first cardiac intervention was 4.6 ± 5.8 days. Mean t-RVAD time was 10.0 ± 7.4 days with a significant reduction in central venous pressure 19.3 ± 2.7 vs. 8.2 ± 2.6 mmHg, P < 0.001 and a significant increase in central venous saturation 52.8 ± 15.6 vs. 80.0 ± 6.0%, P < 0.001. Mean intensive care unit stay was 18.6 ± 12.2 days. Four patients were weaned from TCS. Two patients were bridged to a long-term paracorporeal RVAD. There were no t-RVAD associated complications. Causes of death (n = 4) were multiorgan failure, electromechanical dissociation, and haemorrhagic stroke. Mean follow-up time was 96.0 ± 107.6 days. No independent predictors of mortality were identified in univariate analysis., Conclusions: We show that groin-free, percutaneous implantation of the ProtekDuo® cannula is a feasible and safe tool for TCS in acute RHF post-MI. This approach provides the advantages of percutaneous implantation including complete mobilization and non-surgical bedside explantation, as well as the option for adding an oxygenator to the t-RVAD circuit., (© 2020 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Society of Cardiology.)

Background and Objectives: Since the first use of ventricular assist devices (VADs) as bridge to recovery and bridge to cardiac transplantation in the early 1990s, significant technological advances have transformed VAD implantation into a routine destination therapy. With improved survival, many patients present for cardiac surgery for conditions not directly related to their permanent mechanical circulatory support. The aim of this study was to analyze the indications and outcomes of non-cardiac surgeries (NCSs) of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients in tertiary center. Material and Methods: We present a single-center experience after 151 LVAD implantations in 138 consecutive patients between 2012-2019 who had to undergo NCS during a follow-up period of 37 +/- 23.4 months on left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Results: A total of 105 procedures was performed in 63 LVAD recipients, resulting in peri-operative mortality of 3.8%. Twenty-five (39.7%) of patients underwent multiple surgeries. We found no significant difference in cumulative survival associated with the performed surgical interventions ( p = 0.469). Conclusion: We demonstrated good overall clinical outcomes in LVAD patients undergoing NCS. With acceptable peri-operative mortality, NCS can be safely performed in LVAD patients on long-term support.

Transient outward K + current, I to , contributes to cardiac action potential generation and is primarily carried by K v 4.3 (KCND3) channels. Two K v 4.3 isoforms are expressed in human ventricle and show differential remodeling in heart failure (HF). Lidocaine and mexiletine may be applied in selected patients to suppress ventricular arrhythmias, without effects on sudden cardiac death or mortality. Isoform-dependent effects of antiarrhythmic drugs on K v 4.3 channels and potential implications for remodeling-based antiarrhythmic management have not been assessed to date. We sought to test the hypotheses that K v 4.3 channels are targeted by lidocaine and mexiletine, and that drug sensitivity is determined in isoform-specific manner. Expression of KCND3 isoforms was quantified using qRT-PCR in left ventricular samples of patients with HF due to either ischemic or dilated cardiomyopathies (ICM or DCM). Long (K v 4.3-L) and short (K v 4.3-S) isoforms were heterologously expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes to study drug sensitivity and effects on biophysical characteristics activation, deactivation, inactivation, and recovery from inactivation. In the present HF patient cohort KCND3 isoform expression did not differ between ICM and DCM. In vitro, lidocaine (IC 50 -K v 4.3-L: 0.8 mM; IC 50 -K v 4.3-S: 1.2 mM) and mexiletine (IC 50 -K v 4.3-L: 146 μM; IC 50 -K v 4.3-S: 160 μM) inhibited K v 4.3 with different sensitivity. Biophysical analyses identified accelerated and enhanced inactivation combined with delayed recovery from inactivation as primary biophysical mechanisms underlying K v 4.3 current reduction. In conclusion, differential effects on K v 4.3 isoforms extend the electropharmacological profile of lidocaine and mexiletine. Patient-specific remodeling of K v 4.3 isoforms may determine individual drug responses and requires consideration during clinical application of compounds targeting K v 