Early and long-term outcome of mitral valve repair with a Cosgrove band combined with coronary revascularization in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and moderate-severe mitral regurgitation

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: Clinical and echocardiographic results were investigated to evaluate mitral valve repair in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) with moderately severe mitral regurgitation (MR). METHODS: A total of 78 patients (21 women, 57 men; mean age 69.5 +/- 7.8 years) with ischemic mitral regurgitation underwent mitral valve repair and CABG. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 42.4 +/- 12.4%. Among the patients, 19 (24.4%) had preoperative congestive heart failure (CHF). This surgery constituted a second such operation in five patients (6.4%). The MR was grade 3+ in 28 patients (35.9%) and 4+ in 50 (64.1%). The mean number of grafts was 3.6 per patient. RESULTS: Hospital mortality was 11.5% (n = 9). Risk factors for early mortality were preoperative NYHA class > or = III (p = 0.014), preoperative heart failure (p <0.001) and reoperation (p = 0.002). The five-year survival was 82.6 +/- 5.9%, and freedom from grade > or =2+ MR was 93.1 +/- 4.1%. Postoperatively, 66 patients (89.6%) were in NYHA class I and seven (9.4%) in class II, demonstrating a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.03). Late echocardiography showed a significant improvement in LVEF (from 42.4 +/- 12.4% to 51.7 +/- 10.9%; p = 0.01) and a reduction in pulmonary artery pressure (from 37.6 +/- 11.9 mmHg to 29.3 +/- 7.4 mmHg; p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: It is concluded that in patients with ICM, mitral valve repair combined with CABG provides a dramatic improvement in ejection fraction and in CHF, with excellent long-term survival, even in patients with a low LVEF.     

Posterior mitral leaflet repair with a simple segmental annulus support: the 'double-Teflon technique'

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE STUDY: The study aim was to present immediate and late results of a modified technique for mitral valve repair--the 'double-Teflon technique'. This consists of quadrangular resection of the posterior leaflet, annulus plication with 'pledgetted' stitches over a Teflon patch, and leaflet suture. METHODS: Seventy-two patients (41 males, 31 females; mean age 60.5+/-11.9 years) with mitral insufficiency due to myxomatous degeneration and ruptured or elongated chordae tendineae underwent mitral valve repair with this technique. Fifteen patients (18%) had associated cardiovascular disease including coronary artery disease, aortic insufficiency, aortic stenosis and atrial septal defect. Operative, immediate postoperative and late operative echocardiographic data of the first 29 patients were analyzed. Actuarial survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS: There was one operative death (1%). By the late postoperative period, 95% of survivors were in NYHA functional class I. There were no episodes of hemolysis or endocarditis; the linearized rate for thromboembolism was 1.4%/patient-year. Actuarial survival at 72 months was 94.5+/-3.2%. Doppler echocardiography showed a significant decrease in mean left atrial diameter (p = 0.0001) and left ventricular diastolic diameter (p = 0.0003). CONCLUSION: Mitral valve repair with the 'double-Teflon technique' is associated with low operative mortality, satisfactory survival rates, and good clinical outcome.     

Changes of myocardial function after combined coronary revascularization and mitral valve downsizing in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation and advanced cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVE: At present not much data is available on changes in myocardial function after combined coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and downsizing of the mitral valve (MV) by restrictive prosthetic ring annuloplasty in patients with chronic ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) and advanced cardiomyopathy. METHODS: 63 patients with coronary artery disease, chronic IMR grade 3 - 4+, ischemic cardiomyopathy and reduced left ventricular (LV) function (LV ejection fraction [LVEF] of 30 +/- 9 %; range 12 - 45 %) underwent combined CABG and MV downsizing. Clinical follow-up and serial echocardiographic studies were performed to assess survival, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, mitral regurgitation (MR), leaflet coaptation height (LCH), left atrial (LA) and LV end-systolic/end-diastolic dimensions/volumes and volume indices (LVESD, -EDD; LVESV, -EDV; LVESVI, -EDVI), fractional shortening (FS) and LVEF to evaluate the changes in myocardial function after surgery. RESULTS: Early mortality (< 30 days) was 1.6 %, survival at follow-up was 95 % (3 +/- 1 months) and 83 % (2 +/- 1 years), respectively. Functional class improved significantly after surgery; recurrence of relevant MR was absent in all patients. In general, LA/LV dimensions/volumes and volume indices, FS and LVEF improved significantly, even in patients with already severely reduced preoperative LV function (LVEF 相似文献   

