The Impact of Frailty Components and Preoperative Mechanical Cardiac Support Changes with Time after Heart Transplantation.

BACKGROUND: Frailty has been proven to be associated with mortality after orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT). The aim of our study was to determine the impact of frailty on mortality in the current era using pretransplant mechanical cardiac support (MCS). METHODS: We retrospectively calculated the frailty scores of 471 patients undergoing OHT in a single institution between January 2012 and August 2022. The outcome was all-cause mortality. RESULTS: The median survival time was 1987 days (IQR: 1487 days) for all patients. In total, 266 (56.5%) patients were categorized as nonfrail, 179 (38.0%) as prefrail, and 26 (5.5%) as frail. The survival rates were 0.73, 0.54, and 0.28 for nonfrail, prefrail, and frail patients, respectively. The frailty score was associated with mortality [HR: 1.34 (95% CI: 1.22-1.47, p < 0.001)]. Among the components of the frailty score, age above 50 years, creatinine ≥ 3.0 mg/dL or prior dialysis, and hospitalization before OHT were independently associated with mortality. Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVAD) were associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality [AHR: 1.80 (95% CI: 1.01-3.24, p = 0.047)]. CONCLUSIONS: The components of the frailty score were not equally associated with mortality. Frailty and pretransplant MCS should be included in the risk estimation.

Evolution of Cardiogenic Shock Management and Development of a Multidisciplinary Team-Based Approach: Ten Years Experience of a Single Center.

Background: The management of cardiogenic shock (CS) after ACS has evolved over time, and the development of a multidisciplinary team-based approach has been shown to improve outcomes, although mortality remains high. Methods: All consecutive patients with ACS-CS admitted at our CICU from March 2012 to July 2021 were included in this single-center retrospective study. In 2019, we established a "shock team" consisting of a cardiac intensivist, an interventional cardiologist, an anesthetist, and a cardiac surgeon. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Results: We included 167 patients [males 67%; age 71 (61-80) years] with ischemic CS. The proportion of SCAI shock stages from A to E were 3.6%, 6.6%, 69.4%, 9.6%, and 10.8%, respectively, with a mean baseline serum lactate of 5.2 (3.1-8.8) mmol/L. Sixty-six percent of patients had severe LV dysfunction, and 76.1% needed ≥ 1 inotropic drug. Mechanical cardiac support (MCS) was pursued in 91.1% [65% IABP, 23% Impella CP, 4% VA-ECMO]. From March 2012 to July 2021, we observed a significative temporal trend in mortality reduction from 57% to 29% (OR = 0.90, p = 0.0015). Over time, CS management has changed, with a significant increase in Impella catheter use (p = 0.0005) and a greater use of dobutamine and levosimendan (p = 0.015 and p = 0.0001) as inotropic support. In-hospital mortality varied across SCAI shock stages, and the SCAI E profile was associated with a poor prognosis regardless of patient age (OR 28.50, p = 0.039). Conclusions: The temporal trend mortality reduction in CS patients is multifactorial, and it could be explained by the multidisciplinary care developed over the years.

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for respiratory and cardiac support in neonates: a single center experience.

Objective: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced life support that has been utilized in the neonate for refractory respiratory and circulatory failure. Striving for the best outcomes and understanding optimal surgical techniques continue to be at the forefront of discussion and research. This study presents a single-center experience of cervically cannulated neonatal patients on V-A ECMO, a description of our cannulation/decannulation techniques and our patient outcomes. Methods: Single center retrospective review of neonates who received neck V-A ECMO support from January 2012 to December 2022. The data and outcomes of the patients were retrospectively analyzed. Results: A total of 78 neonates received V-A ECMO support. There were 66 patients that received ECMO for respiratory support, the other 12 patients that received ECMO for cardiac support. The median duration of ECMO support was 109 (32-293) hours for all patients. During ECMO support, 20 patients died and 5 patients discontinued treatment due to poor outcome or the cost. A total of 53 (68%) patients were successfully weaned from ECMO, but 3 of them died in the subsequent treatment. Overall 50 (64%) patients survived to hospital discharge. In this study, 48 patients were cannulated using the vessel sparing technique, the other 30 patients were cannulated using the ligation technique. We found no significant difference in the rates of normal cranial MRI at discharge between survivors with and without common carotid artery ligation. Conclusion: We achieved satisfactory outcomes of neonatal ECMO in 11-year experience. This study found no significant difference in early neuroimaging between survivors with and without common carotid artery ligation. The long-term neurological function of ECMO survivors warranted further follow-up and study.

