Aortic valvuloplasty under echocardiographic guidance in a minor infant at a national referral center in Peru: case report.

Aortic valve stenosis is a congenital heart defect that causes a fixed left ventricular outflow obstruction with a progressive course. Symptomatology in neonates and young infants resembles congestive heart failure. In addition, the diagnosis of this condition is made by imaging, through echocardiography. On the other hand, treatment can be surgical or interventional under fluoroscopic guidance, depending on the hospital in which it is performed. We describe the case of a minor infant patient who presented severe aortic valve stenosis; however, the fluoroscopy equipment was not available at the time of the emergency to perform the appropriate procedure, therefore, an aortic valvuloplasty was performed under echocardiographic guidance without complications.

Balloon Aortic Valvuloplasty in the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Era.

As the population continues to grow, and life expectancy has increased, aortic stenosis (AS) has become the most common valvular disease requiring surgical treatment. The evolution of valve replacement therapies has progressed significantly since 1960. In the last 20 years, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been a game changer, and has potential to become the standard of care. Despite uncertain prognosis benefits, balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) can be useful in a broad range of patients with AS, as well as being a bridging therapy to valve replacement, or as a destination therapy, besides its role in TAVI procedures. This review describes the contemporary role of BAV in AS treatment, and focuses on technical improvements that reframe BAV as an effective tool in a variety of clinical scenarios. One of these improvements is transradial BAV, either with the conventional approach of BAV or applying the bilateral technique with two balloons.

Ring Fracture of Brazilian Aortic Valve Bioprostheses Using Non-Compliant High-Pressure Transcatheter Balloon, an Ex Vivo Test

ABSTRACT Introduction: Aortic valve bioprostheses ring fracture in valve-in-valve procedures has shown low complication rates and presents as an option in the treatment of patients at high risk for conventional surgery, avoiding high transvalvular gradients, which are associated with increased mortality. Some prostheses available in the market cannot be fractured. In an ex vivo test, the possibility of ring fracture of aortic valve bioprostheses produced in Brazil when submitted to radial force application using a high-pressure non-compliant balloon was evaluated. Methods: One unit of each aortic valve bioprosthesis model, sizes 19 and 21 mm, produced by Brazilian companies (Braile Biomédica, Cardioprótese, and Labcor), was used. In the experiment, a non-compliant high-pressure balloon (Atlas®-Gold), 1 mm larger than the external diameter of the prosthesis, was positioned inside the valve annulus and inflated gradually aiming to fracture the prosthesis. Fracture pressures and photographic and radiological images of the prostheses before and after test were recorded. Results: All prostheses were fractured. In the models with metal ring, the fracture pressures were between 23 and 25 atm. In the other prostheses, the rupture occurred between 10 and 13 atm. No deformations in the structure were observed, which could potentially damage the aortic root. Conclusion: All the Brazilian prostheses evaluated were fractured, although the presence of a metal ring in the prosthesis framework increases the pressure required for fracture. The information obtained helps in the planning of valve-in-valve procedures in patients with aortic valve bioprostheses.

Ring Fracture of Brazilian Aortic Valve Bioprostheses Using Non-Compliant High-Pressure Transcatheter Balloon, an Ex Vivo Test.

INTRODUCTION: Aortic valve bioprostheses ring fracture in valve-in-valve procedures has shown low complication rates and presents as an option in the treatment of patients at high risk for conventional surgery, avoiding high transvalvular gradients, which are associated with increased mortality. Some prostheses available in the market cannot be fractured. In an ex vivo test, the possibility of ring fracture of aortic valve bioprostheses produced in Brazil when submitted to radial force application using a high-pressure non-compliant balloon was evaluated. METHODS: One unit of each aortic valve bioprosthesis model, sizes 19 and 21 mm, produced by Brazilian companies (Braile Biomédica, Cardioprótese, and Labcor), was used. In the experiment, a non-compliant high-pressure balloon (Atlas®-Gold), 1 mm larger than the external diameter of the prosthesis, was positioned inside the valve annulus and inflated gradually aiming to fracture the prosthesis. Fracture pressures and photographic and radiological images of the prostheses before and after test were recorded. RESULTS: All prostheses were fractured. In the models with metal ring, the fracture pressures were between 23 and 25 atm. In the other prostheses, the rupture occurred between 10 and 13 atm. No deformations in the structure were observed, which could potentially damage the aortic root. CONCLUSION: All the Brazilian prostheses evaluated were fractured, although the presence of a metal ring in the prosthesis framework increases the pressure required for fracture. The information obtained helps in the planning of valve-in-valve procedures in patients with aortic valve bioprostheses.

