Right Ventriculoarterial Coupling Surrogates and Long-Term Survival in LVAD Recipients: Results of the ASSIST-ICD Multicentric Registry

Abstract

Background: Prediction of outcomes remains an unmet need in candidates for LVADs. The development of right-heart failure portends an excess in mortality rates, but imaging parameters of right ventricular systolic function have failed to demonstrate a prognostic role. By integrating pulmonary pressure, right ventriculoarterial coupling could fill this gap. Methods: The ASSIST-ICD registry was used to test right ventriculoarterial coupling as a surrogate parameter at implantation for the prediction of all-cause mortality. Results: The ratio of the tricuspid annular-plane systolic excursion over the estimated systolic pulmonary pressure (TAPSE/sPAP) was not associated with long-term survival in univariate analysis (P = 0.89), nor was the pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) (P = 0.13). Conversely, the ratio of the right atrial pressure over the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (RAP/PCWP) was associated with all-cause mortality (P < 0.01). After taking tricuspid regurgitation severity, LVAD indication, LVAD model, age, blood urea nitrogen levels, and pulmonary vascular resistance into account, RAP/PCWP remained associated with survival (HR 1.35 [1.10 – 1.65]; P < 0.01). Conclusion: Among pre-implant RVAC surrogates, only RAP/PCWP was associated with long-term all-cause mortality in LVAD recipients. This association was independent of established risk factors.