Reeder, Guy S.

Background: Tricuspid edge to edge repair (TEER) is a novel treatment for severe tricuspid regurgitation and is highly dependent on intraprocedural image quality. To date, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has been the primary imaging modality used to guide TEER. The role of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has not been assessed. The objective of this study was to describe the use and role of 2-dimensional ICE in the early experience of TEER. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing TEER (with or without concomitant mitral repair) with off-label use of MitraClip (Abbott, Santa Clara, CA) were included in the study. Utilization of 2-dimensional ICE in comparison with TEE imaging were collected in each procedure through retrospective review of the procedural reports and images. Results: Of 42 TEER cases, ICE was used in 15 (36%) and concomitant mitral repair was performed in 37 (86%). ICE was increasingly used over time for TEER. ICE was able to visualize the tricuspid leaflets with high resolution and provided superior leaflet visualization to TEE in 40% of cases where it was used. Patients treated with ICE guidance tended to have a greater baseline severity of tricuspid regurgitation compared with patients treated with TEE guidance alone (8/15 [53%] massive or greater tricuspid regurgitation versus 6/27 [22%]; P =0.09). Degree of tricuspid regurgitation reduction was similar with TEE alone versus ICE plus TEE guidance (1.9±1.0 versus 2.1±1.1 grade reduction, P =0.28). Conclusions: ICE was increasingly used in the early experience of TEER over time. ICE facilitates leaflet visualization for grasping and is a useful adjunct to TEE during TEER.

AbstractBackgroundThe predictors and clinical significance of increased Doppler‐derived mean diastolic gradient (MG) following transcatheter edge‐to‐edge mitral valve repair (MVTEER) remain controversial.ObjectiveWe sought to examine baseline correlates of Doppler‐derived increased MG post‐MVTEER and its impact on intermediate‐term outcomes.MethodsPatients undergoing MVTEER were analyzed retrospectively. Post‐MVTEER increased MG was defined as >5 mmHg or aborted clip implantation due to increased MG intraprocedurally. Baseline MG and 3D‐guided mitral valve area (MVA) by planimetry were retrospectively available in 233 and 109 patients.Results243 patients were included; 62 (26%) had MG > 5 mmHg post‐MVTEER or aborted clip insertion, including 7 (11%) that had aborted clip implantation. Mortality occurred in 63 (26%) during a median follow up of 516 days (IQR 211, 1021). Increased post‐MVTEER MG occurred more frequently in females (44% vs. 16%, p < 0.001), those with baseline MVA <4.0 cm2 (71% vs. 16%), baseline MG ≥4 mmHg (61% vs. 20%), or multiple clips implanted (33% vs. 21%, p = 0.04). Increased post‐MVTEER MG was associated with increased subsequent mortality compared to those with normal gradient (HR 1.91 95% CI 1.15–3.18 p = 0.016) as was aborted clip insertion compared to all others (HR 5.23 95% CI 2.06–13.28 p < 0.001).ConclusionsSmaller baseline MVA and increased baseline MG are associated with increased MG post‐MVTEER and patients with a Doppler‐derived post‐MVTEER MG >5 mmHg suffered excess subsequent mortality. In high risk patients considered for MVTEER, identification of those at risk of iatrogenic mitral stenosis with MVTEER is important as they may be optimally treated with alternate surgical or transcatheter therapies.

0024 Background: There is evidence for the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of coronary disease. Relative lymphocytopenia was reported for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI), but little is known about its prognostic value. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that relative lymphocytopenia was associated with cardiac events (defined as recurrent MI, congestive heart failure or cardiac death) after MI among Olmsted County residents. Methods: MIs were validated using standard epidemiological criteria using enzymes, chest pain and Minnesota coding of the ECG. The entire community medical record, available via the Rochester Epidemiology Project, was reviewed to determine incident status and ascertain outcomes. Relative lymphocytopenia was defined as percent lymphocytes<20, 3%. Results: Between 1979 and 1994, an incidence cohort of 1653 validated MIs (mean age 67 ± 14, 43% women) was assembled. At the time of index MI, relative lymphocytopenia was present in 51% of the cases. After a mean follow-up of 6.9 ± 5.4 years, 471 pts had experienced recurrent MIs, 849 pts CHF and 602 cardiac deaths occurred. The 5-year event-free survival was 35% for cases with relative lymphocytopenia vs 52% for those without(p<0.001). After adjustment for age and current smoking, relative lymphocytopenia was associated with a 21% increase in the risk of cardiac event (RR 1.21, 95% CI 1.1-1.4; p=0.003). Conclusion: Relative lymphocytopenia is associated with cardiac events after incident MI. These data support the role of inflammation in the outcome of coronary disease.