4.3., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest A.K.R. reports educational support from Boston Scientific and Medtronic. D.T. reports receiving lecture fees/honoraria from Bayer Vital, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Daiichi Sankyo, Medtronic, Pfizer Pharma, Sanofi-Aventis, St. Jude Medical and ZOLL CMS. P.L. reports receiving lecture fees from Bayer Vital and Pfizer Pharma and educational support from Boston Scientific and Johnson & Johnson. B.S. reports personal fees for surgical proctoring services from Abbott. The remaining authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the content of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Cardiac amyloidosis, caused by deposition of immunoglobulin light chains (AL) or transthyretin (ATTR), carries a poor prognosis. Established risk scores for amyloidosis may not predict outcomes in those patients who develop advanced heart failure and who are potential candidates for heart transplantation. Here, we aimed to identify predictive parameters for patients with severe heart failure due to amyloidosis., Methods: Out of > 1000 patients with cardiac amyloidosis (AL or ATTR) admitted to our centre between September 1998 and January 2016, a cohort of 120 patients with a complete cardiac assessment at diagnosis, including right heart catheterization, echocardiography and biomarkers, was analysed retrospectively in this study. Primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. We performed univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, generated risk scores to predict outcomes in AL and ATTR amyloidosis and compared those to established risk models for amyloidosis., Results: In the Cox multivariate model, high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT; hazard ratio (HR) 1.003; confidence interval (CI) 1.001-1.005; p = 0.009) and mean pulmonary artery pressure (HR 1.061; CI 1.024-1.100; p = 0.001) were found to significantly and independently predict outcomes for AL amyloidosis, whereas QRS duration (HR 1.021; CI 1.004-1.039; p = 0.013), hsTnT (HR 1.021; CI 1.006-1.036; p = 0.006) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (HR 1.0003; CI 1.0001-1.0004; p = 0.002) were the best predictors for ATTR amyloidosis. A simple risk score ("HeiRisk") including these parameters for AL and ATTR allowed a more precise risk stratification in our patient population compared to established risk models., Conclusions: Risk stratification for cardiac amyloidosis with the newly developed "HeiRisk" score may be superior to other staging systems for patients with advanced heart failure due to amyloid cardiomyopathy.

Background The tandem of P domains in a weak inward rectifying K+ channel (TWIK)-related acid-sensitive K + channel (TASK-1; hK 2P 3.1) two-pore-domain potassium channel was recently shown to regulate the atrial action potential duration. In the human heart, TASK-1 channels are specifically expressed in the atria. Furthermore, upregulation of atrial TASK-1 currents was described in patients suffering from atrial fibrillation (AF). We therefore hypothesized that TASK-1 channels represent an ideal target for antiarrhythmic therapy of AF. In the present study, we tested the antiarrhythmic effects of the high-affinity TASK-1 inhibitor A293 on cardioversion in a porcine model of paroxysmal AF. Methods and Results Heterologously expressed human and porcine TASK-1 channels are blocked by A293 to a similar extent. Patch clamp measurements from isolated human and porcine atrial cardiomyocytes showed comparable TASK-1 currents. Computational modeling was used to investigate the conditions under which A293 would be antiarrhythmic. German landrace pigs underwent electrophysiological studies under general anesthesia. Paroxysmal AF was induced by right atrial burst stimulation. After induction of AF episodes, intravenous administration of A293 restored sinus rhythm within cardioversion times of 177±63 seconds. Intravenous administration of A293 resulted in significant prolongation of the atrial effective refractory period, measured at cycle lengths of 300, 400 and 500 ms, whereas the surface ECG parameters and the ventricular effective refractory period lengths remained unchanged. Conclusions Pharmacological inhibition of atrial TASK-1 currents exerts antiarrhythmic effects in vivo as well as in silico , resulting in acute cardioversion of paroxysmal AF. Taken together, these experiments indicate the therapeutic potential of A293 for AF treatment.

