Takotsubo syndrome after concomitant surgical ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: A clinical case and review.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a reversible form of acute heart failure often triggered by physical or emotional stressors. Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) has become a prevalent approach for treating mitral valve pathologies, yet its association with TTS remains underexplored. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a female patient undergoing MIMVS with concomitant Maze ablation, who developed TTS postoperatively. Despite a normal coronary angiogram, transient coronary spasm due to an imbalance in autonomic nervous activity was considered. The patient exhibited preoperative risk factors including sequelae of cerebral infarction. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Female patients undergoing MIMVS with preoperative risk factors such as cerebral infarction sequelae may be at increased risk of developing TTS postoperatively. CONCLUSION: The InterTAK Diagnostic score, in conjunction with the International Expert Consensus Document on Takotsubo Syndrome, aids in promptly diagnosing TTS and differentiating it from acute coronary syndrome. Further research is warranted to elucidate the relationship between MIMVS and TTS.

Pre- and post-surgery: advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning models for enhancing patient management in infective endocarditis.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a severe infection of the inner lining of the heart, known as the endocardium. It is characterized by a range of symptoms and has a complicated pattern of occurrence, leading to a significant number of deaths. IE poses significant diagnostic and treatment difficulties. This evaluation examines the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models in addressing information extraction (IE) management. It focuses on the most recent advancements and possible applications. Through this paper, we observe that AI/ML can significantly enhance and outperform traditional diagnostic methods leading to more accurate risk stratification, personalized therapies as well and real-time monitoring facilities. For example, early postsurgical mortality prediction models like SYSUPMIE achieved 'very good' area under the curve (AUROC) values exceeding 0.81. Additionally, AI/ML has improved diagnostic accuracy for prosthetic valve endocarditis, with PET-ML models increasing sensitivity from 59% to 72% when integrated into ESC criteria and reaching a high specificity of 83%. Furthermore, inflammatory biomarkers such as IL-15 and CCL4 have been identified as predictive markers, showing 91% accuracy in forecasting mortality, and identifying high-risk patients with specific CRP, IL-15, and CCL4 levels. Even simpler ML models, like Naïve Bayes, demonstrated an excellent accuracy of 92.30% in death rate prediction following valvular surgery for IE patients. Furthermore, this review provides a vital assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of such AI/ML models, such as better-quality decision support approaches like adaptive response systems on one hand, and data privacy threats or ethical concerns on the other hand. In conclusion, Al and ML must continue, through multi-centric and validated research, to advance cardiovascular medicine, and overcome implementation challenges to boost patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.

Concomitant tricuspid valve regurgitation repair in patients with minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: a single-centre experience in Vietnam.

Background: This study aims to present the early and mid-term outcomes of combining minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) with tricuspid valve repair (TVR) at the authors' centre. Methods: From January 2017 to March 2022, our centre treated a total of 67 patients with both MIMVS and TVR. Among these patients, 41 were women (61.2%), and 26 were men (38.8%). The average Euro SCORE II was 2.67±1.54%, and the patients had an average follow-up period of 25.45±16.2 months. Results: Pre-discharge echocardiography revealed no or mild TR in 82.8% of cases. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 4.5%, with 3 deaths. Five-year survival was 94.5%±3.2%. In patients with mild or moderate preoperative tricuspid regurgitation (TR), the 5-year survival rate was 95.7%±4.3%, while for those with severe TR, it was 93.7%±4.5% (P=0.947). Conclusions: The authors' 5-year experience demonstrates that the combination of MIMVS and TVR can be routinely performed with favourable perioperative and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing non-high-risk surgery. Additionally, there is no significant difference in five-year survival between the severe TR and mild to moderate TR groups preoperatively.

Concomitant Surgical Ablation for Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery: A Single-Center Experience in Vietnam.

BACKGROUND: This study presents the early and midterm outcomes of combining atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment with minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) at our center. METHODS: From January 2017 to June 2022, our center treated a total of 86 patients with both MIMVS and surgical AF ablation. The patient cohort included 62 women (72.1%) and 24 men (27.9%). The average EuroScore II was 2.64 ± 1.49%, and the patients were followed up for an average period of 46.31 ± 9.84 months. RESULTS: Postoperatively, 95.3% of patients experienced a change in sinus rhythm, and 86.2% were discharged in sinus rhythm. The hospital's mortality rate was 2.3%, with a late mortality rate of 3.5%. Survival analysis revealed an atrial fibrillation-free 5-year follow-up rate of 59.1 ± 9.1%. The 5-year survival rate was 92.7 ± 3.3%. CONCLUSION: Our 5-year experience demonstrates that the combination of MIMVS and surgical AF ablation can be routinely performed with favorable peri- and postoperative outcomes. This reflects our hospital's culture and guidance on patient selection, particularly when adopting minimally invasive approaches for multiple procedures.