P46 While heart failure (HF), an emerging epidemic, complicates myocardial infarction (MI), little is known on the predictors of HF post-MI, in particular the impact of reperfusion therapy. This population-based study was undertaken to examine the association between clinical characteristics and post-MI HF between 1979 and 1994. Hospitalized incident MIs were validated using enzymes, chest pain, and Minnesota coding of the ECG. Framingham criteria were used to ascertain both in- and outpatient HF. Proportional hazard regression was used to identify predictors of CHF. In the study period, 1657 patients (pts.) (mean age 67.2 ± 13.9 years, 43% women) had an incident MI. History of diabetes, hypertension and prior HF was found in 19%, 54% and 11% of pts respectively. After 5 years, 43% of pts had experienced HF. Factors independently associated with HF were (see table). There was a 2% decline per year in occurrence of HF. Adding reperfusion therapy in the model attenuated the association between year and HF (adjusted RR for reperfusion 0.67, 95% CI 0.53, 0.84, p=0.006; adjusted for year 0.99; 95% CI 0.97, 1.01, p=0.37). Thus, while remaining frequent post-MI CHF has declined over time. Reperfusion therapy accounted for most of the effect of year. Table 1.

AbstractObjectivesWe sought to determine hemodynamic effects of aortic paravalvular leak (PVL) and predictors of clinical outcomes after aortic PVL closure.BackgroundThe significance of hemodynamic alterations in PVL and relation to severity, procedural success of percutaneous closure and clinical outcomes have not been defined.MethodsPatients undergoing percutaneous PVL closure between July 21, 2004 and September 10, 2018 were included. PVL severity was assessed by echocardiography and aortic angiography. Hemodynamics were assessed by intra‐arterial pressure tracings before and after PVL closure. The primary outcome was a composite of mortality, redo aortic valve replacement (AVR) and redo PVL closure.ResultsOne hundred and seventeen patients (mean age 70.3 ± 14.9 years, 79% surgical and 21% transcatheter prostheses) underwent PVL closure with 94% technical success. PVL was moderate or greater in 106 (91%) at baseline and 11 (11%) post‐procedure. Diastolic BP for those with moderate or greater PVL was lower than for those with less PVL (50.3 ± 11.7 vs. 56.5 ± 12.4 mmHg, p < .001). Pulse pressure was similar between these groups (69.9 ± 20.3 vs. 67.4 ± 21.2 mmHg, p = .39). 35 patients (34%) had 40 events during a mean follow‐up of 1.6 ± 1.9 years (23 deaths, 12 redo AVR, and five redo PVL closures). In a multivariate model, final diastolic BP <47 mmHg (HR 3.27 [1.45–7.36], p = .007) was a significant predictor of the composite endpoint.ConclusionsDiastolic BP was significantly associated with aortic PVL severity and clinical outcomes after PVL closure. In contrast, pulse pressure did not correlate with PVL severity or outcomes. These findings have implications for clinical management of patients with aortic PVL.

AbstractBackgroundTranscatheter edge‐to‐edge repair with MitraClip is only approved for treatment of mitral regurgitation but is increasingly used to treat concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) due to its common coexistence and association with poor outcomes. This study aimed to describe the learning curve associated with the challenge of off‐label treatment of concomitant TR.MethodsThis is a retrospective review of initial and consecutive patients who underwent combined edge‐to‐edge repair of mitral and tricuspid valves (TVs) at our institution from August 2017 to October 2019.ResultsRepair of both valves with MitraClip was performed in 22 patients (median age 81.5 years, 32% female). Mean procedure time was 176 ± 47 min; mean fluoroscopy time was 65 ± 24 min. Procedure duration in the first tertile was significantly longer (223 ± 13 min) than in the third tertile (143 ± 23 min, p = .0003). Median number of total clips placed per case was 3; in 15 patients (68%), the anterior and septal leaflets of the TV were clipped. The average changes in mean right atrial (RA) and left atrial (LA) pressures were −1.7 ± 2.5 mmHg (p = .0080) and −3.2 ± 4.6 mmHg (p = .0045), respectively. The average changes in RA and LA V‐wave heights were −3.3 ± 4.0 mmHg (p = .0009) and −8.1 ± 9.9 mmHg (p = .038), respectively. There was a significant trend toward decreasing residual TR over the course of the series (p = .046). At 30 days, survival was 100% and mean NYHA class decreased from 2.8 to 1.8 (p < .0001).ConclusionsCombined edge‐to‐edge tricuspid and mitral valve repair is safe and feasible. With experience, procedure duration and residual TR decreased.

