All herein-described procedural steps were performed in accordance with the Institutional Review Board of the University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg guidelines and after written informed consent was obtained.
1. Fully endoscopic MIS MV repair
<ol>
	<li>Ensure the patient is under general anesthesia, in a supine position, scrubbed with iodine disinfectant, and draped with a sterile drape.</li>
	<li>Gain thoracic access along the peri-mammillary margin through the fourth intercostal space.</li>
	<li>Achieve distension of the intercostal space using a soft-tissue retractor.</li>
</ol>
2. Percutaneous cannulation of groin vessels
<ol>
	<li>Position two cannulas in the femoral artery and vein under transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) guidance to establish CPB for MIS.</li>
	<li>Perform puncture of the femoral artery using a standard puncture needle and insert a 0.035 mm guidewire under TEE guidance.</li>
	<li>Determine the depth of the initial puncture using a puncture-locating dilator, which is inserted over the wire. This detects puncture depth by outlet backflow/the stop of backflow.</li>
	<li>Define the depth at skin level, which is defined by the visible stop of backflow of the measuring tool. 
	NOTE: For the later release of the vessel closure device, deployment depth is defined as the puncture depth at skin level plus 1 cm.</li>
	<li>Place the arterial cannula (sizes vary according to body surface area) over the wire and connect it to CBP.</li>
	<li>Puncture the femoral vein medial to the artery in the same manner (step 2.2) and after insertion of the venous cannula connects to the CBP.</li>
</ol>
3. MV repair
<ol>
	<li>Insert the 3D-HD camera over the thoracic incision.</li>
	<li>Open the pericardium above the right site phrenic nerve using diathermy.</li>
	<li>Place a transthoracic Chitwood aortic clamp through a small incision for cross-clamping of the aorta under the induced ventricular fibrillation.</li>
	<li>Arrest the heart with antegrade Del-Nido cardioplegia and moderate hypothermia of 32 &#176;C, which is established and maintained by the heart and lung machine. The effectiveness of cardioplegia is documented by an electrocardiogram.</li>
	<li>Open the left atrium with scissors and lift the left atrial roof with a dynamic retractor.</li>
	<li>Expose the MV and inspect the pathology, by prolapse of the posterior mitral leaflet in this case.</li>
	<li>Determine the size for the correct annuloplasty ring and neochordae via an annuloplasty measuring tool and a caliper for the length of native chordae.</li>
	<li>Resuspend the posterior mitral leaflet (PML). Implant the annuloplasty ring by implanting the neochordae at the respective papillary muscle and placing circumferential annulus sutures.</li>
	<li>Secure the neochordae to the papillary muscle, pass twice through the free margin of the posterior leaflet, and knot down.</li>
	<li>Place circumferential sutures around the annulus and then put the sutures through the annuloplasty ring, which is taken down onto the annulus via the sutures.</li>
	<li>Close the left atrium with a polypropylene, non-absorbable 4-0 suture; remove the aortic cross-clamp.</li>
	<li>Close the thoracic access and perform CBP weaning.</li>
</ol>
4. Decannulation and vascular closure
<ol>
	<li>Remove the venous cannula using a Z-suture technique at the cannula entrance site and tie down the suture after pulling out of the cannula.</li>
	<li>For closure of the femoral artery, use the collagen plug-based closure device.</li>
	<li>Clamp the arterial cannula, puncture the cannula, and insert a wire under TEE guidance.</li>
	<li>Retract the cannula over the wire by holding the wire in place to ensure a safe wire position in the descending aorta.</li>
	<li>Insert the closure system sheath fully over the wire and remove the dilator.</li>
	<li>Insert the closure device over the integrated insertion tool and slowly remove the whole system at a steady 45&#176; angle under constant retraction force to the measured depth.</li>
	<li>Observe markings on the sheath, adjust the deployment depth, and rotate the lever for toggle release.</li>
	<li>Retract the system further from the femoral artery until tension appears and the indicator field appears yellow/green.</li>
	<li>Advance the lock advancement tool until a click is heard; the puncture is now sealed via an extravascular collagen plug.</li>
	<li>When hemostasis is obtained, remove the guide wire, cut the lead suture, and close the skin with a single suture.</li>
	<li>Apply a pressure bandage for 6 h. 
	NOTE: This is the end of the surgery.</li>
</ol>

