Does On‐Pump/Beating‐Heart Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Offer Better Outcome in End‐Stage Coronary Artery Disease Patients?

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of our study was to evaluate in a cohort of end-stage coronary artery disease (ESCAD) patients the effects of on-pump/beating-heart versus conventional coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) requiring cardioplegic arrest. We report early and midterm survival, morbidity, and improvement of left ventricular (LV) function. METHODS: Between January 1992 and October 1999, 107 (Group I) ESCAD patients underwent on-pump/beating-heart surgery and 191 (Group II) ESCAD patients underwent conventional CABG requiring cardioplegic arrest. Mean age in Group I was 65.8 +/- 6.5 years (58-79 years); New York Heart Association (NYHA) and Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) classifications were 3.2 +/- 0.4 and 3.3 +/- 0.5, respectively. LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was 24.8% +/- 4%, LV end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) was 28.2 +/- 3.8 mmHg, and LV end diastolic diameter (LVEDD) was 69.6 +/- 4.6 mm. Mean age in Group II was 64.1 +/- 5 years (57-76 years), NYHA class was 3 +/- 0.6, CCS class was 3.4 +/- 0.4, LVEF was 26.2% +/- 4.3%, LVEDP was 27.2 +/- 3.4 mmHg, and LVED was 68 +/- 4.2 mm. RESULTS: Preoperatively, Group I patients versus Group II patients had a markedly depressed LV function (LVEF, p = 0.006; LVEDP, p = 0.02; LVEDD, p = 0.003; and NYHA class, p = 0.002), older age (p = 0.012), and higher incidences of multiple acute myocardial infarction (AMI; p = 0.004), cardiovascular disease (CVD; p = 0.008), and chronic renal failure (CRH, p = 0.002). Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was longer in Group II patients (p = 0.028). The mean distal anastomosis per patient was similar between groups (p = NS). Operative mortality between Groups I and II was 7 (6.5%) and 19 (10%), respectively (p = NS). Perioperative AMI (p = 0.034), low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS; p = 0.011), necessity for ultrafiltration (p = 0.017), and bleeding (p = 0.012) were higher in Group II. Improvement of LV function within 3 months after the surgical procedure was markedly higher in Group I, demonstrated by increased LVEF (p = 0.035), lower LVEDP (p = 0.027), and LVEDD (p = 0.001) versus the preoperative data in Group II. The actuarial survivals at 1, 3, and 5 years were 95%, 86%, and 73% in Group I and 95%, 84%, and 72% in Group II (p = NS). CONCLUSIONS: ESCAD patients with bypassable vessels to two or more regions of reversible ischemia can undergo safe CABG with acceptable hospital survival and mortality and morbidity. In higher risk ESCAD patients, who may poorly tolerate cardioplegic arrest, on-pump/beating-heart CABG may be an acceptable alternative associated with lower postoperative mortality and morbidity. Such a technique offers better myocardial and renal protection associated with lower postoperative complications.     

Beating heart myocardial revascularization on extracorporeal circulation in patients with end-stage coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate in a cohort of ESCAD patients (pts) the effects of on-pump/beating-heart versus conventional CABG in terms of early and mid-term survival and morbidity and LV function improvement. METHODS: Between January 1993 and December 2000, 78 (Group I) ESCAD pts underwent on-pump/beating-heart surgery. Mean age in Group I was 66.2+/-6 (58-79), NYHA and CCS class were 3.2+/-0.6 and 3.3+/-0.4 respectively, Myocardial viability index 0.69+/-0.1 (%), LVEF (%) 24.8+/-4, LVEDP (mmHg) 28.1+/-5.8 and LVEDD(mm) 69.5+/-6. Group II consisted in 78 ESCAD patients undergoing conventional CABG selected in a randomized fashion from an age, sex, and LVEF corrected group of patients. Mean age in Group II was 65.7+/-5 (57-78), NYHA 3.1+/-0.7, CCS 3.4+/-0.8, LVEF(%) 25+/-5, LVEDP(mmHg) 27.9+/-4.4 and LVEDD(mm) 69.2+/-7.2. RESULTS: Postoperatively, 5(7.7%) patients died in Group I versus 7(11.5%) patients in Group II (P>0.1). CPB time resulted to be in Group II patients (P=0.001) and the mean distal anastomoses per patient was similar between groups (P=Ns). Perioperative AMI (P=0.039), LCOS (P=0.002), necessity for ultrafiltration (P=0.018) and bleeding>1000 ml (P=0.029) were significantly higher in Group II. None of the Group I patients underwent surgical revision for bleeding versus 8(10.3%) patients in Group II (P=0.011). At 6 months after surgery, the LV function improved significantly in Group I patients, demonstrated by an increased LVEF=27.2+/-4(%)(P=0.001), lower LVEDP=26.4+/-3(mmHg)(P=0.029) and LVEDD=67+/-4(mm) (P=0.004) instead of a lower LVEDD=66.8+/-6(mm)(P=0.032) versus the preoperative data in Group II. The actuarial survival at 1, 3 and 5 yr were 90, 82 and 71% in Group I and 89, 83 and 74% in Group II (P=Ns). CONCLUSION: In ESCAD patients who may poorly tolerate cardioplegic arrest, on-pump/beating-heart CABG may be an acceptable alternative associated with lower postoperative mortality and morbidity. Such a technique offers a better myocardial and renal protection associated with lower postoperative complications due to intraoperative hypoperfusion.     

