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ABSTRACT: The novel Permanent Life Support (PLS; Maquet, Jostra Medizintechnik AG, Hirrlingen, Germany) as peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support system has been investigated as treatment for patients with refractory cardiogenic shock (CS). Between January 2007 and July 2011, 73 consecutive adult patients were supported on peripheral PLS ECMO system at our institution (55 men; age 60.3 ± 11.6 years, range: 23-84 years). Indications for support were failure to wean from cardiopulmonary bypass in the setting of postcardiotomy (n = 50) and primary donor graft failure (n = 8), post-acute myocardial infarction CS (n = 12), and CS on chronic heart failure (n = 3). Mean support time was 10.9 ± 7.6 days (range: 2-34 days). Overall, 26 (35.6%) patients died on ECMO. Among survivors on ECMO, 44 (60.2%) patients were successfully weaned from support, and three (4.1%) were switched to a mid-long-term ventricular assist device. Thirty-three (45.2%) were successfully discharged. The following variables were significantly different if survivors and nonsurvivors on ECMO were compared: age (P = 0.04), female gender (P < 0.01), cardiopulmonary resuscitation before ECMO (P < 0.01), lactate level before ECMO (P = 0.01), number of platelets, fresh frozen plasma units, and packed red blood cells (PRBCs) transfused during ECMO support (P = 0.03, P = 0.02, and P < 0.01), blood lactate level (P = 0.01), and creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB) relative index 72 h after ECMO initiation (P < 0.001), and multiple organ failure on ECMO (P < 0.01). Stepwise logistic regression identified blood lactate level and CK-MB relative index at 72 h after ECMO initiation, and number of PRBCs transfused on ECMO as significant predictors of mortality on ECMO (P = 0.011, odds ratio [OR] = 2.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11-3.12; P = 0.012, OR = 2.81, 95% CI = 1.026-2.531; and P = 0.012, OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.02-5.21; respectively). Patients with an initial poor hemodynamic status could benefit by rapid peripheral installation of PLS ECMO. The blood lactate level, CK-MB relative index, and PRBCs transfused should be strictly monitored during ECMO support.
Artificial Organs 03/2012; 36(3):E53-61. · 2.00 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Aortic dissection is an evolving process that may require one or several reoperations after its initial repair. We conducted a study to evaluate risk factors and define the incidence and locations of reoperations after surgical correction of acute type A aortic dissection (AAD).
Between 1998 and 2008, 250 consecutive patients (mean age 62.5±12.4 years) underwent surgery for AAD at our institution. Replacement of the ascending aorta was done in 173 cases, composite graft replacement in 61 cases, separate aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement in 2 cases, and arch replacement required by distal repair in 14 cases. Mean follow-up time was 4.7±5.6 years.
Freedom from reoperation was 99%, 82%, and 79% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Twenty-five patients required 25 reoperations at a mean interval of 4.7 years after initial surgery for the correction of AAD. Reoperations included 21 procedures on the proximal aorta (ascending aorta, aortic root, or valve) and 4 procedures on the distal aorta (arch or descending aorta). Cox regression analysis identified the use of gelatin-resorcinol-formaldehyde (GRF) glue (p=0.0270), and nonreplacement of the aortic root at the time of initial AAD repair (p=0.0004), as a significant risk factor for proximal reoperation, and a patent false lumen (p=0.0107) as a significant risk factor for distal reoperation.
A patent false lumen, the use of GRF glue, and aortic root preservation at initial operation influence the risk for surgical correction in patients undergoing surgery for AAD. These patients need long-term follow-up.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 12/2011; 93(2):450-5. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: When patients at high risk for failure of isolated left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support are identified, biventricular assist device implantation is suggested as a primary option. Results of a planned temporary right ventricular mechanical support (RVAD) placement in high-risk LVAD recipients have been reported and analyzed.
