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Background and Aims: Cardiac surgery often necessitates considerable post-operative vasoactive-inotropic support. Given an encouraging literature on the prognostic potential of leucoglycemic index (LGI) [serum glucose (mg/dl) × total leucocytes count (cells/mm3)/1000], we aimed to evaluate whether intensive care unit (ICU)-admission LGI can predict post-operative vasopressor-inotropic requirements following cardiac surgery on cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB). Material and Methods: The data of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at our tertiary care center between January 2015 and December 2020 was retrospectively reviewed. The vasopressor-inotropic requirement was estimated using the VIS (vasoactive-inotropic score) values over the first post-operative 72 hrs. Subsequently, VISi (indexed VIS) was computed as maxVIS[0-24hrs] + maxVIS[24-48hrs] +2 × maxVIS[48-72hrs]/10), and the study participants were divided into h-VISi (VISi ≥3) and l-VISi (VISi

Background and Aims: Cardiac surgery often necessitates considerable post-operative vasoactive-inotropic support. Given an encouraging literature on the prognostic potential of leucoglycemic index (LGI) [serum glucose (mg/dl) × total leucocytes count (cells/mm3)/1000], we aimed to evaluate whether intensive care unit (ICU)-admission LGI can predict post-operative vasopressor-inotropic requirements following cardiac surgery on cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB). Material and Methods: The data of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at our tertiary care center between January 2015 and December 2020 was retrospectively reviewed. The vasopressor-inotropic requirement was estimated using the VIS (vasoactive-inotropic score) values over the first post-operative 72 hrs. Subsequently, VISi (indexed VIS) was computed as maxVIS[0-24hrs] + maxVIS[24X48hrs] +2 × maxVIS[48-72hrs]/10), and the study participants were divided into h-VISi (VISi =3) and l-VISi (VISi <3). Results: Out of 2138 patients, 479 (22.40%) patients categorized as h-VISi. On univariate analysis: LGI, age, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation score (EuroSCORE II), left-ventricle ejection fraction, prior congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic renal failure, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, combined surgeries, CPB and aortic cross-clamp (ACC) duration, blood transfusion, and immediate post-operative glucose were significant h-VISi predictors. Subsequent to multi-variate analysis, the predictive performance of LGI (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.03-1.14; P = 0.002) prior CHF (OR: 2.35; 95% CI: 1.44-3.82; P = 0.001), CPB time (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02-1.14; P = 0.019), ACC time (OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02-1.04; P = 0.008), and EuroSCORE II (OR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.06-1.21; P < 0.001) remained significant. With 1484.75 emerging as the h-VISi predictive cut-off, patients with LGI = 1484.75 also had a higher incidence of vasoplegia, low-cardiac output syndrome, new-onset atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury, and mortality. LGI additionally exhibited a significant positive correlation with duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay (R = 0.495 and 0.564, P value < 0.001). Conclusion: An elevated LGI of greater than 1484.75 independently predicted a VISindex =3 following adult cardiac surgery on CPB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Heart surgical intervention is complex, but with satisfactory results for the patient, because it increases his survival and life quality. The low cardiac output syndrome in the postoperative period is one of the entities that darkens the prognosis of this operation and elevates the morbidity and mortality indexes in these patients. Objective: To estimate the survival of patients with low cardiac output syndrome in the postoperative period according to clinical and echocardiographyc variables. Methods: A cohort investigation of survival in 56 operated patients was carried out, who were diagnosed with postoperative low cardiac output syndrome and were assisted in the Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery Center of Santiago de Cuba, from January, 2019 to November, 2021. Results: There was prevalence of the 65 years and over age group (60.7%), the diabetes mellitus (44.6%) as personal pathological history and patients with ejection fraction of 45% or more who presented higher quantity of deaths (29.8%). The function of the affected right ventricle was found in 52.6% of deaths. The time of extracorporeal circulation of 90 minutes or more prevailed in 67.9% of those affected, of whom 42.1% died. Conclusions: It was observed that diabetes mellitus, the time of extracorporeal circulation and the long perioperative bleeding, as well as the biventricular systolic function was related to the prognosis of low cardiac output syndrome in the postoperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A large arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a low-resistant circuit that affects organ perfusion and systemic hemodynamics even in standard conditions. The extent of its' effect in critical states has not been elucidated yet. We used norepinephrine to create systemic vasoconstriction, dobutamine to create high cardiac output, and rapid right ventricle pacing as a model of acute heart failure in a porcine model of high-flow AVF circulation. Methods: The protocol was performed on nine domestic female pigs under general anesthesia. AVF was created by connecting two high-diameter ECMO cannulas inserted in the femoral artery and vein. Continuous hemodynamic monitoring was performed throughout the protocol. Three interventions were performed--moderate dose of norepinephrine (0.25 ug/kg/min), moderate dose of dobutamine (10 ug/kg/min) and rapid right ventricle pacing to simulate low cardiac output state with mean arterial pressure under 60 mmHg. Measurements were taken with opened and closed arteriovenous fistula. Results: Continuous infusion of norepinephrine with opened AVF significantly increased mean arterial pressure (+20%) and total cardiac output (CO) (+36%), but vascular resistance remained virtually unchanged. AVF flow (Qa) rise correlated with mean arterial pressure increase (+20%; R = 0.97, p = 0.0001). Effective cardiac output increased, leading to insignificant improvement in organ perfusion. Dobutamine substantially increased cardiac output with insignificant effect on AVF flow and mean arterial pressure. Carotid artery blood flow increased significantly after dobutamine infusion by approximately 30%, coronary flow velocity increased significantly only in closed AVF state. The effective cardiac output using the heart failure model leading