Long-term results of coronary artery bypass grafting procedure in the presence of left ventricular dysfunction and hibernating myocardium.

OBJECTIVE: Long-term left ventricular (LV) performance and patient outcome after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedure in the presence of depressed LV function and hibernating myocardium (HM) have been poorly determined. Therefore, we prospectively evaluated patients undergoing CABG with severe LV dysfunction and HM to elucidate postoperative prognosis. METHODS: We enrolled 120 consecutive patients undergoing CABG with severe LV dysfunction and HM as assessed by dobutamine echocardiography and by rest-redistribution radionuclide (Thallium-201) study. Mean patient age was 60+/-9 years (range 31-77 years). Mean preoperative LVEF was 28%+/-9 (range 10-40%). All patients underwent echocardiographic study to assess LV recovery of function intraoperatively, prior to hospital discharge, at 3 months, at 1 year, and yearly during the follow-up. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to to evaluate predictors of postoperative survival. RESULTS: There were 2 hospital (1.6%) and 15 late (12.5%) deaths, mainly for heart failure, leading to an actuarial survival of 80+/-6% and 60+/-9% at 5 and 8 years, respectively. LVEF significantly improved perioperatively (from 28+/-9% to 40+/-2%, P<0.01). Increase in LVEF, however, was gradually offset over the time (EF of 33+/-9%, 32+/-8%, and 30+/-9% at 3 months, and 12 months, and 8 years after surgery, respectively). Furthermore, patients who experienced limited LV functional recovery perioperatively had a more remarkable decline of LVEF thereafter, and suffered from recurrence of heart failure symptoms (freedom from heart failure 82+/-5% and 60+/-8% at 4 and 8 years respectively). Advanced preoperative NYHA Class, and age were independent risks factors for reduced postoperative survival. Preoperative angina and use of arterial conduits apparently did not influence patient morbidity and mortality at long term. CONCLUSION: CABG procedure in the presence of HM enhances LV recovery of function and has a favourable prognosis. Functional benefit of the left ventricle, however, appears to be time-limited, despite remarkable improvement in patient functional capacity. Advanced preoperative heart failure, minimal perioperative improvement of LVEF, and age account for a poor long-term prognosis.     

Aortic valve replacement for aortic regurgitation and stenosis, in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction.

OBJECTIVE: Aortic valve replacement for aortic valve stenosis (AS) and regurgitation (AR) in patients with severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction contains an increased risk. Few data are available on the outcome of such patients. METHODS: Fifty-five consecutive patients with severe LV dysfunction (ejection fraction, EF; <30%) and aortic valve replacement for AS (n=35) or AR (n=20) were investigated between 1994 and 2001. EF was 25+/-5%, mean transvalvular gradient 26+/-6mmHg (AS), aortic valve area 0.66+/-0.18cm(2) (AS), cardiac index (CI) 2.4+/-0.9l/min/m(2), enddiastolic LV diameter (LVEDD) 64+/-8mm and endsystolic LV diameters (LVESD) was 55+/-3mm. Ninety percent of patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/IV at admission to the hospital. Concomitant coronary artery bypass grafts (CABG) were performed in 14 patients. Follow-up examinations including chest X-ray, echocardiography, exercise testing, were performed among survivors. RESULTS: The survival rates for AS were: 1-year 76%, 2-year 68.8%, 5-year 64.2%; for AR: 1-year 94.4%, 2-year 86.5%, 5-year 74.2%. NYHA functional class improved from 90% in class III/IV to 45 (AR group) and 24% (AS group) at follow-up (P<0.02). The LVEDD decreased to 54+/-8mm after 1 year. The EF improved to 38+/-4 (AR group) and 40+/-5% (AS group) at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Despite severe LV dysfunction, increased 1-year mortality especially in the AS group, aortic valve replacement was associated with improved functional status, symptoms and EF in both groups and in most patients. We, therefore, conclude that aortic valve replacement in patients with severe LV dysfunction can be performed with acceptable risk.     