Between 2009 and 2011, 10 consecutive adult patients (9 men; age range 31-69 years), with preoperative evidence of moderate to severe biventricular failure, were supported simultaneously with an axial flow HeartMate II (Thoratec Corp., Pleasanton, California) LVAD and a temporary CentriMag (Levitronix LCC, Waltham, Massachusetts) RVAD as a primary option at our institution. Indications for support at implantation were ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy in 6 cases and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy in 4. Planned temporary RVAD insertion was defined as RVAD support placement at the same time as LVAD placement.
Nine patients were successfully weaned from temporary RVAD support after an average time of 18.6 days (range 3-43 days) and discharged from hospital. One patient died due to respiratory failure. RVAD removal was performed through a minimally invasive approach without repeat sternotomy in 6 patients. None of the patients required a permanent RVAD support.
When patients at high risk for failure of isolated LVAD support are identified, temporary biventricular assist device implantation is advised to improve the outcome of such a vulnerable patient population.
Giornale italiano di cardiologia (2006) 12/2011; 12(12):839-45.
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The Journal of heart and lung transplantation: the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation 12/2010; 29(12):1443-4. · 3.54 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: A long-term mechanical biventricular support by HeartWare HVAS third-generation continuous flow pump (HeartWare, Inc, Miramar, FL, USA) was implanted in a Korean patient with a small chest size for treatment of a refractory end-stage heart failure due to an idiopathic dilative cardiomyopathy. We report our experience with a single patient and the early mid-term follow-up results with such a mechanical ventricular support.
Interactive cardiovascular and thoracic surgery 12/2010; 12(3):458-60.
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ABSTRACT: : Video-assisted minimally invasive mitral valve surgery can be performed through different approaches. The aim of the study was to report our early results and compare the external transthoracic aortic clamping with the endoaortic balloon occlusion techniques according to our experience.
: Between January 2000 and March 2010, 138 patients (103 women, aged 58.4 ± 10.2 years) underwent video-assisted mitral valve surgery through a right thoracotomy. Cardiopulmonary bypass was instituted by femoral arterial and bicaval cannulation with active venous drainage and normothermia; cardioplegic arrest achieved with intermittent blood cardioplegia. In group A (93 patients, 68 women, aged 58.8 ± 7.8 years, 72 MV replacement, 21 MV repair), aortic clamping was achieved using the external transthoracic aortic clamp. In group B (45 patients, 35 women, aged 58.1 ± 11.4 years, 33 MV replacement, 12 MV repair), aortic clamping was achieved with endoaortic balloon occlusion.
: Intraoperative procedure-associated problems were experienced in one patient (0.7%) in group A (one conversion to sternotomy for pleural adhesions and bad exposure). At a mean follow-up of 36 ± 18 months, 135 patients (97.8%) were in New York Heart Association class I to II, with satisfactory echocardiographic follow-up. In group A, two patients had noncardiac-related deaths. No perioperative deaths were observed in both groups. There were four (2.8%) transient ischemic attacks and one (0.7%) peripheral ischemic event (group A) during the early postoperative period. Mitral valve repair patients had a 5-year freedom from reoperation of 100% in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding preoperative variables, such as age, sex, New York Heart Association class, and left ventricular ejection fraction (P > 0.05). Postoperative levels of myocardial cytonecrosis enzymes (MB fraction, creatine kinase, and troponine I) as well as operative time, extracorporeal circulation, and aortic cross-clamping times or ventilation and intensive care unit times were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05). More microembolic events were observed in group A than in group B (total 143.4 ± 30.6 per patient vs 78.9 ± 28.6 per patient) by means of continuous automated intraoperative transcranial Doppler evaluations (P < 0.05) applied to part of population.
: Both techniques proved safe and comparable with low risk of morbidity and mortality. Patients undergoing endoclamp technique resulted to be less subject to embolism.
Innovations Technology and Techniques in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery 11/2010; 5(6):413-8.