to decrease of carotid artery flow and worsening of brain and peripheral tissue oximetry. AVF blood flow also dropped significantly and proportionally to pressure, but Qa/CO ratio did not change. Therefore, the effective cardiac output decreased. Conclusion: In abovementioned extreme hemodynamic conditions the AVF flow was always directly proportional to systemic perfusion pressure. The ratio of shunt flow to cardiac output depended on systemic vascular resistance. These experiments highlight the detrimental role of a large AVF in these critical conditions' models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiogenic shock is a state of low cardiac output that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. A considerable proportion of patients with cardiogenic shock respond poorly to medical management and require acute mechanical circulatory support (AMCS) devices to improve tissue perfusion as well as to support the heart. In the last two decades, many new AMCS devices have been introduced to support the right, left, and both ventricles. All these devices vary in terms of the support they provide to the body and heart, mechanism of functioning, method of insertion, and adverse events. In this review, we compare and contrast the available percutaneous and surgically placed AMCS devices used in cardiogenic shock and discuss the associated clinical and hemodynamic data to make a conscious decision about choosing a device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate hemodynamic monitoring is vital in the diagnosis and management of critically ill patients. The best method for monitoring remains controversial, Adequate perioperative management guided by effective monitoring can help reduce the risk of complications and thus potentially improve outcomes. Aim of Work: To compare monitoring methods of cardiac output and systemic haemodynamics post cardiac surgery and its correlation to the clinical status of patients (reflected by clinical signs and laboratory assessment) and outcome, focusing on noninvasive cardiometry and echocardiography. Methodology: This is a cross sectional study that was conducted on 40 pediatric patients under 5 years old who were admitted to Post Cardiac Surgery Intensive Care Unit -Academic Institute of Heart Surgery undergoing corrective cardiac surgeries for congenital cardiac lesions. Assessment of hemodynamic changes during immediate post operative period was done by tracing and comparing vital data, echocardiography, non-invasive cardiometry parameters and levels of serum BNP and lactate in all patients at 6 hours and 24 hours post operatively. Results: There was statistically significant change in heart rate, urine output, lactate and BNP being high in 1st 6 hours then decreased in 24 hours assessment, versus the observed increase in temperature and SVO2 between the 2-time intervals in immediate post operative period. This was significantly correlated with the decrease in (TAPSE, thoracic fluid content, Cardiac index) and the increase in (LVOT, IVC collapsibility index, fluid total content) parameters by echocardiography and non-invasive cardiometry. Significant correlation was found between clinical evaluation of low cardiac output patients and TAPSE in the 1st 6 hours being decreased in low COP group, while with EF in the 1st 24 hours assessment being decreased in the low COP group. Thoracic fluid content measured by non-invasive cardiometry was significantly related to time on the bypass machine which may affect outcome of patients post operatively. Icon and echocardiography were significantly related on fluid assessment paraments between IVC collapsibility by echo and FTC, TFC by icon, this was also observed in contractility parameters between TAPSE by echo and cardiac index by icon. There was no significant correlation between the end outcome of the studied groups and the 1st 24 hours assessment. Conclusion: Clinical evaluation by the attended Physician observing low cardiac output signs and symptoms remains a corner stone in the assessment of haemodynamics in critically ill patients, however fluid assessment tools by both echocardiography and non-invasive cardiometry along with contractility assessment by echocardiography for both right and left ventricle potentially assists physician in his task. There is no upper role for non-invasive cardiometry over echocardiography in monitoring of haemodynamics postoperatively except for assessment of thoracic fluid content which may aid in ventilation and early extubation of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A large arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a low-resistant circuit that affects organ perfusion and systemic hemodynamics even in standard conditions. The extent of its’ effect in critical states has not been elucidated yet. We used norepinephrine to create systemic vasoconstriction, dobutamine to create high cardiac output, and rapid right ventricle pacing as a model of acute heart failure in a porcine model of high-flow AVF circulation.Methods: The protocol was performed on nine domestic female pigs under general anesthesia. AVF was created by connecting two high-diameter ECMO cannulas inserted in the femoral artery and vein. Continuous hemodynamic monitoring was performed throughout the protocol. Three interventions were performed–moderate dose of norepinephrine (0.25 ug/kg/min), moderate dose of dobutamine (10 ug/kg/min) and rapid right ventricle pacing to simulate low cardiac output state with mean arterial pressure under 60 mmHg. Measurements were taken with opened and closed arteriovenous fistula.Results: Continuous infusion of norepinephrine with opened AVF significantly increased mean arterial pressure (+20%) and total cardiac output (CO) (+36%), but vascular resistance remained virtually unchanged. AVF flow (Qa) rise correlated with mean arterial pressure increase (+20%; R = 0.97, p = 0.0001). Effective cardiac output increased, leading to insignificant improvement in organ perfusion. Dobutamine substantially increased cardiac output with insignificant effect on AVF flow and mean arterial pressure. Carotid artery blood flow increased significantly after dobutamine infusion by approximately 30%, coronary flow velocity increased significantly only in closed AVF state. The effective cardiac output using the heart failure model leading to decrease of carotid artery flow and worsening of brain and peripheral tissue oximetry. AVF blood flow also dropped significantly and proportionally to pressure, but Qa/CO ratio did not change. Therefore, the effective cardiac output decreased.Conclusion: In abovementioned extreme hemodynamic conditions the AVF flow was always directly proportional to systemic perfusion pressure. The ratio of shunt flow to cardiac output depended on systemic vascular resistance. These experiments highlight the detrimental role of a large AVF in these critical conditions’ models.

