Fibroelastoma, uma Doença Incidentaloma? - Imagem de Casos de Fibroelastomas como Achados Incidentais em Quatro Pacientes, Quatro Valvas Diferentes / Fibroelastoma, an Incidentaloma Disease? - Image Cases of Fibroelastomas as Incidental Findings in Four Patients, Four Different Valves

Resumo Os fibroelastomas são o segundo tumor cardíaco benigno mais comum. São estruturas pequenas, avasculares, com uma dimensão média de 9mm, podendo atingir até 70mm, habitualmente aderentes à superfície das válvulas cardíacas (válvulas aórtica e mitral são as mais comumente afetadas, seguidas das válvulas tricúspide e pulmonar). A etiologia não é clara, sendo a hipótese de formação de microtrombos nas margens de coaptação das válvulas a mais aceite. Na ecocardiografia apresentam aspeto pediculado, móvel, com superfície filamentosa, tipicamente com uma aparência pontilhada nas margens e ecolucente. Do ponto de vista clínico, podem estar associados a fenómenos embólicos, no entanto, na maioria dos casos o diagnóstico é incidental. Apresentamos de seguida quatro casos de diagnóstico incidental de fibroelastomas nas quatro válvulas cardíacas, diagnosticados por ecocardiograma transtorácico (ETT) (Vídeo 1; Figura 1). Vídeo 1 Da esquerda para a direita, de cima para baixo: fibroelastomas no folheto anterior da válvula tricúspide, folheto anterior da válvula mitral, cúspide esquerda da válvula pulmonar e cúspide esquerda da válvula aórtica, cada um correspondendo a um doente diferente. Em: http://abccardiol.org/supplementary-material/2024/12102/2023-0222_IM_video01.mp4 Figura 1 Da esquerda para a direita, de cima para baixo: fibroelastomas no folheto anterior da válvula tricúspide, folheto anterior da válvula mitral, cúspide esquerda da válvula pulmonar e cúspide esquerda da válvula aórtica, cada um correspondendo a um doente diferente.

Abstract Fibroelastomas are the second most common benign cardiac tumor1. They are small avascular structures with a mean size of 9mm, ranging up to 70mm, usually attached to the heart valves' surface (aortic and mitral are the most affected, followed by tricuspid and pulmonary valves). Their etiology is unclear, but the hypothesis of coalescence of microthrombus at the coaptation margins of valves is the most widely accepted theory. On echocardiography, they are pedicled, mobile, with a filamentous surface, and usually have a speckled appearance with echolucencies and a stippled pattern near the edges. Clinically, they may be associated with embolic phenomena; however, in most cases, the diagnosis is incidental. We present a series of four clinical cases with an incidental diagnosis of fibroelastomas across the four cardiac valves as assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (Video 1; Figure 1). Video 1 From left to right and top to bottom: fibroelastomas of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, anterior leaflet of the mitral valve, left cusp of the pulmonary valve and left cuspid of the aortic valve, each corresponding to a different patient. Link: http://abccardiol.org/supplementary-material/2024/12102/2023-0222_IM_video01.mp4 Figure 1 From left to right and top to bottom: fibroelastomas of the anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve, anterior leaflet of the mitral valve, left cusp of the pulmonary valve and left cuspid of the aortic valve, each corresponding to a different patient.

Impacto de un Heart Team en pacientes con estenosis aórtica candidatos a reemplazo percutáneo / Impact of a Heart Team in patients with aortic stenosis who are candidates for transcatheter aortic valve replacement

RESUMEN La difusión del reemplazo valvular aórtico percutáneo (TAVI) en la estenosis aórtica (EAo) generó la creación de un Heart Team (HT), para elegir el mejor tratamiento. Existen pocos reportes sobre su utilidad. Objetivos: analizar los resultados del tratamiento de los pacientes con EAo evaluados por un HT durante 10 años Material y métodos: Inclusión consecutiva de todos los pacientes con EAo candidatos a TAVI entre enero del 2012 y julio del 2021 para seleccionar el mejor tratamiento, incluyendo además Cirugía de reemplazo valvular aórtico (CRVA) y Tratamiento médico conservador (TMC). Resultados: De 841 pacientes, se asignaron a TAVI 455 (53%), CRVA 213 (24%) y TMC 183 (23%). El porcentaje asignado a TAVI aumentó con el tiempo de 48 a 62% (p < 0,05). Los pacientes que fueron a TAVI, con respecto a los enviados a CRVA, eran mayores (86 ± 7 vs 83 ± 7 años), con mayor EUROSCORE II (6,2, IC95% 5,7-6,6 vs 5,6, IC95% 4,4-6,5) y más frágiles (1,62 ± 1 vs 0,91 ± 1), en todos los casos p <0,01. La sobrevida actuarial (IC 95%) a 1 y a 2 años fue, para TAVI 88% (84-91%) y 82% (77-86%), para CRVA 83% (76-88%) y 78% (70-84%) y para TMC 70% (60-87%) y 59% (48-68%) respectivamente (p <0,001). Conclusiones: Durante los primeros 10 años de establecido un Heart Team para la toma de decisiones en EAo, se asignaron a TAVI aproximadamente la mitad y el resto se asignó por mitades a cirugía u observación. La sobrevida de los pacientes intervenidos fue similar a 2 años y mayor que la de los no intervenidos.