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ABSTRACT: An approach is reported for right ventricle temporary mechanical support in long-term axial left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients preoperatively judged at high risk of right ventricular (RV) failure. The timing for RV assist device (RVAD) weaning and the technique for its removal through a right mini-thoracotomy are described. This strategy provides a good outcome in LVAD recipients avoiding the risk of immediate postoperative RV failure.
Interactive cardiovascular and thoracic surgery 03/2010; 10(6):847-50.
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ABSTRACT: The excellent results with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have revolutionized the treatment options for end-stage heart failure. The use of pulsatile devices is associated with significant comorbidity and limited durability. The axial-flow HeartMate II LVAD represents the new generation of devices. The clinical use of this pump resulted in superior outcomes. We review the HeartMate II technology, management, clinical usage and our experience.
Between 3/2002 and 12/2008, 18 transplantable adult patients were supported on long-term HeartMate II LVAD at our institution (13 men, age 52 +/- 8.4 years, range: 31-64 years). Primary indications were: ischemic cardiomyopathy (CMP) (n = 13), idiopathic CMP (n = 5). All patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class IV heart failure. None of patients had prior open-heart surgery. Implantation via cannulation of the left ventricular apex and the ascending aorta was always elective.
Mean support time was 217 +/- 212.3 days (range: 1-665 days). Early (30-day) mortality was 27.7% (five patients) with multiple organ failure and sepsis as main causes of death. Bleeding requiring reoperation occurred in six (33.3%) cases. Cerebral hemorrhage occurred in one patient. There were two driveline infections and no device failure. Twelve (66.6%) patients were successfully discharged home. Overall nine patients (50%) were transplanted and two patients are actually waiting for a suitable organ (n = 2 patients discharged home and n = 1 patient in hospital). At latest, follow-up survival rate after heart transplantation is 66.6% (six patients).
Long-term HeartMate II LVAD provides good mid-term, long-term results. This new technology requires delicate management. Functional status and quality of life greatly improve in patients who survive the perioperative period.
Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine 06/2009; 10(10):765-71. · 1.51 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Cardiac resynchronization therapy is effective in patients with a low ejection fraction and left bundle branch block, but 20%-30% do not respond despite selection of the optimal site for pacing on the left ventricle. We investigated whether optimizing the site for placement of the pacing lead on the right ventricle could further improve left ventricular function during cardiac resynchronization in 19 patients (mean age, 63 +/- 5 years) undergoing coronary artery bypass with post-ischemic dilated myocardiopathy (ejection fraction, 25.8% +/- 2%) and left bundle branch block. The hemodynamic response to pacing was tested with the right ventricular lead positioned at the interventricular septum, atrioventricular junction, acute margin, and the pulmonary trunk. Biventricular stimulation improved left ventricular function. When the right ventricular lead was sited at the interventricular septum, a significant improvement in all hemodynamic parameters compared to the other sites was obtained. Biventricular pacing is important to optimize cardiac resynchronization. Although further studies are needed to confirm these findings, accurate lead placement is recommended for cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with poor cardiac function and left bundle branch block.
Asian cardiovascular & thoracic annals 11/2007; 15(5):427-31.
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ABSTRACT: We propose a safer strategy for surgical treatment of retro-sternal pseudoaneurysms of the aortic root with severe aortic regurgitation. The objective was to allow safer re-entry in a quite and bloodless field eliminating the risk of ventricular distension and avoiding deep hypothermia.
In 6 patients presenting with postsurgical aortic root pseudoaneurysms in close proximity to the sternum associated with aortic regurgitation, we used the following techniques: femorofemoral cardiopulmonary bypass; transfemoral aortic endoclamping; percutaneous retrograde cardioplegia administration before sternotomy in patients with normal descending aorta; femoroaxillary cardiopulmonary bypass; transaxillary aortic endoclamping; percutaneous retrograde cardioplegia administration before sternotomy in patients with concomitant disease of the descending aorta.