[Outcomes of percutaneous balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty in pulmonary valve stenosis in the pediatric population in a single center, Lima - Peru]. / Resultados de la valvuloplastia percutánea con balón en la estenosis valvular pulmonar en población pediátrica en el Instituto Nacional Cardiovascular - INCOR, Lima - Perú.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure and outcomes during follow-up. Methods: 80 patients with pulmonary valvular stenosis who underwent percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty between January 2014 and December 2019 are described. Demographic, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic characteristics of the procedure were evaluated. Follow-up included clinical, echocardiographic parameters, pulmonary regurgitation severity, and residual pulmonary gradient at each cutoff point. Results: The age range was 2 years (interquartile range: 10.5 months - 6 years), and the predominant sex was male with 56.2%. The transvalvular pulmonary gradient decreased from 61.7 mmHg +- 21.2 to 17 mmHg (interquartile range: 11-26 mmHg). The immediate success rate was 90%. Follow-up time showed a median of 21 months (interquartile range: 5-47.5 months). All patients at follow-up showed some degree of pulmonary insufficiency at each cutoff point; 17% of the cases at the end of their follow-up were found to have severe insufficiency. Three cases of long-term restenosis were found (3.8%), and 6 (7.5%) were admitted for valvuloplasty surgery or pulmonary valve replacement. The complications reported reached 10% of cases, two patients were admitted to surgery during the procedure for major complications. A significant association was found with severe pulmonary insufficiency at the end of follow-up and ring/balloon ratio. Conclusions: Percutaneous transluminal valvuloplasty with balloon is an effective technique in the treatment of pulmonary valvular stenosis, with reported complications but with good results during follow-up.

Comparison of early and long-term follow-up results of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement

SUMMARY BACKGROUND: Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement have been the treatment options for mitral stenosis for several years, however, studies that compare these two modalities are very rare in the literature. ObjectIve: In this article, we aim to investigate the comparison of clinical results of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement. Methods: 527 patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis, treated with percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty or mitral valve replacement (276 patients with percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and 251 patients with mitral valve replacement) from 1991 to 2012 were evaluated. The demographic characteristics, clinical, echocardiographic and catheterization data of patients were evaluated retrospectively. The results of early and late clinical follow-up of patients after percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement were also evaluated. Results: The mean follow-up time of the percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty group was 4.7 years and, for the mitral valve replacement-group, it was 5.45 years. The hospital stay of the percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty group was shorter than that of the mitral valve replacement group (2.02 days vs 10.62 days, p<0.001). The hospital mortality rate of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement were 0% and 2% respectively (p=0.024). In the percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty group, early postprocedural success rate was 92.1%. The event-free survival of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty and mitral valve replacement was found to be similar. While reintervention was higher in percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty-group (p<0.001), mortality rate was higher in mitral valve replacement-group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty seems to be more advantageous than mitral valve replacement due to low mortality rates, easy application of the procedure and no need for general anesthesia.

Resultados del tratamiento de la estenosis aórtica en niños de un Hospital Universitario

RESUMEN Introducción: La estenosis aórtica es relativamente frecuente en niños. El objetivo de este trabajo fue de caracterizar los resultados y la evolución de esta patología luego del manejo quirúrgico y percutáneo. Material y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes de cero a 19 años, tratados de estenosis aórtica subvalvular, valvular y supravalvular, en el Hospital de Clínicas, entre 1998 y 2019. Fueron excluidos los casos asociados a otras lesiones congénitas. Resultados: Fueron tratados 20 pacientes, edad de 3 días a 17 años, predominio masculino (80%). La estenosis fue valvular en 65% de los casos, subvalvular 20%, supravalvular 5% y múltiple en 10%. El 61% de los valvulares recibió tratamiento percutáneo, y los demás valvuloplastia quirúrgica. En el seguimiento, la tasa libre de reintervención fue de 47% a 10 años; el 50% de ellos tiene insuficiencia valvular aórtica moderada a severa. De los 13 casos de estenosis valvular, tratados percutánea o quirúrgicamente, 4 están aguardando recambio valvular. De 4 pacientes con estenosis subvalvular, 3 tienen insuficiencia aórtica leve, y gradiente medio de 20 mmHg. De dos pacientes con estenosis supravalvular, uno quedó con estenosis residual importante. En cuanto a clase funcional, todos los pacientes se encuentran en grados 1 y 2 de la escala de NYHA. No se presentaron complicaciones inmediatas en los sometidos a procedimientos percutáneos o quirúrgicos. Fallecieron dos pacientes (10.5%). Conclusiones: La estenosis aórtica afecta principalmente la región valvular, y el tratamiento tanto quirúrgico como percutáneo permiten aliviar la obstrucción hasta el momento de un reemplazo valvular.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Aortic stenosis is relatively common in children. The objective of this study was to characterize the results and clinical course of this pathology after surgical and percutaneous management. Material and methods: This was a retrospective study of patients aged 0 to 19 years, treated for subvalvular, valvular, and supravalvular aortic stenosis, at Hospital de Clínicas, between 1998 and 2019. Cases associated with other congenital lesions were excluded. Results: Twenty patients were treated, age from 3 days to 17 years, male predominance (80%). The stenosis was valvular in 65% of the cases, subvalvular 20%, supravalvular 5% and multiple in 10%. 61% of the valve recipients received percutaneous treatment, and the other surgical valvuloplasty. At follow-up, the free reoperation rate was 47% at 10 years; 50% of them have moderate to severe aortic valve regurgitation. Of the 13 cases of valve stenosis, treated percutaneously or surgically, 4 are awaiting valve replacement. Of 4 patients with subvalvular stenosis, 3 have mild aortic regurgitation and a mean gradient of 20 mmHg. Of two patients with supravalvular stenosis, one was left with significant residual stenosis. Regarding functional class, all patients are in grades 1 and 2 of the NYHA scale. There were no immediate complications in those undergoing percutaneous or surgical procedures. Two patients (10.5%) died. Conclusions: Aortic stenosis mainly affects the valve region, and both surgical and percutaneous treatment allow the obstruction to be relieved until the time of valve replacement.

Valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón: experiencia en el Cardiocentro de Santiago de Cuba / Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty: experiences at the Cardiocentro in Santiago de Cuba

RESUMEN Introducción: La valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón actualmente es el primer procedimiento terapéutico que se contempla en el mundo desarrollado para los pacientes con estenosis mitral reumática e indicación para ello, y se realiza en el Cardiocentro de Santiago de Cuba desde julio de 2008. Objetivos: Describir los resultados de la valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón en los pacientes estudiados. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional y descriptivo, unicéntrico, que incluyó a 91 pacientes tratados mediante este procedimiento en el Cardiocentro de Santiago de Cuba, desde julio de 2008 hasta junio de 2019. Se evaluaron variables clínico-epidemiológicas, ecocardiográficas y hemodinámicas, así como el resultado inmediato del procedimiento. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes jóvenes (60,4% entre 15-44 años), del sexo femenino (86,8%), con antecedentes de fiebre reumática (48,4%), en clase funcional III (64,8%) de la NYHA (New York Heart Association) y en ritmo sinusal (86,8%). Se logró un aumento promedio del área valvular de más del doble (0,99 vs. 2,12 cm2) del valor inicial y una reducción de la presión auricular mayor de 50% (25,0 vs.11, 76 mmHg), lo que permitió evaluar de satisfactorio el tratamiento en el 95,6% de los pacientes. Se identificó una asociación significativa (Prueba de Fisher ≤ 0,05) entre la puntuación de Wilkins ≤ 8 y el resultado satisfactorio del procedimiento. Conclusiones: Los resultados de la aplicación de la valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón en el centro fueron satisfactorios y congruentes con los referidos nacional e internacionalmente.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty has flourished as a mainstream therapy (mostly in developed countries) for treating patients with medical indication and those suffering from rheumatic mitral stenosis. This procedure is performed at the Cardiocentro in Santiago de Cuba since July 2008. Objectives: To describe the results of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty in the study participants. Methods: A descriptive, single-centered and observational study including 91 patients treated by this procedure was conducted at the Cardiocentro in Santiago de Cuba from July 2008 to June 2019. Clinical/epidemiological, echocardiographic and hemodynamic variables were assessed, as well as immediate procedure outcomes. Results: Young individuals (60.4% between 15-44 years), female (86.8%), with a history of rheumatic fever (48.4%), NYHA (New York Heart Association) functional class III (64.8%) and sinus rhythm (86.8%) predominated. An average increase in valve area of over double (0.99 vs. 2.12 cm2) the initial value and a reduction in atrial pressure of more than 50% (25 vs. 11.76 mmHg) was achieved; thus evidencing that the treatment was effective in 95.6% of the patients. A significant association (Fisher Test ≤ 0.05) was identified between Wilkins score ≤ 8 and satisfactory outcome of the procedure. Conclusions: The results of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty in the medical center were successful and consistent with those achieved nationally and internationally.

Balloon rupture during aortic valvuloplasty with compliant balloon: predictors and outcomes.

Objectives of the study were the prevalence and clinical consequences of balloon rupture with compliant balloons in balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV). Compliant low-profile balloons have been developed to reduce access site complications. Made by thinner materials, these balloons are more prone to rupture. This is a single-center retrospective analysis (2016-2018) of patients undergoing BAV with compliant balloons. Baseline echocardiography and computed tomography (CT) were analyzed. Best cutoff point for calcium score was assessed. Long-term mortality was analyzed with Kaplan-Maier. In vitro test was performed. Rupture occurred in 30/90 (33%) of BAVs independent of risk factors, surgical risk and frailty scores. Patients experiencing rupture had increased mean gradient [53.5 (44-64) vs 44 (35-49) mmHg, p < 0.05] and reduced aortic valve area [0.61 (0.46-0.76) vs 0.76 (0.64-0.83) mm2, p < 0.05]. Valve calcium score on CT > 2686 AU was more frequent in the rupture group (41% vs 10%, p < 0.05) and more patients in the third tertile of calcium score experienced rupture (75% vs 23% vs 41% for second and first tertile, p < 0.05). Median gradient reduction from baseline was similar among groups [30 (20-50) vs 30 (17-39) mmHg]. No patient with rupture had any complication. One-month and long-term mortality were similar (rupture 0% vs 3.5% no rupture from 1 month). In vitro test required more volume and strength to rupture the balloon than used in BAV. Balloon rupture is frequent in BAV using compliant balloons, occurs with more severe aortic stenosis, does not affect BAV efficacy and does not impair outcomes.

Valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea en la estenosis aórtica severa del adulto: indicaciones y morbimortalidad. Análisis del registro de valvuloplastias aórticas de un centro cardiovascular universitario / Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty in severe adult aortic stenosis: indications, morbidity and mortality. Analysis of the aortic valvuloplasty registry of an university cardiovascular center / Valvoplastia aórtica percutânea na estenose aórtica adulta grave: indicações e morbimortalidade. Análise do registro de valvoplastia aórtica do um centro cardiovascular da universidade

