Vincenzo Tarzia

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This study looked at how much radiation operators get to their eyes during a procedure called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), which uses X-ray guidance. It found that eye exposure during these procedures typically ranged from 30 to 110 microsieverts per procedure, with certain conditions increasing this exposure. To reduce radiation levels, using protective shields and different imaging strategies decreased eye doses significantly, showing that better practices can minimize risks for medical staff. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare staff involved in TAVI procedures.

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This study compared two methods for monitoring cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) in patients who received heart transplants: cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Among 260 patients, those who had CCTA experienced lower overall costs and shorter hospital stays, with CCTA requiring less contrast material and lower radiation exposure. These findings show that CCTA is a safer and more cost-effective option for CAV surveillance after heart transplants. Who this helps: This benefits heart transplant patients and their doctors by providing a safer and less expensive monitoring method.

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This study looked at adult patients with congenital heart disease who needed heart transplants and how additional surgical repairs during the transplant affected their recovery. Out of 40 patients analyzed, 17 needed extra repairs, while 8 (20%) died within 30 days after surgery, but the type of extra repair did not change the risk of death either right after or many years after the operation. This matters because it helps doctors understand that these additional surgeries might not impact long-term survival, which can inform treatment choices for this complex patient group. Who this helps: This helps patients with congenital heart disease and their doctors by providing insights into the surgical approaches during heart transplantation.

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This study looked at heart transplants from donors who were declared dead after their hearts stopped beating in Italy. Between May 2023 and December 2024, 40 heart transplants were performed from these donors, who had an average warm ischemia time (the time the heart was without blood flow) of about 43 minutes. The results were promising, with a 30-day survival rate of 90% and a good average heart function at discharge. Who this helps: This research benefits patients in need of a heart transplant, especially those with fewer donor options.

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This study focused on a new approach to implant a pulmonary valve in patients considered very high-risk for traditional surgery. Researchers described a case where a 59-year-old patient with a large heart condition received a Harmony valve using a combination of mini-invasive surgical techniques and traditional methods. The surgery went smoothly, and the patient's heart function improved significantly, changing from a serious level of heart failure to a much better one. Who this helps: This benefits high-risk patients who need heart valve replacement but cannot undergo standard surgical procedures.

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This study looked at a risk score called the GERAADA score, which predicts the risk of dying within 30 days after surgery for a severe condition called type A acute aortic dissection. Researchers found that the GERAADA score estimated a higher expected death rate of 18.4% compared to the EuroSCORE II, which estimated only 5.8%. These findings suggest that GERAADA may be better at accurately predicting outcomes for these surgeries, which is important because it can help doctors better assess risks for patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors by providing a more accurate tool for assessing the risks of surgery in patients with type A acute aortic dissection.

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This study examined the heart function of 345 heart transplant patients over an 11-year period to see how it related to their long-term survival. Researchers found that higher pressure measurements (arterial elastance) and lower heart performance measures (left ventricular end-systolic elastance) were linked to a greater risk of death; specifically, patients with high arterial elastance were 2.25 times more likely to die, and those with low left ventricular end-systolic elastance were 3.7 times more likely. These findings matter because they help identify patients who may need closer monitoring and intervention after their heart transplant. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors managing care after heart transplantation.

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This study looked at new, less invasive surgery options for treating atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm problem that often affects older people and can lead to serious complications like strokes. The researchers found that techniques such as mini-thoracotomy and thoracoscopic ablation are effective in restoring normal heart rhythm while causing less trauma and fewer complications than traditional open surgery. These methods can also help prevent strokes by closing off a part of the heart that can form dangerous blood clots. Who this helps: This benefits patients with atrial fibrillation, especially those who have not responded well to other treatments.

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This study looked at heart transplantation from donors who have experienced circulatory death, using a method called machine perfusion to improve the quality of the donated hearts. The research found that using this machine can help preserve hearts and lead to survival rates and rejection rates similar to those seen in heart transplants from brain-dead donors. This is important because it increases the number of viable donor hearts and improves the chances of successful transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients in need of a heart transplant.

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This study looked at heart transplant patients to see how a specific condition called afterload mismatch (AM) affects their long-term heart health. Researchers found that patients with AM had a lower heart function (57% compared to 63% and 64% in other groups) and a shorter survival time, with an average of 17.2 years for those with AM compared to 27.8 years for one other group. Importantly, having AM made patients more than twice as likely to die from heart-related issues. Who this helps: This research benefits heart transplant patients and their doctors by highlighting risks that can affect survival after the procedure.