ABSTRACT As transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for aortic stenosis (AS) became widespread, the need for a Heart Team (HT) arose to choose the best treatment. There are few reports regarding its usefulness. Objectives: To analyze treatment outcomes in patients with AS evaluated by a HT for 10 years. Methods: Consecutive enrollment of all patients with AS who were candidates for TAVI between January 2012 and July 2021 to choose the best treatment, including surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and conservative medical management (CMM). Results: Out of 841 patients, 455 were assigned to TAVI (53%), 213 to SAVR (24%), and 183 to CMM (23%). The percentage assigned to TAVI has increased from 48% to 62% over time (p <0.05). Patients who underwent TAVI versus those who underwent SAVR were older (86 ± 7 vs. 83 ± 7 years), had a higher EUROSCORE II (6.2, 95% CI 5.7-6.6 vs. 5.6; 95% CI 4.4-6.5) and were frailer (1.62 ± 1 vs. 0.91 ± 1), in all cases p <0.01. Actuarial survival (95% CI) at 1 and 2 years was 88% (84-91%) and 82% (77-86%) for TAVI, 83% (76-88%) and 78% (70-84%) for SAVR, and 70% (60-87%) and 59% (48-68%) for CMM, respectively (p <0.001). Conclusions: For the first 10 years after a Heart Team was established for AS decision-making, approximately half of the patients were assigned to TAVI, and the rest were equally assigned in halves to either surgery or observation. Survival for patients who received interventions was similar at 2 years and higher than in those who did not.

Health-related quality of life of patients submitted to correction of heart valve diseases / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de pacientes submetidos à correção de valvopatias

INTRODUCTION: The measurement of the health-related quality of life construct can reveal the positive repercussions on the lives of patients undergoing corrective valve procedures, as well as revealing points that prevent new surgical approaches. OBJECTIVE: To identify the health-related quality of life of valvular heart disease in the perioperative period of conventional valve surgery. METHODS: This is an integrative literature review. Searches were performed independently in four databases using controlled and uncontrolled descriptors. Eligibility criteria were: original articles that addressed the assessment of the health-related quality of life of valvular patients undergoing valve repair and/or valve prosthesis implantation; in Portuguese, English, and Spanish; with a time frame for convenience between 2015 and 2019. RESULTS: 14 studies comprised the final review sample, despite being studies conducted in different countries and with different designs, it was possible to verify the improvement in health-related quality of life when evaluated through generic instruments in valvular patients after valve surgery. However, in studies in which the assessment of the construct occurred through specific instruments, the existence of factors that can interfere with the quality of life of patients undergoing valve implantation was revealed. CONCLUSION: It was noticed that there was generally an improvement in health-related quality of life after the surgical intervention.

INTRODUÇÃO: A mensuração do constructo qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde pode revelar as repercussões positivas na vida dos pacientes submetidos a procedimentos valvares corretivos, bem como revelar pontos que para prevenção de novas abordagens cirúrgica. OBJETIVO: Identificar a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de valvopatas no perioperatório de intervenção cirúrgica valvar convencional. MÉTODO: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. As buscas foram realizadas de forma independente, em quatro bases de dados por meio de descritores controlados e não controlados. Os critérios de elegibilidade foram: artigos originais que abordassem a avaliação da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de valvopatas submetidos à plastia valvar e/ou implante de prótese valvar; nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol; com recorte temporal por conveniência entre 2015 e 2019. RESULTADOS: 14 estudos compuseram a amostra final da revisão, apesar de serem estudos realizados em distintos países e com diferentes delineamentos foi possível verificar a melhora da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde quando avaliada por meio de instrumentos genéricos em valvopatas após a intervenção cirúrgica valvar. Todavia, nos estudos em que a avaliação do constructo ocorreu por meio de instrumentos específicos, foi revelada a existência de fatores que podem interferir na qualidade de vida dos pacientes submetidos aos implantes valvares. CONCLUSÃO: Percebeu-se que geralmente houve melhora da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde após a intervenção cirúrgica.

The clinical effect of a combined technical system for bicuspid aortic valves repair / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To summarize the clinical result of a combined technical system for bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) repair. Methods    Patients who diagnosed as BAV and sever aortic regurgitation (AR) underwent a strategy of combined repair technics including annuloplasty, sinus plasty, leaflet plasty, sinus-tubular junction (STJ) plasty depending on anatomy pathological characteristics between October 2019 and January 2021 were enrolled. The clinical data of the patients were analyzed. Results    A total of 17 patients were enrolled. There were 11 males and 6 females with an average age of 18-49 (32.4±13.6) years. Fifteen patients had typeⅠand 2 patients had typeⅡBAV according to Sievers classification. Annuloplasty was applicated in 13 patients, sinus plasty in 8 patients, leaflet plasty in 17 patients, and STJ plasty in 11 patients, respectively. The cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was 95 (84, 135) min, aortic cross-clamping time was 68 (57, 112) min, and the ICU stay time was 17 (12, 25) h. After the operation, mild AR was presented in 14 patients, moderate AR in 1 patient and severe AR in 2 patients. The latter 3 patients underwent second operation under CPB, after then, 1 patient had mild AR and 2 patients had moderate AR. The follow-up time was 13.1±4.6 months. At the latest follow-up, 12 patients had mild AR and 5 patients had moderate AR, and no patient had reoperation. Conclusion    A combined technical system for BAV repair can be used effectively and safely with an acceptable short and middle-term result.