Background: Use of veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) in elderly patients is controversial because of presumed poor outcome. Our primary aim was to determine the influence of advanced age on short‐ and long‐term outcome; the secondary aim was to analyze risk factors for impaired outcome. Methods: Between January 2006 and June 2020, 645 patients underwent VA‐ECMO implantation in our department. The patients were categorized into four groups:<50, 50–59.9, 60–69.9 and ≥70 years old. Data were retrospectively analyzed for short‐ and long‐term outcome. Risk factors for in‐hospital mortality and mortality during follow‐up were assessed using multivariate regression analysis. Results: VA‐ECMO support duration was comparable in all age groups (median 3 days). Weaning rates were 60.8%/n = 104 (<50 years), 51.4%/n = 90 (50–59.9 years), 58.8%/n = 107 (60–69.9), and 67.5%/n = 79 (≥70, p = 0.048). Hospital mortality was highest in the patients aged 50–59.9 years (68%/n = 119), but not in the elderly patients (60–69.9, ≥70:62.1%/n = 113, 58,1%/n = 68). At discharge, the cerebral performance category scores were superior in the patients <50 years. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed chronic kidney failure requiring hemodialysis, duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and elevated blood lactate levels before VA‐ECMO, but not age as predictors of in‐hospital mortality. Cox's regression disclosed age as relevant risk factor for death during follow‐up. The patients' physical ability was comparable in all age groups. Conclusion: VA‐ECMO support should not be declined in patients only because of advanced age. Mortality and neurological status at hospital discharge and during follow‐up were comparable in all age groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. The influence of hyperhomocysteinemia on post-operative events, after coronary artery bypass surgery graft, is less studied. Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine if hyperhomocysteinemia was associated with post-operative complications in patients < 50 years who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass graft for coronary artery disease. A set of major post-operative complications were considered as primary outcome measures. The independent effect of hyperhomocysteinemia and other risk factors in the incidence of post-operative complications was determined by multivariate analysis. Results: The mean homocysteine levels among the study participants who had post-operative complications were significantly higher than those without post-operative complications (17.37 mmol/L vs. 12.84 mmol/L). On multivariate analysis, hyperhomocysteinemia, diabetes mellitus, and higher body mass index (> 25) were significant predictors of adverse events during the post-operative period. Conclusion: Hyperhomocysteinemia was a significant predictor of immediate post-operative adverse events after coronary artery bypass surgery graft. Necessary precautions and management strategies have to be evolved for these high-risk subsets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Low cardiac output is the main cause of perioperative death after pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis. We investigated the associated risk factors and consequences. Methods We selected constrictive pericarditis patients undergoing isolated pericardiectomy from January 2013 to January 2021. Postoperative low cardiac output was defined as requiring mechanical circulatory support or more than one inotrope to maintain a cardiac index > 2.2 L •min−1 •m−2 without hypoperfusion, despite adequate filling status. Uni- and multivariable analysis were used to identify factors associated with low cardiac output. Cox regression was used to identify factors associated with length of hospital stay. Results Among 212 patients with complete data, 55 (25.9%) developed low cardiac output within postoperative day 1 (quartiles 1 and 2), which caused seven of the nine perioperative deaths. The rates of atrial arrhythmia, renal dysfunction, hypoalbuminemia, modest-to-severe hyponatremia, and hyperbilirubinemia caused by constrictive pericarditis were 9.4%, 12.3%, 49.1%, 10.4%, and 81.6%. The mean preoperative central venous pressure and cardiac index were 18 ± 5 cmH2O and 1.87 ± 0.45 L•min−1•m−2. Univariable analysis showed that low cardiac output patients had higher rates of atrial arrhythmia (OR 3.32 [1.35, 8.17], P = 0.007), renal dysfunction (OR 4.24 [1.94, 9.25], P < 0.001), hypoalbuminemia (OR 1.99 [1.06, 3.73], P = 0.031) and hyponatremia (OR 6.36 [2.50, 16.20], P < 0.001), greater E peak velocity variation (difference 2.8 [0.7, 5.0], P = 0.011), higher central venous pressure (difference 3 [2,5] cmH2O, P < 0.001) and lower cardiac index (difference − 0.27 [− 0.41, − 0.14] L•min−1•m−2, P < 0.001) than patients without low cardiac output. Multivariable regression showed that atrial arrhythmia (OR 4.04 [1.36, 12.02], P = 0.012), renal dysfunction (OR 2.64 [1.07, 6.50], P = 0.035), hyponatremia (OR 3.49 [1.19, 10.24], P = 0.023), high central venous pressure (OR 1.17 [1.08, 1.27], P < 0.001), and low cardiac index (OR 0.36 [0.14, 0.92], P = 0.032) were associated with low cardiac output (AUC 0.79 [0.72–0.86], P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that hyperbilirubinemia (HR 0.66 [0.46, 0.94], P = 0.022), renal dysfunction (HR 0.51 [0.33, 0.77], P = 0.002), and low cardiac output (HR 0.42 [0.29, 0.59], P < 0.001) were associated with length of hospital stay. Conclusions Early recognition and management of hyponatremia, renal dysfunction, fluid retention, and hyperbilirubinemia may benefit constrictive pericarditis patients after pericardiectomy.