Pacemaker implantation after concomitant tricuspid valve repair in patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: Results from the Mini-Mitral International Registry.

Objective: Randomized evidence suggests a high risk of pacemaker implantation for patients undergoing mitral valve (MV) surgery with concomitant tricuspid valve repair (cTVR). We investigated the impact of cTVR on outcomes in the Mini-Mitral International Registry. Methods: From 2015 to 2021, 7513 patients underwent minimally invasive MV with or without cTVR in 17 international centers (MV: n = 5609, cTVR: n = 1113). Propensity matching generated 1110 well-balanced pairs. Multivariable analysis was applied. Results: Patients with cTVR were older and had more comorbidities. Propensity matching eliminated most differences except for more TR in patients who underwent cTVR (77.2% vs 22.1% MV, P < .001). Mean matched age was 71 years, and 45% were male. European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II was still 2.68% (interquartile range [IQR], 0.80-2.63) vs 1.9% (IQR, 1.12-3.9) in matched MV (P < .001). MV replacement (30%) and atrial fibrillation surgery (32%) were similar in both groups. Cardiopulmonary bypass (161 minutes [IQR, 133-203] vs MV: 130 minutes [IQR, 103-166]; P < .001) and crossclamp times (93 minutes [IQR, 66-123] vs MV: 83 minutes [IQR, 64-107]; P < .001) were longer with cTVR. Although in-hospital mortality was similar (cTVR: 3.3% vs MV: 2.2%; P = .5), postoperative pacemaker implantations (9% vs MV: 5.8%; P = .02), low cardiac output syndrome (7.7% vs MV: 4.4%; P = .02), and acute kidney injury (13.8% vs MV: 10%; P = .01) were more frequent with cTVR. cTVR eliminated relevant TR in most patients (greater-than-moderate TR: 6.8%). Multivariable analysis identified MV replacement, atrial fibrillation, and cTVR as risk factors of postoperative pacemaker implantation. Conclusions: cTVR in minimally invasive MV surgery is an independent risk factor for pacemaker implantation in this international registry. It is also associated with more bleeding, low output syndrome, and acute kidney injury. It remains unclear whether technical or patient factors (or both) explain these differences.

Successful surgical management of large pulmonary artery thrombosis in a patient with primary severe mitral regurgitation and complex congenital heart disease: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary artery thrombosis presents a rare and formidable challenge, especially in individuals with untreated complex congenital heart diseases and concurrent valvular abnormalities. PRESENTATION OF CASE: This case details a distinctive instance of pulmonary artery thrombosis in a patient with untreated congenital atrial septal defect, severe pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary aneurysm, valvular heart disease, and triple-positive antiphospholipid antibodies. Collaborative decision-making by a heart team guided the diagnostic and therapeutic processes, resulting in surgical interventions encompassing pulmonary thrombectomy, mitral and tricuspid regurgitation repair, and atrial septal defect closure. DISCUSSION: The case underscores the nuanced management of pulmonary artery thrombosis within the realm of congenital heart disease, highlighting the imperative role of a multidisciplinary approach in achieving accurate diagnoses and timely interventions. The multifaceted treatment strategy implemented further accentuates the need for continual monitoring and personalized interventions in intricate clinical scenarios. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this case emphasizes the complexity of addressing pulmonary artery thrombosis in the context of congenital heart disease. The collaborative efforts of a multidisciplinary team proved pivotal in navigating diagnostic uncertainties and formulating a tailored treatment plan. Ongoing monitoring and personalized strategies remain crucial for optimizing outcomes in such intricate cases.

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: Evidence-Based Practice.

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery remains a pivotal cornerstone, offering established symptomatic alleviation and prognostic advantages for patients grappling with complex multivessel and left main coronary artery diseases. Despite the lucid guidance laid out by contemporary guidelines regarding the choice between CABG and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a notable hesitation persists among certain patients, characterized by psychological reservations, knowledge gaps, or individual beliefs that sway their inclination toward surgical intervention. This comprehensive review critically synthesizes the prevailing guidelines, modern practices, and outcomes pertaining to CABG surgery, delving into an array of techniques and advancements poised to enhance both short-term and enduring surgical outcomes. The exploration encompasses advances in on-pump and off-pump procedures, conduit selection strategies encompassing the bilateral utilization of internal mammary artery and radial artery conduits, meticulous graft evaluation methodologies, and the panorama of minimally invasive approaches, including those assisted by robotic technology. Furthermore, the review navigates the terrain of hybrid coronary revascularization, shedding light on the pivotal roles of shared decision-making and the heart team in shaping treatment pathways. As a comprehensive compendium, this review not only navigates the intricate landscape of CABG surgery but also aligns it with contemporary practices, envisioning its trajectory within the evolving currents of healthcare dynamics.

