Late tricuspid regurgitation after percutaneous transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defect: an educational presentation

Abstract Transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defects (VSD) is not out of complications. Late complications are rare, but important, and sometimes require surgical correction. Herein, we report a case of tricuspid regurgitation as a complication of transcatheter VSD closure. The patient underwent successful surgery. Postoperative course was satisfactory. Echocardiographic examination revealed well-functioning tricuspid valve. We present this case since valve regurgitation after transcatheter procedure requiring surgery is an uncommon but significant complication due to heart failure risk. Even in the absence of any clinical finding, post-procedural close follow-up is important for early diagnosis of the problem to prevent the aforementioned risk.

Padronizando a Exposição à Radiação durante o Cateterismo Cardíaco em Crianças com Cardiopatia Congênita: Dados de um Registro Multicêntrico Brasileiro / Standardizing Radiation Exposure during Cardiac Catheterization in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: Data from a Multicenter Brazilian Registry

Resumo Fundamento Nos últimos anos, o recente aumento no número de procedimentos intervencionistas tem resultado em crescente preocupação em relação à exposição radiológica por pacientes e equipe médica. A avaliação da exposição dos níveis de radiação em crianças é difícil devido à grande variabilidade no peso corporal. Portanto, os valores de referência de radiação não estão bem definidos para essa população. Objetivos Avaliar e validar a razão do produto dose-área (DAP) em relação ao peso corporal como uma medida de referência de radiação em cateterismos cardíacos em crianças. Métodos Estudo multicêntrico observacional com dados do Registro Brasileiro de Cateterismo Cardíaco em Cardiopatias Congênitas (CHAIN) de março de 2013 a junho de 2014. Os critérios de inclusão foram: pacientes <18 anos submetidos a procedimentos hemodinâmicos para cardiopatia congênita, com DAP devidamente registrado. Foram considerados diferenças estatísticas significativas os valores de p < 0,05. Resultados Este estudo avaliou 429 pacientes com idade e peso medianos de 50 (10, 103) meses e 15 (7, 28) kg, respectivamente. O DAP mediano foi de 742,2 (288,8, 1.791,5) μGy.m2. Houve uma boa correlação entre o DAP e o produto peso/tempo de fluoroscopia (rs=0,66). Não foi observada diferença estatisticamente significativa na relação DAP/peso entre procedimentos terapêuticos e diagnósticos. Houve ampla variação da relação DAP/peso entre os procedimentos terapêuticos (p<0.001). Conclusões A proporção DAP/peso é a medida mais simples e aplicável para avaliar a exposição radiológica em uma população pediátrica. Apesar da escassa literatura disponível, as doses obtidas no presente estudo foram semelhantes àquelas encontradas anteriormente. Estudos de validação e comparação são importantes na avaliação do impacto de estratégias para redução da exposição radiológica nessa população. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background In recent years the increasing number of interventional procedures has resulted in growing concerns regarding radiation exposure for patients and staff. The evaluation of radiation exposure in children is difficult due to the great variability in body weight. Therefore, reference levels of radiation are not well defined for this population. Objectives To study and validate the ratio of dose-area product (DAP) to patient weight as a reference measurement of radiation for hemodynamic congenital heart disease procedures in children. Methods This observational multicenter study uses data obtained from a Brazilian registry of cardiac catheterization for congenital heart disease from March 2013 to June 2014. Inclusion criteria were all patients aged <18 years old undergoing hemodynamic procedures for congenital heart disease, with recorded DAP doses. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results This study evaluated 429 patients with median age and weight of 50 (10, 103) months and 15 (7, 28) kg, respectively. Median DAP was 742.2 (288.8, 1,791.5) μGy.m2. There was a good correlation between DAP and weight-fluoroscopic time product(rs=0.66). No statistically significant difference was observed in DAP/weight ratio between therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. There was a wide variation in the DAP/weight ratio among the therapeutic procedures (p<0.001). Conclusions The DAP/weight ratio is the simplest and most applicable measurement to evaluate radiation exposure in a pediatric population. Although there is limited literature available, the doses obtained in the present study were similar to those previously found. Ongoing research is important to evaluate the impact of strategies to reduce radiation exposure in this population (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Comparison of postoperative changes in inflammatory marker levels between transthoracic and transcatheter device closures of atrial septal defects in children

Abstract Objective: To explore the postoperative changes in inflammatory markers in children who underwent device closure of an atrial septal defect (ASD) via a transthoracic or transcatheter approach. Methods: The experimental and clinical data were retrospectively collected and analyzed for a total of 53 pediatric patients between September 2018 and December 2018. According to the different treatments, 19 patients who underwent transthoracic device closure were assigned to group A, and the remaining 34 patients who underwent a transcatheter approach were assigned to group B. Results: All patients were successfully occluded without any device-related severe complication. Compared with the preoperative levels, the postoperative levels of most inflammatory cytokines in both groups were significantly increased and reached a peak on the first day after the procedure. The level of postoperative inflammatory cytokines was significantly lower in group B than in group A. In addition, there was no significant difference in procalcitonin before and after the transcatheter approach. Conclusion: Systemic inflammatory reactions occurred after transthoracic or transcatheter device closure of ASDs in pediatric patients. However, these inflammatory reactions were more significant in patients who underwent a transthoracic approach than in patients who underwent a transcatheter approach.