All patients survived the operation and were discharged home. Arterial cannulation and endoclamp insertion were uneventful. Reentry was uncomplicated. Deep hypothermia was avoided in all cases. No occurrences of even minor neurologic problems were observed. None of these patients experienced a postoperative low cardiac output syndrome. Postoperative course was complicated in 1 patient with re-entry for bleeding; acute renal insufficiency requiring hemofiltration in 2 patients; pneumonia in 1 patient; and soft tissues sternotomy infection in 1 patient.
In patients presenting with a pseudoaneurysm of the aortic root attached to the sternum and concomitant aortic regurgitation it is possible, by closed chest endovascular aortic clamping, to eliminate risks of ventricular distension and to avoid deep hypothermia.
The Annals of thoracic surgery 11/2005; 80(4):1303-8. · 3.74 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The aim of the present study was to define a method to pre-determine the correct size of neo-sinuses of Valsalva in the reimplantation type of valve-sparing aortic operation.
The objective was achieved in three steps: (1) evaluation in the healthy population, of the normal size of sinuses of Valsalva expressed as the area surrounding fully opened aortic cusps, the so-called beyond leaflets area; (2) elaboration of a normogram by which, given a known annular diameter, it is possible to select the appropriate graft size to obtain a normal beyond leaflets area; (3) validation of the normogram by comparing, in a population of 20 patients undergoing a valve-sparing procedure, the predicted and observed beyond leaflets area.
The following values for beyond leaflets area were observed: mean normal 320.6+/-120.6mm(2), mean predicted 355+/-63.2mm(2), mean observed 364.7+/-72.8mm(2).No significant differences were obtained for predicted versus observed values. Regression analysis showed a linear distribution with an r value of 0.95.
We proposed a simplified approach for sizing of the neo-aortic root in the reimplantation type of valve-sparing aortic operation focussed on the size of sinuses of Valsalva. Our normogram showed to be reliable in anticipating beyond leaflets area. It can be helpful in avoiding the selection of an undersized or excessively oversized graft.
European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery 06/2005; 27(5):831-5. · 2.55 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: The Levitronix CentriMag (Levitronix LLC, Waltham, MA) ventricular assist device (VAD) is a magnetically levitated rotary pump designed for temporary extracorporeal support. Between February 2004 and May 2010, 42 consecutive adult patients were supported with Levitronix at our institution (32 men; age 62.3 ± 10.5 years, range: 31-76 years). Indications for support were (group A, n = 37) failure to wean from the cardiopulmonary bypass in the setting of postcardiotomy (n = 23), primary donor graft failure (n = 4), or right ventricular failure after axial left VAD (LVAD) placement (n = 10) and (group B, n = 5) refractory heart failure after acute myocardial infarction. The mean support time was 11.2 ± 6.8 days (range: 3-43 days) in group A and 8.6 ± 4.3 days (range: 5-11 days) in group B. In the postcardiotomy cohort (group A), 11 (47.8%) patients were weaned from support as all were supported graft failure patients. Eight patients of axial LVAD cohort were weaned from right VAD (RVAD). One patient was bridged to heart transplantation (Htx). Thirteen (35.1%) patients died on support in group A. In group B, one patient was bridged to Htx and four died on support. In overall population, bleeding requiring reoperation occurred in 15 (35.7%) cases and cerebral major events in four (9.5%). There were no device failures. Of the 23 (54.7%) patients who recovered and were discharged home, 20 (47.6%) are presently alive, and additionally, two patients of both groups who were bridged to Htx (overall n = 22, 52.3%). The Levitronix proved to be useful in patients previously considered nonsuitable for transplantation or long-term assist device. The device was technically easy to manage, and the results were encouraging.
ASAIO journal (American Society for Artificial Internal Organs: 1992) 57(4):247-53. · 1.39 Impact Factor