Ischemic mitral valve regurgitation grade II-III: correction in patients with impaired left ventricular function undergoing simultaneous coronary revascularization.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: Mitral valve regurgitation (MVR), occurring as a result of myocardial ischemia and global left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, is predictive of poor outcome. The study aim was to assess the feasibility of mitral valve surgery concomitant with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with ischemic MVR grade II-III and impaired LV function. METHODS: Between January 1996 and July 2000, 99 patients with grade II and III ischemic MVR and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) 17-30% underwent either combined mitral valve surgery and CABG (group I, n = 49) or isolated CABG (group II, n = 50). LVEF (%), LV end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD; mm), LV end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP; mmHg), LV end-systolic diameter (LVESD; mm) respectively were 27.5+/-5, 67.7+/-7, 27.7+/-4 and 51.4+/-7 in group I versus 27.8+/-4, 67.5+/-6, 27.5+/-5 and 51.2+/-6 in group II. In group I, mitral valve repair was performed in 43 patients (88%) and replacement in six (12%). RESULTS: Preoperative data analysis showed no difference between groups. Five patients (10%) died in group I, compared with six (12%) in group II (p = NS). Within six months of surgery, LV function and geometry improved significantly in group I versus group II (LVEF, p <0.001; LVEDD, p = 0.002; LVESD, p = 0.003, LVEDP, p <0.001); only mild improvements were seen in group II. The regurgitation fraction decreased significantly in group I patients after surgery (p <0.001). Cardiac index increased significantly in groups I and II (p <0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). In group I at follow up, four of six patients undergoing mitral valve replacement died, compared with five of 43 patients (11.5%) undergoing mitral valve repair (p = 0.007). At three years, the overall survival in group II was significantly lower than in group I (p <0.009). CONCLUSION: Both MV repair and replacement preserving subvalvular apparatus in patients with impaired LV function offered acceptable outcome in terms of morbidity and survival. Surgical correction of grade II-III MVR in patients with impaired LV function should be taken into consideration as it provides better survival and improves LV function.     

Results of video-assisted mitral surgery in a non-selected population

A prospective 'analysis of operative risk and results in video-assisted mitral valve surgery performed in a non selected population is reported. Seventy two consecutive patients (1997-2004) with mean age 60 +/- 12 years underwent a video-assisted mitral valve procedure using a femoral CPB. A transthoracic direct aortic clamping was done in 28 patients (TT) and an endo-aortic occlusion balloon was used in 44 patients (Endo). The surgical approach was a right lateral minithoracotomy in all cases; 16 patients had a previous cardiac surgery. The expected mitral operation (39 repairs, 33 replacements) was done in all cases, without conversion. There were 4 early deaths (1 st month), all in Endo group: 1 aortic dissection, 1 heart failure and 2 sudden deaths. Postoperative complication occurred in 17 patients with 5 reoperations for hemostasis of the thoracic wall. Cumulative rate of mortality and morbidity was 29% in Endo and 28% in TT (ns). Hospital stay was 8 +/- 2 days. At discharge, 4 patients had a residual grade 2 echocardiographic mitral regurgitation after valve repair. In January 2005, with a 1.8 years follow-up, there were 4 late deaths, 3 patients underwent a valve reoperation, 2 patients were still in NYHA class 3 and 5 patients had a residual grade 1 or 2 mitral regurgitation. The 3-year actuarial survival was 86 +/- 10% and the 3-year probability to be free of reoperation was 95 +/- 6%. In mitral valve surgery, video-assisted approach is reliable, the operative risk is controlled and midterm results are not compromised. Video-assisted mitral valve surgery is a new less invasive standard; it is the procedure of choice in valve replacement, in reoperation and in non complex valve repair with good cosmetic results.     