Adoption of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: single-centre implementation experience in Vietnam.

The adoption of minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) has become a prominent trend in mitral valve procedures. This article emphasizes that the success of the MIMVS program relies not only on effective teamwork but also on comprehensive hospital support and a clearly defined training strategy. Additionally, targeted marketing initiatives that highlight the value of the heart valve centre are crucial for sustaining the program's success and attracting a consistent patient flow. The implementation of these strategies requires diligent execution, consistent maintenance, and continuous improvement to ensure the triumph of the MIMVS program. This article aims to share our experience in implementing MIMVS at our centre, providing valuable insights for centres that have yet to adopt this approach or have low adoption rates. While acknowledging that sharing our centre's experience cannot guarantee success in all centres, customizing the implementation by selecting appropriate features and access points is vital. Each centre may encounter unique challenges, and tailoring the strategy to address specific needs will enhance the effectiveness of the MIMVS program.

Multiple serous membrane effusion caused by primary pericardial mesothelioma.

Primary pericardial mesothelioma is an extremely rare cancer with a short survival prognosis. Clinical symptoms are often atypical, and most patients are diagnosed after surgery or at autopsy. We report a case of a 35-year-old female patient with multiple serous membrane effusion for more than 1 year. The patient underwent pericardial, pleural, and peritoneal fluid drainage many times and underwent many laboratory tests to find the cause; however, there was no definitive diagnosis. She was admitted to the hospital because of shortness of breath, cough, and sputum for 5 days. She underwent extensive pericardiectomy to resolve the dyspnea and pericardial surgery to find the cause of the multiple serous membrane effusion. After surgery, her dyspnea was relieved, and the serous effusion gradually decreased.

Aortic cross-clamp time correlates with mortality in the mini-mitral international registry.

OBJECTIVES: Minimally invasive access has become the preferred choice in mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery. Reported outcomes are at least similar to classic sternotomy although aortic cross-clamp times are usually longer. METHODS: We analysed the largest registry of mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery patients (mini-mitral international registry (MMIR)) for the relationship between aortic cross-clamp times, mortality and other outcomes. From 2015 to 2021, 7513 consecutive patients underwent mini-mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery in 17 international Heart-Valve-Centres. Data were collected according to Mitral Valve Academic Research Consortium (MVARC) definitions and 6878 patients with 1 cross-clamp period were analysed. Uni- and multivariable regression analyses were used to assess outcomes in relation to aortic cross-clamp times. RESULTS: Median age was 65 years (57% male). Median EuroSCORE II was 1.3% (Inpatient Quality Reporting (IQR): 0.80-2.63). Minimally invasive access was either by direct vision (28%), video-assisted (41%) or totally endoscopic/robotic (31%). Femoral cannulation was used in 93%. Three quarters were repairs with 17% additional tricuspid valve surgery and 19% Atrial Fibrillation (AF)-ablation. Cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times were 135 min (IQR: 107-173) and 85 min (IQR: 64-111), respectively. Postoperative events were death (1.6%), stroke (1.2%), bleeding requiring revision (6%), low cardiac output syndrome (3.5%) and acute kidney injury (6.2%, mainly stage I). Statistical analyses identified significant associations between cross-clamp time and mortality, low cardiac output syndrome and acute kidney injury (all P < 0.001). Age, low ejection fraction and emergent surgery were risk factors, but variables of 'increased complexity' (redo, endocarditis, concomitant procedures) were not. CONCLUSIONS: Aortic cross-clamp time is associated with mortality as well as postoperatively impaired cardiac and renal function. Thus, implementing measures to reduce cross-clamp time may improve outcomes.

Severe aortic regurgitation following blunt chest trauma due to home accident.

Aortic valve rupture is a rare manifestation in comparison to cardiac rupture or contusion following blunt chest trauma. We report a case of aortic valve leaflet rupture with severe aortic regurgitation after a fall from a ladder. The aortic valve rupture had been missed in the emergency ultrasound and was only detected on comprehensive echocardiography after failure of weaning from a mechanical ventilator. The patient underwent aortic bioprosthetic valve replacement that dramatically changed the clinical course.