Should Mild‐to‐Moderate and Moderate Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation Be Corrected in Patients with Impaired Left Ventricular Function Undergoing Simultaneous Coronary Revascularization?

INTRODUCTION: Mitral valve regurgitation (MR) occurring as a result of myocardial ischemia and global left ventricular (LV) dysfunction predicts poor outcome. This study assessed the feasibility of mitral valve (MV) surgery concomitant with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with mild-to-moderate and moderate ischemic MR and impaired LV function. MaTERIALS AND METHOD: From January 1996 to July 2000, 49 patients (group 1) and 50 patients (group 2) with grade II and grade III ischemic MR and LV ejection fraction (EF) between 17% and 30% underwent combined MV surgery and CABG (group 1) or isolated CABG (group 2). LVEF (%), LV end-diastolic diameter (EDD) (mm), LV end-diastolic pressure (EDP) (mmHg), and LV end-systolic diameter (ESD) (mm) were 27.5 +/- 5, 67.7 +/- 7,27.7 +/- 4, and 51.4 +/- 7, respectively in group 1 versus 27.8 +/- 4, 67.5 +/- 6, 27.5 +/- 5, and 51.2 +/- 6, respectively in group 2. Groups 1 and 2 were divided into Groups 1A and 2A with mild-to-moderate MR (22 [45%] and 28 [56%] patients, respectively) and groups 1B and 2B with moderate MR (27 [55%] and 22 [46%], respectively). In group 1, MV repair was performed in 43 (88%) patients and MV replacement in 6 (12%) patients. RESULTS: Preoperative data analysis did not reveal any difference between groups. Five (10%) patients in group 1 died versus 6 (12%) in group 2 (p = ns). Within 6 months after surgery, LV function and its geometry improved significantly in group 1 versus group 2 (LVEF, p < 0.001; LVEDD, p = 0.002; LVESD, p = 0.003; and LVEDP (p < 0.001) improved significantly in group 1 instead of a mild improvement in Group 2). The regurgitation fraction decreased significantly in group 1 patients after surgery (p < 0.001). There was an inverse strong correlation between postoperative forward cardiac output and regurgitation fraction (p < 0.001). LVEF and LVESD improved significantly in group 1 versus group 2 patients (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). The cardiac index increased significantly in group 1 and 2 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). LV function and geometry improved significantly postoperatively in group 1B versus group 2B (LVEDD, p = 0.027; LVESD, p = 0.014; LVEDP, p = 0.034; and LVEF, p = 0.02), instead of a mild improvement in group 1A versus group 2A (LVESD, p = 0.015; LVEF, p = 0.046; and LVEDD and LVEDP, p = 0.05). At follow-up, 4 (67%) of 6 patients undergoing MV replacement died versus 5 (11.5%) of 43 patients undergoing MV repair in group 1 (p = 0.007). The overall survival at 3 years in Group 2 was significantly lower than group 1 (p < 0.009). Conclusion: MV repair and replacement-preserving subvalvular apparatus in patients with impaired LV function offered acceptable outcomes in terms of morbidity and survival. Surgical correction of mild-to-moderate and moderate MR in patients with impaired LV function should be taken into consideration since it yields better survival and improved LV function.     

Left ventricular aneurysms: early and long-term results of two types of repair.