Background: Fluid resuscitation during Off-Pump Coronary Surgery (OPCABG) is still not protocolized and depends on multiple variables. We are exploring in this study whether a restrictive or euvolemic approach has any impact on short term surgical outcomes following OPCABG. Methods: It is a retrospective study of 300 patients analyzed based on the intraoperative fluid requirement with 150 patients in each group (Group I: Fluid 2 Litres). Results: Multivariable analysis showed echocardiography variables such as E/e ratio, LA volume index, and atrial fibrillation (AF). LA volume index is related to the higher fluid requirement. Group II had significantly higher ventilation time (P < 0.05), drain output (P = 0.05), drain removal time (

Objective : Our primary objective study was to evaluate the association between near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and low cardiac output (LCO) in patients with single-ventricle physiology after stage 1 palliation. Methods : In this retrospective study, infants ≤6 months of age with single-ventricle physiology who underwent stage 1 palliation were included. Cerebral and renal NIRS values at various time intervals after surgery were compared between patients with low and normal cardiac output. LCO within the first 48 after surgery was defined as per the pediatric cardiac critical care consortium database. NIRS values were also compared with other adverse outcomes such as cardiac arrest, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mortality. The receiver operative characteristic curve was generated to determine an optimal cut-off NIRS value for detecting LCO. Results : Ninety-one patients with median (Interquartile range) age of 10 days (6–26) and weight of 3.3 kg (3–3.5) were included in the study. Cerebral NIRS at 1 h (41.2 vs. 49.5; P = 0.002), 6 h (44 vs. 52.2; P = 0.001), and 12 h (51.8 vs. 56; P = 0.025) was significantly lower in the grouP with LCO compared to no LCO. Cerebral NIRS at 6 h was independently associated with LCO (P = 0.018), and cerebral NIRS at 6 h ≤57% had 91% sensitivity and 72% specificity to detect LCO. Conclusions : Cerebral NIRS ≤57% at 6 h after surgery detected LCO after stage 1 palliation in single-ventricle patients. Cerebral or renal NIRS was not associated with adverse outcomes and therefore, may not be useful in predicting adverse outcomes in this population.

Introduction: Among the different complications that arise in the immediate postoperative period, the low cardiac output presents higher associated morbidity and mortality, with an incidence of up to 45.0 %. Objective: To determine the factors related to the postoperative emergence of the low cardiac output in patients with cardiovascular surgical treatment and extracorporeal circulation, according to demographic, clinical and echocardiographic variables. Methods: An analytic, cases and controls investigation was carried out, which included patients that received heart surgical treatment in the Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery Service of Saturnino Lora Teaching Clinical Surgical Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, from January to December, 2019. Each study group was conformed by 43 members, for which was considered the presence (cases) or not (controls) of the low cardiac output syndrome. Results: In the series there was a prevalence of the patients under 65 years in both study groups (51.2 and 73.5 % for cases and controls, respectively), as well as themale sex (60.9 %); in a same way, the emergency surgical intervention was the most frequent (80.2 %). The atrial fibrillation and the systolic function of the right ventricle presented high statistical significance (p <0.05). Conclusions: Some clinical and echocardiographic elements (age, atrial fibrillation, systolic function of the left and right ventricles, as well as emergency surgical intervention) were associated in an independent way with the emergence of the low cardiac output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: pathophysiological changes such as low cardiac output (LCO) impact pharmacokinetics, but its extent may be different throughout pediatrics compared to adults. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling enables further exploration. Methods: A validated propofol model was used to simulate the impact of LCO on propofol clearance across age groups using the PBPK platform, Simcyp® (version 19). The hepatic and renal extraction ratio of propofol was then determined in all age groups. Subsequently, manual infusion dose explorations were conducted under LCO conditions, targeting a 3 µg/mL (80–125%) propofol concentration range. Results: Both hepatic and renal extraction ratios increased from neonates, infants, children to adolescents and adults. The relative change in clearance following CO reductions increased with age, with the least impact of LCO in neonates. The predicted concentration remained within the 3 µg/mL (80–125%) range under normal CO and LCO (up to 30%) conditions in all age groups. When CO was reduced by 40–50%, a dose reduction of 15% is warranted in neonates, infants and children, and 25% in adolescents and adults. Conclusions: PBPK-driven, the impact of reduced CO on propofol clearance is predicted to be age-dependent, and proportionally greater in adults. Consequently, age group-specific dose reductions for propofol are required in LCO conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low cardiac output is the main cause of perioperative death after pericardiectomy for constrictive pericarditis. We investigated the associated risk factors and consequences. Methods: We selected constrictive pericarditis patients undergoing isolated pericardiectomy from January 2013 to January 2021. Postoperative low cardiac output was defined as requiring mechanical circulatory support or more than one inotrope to maintain a cardiac index > 2.2 L •min−1 •m−2 without hypoperfusion, despite adequate filling status. Uni- and multivariable analysis were used to identify factors associated with low cardiac output. Cox regression was used to identify factors associated with length of hospital stay. Results: Among 212 patients with complete data, 55 (25.9%) developed low cardiac output within postoperative day 1 (quartiles 1 and 2), which caused seven of the nine perioperative deaths. The rates of atrial arrhythmia, renal dysfunction, hypoalbuminemia, modest-to-severe hyponatremia, and hyperbilirubinemia caused by constrictive pericarditis were 9.4%, 12.3%, 49.1%, 10.4%, and 81.6%. The