Valve repair for rheumatic mitral disease

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF STUDY: Mitral valve repair is the standard reparative technique for degenerative mitral disease, but results of valve repair in rheumatic disease are also encouraging. The outcomes after mitral valve repair for rheumatic disease at young age was evaluated for suitability of repair. METHODS: A total of 319 patients (246 females, 73 males; mean age 31.3+/-0.5 years) underwent mitral valve repair for rheumatic mitral disease at the authors' institution between 1991 and 1998. Mean follow up was 51.9+/-1.2 months (range: 9-98 months), and was 88.7% complete. RESULTS: Preoperatively, 47.6% of patients were in NYHA classes III and IV. Mitral stenosis was present in 87.5%, insufficiency in 5.3%, and stenosis/insufficiency in 7.2%. Concomitant procedures were performed in 32% of patients who had associated cardiac lesions. The intraoperative mortality, reoperation and reoperation mortality rates were 0.9%, 6.7% and 0%, respectively. During follow up there were 10 late deaths (3.5%), six of which were cardiac disease-related (2.1%). Postoperatively, 98% of patients were in NYHA classes I and II. CONCLUSION: Valve repair in mitral disease is a standard technique, with low mortality, complication and reoperation rates, and good cardiac function and late survival. This approach is equally applicable to rheumatic mitral valve repair; hence, rheumatic mitral valves should also be repaired.     

Cardiac valve reoperations: analysis of operative risk factors in 154 patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE STUDY: The study aim was to evaluate the operative risks of reoperation on heart valve prostheses. METHODS: Between January 1985 and December 2000, 154 patients (79 males, 75 females, mean age 61.2+/-9.5 years) underwent cardiac valve reoperation for which indications were prosthetic failure (n = 133; prosthetic mitro-aortic dysfunction occurred in 16 cases), native valve disease in patients with a previous prosthetic valve implantation (n = 12), and both situations concomitantly (n = 9). Total valve replacements numbered 161 (64 in the aortic position, 96 in the mitral position, and one in the tricuspid position). There were 18 valve repairs (eight in the mitral position, 10 in the aortic position). One patient underwent prosthesis thrombectomy (mechanical valve). RESULTS: Overall operative mortality was 8.4% (n = 13); emergency operation (p <0.002), advanced NYHA class (p <0.026), indication for reoperation (p <0.026), gender (p <0.016) and number of previous reoperations (p = 0.05) were independent determinants for reoperation. Non-significant determinants were age and position of replacement. CONCLUSION: Correct planning of reoperation timing reduces operative risks due to NYHA class (3.8% mortality rate for class II-III versus 21.7% for class IV), and to urgent-emergency procedures (35.7% mortality versus 6.5% for elective operations). The high operative risk of prosthesis thrombosis is a deterrent to implanting mechanical prostheses in patients with disorders of hemostasis.     

Long-term results of the surgical treatment of chronic ischemic mitral regurgitation: comparison of repair and prosthetic replacement

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: The optimal management of chronic ischemic mitral regurgitation (CIMR) remains controversial. Herein, the authors reviewed the past 10 years of their experience to compare the long-term results of mitral valve repair with prosthetic replacement. METHODS: Between January 1993 and January 2003, 102 patients (mean age 67.8 years; range: 51-80 years) with a preoperative diagnosis of CIMR, underwent mitral valve repair (n = 61; 59.8%) or prosthetic replacement (n = 41; 40.2%), along with myocardial revascularization (2.5 +/- 1.0 distal anastomoses per patients, internal thoracic artery used in 78.5%). A Carpentier Classic ring was always used in the repair procedures. The two groups were homogeneous for preoperative characteristics and comorbidities. RESULTS: Total operative mortality was 7.8% (repair 8.2%; prosthesis 7.3%; p = NS). The five-year actuarial survival (operative mortality included) was 66.6 +/- 7.4% for repair and 73.4 +/- 8.7% for prosthesis (p = NS). Cox multivariate analysis showed as independent risk factor for late survival a preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < or = 30% (RR 3.91; 95% CI = 1.47-10.38) and a preoperative pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) > or = 35 mumHg (RR 2.74; 95% CI = 1.07-7.02), while the type of mitral procedure was not significant. Patients with annular dilation as a mechanism of regurgitation were significant more likely to undergo repair rather than receive a prosthesis. Their preoperative LVEF and PAP were significantly worse than patients who had altered leaflet motion as a regurgitation mechanism. CONCLUSION: Prosthetic mitral replacement and valve repair offer very similar results for CIMR. When a perfect repair is not easily feasible, cardiac surgeons should not hesitate to perform mitral valve replacement, as it is an excellent alternative therapy, though long-term outcome is mainly dependent on preoperative condition.     