<ol>
	<li>David, T. E., Ivanov, J., Armstrong, S., Rakowski, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Late+outcomes+of+mitral+valve+repair+for+floppy+valves:+Implications+for+asymptomatic+patients.">Late outcomes of mitral valve repair for floppy valves: Implications for asymptomatic patients.</a> The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. 125 (5), 1143-1152 (2003).</li><li>David, T. E., David, C. M., Lafreniere-Roula, M., Manlhiot, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Long-term+outcomes+of+chordal+replacement+with+expanded+polytetrafluoroethylene+sutures+to+repair+mitral+leaflet+prolapse.">Long-term outcomes of chordal replacement with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene sutures to repair mitral leaflet prolapse.</a> The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. 160 (2), 385-394 (2020).</li><li>Beckmann, A., Meyer, R., Lewandowski, J., Markewitz, A., Harringer, W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=German+heart+surgery+report+2018:+the+annual+updated+registry+of+the+German+Society+for+Thoracic+and+Cardiovascular+Surgery.">German heart surgery report 2018: the annual updated registry of the German Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.</a> The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon. 67 (5), 331-344 (2019).</li><li>Abdelbar, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Endoscopic+tricuspid+valve+surgery+is+a+safe+and+effective+option.">Endoscopic tricuspid valve surgery is a safe and effective option.</a> Innovations. 15 (1), 66-73 (2020).</li><li>Pfannmueller, B., Misfeld, M., Davierwala, P., Weiss, S., Borger, M. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Concomitant+tricuspid+valve+repair+during+minimally+invasive+mitral+valve+repair.">Concomitant tricuspid valve repair during minimally invasive mitral valve repair.</a> The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon. 68 (6), 486-491 (2020).</li><li>Ko, K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Minimally+invasive+mitral+valve+surgery:+a+systematic+safety+analysis.">Minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: a systematic safety analysis.</a> Open Heart. 7 (2), e001393 (2020).</li><li>Pozzi, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Total+percutaneous+femoral+vessels+cannulation+for+minimally+invasive+mitral+valve+surgery.">Total percutaneous femoral vessels cannulation for minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.</a> Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery. 2 (6), 739-743 (2013).</li><li>Kim, J., Yoo, J. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Totally+endoscopic+mitral+valve+repair+using+a+three-dimensional+endoscope+system:+initial+clinical+experience+in+Korea.">Totally endoscopic mitral valve repair using a three-dimensional endoscope system: initial clinical experience in Korea.</a> Journal of Thoracic Disease. 12 (3), 705-711 (2020).</li><li>Kroon, H. G., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Dedicated+plug+based+closure+for+large+bore+access-The+MARVEL+prospective+registry.">Dedicated plug based closure for large bore access-The MARVEL prospective registry.</a> Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions. 97 (6), 1270-1278 (2021).</li><li>Van Praet, K. M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+MANTA+vascular+closure+device+for+percutaneous+femoral+vessel+cannulation+in+minimally+invasive+surgical+mitral+valve+repair.">The MANTA vascular closure device for percutaneous femoral vessel cannulation in minimally invasive surgical mitral valve repair.</a> Innovations. 15 (6), 568-571 (2020).</li><li>Otto, C. M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=ACC/AHA+guideline+for+the+management+of+patients+with+valvular+heart+disease:+a+report+of+the+American+College+of+Cardiology/American+Heart+Association+Joint+Committee+on+Clinical+Practice+Guidelines.">ACC/AHA guideline for the management of patients with valvular heart disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines.</a> Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 77 (4), 450-500 (2020).</li><li>Vergnat, M., Finet, G., Rioufol, G., Obadia, J. F. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+femoral+artery+access+with+Prostar+device+for+innovative+mitral+and+aortic+interventions.">Percutaneous femoral artery access with Prostar device for innovative mitral and aortic interventions.</a> European Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery. 39 (4), 600-602 (2011).</li><li>Ramponi, F., Yan, T. D., Vallely, M. P., Wilson, M. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Total+percutaneous+cardiopulmonary+bypass+with+Perclose+ProGlide.">Total percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass with Perclose ProGlide.</a> Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (1), 86-88 (2011).</li><li>Sahin, A. A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Comparison+between+PeRcutanEous+and+surgical+femoral+aCcess+for+endovascuLar+aOrtic+repair+in+patientS+with+typE+III+aortic+Dissection+(PRECLOSE+Trial).">Comparison between PeRcutanEous and surgical femoral aCcess for endovascuLar aOrtic repair in patientS with typE III aortic Dissection (PRECLOSE Trial).</a> Vascular. 29 (4), 616-623 (2020).</li><li>Malkawi, A. H., Hinchliffe, R. J., Holt, P. J., Loftus, I. M., Thompson, M. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+access+for+endovascular+aneurysm+repair:+a+systematic+review.">Percutaneous access for endovascular aneurysm repair: a systematic review.</a> European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. 39 (6), 676-682 (2010).</li><li>Kastengren, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+vascular+closure+device+in+minimally+invasive+mitral+valve+surgery.">Percutaneous vascular closure device in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery.</a> The Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 110 (1), 85-91 (2020).</li><li>Ahmad, A. E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=First+experiences+with+MANTA+vascular+closure+device+in+minimally+invasive+valve+surgery.">First experiences with MANTA vascular closure device in minimally invasive valve surgery.</a> The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon. 69 (5), 455-460 (2021).</li><li>Wood, D. A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Pivotal+clinical+study+to+evaluate+the+safety+and+effectiveness+of+the+MANTA+percutaneous+vascular+closure+device.">Pivotal clinical study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the MANTA percutaneous vascular closure device.</a> Circulation. Cardiovascular Interventions. 12 (7), e007258 (2019).</li><li>De Palma, R., Settergren, M., R&#252;ck, A., Linder, R., Saleh, N. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Impact+of+percutaneous+femoral+arteriotomy+closure+using+the+MANTATM+device+on+vascular+and+bleeding+complications+after+transcatheter+aortic+valve+replacement.">Impact of percutaneous femoral arteriotomy closure using the MANTATM device on vascular and bleeding complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement.</a> Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions. 92 (5), 954-961 (2018).</li></ol>