OBJECTIVE: Controversy still exists regarding the optimal surgical technique for postinfarction left ventricular (LV) aneurysm repair. We analyze the efficacy of two established techniques, linear vs. patch remodeling, for repair of dyskinetic LV aneurysms. METHODS: Between May 1988 and December 2001, 110 consecutive patients underwent repair of LV aneurysms. These represent 2.0% of a total group of 5429 patients who underwent isolated CABG during the period. Seventy-six (69.1%) patients were submitted to linear repair and 34 (30.9%) to patch remodelling. There were 94 (84.5%) men and 17 women, with a mean age of 59.2+/-9.2 years. Coronary surgery was performed in all patients (mean no. of grafts/patient, 2.7+/-0.8) and 14 (12.7%) had associated coronary endarterectomy. Forty-four (40.0%) patients had angina CCS class III/IV (linear 43.4%, patch 32.4%, NS) and the majority was in NYHA class I/II (88.2% in both groups). Left ventricular dysfunction (EF>40%) was present in 72 (65.5%) patients (linear 61.8%, patch 73.5%, NS). RESULTS: There was no perioperative mortality, and major morbidity was not significantly different between linear repair and patch repair groups. During a mean follow-up of 7.3+/-3.4 years (range 4-182 months) 14 patients (14.3%) had died, 12 (85.7%) of possible cardiac-related cause. Actual global survival rate was 85.7%. Actuarial survival rates at 5, 10 and 15 years were 91.3, 81.4 and 74%, respectively. There was no significant difference in late survival between the patch and the linear groups. At late follow-up the mean angina and NYHA class were, 1.3 (preoperative 2.4, P<0.001) and 1.5 (preoperative 1.7, NS), respectively, with no difference between the groups. There was no significant difference in hospital readmissions for cardiac causes (linear 22.8% and patch 37.0%). CONCLUSIONS: The technique of repair of postinfarction dyskinetic LV aneurysms should be adapted in each patient to the cavity size and shape, and the dimension of the scar. Both techniques achieved good results with respect to perioperative mortality, late functional status and survival.     

Surgical ventricular restoration for ischemic cardiomyopathy

In this study, we demonstrated the mid-term result of surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) for ischemic cardiomyopathy. Fifty-two patients (age 62 +/- 11 years) who underwent SVR between 2003 and 2010 were enrolled. Overlapping left ventriculoplasty, papillary muscle approximation, and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were performed in 36 (69%), 39 (75%) and 46 (88%) patients, respectively. Preoperatively, 45 (87%) patients presented New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV, whereas all patients presented NYHA I/III postoperatively (P < 0.01). left ventricular (LV) end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) were improved postoperatively (LVESVI: 111 +/- 37 to 68 +/- 24, p < 0.01, LVEF : 30 +/- 9 to 37 +/- 11, p < 0.01). The degree of mitral regurgitation (MR) was 3+ or more in 27 (52%) patients, whereas 50 (96%) presented 1+ or less postoperatively (P < 0.01). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 90%. 83%, and 75%, respectively. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that preoperative MR 4+ was the significant predictor of postoperative death (P < 0.05, HR 5.2, 95% CI 1.2-22.9). Because of its satisfactory mid-term result, SVR would be validated as an effective procedure for ischemic cardiomyopathy.     

Beating heart ischemic mitral valve repair and coronary revascularization in patients with impaired left ventricular function

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate in a cohort of patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function and ischemic mitral valve regurgitation (MVR), the effects of on-pump/beating heart versus conventional surgery in terms of postoperative mortality and morbidity and LV function improvement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1993 and February 2001, 91 patients with LVEF between 17% and 35% and chronic ischemic MVR (grade III-IV), underwent MV repair in concomitance with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) Sixty-one patients (Group I) underwent cardiac surgery with cardioplegic arrest, and 30 patients (Group II) underwent beating heart combined surgery. Aortic valve insufficiency was considered a contraindication for the on-pump/beating heart procedure. Mean age in Group I was 64.4 +/- 7 years and in Group II, 65 +/- 6 years (p = 0.69). RESULTS: The in-hospital mortality in Group I was 8 (13%) patients versus 2 (7%) patients in Group II (p > 0.1). The cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was significantly higher in Group I (p < 0.001). In Groups I and II, respectively (p > 0.1), 2.5 +/- 1 and 2.7 +/- 0.8 grafts per patient were employed. Perioperative complications were identified in 37 (60.7%) patients in Group I versus 10 (33%) patients in Group II (p = 0.025). Prolonged inotropic support of greater than 24 hours was needed in 48 (78.7%) patients (Group I) versus 15 (50%) patients (Group II) (p = 0.008). Postoperative IABP and low cardiac output incidence were significantly higher in Group I, p = 0.03 and p = 0.027, respectively. Postoperative bleeding greater than 1000 mL was identified in 24 patients (39.4%) in Group I versus 5 (16.7%) in Group II (p = 0.033). Renal dysfunction incidence was 65.6% (40 patients) in Group I versus 36.7% (11 patients) in Group II (p = 0.013). The echocardiographic examination within six postoperative months revealed a significant improvement of MV regurgitation fraction, LV function, and reduced dimensions in both groups. The postoperative RF was significantly lower in Group II patients 12 +/- 6 (%) versus 16 +/- 5.6 (%) in Group I (p = 0.001). The 1, 2, and 3 years actuarial survival including all deaths was 91.3%, 84.2%, and 70% in Group I and 93.3%, 87.1%, and 75% in Group II (p = ns). NYHA FC improved significantly in all patients from both groups. CONCLUSION: We conclude that patients with impaired LV function and ischemic MVR may undergo combined surgery with acceptable mortality and morbidity. The on/pump beating heart MV repair simultaneous to CABG offers an acceptable postoperative outcome in selected patients.     