Preliminary analysis of subclinical leaflet thrombosis after percutaneous aortic valve replacement with balloon dilation / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To analyze the factors influencing the occurrence of subclinical leaflet thrombosis (SLT) after percutaneous aortic valve replacement using balloon-expandable valve (Sapien3, S3). Methods     Retrospective analysis was made on 62 patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing percutaneous aortic valve replacement using S3 in our center from September 2020 to June 2022. Patients with a history of vascular atherosclerosis or with significant increase or insignificant decrease of aortic valve flow or gradient pressure during follow-up were selected for CT examination. Results     A total of 26 patients were finally included, with an average age of 70.31±8.90 years, and the male proportion was higher (n=15, 57.69%). Among them, 5 patients had SLT. Compared with the non-SLT group, patients in the SLT group were older (68.52±8.80 years vs. 77.80±4.66 years, P=0.007). The age factor (≥75 years) and the diameter of the ascending aorta were associated with SLT (both P<0.05). Conclusion     The incidence of SLT is higher in the elderly patients. It is speculated that SLT is related to the characteristics of short balloon dilation valves and low blood flow dynamics of valve racks.

Proposed Risk Score in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Submitted to Valve Replacement Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: Due to Brazilian population aging, prevalence of aortic stenosis, and limited number of scores in literature, it is essential to develop risk scores adapted to our reality and created in the specific context of this disease. Methods: This is an observational historical cohort study with analysis of 802 aortic stenosis patients who underwent valve replacement at Hospital São Lucas, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, from 1996 to 2018. With the aid of logistic regression, a weighted risk score was constructed based on the magnitude of the coeficients β of the logistic equation. Two performance statistics were obtained: area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and the chi-square (χ2) of Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit with Pearson's correlation coeficient between the observed events and predicted as a model calibration estimate. Results: The risk predictors that composed the score were valve replacement surgery combined with coronary artery bypass grafting, prior renal failure, New York Heart Association class III/IV heart failure, age > 70 years, and ejection fraction < 50%. The receiver operating characteristic curve area was 0.77 (95% confidence interval: 0.72-0.82); regarding the model calibration estimated between observed/predicted mortality, Hosmer-Lemeshow test χ2 = 3,70 (P=0.594) and Pearson's coeficient r = 0.98 (P<0.001). Conclusion: We propose the creation of a simple score, adapted to the Brazilian reality, with good performance and which can be validated in other institutions.

Emergências Relacionadas à Doença Valvar Cardíaca: Uma Revisão Abrangente da Abordagem Inicial no Departamento de Emergência / Valvular Heart Disease Emergencies: A Comprehensive Review Focusing on the Initial Approach in the Emergency Department

Resumo A doença valvar cardíaca é um problema de saúde crescente no mundo. Os pacientes com valvopatia podem apresentar diversas emergências cardiovasculares. O manejo desses pacientes é um desafio no departamento de emergência, principalmente quando a condição cardíaca prévia é desconhecida. Atualmente, recomendações específicas para o manejo inicial são limitadas. A presente revisão integrativa propõe uma abordagem baseada em evidência, de três etapas, desde a suspeita de valvopatia à beira do leito até o tratamento inicial das emergências. A primeira etapa é a suspeita de uma condição valvar subjacente com base nos sinais e sintomas. A segunda etapa consiste na tentativa de confirmação diagnóstica e avaliação da gravidade da valvopatia com exames complementares. Finalmente, a terceira etapa aborda as opções diagnósticas e terapêuticas para insuficiência cardíaca, fibrilação atrial, trombose valvar, febre reumática aguda, e endocardite infecciosa. Além disso, apresentamos imagens de exames complementares e tabelas para apoio aos médicos.

Abstract Valvular heart disease (VHD) is an increasing health problem worldwide. Patients with VHD may experience several cardiovascular-related emergencies. The management of these patients is a challenge in the emergency department, especially when the previous heart condition is unknown. Specific recommendations for the initial management are currently poor. This integrative review proposes an evidence-based three-step approach from bedside VHD suspicion to the initial treatment of the emergencies. The first step is the suspicion of underlying valvular condition based on signs and symptoms. The second step comprises the attempt to confirm the diagnosis and assessment of VHD severity with complementary tests. Finally, the third step addresses the diagnosis and treatment options for heart failure, atrial fibrillation, valvular thrombosis, acute rheumatic fever, and infective endocarditis. In addition, several images of complementary tests and summary tables are provided for physician support.

Diagnostic Value of D-Dimer and INR in Patients Suspected to Have Prosthetic Valve Dysfunction

ABSTRACT Introduction: Prosthetic valve dysfunction is a potentially critical complication of heart valve replacement. An easy and quickly applicable diagnostic procedure is required for recognizing the prosthetic valve dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to prospectively define the diagnostic value of D-dimer and INR level in predicting prosthetic valve dysfunction. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 70 patients suspected to have prosthetic valve dysfunction admitted to Imam Ali Hospital, affiliated with Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah Province, Iran. Cinefluoroscopy, as the gold standard diagnostic test, was used for the diagnosis of prosthetic valve dysfunction in enrolled patients. Two milliliters of blood from each patient were taken into a tube containing sodium citrate anticoagulant. To evaluate D-dimer, the cutoff value was set at 500 ng/ml. Also, to evaluate international normalized ratio (INR), the cutoff value was set at 2. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), positive likelihood ratio (PLR), and negative likelihood ratio (NLR) of the serum markers were used to describe predictive properties. Results: Of 70 patients, 27 (38.6%) were male and 43 (61.4%) were female, and the mean age was 54.67±15.11 years (range, 18 to 80 years). Of 70 patients, 27 (38.6%) had prosthetic heart valve malfunction demonstrable by fluoroscopy, and 19 patients (27.1%) had D-dimer levels >500 ng/ml. Elevated D-dimer levels (>500 ng/ml) have been indicated to have sensitivity of 70.4%, and hence an NPV of 84.3%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, NLR of 0.3, and the infinity value of PLR for predicting prosthetic valve dysfunction. There was a significant relationship between fluoroscopy and D-dimer test (P=0.001). A kappa coefficient value of 0.745 indicated a substantial agreement between D-dimer and fluoroscopy testing. Mixing test (combination of D-dimer and INR) showed to have 100% sensitivity, and hence a NPV of 69.8%, specificity of 69.8%, PPV of 51.8%, NLR of 1.41, and PLR of 1.44 for predicting prosthetic valve dysfunction. Conclusion: D-dimer with moderate sensitivity and high specificity is an ideal marker for the diagnosis of prosthetic valve dysfunction in suspected patients. Enhanced plasma D-dimer level is not by itself diagnostic of a prosthetic valve dysfunction but may alert physicians to refer the patient for more detailed examination, preferably by fluoroscopy. Mixing test with 100% sensitivity can apply as a rule-out test.