Multimodality Imaging in Advanced Heart Failure for Diagnosis, Management and Follow-Up: A Comprehensive Review.

Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within AHF scenarios. Multimodality imaging, encompassing echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), nuclear imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CCT), stands as a cornerstone in the care of patients with both short- and long-term mechanical support devices. These techniques facilitate precise device selection, placement, and vigilant monitoring, ensuring patient safety and optimal device functionality. In the context of orthotopic cardiac transplant (OTC), the role of multimodality imaging remains indispensable. Echocardiography offers invaluable insights into allograft function and potential complications. Advanced methods, like speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), empower the detection of acute cell rejection. Nuclear imaging, CMR and CCT further enhance diagnostic precision, especially concerning allograft rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This comprehensive imaging approach goes beyond diagnosis, shaping treatment strategies and risk assessment. By harmonizing diverse imaging modalities, clinicians gain a panoramic understanding of each patient's unique condition, facilitating well-informed decisions. The aim is to highlight the novelty and unique aspects of recently published papers in the field. Thus, this review underscores the irreplaceable role of multimodality imaging in elevating patient outcomes, refining treatment precision, and propelling advancements in the evolving landscape of advanced heart failure management.

Cardiac rehabilitation in a heart-failure patient using customized "cardiac support net" treatment: a case report.

At our hospital, we are conducting the "Clinical Study of a Patient-Specific Cardiac Support Net for Dilated Cardiomyopathy (jRCTs042180025)", a multi-facility clinical study of a customized cardiac support net (CSN). Here, we describe the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) of a heart failure (HF) patient after CSN treatment. The patient was a 65-year-old man who exhibited dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) because of left ventricular non-compaction; his New York Heart Association status was class III. In November 2019, he received CSN treatment. The early CR program was adapted for this patient, and his postoperative course was uneventful. Functional measurements showed improved leg-muscle strength (before treatment: 61.4% BW; at discharge: 77.3% BW). During long-term follow-up, the patient's exercise tolerance increased, as shown by 6-minute walk distance (before treatment: 576 m; long-term follow-up: 600 m) and peak oxygen uptake (before treatment: 12.5 mL/kg/min; long-term follow-up: 13.3 mL/kg/min). In the 2 years since discharge, the patient has not been hospitalized for HF. This report is the first to show that the CSN can be used to perform a CR program in a DCM patient without significant functional decline.

Keep the Right in Mind-A Focused Approach to Right Ventricle-Predominant Cardiogenic Shock.

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a highly lethal condition despite many efforts and new interventions. Patients presenting with a rapid onset of hemodynamic instability and subsequent collapse require prompt and appropriate multimodality treatment. Multiple etiologies can lead to heart failure and subsequent shock. As the case prevalence of heart failure increases worldwide, it is of great importance to explore all manners and protocols of presentation and treatment present. With research primarily focusing on CS due to cardiac left-sided pathology, few assessments of right-sided pathology and the subsequent clinical state and treatment have been conducted. This review aims to present an in-depth assessment of the currently available literature, assessing the pathophysiology, presentation and management of CS patients due to right heart failure.

Use of cardiopulmonary bypass machine in intensive care unit as a short term mechanical circulatory support for recovery of cardiac function.

