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BACKGROUND: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been widely used in patients with COVID-19, but uncertainty remains about the determinants of in-hospital mortality and data on post-discharge outcomes are scarce. The aims of this study were to investigate the variables associated with in-hospital outcomes in patients who received ECMO during the first wave of COVID-19 and to describe the status of patients 6 months after ECMO initiation.METHODS: EuroECMO-COVID is a prospective, multicentre, observational study developed by the European Extracorporeal Life Support Organization. This study was based on data from patients aged 16 years or older who received ECMO support for refractory COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic-from March 1 to Sept 13, 2020-at 133 centres in 21 countries. In-hospital mortality and mortality 6 months after ECMO initiation were the primary outcomes. Mixed-Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate associations between patient and management-related variables (eg, patient demographics, comorbidities, pre-ECMO status, and ECMO characteristics and complications) and in-hospital deaths. Survival status at 6 months was established through patient contact or institutional charts review. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04366921, and is ongoing.FINDINGS: Between March 1 and Sept 13, 2020, 1215 patients (942 [78%] men and 267 [22%] women; median age 53 years [IQR 46-60]) were included in the study. Median ECMO duration was 15 days (IQR 8-27). 602 (50%) of 1215 patients died in hospital, and 852 (74%) patients had at least one complication. Multiorgan failure was the leading cause of death (192 [36%] of 528 patients who died with available data). In mixed-Cox analyses, age of 60 years or older, use of inotropes and vasopressors before ECMO initiation, chronic renal failure, and time from intubation to ECMO initiation of 4 days or more were associated with higher in-hospital mortality. 613 patients did not die in hospital, and 547 (95%) of 577 patients for whom data were available were alive at 6 months. 102 (24%) of 431 patients had returned to full-time work at 6 months, and 57 (13%) of 428 patients had returned to part-time work. At 6 months, respiratory rehabilitation was required in 88 (17%) of 522 patients with available data, and the most common residual symptoms included dyspnoea (185 [35%] of 523 patients) and cardiac (52 [10%] of 514 patients) or neurocognitive (66 [13%] of 512 patients) symptoms.INTERPRETATION: Patient's age, timing of cannulation (FUNDING: None.

BACKGROUND: Among patients referred for cardiac surgeries, atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common comorbidity and a risk factor for post-operative arrhythmias (such as sinus node dysfunction or atrioventricular heart blocks), including those requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation.OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and long-term survival of post-operative PPM implantation in patients with pre-operative AF who underwent valve surgery with or without concomitant procedures.METHODS: Presented analysis pertains to the HEIST (HEart surgery In atrial fibrillation and Supraventricular Tachycardia) registry. During study period 11,949 patients underwent valvular (aortic, mitral or tricuspid valve replacement or repair) surgery and/or surgical ablation (SA) and were stratified according to post-operative PPM status.RESULTS: Permanent pacemaker implantation after surgery was necessary in 2.5% of patients, with a significant variation depending on the type of surgery (from 1.1% in mitral valve repair to 3.3% in combined mitral and tricuspid valve surgery). In a multivariate logistic regression model, tricuspid intervention (PCONCLUSION: In patients with pre-operative AF, the need for PPM implantation after valve surgery or SA is not an infrequent outcome, with SA not affecting its prevalence but actually improving long-term survival.

In-hospital mortality of adult veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) patients remains invariably high. However, little is known regarding timing and causes of in-hospital death, either on-ECMO or after weaning. The current review aims to investigate the timing and causes of death of adult patients during hospital admittance for V-V ECMO, and to define the V-V ECMO gap, which is represented by the patients that are successfully weaned of ECMO but still die during hospital stay. A systematic search was performed using electronic MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through PubMed. Studies reporting on adult V-V ECMO patients from January 2006 to December 2020 were screened. Studies that did not report on at least on-ECMO mortality and discharge rate were excluded from analysis as they could not provide the required information regarding the proposed V-V ECMO-gap. Mortality rates on-ECMO and after weaning, as well as weaning and discharge rates, were analyzed as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were the causes of death and complications. Initially, 35 studies were finally included in this review. Merely 24 of these studies (comprising 975 patients) reported on prespecified V-V ECMO outcomes (on-ECMO mortality and discharge rate). Mortality on V-V ECMO support was 27.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 22.5%-33.2%), whereas mortality after successful weaning was 12.7% (95% CI 8.8%-16.6%, defining the V-V ECMO gap). 72.2% of patients (95% CI 66.8%-77.5%) were weaned successfully from support and 56.8% (95% CI 49.9%-63.8%) of patients were discharged from hospital. The most common causes of death on ECMO were multiple organ failure, bleeding, and sepsis. Most common causes of death after weaning were multiorgan failure and sepsis. Although the majority of patients are weaned successfully from V-V ECMO support, a significant proportion of subjects still die during hospital stay, defining the V-V ECMO gap. Overall, timing and causes of death are poorly reported in current literature. Future studies on V-V ECMO should describe morbidity and mortality outcomes in more detail in relation to the timing of the events, to improve patient management, due to enhanced understanding of the clinical course.