Physical activity post myocardial revascularization. 'Will surgery improve my mobility?

AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) on physical activity (PA) one year postoperative and the influence of the preoperative level of PA on the postoperative PA level. METHODS: In 428 patients, mean age 64.1+/-9.2 (30-84), undergoing an isolated CABG in 2003, pre and one year postoperatively PA was recorded. Preoperatively, 4 patients (0.9%) were in NYHA I, 33 (7.7%) in NYHA II, 334 (78%) in NYHA III and 57 patients (13.4%) in NYHA class IV. PA was recorded following the Honolulu Heart project. For analysis purposes PA levels were classified as sedentary, 41 patients (9.5%) or minimally active, 161 patients (37.6%) were included in a single sedentary group; 202 patients (47.1%). Patients classified as moderately active, 127 patients (29.6%), active, 72 patients (16.8%) and very active, 27 patients (6.3%) were included in a single active group, 226 patients (52.9%). RESULTS: One year postoperatively, 394 patients (92.%) indicated they were angina-free. One hundred seventy-seven patients (41.3%) recorded a better PA-level. One hundred seventy-one patients (40%) recorded the same and 80 patients (18.7%) had a lower PA level. Significantly more patients, 63.9% of the sedentary group versus 21.2% of the active group recorded a higher PA level (P=0.00). Multivariate analysis identified a preoperative active level and vascular disease as risk factors for decreased postoperative PA (P=0.00, odds ratio: 8.1) and a sedentary level as a risk factor for no increase (P=0.00, odds ratio 6.8) CONCLUSIONS: Sedentary patients are likely to show an improvement, however, a sedentary lifestyle is a predictor of no increase in PA. Patients with an active level are unlikely to benefit from surgery.     

Preoperative modeling of an optimal left ventricle volume for surgical treatment of ventricular aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the results of surgical treatment postinfarction ventricular aneurysms, with preoperative modeling of an optimal left ventricle volume. METHODS: From January 1998 to December 2000, 41 patients underwent left ventricular (LV) aneurysm repair. There were 39 men and two women, with a mean age 45.6+/-6.2 years. With echocardiography study, an optimal end-diastolic volume of LV was modeled on the basis of the proper stroke index and the contractile ejection fraction (EF). A permissible area of aneurysm resection was calculated by using a difference between the initial and the projected surface area of LV. The patch position and sizes were measured preoperatively. Ventricular reconstruction was performed by using linear plasty in eight patients, septal plasty of the Stoney et al. technique in 14 patients, and endoventriculoplasty of the Dor et al. technique in 19 patients. RESULTS: The mean NYHA functional class decreased from 2.9+/-0.6 to 1.6+/-0.7 postoperatively. The improvement of LV contracting function made itself evident in a decreased end-diastolic volume from 216+/-98 to 158+/-35 ml, and end-systolic volume from 133+/-85 to 80+/-34 ml postoperatively. The mean EF increased from 38+/-11 to 49+/-9% after operation. We noted that preoperative contractile EF corresponded with postoperative EF (49.8+/-11% and 49.3+/-9%, respectively). The projected optimal end-diastolic volume of LV estimated before operation agreed with postoperative data (152+/-33 ml and 158+/-35 ml, respectively). The hospital mortality rate was 7.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative modeling of an optimal LV volume allows for the estimation of a permissible area of aneurysm resection, the position and sizes of the patch, as well as for the prevention of an excessive reduction of the LV cavity after aneurysm repair.     

Significance of coronary artery bypass grafting to totally occluded left anterior descending coronary artery

The comparative studies on operative and hemodynamic results following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were performed in 15 patients with totally occluded left anterior descending coronary artery (TOLAD) and 24 with partially occluded LAD (POLAD). There were two operative deaths and one whose graft was obstructed in POLAD. Four patients were revealed to have transmural myocardial infarction (TMI) in the region other than anterior segment on the preoperative electrocardiogram. Following results were obtained in 13 TOLAD (Group I) and 19 POLAD (Group II) with two subgroups, a: without TMI and b: with anterior TMI, whose all bypass grafts were patent. Left ventricular ejection fraction, Mean Vcf and left ventricular anterior, apical segmental wall motion significantly increased postoperatively in all groups, whereas postero-inferior segmental wall motion did not increase in all groups. Cardiac index and PLVSP/LVESV significantly increased postoperatively in all groups, but did not in Group Ib. Angina disappeared postoperatively in 12 patients (92.3%) in group I and 16 (84.2%) in Group II. In both groups, NYHA classification was improved from class III or IV preoperatively to class I or II postoperatively. Postoperative 10 years actuarial survival rate was 90.7% in Group I and 90.8% in Group II. In conclusion, it was proved that CABG to TOLAD offered significant increase in left ventricular contractility, better quality of life and satisfactory long term survival rate almost same as CABG to POLAD.     