Mitral valve surgery in patients with poor left ventricular function

BACKGROUND: Mitral valve surgery for the correction of secondary mitral valve regurgitation (MR) in cardiomyopathy is associated with a poor outcome. Numerous studies have identified a severe left ventricular dysfunction as an indicator for a poor prognosis. The aim of the study was to asses the follow-up after mitral valve surgery and severe left ventricular dysfunction. METHODS: Between 1994 and 2000, 31 patients with mitral regurgitation and a left ventricular ejection fraction of below thirty percent undergoing isolated repair (n = 16) or replacement (n = 15) were investigated. All patients received maximal drug therapy. Twenty-one patients were New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III and 10 were class IV. Follow-up with echocardiography, ECG, and chest x-ray was performed in 87 % of the survivors. The mean duration of follow-up was 39 +/- 16 months. RESULTS: The mean duration of ICU and hospital stay was 3.6 +/- 2.1 days and 8.1 +/- 5.4 days, respectively. The 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival rates were 91 %, 84 %, and 77 %, respectively. NYHA class improved from 3.3 +/- 0.8 to 2.1 +/- 0.7 at follow-up (p < 0.01). The ejection fraction improved from 23.1 +/- 6.6 % to 36 +/- 6.8 % at follow-up (p < 0.02). Freedom from readmission for heart failure was 85 %, 79 %, and 68 % at 1-, 2-, and 5 years, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Mitral valve surgery improves left ventricular function and reduces heart failure severity in patients with MR and cardiomyopathy. High-risk mitral valve surgery may be an alternative to heart transplantation in selected patients.     

Predictors of outcome in patients with prosthetic valve dysfunction

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: The study aim, based on the authors' experience in patients with prosthetic valve dysfunction, was to investigate risk factors for mortality and morbidity by analyzing preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables with respect to early and long-term survival. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was carried out of 132 patients (47 men, 85 women; mean age 46.8 +/- 12.4 years) who presented for treatment of prosthetic valve dysfunction between December 1992 and February 2003. Two patients received thrombolytic therapy and were excluded from the statistical analysis, which comprised only operatively treated patients; four patients underwent successful surgical repair of mitral mechanical prostheses; all other patients (except two who died perioperatively) underwent prosthetic valve re-replacement (n = 124). RESULTS: Overall mortality and hospital mortality rates were 15.2% and 10.6%, respectively. Postoperatively, 54 complications were seen in 42 patients (32.3%). Preoperative left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD) > or = 45 mm and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time > 140 min were independent risk factors for overall and in-hospital mortality. Female gender, age > 60 years and prolonged CPB time were predictors of postoperative complications. The actuarial survival rate was 87.5 +/- 0.3% at five years, and 81.7 +/- 0.4% at 10 years. A reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was the only independent predictor of late death and long-term survival. CONCLUSION: Preoperative LVESD > or = 45 mm and lower LVEF were found to be independent predictors of postoperative mortality and late survival, respectively. It is possible to obtain a substantial improvement in outcome and long-term survival if a valvular reoperation can be performed with shorter CPB time and before left ventricular dysfunction has developed.     

Surgical ventricular restoration in the treatment of congestive heart failure due to post-infarction ventricular dilation

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to test how surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) affects early and late survival in a registry of 1,198 post-anterior infarction congestive heart failure (CHF) patients treated by the international Reconstructive Endoventricular Surgery returning Torsion Original Radius Elliptical shape to the left ventricle (RESTORE)team. BACKGROUND: Congestive heart failure may be caused by late left ventricular (LV) dilation after anterior infarction. The infarcted segment is often akinetic rather than dyskinetic because early reperfusion prevents transmural necrosis. Previously, only dyskinetic areas were treated by operation. Surgical ventricular restoration reduces LV volume and creates a more elliptical chamber by excluding scar in either akinetic or dyskinetic segments. METHODS: The RESTORE group applied SVR to 1,198 post-infarction patients between 1998 and 2003. Early and late outcomes were examined, and risk factors were identified. RESULTS: Concomitant procedures included coronary artery bypass grafting in 95%, mitral valve repair in 22%, and mitral valve replacement in 1%. Overall 30-day mortality after SVR was 5.3% (8.7% with mitral repair vs. 4.0% without repair; p < 0.001). Perioperative mechanical support was uncommon (<9%). Global systolic function improved postoperatively. Ejection fraction (EF) increased from 29.6 +/- 11.0% preoperatively to 39.5 +/- 12.3% postoperatively (p < 0.001). The left ventricular end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) decreased from 80.4 +/- 51.4 ml/m(2) preoperatively to 56.6 +/- 34.3 ml/m(2) postoperatively (p < 0.001). Overall five-year survival was 68.6 +/- 2.8%. Logistic regression analysis identified EF or=80 ml/m(2), advanced New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, and age >or=75 years as risk factors for death. Five-year freedom from hospital readmission for CHF was 78%. Preoperatively, 67% of patients were NYHA functional class III or IV and postoperatively, 85% were class I or II. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical ventricular restoration improves ventricular function and is highly effective therapy in the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy with excellent five-year outcome.     