Left ventricular free-wall rupture (LVFWR) is an uncommon but serious mechanical complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Surgical repair, though challenging, is the only definitive treatment. However, given the rarity of this condition, results following surgery are still not well established. The aim of this study was to review a multicenter experience with the surgical management of post-infarction LVFWR and analyze the associated early outcomes. Background: Left ventricular free-wall rupture (LVFWR) is an uncommon but serious mechanical complication of acute myocardial infarction. Surgical repair, though challenging, is the only definitive treatment. Given the rarity of this condition, however, results after surgery are still not well established. The aim of this study was to review a multicenter experience with the surgical management of post-infarction LVFWR and analyze the associated early outcomes. Methods: Using the CAUTION (Mechanical Complications of Acute Myocardial Infarction: an International Multicenter Cohort Study) database, we identified 140 patients who were surgically treated for post–acute myocardial infarction LVFWR in 15 different centers from 2001 to 2018. The main outcome measured was operative mortality. Multivariate analysis was carried out by constructing a logistic regression model to identify predictors of postoperative mortality. Results: The mean age of patients was 69.4 years. The oozing type of LVFWR was observed in 79 patients (56.4%), and the blowout type in 61 (43.6%). Sutured repair was used in the 61.4% of cases. The operative mortality rate was 36.4%. Low cardiac output syndrome was the main cause of perioperative death. Myocardial rerupture after surgery occurred in 10 patients (7.1%). Multivariable analysis revealed that preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (P

Objective Timing and causes of hospital mortality in adult patients undergoing veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) have been poorly described. Aim of the current review was to investigate the timing and causes of death of adult patients supported with V-A ECMO, and subsequently define the "V-A ECMO gap", which represents the patients who are successfully weaned of ECMO but eventually die during hospital stay. Data sources A systematic search was performed using electronic MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through PubMed. Studies reporting on adult V-A ECMO patients from January 1993 to December 2020 were screened. Study selection The studies included in this review were studies that reported more than 10 adult, human patients, and no mechanical circulatory support other than V-A ECMO. Data extraction Information extracted from each study included mainly mortality and causes of death on ECMO and after weaning. Complications and discharge rates were also extracted. Data synthesis Sixty studies with 9,181 patients were included for analysis in this systematic review. Overall mortality was 38.0% (95% confidence intervals (CI) 34.2-41.9%) during V-A ECMO support (reported by 60 studies) and 15.3% (95% CI 11.1-19.5%, reported by 57 studies) after weaning. Finally, 44.0% of patients (95% CI 39.8-52.2) were discharged from hospital (reported by 60 studies). Most common causes of death on ECMO were multiple organ failure, followed by cardiac failure and neurological causes. Conclusions More than one-third of V-A ECMO patients die during ECMO support. Additionally, many of successfully weaned patients still decease during hospital stay, defining the "V-A ECMO gap". Underreporting and lack of uniformity in reporting of important parameters remains problematic in ECMO research. Future studies should uniformly define timing and causes of death in V-A ECMO patients to better understand the effectiveness and complications of this support.

Aims Because reported mortality on veno-arterial (V-A) extracorporeal life support (ECLS) substantially varies between centres, the aim of the current analysis was to assess the outcomes between units performing heart transplantation and/or implanting ventricular assist device (HTx/VAD) vs. non-HTx/VAD units in patients undergoing V-A ECLS for cardiogenic shock.Methods and results Systematic search according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE databases until 30 November 2019. Articles reporting in-hospital/30-day mortality and centre's HTx/VAD status were included. In-hospital outcomes and long-term survival were analysed in subgroup meta-analysis. A total of 174 studies enrolling n = 13 308 patients were included with 20 series performed in non-HTx/VAD centres (1016 patients, 7.8%). Majority of patients underwent V-A ECLS for post-cardiotomy shock (44.2%) and acute myocardial infarction (20.7%). Estimated overall in-hospital mortality was 57.2% (54.9-59.4%). Mortality rates were higher in non-HTx/VAD [65.5% (59.8-70.8%)] as compared with HTx/VAD centres [55.8% (53.3-58.2%)], P Conclusions Survival after V-A ECLS differed according to centre's HTx/VAD status. Potentially different risk profiles of patients must be taken account for before definite conclusions are drawn.

OBJECTIVE: Preoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) increases risk of stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality after cardiac surgery. Despite encouraging results and guideline recommendations, surgical ablation (SA) for AF concomitant with other heart surgery remains low. In the current study we aimed to address the long-term mortality after SA concomitant with cardiac surgery.METHODS: This report pertains to the HEart surgery In atrial fibrillation and Supraventricular Tachycardia (HEIST) registry. We identified 20,765 adult patients (62% male) with preoperative AF who underwent conventional sternotomy heart surgery between 2010 and 2021 in 8 tertiary centers in Poland, Netherlands, and Italy. We used Cox proportional hazards models for computations and propensity score matching to minimize differences in baseline characteristics.RESULTS: Of included patients, 2755 (13.4%) underwent SA for AF. The highest rates of SA were observed for mitral interventions (mitral valve repair or replacement and tricuspid intervention, 25.2%), lowest for isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (6.2%). Patients in the SA group were younger (mean age 64.5 ± 9.0 years vs 68.7 ± 16.0 years; P < .001) and lower risk (mean European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation [EuroSCORE] II, 4.1 vs 5.7; P < .001). During the 11-year study period, there was a mortality reduction associated with SA (hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.52-0.62; P < .001). After propensity matching, 2750 pairs with similar baseline characteristics were identified. SA was associated with 16% mortality decline (hazard ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.75-0.94; P = .003).CONCLUSIONS: In this multicenter, retrospective, propensity matched study, SA concomitant with other cardiac surgery was associated with improved long-term survival regardless of baseline surgical risk.