The Role of Echocardiography in the Management of Structural Valve Degeneration of Transcatheter Valves

Transcatheter valve implantation in patients with aortic stenosis has evolved as an acceptable alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement in a subset of patients at excessively high risk from surgery. The structural valve degeneration (SVD) is a known phenomenon in catheter-based valves too, which was hitherto seen with surgical bioprosthetic valves. Echocardiography plays a pivotal role not only in early detection but also in the management of SVD of Transcatheter valves. The goal of this report is to agglomerate our experience of an unusual case of SVD of a catheter-based valve implanted inside the bioprosthetic aortic and mitral valve apparatus and its management with aortic and mitral valve replacement with mechanical valve prosthesis.

Influencing factors and prognostic value of cardiac valve calcification in non-dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease / 中华肾脏病杂志

Objective:To explore the incidence, influencing factors and prognostic value of cardiac valve calcification (CVC) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) non-dialysis patients.Methods:The non-dialysis patients with CKD stage 1-5 who were hospitalized and underwent echocardiography in the Department of Nephrology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019 were retrospectively admitted. The patients were divided into CVC group and non-CVC group, and the clinical data were compared between the two groups. The deadline for follow-up was November 1, 2021, and the follow-up end point event was all-cause mortality. Logistic regression model was used to analyze the risk factors of CVC in patients with CKD, and Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to analyze the risk factors of all-cause mortality in patients with CKD.Results:A total of 563 patients with CKD were enrolled in the study, with age of (59.49±13.97) years old, and 352 males (62.52%). There were 325 patients (57.73%) with CKD stage 1-3 and 238 patients (42.27%) with CKD stage 4-5. The incidence of CVC in CKD stage 1-5 patients was 32.32%(182/563). Aortic valve calcification occurred in 30.73%(173/563), mitral valve calcification occurred in 9.77% (55/563), double valve (mitral and aortic valve) calcification occurred in 8.35% (47/563), and tricuspid valve calcification occurred in 0.18%(1/563). Age (t=12.223, P<0.001) and the proportions of CKD stage 4-5 ( χ 2=10.854, P=0.001), hypertension ( χ 2=7.811, P=0.005), diabetes ( χ 2=8.424, P=0.004), hyperlipidemia ( χ 2=9.331, P=0.002), and taking statins ( χ 2=4.868, P=0.027) in CVC group were significantly higher than those in non-CVC group. Total cholesterol (t=2.243, P=0.025), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (t=2.025, P=0.043), platelet count (t=2.230, P=0.026) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (t=8.630, P<0.001) in CVC group were lower than those in the non-CVC group. Logistic regression analysis results showed that age≥60 years old (≥60 years old/<60 years old, OR=7.412, 95% CI 4.514-12.170, P<0.001), CKD stage 4-5 (stage 4-5/stage 1-3, OR=2.791, 95% CI 1.730-4.505, P<0.001) and hyperlipidemia ( OR=5.241, 95% CI 3.283-8.367, P<0.001) were the independent influencing factors of CVC in patients with CKD. Five hundred and sixty-three patients were followed up for an average of 26 months, including 68 cases (12.08%) of death, 436 cases (77.44%) of survival and 59 cases (10.48%) of loss to follow-up. Multivariate Cox regression analysis results showed that age≥60 years old (≥60 years old/<60 years old, HR=2.157, 95% CI 1.127-4.127, P=0.020), serum albumin<30 g/L (<30 g/L/≥30 g/L, HR=1.923, 95% CI 1.037-3.568, P=0.038) and double valve calcification (double valve calcification/no valve calcification, HR=2.516, 95% CI 1.279-4.950, P=0.008) were the independent influencing factors of all-cause death in patients with CKD. Conclusions:CVC accounts for 32.32% in non-dialysis patients with CKD stage 1-5. Older age, worse renal function and hyperlipidemia are the independent risk factors of CVC in CKD patients. Older age, hypoproteinemia and double valve calcification are the independent risk factors of all-cause death in patients with CKD.

The effects of transtracheal pressure on the utility of speaking valves in critically ill patients after tracheostomy / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To analyze the effect of transtracheal pressure (TTP) on the application of a speaking valve in critically ill patients after tracheostomy.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted of 50 patients wearing a speaking valve after tracheostomy. Patients who had been wearing a speaking valve for 30min or more were the tolerance group, while those with less than 30min were the intolerance group. Transtracheal pressure was monitored during resting breathing, forced expiration and speaking. Linear regression models were evaluated to isolate the factors best predicting tolerance. The changes in respiratory muscle contraction before and after wearing a speaking valvs were evaluated using ultrasound. The patients′ satisfaction with wearing a speaking valve was also recorded.Results:TTP during speaking significantly predicted tolerance. The baseline values of diaphragmatic thickening fraction and physical functioning also positively predicted tolerance. Acute physiology and chronic health (APACHE II) score was a significant negative predictor. After wearing the speaking valve, the average contraction of the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique and transverse abdominis muscles increased significantly. Both groups expressed high satisfaction with the speaking valves.Conclusions:Transtracheal pressure during speaking can help predict the tolerance for wearing a speaking valve among critically ill patients after a tracheostomy. Baseline diaphragmatic thickening fraction, physical functioning and APACHE II score can predict the duration of speaking valve tolerance.

