Abstract 1122‐000229: Simultaneous Transarterial‐Transvenous Contrast Injection to Reveal Connection Point for Treatment of Carotid Cavernous Fistula

Introduction : Cavernous sinus (CS) via inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) access can present a challenge in the treatment of carotid‐cavernous fistulas (CCF) due to anatomical variations, tortuosity, and/or difficult visualization of IPS given high retrograde flow through the fistulous connection. Methods : A 58‐year‐old male was referred to our academic medical center for three weeks of right eye pain, now complicated by redness, diplopia and blurry vision. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain at the outside hospital revealed hemorrhagic lesion in right parietotemporal region. Computerized tomography‐angiogram (CTA) of the head revealed filling of cavernous sinus during an arterial phase suspicious for CCF. Under general anesthesia, after accessing right common femoral artery, 4 French (F) cook catheter (Cook Medical LLC, Bloomington, IN) was advanced over 0.035 angled glide wire to the proximal right internal carotid artery. Contrast injected through the ICA showed the CS but not the IPS (Fig. 1A). Through the left common femoral vein, access was obtained using an Infinity guide catheter (Stryker Neurovascular, Fremont, CA) and Catalyst 5 (Stryker Neurovascular, Fremont, CA) distal access catheter. A Synchro 2 soft microwire (Stryker Neurovascular, Fremont, CA) was advanced through Echelon 10 (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) microcatheter. The venous guide catheter was advanced into right internal jugular vein (IJV) and the distal access catheter was placed into sigmoid jugular junction. Injection of contrast revealed the IPS, but not the CS (Fig. 1B). A subsequent simultaneous hand injection with the microcatheter within the IPS and the diagnostic catheter in the left ICA elucidated the venous‐venous connection (Fig. 1C,) allowing for subsequent navigation and complete treatment of the fistula through IPS using target coils (Fig. 1D). Results : Given the arterial system is a high‐pressure system and the usual direction of flow of contrast would be from the high‐pressure ICA to the low‐pressure CS, injecting a simultaneous contrast bolus from the venous end would oppose the arterial contrast flow. As a result, the fistulous connection that was previously obscured became visible allowing roadmap imaging guiding navigation into the CS. Conclusions : Use of simultaneous trans‐arterial/trans‐venous contrast injection is relatively simple compared to other reported techniques to reveal an obscure connection point. It also shortens the duration of endovascular tools in the bloodstream and thus, reduces the potential complication rate. Further use of this technique on larger study samples is important to validate its general use.

Abstract 1122‐000193: Intracranial Bleeding in a Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma Stage IVb

Introduction : The trigeminocardiac reflex has been reported in craniofacial, neurosurgery, ophthalmological surgeries, and recently at endovascular procedures. Therefore, it has been called by other names also as trigeminal depressor reflex, reflex vagal trigeminal, or oculocardiac reflex. It is provoked by the stimulation of branches of the trigeminal nerve and presents cardiovascular alterations such as hypotension, bradycardia, cardiac arrhythmias, which can lead to asystole. This reflex originates at the brainstem and occurs as a rare autonomic dysfunction triggered by the stimulation of baroreceptors. Some factors predispose the appearance of this type of reflex, such as hypercapnia, hypoxemia, superficial anesthetic depth, and acidosis, among others. During these procedures is recommended continuous monitoring of the ECG and PAM. It is always essential to know the patient and modify the risk factors, or even stop the stimulus notifying the surgeon, if there is no adequate response, anticholinergic therapy, such as atropine, and the use of vasopressors should be applied. Methods : We report a clinical case of an 18‐year‐old male with a history of 3 years of recurrent epistaxis diagnosed with a Juvenilenasopharyngeal angiofibroma stage IVB, who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography for surgical planning. Results : Angiography was performed under conscious sedation. When we placed the JB2 diagnostic catheter in the external carotid artery, the patient presented bradycardia of 40bpm. The catheter was removed, and the heart rate improved; we made a second attempt again with bradycardia, for which atropine was administered, and continued with the procedure without incident. We evaluated the vascular supply to the tumor and ruled out the involvement of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. An occlusion test was also performed, which was positive. No aneurysms were found during angiography. At the end of the angiography, the patient presented anisocoria and left hemiparesis, so due to the suspicion of a thromboembolic event, a new femoral approach was performed to assess the intracranial circulation we found adequate patency. A non‐contrast head CT was performed, a subarachnoid hemorrhage in the prepontine and the interpeduncular cistern was observed. Medications used for sedation were discontinued to assess his neurological status at that time with GCS of 12. 48 hrs later, the patient was neurologically intact and without sequelae. In the literature review, we did not find reports of intracranial hemorrhage as complications in nasopharyngeal angiofibroma with intracranial extension or secondary to the presentation of the trigeminocardiac reflex. However, we suspected that it could result from a transient elevation of arterial hypertension due to the administration of anticholinergic therapy. Conclusions : Neuroanesthesiologists and endovascular surgeons must be aware of its manifestations and management to avoid complications due to the presentation of this reflex.

