ObjectiveTo introduce the role of three dementional computed tomograph (3D-CT) for patients underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure in perioperative evaluation. MethodsFrom April 2014 to June 2015, we retrospectively analyzed clinical data of 28 patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent successful TAVI procedure using new second-generation device, who were enrolled in this study including 12 males and 16 females at mean age of 72.8±4.5 years. We used 3D-CT to get the perioperative relative evaluation, including valve morphology and calcification degree, annular diameter, aoronary ostium height, ascending aorta, aortic sinus diameter, left ventricular-aortic angle, optimal intraoperative angiogram projection angle. Based on the evaluation by 3D-CT image, the prosthesis size, balloon size, best intraoperative imaging projection angle and approach of apex were then chosen. ResultsAll patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent successful TAVI procedure with mean logistic Euro-SCORE I:26.2%±7.9%. CT image revealed that mean aortic annular diameter was 24.6±1.8 mm with mean valve prosthesis size 25.8±1.1 mm and pre-dilation balloon size 23.1±1.2 mm and 76.8% patients were of tricuspid aortic valve with severe calcification and 25% patients were of asymmetric calcification. Optimal intraoperative angiogram image was achieved in 92.9% patients with the help of preoperative CT image. There was a statistic difference in mean transvalvular gradient after valve implantation (54.1±15.3 mm Hg vs. 13.1±8.5 mm Hg, P<0.05). And there was no mortality or severe complication postoperatively. Conclusion3D-CT image palys an important role during perioperative evaluation of TAVI procedure and it can be helpful for Chinese doctors to operate TAVI successfully.
Objective To study and test novel hybrid valves in vitro and in vivo, and provide basis for clinical use in future. Methods The hybrid valves were fabricated from decellularized porcine aortic valves coated with poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3hydroxyhexanoate, PHBHHx).（1）In the mechanical test in vitro, the uniaxial tensile biomechanics test of the fresh (n=12), uncoated (n=12) and hybrid valve leaflets (n=12) were investigated. (2）In study in vivo, hybrid valves(n=5) implanted in pulmonary position in sheep without cardiopulmonary bypass. Uncoated grafts (n=5) used as control. The specimens of the hybrid or uncoated valve in sheep were explanted and examined by scanning electron microscopy, histology, calcium content and immunofluorescence staining 18 weeks after surgery. Results The mechanical test in vitro revealed that coating with PHBHHx increased maximal tensile strength of hybrid valves compared with the fresh and uncoated state (P＜0.05). The results in vivo indicated the hybrid valves maintained original shape and softness. Immunofluorescence staining for CD31 confirmed that the surface of hybrid valve was covered by confluent CD31+ cells.The interstitium of hybrid valve indicated that smooth muscle actin (SMA)+ cells population were similar to native valvular tissue. The calcium content of hybrid valve was significantly lower than that of uncoated valve leaflets (P＜0.05). Conclusion Decellularized porcine aortic valves coated with PHBHHx have good biological and biomechanical characteristics. The hybrid valve may provide superior valve replacement with current techniques.
ObjectiveTo study the nursing methods for patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). MethodsFrom April 2012 to August 2013, 25 patients undergoing TAVI before returning to the coronary care unit (CCU) were included in this study. We reviewed the clinical nursing methods and summarized the clinical nursing experiences. ResultsAmong the 25 patients, there were 1 case complicated with retroperitoneal hematoma, 1 case with hemorrhage of upper digestive tract, 1 case with severe hemorrhage of femoral artery incision site, 1 case with mild hemorrhage of femoral artery puncture site, 1 case with catheter-related infections of right external jugular vein, and 2 cases with hemorrhage related to the loosening of radial artery invasive blood pressure monitoring. All the complications were controlled by reasonable treatments and all the patients were transferred out from CCU with stable vital signs. The mean time of CCU stay was 29 hours ranging from 14 hours to 243 hours. ConclusionDue to special characteristics of patients after TAVI, we should observe carefully, follow the nursing operation rules strictly, discover complications timely, give treatment correctly, and finally ensure the safety of patients during the high risk period.
The main purpose of this study is to observe and analyze the characteristics and the clinical significance of long-term echocardiogram data in patients after mechanical aortic valve replacement operation. Fifty-five cases were recruited over 5 years after mechanical aortic valve replacement operation, with complete echocardiogram examination profiles. The 55 subjects were divided into predominate aortic stenosis group and predominate aortic regurgitation group, based on preoperative examinations. And another way of division was also carried out that according to the effective orifice area index (EOAI), the subjects were divided into three groups, i.e., severe prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM) group, moderate PPM group, and non PPM group. Characteristics of long-term echocardiogram data of the subjects were analyzed. Patients with aortic stenosis showed significantly decreased thickness of intraventricular septum and left ventricular posterior wall about half a year after operation (P<0.05). Half a year after operation, patients with aortic regurgitation showed decreased left ventricular internal dimension diastole and left ventricular internal dimension systole, and increased ejection fraction (P<0.05). Differences in mean aortic valve pressure gradient, forward blood flow across the aortic valves, and ejection fraction were not significant among those with severe PPM, moderate PPM, and non PPM groups (P>0.05). Number of cases of ascending aorta dimension increased as time goes on and pathogenesis of other valve diseases. A conclusion could be drawn that the heart function of patients with aortic valve disease could be improved after mechanical aortic valve replacement operation, but pathologies in other valves and ascending aorta might be increased, and therefore periodical postoperative echocardiogram evaluation with long tem pharmaceutical therapy could be necessary.