OBJECTIVES Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has been recently considered and used for patients with post-acute myocardial infarction mechanical complications (post-AMI MC); however, information in this respect is scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in-hospital outcomes of patients with post-AMI MC submitted to VA-ECMO, and enrolled in the Extracorporeal Life Support Organizations (ELSO)’s data Registry. METHODS This was a retrospective review of the ELSO Registry to identify adult (>18 years old) patients with post-AMI MC who underwent VA-ECMO support between 2007 and 2018. The primary end point of this study was in-hospital survival. ECMO complications were also evaluated. RESULTS The patient cohort available for this study included 158 patients. The median age was 62.4 years (range 20–80). The most common post-AMI MC was ventricular septal rupture (n = 102; 64.5%), followed by papillary muscle rupture (n = 42; 26.6%) and ventricular free-wall rupture (n = 14; 8.9%). Approximately a quarter of patients (n = 41; 25.9%) had cardiac arrest before VA-ECMO institution. The median duration of VA-ECMO was 5.9 days (range 1 h–40.3 days). ECMO complications occurred in 119 patients (75.3%). Overall, survival to hospital discharge for the entire patient cohort was 37.3%. Patients who had ventricular septal rupture as primary diagnosis had higher in-hospital mortality (n = 66; 64.7%). CONCLUSIONS In patients with post-AMI MC, VA-ECMO provides haemodynamic stabilizations and carries a potential to reverse otherwise lethal course. ECMO complications, however, remain an important limitation. Further investigations are required to better evaluate the efficacy and safety of ECMO in this context.

Objective: While reported mortality rates on post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation vary from center to center, impact of baseline surgical status (elective/urgent/emergency/salvage) on mortality is still unknown. Methods: A systematic search was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement using PubMed/Medline databases until March 2018 using the keywords “postcardiotomy,” “cardiogenic shock,” “extracorporeal membrane oxygenation,” and “extracorporeal life support.” Relevant articles were scrutinized and included in the meta-analysis only if reporting in-hospital/30-day mortality and baseline surgical status. The correlations between mortality and percentage of elective/urgent/emergency cases were investigated. Inference analysis of baseline status and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation complications was conducted as well. Results: Twenty-two studies (conducted between 1993 and 2017) enrolling N = 2,235 post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients were found. Patients were mostly of non-emergency status (65.2%). Overall in-hospital/30-day mortality event rate (95% confidence intervals) was 66.7% (63.3-69.9%). There were no differences in in-hospital/30-day mortality with respect to baseline surgical status in the subgroup analysis (test for subgroup differences; p = 0.406). Similarly, no differences between mortality in studies enrolling Conclusion: Other factors than baseline surgical status may, to a higher degree, influence the mortality in patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock. Baseline status, however, strongly influences the complication occurrence while on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

BACKGROUND: Frequent occurrence of paravalvular leak (PVL) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) was the main concern with early-generation devices and focused technological improvements. Current systematic review and meta-analysis sought to compare outcomes of TAVR for severe native valve stenosis with next-generation devices: Lotus and Sapien 3. METHODS: Electronic databases were screened for studies comparing outcomes of TAVR with Lotus and Sapien 3. In a random-effects meta-analysis, the pooled incidence rates of procedural, clinical and functional outcomes according to VARC-2 definitions were assessed. RESULTS: Eleven observational studies including 2,836 patients (Lotus N=862 vs. Sapien 3 N=1,974) met inclusion criteria. No differences were observed regarding composite endpoints—device success and early safety. Similarly, 30-day mortality, major vascular complications, acute kidney injury and serious bleeding events were similar with both devices. Lotus valve demonstrated 35% reduction of the risk for mild PVL: risk ratio (RR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.49–0.85, P=0.002; but there were no statistical differences with regard to moderate/severe PVL (RR 0.56, 95% CI: 0.18–1.77, P=0.320). Lotus valves produced significantly higher mean transaortic gradients: mean difference (MD) 0.88 mmHg, 95% CI, 0.24–1.53 mmHg, P=0.007; however, without translation into higher rate of prosthesis-patient mismatch (RR 1.10, 95% CI: 0.82–1.47, P=0.540). As compared to Sapien 3, Lotus device placement was associated with significantly higher rate of permanent pacemaker implantation (RR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.95–2.71, P

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is essential for the treatment of refractory cardiopulmonary failure. Its use may be complicated by worse haemorrhagic complications exacerbated by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation–related therapeutic anticoagulation. Progressive technological advancements have made extracorporeal membrane oxygenation components less thrombogenic, potentially allowing its application with temporary avoidance of systemic anticoagulants. A systematic review of all the available experiences, reporting the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without systemic anticoagulation in the published literature was performed. Only patient series were included, irrespective of the clinical indication. The survival, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation system–related dysfunction and complications rates, as well as in-hospital outcome, were analysed. Six studies were selected for the analysis. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was used in 84% of patients, while veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was applied in the remaining cases. Anticoagulation was avoided because of the high risk of bleeding after cardiac surgery (64%), active major bleeding (23%) or presence of severe traumatic injury (9%). Duration of support ranged from 0.3 to 1128 h. Heparin was antagonized by protamine in all the post-cardiotomy cases. Successfully extracorporeal membrane oxygenation weaning was achieved in 74% of the treated cases, with a hospital discharge of 58% of patients. Rates of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation malfunctioning due to clot formation and blood transfusion requirement varied remarkably in the published series. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without systemic anticoagulation appears feasible in selected circumstances. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate actual aspects regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation system performance, related adverse events and benefits associated with this management.