Background: Peritoneal ultrafiltration (pUF) in refractory heart failure (HF) reduces the incidence of decompensation episodes, which is of particular significance as each episode incrementally adds to mortality. Nevertheless, there are insufficient data about which patient cohort benefits the most. The objective of this study was to compare pUF in HFrEF and HFpEF, focusing on functional status, hospitalizations, surrogate endpoints and mortality., Methods: This study involves 143 patients, who could be classified as either HFpEF (n = 37, 25.9%) or HFrEF (n = 106, 74.1%) and who received pUF due to refractory HF., Results: Baseline eGFR was similar in HFrEF (23.1 ± 10.6 mg/dl) and HFpEF (27.8 ± 13.2 mg/dl). Significant improvements in NYHA class were found in HFpEF (3.19 ± 0.61 to 2.72 ± 0.58, P <  0.001) and HFrEF (3.45 ± 0.52 to 2.71 ± 0.72, P <  0.001). CRP decreased in HFrEF (19.4 ± 17.6 mg/l to 13.7 ± 21.4 mg/l, P = 0.018) and HFpEF (33.7 ± 52.6 mg/l to 17.1 ± 26.3 mg/l, P = 0.004). Body weight was significantly reduced in HFrEF (81.1 ± 14.6 kg to 77.2 ± 15.6 kg, P = 0.003) and HFpEF (86.9 ± 15.8 kg to 83.1 ± 15.9 kg, P = 0.005). LVEF improved only in HFrEF (25.9 ± 6.82% to 30.4 ± 12.2%, P = 0.046). BCR decreased significantly in HFrEF and HFpEF (55.7 ± 21.9 to 34.3 ± 17.9 P > 0.001 and 50.5 ± 68.9 to 37.6 ± 21.9, P = 0.006). Number of hospitalization episodes as well as number of hospitalization days decreased significantly only in HFpEF (total number 2.88 ± 1.62 to 1.25 ± 1.45, P <  0.001, days 40.4 ± 31.7 to 18.3 ± 22.5 days, P = 0.005)., Conclusions: pUF offers various benefits in HFpEF and HFrEF, but there are also substantial differences. In particular, hospitalization rates were found to be significantly reduced in HFpEF patients, indicating a greater medical and economical advantage. However, LVEF was only found to be improved in HFrEF patients. While pUF can now be regarded as an option to supplement classical HF therapy, further studies are desirable to obtain specifications about pUF in HFpEF, HFmEF and HFrEF patients.

Objectives: To assess, whether S. aureus nasal colonization is a risk factor for infections in patients with durable ventricular assist device (VAD)., Methods: Prospective, single-centre, cohort study (i) ascertaining S. aureus nasal colonization status of patients admitted for VAD-implantation and detecting time to first episode of VAD-specific or -related infection according to International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria during follow-up and (ii) comparing whole genomes of S. aureus from baseline colonization and later infection., Results: Among 49 patients (17 colonized, 32 non-colonized), S. aureus VAD-infections occurred with long latency after implantation (inter quartile range 76-217 days), but occurred earlier (log-rank test P = 0.006) and were more common (9/17, 52.9% vs. 4/32, 12.5%, P = 0.005; incidence rates 2.81 vs. 0.61/1000 patient days; incidence rate ratio 4.65, 95% confidence interval 1.30-20.65, P = 0.009) among those nasally colonized with S. aureus before implantation. We found a similar but less pronounced effect of colonization status when analysing its effect on all types of VAD-infections (10/17, 58.8% vs. 7/32, 21.9%, P = 0.01). These findings remained robust when adjusting for potential confounders and restricting the analysis to 'proven infections'. 