Two HEmostasis Methods After TransradIal Catheterization: THEMATIC - protocol for a randomized clinical trial / Dos métodos de hemostasia luego de un cateterismo transradial: THEMATIC - protocolo de ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Dois métodos de hemostasia após cateterismo transradial: THEMATIC - protocolo de ensaio clínico randomizado

Abstract OBJECTIVE Randomized clinical trial protocol to evaluate the incidence of radial artery occlusion with two different arterial compression devices after transradial procedures. METHODS Barbeau's test will be performed in adults scheduled to undergo transradial interventional procedures. Those with A, B, or C plethysmographic patterns will be selected. At the end of the procedure, patients will be randomly assigned (1:1) to receive patent haemostasis with TR Band™ device or conventional haemostasis with an elastic adhesive bandage. The primary outcome is the incidence of radial artery occlusion. Secondary outcomes are Barbeau's test curve change, additional time to achieve haemostasis, incidence of bleeding at the puncture site, pain severity, development of arteriovenous fistula, radial pseudo aneurysm, any access-site complication requiring vascular surgery intervention and costs between the two devices. DISCUSSION The results of this trial should provide valuable additional information on the best approach for haemostasis after transradial percutaneous cardiovascular interventions.

Resumen OBJETIVO Protocolo de ensayo clínico randomizado para evaluar la incidencia de oclusión de la arteria radial con dos dispositivos de compresión arterial después de pasar por procedimientos transradiales. MÉTODO Se realizará el test de Barbeau en adultos que están esperando una intervención transradial. Se seleccionarán aquellos con padrones pletismográficos A, B o C. Al final del procedimiento, se dividirán a los pacientes de forma aleatoria (1:1) para recibir la hemostasia patente con dispositivo TR Band™ o hemostasia convencional con vendaje elástico adhesivo. El resultado primario es la incidencia de oclusión de la arteria radial. Los resultados secundarios son la alteración de la curva del test de Barbeau, tiempo adicional para alcanzar la hemostasia, incidencia de sangrado en el local de la punción, intensidad del dolor, desarrollo de una fístula arteriovenosa, pseudoaneurisma, cualquier complicación en el lugar de acceso que necesite intervención quirúrgica vascular y costos entre ambos dispositivos. DISCUSIÓN Los resultados de este estudio deben proporcionar informaciones adicionales valiosas sobre un mejor enfoque para la hemostasia luego de intervenciones cardiovasculares percutáneas transradiales.

Resumo OBJETIVO Protocolo de ensaio clínico randomizado para avaliar a incidência de oclusão da artéria radial com dois dispositivos diferentes de compressão arterial após procedimentos transradiais. MÉTODOS O teste de Barbeau será realizado em adultos que serão submetidos a procedimentos de intervenção transradial previamente agendados. Aqueles com padrões pletismográficos A, B ou C serão selecionados. No final do procedimento, os pacientes serão distribuídos aleatoriamente (1:1) para receber hemostasia patente com dispositivo TR Band™ ou hemostasia convencional com bandagem elástica adesiva. O desfecho primário é a incidência da oclusão da artéria radial. Os desfechos secundários são alteração da curva do teste de Barbeau, tempo adicional para atingir a hemostasia, incidência de sangramento no local da punção, intensidade da dor, desenvolvimento de fístula arteriovenosa, pseudoaneurisma, qualquer complicação no local de acesso que necessite intervenção cirúrgica vascular e custos entre os dois dispositivos. DISCUSSÃO: Os resultados deste estudo devem fornecer informações adicionais valiosas sobre a melhor abordagem para a hemostasia após intervenções cardiovasculares percutâneas transradiais.

Vascular complications in patients who underwent endovascular cardiac procedures: multicenter cohort study / Complicações vasculares em pacientes submetidos a procedimentos cardiológicos endovasculares: coorte multicêntrica / Complicaciones vasculares en pacientes sometidos a procedimientos cardiológicos endovasculares: cohorte multicéntrica