The application of vascular closure devices for arterial CPB cannulation is a transcatheter technique that has the potential to improve outcomes in cardiac surgery is. Application of this technique in cardiac surgery procedures, and especially EMS valve surgery, has been adopted in specialized centers over recent years to avoid surgical cutdown and the exposure of groin vessels. ProStar and ProGlide systems are the most commonly used devices7,12. In a series of 3...

The gold standard for the treatment of primary, degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR) is surgical mitral valve (MV) repair. The efficacy of this approach has been proven in large clinical studies with conclusive long-term data1. Due to a large armamentarium of surgical techniques for MV repair, such as annuloplasty or the insertion of Gore-Tex neochordae, almost all pathologies of the MV are treatable. This includes complex circumstances like Morbus Barlow with prolapse of both MV leaflets, with proven safety and efficacy as well as excellent results up to 20 years2. Furthermore, the majority of isolated MV surgery in Germany is performed via minimally invasive approaches, like a right anterolateral minithoracotomy3. Also, concomitant tricuspid valve (TV) surgery is amenable by minimally invasive access, even in a beating heart fashion4,5.
Surgical cutdown to access groin vessels has traditionally been a routine procedure for the implementation of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, this approach inherits a certain risk of postoperative wound healing disorders or seroma formation6. The adaption of transcatheter techniques for fully percutaneous insertion of a cannula for the establishment of CPB has been described7,8, and this may reduce possible groin complications. Already used devices for percutaneous vessel closure in endoscopic mitral valve surgery (EMS) include suture-based systems7,8. Recently, a collagen plug-based vascular closure device was introduced for transcatheter heart valve procedures. This large bore closure device can be used for the closure of arterial access sites of up to 25 French (Fr.). Safety and efficacy of the system have previously been demonstrated in a real-world transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) patient cohort9. The first data of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) of the MV or TV utilizing this system for the closure of the femoral artery showed promising results regarding postoperative groin complications10.
We herein describe the fundamental steps of fully endoscopic mitral valve surgery, including percutaneous groin cannulation and decannulation using a novel vascular closure device. The fully endoscopic approach differs from the MIS non-endoscopic technique in terms of a very small thoracic incision (3-5 cm), avoidance of rib-spreading, and visualization of cardiac structures with an endoscope with no direct view of the heart.
This surgery can be performed on patients with significant heart valve regurgitation or stenosis of atrioventricular heart valves, who are suitable for cardiac surgery. Preoperative diagnostics include transthoracic/transesophageal echocardiography and computed tomography of the chest and iliac vessels in elderly patients or patients with a history of peripheral artery disease.