mean preoperative central venous pressure and cardiac index were 18 ± 5 cmH2O and 1.87 ± 0.45 L•min−1•m−2. Univariable analysis showed that low cardiac output patients had higher rates of atrial arrhythmia (OR 3.32 [1.35, 8.17], P = 0.007), renal dysfunction (OR 4.24 [1.94, 9.25], P < 0.001), hypoalbuminemia (OR 1.99 [1.06, 3.73], P = 0.031) and hyponatremia (OR 6.36 [2.50, 16.20], P < 0.001), greater E peak velocity variation (difference 2.8 [0.7, 5.0], P = 0.011), higher central venous pressure (difference 3 [2,5] cmH2O, P < 0.001) and lower cardiac index (difference − 0.27 [− 0.41, − 0.14] L•min−1•m−2, P < 0.001) than patients without low cardiac output. Multivariable regression showed that atrial arrhythmia (OR 4.04 [1.36, 12.02], P = 0.012), renal dysfunction (OR 2.64 [1.07, 6.50], P = 0.035), hyponatremia (OR 3.49 [1.19, 10.24], P = 0.023), high central venous pressure (OR 1.17 [1.08, 1.27], P < 0.001), and low cardiac index (OR 0.36 [0.14, 0.92], P = 0.032) were associated with low cardiac output (AUC 0.79 [0.72–0.86], P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that hyperbilirubinemia (HR 0.66 [0.46, 0.94], P = 0.022), renal dysfunction (HR 0.51 [0.33, 0.77], P = 0.002), and low cardiac output (HR 0.42 [0.29, 0.59], P < 0.001) were associated with length of hospital stay. Conclusions: Early recognition and management of hyponatremia, renal dysfunction, fluid retention, and hyperbilirubinemia may benefit constrictive pericarditis patients after pericardiectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon in postoperative cardiac surgical patients. The fungal IE accounts for 1.3'–6.8' of all IE cases and is considered the most severe form with a mortality rate as high as 45'–50'. There are various predisposing factors for fungal IE which include congenital heart defects, cardiac interventions like pacemaker insertion, degenerative valvular heart diseases, long-term use of broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy, and long-term use of central venous. Mortality can reach up to 100' without specific treatment. Definitive therapy necessitates surgical debridement of vegetations/mass/abscess followed by long-term treatment with antifungal agents in patients who have symptoms of heart failure despite optimum medical management. We, hereby, report a case of fungal IE which occurred after the closure of a ventricular septal defect and was treated successfully with liposomal amphotericin B.

Objective : Our primary objective study was to evaluate the association between near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and low cardiac output (LCO) in patients with single-ventricle physiology after stage 1 palliation. Methods : In this retrospective study, infants ≤6 months of age with single-ventricle physiology who underwent stage 1 palliation were included. Cerebral and renal NIRS values at various time intervals after surgery were compared between patients with low and normal cardiac output. LCO within the first 48 after surgery was defined as per the pediatric cardiac critical care consortium database. NIRS values were also compared with other adverse outcomes such as cardiac arrest, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mortality. The receiver operative characteristic curve was generated to determine an optimal cut-off NIRS value for detecting LCO. Results : Ninety-one patients with median (Interquartile range) age of 10 days (6–26) and weight of 3.3 kg (3–3.5) were included in the study. Cerebral NIRS at 1 h (41.2 vs. 49.5; P = 0.002), 6 h (44 vs. 52.2; P = 0.001), and 12 h (51.8 vs. 56; P = 0.025) was significantly lower in the grouP with LCO compared to no LCO. Cerebral NIRS at 6 h was independently associated with LCO (P = 0.018), and cerebral NIRS at 6 h ≤57% had 91% sensitivity and 72% specificity to detect LCO. Conclusions : Cerebral NIRS ≤57% at 6 h after surgery detected LCO after stage 1 palliation in single-ventricle patients. Cerebral or renal NIRS was not associated with adverse outcomes and therefore, may not be useful in predicting adverse outcomes in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of oral triiodothyronine on time to extubation for infants less than 5 months undergoing heart surgery in Indonesia, and primarily relates to patients in emerging programs with high malnutrition and mortality. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, oral triiodothyronine (T3, Tetronine®) 1 μg/kg-body weight/dose or placebo (saccharum lactis) was administered via nasogastric tube every 6 h for 60 h to treatment group. A total of 120 patients were randomized into T3 (61 patients) and placebo (59 patients) groups. The majority of the patients had moderate to severe malnutrition (55.83%) with a high post-operative mortality rate of 23.3%. The T3 group showed significantly higher serum FT3 levels from 1 until 48 h post cross-clamp removal (p < 0.0001), lower incidence of low cardiac output syndrome at both 6 h (28 [45.9%] vs. 39 [66.1%] patients, p = 0.03, OR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.10–4.81) and 12 h after cross-clamp removal (25 [41.7%] vs. 36 [63.2%], p = 0.02, OR 2.40, 95% CI: 1.14–5.05). Although not statistically significant, the treatment group had shorter median (IQR) intubation time (2.59 [1.25–5.24] vs. 3.77 [1.28–6.64] days, p = 0.16, HR 1.36, 95% CI: 0.88–2.09)] and lower mortality (10 [16.4%] vs. 18 [30.5%], p = 0.07]. Patients with Aristotle score < 10.0 (low risk) receiving T3 had faster extubation than placebo patients (p = 0.021, HR of 1.90, 95% CI: 1.10–3.28) and were significantly less likely to require CPR or experience infection (p = 0.027, OR 8.56, 95% CI:0.99–73.9 and p = 0.022, OR 4.09 95% CI: 1.16–14.4, respectively). Oral T3 supplementation reduced overall incidence of low cardiac output syndrome and significantly reduced the time to extubation in low-risk patients. Therefore, prophylactic oral T3 administration may be beneficial in these patients. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02222532. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Patients with moderate-severe systolic dysfunction undergoing coronary artery bypass graft have a higher incidence of postoperative low cardiac output. Preconditioning with levosimendan may be a useful strategy to prevent this complication. In this context, design cost-effective strategies like preconditioning with levosimendan may become necessary. Methods In a sequential assignment of patients with Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction less than 40%, two strategies were compared in terms of cost-effectiveness: standard care (n = 41) versus preconditioning with Levosimendan (n = 13). The adverse effects studied included: postoperative new-onset atrial fibrillation, low cardiac output, renal failure and prolonged mechanical ventilation. The costs were evaluated using deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations were performed. Results Preconditioning with levosimendan in moderate to severe systolic dysfunction (Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction

Background: Fluid resuscitation during Off-Pump Coronary Surgery (OPCABG) is still not protocolized and depends on multiple variables. We are exploring in this study whether a restrictive or euvolemic approach has any impact on short term surgical outcomes following OPCABG.Methods: It is a retrospective study of 300 patients analyzed based on the intraoperative fluid requirement with 150 patients in each group (Group I: Fluid <2 Litres, Group II: Fluid >2 Litres).Results: Multivariable analysis showed echocardiography variables such as E/e ratio, LA volume index, and atrial fibrillation (AF). LA volume index is related to the higher fluid requirement. Group II had significantly higher ventilation time (P < 0.05), drain output (P = 0.05), drain removal time (<0.05), inotropic requirement, and diuretic use.Conclusion: The requirement of the intraoperative fluid was associated with various factors including diastolic dysfunction (left atrial volume index, left ventricle mass index, E/e ratio) and preoperative dual antiplatelet use. Group II patients had longer ventilation time, diuretics use, high drain output, and required drains for a longer period of time. Although there was no statistical difference among two groups as far as postoperative AF concerned, a reversal of AF to sinus rhythm was delayed in group II patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with the exacerbation of heart failure (HF). Although AF ablation has become an established treatment for patients with HF, it is usually an elective procedure. Here, we present a case of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) exacerbated by refractory AF, which was successfully treated with emergent AF ablation. Case summary A 53-year-old, obese man with a history of myocardial infarction presented to our hospital. Heart function deteriorated with an ejection fraction of 9.8%, and he was repeatedly hospitalized due to worsening HF. This time, the patient was emergently admitted due to ADHF associated with persistent AF. Atrial fibrillation was refractory to electrical cardioversion. Despite optimized medical support, the patient developed haemodynamic collapse and multiple organ failure. Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and mechanical ventilation were initiated in addition to intravenous catecholamines. Emergent AF ablation was performed. Following pulmonary vein isolation, sinus rhythm was restored and the patient's haemodynamic status dramatically improved. The IABP and mechanical ventilation were withdrawn within a few days, and the catecholamine dose was reduced. After cardiac rehabilitation, the patient was discharged. Discussion Our case suggests that an emergent AF ablation is feasible and effective even in a patient with severe ADHF. An emergent AF ablation could be a therapeutic option to treat a critically unwell patient who has deteriorated due to a vicious cycle of AF and HF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Some studies have been performed to assess the effects of levosimendan on cardiac function when administered to cardiac surgery patients with low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) in the immediate postoperative period. Levosimendan is an inotropic agent for the treatment of low cardiac output syndrome that seems to have a protective effect on renal function. Methods It is a quasi-experimental study. A total of 100 patients with LCOS received either beta-agonists or levosimendan. We assessed the incidence of postoperative kidney failure in cardiac surgery patients. In patients who had kidney failure at diagnosis of LCOS, we examined whether differences existed in the evolution of kidney failure based on the treatment administered for LCOS. The parameters measured included haemodynamics, oxygen supply, and renal function as assessed by the AKI scale. ANOVA, Student’s t-test and Wilcoxon or Friedman tests were used. Results Up to 30% of cardiac surgery patients had kidney failure at diagnosis of LCOS. Kidney failure at discharge from the ICU was more frequent in patients who received beta-agonist drugs as compared to those who received levosimendan (p

Objectives: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) may be cannulated using either central (cannulation of aorta) or peripheral (cannulation of femoral or axillary artery) access. The ideal cannulation approach for postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) is still unknown. The aim of this study is to compare the outcome of patients with PCS who were supported with central vs. peripheral cannulation.Methods: This is a single-center retrospective data analysis including all VA-ECMO implantations for PCS from January 2011 to December 2017. The central and peripheral approaches were compared in terms of patient characteristics, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospitalization length, adverse event rates, and overall survival.Results: Eighty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight patients (33%) were cannulated using the central approach, and 58 patients (67%) were cannulated using the peripheral approach. Forty-three patients (50%) received VA-ECMO in the operating room and 43 patients (50%) received VA-ECMO in the ICU. Central VA-ECMO group had higher EuroSCORE II (p = 0.007), longer cross-clamp time (p = 0.054), higher rate of open chest after the procedure (p < 0.001), and higher mortality rate (p = 0.02). After propensity score matching, 20 patients in each group were reanalyzed. In the matched groups, no statistically significant differences were observed in the baseline characteristics between the two groups except for a higher rate of open chests in the central ECMO group (p = 0.02). However, no significant differences were observed in the outcome and complications between the groups.Conclusions: This study showed that in postcardiotomy patients requiring VA-ECMO support, similar complication rates and outcome were observed regardless of the cannulation strategy.