Resumen: Introducción: la estenosis aórtica severa es una enfermedad frecuente, y la sustitución valvular es el único tratamiento eficaz. La valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea (VAP) tiene beneficios transitorios y su indicación está restringida a pacientes inestables como terapia puente o paliativa. A nivel nacional existe escasa evidencia sobre los resultados de esta técnica. Objetivo: determinar la indicación, eficacia, complicaciones y mortalidad de las VAP realizadas en nuestro centro entre enero de 2006 y setiembre de 2018. Secundariamente, determinar la terapia definitiva aplicada y el tiempo transcurrido hasta la misma. Método: estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo. Incluyó los pacientes a los que se le realizó VAP en el período. Se revisaron las historias clínicas para extracción de variables. Las variables cualitativas se presentan en valor absoluto y porcentaje; cuantitativas en mediana e intervalo intercuartilo. Se utilizó prueba de Wilcoxon para variables dependientes, tomando p<0,05 como nivel de significación. Para sobrevida se realizaron curvas de Kaplan-Meier. Protocolo aprobado por el Comité de Ética institucional. Resultados: 28 casos; 17 (60,7%) mujeres; la mediana de edad fue de 79,5 años (IQ 73-85,5). El objetivo de la VAP fue: puente a la decisión en 11 casos (39,2%), al tratamiento definitivo en 12 (42,8%) y paliativo en 5 (18%). La VAP fue considerada exitosa en 57,1% de los casos. Las indicaciones más frecuentes fueron: insuficiencia cardíaca refractaria en 10 casos (35,7%) y shock cardiogénico en 9 (32,1%). Diecinueve pacientes fallecieron (67,8%). La sobrevida fue 59 días (IQ 5-412). Seis pacientes recibieron tratamiento definitivo (cuatro recibieron implante valvular percutáneo y dos cirugía cardíaca). El tiempo de la VAP al implante percutáneo fue 233 días y 47 días a la cirugía abierta. Conclusiones: las indicaciones más frecuentes de la VAP fueron puente a tratamiento definitivo y decisión. La VAP fue exitosa en más del 50% de los casos. Las complicaciones mayores marcaron el pronóstico. La mortalidad fue elevada en el seguimiento. Un número reducido accedió al tratamiento definitivo (predominando el implante percutáneo).

Summary: Introduction: severe aortic stenosis is frequent and valve replacement is the only effective treatment. Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty has transient benefits, and its indication is restricted to unstable patients as a bridge to other treatment or palliative therapy. In our country, there is a few evidence of this technique. Objective: to determine the indication, efficacy, complications and mortality of percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty performed in our center between January 2006 - September 2018. Secondarily, to determine which was the definitive therapy and it´s delay. Method: retrospective and descriptive study. All patients who received valvuloplasty during the study period were included. Clinical histories were reviewed. Qualitative variables were presented in absolute value and percentage; the quantitative ones, in median and interquartile interval. Wilcoxon test was applied to dependent variables, p <0.05. Kaplan Meier curves were performed to analize survival. Protocol was approved by ethics committee. Results: 28 cases. 17 (60.7%) were female. Average age was 79.5 years (IQ 73-85.5). The objective of percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty was bridge therapy to decision in 11 cases (39.2%), bridge to definitive treatment in 12 (42.8%) and palliative in 5 (18%). The most frequent indications were: refractory heart failure in 10 cases (35.7%) and cardiogenic shock in 9 (32.1%). Valvuloplasty was successful in 57.1% of cases. 19 patients died (67.8%). The median survival was 59 days (IQ 5-412). 6 patients received definitive treatment (4 percutaneous implantation and 2 open cardiac surgery). The time from percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty to percutaneous aortic valve implantation was 233 days and 47 days to open surgery. Conclusions: the most frequent indications for percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty were bridge therapy to definitive treatment and decision. Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty was successful in more than 50% of cases. Major complications determined the prognosis. Mortality was high at follow-up. A small number acceded to definitive treatment (predominantly percutaneous implantation).

Resumo: Introdução: a estenose aórtica grave é frequente, a substituição valvar é o único tratamento efetivo. A valvoplastia aórtica percutânea tem resultados transitórios, sua indicação é restrita a pacientes instáveis como ponte ou terapia paliativa. Em nível nacional, há poucas evidências. Objetivo: determinar a indicação, eficácia, complicações e mortalidade das valvoplastias aórticas percutâneas realizadas em nosso centro entre janeiro de 2006 a setembro de 2018. Determinar secundariamente a terapia definitiva e o tempo até ela. Método: estudo retrospetivo, descritivo. Todos os pacientes que receberam valvuloplastia aórtica percutânea durante o período do estudo foram incluídas. Histórias clínicas foram revisadas. As variáveis qualitativas são apresentadas em valor absoluto e percentagem; os quantitativos em intervalo mediano e interquartil. O teste de Wilcoxon foi utilizado para variáveis dependentes, p <0,05. Para sobrevivência, as curvas de Kaplan Meier foram realizadas. Protocolo aprobado pelo comitê de ética. Resultados: 28 casos. 17 (60,7%) eram mulheres e a idade média foi de 79,5 anos (QI 73-85,5). O objectivo da valvoplastia foi ponte para decisão terapêutica em 11 casos (39,2%), ponte para tratamento definitivo em 12 casos (42,8%) e paliativo em 5 casos (18%). As indicações mais frequentes foram: insuficiência cardíaca refratária em 10 casos (35,7%) e choque cardiogênico em 9 casos (32,1%). A valvuloplastia foi bem sucedida em 57.1% dos casos. 19 pacientes morreram (67,8%). A mediana de sobrevivência é de 59 dias (IQ 5-412). 6 pacientes receberam tratamento definitivo (4 implantes percutâneos e 2 por cirurgia cardíaca aberta). A mediana do tempo de valvoplastia aórtica percutânea para implante de valva aórtica percutânea foi de 233 dias e cirurgia aberta de 47 dias. Conclusões: as indicações mais frequentes para valvoplastia aórtica percutânea foram a terapia ponte para tratamento e para decisão definitiva. A valvoplastia aórtica percutânea foi bem sucedida em mais de 50%. As complicações principais marcaram o prognóstico. A mortalidade foi alta no follow-up. Um pequeno número concordou com o tratamento definitivo (predominantemente implante percutâneo).