OBJECTIVES Pulmonary artery (PA) cannulation during peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been shown to be effective either for indirect left ventricular (LV) unloading or to allow right ventricular (RV) bypass with associated gas-exchange support in case of acute RV with respiratory failure. This case series reports the results of such peculiar ECMO configurations with PA cannulation in different clinical conditions. METHODS All consecutive patients receiving PA cannulation (direct or percutaneous) from January 2015 to September 2018 in 3 institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Isolated LV unloading or RV support, as well as dynamic support including initial drainage followed by perfusion through the PA cannula, was used as part of the ECMO configuration according to the type of patient and the patient’s haemodynamic/functional needs. RESULTS Fifteen patients (8 men, age range 45–73 years, EuroSCORE log range 14.45–91.60%) affected by acute LV, RV or biventricular failure of various aetiologies, were supported by this ECMO mode. Percutaneous PA cannulation was performed in 10 patients and direct PA cannulation, in 5 cases. Dynamic ECMO management (initially draining and then perfusing through the PA cannula) was carried out in 6 patients. Mean ECMO duration was 9.1 days (range 6–17 days). One patient exhibited pericardial fluid during the implant of a PA cannula (no lesion found when the chest was opened), and weaning from temporary circulatory support was achieved in 14 patients (1 who received a transplant). Three patients (20%) died in-hospital, and 12 patients were successfully discharged without major complications. CONCLUSIONS Effective indirect LV unloading in peripheral venoarterial ECMO as well as isolated RV support can be achieved by PA cannulation. Such an ECMO configuration may allow the counteraction of common venoarterial ECMO shortcomings or allow dynamic/adjustable management of ECMO according to specific ventricular dysfunction and haemodynamic needs. Percutaneous PA cannulation was shown to be safe and feasible without major complications. Additional investigation is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of such an ECMO configuration and management in a larger patient population.

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is established therapy for short-term circulatory support for children with life-treating cardiorespiratory dysfunction. In children with congenital heart disease (CHD), ECMO is commonly used to support patients with post-cardiotomy shock or complications including intractable arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and acute respiratory failure. Cannulation configurations include central, when the right atrium and aorta are utilized in patients with recent sternotomy, or peripheral, when cannulation of the neck or femoral vessels are used in non-operative patients. ECMO can be used to support any form of cardiac disease, including univentricular palliated circulation. Although veno-arterial ECMO is commonly used to support children with CHD, venovenous ECMO has been used in selected patients with hypoxemia or ventilatory failure in the presence of good cardiac function. ECMO use and outcomes in the CHD population are mainly informed by single-center studies and reports from collated registry data. Significant knowledge gaps remain, including optimal patient selection, timing of ECMO deployment, duration of support, anti-coagulation, complications, and the impact of these factors on short- and long-term outcomes. This report, therefore, aims to present a comprehensive overview of the available literature informing patient selection, ECMO management, and in-hospital and early post-discharge outcomes in pediatric patients treated with ECMO for post-cardiotomy cardiorespiratory failure. (C) 2019 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. All rights reserved.

Cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, acute respiratory failure, or a combination of such events, are all potential complications after cardiac surgery which lead to high mortality. Use of extracorporeal temporary cardio-circulatory and respiratory support for progressive clinical deterioration can facilitate bridging the patient to recovery or to more durable support. Over the last decade, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has emerged as the preferred temporary artificial support system in such circumstances. Many factors have contributed to widespread ECMO use, including the relative ease of implantation, effectiveness, versatility, low cost relative to alternative devices, and potential for full, not just partial circulatory support. While there have been numerous publications detailing the short and midterm outcomes of ECMO support, specific reports about post-cardiotomy ECMO (PC-ECMO), are limited, single-center experiences. Etiology of cardiorespiratory failure leading to ECMO implantation, associated ECMO complications, and overall patient outcomes may be unique to the PC-ECMO population. Despite the rise in PC-ECMO use over the past decade, short-term survival has not improved. This report, therefore, aims to present a comprehensive overview of the literature with respect to the prevalence of ECMO use, patient characteristics, ECMO management, and in-hospital and early post-discharge patient outcomes for those treated for post-cardiotomy heart, lung, or heart-lung failure. (C) 2019 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. All rights reserved.

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) has been used to deal with life-threatening complications as well as back-up or active cardiovascular support during high-risk procedures in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). PubMed and MEDLINE electronic databases were searched in order to identify studies with emergency or prophylactic V-A ECMO application in association with TAVI procedures. From November 2012 to November 2017, 14 relevant studies were identified that included 5,115 TAVI patients of whom 102 (2%) required V-A ECMO (22 prophylactically, 66 as an emergency and 14 without a reported indication). The reason for emergency V-A ECMO institution was detailed in 64 patients: left ventricle free wall rupture (n = 14), haemodynamic instability (n = 12), ventricular arrhythmias (n = 7), aortic annulus rupture (n = 6), coronary obstruction (n = 6), low left ventricular output (ejection fraction

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicating ischemic stroke is a well known and undertreated event. A conservative management is not infrequent in these settings, due to the fear of hemorrhagic complications related to antithrombotic therapy. Notably, an invasive approach with a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been shown to be associated with a lower in-hospital mortality in patients with concomitant ischemic stroke and AMI. The optimal antiplatelet regimen in these cases has been not clearly defined, yet. We report two cases of patients with AMI complicating ischemic stroke, successfully treated with cangrelor infusion, which was started during PCI and maintained up to 48 h at bridge therapy dosage (0.75 mcg/kg/min). Both patients underwent successful PCI in the acute phase, and neither ischemic nor hemorrhagic complications occurred during in-hospital stay.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in the veno-arterial (VA) configuration is an established method for the treatment of refractory cardiogenic shock. Such a condition characterizes the postoperative course of approximatively 1% of cardiac surgery patients. Although some studies have reported ECMO-related short-term results, little is known about the long-term outcomes of VA-ECMO therapy in the post-cardiotomy setting. Therefore, an extensive literature search was conducted regarding articles published after 1990 reporting postoperative ECMO use. PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched for sources. In-hospital mortality was high in post-cardiotomy VA-ECMO patients, ranging from 24.8% to 52%. Long-term results were poorly reported. However, based on the limited information available, hospital survivors showed a favorable outcome, with improvement in overall clinical condition, quality of life and limited hospital readmission for cardiac-related events. To conclude, in-hospital outcome in post-cardiotomy ECMO is often unfavorable, post-discharge results show satisfactory condition, with stable improvement of overall patient clinical status and low rate of hospital readmission and cardiac-related adverse events. Data reporting is, however, scarce and hence new and detailed studies are still warranted to investigate such aspects.