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze vascular complications among patients who underwent endovascular cardiac procedures in the hemodynamic laboratories of three referral centers. Method: a multicenter cohort study was conducted in three referral facilities. The sample was composed of 2,696 adult patients who had undergone elective or urgent percutaneous cardiac procedures. The outcomes were vascular complications, such as: hematoma at the site of the arterial puncture; major or minor bleeding; surgical correction for retroperitoneal hemorrhage; pseudoaneurysm; and arteriovenous fistula. Results: 237 (8.8%) of the 2,696 patients presented a vascular complication at the site of the arterial puncture. The total number of vascular complications was 264: minor hematoma<10cm (n=135); stable bleeding (n=86); major hematoma ≥10cm (n=32); and unstable bleeding (n=11). There were no retroperitoneal hematoma events, pseudoaneurysm or arterial venous fistula. Most of the major and minor complications occurred in the first six hours after the procedure. Conclusion: the results concerning the current context of interventional cardiology indicate that the complications predominantly occur in the first six hours after the procedure, considering a 48-hour follow-up. The staff should plan and implement preventive measures immediately after the procedures.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as complicações vasculares de pacientes submetidos a procedimentos cardiológicos endovasculares em laboratório de hemodinâmica de três centros de referência. Método: estudo de coorte multicêntrico, em três instituições de referência, sendo a amostra constituída de 2.696 pacientes, incluindo pacientes adultos que realizaram procedimento percutâneo cardiológico em caráter eletivo ou urgente. Foram considerados como desfechos a presença de complicações vasculares, como hematoma no local da punção arterial, sangramento maior e menor e correção cirúrgica para hemorragia retroperitoneal, pseudoaneurisma ou formação de fístula arteriovenosa. Resultados: dos 2.696 pacientes, 237 (8,8%) apresentaram algum tipo de complicação vascular no sítio de punção arterial. O número total de complicações vasculares foi 264: hematoma menor <10 cm (n=135), sangramento estável (n=86), hematoma maior ≥10 cm (n=32) e sangramento instável (n=11). Não ocorreu evento de hematoma retroperitoneal, pseudoaneurisma ou fístula arteriovenosa. Majoritariamente, tanto as complicações maiores como as menores ocorreram nas primeiras seis horas após o procedimento. Conclusão: os resultados das complicações no cenário atual da cardiologia intervencionista indicam que a incidência dessas ocorre predominantemente nas primeiras seis horas após os procedimentos, considerando a avaliação até 48 horas. Medidas preventivas imediatas aos procedimentos devem ser planejadas e implementadas pela equipe.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar las complicaciones vasculares de pacientes sometidos a procedimientos cardiológicos endovasculares en laboratorio de hemodinámica, en tres centros de referencia. Método: fue diseñado un estudio de cohorte multicéntrica en tres instituciones de referencia. La muestra estuvo constituida por 2.696 pacientes; fueron incluidos pacientes adultos que realizaron procedimiento percutáneo cardiológico en carácter electivo o urgente; los que fueron considerados como resultado de la presencia de complicaciones vasculares, como: hematoma en el local de la punción arterial; hemorragia mayor y menor y corrección quirúrgica para hemorragia retroperitoneal, pseudoaneurisma o formación de fístula arterial venosa. Resultados: de los 2.696 pacientes, 237(8,8%) presentaron algún tipo de complicación vascular en el sitio de la punción arterial. El número total de complicaciones vasculares fue 264: hematoma menor <10cm (n=135), hemorragia estable (n=86), hematoma mayor ≥10cm (n=32) y hemorragia inestable (n=11). No ocurrió evento de hematoma retroperitoneal, pseudoaneurisma o fístula arterial venosa. En su mayoría, tanto las complicaciones mayores como las menores ocurrieron en las primeras seis horas después del procedimiento. Conclusión: los resultados de las complicaciones, en el escenario actual de la cardiología intervencionista, indican que la incidencia de ellas ocurre predominantemente en las primeras seis horas después de los procedimientos, considerando la evaluación hasta 48h. Medidas preventivas inmediatas a los procedimientos deben ser planificadas e implementadas por el equipo.

Reducing bed rest time from five to three hours does not increase complications after cardiac catheterization: the THREE CATH Trial / Redução do repouso de cinco para três horas não aumenta complicações após cateterismo cardíaco: THREE CATH Clinical Trial / La reducción del reposo de cinco para tres horas no aumenta las complicaciones después del Clinical Trial Three Cath

Abstract Objective: to compare the incidence of vascular complications in patients undergoing transfemoral cardiac catheterization with a 6F introducer sheath followed by 3-hour versus 5-hour rest. Methods: randomized clinical trial. Subjects in the intervention group (IG) ambulated 3 hours after sheath removal, versus 5 hours in the control group (CG). All patients remained in the catheterization laboratory for 5 hours and were assessed hourly, and were contacted 24, 48, and 72 h after hospital discharge. Results: the sample comprised 367 patients in the IG and 363 in the GC. During cath lab stay, hematoma was the most common complication in both groups, occurring in 12 (3%) IG and 13 (4%) CG subjects (P=0.87). Bleeding occurred in 4 (1%) IG and 6 (2%) CG subjects (P=0.51), and vasovagal reaction in 5 (1.4%) IG and 4 (1.1%) CG subjects (P=0.75). At 24-h, 48-h, and 72-h bruising was the most commonly reported complication in both groups. None of the comparisons revealed any significant between-group differences. Conclusion: the results of this trial show that reducing bed rest time to 3 hours after elective cardiac catheterization is safe and does not increase complications as compared with a 5-hour rest. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT-01740856

Resumo Objetivo: comparar a incidência de complicações vasculares em pacientes submetidos a cateterismo cardíaco com introdutor 6 French sob abordagem transfemoral com repouso de 3 horas e de 5 horas Método: ensaio clínico randomizado. Os sujeitos incluídos no grupo intervenção (GI) deambularam 3 horas após a retirada do introdutor versus 5 horas para os do grupo controle (GC). Todos os pacientes permaneceram 5 horas no laboratório de hemodinâmica (LH), onde foram avaliados a cada hora, e foram contatados em 24, 48 e 72 h após a alta hospitalar. Resultados: a amostra foi composta por 367 pacientes no GI e 363 no GC. Durante a permanência no LH, hematoma foi a complicação mais observada em ambos os grupos, ocorrendo em 12 (3%) pacientes do GI e 13 (4%) do GC (P=0,87). Sangramento ocorreu em 4 (1%) pacientes do GI e 6 (2%) do GC (P=0,51), e reação vasovagal em 5 (1,4%) pacientes do GI e 4 (1,1%) do GC (P=0,75). Em 24, 48 e 72 h, equimose foi a complicação mais relatada por ambos os grupos, seguida por dor no local da punção. Nenhuma das comparações revelou significância estatística entre os grupos. Conclusão: as resultados deste estudo demonstram que a redução do tempo de repouso para 3 horas após cateterismo cardíaco eletivo mostrou-se segura, não ocasionando um aumento de complicações quando comparada ao repouso de 5 horas. Registro Clinical Trials: NCT-01740856.