Elective intraaortic balloon counterpulsation in high-risk off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

The beneficial effects of intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) in CABG with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) have been reported. However, the benefits of insertion of IABP electively in high-risk off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) have not been established. Six hundred and twenty-five patients who underwent OPCAB form the study group. High-risk patients fulfilling two or more of the following: left main stem stenosis >70%, unstable angina, and poor left ventricular function, who had elective insertion of IABP preoperatively by the open technique (group I; n = 20) were compared with a similar high-risk group that did not (group II; n = 25). There were no significant differences in risk factors between the two groups (Euroscore 5.68). The mean number of grafts was similar. Postoperatively, there were no significant differences in the need for inotropes, duration of ventilation, arrhythmias, cerebrovascular, gastrointestinal, and infective complications (p = NS). There were no IABP-related complications. Acute renal failure requiring hemofiltration was higher in group II (n = 5; p < 0.05). Four patients (16%) in group II required postoperative IABP. Although intensive care stay was longer in group I (27.6 +/- 15.3 vs. 18.6 +/- 9.1 hours; p < 0.05), patients in group I were discharged earlier from hospital. There was no difference in mortality between the two groups (n = 1 in each group). In high-risk patients undergoing OPCAB, routine preoperative insertion of IABP electively reduces the incidence of acute renal failure. In addition it avoids the need for emergency insertion postoperatively and may result in earlier discharge.     

Improvement of severely reduced left ventricular function after surgical revascularization in patients with preoperative myocardial infarction.

In recent years, two pathophysiological conditions--stunned and hibernating myocardium--have been described showing how function may be depressed in myocardium that remains viable. The aims of the present study were postoperative assessment of LV function at rest and during exercise after CABG in patients with established previous myocardial infarction and impaired preoperative LV function and evaluation of preliminary experience with positron emission tomography (PET) in the preoperative identification of reversible ischaemic myocardium and its predictivity in postoperative functional improvement. We studied 23 patients with preoperative LV function under 45%. Echocardiography and complete heart catheter were performed pre- and postoperatively. PET was performed in all patients preoperatively. In 21 patients with patent grafts, CABG significantly improved systolic and diastolic function during exercise and at rest. EF improved from 34% +/- 14% to 52% +/- 11% at rest and from 31% +/- 14% to 58% +/- 13% during exercise (P less than 0.01). Time constant of diastolic relaxation was significantly reduced after revascularization. In 2 patients with pathological findings on postoperative coronarangiography, EF remained unchanged. Both global and regional contractility improved following surgery. Regional analysis indicated that improved EF at rest occurred in regions developing ischaemia during exercise before CABG and in regions showing typical mismatch in 82Rubidium-2-fluoro-2-desoxyglucose suggesting the presence of hibernating myocardium.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Coronary artery bypass grafting combined with aortic valve replacement in healthy octogenarians does not increase postoperative risk

OBJECTIVE: Critical aortic stenosis with or without coronary artery disease is increasingly common in octogenarians. Surgery is the treatment of choice, but indications and results of aortic valve replacement (AVR), particularly when combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) are debated. We investigated whether the combined procedure of AVR and CABG increased postoperative risk compared with isolated AVR in otherwise healthy octogenarians. DESIGN: In the period 1994-1998, AVR was performed in 94 patients above 80 years, the majority in NYHA class III and IV. Combined AVR and CABG was performed in 52/94 patients. The patients were studied retrospectively by collecting data from hospital records and followed for 0-7 years. RESULTS: Mean age was 82 +/- 2.3 years, sex (male/female) 33/61, left ventricular ejection fraction 70 +/- 18%, transvalvular peak pressure gradient 63 +/- 20 mmHg and aortic valve area 0.5 +/- 0.2 cm(2). Early mortality (< 30 days) was 4/42 (9.5%) after AVR and 4/52 (7.6%) after AVR and CABG (p = NS between groups). Three-year survival was 33/42 (78.5%) after AVR and 42/52 (80.7%) after AVR and CABG (p = NS between groups). CONCLUSION: AVR with concomitant CABG in octogenarians with aortic stenosis who are otherwise healthy, may be performed without increased risk.     