75% (6/8) of paired S. aureus samples from colonization and VAD-infection showed concordant whole genomes., Conclusions: In patients with durable VAD, S. aureus nasal colonization is a source of endogenous infection, often occurring months after device-implantation and affecting mostly the driveline. Hygiene measures interrupting the endogenous route of transmission in VAD-patients colonized with S. aureus long-term may about half the burden of infections and require clinical scrutiny., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest Florian Mueller reports to have received fees as speaker outside the presented work from Abbott and Medtronic. Bastian Schmack reports to have received personal fees as surgical consultant outside the presented work from Abbott. All other authors, no conflicts., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Aims: Severely elevated pre-transplant pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) has been linked to adverse effects after heart transplantation (HTX). The impact of a moderately increased PVR before HTX on post-transplant outcomes remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an elevated pre-transplant PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm -5 (≥3.75 Wood units) on outcomes after HTX., Methods and Results: This observational retrospective single-centre study included 561 patients receiving HTX at Heidelberg Heart Center between 1989 and 2015. Patients were stratified by degree of pre-transplant PVR. Analyses covered demographics, post-transplant medication, mortality and causes of death after HTX, early post-transplant atrial fibrillation (AF), and length of the initial hospital stay after HTX. Ninety-four patients (16.8%) had a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm -5 (≥3.75 Wood units). These patients had a higher rate of early post-transplant AF [20.2 vs. 10.7%, difference: 9.5%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.9-18.1%, P = 0.01] and an increased 30 day post-transplant mortality (25.5 vs. 6.4%, hazard ratio: 4.4, 95% CI: 2.6-7.6, P < 0.01), along with a higher percentage of death due to transplant failure (21.2 vs. 4.1%, difference: 17.1%, 95% CI: 8.7-25.5%, P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm -5 (≥3.75 Wood units) as a significant risk factor for increased 30 day mortality after HTX (hazard ratio: 4.4, 95% CI: 2.5-7.6, P < 0.01). Kaplan-Meier estimator showed a lower 2 year survival after HTX (P < 0.01) in patients with a PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm -5 (≥3.75 Wood units)., Conclusions: Elevated pre-transplant PVR ≥ 300 dyn·s·cm -5 (≥3.75 Wood units) is associated with early post-transplant AF and increased mortality after HTX., (© 2020 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Background: Cardiogenic shock (CS) from biventricular heart failure that requires acute mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is associated with high mortality. Different MCS methods and techniques have emerged as a standard of care in CS. Nevertheless, the routine MCS approach carries multiple limitations such as limb ischemia, missing of left ventricular unloading and immobilization. We describe a method to establish a groin-free full support MCS in patients with CS without the need for thoracotomy. This is the first report of the ECPELLA 2.0 concept, a peripheral groin-free biventricular MCS in patients with acute CS., Methods and Results: We discuss two patients in acute CS (INTERMACS I) treated with two peripheral MCS devices (Impella 5.0 or 5.5 surgically via an axillary artery and ProtekDuo cannula percutaneously via a right internal jugular vein) as a bridge before the implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Biventricular assist device (BIVAD)-support duration was 9 and 15 days and both of the patients were successfully bridged to a durable LVAD. As our BIVAD-concept is groin-free, the patients started full mobilization as early as they were weaned from the respirator 2 days after the BIVAD-implantation. ECPELLA 2.0 provides a high cardiac output, right and left ventricular unloading with end-organ recovery and a possibility of administration of a membrane oxygenator. There were no device-related complications., Conclusion: The ECPELLA 2.0 biventricular support concept for patients suffering from an acute CS. Allows for rapid extubation, mobilization, and physical exercise while on full