Resumen Objetivo: comparar la incidencia de complicaciones vasculares en pacientes sometidos a cateterismo cardíaco con introductor 6 French bajo abordaje transfemoral con reposo de 3 horas y de 5 horas Método: ensayo clínico aleatorio. Los sujetos incluidos en el grupo intervención (GI) deambularon 3 horas después de la retirada del introductor versus 5 horas para los del grupo control (GC). Todos los pacientes permanecieron 5 horas en el laboratorio de hemodinámica (LH), en donde fueron evaluados a cada hora, y fueron contactados en 24, 48 y 72 h después del alta hospitalaria. Resultados: la muestra estuvo compuesta por 367 pacientes en el GI y 363 en el GC. Durante la permanencia en el LH, el hematoma fue la complicación más observada en los dos grupos, ocurriendo en 12 (3%) pacientes del GI y 13 (4%) del GC (P=0,87). La hemorragia ocurrió en 4 (1%) pacientes del GI y 6 (2%) del GC (P=0,51), y la reacción vasovagal en 5 (1,4%) pacientes del GI y 4 (1,1%) del GC (P=0,75). En 24, 48 y 72 h, la equimosis fue la complicación más relatada por los dos grupos, seguida por dolor en el local de la punción. Ninguna de las comparaciones reveló tener significación estadística entre los grupos. Conclusión: los resultados de este estudio demuestran que la reducción del tiempo de reposo para 3 horas después del cardíaco electivo se mostró segura, no ocasionando un aumento de complicaciones cuando comparada al reposo de 5 horas. Registro Clinical Trials: NCT-01740856

Factores de riesgo para la formación de trombos sobre el dispositivo ULTRASEPT®, en pacientes con fibrilación auricular sometidos a cierre percutáneo de orejuela izquierda / Risk factors for thrombus formation on the ULTRASEPT® device in patiens with atrial fibrillation being submitted to left atrial appendage closure

Introducción: El cierre percutáneo de orejuela izquierda con dispositivos percutáneos (CPOI) ha demostrado ser útil en la prevención de embolia arterial como alternativa al tratamiento anticoagulante (TACO) en pacientes con fibrilación auricular no valvular (FANV). Sin embargo, en las primeras semanas post implante, existe el riesgo de formación de trombos sobre el dispositivo. Objetivos: Describir e Identificar los factores de riesgo para la formación de trombos sobre el dispositivo posterior al cierre de orejuela izquierda. Métodos: Se incluyeron 15 pacientes con FANV y alto riesgo hemorrágico, sometidos a CPOI con dispositivo Ultrasept (Cardia Inc., Eagan, MN), en el Hospital Clínico de la Universidad Católica, entre Abril 2013 y Junio 2014. A todos se les realizó eco-cardiograma transesofágico (ETE) al primer, tercer y sexto mes post implante. Todos los pacientes recibieron aspirina en forma permanente y TACO por 45 días el que se reemplazó por clopidogrel hasta el sexto mes post implante. Se analizaron parámetros clínicos y ecocardiográficos en forma retrospectiva para identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a la formación de trombos sobre el dispositivo. Resultados: La edad promedio de los pacientes fue 77± 8 años, 73% de sexo masculino. El 80% tenía FA permanente y 20% FA paroxística. EL Score de CHA2DS2VASc promedio fue de 5 (mínimo 3, máximo 8 puntos). En 4 pacientes (26.6%), encontramos trombos en el dispositivo en el seguimiento con ETE (1 paciente al primer mes y 3 al tercer mes), sin consecuencias clínicas. Al comparar los pacientes que formaron trombos con el resto, no hubo diferencias en las variables clínicas (edad, sexo, Hipertensión arterial (HTA), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Dislipidemia, Tabaquismo, Insuficiencia Renal, AVE previos), ni en las variables ecocardiográficas estudiadas, como el área de la aurícula izquierda (AI), contraste espontáneo en la AI, insuficiencia mitral ni cierre incompleto de orejuela (medida por la existencia de flujo peridispositivo). Sin embargo, los pacientes con trombos presentaron CHA2DS2VASc score más alto (7.1 vs 4.7; p= 0.001) y fracción de eyección (FE) más baja (43% vs 55%; p= 0.001). En la curva ROC de CHA2DS2VASc para predecir una mayor probabilidad de formación de trombos, un valor > 6 obtiene una sensibilidad de un 100% y una especificidad de un 80%. En nuestro seguimiento clínico de 2 años ± 5.7 meses posterior al implante, 1 paciente tuvo un AVE isquémico identificando como fuente enfermedad carotidea (no tenía trombos en el dispositivo). El resto de los pacientes se mantienen asintomáticos. Conclusiones: En nuestra experiencia, el CHA2DS-2VASc score (> 6) y la fracción de eyección baja, fueron factores de riesgo para la formación de trombos sobre el dispositivo de cierre de orejuela. Este hallazgo debería confirmarse en series más grandes dado que podría cambiar la estrategia de anticoagulación post implante.