INTRODUCTION: Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is used as a bridge to recovery of cardiac function following completion of congenital cardiac surgeries where there is failure to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or severe low cardiac output states in the post operative periods. Although ECMO is a well-established form of mechanical circulatory support, the associated cost can be a huge financial burden on families. We are an ECMO center and use the same in post operative congenital cardiac surgeries for mechanical cardiovascular support if needed. However, a significant proportion of the children, whom we operate, are funded by government aides. The resources are limited in such circumstances. If needed, we use the same CPB circuit and cannulae used in the Operating Room (OR) and support them at a significantly lower cost compared to ECMO. METHODS: We report our experience of using conventional CPB machine as a short-term bridge to recovery of cardiac function in Intensive Care Unit where there was limitation of funds. Essentially same CPB circuit with roller pump is retained, by omitting cardiotomy suckers. We use D901 Lilliput 1 Oxygenator (Sorin, Italy) for children <5 kg and D902 Lilliput 2 (Sorin, Italy) Oxygenator for children >5 Kg. RESULTS: We supported nine patients on CPB between March 2019 and December 2021. During this time, 1392 congenital cardiac surgeries were performed. We could wean off three patients (33.3%) and discharge two patients (22.2%). Our support time ranged from 21 h to 60 h with a median of 48 h. Beyond 48 h of support, we experienced several CPB induced complications in our cohort. CONCLUSION: In resource-limited settings, conventional CPB machines can be used for short-term cardiac support. Although results may not be comparable to using ECMO, some patients can be definitely salvaged, who would otherwise die in the absence of institution of mechanical circulatory support.

Successful ventricular tachycardia ablation in a patient with limited vascular and left ventricular endocardial access due to multiple mechanical cardiac support devices.

A 48-year-old male with ischemic cardiomyopathy was admitted because of cardiogenic shock due to incessant ventricular tachycardia (VT). Despite the introduction of multiple mechanical cardiac support (MCS) devices, his hemodynamics were unstable; therefore, VT ablation was performed. Due to the limited vascular and left ventricle (LV) access with the multiple MCS devices, only the left femoral artery and vein were accessible. In addition, the transseptal approach as an LV access was difficult because of the MitraClip (Abbott Park, IL, USA). Posterior papillary muscle-origin VT was successfully treated via a transaortic approach under the MCS. After the VT ablation, the patient recovered from the MCS. Learning objective: Mechanical cardiac support (MCS) devices are critical during ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. However, the ablation strategy for cases with limited access due to multiple MCS devices has not been established. In this case, VT was successfully treated via a transaortic approach using intracardiac echocardiography. The number of cases requiring VT ablation for patients with limited vascular and LV endocardial access would increase; therefore, the accumulation of those cases is required to find a better strategy.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): What We Need to Know.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of circulatory support used in patients with refractory cardiac and/or respiratory failure. The main role of such support is to allow the lungs and heart to rest and heal while providing adequate oxygenation to vital organs. During extracorporeal support, the venous blood removed is decarboxylated, oxygenated, warmed, and infused back into the circulation. Physicians and nursing staff should be familiar with ECMO in order to provide the best care for critically ill patients. The aim of this paper is to review the technical aspects, indications, contraindications, complications, and management of both veno-venous (VV) and veno-arterial (VA) ECMO.