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This study looked at how patients waiting for heart transplants did when they were supported by inotropes, a type of medication that helps the heart pump better, compared to those using other support methods like ECMO or VADs. It found that among almost 12,000 patients, those on inotropes had lower mortality rates at 30 days (3.5% vs. 14% for ECMO) and 1 year, as well as better long-term survival rates over 10 years, showing a significantly lower risk of death compared to those on other methods. This matters because it highlights that inotropes can be a safer option for patients awaiting heart transplants when mechanical support is not available. Who this helps: Patients waiting for heart transplants.

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This study looked at heart transplant outcomes for patients aged 65 and older compared to those younger than 65. Researchers found that older patients (73 in total) had a higher risk of complications after surgery and a higher chance of dying in the hospital, with 28.8% experiencing in-hospital mortality. Over a follow-up period of about 4 years, only 68% of older patients were still alive after one year, and only 62% after five years, indicating that heart transplants are riskier for older adults, but addressing certain factors like donor age may improve their outcomes. Who this helps: This research helps doctors and healthcare providers as they make decisions about heart transplants for older patients.

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This study looked at patients with severe heart failure who received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and whether doing tricuspid valve surgery at the same time affected their outcomes. Researchers analyzed data from 2,206 patients and found that while doing both surgeries didn’t change the risk of dying shortly after the procedure, those who had both surgeries had a higher chance (36% more) of needing an additional device to support the right side of the heart. They also discovered that patients who had the tricuspid valve surgery alongside the LVAD had a higher risk of dying in the long run. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors treating patients with advanced heart failure.

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This study looked at how using a special type of CT scan before a procedure called transvenous lead extraction (TLE) can help predict difficulties and complications during the procedure. Researchers found that complicated procedures happened in about 21% of patients, and those with fibrosis (scarring) longer than 40 mm on the CT scan were more likely to face complications. Additionally, 37% of procedures were deemed complex, with longer fibrosis lengths and lead calcifications making these procedures more challenging. The findings demonstrate that CT scans can help doctors assess risks and plan better for TLE procedures. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients undergoing TLE by improving safety and outcomes.

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This study looked at patients who received a new type of defibrillator called a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) after their previous one (transvenous ICD, or TV-ICD) was removed due to problems like infection (64%) or lead malfunction (36%). Out of 36 patients followed for about 31 months, 8 people (22%) died, mainly from heart failure, and 7 others (19%) faced complications related to the new device. The findings show that the S-ICD is a good option for patients who need a replacement after lead extraction, with deaths primarily linked to existing health conditions rather than the new device itself. Who this helps: This helps patients requiring a defibrillator after complications from their previous device.

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This study looked at the outcomes of cardiac surgery in Jehovah's Witnesses, who avoid blood transfusions, compared to those who accept them. Researchers analyzed data from ten studies and found that 86% of non-Jehovah's Witness patients received a transfusion, while patients in the bloodless group had less blood loss and similar rates of complications, with no significant difference in death rates. This is important because it shows that cardiac surgery can be performed safely without the need for blood transfusions, which could benefit many patients who refuse them for personal or religious reasons. Who this helps: Patients who refuse blood transfusions, especially Jehovah's Witnesses.

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This study looked at a 45-year-old man with a serious heart condition who needed a heart transplant but couldn't find a suitable donor. He participated in a program that allows transplantation from donors who have died after their heart stopped for a controlled period. They managed to successfully transplant a heart even after it had been without blood flow for 34 minutes, and afterward the patient had no signs of heart failure or rejection, leaving the hospital 39 days later in good health. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart failure who need transplants but can't find a suitable donor.

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This study looks at new devices designed to help patients who have had the Fontan surgery, which is a treatment for certain heart conditions. Researchers found that many patients develop serious complications as they grow older, such as liver failure and heart rhythm issues, and while heart transplants are the best option, they often come too late due to a shortage of donor hearts. The study highlights the potential of new pumps that could assist blood flow in these patients, though they are still being tested and need more research. Who this helps: This benefits adult patients who have undergone the Fontan procedure and are facing health complications.

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This study examined how to safely remove a specific type of heart pacing lead, known as the Medtronic 3830, from patients who had them implanted. Out of six patients, 94% of the leads were successfully extracted, and there were no major complications reported, even when special tools were required for the removal. This is important because it shows that experienced medical centers can effectively handle the removal of these leads, which may become increasingly necessary as more patients receive them. Who this helps: This helps patients with implantable heart leads, along with their doctors.

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This study looked at heart transplants from donors who died due to stopped circulation (DCD) and compared them with heart transplants from donors who died after brain death (DBD). The research found that both groups had similar survival rates at one year, with 91.1% for DCD and 90.1% for DBD patients, showing that transplants from DCD donors can be just as effective. This matters because it opens up new opportunities for heart donations, potentially helping even more patients in need of a transplant. Who this helps: Patients needing heart transplants.