Background: Percutaneous closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) has been shown to be useful in the prevention of arterial embolism as an alternative to oral anticoagulants in patients with non valvular atrial fibrillation. However, thrombus formation may develop in the first weeks following device implantation/ Aim: to identify risk factors for thrombus development on devices used for LAA closure. Methods: 15 patients with non valvular AF and high risk for anticoagulant treatment were included. Patients received an Ultrasept (Cardia Inc., Eagan, MN) between April 2013 and June 2014. Transesophageal echocardiography was performed in all patients 1, 3 and 6 months post implant. All patients received aspirin permanently and acenocumarol for 45 days, followed by clopidogrel until 6 months post implant. Results: Mean age was 77 years old (SD 8). 73% were males. AF was permanent in 80% and paroxysmal in 20%. Mean CHA2DS2VASC was 8 (range 3 to 8). Thrombus were revealed by TEE in 4 patients (26.6%), at 1 month (1 patient) and at 3 months post implant (3 patients). No complications occurred in these patients. Clinical variables (age, sex, hyper-tension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking habit, renal failure and prior strokes) were no different in patients with or without thrombus. The same was true for left atrial size, mitral insufficiency or incomplete closure of LAA. In contrast, patients with thrombus formation had a higher CHA2DS2VASc score (7.1 vs 4.7, p=0.001 and a lower LV ejection fraction (43% vs 55%, p=0.001). A CHA2DS2VASc score > 6 was 100% sensible and 80% specific for thrombus formation (ROC curve). After a follow-up of 24 ± 5 months only 1 patients had and ischemic cerebro-vascular event which was attributed to carotid artery disease (the patient had no evidence of device thrombus). All other patients remain asymptomatic. Conclusion: A CHA2DS2VASc score > 6 and a low ejection fraction were risk factors for thrombus formation on LAA closing device. Confirmation of these findings in a larger series of patients could lead to a change in anticoagulant strategy following the implantation of devices to close the LAA.

Hemodynamic Follow-Up in Adult Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Atrial Septal Defect after Partial Closure

PURPOSE: We evaluated the hemodynamic statuses of patients after partial closure of atrial septal defects with fenestration due to pulmonary hypertension. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen adult patients underwent partial atrial septal defect closure and follow-up cardiac catheterization. We analyzed hemodynamic data and clinical parameters before and after closure. RESULTS: The median age at closure was 29 years old. The baseline Qp/Qs was 1.9+/-0.6. The median interval from the operation to the cardiac catheterization was 27 months. The CT ratio decreased from 0.55+/-0.07 to 0.48+/-0.06 (p<0.05). The mean pulmonary arterial pressure decreased from 50.0+/-11.5 mm Hg to 32.5+/-14.4 mm Hg (p<0.05), and the pulmonary resistance index decreased from 9.2+/-3.6 Wood units*m2 to 6.3+/-3.8 Wood units*m2 (p<0.05). Eleven patients (64.7%) continued to exhibit high pulmonary resistance (over 3.0 Wood units*m2) after closure. These patients had significantly higher pulmonary resistance indices and mean pulmonary arterial pressures based on oxygen testing before the partial closures (p<0.05). However, no significant predictors of post-closure pulmonary hypertension were identified. CONCLUSION: Despite improvement in symptoms and hemodynamics after partial closure of an atrial septal defect, pulmonary hypertension should be monitored carefully.

Comparison of Outcomes after Device Closure and Medication Alone in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale and Cryptogenic Stroke in Korean Population

PURPOSE: To compare the effectiveness of device closure and medical therapy in prevention of recurrent embolic event in the Korean population with cryptogenic stroke and patent foramen ovale (PFO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Consecutive 164 patients (men: 126 patients, mean age: 48.1 years, closure group: 72 patients, medical group: 92 patients) were enrolled. The primary end point was a composite of death, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or peripheral embolism. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups, except age, which was higher in the medical group (45.3±9.8 vs. 50.2±6.1, p<0.0001), and risk of paradoxical embolism score, which was higher in the closure group (6.2±1.6 vs. 5.7±1.3, p=0.026). On echocardiography, large right-to-left shunt (81.9% vs. 63.0%, p=0.009) and shunt at rest/septal hypermobility (61.1% vs. 23.9%, p<0.0001) were more common in the closure group. The device was successfully implanted in 71 (98.6%) patients. The primary end point occurred in 2 patients (2 TIA, 2.8%) in the closure group and in 2 (1 death, 1 stroke, 2.2%) in the medical group. Event-free survival rate did not differ between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Compared to medical therapy, device closure of PFO in patients with cryptogenic stroke did not show difference in reduction of recurrent embolic events in the real world's setting. However, considering high risk of echocardiographic findings in the closure group, further investigation of the role of PFO closure in the Asian population is needed.

Pulmonary edema following transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect.

We describe an incident of development of acute pulmonary edema after the device closure of a secundum atrial septal defect in a 52-year-old lady, which was treated with inotropes, diuretics and artificial ventilation. Possibility of acute left ventricular dysfunction should be considered after the defect closure in the middle-aged patients as the left ventricular compliance may be reduced due to increased elastic stiffness and diastolic dysfunction. Baseline left atrial pressure may be > 10 mmHg in these patients. Associated risk factors for the left ventricular dysfunction are a large Qp:Qs ratio, systemic hypertension, severe pulmonary hypertension and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Analgesia, sedación y anestesia para cateterismo diagnóstico y/o terapéutico en pacientes pediátricos con cardiopatías congénitas en el Hospital Clínico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile: algunas recomendaciones / Analgesia, sedation and anesthesia in diagnostic or therapeutic catheterization in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease

Las presentes recomendaciones han sido elaboradas en base a nuestra experiencia, con el propósito de entregar algunas pautas sobre analgesia, sedación y anestesia para cateterismos diagnósticos y/o terapéuticos en pacientes pediátricos con cardiopatías congénitas, de acuerdo a la clasificación de riesgo de los mismos. El propósito de ésta es contribuir a disminuir la incidencia de eventos adversos asociados a morbilidad y mortalidad.