Safety and Efficacy of Four Different Diagnostic Catheter Curves Dedicated to One-Catheter Technique of Transradial Coronaro-Angiography—Prospective, Randomized Pilot Study. TRACT 1: Trans RAdial CoronaryAngiography Trial 1

Transradial coronaro-angiography (TRA) can be performed with one catheter. We investigate the efficacy of four different DxTerity catheter curves dedicated to the single-catheter technique and compare this method to the standard two-catheter approach. For this prospective, single-blinded, randomized pilot study, we enrolled 100 patients. In groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, the DxTerity catheters Trapease, Ultra, Transformer and Tracker Curve, respectively, were used. In group 5 (control), standard Judkins catheters were used. The study endpoints were the percentage of optimal stability, proper ostial artery engagement and a good quality angiogram, the duration of each procedure stage, the amount of contrast, and the radiation dose. The highest rate of optimal stability was observed in groups 2 (90%) and 5 (95%). Suboptimal results with at least one episode of catheter fallout from the ostium were most frequent in group 1 (45%). The necessity of using another catheter was observed most frequently in group 4. The analysis of time frames directly depending on the catheter type revealed that the shortest time for catheter introduction and for searching coronary ostia was achieved in group 2 (Ultra). There were no differences in contrast volume and radiation dose between groups. DxTerity catheters are suitable tools to perform TRA coronary angiography. The Ultra Curve catheter demonstrated an advantage over other catheters in terms of its ostial stability rate and procedural time.

Electrograms from the coronary sinus as a predictor for the outcome of a re-do pulmonary vein isolation

Background Voltage signals in the coronary sinus (CS) have been associated with the presence of left atrial fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the value of CS voltage signals as a predictor for atrial fibrillation (AF)-recurrence-free outcome of pulmonary vein isolationprocedures (PVI) in patients after a first unsuccessful cryo-balloon PVI. Method We collected recordings from a diagnostic catheter positioned in the CS from 282 consecutive atrial fibrillation patients undergoing a re-dopulmonary vein isolation using a 3D mapping system. The patients were followed-up (Holter ECG and telephone calls) for at least one year (median of 14 months). Results Of the 282 patients (male 72%, mean age 63±10.8 years, 61% persistent AF) AF recurrences were documented in 152 pts (54%)with a signal amplitude in the proximal CS position of 2.4 mV ± 1.5 mV. Patients free of AF-recurrence showed significantly higher signal amplitude of 2.9 mV ± 2.1 mV (P<0,05). A CS voltage <0.53mV could predict recurrences of AF with a sensitivity of 94.7% (95% CI 89.3% – 97.8%) and specificity of 8.6% (95% CI 4.6% – 14.8%; PLR 1.04; AUC 0.55). Conclusion Voltage signals in the CS, as a marker for left atrial fibrosis, are associated with the outcome of PVI. A voltage threshold of <0.53mV can predict AF recurrences with a high sensitivity. However, the predictive value for AF recurrences is not high due to the low specificity of this test. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Pulsation of catheter during coronary angiography: Is it a sign of severe aortic regurgitation?