Clinical, laboratory, microbiological and echocardiographic characteristics of infective endocarditis in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract Objectives: infective endocarditis (IE) is a potentially fatal disease. This study analyzed the clinical, laboratory, microbiological and echocardiographic characteristics of IE in a population of patients at a tertiary care hospital in Medellín, Colombia, over a three-year period. Methods: a retrospective observational study. The patients were classified according to the modified Duke criteria. Clinical and echocardiographic data, laboratory results and cultures were gathered from the clinical charts. Factors associated with the prognosis were determined. Results: a total of 48 cases were included, 29 (60.4%) of which involved males. The mean age was 53.8±19.2 years. Fever and fatigue were the most common clinical signs. No heart murmur was reported on admission in 52.1% of the patients. Most of the patients (62.5%) had no underlying predisposing heart condition. The IE occurred in a native valve in 36 patients (75%), with the mitral valve being the most frequently affected site. Transthoracic and/or transesophageal echocardiography showed vegetations in 45 cases (93.7%); these were mostly mobile, with an average size of 17.6±11.3 mm. Staphylococcus aureus was the main causal organism (33%). The prevalence of IE with negative blood cultures was 37.5%. The most frequent complication was embolism in 21 patients (43.7%), followed by heart failure (41.7%). On multivariate analysis, septic shock, kidney failure, Staphylococcus infection and the use of immunosuppressants were predictors of higher inpatient mortality. Conclusions: most cases occur in elderly patients with no underlying predisposing heart condi tion, in a native valve, with a predilection for the mitral valve. Staphylococcus aureus is the most frequent causal organism. Several factors predict greater inpatient mortality, including the presence of septic shock, kidney failure, Staphylococcus infection and the use of immunosuppressants. (Acta Med Colomb 2021; 46. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36104/amc.2021.1930)

Imágenes en endocarditis infecciosa: no todo es ecocardiografía / Imaging in infective endocarditis: not all is ultrasonography

Resumen La endocarditis infecciosa (EI) es una enfermedad de alta mortalidad, caracterizada por una infección endocárdica y frecuentes complicaciones multiorgánicas, que requiere un diagnóstico rápido y preciso, y un manejo agresivo, ya sea médico o quirúrgico. Su diagnóstico se realiza tomando en cuenta criterios bacteriológicos, clínicos y ecocardiográficos. Es objetivo de este artículo realizar una actualización del estudio imagenológico en paciente con EI, con especial énfasis en aquellos exámenes no ecocardiográficos disponibles en nuestro medio. En los últimos años, estudios de imagen avanzados han adquirido un rol creciente en su estudio inicial, particularmente la tomografía computada multicorte (TCMC) cardiaca y el positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), y han sido recomendados como criterios diagnósticos en las guías recientes para el manejo de esta entidad. La TCMC cardiaca proporciona información anatómica detallada de las válvulas cardiacas y tejido perivalvular, identificando pseudoaneurismas, abscesos y dehiscencias valvulares. El PET/CT con F18-fluorodeoxiglucosa (F18-FDG) permite aumentar la sensibilidad en la detección de EI, y pesquisar con alta eficiencia fenómenos embólicos sistémicos, de elevada frecuencia en esta población. Ambos métodos prestan particular utilidad en EI de válvula protésica, donde la ecocardiografía presenta menor rendimiento diagnóstico. La resonancia magnética (RM) cerebral es el mejor método de imagen para descartar eventos isquémicos/embólicos del sistema nervioso central.

Abstract Infective endocarditis (IE) is an entity characterized by endocardial infection and frequent multiorgan complications, resulting in high mortality. It requires a rapid and accurate diagnosis, and a medical or surgical aggressive treatment. Currently, IE diagnosis rests on bacterial, clinical and ultrasonographic criteria. The objective of this article is to update the imaging study in patients with IE, with special emphasis on those non-echocardiographic examinations available in our environment. Last years, advanced imaging had achieved a growing role in IE diagnosis, especially cardiac multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), which have been recommended in recent clinical guidelines to be included as part of diagnostic criteria. Cardiac MSCT provides detailed anatomic information of cardiac valves and perivalve tissue, allowing identification of pseudoaneurysm, abscess and valve dehiscence. F18-FDG PET/CT increases sensitivity for IE detection and shows high accuracy in searching for extracranial systemic embolic events. Both MSCT and PET/CT have particular utility in cases of prosthetic valve endocarditis, where cardiac ultrasonography shows lower performance. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best imaging method for evaluating ischemic/embolic events of central nervous system.

Progress in the pathogenesis of congenital bicuspid aortic valves and the associated complications / 国际儿科学杂志

Congenital bicuspid aortic valves(BAV)is one of the most common congenital heart diseases.It is generally diagnosed by echocardiography when deterioration of the abnormal leaflets becomes clinically evident.Patients with BAV are at increased risks of developing serious complications, including aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, aortic dilation, aortic dissection and/or aneurysm, which seriously threatens the health of patients.Although its diagnosis and surgical treatment have been clear, the specific pathogenesis has not been completely revealed.Recently, studies have found that gene mutations and related signaling pathway abnormalities are associated with BAV and its complications.And epigenetics and environmental factors are involved in the development and progress of BAV.Understanding the underlying cellular and molecular basis of normal and pathological aortic valve development may improve the preventative and therapeutic approaches to valve degeneration.