Recommendations based con clinical experience with analgesia, sedation and anesthesia in diagnostic or therapeutic cardiac catheterization in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease are outlined. These recommendations, based on clinical experience at a single institution (Catholic University Hospital in Santiago, Chile) are intended to help reduce de incidence of adverse effects, morbidity and mortality in this patient population.

Experiência Inicial de Dois Centros Nacionais no Implante de Prótese Aórtica Transcateter / Initial Experience of Two National Centers in Transcatheter Aortic Prosthesis Implantation

Fundamento: O implante de prótese aórtica transcateter é uma alternativa efetiva para o tratamento cirúrgico para a correção de estenose aórtica grave em pacientes inoperáveis ou de alto risco cirúrgico. Objetivos: Apresentar os resultados clínicos e ecocardiográficos imediatos e no médio prazo da experiência inicial do implante de prótese aórtica transcateter. Métodos: Entre junho de 2009 e fevereiro de 2013, 112 pacientes foram submetidos a implante de prótese aórtica transcateter. Resultados: A idade média foi 82,5 ± 6,5 anos e o Euro SCORE logístico foi 23,6 ± 13,5. O sucesso do procedimento foi de 84%. Após o implante, houve queda do gradiente sistólico médio (pré = 54,7 ± 15,3 mmHg vs. pós = 11,7 ± 4,0 mmHg; p < 0,01). Acidente vascular cerebral ocorreu em 3,6% dos pacientes, complicações vasculares em 19%, e foi necessário o implante de marca-passo definitivo em 13% dos pacientes nos primeiros 30 dias pós-implante. A mortalidade aos 30 dias e no seguimento médio de 16 ± 11 meses foi, respectivamente, de 14 e de 8,9%. A presença de doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica foi o único preditor de mortalidade em 30 dias e no seguimento. A área valvar aórtica e o gradiente sistólico médio não apresentaram variações significativas durante o seguimento. Conclusões: O implante de prótese aórtica transcateter é um procedimento eficaz e seguro para o tratamento da estenose aórtica em pacientes de alto risco cirúrgico ou inoperáveis. A presença de doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica foi o único preditor independente de mortalidade identificado, tanto no primeiro mês pós-intervenção quanto no seguimento mais tardio. .

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is an effective alternative to surgical treatment of severe aortic stenosis in patients who are inoperable or at high surgical risk. Objectives: To report the immediate and follow-up clinical and echocardiographic results of the initial experience of transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Methods: From 2009 June to 2013 February, 112 patients underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Results: Mean age was 82.5 ± 6.5 years, and the logistic EuroSCORE was 23.6 ± 13.5. Procedural success was 84%. After the intervention, a reduction in the mean systolic gradient was observed (pre: 54.7 ± 15.3 vs. post: 11.7 ± 4.0 mmHg; p < 0.01). Cerebrovascular accidents occurred in 3.6%, vascular complications in 19% and permanent pacemaker was required by 13% of the patients. Thirty-day mortality and at follow-up of 16 ± 11 months was 14% and 8.9% respectively. The presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was the only predictor of mortality at 30 days and at follow-up. During follow up, aortic valve area and mean systolic gradient did not change significantly. Conclusions: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is an effective and safe procedure for the treatment of aortic stenosis in high-surgical risk or inoperable patients. The presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was the only independent predictor of mortality identified both in the first month post-intervention and at follow-up. .

Desconfortos Relatados Pelos Pacientes Após Cateterismo Cardíaco Pelas Vias Femoral ou Radial / Discomfort Reported by Patients After Cardiac Catheterization Using the Femoral or Radial Approaches

Introdução: Queixas são frequentes por parte dos pacientes submetidos a procedimentos invasivos percutâneos. Nosso objetivo foi verificar os desconfortos de pacientes submetidos a cateterismo cardíaco pelas vias femoral e radial. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com amostra não probabilística de adultos submetidos a cateterismo. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionário. Resultados: Foram estudados 228 pacientes, sendo 205 que realizaram procedimento pela via femoral e 23 pela radial. Em todos os pacientes, foi utilizado o introdutor arterial 6 F. A média de idades foi de 60,0 ± 11,5 anos, e a maioria era do sexo masculino (50,4%). As principais queixas foram dor lombar (65,8%) e mal-estar (32,0%). Em uma escala de zero a 10, o valor médio atribuído para a intensidade de dor lombar foi de 5,0 ± 4,2 e de 1,5 ± 2,7 para dor no local da punção. Pacientes que realizaram o procedimento pela via radial referiram ter mais dor no local da punção do que os que utilizaram a via femoral (26,8% vs. 52,2%; p = 0,01). No entanto, os pacientes abordados por via femoral relataram mais frequentemente dor lombar (69,8% vs. 30,4%; p < 0,01) e mal-estar (34,6% vs. 8,7%; p = 0,01). Conclusões: O desconforto predominante pós-punção femoral foi a lombalgia e, naqueles submetidos à punção radial, foi a dor no local da punção. Nossos achados remetem a recomendações para a prática clínica que promova a qualidade da assistência, como instituir medidas de conforto ao paciente, como o uso de coxins, mudança de decúbito, auxílio na deambulação e criação de um ambiente acolhedor.