El soporte del miocardio / Myocardial support

RESUMEN Objetivo: El músculo cardíaco no puede estar anatómicamente libre en el tórax y sin un soporte para cumplir con su función hemodinámica. Por tanto, se analizó la posibilidad de la existencia de un punto de apoyo que actuara a modo de palanca. Material y métodos: Se utilizaron: 1) disección cardíaca en diez corazones bovinos jóvenes (dos años) (800-1000 g); 2) disección cardíaca en ocho corazones humanos: un embrión de 23 semanas de gestación; uno de 10 años, 250 g; y seis adultos, peso medio 300 g. La banda miocárdica se desenrolló en su totalidad. Las piezas extraídas fueron analizadas por anatomía e histología. Se completó la investigación con estudios de imágenenes radiograficas simples, resonancia nuclear magnética y tomografia computada. Resultados: En investigaciones anatómicas hemos encontrado en todos los corazones humanos y bovinos estudiados un núcleo subyacente al trígono derecho de estructura histológica ósea-condroide-tendinosa. El análisis microscópico reveló en corazones bovinos una matriz osteocondral trabecular (fulcro). En todos los corazones humanos se encontró que el fulcro se halla formado por tejido condroide. En esta estructura, no descrita por otros autores, tienen inserción muscular el origen y el final de las fibras miocárdicas. Las técnicas con imágenes confirmaron su existencia. Conclusiones: El fulcro cardíaco encontrado en la investigación anatómica de corazones humanos y bovinos aclararía sobre el necesario punto de apoyo del músculo miocárdico para completar sus movimientos de torsión.

ABSTRACT Objective: The cardiac muscle cannot be anatomically free in the thorax. Therefore, it was thought and analyzed that there could be a myocardial support point (lever fulcrum). Material and Methods: Cardiac dissection in ten young (two years old) bovine hearts (800-1000 g); and in eight human hearts ( one embryo, 4 g; one 10 years old, 250 g; and six adult, mean weight 300 g) were performed. The myocardial band was unrolled in its entirety. The extracted pieces were analyzed by anatomy and histology. A study with magnetic resonance images, tomography and simple radiology was also carried out. Results: In anatomical investigations we have found in all the human and bovine hearts studied a nucleus underlying the right trigone of bone, chondroid or tendon histological structure. The microscopic analysis revealed in bovine hearts a trabecular osteochondral matrix (fulcrum). In the ten year old human heart and in the fetus, a central area of the fulcrum formed by chondroid tissue was found. Histology found a tendon matrix in adult human hearts. This fulcrum is attached to the myocardium and would serve to support both the origin and the end of the myocardium. The images showed evidence of the cardiac fulcrum. Conclusions: The cardiac fulcrum found in the anatomical investigation of bovine and human hearts would clarify the point of support of the myocardial muscle to complete its rotating function.

Timing of Impella implantation and outcomes in cardiogenic shock or high-risk percutaneous coronary revascularization.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the role of the microaxial percutaneous mechanical circulatory support device (Impella® pump) implantation pre-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus during/after PCI in cardiogenic shock (CS) and high-risk PCI populations. BACKGROUND: A better understanding of the safety and effectiveness of the Impella and the role of timing of this support initiation in specific clinical settings is of utmost clinical relevance. METHODS: A total of 365 patients treated with Impella 2.5/CP in the 17 centers of the IMP-IT Registry were included. Through propensity-score weighting (PSW) analysis, 1-year clinical outcomes were assessed separately in CS and HR-PCI patients, stratified by timing of Impella support. RESULTS: Pre-procedural insertion was associated with an improvement in 1-year survival in patients with CS due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) treated with PCI (p = .04 before PSW, p = .009 after PSW) and HR-PCI (p < .01 both before and after PSW). Among patients undergoing HR-PCI, early Impella support was also associated with a lower rate of the composite of mortality, re-hospitalization for heart failure, and need for left-ventricular assist device/heart transplantation at 1-year (p = .04 before PSW, p = .01 after PSW). Furthermore, Impella use during/after PCI was associated with an increased in-hospital life-threatening and severe bleeding among patients with AMI-CS receiving PCI (7 vs. 16%, p = .1) and HR-PCI (1 vs. 9%, p = .02). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggested a survival benefit and reduced rates of major bleeding when a pre-PCI Impella implantation instead of during-after procedure was used in the setting of HR-PCI and AMI-CS.

Therapeutic approach for global myocardial injury using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells by cardiac support device in rats.