support. Additional application of a membrane oxygenator is easily feasible if required., (© 2019 The Authors. Journal of Cardiac Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: This single center study compares the different surgical techniques used in the treatment of acute aortic dissection type A (AADA) analyzing the influence of the extent of the surgical approach on outcome., Methods: From 1988 to 2012, 407 patients were operated for AADA. The cohort was divided into subgroups according to the surgical approach. These groups were compared with the supracommissural replacement group (SCR; n = 141). Groups included aortic valve sparing techniques (AVS; n = 29), Composite replacement (COMP; n = 119), COMP with total arch replacement (COMP+TAR; n = 27) and SCR with TAR (n = 75)., Results: Compared to SCR alone, operation (p = 0.005), bypass-, cross-clamp and circulatory arrest times were longer in SCR + TAR (all p < 0.001). Moreover, operation, bypass and cross clamp times were longer in COMP+TAR (p = 0.003, p = 0.002 and p < 0.001 respectively). COMP alone and AVS required longer cross-clamp time, too (p < 0,001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Overall 30-day mortality was 21% with the observed lowest rate after AVS (14%, SCR 18%, COMP 25%) but differences in 30-day mortality were not statistically significant. The estimated 10-year survival was 42%, especially AVS demonstrated a good 10-year survival (69%). David technique was superior to Yacoub technique concerning incidence of redo interventions (p = 0.036). Risk factors for early mortality included age, circulatory arrest, general malperfusion, bypass and operation time. Circulatory arrest per se was revealed as risk factor for long-term survival., Conclusions: Within our single center retrospective study concomitant aortic root repair or aortic arch replacement for AADA demonstrated acceptable early and long-term survival. Circulatory arrest, long bypass and operation times per se might be important risk factors for early mortality. AVS techniques can be performed safely and have good outcomes in acute aortic dissection repair.

Background: Ventricular assist devices (VAD) are increasingly used as long-term treatment for advanced heart failure. However, survival after VAD implantation is still unsatisfactory, and no specific outpatient follow-up algorithms have been formally established. Here, we evaluate the effect of an intensified follow-up protocol (IFUP) on survival rates and VAD-associated complications., Methods and Results: This is a retrospective study of 57 patients who received a VAD at our center between February 2013 and December 2017. Inclusion criteria were discharge home after VAD implantation and follow-up in our VAD outpatient clinic. Patients implanted after October 2015 (n = 30) were monitored according to IFUP. This protocol embodied formalized, multi-disciplinary clinical visits every 4-8 weeks including a cardiologist, a cardiothoracic surgeon and a VAD-coordinator and was characterized by optimized anticoagulation and wound management as well as guideline-directed medical therapy. One-year survival in the IFUP patients was 97%, compared to 74% in the pre-IFUP era (p = 0.01). Implementation of IFUP was associated with a 90% risk-reduction for 1-year mortality (relative risk 0.099; p = 0.048). The rate of complications, e.g., device thrombosis and major bleeding, was significantly reduced, resulting in superior event-free survival in the IFUP group (p = 0.003). Furthermore, by implementation of IFUP, a more stable anticoagulation adjustment was achieved as well as an improved adherence to guideline-directed medical therapy., Conclusion: Implementation of an IFUP for VAD patients is associated with a significant decrease in 1-year all-cause mortality. This emphasizes the need for more vigilance in the management of VAD patients by a dedicated multi-disciplinary team.