Intravascular ultrasound is a key diagnostic tool in subclavian vein varicosity.

Varicose veins of the neck are far less common than lower extremity varicosities. Often, neck varicosities can be a sign of a more central venous obstruction. Here, we describe a patient with no risk factors for central venous obstruction who presented with a recurrent left subclavian vein (LSV) varicosity causing significant pain and discomfort that was recalcitrant to repeated phlebectomy. Venography revealed a dilated LSV with no significant venographic stenosis in the LSV or brachiocephalic vein. Intravascular ultrasound subsequently revealed a culprit hypertrophied valve that was successfully treated with valvuloplasty, resulting in durable resolution of the patient's symptoms, suggesting that intravascular ultrasound was essential in the diagnosis and treatment of this hypertrophied valve.

Utilidad de la valvuloplastia en el paciente de alto riesgo con estenosis aórtica severa. Reporte de caso / Valvuloplasty usefulness in the high risk patient with severe aortic stenosis. Case report

Resumen: La estenosis aórtica severa (EAoS) se asocia a comorbilidad pulmonar en un porcentaje considerable de pacientes, siendo complejo decidir sobre el tratamiento definitivo; al poseer elevado riesgo quirúrgico surgen dudas sobre la futilidad del procedimiento. Con la aparición y el desarrollo del implante percutáneo aórtico transcatéter, la valvuloplastia aórtica con balón (VAB) ha resurgido, se ha modificado y juega un rol central en el manejo de los pacientes con EAoS sintomática de muy alto riesgo por inestabilidad hemodinámica o comorbilidad severa. Se reporta un caso clínico que evidencia la utilidad de la VAB como herramienta diagnóstica y como puente a una terapia definitiva.

Summary: Severe aortic stenosis is associated with pulmonary comorbidity in a significant percentage of patients, being difficult to define the definitive therapy, considering they are high surgical risk patients where doubt about the futility of the procedure arises. With the appearance and development of the transcatheter aortic valve implant, balloon aortic valvuloplasty has re-emerged, has been modified and plays a central role in the management of patients with symptomatic high-risk severe aortic stenosis due to hemodynamic instability or severe comorbidity. We report a clinical case which demonstrates the usefulness of the balloon aortic valvuloplasty as a diagnostic tool and as a bridge to a definitive therapy.

Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty: clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with success in a Tertiary-Care Hospital in Mexico / Valvuloplastía mitral percutánea con balón: factores clínicos y ecocardiográficos asociados con el éxito en un hospital de tercer nivel en México

Abstract: Introduction: Prevalence of mitral stenosis of rheumatic etiology has diminished. However, in Mexico there are some regions where still represents a health issue in productive population. Percutaneous valvuloplasty has become the treatment of choice in those with favorable anatomy. When successful immediate results are obtained, adequate long-term results are predicted. Objective: To determine the clinical and echocardiographic factors associated with the immediate success of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty. Material and methods: A comparative and retrospective cross-sectional, observational study. Clinical records of patients treated with percutaneous valvuloplasty between 2000-2016 were reviewed. We studied clinical, echocardiographic, and procedural factors associated with immediate success. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used with SPSS v2.4 package. Results: A total of 363 patients. Female gender 287 (79.1%), age 50.8 ± 10.9 years. Functional class II 218 (60.1%). Atrial fibrillation 201 (55.4%). Previous procedure 78 (21.5%). Wilkins score 8-10: 228 (62.8%). Previous moderate mitral insufficiency 20 (5.5%). Inoue Balloon used in 343 (94.5%). We achieved success in 309 (85.1%), 26 had complications (7.16%), one death. We observed an increased number of complications in patients with pulmonary hypertension (> 60 mmHg) (p = 0.01), transvalvular gradient (mean > 10 mmHg) (p = 0.049), previous moderate mitral regurgitation (p = 0.001), and procedures with double-balloon (p = 0.001). We identified as unfavorable predictors of the procedure with statistical significance: Wilkins score 8-10 points (OR 2.6, 95% CI, 1.3-5.2) and previous moderate mitral regurgitation (OR 3.3, 95% CI, 1.28-8.93). Conclusion: Similar results were obtained with previous studies (success, complications and mortality). Only the Wilkins score greater than 8 points and the previous moderate mitral regurgitation were unfavorable predictors for the success of the procedure.