Objective A subset of patients at the time of transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) will have normal left atrial pressure (LAP) (<13 mm Hg) despite having severe mitral regurgitation (MR). The goal of this study was to determine clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with normal LAP undergoing TMVR. Methods A single-centre retrospective cohort of consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve clip and continuous LAP monitoring between 5/1/2014 and 5/1/2018 was analysed. One-year mortality was compared by Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of normal LAP and 1 year mortality. Results Of the 204 patients undergoing TMVR, 65% were men and the mean age was 81. Of these patients, 31 (15%) had normal LAP (mean LAP 10.5 mm Hg, mean V wave 16.5 mm Hg) and 173 had elevated LAP (mean LAP 19 mm Hg, mean V wave 32.5 mm Hg). The prevalence of severe MR was not different between groups, although the normal LAP group had significantly lower effective regurgitant orifice area and regurgitant volume. Other notable baseline characteristics including prior cardiac surgery, atrial fibrillation, hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, body mass index, mechanism of MR and ejection fraction were similar between groups. However, there was an increased prevalence of chronic lung disease (CLD) (45.2% vs 17.3%, p<0.001) in the normal LAP group. On multivariate analysis, the only significant predictor of normal LAP was the presence of CLD (OR 4.79 (1.83–12.36), p=0.001) and 1-year mortality was significantly higher in the normal LAP group (32.3% vs 12.7%, p=0.006). After adjustment for comorbidities, normal LAP was no longer a predictor of 1-year mortality (RR 1.62 (0.64–4.06), p=0.32); however, CLD (RR 3.44 (1.37–8.67), p=0.01) remained a statistically significant predictor. Conclusion Normal LAP at the time of TMVR is associated with a higher incidence of CLD which independently predicts increased 1-year mortality. In patients with CLD and apparently severe MR, measurement of LAP may help identify those with lower likelihood of benefit from TMVR.

Abstract Background Transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (TMVR; MitraClip, Abbott Vascular) is clinically approved for treatment of severe, symptomatic mitral regurgitation (MR) in high or prohibitive surgical risk patients. Iatrogenic mitral stenosis is a known complication of TMVR, but determinants of increased post-procedure mean diastolic gradient are not well defined. Purpose We aimed to investigate the determinants of increased mitral mean diastolic gradient after TMVR. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 59 patients. 2D and 3D TEE data sets acquired before and immediately after procedure were analyzed. 4D Cardio-View and 4D MV-Assessment (TomTec, Germany) were used for the analysis of the 3D volume data set. Quantitative mitral valve analysis was done at the end of systole. Increased mitral mean diastolic gradient after TMVR was correlated with pre-procedure 2D and 3D echocardiographic data. Results 34 patients had primary MR, 25 patients had mixed/secondary MR. Baseline mean mitral diastolic gradient was 2.0 ± 0.9mmHg and increased to 3.9 ± 1.8mmHg post-TMVR and the mean 3D planimetric mitral valve area decreased from 5.3 ± 1.5cm2 to 2.6 ± 1.0cm2. Implantation of multiple clips was performed less frequently in patients with smaller baseline mitral valve area; 8% vs 47% in the lowest quartile vs all others (p = 0.006). 12(20%) of patients had a mean diastolic gradient &gt;5mmHg post-TMVR and 15(25%) of patients had a post-TMVR mitral valve area &lt;2.0 cm2. There was no significant difference in post-procedure heart rate between patients with mean diastolic gradient ≤5mmHg vs &gt;5mmHg (p = 0.08). Patient characteristics according to post-TMVR mean diastolic gradient are shown in the Table. Post-TMVR mean diastolic gradient &gt;5mmHg was more common in patients with increased pre-procedure mean diastolic gradient(p = 0.006), post-TMVR mitral valve area &lt;2.0 cm2(40% vs 14%, p = 0.03), and ≥moderate residual mitral regurgitation(38% vs 11%, p = 0.02). Post-TMVR mitral valve area &lt;2.0cm2 was present in 50% vs 19% of patients with vs without a mean gradient &gt;5mmHg(p = 0.04). Conclusions Elevated post-TMVR mean diastolic gradient is multifactorial and related to mitral stenosis, but residual mitral regurgitation also appears to be an important contributor to increased gradients in some patients. Larger cohorts are likely needed to assess the concurrent impact of mitral annular calcification, leaflet calcification, and other variables on post-TMVR mean gradient. Abstract P1798 Figure. 2D and 3D Echocardiographic Parameters