Background: Levosimendan is a calcium-sensitizing ionodilator. However, the current level of clinical evidence is insufficient to determine the clinical value of levosimendan in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction subjected to cardiac surgery. The aim of this meta-analysis to provide an update of the current clinical evidence regarding the clinical value of perioperative levosimendan use in adult patients with severe cardiac dysfunction subjected to cardiac surgery. Methods: This metaanalysis was performed according to PRISMA statement. Databases searched included Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane databases for systematic reviews. Search keywords were extracted from initially retrieved articles and comprised "levosimendan" and "cardiac surgery" using the Boolean search operator AND. The reported outcomes included early mortality, development of atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury and/or renal replacement therapy, postoperative myocardial infarction, hypotension and low cardiac output syndrome. Aim of the work: The aim of this meta-analysis to provide an update of the current clinical evidence regarding the clinical value of perioperative levosimendan use in adult patients with severe cardiac dysfunction subjected to cardiac surgery. Results: The present meta-analysis showed significant association between levosimendan use and significant reduction of perioperative low cardiac output syndrome [OR (95% CI): 0.60 (0.44-0.82), p=0.001], renal injury and/or renal replacement therapy [OR (95% CI): 0.51 (0.30-0.86), p=0.01]. Also, levosimendan use was associated with a marginal trend towards lower mortality [OR (95% CI): 0.64 (0.39-1.03), p=0.07]. Conclusions: Levosimendan use is associated with reduction of perioperative low cardiac output syndrome and renal injury and/or renal replacement therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Weaning failure from cardiopulmonary bypass, postoperative low cardiac output (LCO), and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are common scenarios preceding extracorporeal life support (ECLS) implantation after cardiac surgery. The impact of these scenarios on short- and long-term outcome are not well described. Methods Between March 2006 and December 2018, 261 patients received ECLS support after cardiac surgery. Data of patients with weaning failure (NW), postoperative LCO, and CPR leading to ECLS implantation were retrospectively analyzed regarding outcome. Risk factors for outcome after postcardiotomy ECLS were assessed by uni- or multivariate regression analysis. Results Median duration of extracorporeal support was 5.5 ± 8.5 days. Overall mortality on ECLS was 39.1%. Scenario analysis revealed weaning failure from cardiopulmonary bypass in 40.6%, postoperative LCO in 24.5%, and postoperative CPR in 34.9% leading to initiation of ECLS. Most common cause of death was refractory LCO (25.3%). Overall follow-up survival was 23.7%. Survival after weaning and during follow-up in all subgroups was 9.2% (CPR), 5.0% (LCO), and 9.6% (NW), respectively. Uni- or multivariate regression analysis revealed age, aortic surgery, and vasopressor medication level on day 1 as risk for death on support, as well as postoperative renal failure, and body mass index (BMI) as risk factors for death during follow-up. Conclusion Mortality after postcardiotomy ECLS is high. Overall, outcome after CPR, NW, weaning failure and LCO is comparable. Postoperative resuscitation does not negatively affect outcome after postcardiotomy ECLS. Neurological status of ECLS survivors is good. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundLow-cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) after cardiac surgery secondary to systemic hypoperfusion is associated with a higher incidence of renal and neurological damage. A range of effective therapies are available for LCOS. The beneficial systemic effects of levosimendan persist even after cardiac output is restored, which suggests an independent cardioprotective effect.MethodsA double-blind clinical trial was conducted in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of LCOS randomized into two treatment groups (levosimendan vs. dobutamine). Monitoring of hemodynamic (cardiac index, systolic volume index, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure, central venous saturation); biochemical (e.g. creatinine, S100B protein, NT-proBNP, troponin I); and renal parameters was performed using acute kidney injury scale (AKI scale) and renal and brain ultrasound measurements [vascular resistance index (VRI)] at diagnosis and during the first 48 h.ResultsSignificant differences were observed between groups in terms of cardiac index, systolic volume index, NT-proBNP, and kidney injury stage at diagnosis. In the levosimendan group, there were significant variations in AKI stage after 24 and 48 h. No significant differences were observed in the other parameters studied.ConclusionLevosimendan showed a beneficial effect on renal function in LCOS patients after cardiac surgery that was independent from cardiac output and vascular tone. This effect is probably achieved by pharmacological postconditioning.Clinical Trial RegistrationEUDRA CT, identifier 2014-001461-27. https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=2014-001461-27

Fungal infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon in postoperative cardiac surgical patients. The fungal IE accounts for 1.3'-6.8' of all IE cases and is considered the most severe form with a mortality rate as high as 45'-50'. There are various predisposing factors for fungal IE which include congenital heart defects, cardiac interventions like pacemaker insertion, degenerative valvular heart diseases, long-term use of broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy, and long-term use of central venous. Mortality can reach up to 100' without specific treatment. Definitive therapy necessitates surgical debridement of vegetations/mass/abscess followed by long-term treatment with antifungal agents in patients who have symptoms of heart failure despite optimum medical management. We, hereby, report a case of fungal IE which occurred after the closure of a ventricular septal defect and was treated successfully with liposomal amphotericin B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To detect the early outcome of total correction of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) in adult patients of age 16 years or