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This study looked at how malnutrition affects heart transplant patients. Researchers evaluated 168 patients and found that while malnutrition scores (measured by the MUST tool) did not increase the risk of complications or death right after the surgery, higher malnutrition scores were linked to a greater risk of dying later on, with a hazard ratio of 1.28. Understanding this relationship is important because it highlights the need to address malnutrition in heart transplant patients to potentially improve their long-term survival. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart transplants and their doctors managing their nutritional health.

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This study examined a successful heart transplant from a donor who had died from a lack of blood flow (circulatory death), despite the heart being without blood for 43 minutes. The researchers used a special transport system to keep the heart cold during transportation, which helped it recover well after the transplant. This case shows that even with longer waiting times before organ removal, it’s possible to use these hearts for transplants, potentially increasing the number of available donor hearts in countries with strict regulations. Who this helps: This benefits patients on waiting lists for heart transplants.

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This study looked at patients with advanced heart failure who used both a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD). Out of 30 patients, 21 experienced some degree of electromagnetic interference, but 90% remained eligible for the S-ICD. This is important because it shows that most patients can safely use both devices together, although doctors need to be cautious about potential issues related to electromagnetic interference that could affect how the devices work. Who this helps: Patients with advanced heart failure who require mechanical support for their hearts.

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This study looked at how often patients experienced worsening of tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) after a procedure called transvenous lead extraction (TLE), which is used to remove implanted heart leads. Out of 158 patients, 5.7% had a significant increase in TR severity, especially those with longer lead implant durations and certain types of leads. This is important because severe worsening of TR can significantly raise the risk of dying, highlighting the need for doctors to be careful when performing this procedure. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing lead extraction and their doctors by improving awareness of potential complications.

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This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of using only anticoagulation medication (warfarin) for patients with a HeartMate3 device, compared to a combination of warfarin and aspirin. Out of 50 patients, those who used only warfarin had significantly fewer health complications related to blood clots, with only 2% experiencing issues compared to 34% in the group that took both medications. This is important because it shows that patients can avoid aspirin to lower the risk of bleeding without increasing the chance of clots forming. Who this helps: This benefits patients with HeartMate3 devices by potentially reducing their risk of bleeding.

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This study examined the effectiveness and safety of a device called the AngioVac system, used to remove abnormal growths from blood vessels and the heart in 44 patients from July 2016 to November 2021. The researchers found that the device successfully removed the masses in 93.2% of cases, although 6.8% experienced complications, including one death. This matters because the AngioVac offers a safer treatment alternative for patients who are at high risk for traditional surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart or blood vessel masses who might not be able to undergo major surgery.

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This study looked at patients with severe heart failure who needed a special treatment called extracorporeal life support (ECLS) and aimed to find out which lab results could predict their risk of dying. Researchers analyzed data from 208 patients and discovered that certain lab markers—like high creatinine levels and elevated bilirubin—identified patients at higher risk of dying during hospitalization. Specifically, they found that patients with high creatinine levels were about 3.7 times more likely to die compared to those with lower levels. Who this helps: This research helps doctors make better treatment decisions for critically ill heart failure patients.

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This study looked at a new way to remove a blood clot from the heart's mitral valve in a patient with severe COVID-19 who couldn't undergo traditional surgery. The researchers used a special device called the AngioVac to suction out the clot through a small incision in the chest, while a separate system helped keep the patient's blood flowing and oxygenated. This approach shows promise for safely treating heart issues in patients who are too high-risk for standard surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe heart issues who are also at high risk for surgery, particularly those with COVID-19.

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This study looked at a new technology called ex vivo machine perfusion, which helps preserve donor hearts for transplantation. It found that this method can reduce the damage that hearts experience during the time they are not receiving blood, making more hearts available for transplant, especially from less ideal donors. This is important because more options for heart transplants can save lives as the number of patients waiting for transplants continues to grow. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing heart transplants and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at using the AngioVac System, a device typically used to remove blood clots, in two young patients—a 10-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy—who needed help with breathing due to blood clots. The device worked successfully for both patients, and they showed no signs of the clots returning after one and two years. This is significant because it offers a less invasive option for treating blood clots in children and teenagers, compared to traditional surgery. Who this helps: This helps young patients with blood clots and their doctors.

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This study looked at why and how left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are replaced when they stop working properly or lead to complications, especially when a heart transplant isn't an option. It found that problems like blood clots, infections, or device failures can trigger the need for an exchange, which historically has a high risk of causing serious health issues. Understanding these factors is important because it can help improve patient care and outcomes after surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart failure who rely on LVADs.