Results following valve replacement for ischemic mitral regurgitation

BACKGROUND: Although several authors have favoured mitral repair in ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR), mitral valve replacement is a valuable option and most often a necessity in patients with structural IMR. OBJECTIVE: To review the authors' experience with valve replacement for patients with acute and chronic IMR. The effect of preserving the valve leaflets and the subvalvular apparatus during replacement was also evaluated. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The authors' experience with mitral valve replacement for IMR between 1990 and 1999 was retrospectively analyzed at the Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Quebec. Results obtained with mitral valve replacement due to degenerative disease were used for comparative purposes. RESULTS: Ninety-two patients with IMR and 213 patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation underwent valve replacement with mechanical prostheses (262 of 305 [86%]) or biological prostheses (43 of 305 [14%]). Fifteen patients (15 of 92 [16%]) died within 30 days of mitral valve replacement among IMR patients compared with eight (eight of 213 [4%)] among patients with degenerative mitral valve disease (P=0.01). The seven-year survival average following mitral valve replacement was 66+/-7% in patients with ischemic disease compared with 72+/-4% in patients with degenerative disease (P=0.07). Cardiopulmonary bypass time (odds ratio [OR] 1.01) and emergency operation (OR 2.5) were correlated with the 30-day mortality; the patient's age (OR 1.04) was the only risk factor correlated with the seven-year mortality after valve replacement. The five-year survival of patients with papillary muscle rupture averaged 59+/-12% compared with 78+/-7% in those with functional IMR. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative risk factors and higher early mortality in patients with mitral valve replacement for ischemic disease contribute to a lower seven-year survival than with mitral valve surgery for degenerative disease. The short and long term survival of the patients in the acute structural mitral disease subgroup was significantly worse.     

Surgical treatment of infective mitral valve endocarditis: predictors of early and late outcome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE STUDY: The study aim was to review our experience in surgical treatment of infective mitral valve endocarditis, and to identify predictors of early and late outcome. METHODS: Ninety-one consecutive patients (52 males, 39 females, mean age 55.6 years) underwent surgery between 1973 and 1997 for endocarditis of isolated mitral (n = 65, 71%), mitral and aortic (n = 25, 28%) and mitral, aortic and tricuspid valves (n = 1, 1%). Native valve endocarditis (NVE) was present in 60 patients (66%) and prosthetic valve endocarditis (PVE) in 31 (34%). The main indications for surgery were heart failure in 32 patients, valve dysfunction in 23, vegetations in 21, and persistent sepsis in 11. Eighty-six patients (95%) were in NYHA classes III-IV, and 58 (64%) had active culture-positive endocarditis at surgery. Mechanical valves were implanted in 73 patients and bioprosthetic valves in 13; valves were repaired in five patients. The impact of 46 parameters on early and late outcome was defined by means of univariate and multivariate statistical analysis. Follow up was complete (mean 5.5 years; range: 0-23.1 years; total 507.3 patient-years). RESULTS: Operative mortality rate was 11% (n = 10). Recurrent infection was recorded in five patients (6%), and reoperation was required in eight (9%). Freedom from recurrent infection and reoperation at 10 years was 89.1% and 87.8% respectively. There were 22 late deaths, 15 from cardiac causes. Actuarial survival rates for all patients at 5, 10 and 15 years were 73.0%, 62.7% and 58.7% (for hospital survivors, the corresponding rates were 81.9%, 69.7% and 66.0%). On multiple logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models, the following were independent predictors: preoperative pulmonary edema (p = 0.01) for operative mortality; PVE (p = 0.02) for recurrence; younger age (p = 0.02) and PVE (p = 0.02) for reoperation; male gender (p = 0.004) and longer ITU stay for survival (if all patients were included); male gender (p = 0.01) and myocardial invasion by infection (p = 0.02) for survival (if only the hospital survivors were analyzed). CONCLUSION: Surgery for infective mitral valve endocarditis carries a relatively high, though acceptable, risk but provides satisfactory freedom from recurrent infection, reoperation and improved long-term survival. Analysis of these data demonstrated that the preoperative hemodynamic status was the major predictor of in-hospital outcome, PVE increased the risk for recurrent infection and reoperation, whereas male gender and myocardial invasion by the infective process critically reduced the probability of long-term survival. The type of offending pathogen, the activity of infection and the involvement of more than one valve did not appear to influence early and/or late outcome.     