<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>30&#176; camera head</td>
			<td>Aesculap Einstein Vision</td>
			<td>PV 632</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3D-HD camera&#160;</td>
			<td>Aesculap Einstein Vision</td>
			<td>PV 630</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Annuloplasty ring&#160;</td>
			<td>Edwards</td>
			<td>93381</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Aortic clamp</td>
			<td>Cardio Vision</td>
			<td>CV 195.10</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Aterial Cannula</td>
			<td>Medtronic</td>
			<td>96570-121</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Femoral Cannula</td>
			<td>Metronic</td>
			<td>96670-125</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Full HD 3D Monitor</td>
			<td>Aesculap Einstein Vision</td>
			<td>PV 646</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Giude wire</td>
			<td>Merit Medica</td>
			<td>6678-71</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Heart valve retractor set</td>
			<td>Cardio Vision</td>
			<td>CV 100.00</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LED light source</td>
			<td>Aesculap Einstein Vision</td>
			<td>OP 950</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Manta</td>
			<td>Teleflex Medical Inc.</td>
			<td>2115</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Neo chordae</td>
			<td>Serag Wiesner</td>
			<td>MCL14A</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Soft Tissue Retractor</td>
			<td>Cardio Vision</td>
			<td>Cv100/80</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Stative table arm for endoscopes</td>
			<td>Cardio Vision</td>
			<td>CV 281.73</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Stative table arm for instruments</td>
			<td>Cardio Vision</td>
			<td>CV 281.72</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Suture for fixing Loops</td>
			<td>Gore-Tex Suture</td>
			<td>4N02</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

fully endoscopic mitral valve repair with percutaneous cannulation of groin vessels

Endoscopic mitral valve surgery (EMS) has become a standard of care at specialized heart centers, further reducing surgical trauma compared to a traditional minimally invasive, thoracotomy-based approach. Exposure of the groin vessels for the establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) via surgical cutdown in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) may result in wound healing disorders or seroma formation. The avoidance of surgical exposure of the groin vessels by using fully percutaneous techniques for the insertion of a CPB cannula with the implementation of vascular pre-closure devices has the potential to reduce these complications and improve clinical results. Herein, we present the utilization of a novel plug based vacsular closure device with a resobable collagen plug and the absence of suture material for closure of the arterial access for CPB in MIS. While this device was initially predominantly used in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures, with its safety and feasibility shown, we herein show that it can be used in CPB cannulation, since it is capable of closing arterial access sites up to 25 French (Fr.) in size. This device may be suitable to significantly reduce groin complications in MIS and simplify the establishment of CPB. Here, we describe the fundamental steps of EMS, including percutaneous groin cannulation and decannulation using a vascular closure device.

In a preliminary patient cohort undergoing EMS and using this novel vascular closure device at our center, promising results were documented11. This cohort included 35 patients, with the most common accompanying diseases being arterial hypertension (10/35, 28.6%) and atrial fibrillation (9/35, 25.7%). Valve failure mechanisms included primary, degenerative MR (30/35, 85.7%), secondary, functional MR (3/35, 8.6%), and endocarditis (2/35, 5.7%). Concomitant procedures in MV MIS MV were tricuspid val...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Fully Endoscopic Mitral Valve Repair with Percutaneous Cannulation of Groin Vessels at JoVE.com

Fully Endoscopic Mitral Valve Repair with Percutaneous Cannulation of Groin Vessels

This protocol demonstrates in detail how to perform fully endoscopic mitral valve surgery (EMS) with percutaneous cannulation of the groin vessels, using a percutaneous plug-based vascular closure device. Fundamental steps and useful instructions are described in detail for each step.

Endoscopic mitral valve surgery (EMS) has become a standard of care at specialized heart centers, further reducing surgical trauma compared to a ...