AbstractObjectiveTo review our experience with balloon testing prior to atrial septal defect (ASD) closure in adults with left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction.BackgroundASD closure in patients with LV diastolic dysfunction may precipitate LV failure. Temporary ASD occlusion has been used in this scenario but data are limited.MethodsRetrospective review of 27 patients age ≥ 50 years undergoing temporary ASD balloon occlusion between 2000 and 2018 for suspected LV diastolic dysfunction or elevated LV end‐diastolic pressure (LVEDP).ResultsMedian age was 72 years (IQR 66.7; 75.2). Atrial fibrillation was seen in 58% of patients, hypertension in 58%, and coronary artery disease in 26%; 52% were females. Median ASD size was 13 mm (10; 18) and Qp/Qs 1.8 (1.6; 2.2). Median LVEDP was 14 mmHg (12; 22); pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) 12 mmHg (9; 16.5) and left atrial pressure (LAP) 13.5 mmHg (8; 16.3). After a median of 5 min (3; 10) of balloon occlusion, patients with baseline LVEDP ≥15 mmHg had more significant increases in LVEDP (9 [6; 12] vs. 2 mmHg [0.5; 5]; p = 0.03) and LAP/PAWP (10.5 [8.3; 16.3] vs. 1.5 mmHg [−1.5; 3]; p = 0.0003) than those with baseline LVEDP <15 mmHg. None of those with a baseline LVEDP <15 mmHg had a LAP/PAWP >15 mmHg during balloon testing compared to 92% of patients with a baseline LVEDP ≥15 mmHg.ConclusionLVEDP might be used to predict LAP post‐ASD closure. Comorbidities typically associated with LV diastolic dysfunction are common in these patients and should be considered in their management.

AbstractBackgroundThe effect of utilizing transapical (TA) access for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) on cardiac function has not been well studied.AimsThe aim of this retrospective study is to determine the direct effects of TA access for TAVR on myocardial function parameters and their correlation with 4‐year survival.MethodsThree hundred and thirty propensity matched patients, who underwent TAVR using Sapien valve (Edwards Lifesciences Corp, Irvine, CA) between February 15, 2012 and June 17, 2016 (115 TA and 115 transfemoral [TF] routes) were studied. The pre‐ and 1 month post‐TAVR echocardiographic features of both groups were compared. The 4‐year survival in both groups was analyzed.ResultsBaseline clinical characteristics, diastolic function parameters, left ventricular (LV) chamber size, and ejection fraction were similar between matched TA and TF groups. At 1 month following TAVR, there was a significant increase in stroke volume index (SVI) in both TA (mean increase 7 cm3/m2; P = 0.03) and TF groups (mean increase 7 cm3/m2; P < 0.001). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) significantly increased post TF TAVR (mean increase 2%; P = 0.008), but no significant increase was observed post TA TAVR (mean increase 1%; P = 0.27). Both groups had significant improvement in aortic valve (AV) hemodynamics post‐TAVR (P < 0.001). Overall, there were no significant differences in the mean change of SVI, LVEF, or left ventricular end diastolic dimensions (LVEDDs) post TA versus TF TAVR. There was no significant difference in 4‐year survival in the TF compared to TA group (49% vs 50%, P = 0.43).ConclusionBoth TA and TF TAVR were equally associated with favorable changes in LV SVI and AV hemodynamics in 30 days. TA TAVR patients had similar 4 year survival to propensity matched TF TAVR; therefore, TA TAVR remains an acceptable alternative access route in patients not amenable to TF TAVR.