ObjectiveTo compare the recent and mid-term results of two different treatments in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients with dilated ascending aorta. MethodsFrom march 2007 to April 2014, there were totally 70 BAV patients received surgical treatment in Nanjing Cardiovascular Disease Hospital. According to the procedure of the ascending aorta, they were divided into two groups. As for group A which repaired the ascending aorta, there were 28 males and 9 females with an average age of 58.68±8.01 years. As for group B which replaced the ascending aorta, there were 25 males and 8 females with an average age of 54.18±11.97 years. And we compared perioperative clinical data and follow-up results of these two groups. ResultsThere were statistical differences between the two groups in cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross clamping time, and ICU stay time (105.19±11.17 min vs. 180.94±32.10 min, P=0.000; 78.65±13.18 min vs. 110.24±29.64 min, P=0.000; 1.62±1.09 d vs. 3.58±2.89 d, P=0.001). And the time of the group A is shorter than that in the group B. Two patients in the group B died postoperatively, and the other 68 patients discharged. There was no significant difference in cumulative survival rate between the two groups (P=0.582). Postoperative following-up results showed that the ascending aortic diameter of both groups was smaller than that during the preoperative period. And at the latest time of the following-up, ascending aortic diameter was increased compared with pre-discharge in the group A (38.50±1.77 mm vs. 34.85±1.53 mm, P=0.007). But there was no increase in the group B. ConclusionWe suggests simultaneous treatment to dilated ascending aorta for BAV patients. Both the repair and replacement procedure could achieve satisfactory recent and mid-term results.
ObjectiveTo analyze the clinical characteristics and surgical treatment of bicuspid aortic valve combined with thoracic aortic dilation. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 68 patients of bicuspid aortic valve combined with thoracic aortic dilation underwent surgical treatment in our hospital between January 2010 and June 2014. There were 47 males and 21 females at age of 26-77(44.5±16.3) years. Different surgical treatments including Wheat procedure(n=22), aortic valve replacement+ascending aortoplasty(n=10), Bentall procedure(n=13), aortic valve replacement+ascending aortic replacement+right hemi aortic arch replacement(n=13), Bentall procedure+ascending aortic replacement+right hemi aortic arch replacement(n=8), Bentall procedure+ascending aortic replacement+total arch replacement+stented elephant trunk(n=2) were carried out according to the type. ResultsAll 68 patients underwent surgical treatment. The mortality in hospital is at 4.4%(3/68). The postoperative complications were neurological and mental complications(n=3), pneumonia(n=2), and exploratory thoracotomy(n=2). We followed up 63 patients for 6 months to 4 years. A total of 62 patients were well without reoperation except one death at the end of following-up 2 years. ConclusionBicuspid aortic valve combined with thoracic aortic dilation has diversiform clinical characteristics. The surgical treatment should be chosen according to the aortic valve and thoracic aortic lesion characteristics.
ObjectiveTo explore the reoperation on aortic diseases in patients with previous aortic valve surgery due to rheumatic aortic valve disease, improve the understanding of aortic valve disease secondary to surgery of aortic valve. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the data of twenty-seven patients with previous aortic valve replacement due to rheumatic aortic valve disease underwent aortic root or other aortic operation in Fu Wai Cardiovascular Hospital because of new aortic root or aortic diseases between August 2003 and May 2012. All the patients with new aortic diseases were diagnosed by cardiac ultrasound and aortic computed tomography. The new diseases included type A aortic dissection in 13 patients, ascending aortic aneurysm in 6 patients, and aortic root aneurysm in 8 patients. There were 20 males and 7 females with mean age of 50±10 years (ranged 28-69 years). Seven patients underwent aortic root replacement, 6 patients received ascending aorta and total aortic arch replacement combined with stented graft implantation into the descending aorta, 6 patients received aortic root and total aortic arch replacement combined with stented graft, and 8 patients received the ascending aorta replacement. All patients were followed by clinic interview or telephone. ResultsThe interval time for reoperation was 6-110 (57±32) months. No patient died within 30 days after operation. Cardiopulmonary bypass time was 50-274 (143±65) minutes; hospital stay was 13-27 (19±11) days. Four patients had renal insufficiency after operation and all were cured by hemofiltration before departure. Three patients had neurological complications of transient brain dysfunction, and there was no postoperative spinal cord deficits occurred. Four patients had pulmonary complication. The mean follow up time were 4-118 (43.5±32.2) months. Five patients were missed and 4 cases died during the follow-up. The follow-up rate was 81.5%. Three-year survival rate was 85.1%. There was no case received third operation due to aortic disease during the follow-up. ConclusionWe should pay more attention to patients with previous surgery due to rheumatic aortic valve disease, especially to patients combined with enlarged ascending aorta, so that aortic adverse events following to aortic valve operation can be reduced or be avoided in long term.