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1.4K Views.  University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg. This protocol demonstrates in detail how to perform fully endoscopic mitral valve surgery (EMS) with percutaneous cannulation of the groin vessels, using a percutaneous plug-based vascular closure device. Fundamental steps and useful instructions are described in detail for each step. 

Video: Fully Endoscopic Mitral Valve Repair with Percutaneous Cannulation of Groin Vessels

Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion (PHP) with Melphalan as a Treatment for Unresectable Metastases Confined to the Liver

Unresectable liver metastases of colorectal cancer can be treated with systemic chemotherapy, aiming to limit the disease, extend survival or turn unresectable metastases into resectable ones. Some patients however, suffer from side effects or progression under systemic treatment. For patients with metastasized uveal melanoma there are no standard systemic therapy options. For patients without extrahepatic disease, isolated liver perfusion (IHP) may enable local disease control with limited systemic side effects. Previously, this was performed during open surgery with satisfying results, but morbidity and mortality related to the open procedure, prohibited a widespread application. Therefore, percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) with simultaneous chemofiltration was developed. Besides decreasing morbidity and mortality, this procedure can be repeated, hopefully leading to a higher response rate and improved survival (by local control of disease). During PHP, catheters are placed in the proper hepatic artery, to infuse the chemotherapeutic agent, and in the inferior caval vein to aspirate the chemosaturated blood returning through the hepatic veins. The caval vein catheter is a double balloon catheter that prohibits leakage into the systemic circulation. The blood returning from the hepatic veins is aspirated through the catheter fenestrations and then perfused through an extra-corporeal filtration system. After filtration, the blood is returned to the patient by a third catheter in the right internal jugular vein. During PHP a high dose of melphalan is infused into the liver, which is toxic and would lead to life threatening complications when administered systemically. Because of the significant hemodynamic instability resulting from the combination of caval vein occlusion and chemofiltration, hemodynamic monitoring and hemodynamic support is of paramount importance during this complex procedure.

Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion PHP with Melphalan as a Treatment for Unresectable Metastases Confined to the Liver

In this manuscript, we describe percutaneous isolated hepatic perfusion with simultaneous chemofiltration as treatment for unresectable liver metastases. This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia in the angiosuite by an experienced team, consisting of an interventional radiologist, a clinical perfusionist and anaesthesiologist.

Unresectable liver metastases of colorectal cancer can be treated with systemic chemotherapy, aiming to limit the disease, extend survival or turn ...

Full-root Aortic Valve Replacement by Stentless Aortic Xenografts in Patients with Small Aortic Roots

In patients with small aortic roots who need an aortic valve replacement with biological valve substitutes, the implantation of the stented pericardial valve might not meet the functional needs. The implantation of a too-small stented pericardial valve, leading to an effective orifice area indexed to a body surface area less than 0.85 cm2/m2, is regarded as prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM). A PPM negatively affects the regression of left ventricular hypertrophy and thus the normalization of left ventricular function and the alleviation of symptoms. Persistent left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with an increased risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. In the case of predictable PPM, there are three options: 1) accept the PPM resulting from the implantation of a stented pericardial valve when comorbidities of the patient forbid the more technically demanding operative technique of implanting a larger prosthesis, 2) enlarge the aortic root to accommodate a larger stented valve substitute, or 3) implant a stentless biological valve or a homograft. Compared to classical aortic valve replacement with stented pericardial valves, the full-root implantation of stentless aortic xenografts offers the possibility of implanting a 3-4 mm larger valve in a given patient, thus allowing significant reduction in transvalvular gradients. However, a number of cardiac surgeons are reluctant to transform a classical aortic valve replacement with stented pericardial valves into the more technically challenging full-root implantation of stentless aortic xenografts. Given the potential hemodynamic advantages of stentless aortic xenografts, we have adopted full-root implantation to avoid PPM in patients with small aortic roots necessitating an aortic valve replacement. Here, we describe in detail a technique for the full-root implantation of stentless aortic xenografts, with emphasis on the management of the proximal suture line and coronary anastomoses. Limitations of this technique and alternative options are discussed.

Full-root aortic valve replacement by stentless aortic xenograft is a viable option in patients with small aortic roots. We describe, a technique for the full-root implantation of stentless aortic xenografts, with emphasis on the management of the proximal suture line and coronary anastomoses, and discuss its limitations and alternative options.