Background: Left ventricular (LV) afterload increase with protracted aortic valve (AV) closure may represent a complication of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO). The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) to overcome such a hemodynamic shortcoming in patients submitted to peripheral V-A ECMO. Methods: Among 184 adult patients who were treated with peripheral V-A ECMO support at Medical University Center Maastricht Hospital between 2007 and 2018, patients submitted to IABP implant for protracted AV closure after V-A ECMO implant were retrospectively identified. All clinical and hemodynamic data, including echocardiographic monitoring, were collected and analyzed. Results: During the study period, 10 subjects (mean age 60 years old, 80% males) underwent IABP implant after peripheral V-A ECMO positioning due to the diagnosis of protracted AV closure and inefficient LV unloading as assessed by echocardiography and an absence of pulsation in the arterial pressure wave. Recovery of blood pressure pulsatility and enhanced LV unloading were observed in 8 patients after IABP placement, with no significant differences in the main hemodynamic parameters, inotropic therapy or in the ECMO flow (p=0.48). The weaning rate in this patient subgroup (mean ECMO duration 8 days), however, was only 10%, with another patient finally transplanted, leading to a 20% survival-to-hospital discharge. Conclusion: IABP placement was an effective solution in order to reverse the protracted AV closure and impaired LV unloading observed during peripheral V-A ECMO support. However, the impact on the weaning rate and survival needs further investigations.

The aim of this study was to quantify and understand the unloading effect of percutaneous balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) in acute cardiogenic shock (CS) treated with venoarterial (VA) extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO).In CS treated with VA ECMO, increased left ventricular (LV) afterload is observed that commonly interferes with myocardial recovery or even promotes further LV deterioration. Several techniques for LV unloading exist, but the optimal strategy and the actual extent of such procedures have not been fully disclosed.In a porcine model (n = 11; weight 56 kg [53-58 kg]), CS was induced by coronary artery balloon occlusion (57 minutes [53-64 minutes]). Then, a step-up VA ECMO protocol (40-80 mL/kg/min) was run before and after percutaneous BAS was performed. LV pressure-volume loops and multiple hemoglobin saturation data were evaluated. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to assess individual variable differences.Immediately after BAS while on VA ECMO support, LV work decreased significantly: pressure-volume area, end-diastolic pressure, and stroke volume to ∼78% and end-systolic pressure to ∼86%, while superior vena cava and tissue oximetry did not change. During elevating VA ECMO support (40-80 mL/kg/min) with BAS vs without BAS, we observed 1) significantly less mechanical work increase (122% vs 172%); 2) no end-diastolic volume increase (100% vs 111%); and 3) a considerable increase in end-systolic pressure (134% vs 144%).In acute CS supported by VA ECMO, atrial septostomy is an effective LV unloading tool. LV pressure is a key component of LV work load, so whenever LV work reduction is a priority, arterial pressure should carefully be titrated low while maintaining organ perfusion.

Background. Ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a rare but life-threatening complication after acute myocardial infarction. Although surgical correction is challenging and associated with high mortality, it remains the treatment of choice. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the early outcome of surgical VSR repair.Methods. We searched electronic databases from January 1998 to February 2020. Studies reporting patients undergoing surgical treatment for VSR were analyzed. The primary outcome assessed was operative mortality. Differences were expressed as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the relationships of predefined surgical variables and clinical prognosis.Results. A total of 6361 adult patients from 41 studies were identified. Operative mortality was 38.2%. Pooled ORs showed increased odds of operative mortality in patients with preoperative or perioperative intraaortic balloon pump insertion (OR = 3.48; 95% CI, 3.01-4.02; P >= .001), right ventricular dysfunction (OR = 2.85; 95% CI, 1.47-5.52; P = .002), posterior VSR (OR = 1.73; 95% CI, 1.30-2.31; P >= .001), and emergency surgery (OR = 3.79; 95% CI, 2.52-5.72; P >= .001). Temporal trend evaluation revealed no difference over time in the operative mortality rate; it was 34% in both time-related groups (1971-2000 versus 2001-2018).Conclusions. Ventricular septal rupture repair has a high operative mortality. Patients with preoperative or perioperative intraaortic balloon pump support, right ventricular dysfunction at presentation, or posterior defects, and those undergoing emergent VSR correction have increased odds of operative mortality. (C) 2021 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc.

According to the “Fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction,” Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) is a “myocardial injury detected by abnormal cardiac biomarkers with clinical evidence of acute myocardial ischemia” [1]. The criteria include abnormal cardiac troponin (cTn) values with at least one value above the 99th percentile upper reference limit (URL), and at least one of the following

The peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal life support (V-A ECLS) in cardiogenic shock (CS) may lead to LV overload. The transaortic suction device (Impella, ABIOMED Inc., Danvers, MA) was compared to the pulmonary artery (PA) drainage, for LV unloading efficacy during V-A ECLS in a porcine cardiogenic shock model. A dedicated CS model included 12 swine (21 ± 1.8-week-old and weighing 54.3 ± 4.6 kg) supported with V-A ECLS and randomized to Impella or PA-related LV drainage. LV unloading and end-organ perfusion were evaluated through the PA catheter and LV pressure/volume analysis. The LV end-diastolic volume sharply dropped with Impella (143.6 ± 67.4 vs 123 ± 75.7 mL) compared to a slight decrease in the PA cannula group (134.1 ± 39.9 vs 130.1 ± 34.7 mL), resulting in an overall stroke work and pressure-volume area reductions with both techniques. However, stroke work reduction was more significant in the Impella group (V-A ECLS 3998.8 ± 2027.6 vs V-A ECLS + Impella 1796.9 ± 1033.9 mm Hg × mL, P = 0.016), leading to a more consistent pressure-volume area reduction (Impella reduction 34.7% vs PA cannula reduction 9.7%) In terms of end organ perfusion, central and mixed O2 saturation improved with V-A ECLS, and subsequently, remaining unchanged with either Impella or PA cannula as unloading strategy (SVmO2: Impella 86.0 ± 5.8 vs 87.8 ± 5.8; PA cannula 82.5 ± 10.7 vs 82.5 ± 11.3 %). Transaortic suction and PA drainage provided effective LV unloading during V-A ECLS while maintaining adequate end-organ perfusion. Impella provides a greater LV unloading effect and reduces more effectively the total LV stroke work.Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is indicated in refractory acute respiratory or cardiac failure. According to the need for anticoagulation, bleeding conditions (e.g., in trauma, pulmonary bleeding) have been considered a contraindication for the use of ECLS. However, there is increasing evidence for improved outcomes after ECLS support in hemorrhagic patients based on the benefits of hemodynamic support outweighing the increased risk of bleeding. We conducted a systematic literature search according to the PRISMA guidelines and reviewed publications describing ECLS support in hemorrhagic conditions. Seventy-four case reports, four case series, seven retrospective database observational studies, and one preliminary result of an ongoing study were reviewed. In total, 181 patients were identified in total of 86 manuscripts. The reports included patients suffering from bleeding caused by pulmonary hemorrhage (n = 53), trauma (n = 96), postpulmonary endarterectomy (n = 13), tracheal bleeding (n = 1), postpartum or cesarean delivery (n = 11), and intracranial hemorrhage (n = 7). Lower targeted titration of heparin infusion, heparin-free ECLS until coagulation is normalized, clamping of the endotracheal tube, and other ad hoc possibilities represent potential beneficial maneuvers in such conditions. Once the patient is cannulated and circulation restored, bleeding control surgery is performed for stabilization if indicated. The use of ECLS for temporary circulatory or respiratory support in critical patients with refractory hemorrhagic shock appears feasible considering tailored ECMO management strategies. Further investigation is needed to better elucidate the patient selection and ECLS management approaches.

Background The use of peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (V-A ECLS) as a mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock has increased dramatically over the last years. However, increased afterload may jeopardize left ventricle (LV) recovery and cause blood stasis and pulmonary edema. Therefore, several LV unloading techniques have been developed and used with limited understanding of the actual difference among them. The aim of the present study was to compare a trans-aortic suction device (Impella) and pulmonary artery (PA) drainage, for LV unloading and V-A ECLS management as well as efficacy in a porcine cardiogenic shock (CS) model Methods A dedicated CS model compared included twelve female swine (21± 1,8-weeks old and weighing 54,3 ± 4,6 kg) supported with V-A ECLS and randomized to Impella or PA-related LV drainage. LV unloading and end-organ perfusion were evaluated through the pulmonary artery catheter and the LV pressure/volume analysis. All the variables were collected at baseline, profound CS, V-A ECLS support with maximum flow and when Impella or PA cannula run on top. Results CS was successfully induced in all twelve animals. Impella resulted in a marked drop of LVEDV compared to a slight decrease in the PA cannula group, resulting in an overall stroke work (SW) and Pressure-Volume Area (PVA) reductions with both techniques. However, SW reduction was significant in the Impella CP group (VA ECMO 3998.82027.6 mmHg x mL vs VAECMO + Impella 1796.9±1033.9 mmHg x ml, p value 0,016), leading to a more consistent PVA reduction (Impella reduction 34,7% vs PA cannula reduction 9,7%) In terms of end organ perfusion, central and mixed O 2 saturation improved with V-A ECLS, and subsequently, remaining unchanged with either Impella or PA cannula as unloading strategy Conclusions Trans-aortic suction and PA drainage provided effective LV unloading during V-A ECLS while maintaining adequate end-organ perfusion. Trans-aortic suction device provides a greater LV unloading effect and reduces more effectively the total LV stroke work.

During veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), the increase of left ventricular (LV) afterload can potentially increase the LV stress, exacerbate myocardial ischemia and delay recovery from cardiogenic shock (CS). Several strategies of LV unloading have been proposed. Systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement included adult patients from studies published between January 2000 and March 2019. The search was conducted through numerous databases. Overall, from 62 papers, 7581 patients were included, among whom 3337 (44.0%) received LV unloading concomitant to VA-ECMO. Overall, in-hospital mortality was 58.9% (4466/7581). A concomitant strategy of LV unloading as compared to ECMO alone was associated with 12% lower mortality risk (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.82&ndash, 0.93, p &lt, 0.0001, I2 = 40%) and 35% higher probability of weaning from ECMO (RR 1.35, 95% CI 1.21&ndash, 1.51, 0.00001, I2 = 38%). In an analysis stratified by setting, the highest mortality risk benefit was observed in case of acute myocardial infarction: RR 0.75, 95%CI 0.68&ndash, 0.83, I2 = 0%. There were no apparent differences between two techniques in terms of complications. In heterogeneous populations of critically ill adults in CS and supported with VA-ECMO, the adjunct of LV unloading is associated with lower early mortality and higher rate of weaning.