Background: Complaints of patients undergoing invasive per-cutaneous procedures are a frequent finding. Our objective was to assess the discomfort of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization using femoral or radial approach. Methods: Cross-sectional study with a non-probabilistic sample of adults undergoing catheterization. Data were collected through a questionnaire. Results: We included 228 patients, 205 who underwent the procedure via the femoral approach and 23 by the radial approach. A 6 F arterial sheath was used in all patients. Mean age was 60.0 ± 11.5 years and most of them were male (50.4%). The main complaints were lumbar pain in 65.8% and malaise in 32.0% of the cases. In a scale of 0 to 10, the average value assigned for lumbar pain intensity was 5.0 ± 4.2 and 1.5 ± 2.7 for pain at the puncture site. Patients who used the radial approach reported having more pain at the puncture site than patients who used the femoral access (26.8% vs. 52.2%; p = 0.01). However, patients who used the femoral approach most often reported lumbar pain (69.8% vs. 30.4%; p < 0.01) and malaise (34.6% vs. 8.7%; p = 0.01). Conclusions: The predominant discomfort after femoral puncture was lumbar pain and in patients undergoing radial puncture it was pain at the access site. Our findings corroborate the recommendations for a clinical practice that promotes better patient care, including comfort measures, such as the use of cushions, changes in body position, supervised ambulation and the creation of a welcoming environment.

Incidence, management and subsequent outcome of transcatheter embolized devices- three years audit at a tertiary cardiac care center

To audit the incidence of misplaced devices during varied interventional procedures carried out in our catheter lab over a period of three years. Descriptive study Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and National Institute of Heart Diseases. From January 2011 to December 2103 All adult and pediatric cases with structural heart disease both congenital and acquired undergoing interventional procedures were included in the study. Out of a total of 3256 patients, 1174 patients who underwent cardiac catheter device implantation procedures during the study period were included in the study. Nineteen patients out of 1174 patients [1.6%] had device embolization acutely or sub acutely following the procedure. The varied reasons for the device embolizations were analyzed in this study. We concluded that for retrieval to be successful via the transcathter approach, it was important to have a wide selection of retrieval equipment available and to be conversant with its use. Our audit also concludes that device implantation at our center are safe and an effective procedure with minimal complications

Outcome and immediate complications of device occlusion of different types of patent ductus arteriosus with range of devices

The aim of our study was to report the outcome and immediate complications of PDA device closure, comparing ducts according to Krichenko classification. Quasi experimental study. Pediatric Cardiology Department of Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology / National institute of Heart Diseases [AFIC/NIHD] from 1[st] May 2012 to 30[th] Nov 2013. Total 368 consecutive cases, were included with intention of transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus [PDA]. Detailed echocardiography was done before procedure. Aortogram determined duct size, length, narrowest diameter and morphology. Device attempted only after duct was considered suitable. The mean narrowest duct diameter was 4.5 +/- 2.4 mm. Out of 368 cases, five cases were considered unsuitable for device closure after aortogram. In two cases, device embolized after deployment and in one case procedure abandoned due to technical reasons. There was no cardiac perforation, tamponade or death in our study population. The success according to Krichenko duct types was 100% for type A, 100% for type B, 87.5% for type C, 100% for type D and 100% for type E. PDA device closure is a safe and effective therapeutic option in vast majority of cases. Type C tubular type ducts are more difficult to negotiate with high complication rates

Acute Kidney Injury after Using Contrast during Cardiac Catheterization in Children with Heart Disease

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is closely associated with the mortality of hospitalized patients and long-term development of chronic kidney disease, especially in children. The purpose of our study was to assess the evidence of contrast-induced AKI after cardiac catheterization in children with heart disease and evaluate the clinical usefulness of candidate biomarkers in AKI. A total of 26 children undergoing cardiac catheterization due to various heart diseases were selected and urine and blood samples were taken at 0 hr, 6 hr, 24 hr, and 48 hr after cardiac catheterization. Until 48 hr after cardiac catheterization, there was no significant increase in serum creatinine level in all patients. Unlike urine kidney injury molecule-1, IL-18 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, urine liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) level showed biphasic pattern and the significant difference in the levels of urine L-FABP between 24 and 48 hr. We suggest that urine L-FABP can be one of the useful biomarkers to detect subclinical AKI developed by the contrast before cardiac surgery.

Fechamento percutâneo versus cirúrgico da comunicação interatrial em crianças e adolescente / Percutaneous versus surgical closure of atrial septal defects in children and adolescents

FUNDAMENTO: Há uma paucidade de dados comparando o método percutâneo e o cirúrgico para tratamento da comunicação interatrial tipo ostium secundum. OBJETIVOS: Análise de segurança e eficácia comparando ambos os métodos tratamento em um hospital excelência com vínculo o Ministério de Saúde. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, prospectivo, não randomizado de duas coortes de crianças e adolescentes < 14 anos tratadas por meio do cateterismo intervencionista (grupo A) ou da cirurgia cardíaca convencional (grupo B). A coleta dos dados foi prospectiva no grupo A e retrospectiva no B. RESULTADOS: De abr/2009 a out/2011 foram alocados 75 pts no grupo A e entre jan/2006 e jan/2011foram tratados 105 pts no grupo B. A idade e o peso dos pacientes foram maiores no grupo B e o diâmetro da comunicação interatrial do tipo ostium secundum foi semelhante entre os grupos. Sucesso técnico foi observado em todos os procedimentos e não houve óbitos. Complicações (a maioria menores) foram encontradas em 68% no grupo B e em 4% do grupo A (p < 0,001). As taxas de fluxo residual não significativo ou de oclusão total do defeito foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. A mediana de internação foi de 1,2 dias após o procedimento percutâneo e 8,4 dias após a correção cirúrgica (p < 0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Ambos os tratamentos são seguros e eficazes com ótimos desfechos, porém o tratamento percutâneo apresenta menor morbidade e tempo de internação. Tais observações embasam a visão que essa forma de tratamento deve ser, hoje em dia, o método de escolha para pacientes selecionados com CIA do tipo ostium secundum.