In patients with small aortic roots who need an aortic valve replacement with biological valve substitutes, the implantation of the stented pericardial ...

Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement

Despite the obvious advantages of the preservation of a normal aortic valve during aortic root replacement, the complexity of valve sparing procedures prevents a number of cardiac surgeons from incorporating them into their practice. The aim of this protocol is to describe a simplified and user-friendly technique of an aortic valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) procedure by re-implantation of the aortic valve. Proper selection of patients and limitations of the technique are discussed.
In 54 consecutive patients, normal appearing aortic valves were re-implanted in a commercially available polyester prosthesis with pre-shaped sinuses by a simplified and standardized technique. Placement of the first row of the proximal suture line, choice of the prosthesis size, and adjustment of the height of the commissures of the patient to the fixed height of the sinus portion of the prosthesis were slightly modified from the reference techniques with the aim of increasing its feasibility for use by other cardiac surgeons. Early mortality and morbidity as well as 5-year survival, freedom from aortic valve reoperation, and freedom from recurrent moderate regurgitation were collected in all patients.
Thirty-day mortality, re-sternotomy for bleeding, re-sternotomy for mediastinitis, and the incidence of stroke were very low, 1.8% for each (1 of 54). No patient required permanent pace-maker implantation. At 5 years, survival, freedom from aortic valve reoperation, and freedom from recurrent moderate regurgitation were 97.5%, 95.2%, and 91.6%, respectively.
Mid-term results of our standardized technique of re-implantation of the aortic valve for valve-sparing aortic root replacement are very good and compare with more complex techniques reported by experienced surgeons. By following the present protocol of the standardized re-implantation technique, a greater number of cardiac surgeons can perform this procedure with comparable good results.

Valve-sparing aortic root replacement has the advantage of preserving the patient&#39;s own aortic valve. The complexity of the reported techniques to date restricts their use to a limited number of cardiac surgeons. This protocol describes step-by-step a standardized technique reproducible by a greater number of cardiac surgeons.

Despite the obvious advantages of the preservation of a normal aortic valve during aortic root replacement, the complexity of valve sparing procedures ...

An Image Guided Transapical Mitral Valve Leaflet Puncture Model of Controlled Volume Overload from Mitral Regurgitation in the Rat

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a widely prevalent heart valve lesion, which causes cardiac remodeling and leads to congestive heart failure. Though the risks of uncorrected MR and its poor prognosis are known, the longitudinal changes in cardiac function, structure and remodeling are incompletely understood. This knowledge gap has limited our understanding of the optimal timing for MR correction, and the benefit that early versus late MR correction may have on the left ventricle. To investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie left ventricular remodeling in the setting of MR, animal models are necessary. Traditionally, the aorto-caval fistula model has been used to induce volume overload, which differs from clinically relevant lesions such as MR. MR represents a low-pressure volume overload hemodynamic stressor, which requires animal models that mimic this condition. Herein, we describe a rodent model of severe MR in which the anterior leaflet of the rat mitral valve is perforated with a 23G needle, in a beating heart, with echocardiographic image guidance. The severity of MR is assessed and confirmed with echocardiography, and the reproducibility of the model is reported.&#160;&#160;

A rodent model of left heart volume overload from mitral regurgitation is reported. Mitral regurgitation of controlled severity is induced by advancing a needle of defined dimensions into the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve, in a beating heart, with ultrasound guidance.&#160;

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a widely prevalent heart valve lesion, which causes cardiac remodeling and leads to congestive heart failure. Though the ...

A Simplified Stepwise Approach to Echo Guidance during Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair

Percutaneous transcatheter edge-to-edge reconstruction of the mitral valve is a safe and well-established therapy for severe symptomatic mitral regurgitation in patients with high surgical risk. Echocardiographic guidance in addition to fluoroscopy is the gold standard and should be performed using a standardized technique.
This article lays out our reproducible step by step echocardiographic guide including views, measurements as well as highlighting possible difficulties that may arise during the procedure.
This article provides detailed and chronological echocardiographic views for each step of the procedure, especially preferences between 2D and 3D imaging. If needed, pulse wave, continuous wave and color doppler measurements are described. Furthermore, as there are no official recommendations for the quantification of mitral regurgitation during the percutaneous edge-to-edge-repair procedure, advice is also included for echocardiographic quantification after grasping the mitral leaflets and after device deployment. In addition, the article deals with important echocardiographic views to prevent and deal with possible complications during the procedure.
Echocardiographic guidance during transcatheter mitral valve repair is mandatory. A structured approach improves the collaboration between interventionist and imager and is indispensable for a safe and effective procedure.