Resumen: Introducción: La prevalencia de estenosis mitral de etiología reumática ha disminuido. Sin embargo, en México hay regiones donde aún representa un problema de salud en la población productiva. La valvuloplastia percutánea se ha convertido en el tratamiento de elección en pacientes con anatomía favorable. Cuando se obtienen resultados inmediatos exitosos, se predicen resultados adecuados a largo plazo. Objetivo: Determinar factores clínicos y ecocardiográficos asociados con el éxito inmediato de la valvuloplastia mitral percutánea. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional, transversal, comparativo y retrospectivo. Se revisaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes tratados con valvuloplastia percutánea entre 2000-2016. Estudiamos los factores clínicos, ecocardiográficos y de procedimiento asociados con el éxito inmediato. Se utilizaron estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales con el paquete SPSS v2.4. Resultados: Un total de 363 pacientes. Género femenino 287 (79.1%), edad 50.8 ± 10.9 años. Clase funcional II 218 (60.1%). Fibrilación auricular 201 (55.4%). Procedimiento previo 78 (21.5%). Puntaje de Wilkins 8-10: 228 (62.8%). Insuficiencia mitral moderada previa 20 (5.5%). Se utilizó Balón Inoue en 343 (94.5%). Logramos éxito en 309 (85.1%), 26 tuvieron complicaciones (7.16%), una muerte. Observamos un mayor número de complicaciones en pacientes con hipertensión pulmonar (> 60 mmHg) (p = 0.01), gradiente transvalvular (media > 10 mmHg) (p = 0.049), regurgitación mitral previa moderada (p = 0.001) y procedimientos con doble globo (p = 0.001). Se identificaron como predictores desfavorables del procedimiento con significación estadística: puntuación de Wilkins 8-10 puntos (OR 2.6, IC 95%, 1.3-5.2) y regurgitación mitral moderada previa (OR 3.3, IC 95%, 1.28-8.93). Conclusión: Se obtuvieron resultados similares con estudios previos (éxito, complicaciones y mortalidad). Sólo el puntaje de Wilkins mayor de 8 puntos y la regurgitación mitral moderada previa fueron factores predictivos desfavorables para el éxito del procedimiento.

Uso de la valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón en un hospital provincial / Use of the mitral percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty in a provincial hospital

Se realizó un estudio observacional y descriptivo, que incluyó a 46 pacientes tratados con valvuloplastia mitral percutánea con balón, en el Hospital Provincial Saturnino Lora Torres de Santiago de Cuba, desde julio de 2008 hasta diciembre de 2015, a fin de evaluar el resultado inmediato del proceder empleado. Se analizaron variables clinicoepidemiológicas, ecocardiográficas y hemodinámicas. Predominaron los pacientes jóvenes de 15-44 años (63,0 por ciento), las mujeres con antecedentes de fiebre reumática (87,0 por ciento), la clase III, según la clasificación funcional de la insuficiencia cardiaca (76,1 por ciento) y el ritmo sinusal (84,8 por ciento). Se logró un aumento del área valvular superior a 100,0 por ciento y una reducción de la presión auricular de aproximadamente 50,0 por ciento. El tratamiento fue satisfactorio en 93,5 por ciento de los afectados. Hubo asociación significativa entre los pacientes con una escala de Wilkins de 8 o menos y el sexo femenino, con un resultado favorable de dicho proceder

An observational and descriptive study that included 46 patients treated with mitral percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty, was carried out in Saturnino Lora Torres Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, from July, 2008 to December, 2015, in order to evaluate the immediate result of the procedure that was used. Clinical epidemiological, echocardiographic and hemodynamic variables were analyzed. There was a prevalence of the young patients aged 15-44 (63.0 percent), women with history of rheumatic fever (87.0 percent), the class III, according to the functional classification of heart failure (76.1 percent) and the sinus rhythm (84.8 percent). A 100.0 percent increase from the upper valvular area and an approximately 50.0 percent reduction of the atrial pressure were achieved. The treatment was satisfactory in 93.5 percent of the affected patients. There was a significant association between the patients with an 8 or less Wilkins scale and the female sex, with a favorable result of the procedure

Valvuloplastia mitral percutánea de emergencia en un paciente con edema pulmonar refractario / Emergency percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty in a patient with refractory pulmonary oedema

Resumen La estenosis mitral usualmente es causada por fiebre reumática. A pesar de ser una patología poco frecuente en los países desarrollados, es prevalente en los países en vía de desarrollo, donde aproximadamente dos tercios de la población mundial vive, haciendo de esta condición, una enfermedad valvular común. Es importante considerar la estenosis mitral en el diagnóstico diferencial de los pacientes con edema agudo de pulmón cardiogénico refractario y la valvuloplastia mitral percutánea de emergencia como el tratamiento definitivo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente femenino de 21 años, con edema agudo de pulmón cardiogénico refractario, secundario a estenosis mitral muy severa de origen reumático, tratado con valvuloplastia percutánea con balón de urgencia. Se realiza una revisión sobre la estenosis mitral y se examina el tratamiento con especial énfasis en los casos publicados en la literatura de valvuloplastia mitral percutánea de emergencia.

Abstract Mitral valve stenosis is usually caused by rheumatic fever. Although it is an uncommon disease in developed countries, it is prevalent in developing countries where approximately two-thirds of the world population lives, making this condition a common valve disease. It is important to consider mitral stenosis in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute refractory cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, and emergency percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty as the definitive treatment. The case is presented of a 21 year-old female with acute refractory cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, secondary to a very severe mitral stenosis of rheumatic origin, and who was treated with an urgent percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty. A review of mitral stenosis is presented, and the treatment is examined, with special emphasis on cases of emergency percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty published in the literature.

Net atrioventricular compliance is an independent predictor of cardiovascular death in mitral stenosis.