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This study looked at a new treatment approach for patients with severe heart failure who couldn't get a heart transplant. Researchers combined two devices to create a "Hybrid BiVAD," which helped three patients recover enough for a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) after their right heart function improved. All patients had their support devices removed after seeing good recovery, which shows that this method can be a less invasive option for treating serious heart issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe heart failure who are not candidates for immediate heart transplants.

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This study looked at two treatments for severe heart failure: left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and a procedure called transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (TEER). It found that while LVADs are effective for long-term management of heart failure, they are often not used enough, especially because patients aren't referred for treatment early enough; in contrast, the use of TEER has surged in the past decade. It's important to carefully assess patients who have severe symptoms to avoid unnecessary procedures and to determine the best timing for these advanced treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced heart failure and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined the success and safety of removing old heart leads using special tools in patients whose leads had been in place for more than 10 years. Out of 441 leads from 189 patients, 94.8% were completely removed successfully, with only 1.8% failing to be extracted and a low complication rate of 2%. These results are important because they show that lead extraction can be done safely and effectively in older patients who need it, which can improve their health and reduce complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients with old heart leads and their doctors.

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This study looked at the outcomes of a procedure called transvenous lead extraction (TLE) in patients aged 80 and older, specifically using advanced tools to help with the process. Out of 83 patients, the procedure was successful in 93.9% of cases, with a 30-day mortality rate of 6%. The findings show that, although older patients have higher risks of complications, the extraction can be done safely and effectively using specialized methods, helping doctors make better decisions about heart device removals for this age group. Who this helps: This research benefits elderly patients with heart devices, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at heart transplants from two types of donors: "marginal donors" (MD), who may not be the healthiest, and "standard donors" (SD), who typically are. Out of 238 heart transplants, 64 were from MDs. The findings showed that the 5-year survival rate for MD recipients was 68%, compared to 85% for SD recipients, but well-chosen MDs can still provide good outcomes. Understanding the risks involved helps doctors make better decisions about donor selection. Who this helps: This information benefits patients waiting for heart transplants and their doctors.

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This study examined how using a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) affects patients waiting for a heart transplant. Out of 250 patients analyzed, those who received an LVAD had a significantly better chance of surviving while waiting for a transplant compared to those who did not have the device, with a 99% lower risk of death for LVAD patients versus those without it. This finding is important because it shows that LVADs can improve survival rates for heart failure patients awaiting a transplant. Who this helps: Heart transplant candidates using LVADs benefit from increased survival rates.

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This study looked at different designs and surgical methods for a heart pump called the Jarvik 2000, specifically comparing a new cone design with traditional methods in patients with severe heart failure. Out of 150 patients, those who had the new cone design with minimally invasive surgery had a one-year survival rate of 74%, compared to 58% for the traditional design. This improvement in survival and a lower rate of complications shows that using the advanced technology together with a better surgical approach can significantly benefit patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with end-stage heart failure.

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This study compared two treatments for patients experiencing severe heart failure, known as primary cardiogenic shock: traditional ECMO (a type of heart-lung support) and a newer device called CentriMage extracorporeal VAD. Among 212 patients analyzed, those using the CentriMage had a longer average support duration of about 14 days and showed a better flow rate that improves heart function, while those on ECMO had lower survival rates, especially with higher flow levels. This is important because it suggests that CentriMage might improve survival better than ECMO for these critically ill patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from severe heart problems as well as the healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at 192 patients who received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) between 2012 and 2021 to understand how different patient profiles affected survival and complications. They found that overall survival was 67% after one year and 61% after two years, with those in a specific profile (Profile 4) experiencing better survival rates. Patients implanted with LVADs on an elective basis had fewer complications and better survival, highlighting the importance of timely interventions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart failure, particularly those needing LVADs, by emphasizing the importance of early treatment.

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This study looked at a new approach to help patients who need a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) while also using a heart-lung machine (ECMO). The researchers used a special device called the ProtekDuo cannula in six patients and found it worked well, with no deaths in the first 30 days and only one patient experiencing a minor bleeding issue. This method offers a promising way to provide support for patients' right hearts during the LVAD surgery, which is crucial for those at high risk for complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing LVAD implantation and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to safely remove large infections (called vegetations) from heart device leads in patients with a condition known as cardiac device-related infective endocarditis. Researchers used a technique called the AngioVac system and found that it successfully removed over 70% of the infections in 12 out of 13 patients, with only one patient experiencing a serious complication. This approach is important because it provides a safer and effective alternative to traditional surgery for patients with these large infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients with infected heart devices and their doctors.

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This study looked at how to better analyze the effects of treatments in small clinical studies, especially in heart surgery, using a method called propensity score matching. The researchers found that using a combination of matching methods with oversampling produced more reliable results. Specifically, matching with replacement provided the best balance and accuracy, leading to stronger estimates of treatment effects. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working with small patient groups in clinical studies.