This protocol presents in detail how to perform real-time echocardiographic guidance during transcatheter mitral valve repair. The fundamental views and the necessary measurements are described for each stage of the procedure.

Percutaneous transcatheter edge-to-edge reconstruction of the mitral valve is a safe and well-established therapy for severe symptomatic mitral ...

Endoscopic Cholesteatoma Surgery

Implementation of endoscopes in cholesteatoma surgery resulted in considerable changes in the management of cholesteatoma in the last two decades. Compared to the microscopic approach with an excellent but straight-line view and limited illumination, the introduction of endoscopes provides a wide-angled panoramic view. Moreover, angled lenses allow the surgeon to visualize the middle ear and its hidden recesses through a transcanal, minimally-invasive approach. The endoscope enables the surgeon to remove limited cholesteatoma of the middle ear and its recesses using an exclusive endoscopic technique by taking advantage of these benefits. This reduces the rate of residual disease and sparing external incisions and excessive temporal bone drilling as in a transmastoid approach. Since transcanal endoscopic access is mainly a one-handed technique, it implies the need for specific procedures and technical refinements. This article describes a step-by-step guide as a surgical manual for endoscopic removal of epitympanic cholesteatoma. Different techniques for cholesteatoma dissection and bone removal for epitympanectomy, including curettage and powered instruments such as drills and ultrasonic devices with their outcomes, are discussed. This may offer ear surgeons insight into technical refinements and the latest technological developments and open the horizon for different techniques.

The present protocol describes a step-by-step guide for the complete endoscopic removal of epitympanic cholesteatoma with different techniques for cholesteatoma dissection and bone removal for epitympanectomy.

Implementation of endoscopes in cholesteatoma surgery resulted in considerable changes in the management of cholesteatoma in the last two decades. ...

Four-Dimensional Computed Tomography-Guided Valve Sizing for Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement

The measurements of the right ventricle (RV) and pulmonary artery (PA), for selecting the optimal prosthesis size for transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR), vary considerably. Three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) imaging for device size prediction is insufficient to assess the displacement of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) and PA, which could increase the risk of stent misplacement and paravalvular leak. The aim of this study is to provide a dynamic model to visualize and quantify the anatomy of the RVOT to PA over the entire cardiac cycle by four-dimensional (4D) cardiac CT reconstruction to obtain an accurate quantitative evaluation of the required valve size. In this pilot study, cardiac CT from sheep J was chosen to illustrate the procedures. 3D cardiac CT was imported into 3D reconstruction software to build a 4D sequence which was divided into eleven frames over the cardiac cycle to visualize the deformation of the heart. Diameter, cross-sectional area, and circumference of five imaging planes at the main PA, sinotubular junction, sinus, basal plane of the pulmonary valve (BPV), and RVOT were measured at each frame in 4D straightened models prior to valve implantation to predict the valve size. Meanwhile, dynamic changes in the RV volume were also measured to evaluate right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF). 3D measurements at the end of the diastole were obtained for comparison with the 4D measurements. In sheep J, 4D CT measurements from the straightened model resulted in the same choice of valve size for TPVR (30 mm) as 3D measurements. The RVEF of sheep J from pre-CT was 62.1 %. In contrast with 3D CT, the straightened 4D reconstruction model not only enabled accurate prediction for valve size selection for TPVR but also provided an ideal virtual reality, thus presenting a promising method for TPVR and the innovation of TPVR devices.

This study assessed a new methodology with a straightened model generated from the four-dimensional cardiac computed tomography sequence to obtain the desired measurements for valve sizing in the application of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement.

The measurements of the right ventricle (RV) and pulmonary artery (PA), for selecting the optimal prosthesis size for transcatheter pulmonary valve ...

A Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guide for Exclusive Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty

Techniques of Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty

The utilization of endoscopes in modern otology has evolved from diagnostic purposes to the development of exclusive endoscopic ear surgery. This technique offers a panoramic view of the middle ear and provides an optimal magnification of the oval window region, the stapes' suprastructure, and the footplate, allowing great precision in prosthesis positioning during ossiculoplasty (OPL). Various techniques for ossicular chain reconstruction have been described in the literature. Either autologous or synthetic materials can be used for reconstruction. The use of a patient's own tissue minimizes the risk of implant rejection or extrusion of the prosthesis through the tympanic membrane. On the other hand, synthetic materials like titanium are light and rigid and do not require time-consuming prosthesis remodeling. The main objective of this article is to present a comprehensive step-by-step guide that serves as a surgical manual for exclusive endoscopic OPL. This guide will explain various forms of OPL using synthetic and autologous materials. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various surgical techniques and support the integration into clinical practice.

Author Spotlight: Advancing Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty &#8211; Techniques, Innovations, and Practical Guidance for Clinical Integration

Exclusive Endoscopic ossiculoplasty (EEO) is a promising and minimally invasive approach for the treatment of conductive hearing loss due to ossicular chain disruptions and associated middle ear pathologies. Herein, step-by-step instructions and a discussion of various endoscopic ossiculoplasty techniques are presented.

The utilization of endoscopes in modern otology has evolved from diagnostic purposes to the development of exclusive endoscopic ear surgery. This ...

Novel PLL-AF Suture Technique for Annulus Fibrosus Repair in Lumbar Endoscopy

A Suture Technique for Ruptured Annulus Fibrosus Following Decompression Under Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full decompression has been shown to decrease the recurrence rate of lumbar disc herniation during endoscopic surgery. Traditional suture operations under endoscopy involve only simple suturing of the ruptured AF. Due to the weak and poor quality of the AF tissue around the tear portal, using this area as needle insertion points during suturing may lead to insufficient tension and a low success rate of AF closure. Currently, there is no detailed technical illustration based on video for AF tear suturing under lumbar full-endoscopy. We innovatively propose a method of covering and suturing the AF tear by pulling up the posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) under lumbar endoscopy and using three stitches (PLL-AF suture technique). The patient who received the novel suture technique achieved satisfactory results. Six months after the operation, lumbar MRI showed no evidence of recurrence in the outpatient clinic.

Author Spotlight: Development and Application of a Novel Suture Technique for Annular Fibrosus Repair in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

This protocol describes an innovative suture technique for ruptured annular fibrosus during percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy.

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full ...

Treating Lumbar Spinal Stenosis with a Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Percutaneous Endoscopic Unilateral-Approach Bilateral Decompression for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) involves the narrowing of the spinal canal due to degenerative changes in the vertebral joints, intervertebral discs, and ligaments. LSS encompasses central canal stenosis (CCS), lateral recess stenosis (LRS), and intervertebral foramen stenosis (IFS). The utilization of lumbar endoscopic unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (LE-ULBD) has gained popularity in the treatment of CCS and LRS. This popularity is attributed to the rapid development of endoscopic instruments and the progress of endoscopic philosophy.
In this technical report, a detailed introduction to the steps and key points of LE-ULBD is provided. Simultaneously, a retrospective review of 132 consecutive patients who underwent LE-ULBD for central canal and/or lateral recess stenosis was conducted. The outcomes after more than two years of follow-up were assessed using the visual analogue score (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, and the modified MacNab criteria to evaluate surgical efficacy. All 132 patients underwent LE-ULBD successfully. Among them, 119 patients were rated as "excellent," while 13 patients were rated as "good" based on the modified MacNab criteria during the last follow-up. Incidental dural tears occurred in four cases, but there were no post-operative epidural hematomas or infections. The experience demonstrates that LE-ULBD is a less invasive, effective, and safe approach. It can be considered as an alternative option for treating patients with lumbar central canal stenosis and/or lateral recess stenosis.

Author Spotlight: Scope of LE-ULBD as a Safe, Effective, and Minimally Invasive Approach to Treat Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

The present protocol describes the steps and key points of lumbar endoscopic unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression for the treatment of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis.

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) involves the narrowing of the spinal canal due to degenerative changes in the vertebral joints, intervertebral discs, and ...