OBJECTIVES: Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is a progressive disease, and risk of death may persist despite relief of the obstruction. Net atrioventricular compliance (Cn) modulates the overall haemodynamic burden of the MS and may be useful in predicting cardiovascular death after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV). METHODS: A total of 427 patients (mean age 50±16 years, 84% female) with severe MS undergoing PMV were enrolled. Doppler-derived Cn was estimated at baseline using a previously validated equation. The primary endpoint was late cardiovascular death, and the secondary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality, mitral valve (MV) replacement or repeat PMV over a median follow-up of 31 months (IQR: 7.8-49.2 months). RESULTS: At baseline, 209 patients (49%) were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III or IV. During follow-up, 49 patients died (41 cardiovascular deaths), 50 underwent MV replacement and 12 required repeat PMV, with an overall incidence of cardiac mortality and adverse events of 4.1 deaths and 11.1 events per 100 patient-years, respectively. Low baseline Cn was a strong predictor of both cardiac death (adjusted HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.86) and composite endpoint (adjusted HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.91) after adjusting for clinical factors, baseline pulmonary artery pressure, tricuspid regurgitation severity, right ventricular function and immediate procedural haemodynamic data. The inclusion of Cn in a model with conventional parameters resulted in improvement in 5-year cardiovascular mortality risk prediction. CONCLUSIONS: Baseline Cn is a strong predictor of cardiovascular death in patients with MS undergoing PMV, independent of other prognostic markers of decreased survival in MS, including baseline patient characteristics and postprocedural data. Cn assessment therefore has potential value in evaluation of cardiovascular mortality risk in the setting of MS.

Impact of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty on left ventricular function in patients with mitral stenosis assessed by 3D echocardiography.

BACKGROUND: The status of intrinsic left ventricular (LV) contractility in patients with isolated rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) has been debated. The acute changes in loading conditions after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) may affect LV performance. We aimed to examine the acute effects of PMV on LV function and identify factors associated with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) changes, and determinants of long-term events following the procedure. METHODS: One hundred and forty-two patients who underwent PMV for symptomatic rheumatic MS (valve area of 0.99±0.3cm2) were prospectively enrolled. LV volumes and LVEF were measured by three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography. Long-term outcome was a composite endpoint of death, mitral valve (MV) replacement, repeat PMV, new onset of atrial fibrillation, and stroke. RESULTS: The mean age was 42.3±12.1years, and 125 patients were women (88%). After PMV, LVEF increased significantly (51.4 vs 56.5%, p<0.001), primary due to a significant increase in LV end-diastolic volume (65.8mL vs 67.9mL, p=0.002), and resultant increase in the stroke volume (33.9mL vs 39.6mL, p<0.001). Changes in cardiac index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were associated with LVEF changes after PMV. During a mean follow-up period of 30.8months, 28 adverse clinical events were observed. Postprocedural mitral regurgitation, MV area, and mean gradient were independent predictors of composite endpoints. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with rheumatic MS, PMV resulted in a significant improvement in LV end-diastolic volume, stroke volume and consequently increased in LVEF. Changes in cardiac index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were associated with LVEF changes after PMV. The predictors of long-term adverse events following PMV were post-procedural variables, including mitral regurgitation, valve area, and mean gradient.

Valvuloplastia pulmonar en menores de 21 años / Pulmonary valvuloplasty in patients under the age of 21

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre la proporción de las reintervenciones en los pacientes con la estenosis valvular pulmonar y la presencia de un gradiente transvalvular pulmonar final ≥25 mm Hg en pacientes menores de 21 años. Metodología: Estudio unicéntrico observacional, tipo corte transversal de período. Población: Pacientes entre 0 meses y 21 años en quienes se realizó valvuloplastia pulmonar con balón. Análisis: Descripción del grupo y análisis en los subgrupos dados por el gradiente final transvalvular ≥25 mm Hg y la reintervención. Se realizaron pruebas chi2 de Pearson, para las variables categóricas. Para las variables continuas se realizaron pruebas U de Mann-Whitney. Se realizó una regresión logística para definir la asociación entre las variables y el desenlace a la reintervención. Resultados: En el grupo con el gradiente final ≥25 mm Hg, el 86,67% eran lactantes. Se encontró que en el grupo con el gradiente final < 25 mm Hg la mediana del gradiente inicial fue de 42 mm Hg IQ 25-75%: (34-59) en comparación con el grupo con el gradiente final ≥25 mm Hg, la mediana del gradiente inicial fue 70 mm Hg IQ 25-75%: (41-86). Al analizar los grupos por la variable reintervención, se observó que el cambio en la relación de las presiones entre el ventrículo derecho y el ventrículo izquierdo se asoció con menor necesidad de reintervención. OR 0,04; IC 95% (0,002-0,7). El tener un gradiente final después de la intervención ≥25 mm Hg se asoció a reintervención. OR 14,5; IC 95% (2,8-75). Conclusiones: Un gradiente final transvalvular pulmonar ≥25 mm Hg se asoció a mayor probabilidad de reintervención.