A 48-year-old male patient was admitted to our outpatient clinic with complaints of shortness of breath. He also had a holo-diastolic murmur at the right sternal border and an apical impulse being displaced laterally and inferiorly. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a severe aortic regurgitation without aortic valve stenosis and a mildly dilated left ventricle accompanied by an ejection fraction of 55%. The aortic regurgitation jet was eccentric and there were significant holodiastolic flow reversals in the descending thoracic aorta. Surgical management was advised for this patient because of symptomatic severe aortic regurgitation. Then, the patient underwent preoperative coronary angiography through the right femoral artery route. The left coronary ostium could be engaged with a 6 Fr Judkins left diagnostic catheter; however, the catheter jumped through the ascending aorta. Afterwards, the catheter was engaged and again jumped through the ascending aorta. Engagement and jumping cycles observed between successive systole to diastole. In our opinion, this catheter movement is explained by wide pulse pressure, like the severe characteristic physical findings of severe aortic regurgitation. Further studies are needed to understand whether this catheter movement is angiographically evidence of severe aortic regurgitation.

Single sweep pulmonary vein isolation using the endoscopic ablation system. Dream or reality?

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): CardioFocus Background The endoscopic ablation system (EAS) is an established ablation device for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). In randomized studies, however, point-by-point laser ablation resulted in longer procedure times. The novel X3 EAS is now equipped with a motor driven laser generator that sweeps the diode laser beam around the individual PV ostium at a pre-defined speed (2.25°/sec) thus allowing for contiguous circumferential ablation (RAPID mode). Purpose To determine the feasibility of single sweep ablation using the new X3 EAS. Methods Consecutive AF patients were enrolled. After single transseptal puncture selective PV angiographies were performed. A 3D enabled circular mapping catheter was used to record PV potentials and to create a 3D map of the left atrium. Then, the transseptal sheath was exchanged for the 12F EAS delivery sheath. The EAS was inflated to obtain optimal circumferential contact to the PV ostium. Before ablation, the laser generator was retracted to ensure optimal contact behind the catheter shaft (blind spot). Ideally, RAPID mode ablation was employed at 13-15W. In case of esophageal heating >39°C or suboptimal tissue exposure point-by-point ablation (5.5-12W for 20-30 secs) was used instead. During ablation at the septal PVs phrenic nerve pacing was performed via a diagnostic catheter in the superior vena cava. Single sweep ablation was defined as one single RAPID energy application per PV to complete the singular, circular lesion set. PV conduction was re-assessed after all PVs had been treated. In case of residual PV conduction, gap mapping followed by EAS guided ablation was performed. If EAS failed to achieve complete PVI, touch up ablation was allowed at the discretion of the operator. Hemostasis was achieved by means of a figure of 8 suture. Procedure time was defined as initial groin puncture to groin closure. Follow-up included office visits at 3, 6 and 12 months including 72 h Holter monitoring. Results One-hundred AF patients (56% male, mean age 6810 years, 66% PAF) with normal LV ejection fraction (mean 60 ± 10%) and normal LA size (41 ± 6mm) underwent X3 EAS ablation. Of 382 PVs 378 (99%) were isolated with the X3 EAS. In 214 PVs (56%) single sweep isolation was achieved. First pass isolation and RAPID mode only PVI was achieved in 362 (95%) and 357 (94%), respectively. Single sweep isolation rates varied across PVs from 46% at LIPV to 64% at RSPV. The mean total procedure and fluoroscopy times were 43 ± 10 and 4 ± 2 mins, respectively. Safety data and the complete follow-up will be reported. Conclusion The new X3 EAS equipped with a motor driven laser generator allows for single sweep PVI in 56% of PVs. Almost all PVs (94%) may be isolated with RAPID mode only leading to a very high first pass isolation rate. Altogether, this leads to substantially faster procedure times compared to the predecessor EAS.