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have been considered a promising therapeutic approach to cardiovascular disease. This study intends to compare the effect of BMSCs through a standard active cardiac support device (ASD) and intravenous injection on global myocardial injury induced by isoproterenol. BMSCs were cultured in vitro, and the transplanted cells were labeled with a fluorescent dye CM-Dil. Isoproterenol (ISO) was injected into the rats; 2 weeks later, the labeled cells were transplanted into ISO-induced heart-jury rats through the tail vein or ASD device for 5 days. The rats were sacrificed on the first day, the third day, and the fifth day after transplantation to observe the distribution of cells in the myocardium by fluorescence microscopy. The hemodynamic indexes of the left ventricle were measured before sacrificing. H&E staining and Masson's trichrome staining were used to evaluate the cardiac histopathology. In the ASD groups, after 3 days of transplantation, there were a large number of BMSCs on the epicardial surface, and after 5 days of transplantation, BMSCs were widely distributed in the ventricular muscle. But in the intravenous injection group, there were no labeled-BMSCs distributed. In the ASD + BMSCs-three days treated group and ASD + BMSCs -five days-treated group, left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), the maximum rate of left ventricular pressure rise (+dP/dt), the maximum rate of left ventricular pressure decline (-dP/dt) increased compared with model group and intravenous injection group (P < 0.05). By giving BMSCs through ASD device, cells can rapidly and widely distribute in the myocardium and significantly improve heart function.

Device-based treatment options for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a syndrome with an unfavorable prognosis, and the number of the patients continues to grow. Because there is no effective therapy established as a standard, including pharmacological treatments, a movement to develop and evaluate device-based therapies is an important emerging area in the treatment of HFpEF patients. Many devices have set their target to reduce the left atrial pressure or pulmonary capillary wedge pressure because they are strongly related to the symptoms and prognosis of HFpEF, but the methodology to achieve it varies based on the devices. In this review, we summarize and categorize these devices into the following: (1) interatrial shunt devices, (2) left ventricle expander, (3) electrical therapy, (4) left ventricular assist devices, and (5) mechanical circulatory support devices under development. Here, we describe the features and specifications of device-based therapies currently under development and those at more advanced stages of preclinical testing. Advantages and limitations of these technologies, with insights on their safety and feasibility for HFpEF patients, are described.

In-Hospital and Mid-Term Outcomes of ECMO Support During Coronary, Structural, or Combined Percutaneous Cardiac Intervention in High-Risk Patients - A Single-Center Experience.

INTRODUCTION: Evidence regarding the impact of prophylactic implantation of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) during coronary or structural procedures is limited. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the in-hospital and medium term outcomes of ECMO support in complex percutaneous coronary or structural intervention. METHODS: The present is an observational prospective study including consecutive patients who underwent to prophylactic ECMO implantation for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), structural or combined interventions between July 2018 and July 2020 in Maria Pia Hospital GVM Care & Research, Turin, Italy. Primary endpoints were in-hospital and medium term all-cause death. Secondary endpoints were vascular complication, bleeding and procedural success. RESULTS: 27 patients were included with a mean age of 80 ± 6 years, 10 (37%) being diabetics and 19 (70%) with severe left ventricle dysfunction. Mean Logistic Euroscore was 28.7 ± 18.7. Seven patients (26%) underwent complex coronary revascularization, 7 (26%) combined PCI + TAVI, 5 (19%) combined PCI + Mitraclip, 5 (19%) TAVI alone and finally 3 (11%) combined TAVI + Mitraclip. The procedural success was 96%, with only one in-hospital death due to major vascular complication at the ECMO vascular access. At a mean follow-up of 11 ± 6.8 months 4 deaths were recorded (3 from not cardiovascular causes). CONCLUSIONS: Prophylactic use of ECMO may be beneficial for high risk patients undergoing complex combined coronary/structural percutaneous interventions with good in-hospital and mid-term outcomes in term of safety and procedural success.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Mechanical Cardiac Support.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical cardiac support (MCS) is a lifesaving therapy option in patients with heart failure and other medical disorders. However, there is an associated risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). The goal of this study was to determine GIB incidence and associated risk factors. METHODS: All patients at one institution from 2009 to 2018 under durable and nondurable support were retrospectively reviewed for GIB during their MCS period. Clinical records were evaluated for patient demographics, GIB characteristics, and interventions. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to compare patient groups. RESULTS: A total of 427 patients were reviewed, with 111 (25.9%) patients representing 218 episodes of GIB during our study period. The incidence rate from support initiation to GIB was 44.9% by 6 months and 60.6% in 12 months, occurring at a mean of 216.7 days. Higher rates of bleeding were found in patients with hypertension (82% vs 71.5%; P = .03) and diabetes mellitus (62.2% vs 38.3%; P < .0001), as well as pulmonary (48.7% vs 35.4%; P = .014), hepatic (21.6% vs 10.4%; P = .003), and renal disease (48.7% vs 37.3%; P = .037). Endoscopy revealed an upper GI source in 56% (n = 123) of bleeds. The most common etiology of bleeding included angiodysplasia/vascular malformation (35.7%). Therapeutic intervention was performed in 109 (50%) cases, with only 1 surgical intervention. DISCUSSION: Overall, GIB can be a significant adverse event in patients under mechanical cardiac support, so proper management of anticoagulation and early endoscopy evaluation remains of great importance.