above. Study Design: Retrospective descriptive case series. Setting: Paediatric cardiac surgery department of Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, Faisalabad. Period: October 2016 to June 2019. Material & Methods: All consecutive patients of age 16 years or above who underwent total correction for TOF during study period were included. Surgical procedure and early outcome measures were recorded and analyzed. Results: Sixty nine patients underwent total correction for TOF during the study period. Majority of patients (n=55, 79.7%) were between16 to 25years of age. Male dominated the study population (56.5%, n=39) with male to female ratio 1.3: 1. Nine patients (13%) had coiling of MAPCA before surgery while prior palliation with Blalock Taussig shunt (BT Shunt) was noted in 5.8 % patients (n=4). All patients were operated with trans-atrial trans-pulmonary approach (n=69, 100%). Pulmonary artery was augmented with pericardial patch in 22 cases (32%) while left pulmonary artery (LPA) augmentation was done in two patients. Pulmonary valve annulus divided in 22 % of patients (n=15), RVOT was reconstructed with trans-annular pericardial patch in 10.1% patients (n=7) while Pulmonary valve was replaced with tissue valve in 7 patients (10.1%). In one patient RV to PA continuity was established with contegra. Post operatively inotropic support was given for initial 39 ±45 hours, mean ICU stay was 39±75 hours, mean chest drainage 1086±741 ml and mean requirement for blood transfusion was 2.2 ±2.4 units. As regard early complications, six patients had tiny to small residual VSD (8.7%) while no patient developed complete heart block. Two patients had neurological complications (2.9%), one patient developed renal failure (1.45%) while chest reopening was done in two patients due to postoperative bleeding and/or tamponade (2.9%). There was death of two patients (2.9%), one had renal failure due to low cardiac output (LCOS) and other had stroke. Conclusion: The early outcome of complete repair of TOF in patients 16 years and above is good with a low mortality and limited number of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low-cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) after cardiac surgery secondary to systemic hypoperfusion is associated with a higher incidence of renal and neurological damage. A range of effective therapies are available for LCOS. The beneficial systemic effects of levosimendan persist even after cardiac output is restored, which suggests an independent cardioprotective effect. Methods: A double-blind clinical trial was conducted in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of LCOS randomized into two treatment groups (levosimendan vs. dobutamine). Monitoring of hemodynamic (cardiac index, systolic volume index, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure, central venous saturation); biochemical (e.g. creatinine, S100B protein, NT-proBNP, troponin I); and renal parameters was performed using acute kidney injury scale (AKI scale) and renal and brain ultrasound measurements [vascular resistance index (VRI)] at diagnosis and during the first 48 h. Results: Significant differences were observed between groups in terms of cardiac index, systolic volume index, NT-proBNP, and kidney injury stage at diagnosis. In the levosimendan group, there were significant variations in AKI stage after 24 and 48 h. No significant differences were observed in the other parameters studied. Conclusion: Levosimendan showed a beneficial effect on renal function in LCOS patients after cardiac surgery that was independent from cardiac output and vascular tone. This effect is probably achieved by pharmacological postconditioning. Clinical Trial Registration: EUDRA CT, identifier 2014-001461-27. https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=2014-001461-27 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with moderate-severe systolic dysfunction undergoing coronary artery bypass graft have a higher incidence of postoperative low cardiac output. Preconditioning with levosimendan may be a useful strategy to prevent this complication. In this context, design cost-effective strategies like preconditioning with levosimendan may become necessary.Methods: In a sequential assignment of patients with Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction less than 40%, two strategies were compared in terms of cost-effectiveness: standard care (n = 41) versus preconditioning with Levosimendan (n = 13). The adverse effects studied included: postoperative new-onset atrial fibrillation, low cardiac output, renal failure and prolonged mechanical ventilation. The costs were evaluated using deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations were performed.Results: Preconditioning with levosimendan in moderate to severe systolic dysfunction (Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction < 40%), was associated with a lower incidence of postoperative low cardiac output in elective coronary artery bypass graft surgery 2(15.4%) vs 25(61%) (P < 0.01) and lesser intensive care unit length of stay 2(1-4) vs 4(3-6) days (P = 0.03). Average cost on levosimendan group was 14,792€ while the average cost per patient without levosimendan was 17,007€. Patients with no complications represented 53.8% of the total in the levosimendan arm, as compared to 31.7% in the non-levosimendan arm. In all Montecarlo simulations for sensitivity analysis, use of levosimendan was less expensive and more effective.Conclusions: Preconditioning with levosimendan, is a cost-effective strategy preventing postoperative low cardiac output in patients with moderate-severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction undergoing elective coronary artery bypass graft surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac output, described as the amount of blood pumped by heart in a minute, is one of the most important hemodynamic parameters for the assesment of cardiac performance. Preserving hemodynamic stability and sufficient cardiac performance may not always be easy after open cardiac surgeries. Low cardiac output (LCO) is one of the complications that can be observed after cardiac surgery and increase the risk of morbidity and mortality by causing serious hemodynamic alterations in the early and late postoperative period. In this review article , we aimed to review the significance and the management of low cardiac output in the light of current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]