Outcome of geometric endoventricular repair in impaired left ventricular function

BACKGROUND: Traditionally, repair of left ventricular aneurysms has been limited to patients with large localized ventricular aneurysms. Repair of dyskinetic segments in the setting of poor left ventricular function is still contentious. METHODS: Forty patients underwent geometric endoventricular repair, a new technique of ventricular aneurysm repair, over a 2-year period. Two groups of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for left ventricular dysfunction in the same time period were reviewed. Group 1 comprised 23 consecutive patients who underwent geometric endo-ventricular repair along with CABGs, whereas group II consisted of 22 patients who underwent CABG alone. RESULTS: The early mortality was 9.1% in group I (1 cardiac, 1 noncardiac) and 0 in group II (NS). New York Heart Association class was remarkably improved from 3.4 to 1.4 (p < 0.05) in group I and to a lesser extent in group II (3.7+/-0.5 versus 2.3+/-0.5). Diastolic dimension of left ventricle was significantly reduced from 5.6 cm to 4.4 cm (p < 0.05) in group I and virtually unchanged in group II. There was one late death in each of the groups. CONCLUSIONS: This technique of geometric left ventricular aneurysm repair is useful in patients with dyskinetic segments and may help in reducing cardiac size.     

Clinical improvement and long-term survival after surgical treatment of postinfarction left ventricular aneurysm

Left ventricular aneurysmectomy was performed on 45 men and 12 women (mean age 57 years) during a 12-year period. The hospital mortality was 14% and the cumulative 5-year survival 57% +/- 9 (SE). Of 35 survivors, 33 underwent a follow-up study (mean 28 months post-operatively). The mean cardiothoracic index fell from 0.58 +/- 0.08 (SD) to 0.51 +/- 0.04 and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) improved from 0.30 +/- 0.08 to 0.38 +/- 0.01 (both changes significant). Echocardiographic parameters showed no significant improvement in left ventricular function. The NYHA classification was I or II in 85% of the patients at follow-up, but in only 23% preoperatively. Preoperative EF greater than or equal to 0.30 was associated with 76% +/- 16 (SE) cumulative 5-year survival as compared with 31% +/- 12 when EF had been less than 0.30. In view of these results, left ventricular aneurysmectomy should be recommended for all symptomatic patients.     

The beneficial effect of revascularization on jeopardized myocardium: reverse remodeling and improved long-term prognosis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of viability/ischemia before revascularization on improvement in systolic performance, reverse remodeling, symptoms and long-term prognosis post-revascularization. METHODS: Fifty patients underwent thallium-201 imaging before revascularization to assess stress-induced ischemia and viability ('jeopardized myocardium'). Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), LV end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) and LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) were determined before and 3 months post-revascularization. Graft/vessel patency was controlled by repeat angiography. Long-term follow-up data (New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, hard events) were acquired up to 3 years. RESULTS: Patients with > or = 5 jeopardized segments on thallium-201 imaging demonstrated improvement of LVEF at 3 months (from 35+/-6 to 43+/-6%, P<0.001), with reverse remodeling (LVESVI decreased from 68+/-16 to 52+/-14 ml/m(2), P<0.001; LVEDVI decreased from 103+/-21 to 91+/-18 ml/m(2), P<0.001), and improved in NYHA class with excellent long-term prognosis (0% event rate). Conversely, patients with <5 jeopardized segments failed to improve in LVEF (34+/-4 vs. 33+/-7%, NS), and exhibited ongoing remodeling (LVESVI increased from 70+/-14 to 78+/-23 ml/m(2), P<0.001; LVEDVI increased from 106+/-19 to 116+/-25 ml/m(2), P<0.001), without improvement in NYHA class, and worse long-term prognosis (29% event rate). CONCLUSION: Patients with jeopardized myocardium benefit from revascularization with improvement in LVEF, reverse remodeling, improvement in NYHA class and favorable long-term prognosis.     