Chugging to silent machines: development of mechanical cardiac support.

The concept of a mechanical device to support failing hearts arose after the introduction of the heart lung bypass machine pioneered by Gibbon. The initial devices were the pulsatile paracorporeal and total artificial heart (TAH), driven by noisy chugging pneumatic pumps. Further development moved in three directions, namely short-term paracorporeal devices, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), and TAH. The paracorporeal pumps moved in the direction of electrically driven continuous-flow pumps as well as catheter-mounted intracardiac pumps for short-term use. The LVAD became the silent durable electric, implantable continuous-flow pumps. The TAH remains a pneumatically driven pulsatile device with limited application, but newer technology is moving toward electrically operated TAH. The most successful pumps are the durable implantable continuous-flow pumps now taken over by the 3rd-generation pumps for the bridge to transplant and long-term use with significantly improved survival and quality of life. But bleeding including gastrointestinal bleeding, strokes, and percutaneous driveline infections exist as troublesome issues. Available data supports less adverse hemocompatibility of HeartMate 3 LVAD. Eliminations of the driveline will significantly improve the freedom from infections. Restoring physiological pulsatility to continuous-flow pumps is in the pipeline. Development of appropriate right VAD, miniaturization, and pediatric devices is awaited. Poor cost-effectiveness from the cost of LVAD needs to be resolved before mechanical cardiac support becomes universally available as a substitute for heart transplantation.

Pharmacokinetic Advantage of ASD Device Promote Drug Absorption through the Epicardium.

PURPOSE: Due to low therapeutic efficacy and severe adverse reaction of systemic administration for coronary heart disease (CHD) therapy, we designed a novel local target delivery system, called Active hydraulic ventricular Support Drug delivery system (ASD). This study aims to investigate the potential advantages of ASD compared to intrapericardial (IPC) injection and factors affecting drug absorption through epicardium. METHODS: Liposoluble, water soluble and viscous solutions of cyanine 5 (Cy5) fluorescent dye were delivered individually through ASD and IPC in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and then tissues were isolated and observed by in vivo imaging system. Atria and ventricles of the heart were taken for the paraffin section and observed under a fluorescence microscope. RESULTS: The fluorescence intensity of Cy5 injected by ASD distributed in the heart was significantly higher than IPC injection. Whereas, the fluorescence signal spread in other tissues such as lung, liver, spleen, and kidney of ASD groups was much weaker. Moreover, when choosing liposoluble and viscous Cy5, the intensity of the heart turned stronger and fluorescence dye distributed in other tissues was lesser. CONCLUSIONS: The application of ASD device may provide a promising route of drug delivery for CHD. Furthermore, increasing viscosity of the solution and liposolublity of the drug was beneficial to facilitate drug absorption through the epicardium.

Sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) therapy following ingestion of isopropanol in a pediatric patient.

Introduction: Cardiovascular collapse due to large ingestions of isopropanol is rare. We report a case of a pediatric patient who had severe CNS and respiratory depression and cardiovascular collapse and was not hemodynamically stable enough to undergo hemodialysis.Case report: A 14-year-old 50 kg male was initially reported to have ingested an unknown amount of HEET® gas line antifreeze about 1 h prior to emergency department (ED) arrival. Despite severe CNS and respiratory depression and cardiovascular collapse, the patient was not initially acidotic. The patient did have an elevated osmolar gap. Approximately 6 h post-ingestion relatives updated the history to reflect that the product was in fact called ISO-HEET® which contains 99% isopropanol. Based on these concerns, a serum isopropanol and acetone levels were obtained that resulted at 475 and 75 mg/dL, respectively. Nephrology was consulted and it was decided to start the patient on sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) which commenced 11 h post-ingestion. Serum and ultrafiltrate concentrations for isopropanol and acetone decreased to normal range over the course of SLED therapy.Discussion: SLED was instituted in this patient primarily for the treatment of elevated serum lactate, isopropanol, and acetone concentrations. The patient's systemic clearance was calculated as 26.9 mL/min. During SLED therapy, the patient was able to clear isopropanol and acetone at 41.21 mL/min and 29.74 mL/min, respectively. SLED therapy is a viable treatment option when a patient is hemodynamically unstable and hemodialysis is not an option.

CytoSorb® hemoadsorption and mechanical circulatory support in a newborn with refractory shock after congenital heart surgery.

Refractory cardiogenic and vasoplegic shock after congenital heart surgery is a threatening condition leading to high morbidity and mortality. Control of hemodynamic and inflammatory response is fundamental in medical strategy. We report the case of a newborn with cardiogenic and vasoplegic shock secondary to cardiopulmonary bypass for atrioseptostomy and prostaglandin treatment in the context of hypoplastic left heart syndrome, successfully treated with a combination of mechanical circulatory support and cytokine hemoadsorption column (CytoSorb®). Vasopressor support was weaned during the time of treatment without multiple organ failure occurrence. The use of CytoSorb® cartridge inserted in an extra-corporeal circuit even in a newborn is easy and feasible, as long as some precautions are considered. Routine monitoring of drugs levels is mandatory during the use of the cartridge and immediately after.

Technical Feasibility and Design of a Shape Memory Alloy Support Device to Increase Ejection Fraction in Patients with Heart Failure.

PURPOSE: Heart failure is increasingly prevalent in the elderly. Treatment of patients with heart failure aims at improving their clinical condition, quality of life, prevent hospital (re)admissions and reduce mortality. Unfortunately, only a select group of heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction are eligible for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy where 30-40% remain non-responders and need left ventricular support. The aim of this study is to investigate if a shape memory alloy (SMA) is able to increase the ejection fraction of a mono-chamber static heart model by 5%. METHODS: A pediatric ventilation balloon was used as a heart model (mono-chamber). Flexinol®, a SMA, was placed around the heart model in multiple configurations and activated using pulse width modulation techniques to determine influence of diameter and configuration on volume displacement. Furthermore, pressure within the heart model was measured with a custom-made pressure sensor. RESULTS: SMA with a diameter of 0.38 mm, placed in a spiral shape and activated with a duty cycle of 80% and a frequency of 50/min gave the highest ejection fraction increase of 3.5%. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the feasibility of volume displacement in a static heart model by activation of SMA-wires. Configuration, duty cycle, frequency, pulse intervals and diameter were identified as important factors affecting the activation of SMA-wires on volume displacement. Future research should include the use of parallel SMA-wires, prototype testing in dynamic or ex vivo bench models.