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Background Timing and causes of hospital mortality in adult patients undergoing veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) have been poorly described. Aim of the current review was to investigate the timing and causes of death of adult patients treated with V-A ECMO, and subsequently define the “V-A ECMO gap”, which represents the patients who are successfully weaned of ECMO but eventually die during hospital stay.Methods A systematic search was performed using electronic MEDLINE and EMBASE databases through PubMed. Studies reporting on adult V-A ECMO patients from January 1993 to October 2018 were screened. Timing, rates and causes of in-hospital mortality were analyzed.Results Sixty studies with 9,181 patients were included in this systematic review. Overall mortality was 37.6% during V-A ECMO support (reported by 60 studies) and 28.9% (57 studies) after weaning. Finally, 32.6% were discharged from hospital (60 studies). Most common causes of death on ECMO were multiple organ failure (MOF, 49.8%), followed by cardiac failure (20.6%) and neurological causes (15.7%). Most common causes of death after weaning were MOF (55.3%), followed by neurological complications (12.6%), persistent heart failure (10.7%) and pulmonary infections (6.8%).Conclusions More than one-third of adult V-A ECMO patients die during ECMO therapy. Additionally, almost one half of successfully weaned patients still decease during hospital stay, defining the “V-A ECMO gap”. Underreporting and lack of uniformity in reporting of important parameters remains problematic in ECMO research. Future studies should uniformly define timing and causes of death in V-A ECMO patients to better understand the effectiveness and complications of this therapy. Systematic review registration PROSPERO 2019 number CRD42019130815

Introduction: Phaeochromocytoma is a catecholamine-secreting tumour associated with clinical presentation ranging from paroxysmal hypertension to intractable cardiogenic shock. Extracorporeal life support, in veno-arterial mode, application in refractory acute heart dysfunction is sharply increasing worldwide. However, its clinical utility in phaeochromocytoma-induced cardiogenic shock remains still unclear. Methods: A systematic review of published reports was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Statement. Searches were accomplished on PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar to identify articles describing the use of extracorporeal life support in the setting of phaeochromocytoma-induced cardiogenic shock (PROSPERO: CRD42019125225). Results: Thirty-five reports, including 62 patients supported with extracorporeal life support because of intractable phaeochromocytoma crisis, were included for the analysis. Almost all the subjects underwent peripheral cannulation for extracorporeal life support. The median duration of the mechanical circulatory support was 5 days, and most of the patients recovered normal myocardial function (left ventricular ejection fraction ⩾50%). In-hospital survival was 87%. Phaeochromocytoma was removed surgically during extracorporeal life support in 10 patients (16%), while in the remaining after haemodynamic stabilization and weaning from the mechanical support. Conclusion: Successful management of phaeochromocytoma-induced cardiogenic shock depends on prompt recognition and immediate treatment of shock. In this scenario, extracorporeal life support may play a significant role allowing cardiac and end-organ recovery and giving time for accurate diagnosis and specific treatment.

Background Postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) that is refractory to inotropic support remains a major concern in cardiac surgery and is almost universally fatal unless treated with mechanical support. While reported mortality rates on ECMO vary from center to center, aim of the current report is assess if the outcomes differ between centres according to volume and heart transplantation status. Methods A systematic search was performed according to PRISMA statement using PubMed/Medline databases between 2010 and 2018. Relevant articles were scrutinized and included in the meta-analysis only if reporting in-hospital/30-day mortality and heart transplantation status of the centre. Paediatric and congenital heart surgery-related studies along with those conducted in the setting of veno-venous ECMO for respiratory distress syndrome were excluded. Differences were assessed by means of subgroup meta-analysis and meta-regression. Results Fifty-four studies enrolling N = 4421 ECMO patients were included. Of those, 6 series were performed in non-HTx centres (204 pts.;4.6%). Overall 30-day survival (95% Confidence Intervals) was 35.3% (32.5–38.2%) and did not statistically differ between non-HTx: 33.3% (26.8–40.4%) and HTx centres: 35.7% (32.7–38.8%); Pinteraction = 0.531. There was no impact of centre volume on survival as well: ßcoef = 0.0006; P = 0.833. No statistical differences were seen between HTx and non-HTx with respect to ECMO duration, limb complications, reoperations for bleeding, kidney injury and sepsis. There were however significantly less neurological complications in the HTx as compared to non-HTx centres: 11.9% vs 19.5% respectively; P = 0.009; an inverse relationship was seen for neurologic complications in centres performing more ECMOs annually ßcoef = − 0.0066; P = 0.031. Weaning rates and bridging to HTx and/or VADs were higher in HTx facilities. Conclusions There was no apparent difference in survival after ECMO implantation for refractory PCS according to centre’s ECMO volume and transplantation status. Potentially different risk profiles of patients in these centres must be taken account for before definite conclusions are drawn.

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) use in patients with active bleedings or traumatic injuries may be challenging because of the risk of refractory haemorrhage related to systemic anticoagulation (SA). Technological advancements, especially heparin coated circuits, allowed ECMO application with a mild or no anticoagulation regimen in some circumstances. We herein report a limited case-series of ECMO application without anticoagulation.Methods: ECMO without SA was established in 6 patients. Four of them received veno-arterial mode. Full heparin antagonization with protamine was provided in 3 post-cardiotomy cases. Tip-to-tip heparin-coated ECMO circuit was used in 4 patients, whereas heparin-coated tubing and no heparin-coated cannulas were applied for the remaining subjects.Results: Mean duration of support and pump flow were 10 +/- 4 hours and 3.0 +/- 0.7 litres respectively. No ECMO related complication or oxygenator failure occurred, nor was clotting of the circuit observed at inspection. All patients were weaned from ECMO and half of them survived and were discharged.Conolusions: Short ECMO duration without anticoagulation was feasible and provided effective cardiopulmonary support in patients with active bleeding or high hemorrhagic risk. Further investigations are needed to evaluate its benefits or limitations for a protracted time, in a wider range of clinical conditions and in larger patient populations.

