Outcomes of rotational atherectomy in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction without hemodynamic support

Elective insertion of a percutaneous circulatory assist device (PCAD) in high-risk patients is considered a reasonable adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). There is limited data examining the safety and efficacy of rotational atherectomy (RA) without hemodynamic support in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

We retrospectively identified 131 consecutive patients undergoing RA without elective PCAD over a three-year period. Patients were categorized into three groups: LVEF ≤30%, LVEF 31-50%, and LVEF >50%. The incidence of procedural hypotension, major adverse cardiac events (MACE), and mortality were recorded.

Statistical analysis included 18, 42, and 71 patients with LVEF ≤30%, 31-50%, and >50%, respectively. Bailout hemodynamic support was required in four cases. Analysis revealed a significant trend as bailout hemodynamic support was required in 11.1% vs 2.4% (P = 0.1551) in the ≤30% vs 31-50% and 11.1% vs 1.4% (P = 0.0416) in the ≤30% vs >50% subgroups. Combined subgroup analysis also demonstrated statistical significance 11.1% vs 1.8% (P = 0.0324) in the ≤30% vs >30% subgroups. No-reflow phenomenon was more prevalent in patients with reduced LVEF (LVEF ≤30%: 11.1%, LVEF 31-50%: 2.4%, LVEF >50%: 0%; P = 0.0190). Otherwise, no significant differences in in-hospital MACE, or mortality were observed.

RA can be effectively utilized in patients with severely reduced LVEF; however, these patients are at increased risk of prolonged procedural hypotension requiring bailout hemodynamic support. If indicated, prompt implementation of hemodynamic support mitigated any impact of procedural hypotension on in-hospital MACE and mortality.