Lambl's excrescence in transcatheter aortic valve implantation: prevalence and risk of embolic events.

Background: The role of aortic valve Lambl's excrescence (LEs) in determining ischemic events has not been well clarified, but they can represent a potential embolic source during procedures with catheter/device manipulation through the aortic valve. Aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of LEs and the rate of embolism in patients with aortic valve stenosis scheduled for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods: Our population was divided into two groups, named LEs and no-LEs.

Every minute counts: in-hospital changes of left ventricular regional and global function in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Aims: The aim of our study was to assess the effects of an early percutaneous coronary intervention on changes of in-hospital left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and wall motion score index (WMSI) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods: The study population consisted of 324 consecutive patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, divided into two groups, according to the first medical contact (FMC)-to-reperfusion time, respectively, 90 min or less (n = 173) and more than 90 min (n = 151). Moreover, we performed a sub-analysis in the group of patients who showed at discharge an improvement in the LVEF of at least 10%.

Progression of Lactobacillus plantarum prosthetic valve endocarditis followed by transesophageal echocardiogram.

Endocarditis due to Lactobacillus species is extremely rare. We report an uncommon case of Lactobacillus plantarum bioprosthetic aortic valve endocarditis, presenting with severe aortic steno-regurgitation, which responded to conventional medical and surgical treatment. This case provides a better understanding of the disease process of L.