Nineteen-millimeter prosthetic aortic valves allow normalization of left ventricular mass in elderly women

BACKGROUND: Implantation of small aortic valve prostheses has been reported to be associated with impaired left ventricular (LV) mass regression and incomplete resolution of symptoms although these data have been generated largely with male patients. Therefore we sought to determine the clinical and hemodynamic outcomes of female patients who received a 19-mm aortic valve. METHODS: Between May 1995 and December 2000, 38 female patients (average age 73 years, range 42 to 89) underwent isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR; n = 22) or AVR plus coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG; n = 16) with a 19-mm aortic prosthesis. The average New York Heart Association (NYHA) class was 3.08 and of the 26 patients who had angina, 47.2% were in CCS class III or IV. Clinical and echocardiographic follow-up was done an average of 33.4 months (8 to 72) after surgery. RESULTS: Operative mortality was 10.5%. Overall survival at an average of 33 months was 71.1%. The average NYHA class was 1.52 +/- 0.34 postoperatively (p < 0.001 versus preoperative) and 95% had no anginal symptoms or were in Canadian Cardiovascular Society class I. The LV mass index showed significant regression (114 +/- 11 g/m2 to 89 +/- 9 g/m2, p = 0.001) despite an effective orifice area index (EOAI) of 0.64 +/- 0.09 cm2/m2. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a very small EOAI, elderly female patients with 19-mm prosthetic aortic valves can experience a satisfactory improvement in symptoms and normalization of LV mass. This finding suggests that small prosthetic aortic valves continue to have an application in contemporary cardiac surgical practice. The current perception of patient-prosthesis mismatch may need to be reconsidered for select populations.     

Does moderate mitral regurgitation impact early or mid-term clinical outcome in patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis?

OBJECTIVE: The early and mid-term impact of functional mitral regurgitation (MR) in patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR) for aortic stenosis remains unresolved. METHOD: Through our institutional databank, using a case-match study, we identified 58 patients with MR grades 0-1 and 58 patients with MR grades 2-3 (patients matched for sex, age, ejection fraction (EF), NYHA, diabetes, and CVA). Data were collected prospectively (mean duration of follow-up: 3.2 +/- 2.4 years). RESULTS: Perioperative morbidity (re-operation for bleeding, low cardiac output, CVA, renal failure) was comparable among groups. Difference in mortality between the two groups was non-significant (7.0 vs. 3.5%, P = 0.67 in groups MR 2-3 vs. 0-1, respectively). At early echocardiographic follow-up, 7/58 patients (12.1%) within group MR grades 0-1 increased their MR to grades 2-3; among which only two remained with MR grades 2-3 at mid-term follow-up. Within MR group 2-3, 18/58 (31.0%) remained with MR grades 2-3 among which 7/18 (38.9%) decreased of at least one grade at follow-up. Eight year actuarial survival was comparable in both groups: MR grades 0-1 = 60.9% vs. MR grades 2-3 = 55.0%; P = 0.1. Actuarial survival of patients with MR grades 2-3 postoperatively was similar to patients with MR grades 0-1 (MR grades 0-1 = 59.0%, MR grades 2-3 = 58.9%, P = NS). CONCLUSIONS: Presence of preoperative moderate functional MR (grades 2-3) in patients undergoing isolated AVR for aortic stenosis regresses in the majority of patients postoperatively and has no significant impact on perioperative morbidity or mortality, nor mid-term survival. Thus, moderate functional MR should be treated conservatively in the majority of patients especially in the elderly subjected to isolated AVR for aortic stenosis.     

Influence of aorto-coronary bypass surgery on left ventricular function and prognosis in patients with severe left coronary artery disease

The effects of aorto-coronary bypass surgery on left ventricular (LV) function and prognosis were studied in 21 patients with severe left coronary artery disease consisted of 8 left main trunk (LMT) stenosis and 17 left main equivalent (LME) that is the combined disease of left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex coronary arteries proximal to the origin of their major branches. One of 21 cases had bypass grafts occluded on the postoperative angiogram. The other 20 cases consisted of 10 cases with previous transmural myocardial infarction (PTMI) and 10 without PTMI had all bypass grafts opened including 20 grafts to LAD. In 10 cases without PTMI, all of LV function parameters markedly improved postoperatively. In the other 10 cases with PTMI, LV ejection fraction significantly increased from 0.53 +/- 0.07 preoperatively to 0.67 +/- 0.04 postoperatively (p less than 0.005). PLVSP/LVESV also increased from 1.85 +/- 0.66 to 2.89 +/- 1.16 (p less than 0.05). In both groups, LV segmental wall motion (SWM) increased in the anterior and apical segment, whereas did not in the postero-inferior segment. In the case with occluded grafts LV function was deteriorated postoperatively. Even in the cases which anterior SWM showed less than 30% (the lowest value in the normal subjects), anterior and apical SWM significantly increased postoperatively in both groups. Angina disappeared postoperatively in all cases but one with PTMI. All cases showed NYHA class III to IV preoperatively, then class I to II postoperatively. Postoperative 8 years actuarial survival rate was 91.0%.