BACKGROUND: There is a scarcity of data comparing percutaneous and surgical closure of the secundum atrial septal defect (ASD). OBJECTIVES: Assessment of safety and efficacy of both methods of treatment in a referral center affiliated with the Ministry of Health. METHODS: Observational, prospective, non-randomized study of two cohorts of children and adolescents younger than 14 years, treated by catheterization or surgery. Data was collected prospectively in the percutaneous group (A) and retrospectively in the surgical group (B). RESULTS: A total of 75 patients (pts) were enrolled in group A from April 2009 to October 2011 and 105 pts were treated in group B from January 2006 to January 2011. Age was older and weight was higher in group B and the ASD diameter was similar in both groups. Technical success was achieved in all procedures and there were no deaths. Complications (most minor) occurred in 68% of group B and 4% of A (p < 0.001). Rates of total occlusion or non-significant residual shunts were similar in both groups. Median hospitalization time was 1.2 days in group A and 8.4 days in group B (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Both treatment modalities are safe and effective, showing excellent outcomes. However, the percutaneous treatment has lower morbidity and shorter in-hospital stay length. These observations support the concept that percutaneous treatment of atrial septal defects should be regarded as the method of choice to manage selected patients with this condition.

Interferência de introdutores reprocessados na oclusão da artéria radial após cateterismo cardíaco / Interference of reprocessed introducers in radial artery occlusion after cardiac catheterization

INTRODUÇÃO: A oclusão da artéria radial (OAR) é uma complicação clinicamente silenciosa do cateterismo transradial, mas pode predispor à isquemia da mão. Fatores associados a essa complicação conhecidos são o calibre dos introdutores e cateteres, a dose de heparina utilizada, o número de reutilizações da artéria radial e o tipo de curativo compressivo aplicado. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar se existe associação entre a utilização de introdutores vasculares hidrofílicos reprocessados e a OAR. MÉTODOS: Pacientes submetidos a cateterismo transradial foram randomizados para introdutores novos (Grupo I - GI) ou reprocessados (Grupo II - GII). A presença de OAR foi avaliada em 24 horas (precoce) e 30 dias (tardia), por meio do teste de Barbeau reverso. RESULTADOS: Foram alocados 228 pacientes no GI (n = 100) e no GII (n = 128). A idade foi de 60,1 ± 10,6 anos vs. 59,4 ± 10,9 anos (P = 0,64), 49% vs. 35,2% (P = 0,03) eram do sexo feminino e 25% vs. 27,3% (P = 0,70) eram diabéticos. Observaram-se incidências totais de OAR precoce de 10,5% e de 9,1% para OAR tardia. Dez pacientes do GI (10%) apresentaram OAR precoce, comparados a 14 (10,9%) do GII (χ² = 0,05; RR = 1,09; P = 0,82). Na avaliação de 30 dias, foi encontrada OAR em 6 pacientes do GI (7,5%) comparados a 11 pacientes (10,4%) do GII (χ² = 0,45; RR = 1,38; P = 0,50). CONCLUSÕES: Na casuística estudada, não foi encontrada associação entre a reutilização de introdutores vasculares e a OAR precoce e tardia em pacientes submetidos a cateterismo cardíaco.

BACKGROUND: Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is a clinically silent complication of transradial catheterization but may predispose to hand ischemia. Factors associated with this complication are the diameter of catheters and sheaths, the dose of heparin, repeated transradial procedures and the type of compressive dressing applied. The objective of this study was to evaluate if there is an association between reused hydrophilic vascular introducers and RAO. METHODS: Patients undergoing transradial catheterization were randomized to receive brand new introducers (Group I - GI) or reprocessed introducers (Group II - GII). The presence of RAO was evaluated at 24 hours (early) and day 30 (late) with the reverse Barbeau test. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-eight patients were assigned to GI (n = 100) and GII (n = 128). Mean age was 60.1 ± 10.6 years vs. 59.4 ± 10.9 years (P = 0.64), 49% vs. 35.2% (P = 0.03) were female and 25% vs. 27.3% (P = 0.70) were diabetic. An total early RAO incidence of 10.5% and a late RAO incidence of 9.1% were observed. Ten GI patients (10%) had early RAO when compared to 14 (19.9%) in GII (χ² = 0.05; HR: 1.09; P = 0.82). On the 30-day follow-up RAO was observed in 6 GI patients (7.5%) when compared to 11 GII patients (10.4%) (χ² = 0.45; HR = 1.38; P = 0.50). CONCLUSIONS: In our study no association was found between reused vascular introducers and early and late RAO in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.

Two dislodged and crushed coronary stents: treatment of two simultaneously dislodged stents using crushing techniques

Coronary stent dislodgement is a rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. We report a rare case of dislodgement of two intracoronary stents. On withdrawal of two balloon catheters, one with a guide wire was mechanically distorted from the left main (LM) to the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD) while the other was dislodged from the LM to the ostial left circumflex artery. The stent in the LAD could not be retrieved into the guide catheter using a Goose neck snare, because it was caught on a previously deployed stent at the mid LAD. A new stent was quickly deployed from the LM to the proximal LAD, because the patient developed cardiogenic shock. Both stents, including a distorted and elongated stent, were crushed to the LM wall. Stent deployment and crushing may be a good alternative technique to retrieving a dislodged stent.