Characteristics of infectious endocarditis patients from a town in Boyacá. A cross-sectional study / Caracterización de los pacientes con endocarditis infecciosa en población de Boyacá. Estudio transversal

Abstract Infectious endocarditis (IE) is a multisystemic disease caused by an infection, generally bacterial, of the endocardial surface. Its incidence is three to nine cases per 100,000 persons. Objective: to characterize the patients with a diagnosis of infectious endocarditis seen at the Hospital Universitario San Rafael de Tunja. Materials and methods: a descriptive observational study. Patients seen at the Hospital Uni versitario San Rafael de Tunja between January 1, 2010 and January 1, 2019. Sociodemographic, clinical, paraclinical, imaging, treatment and outcome variables were gathered. Results: a total of 87 persons with a confirmed diagnosis of infectious endocarditis were seen. The average age was 38.77 years, with an SD ± 13.32 years. Leukocytosis was seen in 90%, neutrophilia in 85%, lymphocytosis in 3%, thrombocytopenia in 4%, elevated serum CRP in 85%, transaminitis in 45%, hyponatremia in 2% and hypernatremia in 4%. All patients received antibiotic treatment; only 23% required surgery. Conclusions: this case series found similar clinical and microbiological characteristics to those reported in other national and international studies. Males were affected more often than females, with the main etiological agent being Staphylococcus aureus. Fever and infectious vasculitis signs were the main clinical manifestations, most often affecting the mitral valve.

Resumen La endocarditis infecciosa (EI) es una enfermedad multisistémica que resulta de una infección, generalmente bacteriana, de la superficie endocárdica. Su incidencia es de tres a nueve casos por cada 100 000 personas. Objetivo: realizar una caracterización de los pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San Rafael de Tunja con diagnóstico de endocarditis infecciosa. Material y métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo. Pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San Rafael de Tunja entre el 1°. de enero del 2010 a 1°. de enero del 2019. Se tomaron variables sociodemográficas, clínicas, paraclínicas, imagenológicos, terapéuticas y de desenlaces. Resultados: en total se atendieron 87 personas que presentaron diagnóstico confirmado de endocarditis infecciosa. La edad promedio fue 38.77 años con una DE ± 13.32 años. Se observó leucocitosis en 90%, neutrofilia en 85%, linfocitosis en 3%, trombocitopenia en 4%, aumento de los valores séricos de PCR en 85%, transaminitis en 45%, hiponatremia en 2% e hipernatremia en 4%. Todos los pacientes recibieron manejo antibiótico, tan solo 23% requi rieron manejo quirúrgico. Conclusiones: en esta serie de casos se encontraron características clínicas y microbiológicas similares a lo reportado en otras investigaciones nacionales e internacionales. Afectando con mayor frecuencia a personas del sexo masculino, siendo el principal agente causal el Staphylococcus aureus, el agente causal. La fiebre y los signos de vasculitis infecciosa fueron las principales manifestacio nes clínicas, afectado con mayor frecuencia la válvula mitral.

Fragilidade entre Pacientes não Idosos Submetidos à Cirurgia Cardíaca / Frailty Among Non-Elderly Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Resumo Fundamento: Geralmente vista como uma característica da velhice, a fragilidade também pode ocorrer em pessoas não idosas, principalmente naquelas que sofrem de doenças crônicas. A fragilidade pode aumentar o risco operatório. Objetivos: Determinar a prevalência de fragilidade em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio (CRM) e/ou troca ou reconstrução valvar e/ou cirurgia valvar, bem como a influência da fragilidade nos desfechos pós-operatórios. Métodos: Nosso estudo incluiu 100 adultos que foram submetidos a operações cardíacas eletivas consecutivas. A fragilidade foi avaliada por meio da escala de Fried. Os pacientes também realizaram um teste de caminhada de 6 minutos, e medimos as pressões inspiratória e expiratória máximas. Um valor de p < 0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: De uma coorte de 100 pacientes, com base nos critérios de fragilidade de Fried, 17 pacientes (17%) foram considerados frágeis, 70 (70%) pré-frágeis e apenas 13 (13%) não frágeis. Entre os portadores de valvopatia, 11 (18,6%) foram considerados frágeis e 43 (73%) pré-frágeis. Cinquenta e três por cento dos pacientes considerados frágeis tinham menos de 60 anos (mediana=48 anos). As diferenças no fenótipo de fragilidade entre os pacientes com valvopatia e doença arterial coronariana não foram estatisticamente significativas (p=0,305). A comparação entre pacientes não frágeis, pré-frágeis e frágeis não mostrou diferença significativa na distribuição das comorbidades e do estado funcional cardíaco, independentemente da doença cardíaca. No entanto, a mortalidade hospitalar mostrou-se significativamente maior em pacientes frágeis (29,4%, p=0,026) que em pacientes pré-frágeis (8,6%) e não frágeis (0%). Conclusões: A fragilidade é prevalente mesmo entre pacientes não idosos submetidos a CRM ou cirurgia cardíaca valvar e está associada a maior mortalidade hospitalar pós-operatória.