Incidence of residual gaps identified by a high-density grid-style catheter post-cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Despite advances in cardiac ablation technologies and the introduction of single-shot ablation devices such as the cryoballoon, the ability to consistently achieve complete and durable PVI remains elusive. While this is often attributed to PV reconnections that develop after the index procedure, recent data has suggested that traditional diagnostic techniques and technologies may in fact fail to identify gaps that remain upon completion of the index ablation. Initial observations in a small cohort of patients suggested that these residual gaps could be detected by a high-density, grid-style mapping catheter (HD Grid) post-cryoballoon ablation (CBA). The true incidence of these residual gaps as identified in a large patient population has not been previously reported. Purpose To quantify in a large cohort of CBA procedures, the presence of residual gaps identified by HD Grid which are missed by standard techniques of PVI confirmation using a 3.3F circular mapping catheter (CMC). Methods Self-reported data was prospectively collected in CBA procedures in which PVI was first confirmed using CMC followed by assessment using the HD Grid. Procedural characteristics and acute outcomes, including the incidence and location of residual gaps were analyzed. Results Data was collected in 150 CBA procedures performed in 24 centers across the US, Europe and Japan. De novo and repeat ablations represented 78.7% and 12.0% of cases, respectively (9.3% NR). A left common PV was present and ablated in 5.3%; right common in 0.7%. The CMC was used to confirm isolation in all cases using a variety of techniques including voltage mapping (73.3%), exit block (54.7%), and entrance block (29.3%); note: total exceeds 100% as >1 technique may be used in a single case. PVI was then reassessed with HD Grid, enabling a direct comparison of the two technologies. The HD Wave configuration, measuring simultaneous orthogonal bipoles, was used in 94.0% of cases. HD Grid identified a total of 119 gaps in 41 (27.3%) patients, which were missed by the CMC (Figure 1). Conclusions Assessment of PVI using the HD Grid identified residual PV conduction gaps that were missed by the CMC and standard diagnostic techniques in over a quarter of the patients evaluated. One limitation of this analysis is that the technique(s) used for confirmation of PVI were left to the discretion of the operator. Additionally, this analysis includes only workflows in which PVI was confirmed with HD Grid after confirmation using the CMC. Considering the prevalence of residual gaps observed, it is reasonable to interpret that new diagnostic catheter technologies could be critical in the pursuit of more complete and durable PVI, potentially impacting long-term clinical outcomes. Further study on other high-density mapping catheter configurations would be warranted before extrapolating these results to different technologies. Abstract Figure.

Routine surveillance of patients post Fontan palliation: lessons learnt from cardiac catheterisation

Background There is no consensus on the clinical utility of ‘routine’ diagnostic cardiac catheterisation in patients with Fontan palliation in the absence of symptoms or haemodynamic lesions. Objective We sought to evaluate whether diagnostic cardiac catheterisation for a variety of indications led to a change in the clinical management of patients with a Fontan circulation. Methods All adult patients (≥16 years) with Fontan palliation undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterisation at our institution from 2016 to 2019 were included retrospectively. Patients undergoing electrophysiological studies were excluded as haemodynamic measurements were not taken. Routine cardiac catheterisation at our institution is considered in adult patients who have not had a diagnostic cardiac catheter for more than 5 years. Results Thirty-eight patients, mean age 27 ± 7 years, 60% NYHA I, 31% NYHA II, 8% NYHA III, at mean duration post Fontan of 20 ± 6 years, lateral tunnel (LT) n = 20, extracardiac (EC) n = 14 and atriopulmonary (AP) n = 4, underwent 41 diagnostic cardiac catheterisation procedures. Indication for cardiac catheterisation was as follows: haemodynamic lesion identified on cross-sectional imaging in 12; routine catheterisation in 9; cyanosis in 8; dyspnoea in 8; significant liver stiffness on ultrasound hepatic elastography in 2; and arrhythmia in 2. Of the 9 patients undergoing routine diagnostic catheterisation, 3 had not had any diagnostic catheterisation since their Fontan completion and, in the remaining six, the mean time lapsed since the last diagnostic catheter was 8 ± 3 years. The diagnostic catheterisation led to a recommended change in clinical management on 24 occasions (59%): catheter intervention in 17 (40%); surgery in 4 (10%); medication change in 3 (17%); and transplant referral in 2 (5%). The clinical indications that led to changes in clinical management were: cyanosis (8/8), dyspnoea (7/8), haemodynamic lesions on cross-sectional imaging (8/11) and arrhythmia (1/2). None of the 9 patients listed for routine diagnostic catheterisation or as a result of findings on ultrasound hepatic elastography had a recommended change in clinical management. Conclusion Diagnostic cardiac catheterisation frequently leads to changes in the clinical management of patients with Fontan palliation presenting with dyspnoea, cyanosis, and for further evaluation of potential haemodynamic lesions identified on cross-sectional imaging. Routine cardiac catheterisation in the absence of the above indications had limited impact on clinical management in our cohort.