Surgical management of acute mitral valve regurgitation due to post-infarction papillary muscle rupture

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: Acute myocardial infarction associated with mitral papillary muscle rupture and cardiogenic shock carries a high mortality. Data relating to early and late survival after emergency mitral valve surgery and concomitant complete coronary artery revascularization in this patient population were analyzed. METHODS: Between January 1988 and December 1998, 21 consecutive patients (mean age 62+/-9.7 years) underwent emergency coronary and concomitant mitral valve surgery for acute myocardial infarction and mitral papillary muscle rupture associated with cardiogenic shock. Mitral valve replacement was performed in 19 patients (90%), and mitral valve repair in two (10%). An average of 2.2 distal anastomoses per patient was performed. Revascularization was complete in 19 patients (90%). Preoperatively, intra-aortic balloon pumping was used in 11 patients (52%), and two (10%) had salvage surgery when arriving at the operating room under cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Early and late follow up was complete; mean follow up was 5+/-3 years (range: 16 months to 12 years). RESULTS: Thirty-day mortality was 19% (4/21), with two cardiac-related early deaths (10%). Early morbidity included perioperative stroke in 6% (1/17), myocardial infarction in 6% (1/17), and need for hemodialysis in 18% (3/17). There were three late deaths; one was cardiac-related. Actuarial survival at one, five and 10 years was 81, 68 and 56%, respectively. All survivors were in NYHA class I or II. CONCLUSION: Emergency surgery for acute post-infarction mitral papillary muscle rupture is justified, even as a salvage procedure. Concomitant mitral valve surgery and complete coronary artery revascularization achieve acceptable survival rates and satisfactory functional results.     

Minimally invasive video-assisted mitral valve repair: short and mid-term results

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY: Port-Access video-assisted surgery for mitral valve repair has become an alternative for mid-sternotomy. However, mid-term results are not yet available. METHODS: Between February 1997 and December 1999, 121 patients underwent mitral valve surgery through a 4- to 5-cm right anterolateral thoracotomy using the Heartport endovascular cardiopulmonary bypass system; among these patients, 77 (57 males, 20 females; mean age 59 years; range 31-84 years) underwent mitral valve repair. Severe (4+) mitral regurgitation (MR) was seen in 63 patients (82%). Mean NYHA class was 2.5+/-0.4. Standard Carpentier mitral valve repair procedures were used in all patients; 11 received PTFE chordae for anterior leaflet prolapse. RESULTS: Pathologies were degenerative (n = 69), chronic endocarditis (n = 4), annular dilatation (n = 3) and rheumatic (n = 1). Hospital mortality was 1.3% (n = 1). Two patients (2.6%) had conversion to sternotomy for aortic dissection caused by the Endo-Aortic Clamp. Nine patients (11%) underwent revision for bleeding. Mean cross-clamp and perfusion times were 103 min (range: 24-160 min) and 140 min (range: 75-215 min), respectively. Mean hospital stay was eight days (range: 4-36 days). During follow up (mean 31 months; range: 17-51 months) all patients improved their NYHA class; eight (11%) remained in class II. Left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic and LV end-systolic diameters decreased from 61+/-7.3 mm to 53+/-6.9 mm (p <0.01) and from 37+/-6.8 mm to 34+/-6.9 mm (p <0.05), respectively. Sixty-two patients (88%) had no or trivial MR, and nine (12%) had moderate MR (2+). There were two late valve replacements for endocarditis, and no late deaths. CONCLUSION: Port-Access mitral valve repair constitutes a valid alternative to the standard procedure, and has good mid-term results. Video-assisted mitral valve repair appears to be safe and reproducible.     