Abstract Motivation: To determine the association between the proportion of reoperations in patients with pulmonary valvular stenosis and the presence of a final pulmonary transvalvular gradient of ≥25 mm Hg in patients under the age of 21. Methods: Observational single-centre study, cross-sectional period type. Population: Patients between 0 months and 21 years of age who underwent balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty. Analysis: Description of the group and analysis in the subgroups given by the final transvalvular gradient of ≥25 mm Hg and reoperation. Pearson's chi-squared test was conducted for categorical variables. For the continuous variables, the Mann-Whitney U test was conducted. Logistic regression was used to define the association between variables and reoperation outcome. Results: In the group with the final gradient of ≥25 mm Hg, 86.67% were infants. The group with the final gradient of < 25 mm Hg the median of the initial gradient was 42 mm Hg IQ 25-75%: (34-59) in comparison to the group with the final gradient ≥25 mm Hg, the median of the initial gradient was 70 mm Hg IQ 25-75%: (41-86). By analysing both groups with the reoperation variable, it was observed that the change in the relationship of the pressured between the right ventricle and the left ventricle was associated with a lower need for reoperation. OR 0.04; CI 95% (0.002-0.7). Having a final gradient of ≥25 mm Hg after the surgery was associated to reoperation. OR 14.5; CI 95% (2.8-75). Conclusion: Having a final pulmonary transvalvular gradient of ≥25 mm Hg was associated to a higher probability of reoperation.

Initial Results and Long-Term Follow-up of Percutaneous Mitral Valvuloplasty in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) is an attractive therapeutic approach in patients with mitral stenosis. The aim of this study was to assess the immediate and long-term clinical, echocardiographic and haemodynamic outcomes of PMV in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension (PAH). METHODS: Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty was performed in 157 consecutive patients; 60 patients (38.2%) had significant PAH defined as baseline pulmonary artery mean pressure (PAMP) ≥ 30mm Hg (Group 1) and 97 patients (61.8%) had PAMP ≤ 30mmHg (Group 2). Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), mortality, need for mitral valve replacement or new PMV, and valve restenosis were evaluated during follow-up. RESULTS: Mean age was 44.2 years and 88.5% (139 patients) were women. Primary success was achieved in 79.6% of the patients (125 patients) without differences between the groups. Mitral valve area increased from 0.90cm2 to 1.76cm2, PASP fell from 57mmHg to 35mmHg in Group 1 and from 38mmHg to 30mmHg in Group 2. Median PASP in Group 1 was 35, 32, 36, 38 and 34mmHg at 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months. There were no significant differences in mitral valve area, PASP and clinical status between the groups. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of patients with mitral stenosis and PAH. A significant decrease in pulmonary pressure was observed after valvuloplasty. Although there was a gradual decrease of MVA at long-term follow-up, most patients remained asymptomatic and PASP was stable.

Valor predictivo del EuroSCORE II y el STS score en pacientes sometidos a cirugía cardiaca valvular por el abordaje mínimamente invasivo / EuroSCORE II and STS score predictive value in patients undergoing minimally invasive heart valve surgery

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar el EuroSCORE II y el STS score como predictores de la morbilidad y la mortalidad postoperatoria en pacientes que van a la cirugía cardiaca valvular aislada por el abordaje mínimamente invasivo. Metodología: Estudio observacional de una cohorte retrospectiva de 273 pacientes consecutivos desde noviembre de 2010 hasta noviembre de 2014. A todos se les calculó el EuroSCORE II y el STS score. La discriminación fue medida con el área bajo la curva ROC y la calibración fue evaluada con el test de Hosmer-Lemeshow (HL). Resultados: La capacidad discriminatoria fue similar, para el EuroSCORE II con un área bajo la curva ROC fue de 0.68 (IC 95%: 0.512 - 0.856), p = 0.039 y la del STS score fue de 0.650 (IC 95%: 0.453 - 0.848), p = 0.107. El poder de calibración para la mortalidad general del EuroSCORE II fue de p = 0.28 y del STS fue de p = 0.27. Ambos puntajes subestimaron el riesgo de la mortalidad. La morbilidad y la mortalidad fue mayor cuando se implementó la técnica mínimamente invasiva y disminuyó progresivamente a 1.4% (n = 1) al cuarto año del estudio. Conclusiones: El valor predictivo del EuroSCORE II y el STS fue similar. El desarrollo y la validación de las escalas locales ayudarían a mejorar la estratificación de riesgo en nuestra población y reflejar verdaderamente nuestra práctica clínica. Se requieren estudios multicéntricos con mayor tamaño de la muestra para estimar la utilidad de las escalas disponibles y para proponer una propia para este tipo de intervención.

Abstract Motivation: Assessing EuroSCORE II and STS score values as predictors for postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing minimally invasive heart valve surgery. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 273 consecutive patients since November 2010 and November 2014. EuroSCORE II and STS score values were collected for all of them. Discrimination was measured with the area under the ROC curve and calibration was assessed by means of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test (HL). Results: Discrimination was similar for both tests, EuroSCORE II showed an area under the ROC curve of 0.68 (CI 95%: 0.512-0.856), p = 0.039 and STS score was 0.650 (IC 95%: 0.453- 0.848), p = 0.107. Calibration power for general mortality was p = 0.28 for EuroSCORE II and p = 0.27 for STS. Both scores underestimated mortality risks. Morbidity and mortality were higher when the minimally invasive technique was implemented and it was gradually reduced to 1.4% (n = 1) by the fourth year of the study. Conclusions: Predictive value of EuroSCORE II and STS was similar. Development and validation of local Scales would help improve risk stratification within our population group and truly reflect our clinical practice. Collaborative studies with larger sample sizes are required in order to estimate the usefulness of the available scales and to suggest a scale of its own for this type of surgery.