Background: Survival rates following cardiac transplantation continue to improve. Due to the scarcity of available organs, extended donor criteria have become more prevalent in clinical practice. In this context, the risk of developing cardiac pathology requiring surgical correction is increasing., Methods: Between January 1991 and October 2010, a total of 479 patients received cardiac transplantations at the University Hospital Heidelberg. Of those, 18 (3.8%) patients required subsequent cardiac surgery until 2018. Short- and long-term analyses were performed., Results: Indications for cardiac surgery included valvular disease (n = 16) with the majority of cases affecting the tricuspid valve (n = 10), while 6 patients received mitral valve surgery, of whom 3 patients underwent concomitant valve surgery. Other indications included CABG (n = 1) and re-transplantation (n = 1) for allograft dysfunction. Mean follow-up time was 6.5 years, while mean interval to surgery was 6.0 years. Early mortality was 11.1% (n = 2), while overall survival at 1, 5, and 10 years were, 88.1%, 81.4%, and 52.2%, respectively. Compared to an overall survival of that transplant cohort at 1, 5, and 10 years of 76.7%, 66.7%, and 52.4% percent, respectively (P = .271)., Conclusion: According to our data, redo cardiac surgery can be performed with acceptable mortality and morbidity. Atrioventricular valve pathology plays a chief role in these patients., (© 2019 The Authors. Clinical Transplantation Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Modern left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have evolved to become standard of care in severe heart failure (HF) patients. Right HF (RHF) is a major complication responsible for early mortality. Several techniques for temporary right ventricular assist device (t-RVAD) have been described before, baring relevant disadvantages such as limited mobilization or the need for re-thoracotomy. We describe the results of an alternative technique for t-RVAD using the Tandem Heart™ with ProtekDuo™ cannula., Methods: An institutional retrospective single centre outcome analysis was performed including all permanent LVAD recipients with concomitant groin-free t-RVAD support., Results: Between October 2015 and September 2017, 11 patients (10 male, 90.9%) were included. Preoperative NYHA class was 3.8±0.75 and INTERMACS class 3.5±1.5. Four (36.4%) patients were already on mechanical circulatory support (MCS) at time of implantation with 4 (36.4%) patients already on inotropic support. All LVAD implantations were performed on-pump and 3 cases (27.3%) were re-do cases. Mean t-RVAD duration was 16.8±9.5 days. Ten patients (90.9%) could be weaned from temporary RVAD support, 1 patient deceased on support. Mean ICU stay was 23.8±16.5 days, while 30-day survival was 72.7%. Follow-up was complete with 214.7±283 days. Three patients (27.3%) died following multi-organ failure (MOF), 1 patient (9.1%) following intracranial bleed 12 days after t-RVAD explantation. No severe t-RVAD associated complications were observed., Conclusions: Our technique allows for safe groin-free t-RVAD providing all advantages of percutaneous implantation including complete mobilization and bedside explantation without any need for operation., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Aims: Each episode of acute decompensated heart failure (HF) incrementally adds to mortality. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) offers an alternative therapeutic option in refractory HF and reduces the incidence of decompensation episodes. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of PD, in terms of functional status, surrogate endpoints, rate of hospitalizations, and mortality., Methods and Results: This study is based on the registry of the German Society of Nephrology, involving 159 patients receiving PD treatment due to refractory HF between January 2010 and December 2014. Body weight was reduced by PD (82.2 ± 14.9 to 78.4 ± 14.8 kg, P < 0.001), and significant improvements in New York Heart Association functional class (3.38 ± 0.55 to 2.85 ± 0.49, P < 0.001) were found already after 3 months. Left ventricular ejection fraction did not change (31.5 ± 13.8 to 34.0 ± 15.7%, P = 0.175). C-reactive protein improved with PD treatment (33.7 ± 52.6 to 17.1 ± 26.3 mg/L, P = 0.004). Blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio decreased significantly (148.7 ± 68.3 to 106.7 ± 44.8 mg/dL, P < 0.001). Hospitalization rates decreased significantly (total number 2.86 ± 1.88 to 1.90 ± 1.78, P = 0.001, and 39.2 ± 30.7 to 27.1 ± 25.2 days, P = 0.004). One year mortality was 39.6% in end-stage HF patients treated with PD., Conclusions: Peritoneal dialysis offers an additional therapeutic option in end-stage HF and is associated with improved New York Heart Association classification and reduced hospitalization. Although PD treatment was associated with various benefits, further studies are necessary to identify which patients benefit the most from PD., (© 2019 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition and a significant challenge for those working in intensive care, where it remains one of the leading causes of mortality. According to the sepsis-3 definition, sepsis is characterized by dysregulation of the host response to infection. The TREM-1 gene codes for the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1, which is part of the pro-inflammatory response of the immune system. This study aimed to determine whether the functional TREM-1 rs2234237 single nucleotide polymorphism was associated with mortality in a cohort of 649 Caucasian patients with sepsis. The 90-day mortality rate was the primary outcome, and disease severity and microbiological findings were analyzed as secondary endpoints. TREM-1 rs2234237 TT homozygous patients were compared to A-allele carriers for this purpose. Kaplan⁻Meier survival analysis revealed no association between the clinically relevant TREM-1 rs2234237 single nucleotide polymorphism and the 90-day or 28-day survival rate in this group of septic patients. In addition, the performed analyses of disease severity and the microbiological findings did not show significant differences between the TREM-1 rs2234237 genotypes. The TREM-1 rs2234237 genotype was not significantly associated with sepsis mortality and sepsis disease severity. Therefore, it was not a valuable prognostic marker for the survival of septic patients in the studied cohort.