Surgical ventricular restoration: the RESTORE Group experience

Congestive heart failure may be caused by late left ventricular (LV) dilation following anterior infarction. Early reperfusion prevents transmural necrosis, and makes the infarcted segment akinetic rather than dyskinetic. Surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) reduces LV volume and creates a more elliptical chamber by excluding scar in either akinetic or dyskinetic segments.The international RESTORE group applied SVR in a registry of 1198 post-infarction patients between 1998 and 2003. Early and late outcomes were examined and risk factors identified.Concomitant procedures included coronary artery bypass grafting in 95%, mitral valve repair in 22%, and mitral valve replacement in 1%. Overall 30-day mortality after SVR was 5.3% (8.7% with mitral repair vs. 4.0% without repair, p < .001) Perioperative mechanical support was uncommon (< 9%).Global systolic function improved postoperatively, as ejection fraction increased from 29.6 +/- 11.0% to 39.5 +/- 12.3% (p < .001) and left ventricular end systolic volume index decreased from 80.4 +/- 51.4 ml/m(2) to 56.6 +/- 34.3 ml/m(2) (p < .001). Overall 5-year survival was 68.6 +/- 2.8%, Logistic regression analysis identified EF < or = 30%, LVESVI > o = 80 ml/m(2), advanced NYHA functional class, and age > or =75 years as risk factors for death. Five-year freedom from hospital readmission for CHF was 78%. Preoperatively, 67% of patients were class III or IV, and postoperatively 85% were class I or II.SVR improves ventricular function and is highly effective therapy in the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy with excellent 5-year outcome.     

Effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy on disease progression in patients with congestive heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) represents a new therapeutic modality of proven efficacy for selected patients with heart failure and ventricular asynchrony. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of CRT on clinical variables and cardiac remodeling in patients with moderate-to-severe congestive heart failure and inter/intraventricular conduction delays. METHODS: Thirty-seven patients (32 males, 5 females, mean age 73 +/- 7 years), in NYHA functional class III-IV, with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < or = 35%, QRS > or = 150 ms, and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) > or = 55 mm, underwent CRT by biventricular pacing (InSync, InSync III, InSync ICD; Medtronic Inc.). Fourteen (37.8%) had a previous pacemaker, and 11 (29.7%) were in permanent atrial fibrillation. The QRS width, NYHA functional class, LVEDD, left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESD), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular endsystolic volume (LVESV), and LVEF were retrospectively evaluated in the period before CRT. For the purposes of the present study, the pre-CRT period was divided in two: T(-2) (from 6 to 3 years) and T(-1) (from 3 years to CRT). Moreover, these parameters were measured at the time of CRT (T0) and prospectively in the post-CRT follow-up (Tp). RESULTS: Before CRT, a progressive worsening of the parameters was observed. The QRS duration steadily increased from T(-2) to T(-1) and T0 (both p = 0.000). The NYHA functional class increased from T(-2) to T(-1) and T0 (both p = 0.000). LVEDD and LVESD also increased and were higher at T(-1) (p = 0.001 and p = 0.000, respectively) and at T0 (both p = 0.000) compared to T(-2). Similar results were observed for LVEDV and LVESV. Finally, LVEF was higher at T(-2) than T(-1) and T0 (both p = 0.000). After CRT, there was a reduction in the QRS duration and an improvement in the NYHA functional class compared to T0 (both p = 0.000). LVEDD and LVESD were also reduced (p = 0.005 and p = 0.016, respectively), LVEDV and LVESV decreased (both p = 0.000), and LVEF increased (p = 0.000) with respect to T0. A highly significant correlation was found between LVEDD and LVESD both in the pre- and post-CRT time intervals, with a non-significant difference between the two linear regression lines. Similar results were obtained for the correlations between LVEDV and LVESV. CONCLUSIONS: Congestive heart failure is associated with a progressive widening of the QRS complex and a worsening of the clinical status and results in anatomic remodeling with deterioration of the left ventricular function. CRT induces opposite changes in QRS duration, clinical status, and left ventricular remodelling.     

