Non-interventional Study Exploring the Composition of the Valvular Microbiota of Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

The prevalence of aortic valve disease is increasing, with these valvulopathies present in half of individuals over the age of 65.

Oberbach A. et al (1) demonstrated the presence of microbiota in 52% of cases of explanted aortic valves. One current hypothesis is the role of this microbiota in the pathophysiology of these degenerative valve diseases. This microbiota is probably not completely eradicated after resection of the native valve and implantation of a conventional prosthesis; it is even left in place during percutaneous aortic valve implantation, during which the prosthesis is deployed within the native valve. It could therefore also play a role in the occurrence of postoperative complications and the degeneration or thrombosis of a bioprosthesis.

Furthermore, recent clinical and epidemiological studies have shown a link between oral infections and cardiovascular diseases. As recommended by the HAS, these patients require multidisciplinary care, involving cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and general practitioners, as well as careful oral and dental care and monitoring provided by specialists in oral pathologies and oral care. The accumulation of bacterial plaque on the surface of the tooth and certain oral bacteria causes the development of periodontal pockets which are characteristic of periodontitis. Bacteria, microbial products and inflammatory mediators produced locally can then enter the bloodstream and affect distant organs such as the cardiovascular system. The recommendations of the European Society of Cardiology are therefore to carry out regular oral and dental consultations to prevent the risk of infection. Therefore, within the Toulouse University Hospital, a care network has been set up for patients with cardiovascular pathologies, in order to improve their access to dental care, screening and management of oral diseases. For the past year, patients hospitalized in the cardiology departments have been seen in consultation in the dental department of the Toulouse University Hospital.