Abstract Background: Usually viewed as a characteristic of old age, frailty may also occur in non-elderly people, primarily in those suffering from chronic disease. Frailty may increase operative risk. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of frailty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass (CABG) and/or heart valve replacement or reconstruction and/or heart valve surgery, as well as the influence of frailty on postoperative outcomes. Methods: Our study comprised 100 adults who underwent consecutive elective cardiac operations. Frailty was assessed using the Fried scale. Patients also performed a 6-minute walk test, and we measured maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of a cohort of 100 patients, based on the Fried frailty criteria, 17 patients (17%) were considered frail, 70 (70%) pre-frail and only 13 (13%) were non-frail. Among patients with valvular heart disease, 11 (18.6%) were considered frail and 43 (73%) pre-frail. Fifty three percent of the patients considered frail were less than 60 years old (median=48 years old). The differences in frailty phenotype between patients with valvular heart disease and coronary artery disease were not statistically significant (p=0.305). A comparison between non-frail, pre-frail, and frail patients showed no significant difference in the distribution of comorbidities and cardiac functional status, regardless of their cardiac disease. However, hospital mortality was significantly higher in frail patients (29.4%, p=0.026) than in pre-frail patients (8.6%) and non-frail patients (0%). Conclusions: Frailty is prevalent even among non-elderly patients undergoing CABG or valvular heart surgery and is associated with higher postoperative hospital mortality.

Manejo de la terapia anticoagulante durante el embarazo / Management of anticoagulant therapy during pregnancy

Resumen El embarazo se asocia con 5 a 10 veces mayor riesgo de enfermedad tromboembólica venosa, convirtiéndose en un escenario particular y complejo para la anticoagulación dada la necesidad de seguridad fetal y limitada representación en estudios de eficacia disponibles. Durante la gestación existen tres principales situaciones clínicas: la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa sin factor de riesgo precipitante, el síndrome antifosfolípido y las portadoras de válvulas mecánicas protésicas; todas con un alto riesgo de complicaciones materno-fetales, por lo que es vital conocer los anticoagulantes disponibles para cada patología, su evidencia científica, eventos adversos y características farmacológicas con el fin de realizar el mejor abordaje terapéutico y disminuir complicaciones asociadas. El objetivo es describir los avances de los anticoagulantes en escenarios clínicos de mayor impacto antes de la concepción, durante el embarazo y postparto y servir de herramienta con el fin de realizar el mejor abordaje terapéutico y disminuir complicaciones asociadas. MÉD.UIS.2020;33(2):65-73.

Abstract Pregnancy is associated with a 5 to 10-fold increased risk of venous thromboembolic disease, making it a complex setting for anticoagulation, given the need for fetal safety and limited representation in available efficacy studies. During pregnancy there are three main clinical situations: venous thromboembolic disease without a precipitating risk factor, antiphospholipid syndrome and prosthetic mechanical valve carriers; all with a high risk of maternal-fetal complications, so it is vital to know the anticoagulants available for each pathology, their scientific evidence, adverse events and pharmacological characteristics in order to perform the best therapeutic approach and reduce associated complications. The objective is to describe the advances of anticoagulants in clinical scenarios of greater impact before conception, during pregnancy and postpartum and to serve as a tool in order to carry out the best therapeutic approach and reduce associated complications. MÉD.UIS.2020;33(2):65-73.

Does the use of dynamic surgical guidance assist accurate pedicle screw placement in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia? / O uso do guia cirúrgico dinâmico auxilia a acurácia do posicionamento dos parafusos pediculares em pacientes com osteoporose ou osteopenia? / ¿el uso de guía quirúrgica dinámica ayuda a colocar con precisión los tornillos pediculares en pacientes con osteoporosis u osteopenia?

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the use of a dynamic surgical guide (PediGuard®) and pilot hole preparation, with the use of a probe and the aid of fluoroscopy in osteoporotic or osteopenic patients undergoing pedicular fixation of the thoracic or lumbar spine. Methods One hundred and eight patients were randomized. A pilot hole was prepared with the dynamic surgical guide (PediGuard®), or with a probe with the aid of fluoroscopy. A total of 657 vertebral pedicles (120 thoracic and 180 lumbar) were included in the study. The parameters used for the comparison were: accuracy of the pedicular screw, number of fluoroscopic shots, and change in intraoperative trajectory of the perforation after detecting pedicle wall rupture. Results In the group with use of the dynamic surgical guide, malpositioning of the pedicle screws was observed in 8 (2.6%) patients and intraoperative change of perforation trajectory in 12 (4%) patients, and there were 52 fluoroscopic shots. In the group without use of the dynamic surgical guide (PediGuard®), misplacement of the pedicle screws was observed in 33 (11%) patients and intraoperative change of perforation trajectory in 47 (13.2%) patients, and there were 136 fluoroscopic shots. Conclusion The use of the dynamic surgical guide (PediGuard®) in patients with osteoporosis or osteopenia enabled more accurate placement of pedicular screws, with less change in the intraoperative course of the perforation and less intraoperative radiation. Level of Evidence II; Randomized clinical trial of lesser quality.

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar o uso de um guia cirúrgico dinâmico (PediGuard®) e o preparo de orifício piloto com uma sonda e o auxílio de fluoroscopia em pacientes com osteopenia ou osteoporose submetidos à fixação pedicular da coluna torácica ou lombar. Métodos Cento e oito pacientes foram randomizados. Um orifício piloto foi preparado com o guia cirúrgico dinâmico (PediGuard®) ou com uma sonda com auxílio de fluoroscopia. Foram incluídos no estudo 657 pedículos vertebrais (120 torácicos e 180 lombares). Os parâmetros usados para a comparação foram: acurácia da colocação do parafuso pedicular, número de disparos fluoroscópicos e mudança da trajetória intraoperatória da perfuração depois da detecção de ruptura da parede do pedículo. Resultados No grupo de pacientes em que se usou o guia cirúrgico dinâmico, observou-se mau posicionamento dos parafusos pediculares em oito (2,6%) pacientes e alteração da trajetória intraoperatória da perfuração em 12 (4%) pacientes, com 52 disparos fluoroscópicos. No grupo de pacientes em que o guia cirúrgico dinâmico (PediGuard®) não foi usado o mau posicionamento dos parafusos pediculares foi observado em 33 (11%) pacientes, a mudança intraoperatória da trajetória da perfuração foi vista em 47 (13,2%) pacientes, com 136 disparos fluoroscópicos. Conclusão O uso do guia cirúrgico dinâmico (PediGuard®) em pacientes com osteoporose ou osteopenia permitiu a colocação de parafusos pediculares com maior acurácia, com menor alteração da trajetória intraoperatória da perfuração e menor dose de radiação intraoperatória. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo clínico randomizado de menor qualidade.