ObjectiveTo assess clinical results of aortic cusps replacement with bovine pericardium for bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and severe aortic regurgitation (AR). MethodsClinical data of 79 patients with BAV and severe AR who underwent aortic cusps replacement with bovine pericardium in Wuhan Asia Heart Hospital from June 2008 to December 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 60 male and 19 female patients with their age of 38±14 years (ranged 12-78 years). All the patients were in NYHA class Ⅱ. There were 26 patients with ascending aorta and sinotubular expanding. ResultsNo early death or major complication was recorded. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography showed successful repair with normal coaptation of the aortic leaflets in all the patients. AR grade was less than mild in all the patients with peak aortic valve pressure gradients of 14.2±2.8 mm Hg. All the patients were discharged from the hospital within 15 postoperative days without any adverse symptom, and were followed up for 50±16 months (ranged 9-64 months). During follow-up, all the patients were in NYHA classⅠ. There were 57 patients without AR, 16 patients with mild AR, 5 patients with moderate AR and 1 patients with severe AR. The peak of aortic valve pressure gradient was 12.4±3.2 mm Hg. The average diameter of ascending aorta was 2.7 cm in the patients with ascending aorta and sinotubular expanding. The shape of sinotubular kept normal. The height of coaptation of aortic valve was 0.58 cm by echocadiography. None of the patients died or required reoperation. The structural valve degeneration was not observed during the follow-up. ConclusionThree aortic cusps replacement with bovine pericardium can produce good hemodynamics and midterm results for patients with BAV and severe AR. The ascending aorta and sinotubular should be reduced and fixed in the patients with ascending aorta and sinotubular expanding.
The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) high-pitch scan mode in the preoperative evaluation of severe aortic stenosis (AS) referred to transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Thirty patients with severe AS referred for TAVI underwent cervico-femoral artery joint DSCT angiography. Measurement and calculation of contrast, contrast noise ratio (CNR) and noise of aorta and access vessels were performed. The intra-and inter-observer reproducibilities for assessing aortic root and access vessels were evaluated. Evaluation of shape and plagues of aorta and access vessels was performed. The contrast, CNR and noise of aorta and access vessels were 348.2~457.9 HU, 12.2~30.3 HU and 19.1~48.1 HU, respectively. There were good intra-and inter-observer reproducibilities in assessing aortic root and access vessels by DSCT (mean difference:-0.73~0.79 mm, r=0.90~0.98, P < 0.001; mean difference:-0.70~0.73 mm, r=0.90~0.96, P < 0.001). In the 30 patients, the diameters of external iliac artery, femeral artery or subclavian artery were less than 7 mm in 5 cases (16.7%), marked calcification in bilateral common iliac arteries in 1 case (3.3%) and marked soft plaque in left common iliac artery in 1 case (3.3%). DSCT high-pitch scan mode was feasible in the preoperative evaluation of aorta and access vessels in patients with AS referred for TAVI.
ObjectiveTo find the relationship between bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and the dilatation or aneurysm of the aorta using electrocardiogram-gated computed tomography angiography (CTA). MethodsWe collected the clinical data of the BAV coexisting with suspected aortic dilatation or aneurysm from February 2012 through April 2015. A total of 124 patients were analyzed retrospectively. There were 97 males and 27 females at an anverage age of 50.35±16.26 years. According to the CTA, patients were classified into two groups: a pure BAV(without raphe) group and a BAV (with raphe) group. we recorded the aortic diameters, gender, age, and so on. ResultsOf the 124 patients, 91 (73.4%) had BAV with raphe, and 33 patients (26.6%) had pure BAV. The analysis revealed that the diameter of the annulus (23.90±3.34 mm vs. 21.74±3.46 mm, P=0.005), the sinuses of Valsalva (40.93±6.78 mm vs. 37.35±7.06 mm, P=0.022), the tubular portion of the ascending aorta (45.38±7.66 mm vs. 38.29±8.18 mm, P=0.0001), and the part of the aorta proximal to the innominate artery (34.19±4.98 mm vs. 30.23±6.62 mm, P=0.02) between patients with BAV with raphe and pure BAV had significant differences. And there was a significant difference in prevalence of dilatation of the aorta between patients with pure BAV and BAV with raphe [77/91 (84.6%) vs.18/31(58.1%), P=0.004]. Of the 91 BAV with raphe patients, we found 76 patients (83.5%) with right and left coronary cusps (R-L) fusion, 13 patients (14.3%) with right and non-coronary cusps (R-N) fusion, and 2 patients (1.2%) with left and non-coronary cusps (L-N) fusion. There was a statistical difference in the aortic root diameters between R-L fusion BAV and R-N fusion BAV. The diameter of the distal ascending aorta and proximal aortic arch between R-L and R-N fusion BAV had statistical differences. ConclusionsBAV with raphe is more common than pure BAV and is more often associated with dilatation and aneurysm of the ascending aorta. Otherwise R-L fusion BAV is associated with increased diameters of the aortic root, while R-N fusion BAV is associated with increased diameters of the distal ascending aorta and proximal arch.