Frequent occurrence of paravalvular leak (PVL) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) was the main concern with earlier-generation devices. Current meta-analysis compared outcomes of TAVR with next-generation devices: ACURATE neo and SAPIEN 3. In random-effects meta-analysis, the pooled incidence rates of procedural, clinical and functional outcomes according to VARC-2 definitions were assessed. One randomized controlled trial and five observational studies including 2818 patients (ACURATE neo n = 1256 vs. SAPIEN 3 n = 1562) met inclusion criteria. ACURATE neo was associated with a 3.7-fold increase of moderate-to-severe PVL (RR (risk ratio): 3.70 (2.04&ndash, 6.70), P &lt, 0.0001), which was indirectly related to higher observed 30-day mortality with ACURATE valve (RR: 1.77 (1.03&ndash, 3.04), P = 0.04). Major vascular complications, acute kidney injury, periprocedural myocardial infarction, stroke and serious bleeding events were similar between devices. ACURATE neo demonstrated lower transvalvular pressure gradients both at discharge (P &lt, 0.00001) and at 30 days (P &lt, 0.00001), along with lower risk of patient&ndash, prosthesis mismatch (RR: 0.29 (0.10&ndash, 0.87), P = 0.03) and pacemaker implantation (RR: 0.64 (0.50&ndash, 0.81), P = 0.0002), but no differences were observed regarding composite endpoints early safety and device success. In conclusion, ACURATE neo, as compared with SAPIEN 3, was associated with higher rates of moderate-to-severe PVL, which were indirectly linked with increased observed 30-day all-cause mortality.

Introduction/Aim Veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐A ECMO) support is increasingly used in refractory cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest, but is characterized by a rise in afterload of the left ventricle (LV) which may ultimately either further impair or delay cardiac contractility improvement. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview regarding the different LV venting techniques and results currently available in the literature. Methods A systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed database: 207 articles published between 1993 and 2016 were included. Papers dealing with pre‐clinical studies, overlapping series, and association with other assist devices were excluded from the review, with 45 published papers finally selected. Heterogeneous indications for LV unloading were reported. The selected literature was divided into subgroups, according to the location or the performed procedure for LV venting. Results Case reports or case series accounted for 60% of the papers, while retrospective study represented 29% of them. Adult series were present in 67%, paediatric patients in 29%, and a mixed population in 4%. LV unloading was performed percutaneously in 84% of the cases. The most common locations of unloading was the left atrium (31%), followed by indirect unloading (intra‐aortic balloon pump) (27%), trans‐aortic (27%), LV (11%), and pulmonary artery (4%). Percutaneous trans‐septal approach was reported in 22%. Finally, the unloading was conducted surgically in 16%,with open chest surgery in 71%, and minimally invasive surgery in 29% of surgical cases. Conclusion Nowadays, only a few data are available about left heart unloading in V‐A ECMO support. Despite the well‐known controversy, IABP remains widely used in combination with V‐A ECMO. Percutaneous approaches utilizing unloading devices is becoming an increasingly used option. However, further studies are required to establish the optimal LV unloading method.

Heart failure is characterized by ventriculo-arterial decoupling which decreases myocardial efficiency and is exacerbated by tachycardia and by increased total peripheral resistance that worsen static arterial elastance; unlike aortic pressure by itself, this measure is independent of the function of the ventricle. Therefore, it is an index which describes arterial properties.We investigated the effect of intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation on arterial elastance, a variable which can be obtained non-invasively, in patients with acute decompensated heart failure deteriorated in low output state.17 out of 24 patients admitted for acute decompensated heart failure underwent intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation insertion for hemodynamic worsening condition despite medical therapy.Hemodynamic variables were obtained with a pulmonary artery catheter; arterial elastance and cardiac power index were calculated.Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation was associated with a decrease of the arterial elastance median value (1.64 vs. 1.28 mmHg/ml- P = 0.04) along withan increase in cardiac power index (0.29, vs 0.40, W/m; P = 0.02 ). Mixed venous saturation (53 mmHg, vs 70 mmHg; P = 0.007) and pulmonary mean arterial pressure (41 vs 30 mmHg; P = 0.005) significantly changed after intraortic balloon counterpulsation insertion. No significant changes in heart rate (median 80, vs 80, bpm; P = 0.809) were observed.Intraortic balloon counterpulsation may effectively improve arterial elastance on top of a conservative use of inotropes/vasopressors, with a significant improvement in hemodynamics.

Background: Postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) that is refractory to inotropic support remains a major concern in cardiac surgery and is almost universally fatal unless treated with mechanical support. While reported mortality rates on ECMO vary from center to center, aim of the current report is assess if the outcomes differ between centres according to volume and heart transplantation status. Methods: A systematic search was performed according to PRISMA statement using PubMed/Medline databases between 2010 and 2018. Relevant articles were scrutinized and included in the meta-analysis only if reporting in-hospital/30-day mortality and heart transplantation status of the centre. Differences were assessed by means of subgroup meta-analysis and meta-regression. Results: Fifty-four studies enrolling N=4,421 ECMO patients were included. Of those, 6 series were performed in non-HTx centres (204 pts;4.6%). Overall 30-day survival (95% Confidence Intervals) was 35.3% (32.5-38.2%) and did not statistically differ between non-HTx: 33.3% (26.8-40.4%) and HTx centres: 35.7% (32.7-38.8%); Pinteraction=0.531. There was no impact of centre volume on survival as well: ßcoef=0.0006; P=0.833. No statistical differences were seen between HTx and non-HTx with respect to ECMO duration, limb complications, reoperations for bleeding, kidney injury and sepsis. There were however significantly less neurological complications in the HTx as compared to non-HTx centres: 11.9% vs 19.5% respectively; P=0.009; an inverse relationship was seen for neurologic complications in centres performing more ECMOs annually ßcoef=-0.0066; P=0.031. Weaning rates and bridging to HTx and/or VADs were higher in HTx facilities. Conclusions: There was no apparent difference in survival after ECMO implantation for refractory PCS according to centre’s ECMO volume and transplantation status. Potentially different risk profiles of patients in these centres must be taken account for before definite conclusions are drawn.