RESUMEN Objetivo Comparar el uso de una guía quirúrgica dinámica (PediGuard®) y la preparación del orificio piloto con una sonda y la ayuda de fluoroscopia en pacientes con osteopenia u osteoporosis sometidos a fijación pedicular de la columna torácica o lumbar. Métodos Ciento ocho pacientes fueron asignados aleatoriamente. Se preparó un orificio piloto preparado con la guía quirúrgica dinámica (PediGuard®) o con una sonda con ayuda de fluoroscopia. Se incluyeron en el estudio 657 pedículos vertebrales (120 torácicos y 180 lumbares). Los parámetros utilizados para la comparación fueron: precisión de la colocación del tornillo pedicular, número de disparos del dispositivo de fluoroscopia y cambio en la trayectoria intraoperatoria de la perforación después de la detección de ruptura de la pared del pedículo. Resultados En el grupo de pacientes en el que se utilizó la guía quirúrgica dinámica, se observó mal posicionamiento de los tornillos pediculares en 8 (2,6%) pacientes y cambios de la trayectoria intraoperatoria de la perforación en 12 (4%) pacientes, con 52 disparos del aparato de fluoroscopia. En el grupo de pacientes en los que no se utilizó la guía quirúrgica dinámica (PediGuard®), se observó un mal posicionamiento de los tornillos pediculares en 33 (11%) pacientes, el cambio intraoperatorio de la trayectoria de perforación se observó en 47 (13,2%) pacientes, con 136 disparos fluoroscópicos. Conclusión El uso de la guía quirúrgica dinámica (PediGuard®) en pacientes con osteoporosis u osteopenia permitió la colocación de tornillos pediculares con mayor precisión, menos cambios en la trayectoria intraoperatoria de la perforación y dosis más baja de radiación intraoperatoria. Nivel de Evidencia II; Ensayo clínico aleatorizado de menor calidad.

Caracterización clínico-epidemiológica con enfoque quirúrgico de la endocarditis infecciosa en la región central de Cuba / Clinico-epidemiological characterization with a surgical approach of infective endocarditis in the central region of Cuba

RESUMEN Introducción: La endocarditis infecciosa no ha disminuido su incidencia y mortalidad en los últimos 30 años. Objetivo: Caracterizar los pacientes operados por diagnóstico de endocarditis infecciosa activa. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo que incluyó a 109 pacientes con diagnóstico de esta enfermedad y fueron intervenidos quirúrgicamente en el Cardiocentro Ernesto Che Guevara (Cuba) desde julio de 2010 hasta junio de 2018. La información se obtuvo de las historias clínicas y el informe operatorio. Resultados: La endocarditis infecciosa sobre válvula protésica fue diagnosticada en 15 pacientes (13,8%), pero la más frecuente fue la relacionada con la colonización de dispositivos intracardíacos (51,4%), razón por la que el procedimiento quirúrgico más utilizado fue el cambio de sistema de estimulación. La principal indicación quirúrgica fue la infección incontrolada en 63 casos (57,8%), seguida por la insuficiencia cardíaca (38 pacientes; 34,9%) y en 67 casos (61,5%) los hemocultivos resultaron negativos. La sustitución de la válvula nativa por una prótesis mecánica se realizó en 28 pacientes (25,7%), de los cuáles 15 (13,8%) fueron en posición mitral. El recambio de una prótesis mecánica por otra de igual características se llevó a cabo en 14 (12,8%) casos, 8 (7,3%) de ellos mitrales. La mortalidad global fue de 17,4%, más evidente en aquellos con endocarditis sobre válvula protésica izquierda (7/15). Conclusiones: Predominaron el sexo masculino y la edad mayor de 60 años, así como la presencia de vegetaciones sobre dispositivos intracardíacos y los hemocultivos negativos. La endocarditis sobre válvula protésica se asoció significativamente con la mortalidad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infective endocarditis has not decreased its incidence and mortality in the last 30 years. Objective: To characterize patients operated on due to diagnosis of active infective endocarditis. Method: A retrospective, descriptive study was carried out, which included 109 patients with a diagnosis of this disease, who underwent surgery at Cardiocentro Ernesto Che Guevara (Cuba), from July 2010 to June 2018. The information was obtained from the medical records and the surgical report. Results: Prosthetic valve infective endocarditis was diagnosed in 15 patients (13.8%), but the most frequent was the one related to intracardiac device colonization (51.4%), reason why the most used surgical procedure was the change of the electrical stimulation system. The main surgical indication was the uncontrolled infection in 63 cases (57.8%), followed by heart failure (38 patients; 34.9%) and in 67 cases (61.5%), the blood cultures were negative. The native valve replacement for a mechanical prosthetic valve was performed in 28 patients (25.7%), of which 15 (13.8%) were in mitral position. The replacement of a mechanical prosthetic valve for another with the same characteristics was carried out in 14 (12.8%) cases, 8 (7.3%) of them were mitral. Overall mortality was of 17.4%, more evident in those with left-side prosthetic valve endocarditis (7/15). Conclusions: Male gender and age over 60 years old predominated, as well as the presence of vegetations on intracardiac devices, and negative blood cultures. The prosthetic valve endocarditis was significantly associated with mortality.