Objectives:: Increasing incidence of end-stage heart failure has moved the therapy with left ventricular assist devices to the forefront of surgical treatment. Moreover, continuous sophistication in this technology has resulted in increasing proportion of patients on prolonged support. Early and late complications after left ventricular assist device as a bridge to transplantation and present factors associated with long-term support and long-term outcomes of patients supported for at least 1 year were compared., Methods:: A total of 163 consecutive patients who underwent left ventricular assist device implantation as bridge to transplantation were included. A total of 79 patients were supported for at least 1 year (long-term support), whereas 84 patients were supported for less than 1 year (short-term group)., Results:: Factors associated with a successful long-term support were male gender (p < 0.001), cessation of smoking at least 6 months prior to surgery (p = 0.045), previous implantation of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (p = 0.001) and rapid postoperative extubation (p = 0.018). Regarding echocardiographic parameters, higher left ventricular mass (p = 0.013) and larger left ventricular-end systolic (p = 0.008) and diastolic (p = 0.005) diameters prior to left ventricular assist device implantation were associated with long-term support. Short-term group showed higher mortality and higher proportion of patients who underwent device exchange due to device failure, and left ventricular assist device explantation for myocardial recovery was less frequent in the long-term support (p < 0.001). In addition, patients from the long-term support had significantly higher incidence of higher-grade aortic regurgitation (p = 0.005)., Conclusion:: Prolonged left ventricular assist device support as bridge to transplantation is associated with lower mortality and lower incidence of device failure requiring device exchange. However, long-term support reduces the chance of device explantation for myocardial recovery and increases the incidence of higher-grade aortic regurgitation in the follow-up.

Objective: The mortality associated with sepsis remains unacceptably high, despite modern high-quality intensive care. Based on the results from previous studies, anaemia and its management in patients with sepsis appear to impact outcomes; however, the transfusion policy is still being debated, and the ideal approach may be extremely specific to the individual. This study aimed to investigate the long-term impact of anaemia requiring red blood cell (RBC) transfusion on mortality and disease severity in patients with sepsis. We studied a general surgical intensive care unit (ICU) population, excluding cardiac surgery patients. 435 patients were enrolled in this observational study between 2012 and 2016., Results: Patients who received RBC transfusion between 28 days before and 28 days after the development of sepsis (n = 302) exhibited a significantly higher 90-day mortality rate (34.1% vs 19.6%; P = 0.004, Kaplan-Meier analysis). This association remained significant after adjusting for confounders in the multivariate Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio 1.68; 95% confidence interval 1.03-2.73; P = 0.035). Patients who received transfusions also showed significantly higher morbidity scores, such as SOFA scores, and ICU lengths of stay compared to patients without transfusions (n = 133). Our results indicate that anaemia and RBC transfusion are associated with unfavourable outcomes in patients with sepsis.