Severe calcified aortic stenosis in patients aged 80 or older. Apropos of 65 cases surgically treated

From 1981 to 1989, 65 patients over 80 years were submitted to surgery for severe calcific aortic stenosis. Thirteen patients were in NYHA II, 31 in NYHA III, 21 in NYHA IV. Mean valve area was 0.52 +/- 0.14 cm2 and mean aortic valve gradient was 62 +/- 18 mmHg. Left ventricular function was altered (ejection fraction less than 40%) in 33 patients. Six patients had a previous balloon aortic valvuloplasty. Bioprosthesis were used in all 65 patients associated to CABG (in 5) and mitral valve replacement (in 1). One month mortality was 19 cases (29%) due to cardiac failure (in 10) pulmonary (in 7) and neurological (in only 2) complications. Early mortality was nearly significantly correlated to NYHA stage (p = 0.08) and preop renal insufficiency (p = 0.07). It was significantly correlated to function (40% mortality when ejection fraction less than 40%, 16% in others) and to operations on emergency basis (5 deaths over 6). Hospital morbidity was 68%. There were 5 late deaths. Among the 41 long-term survivors (3 mths-7yrs) 29 are in NYHA I, 10 in NYHA II and 2 in NYHA III due to valve failure. The actuarial survival probability is 65% at one year, 50% at 5 years. In summary good long-term results justify to take a high post operative risk in octogenarians. Early surgery before left ventricular impairment improves the survival.     

Mid-term results of mitral valve repair for complicated active bacterial endocarditis in high-risk patients

Mitral valve repair in endocarditis achieves a competent valve and prevents septic embolization and acute left ventricular failure, in which operative mortality could be increased. Early and mid-term results were examined to establish whether emergency mitral valve repair offers an advantage in complicated active endocarditis. Ten patients with complicated active native valve endocarditis underwent mitral valve repair. The mean age was 45.8 ± 18.5 years; two patients were female (20%). All patients had severe mitral regurgitation, which combined in one patient with mitral valve stenosis. New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class was IV in all patients. The macroscopically infected tissue with vegetation in all patients was excised. Multiple techniques were required to achieve valve competence. There was one (10%) hospital death in a patient with persistent congestive heart failure, and a reoperation in another (10%) after 2 years. Mean follow-up was 32.1 ± 12.7 months (range 1–45 months) and was complete. There were no late deaths, recurrent endocarditis, or thromboembolic events. Seven patients (77.7%) were in NYHA functional class I, and two (22.2%) were in class II. Mitral valve repair in complicated active bacterial endocarditis limited to leaflet tissues has a low operative mortality and valve-related morbidity, with promising mid-term survival in high-risk patients.     

Artificial chordae for mitral valve repair: mid-term clinical and echocardiographic results

BACKGROUND: This paper reports on the mid-term clinical and echocardiographic results of mitral valve repair with chordal replacement. METHODS: Sixty-nine patients (mean age 61 +/- 14 years) underwent mitral valve repair with chordal replacement. The etiology was degenerative in 53 (77 %), rheumatic in 7 (10 %), ischemic in 6 (9 %) and infective in 3 (4 %). Mean ejection fraction was 58 +/- 14. In 35 patients (51 %), a minimally invasive approach was used. Mean follow-up time was 45 +/- 27 months. RESULTS: Anterior leaflet chordae were replaced in 58 (84 %) patients. There were 3 operative deaths. Freedom from non-trivial recurrent mitral regurgitation (MR) was 81.3 +/- 8.7 % at 97 months. Follow-up echocardiographic controls showed mild recurrent MR in 5 (8 %) patients and moderate in 2 (3.2 %). These two patients required reoperation due to mitral annulus redilation after suture annuloplasty. Competent neochordae were found at reoperation. Freedom from reoperation at 97 months was 96.6 +/- 2.4 %. Four patients died during follow-up resulting in an actuarial survival of 87 +/- 6.2 %. CONCLUSION: The replacement of chordae tendineae with ePTFE sutures during mitral valve repair has shown good mid-term results. The implantation of the neochordae can be also performed safely using minimally invasive procedures.