bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near zero fluoroscopy in cryoballoon catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation using the new KODEX-EPD imaging system
Authors: Schillaci V , Stabile G , Arestia A , Shopova G , Solimene F
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background. Fluoroscopy is commonly used in cryoballoon catheter ablation for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation procedures in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Objective The purpose of this study was to verify the feasibility of a new dielectric imaging system in reducing the radiation exposure during cryoballoon ablation in patients with AF.

Methods We enrolled 26 consecutive patients with paroxysmal AF: 13 patients underwent the procedure under fluoroscopy guidance before the new system introduction, while 13 patient underwent the procedure under fluoroscopy and KODEX-EPD system guidance with its occlusion tool software. After transseptal access a detailed image reconstruction of left atrium and PVs was achieved with the Achieve octapolar circular mapping catheter and the cryoablation was performed with the Arctic Front Advance cryoballoon.

Results Total time of the procedure was comparable between the two groups (90.15 ± 28.67 vs 80.77 ± 17.17 using KODEX-EPD, p = 0.34), while fluoroscopy time was significantly lower in the group using KODEX-EPD (16.92 ± 8.96 vs 5.54 ± 2.06, p < 0.01). Acute isolation was achieved in all PVs. No 30 days complication was observed.

Conclusion This is the first study that demonstrates the feasibility of a reduce fluoroscopy workflow using the novel KODEX-EPD system in a cryoballoon procedure. Abstract Figure. Fluoroscopy time
Are there gender differences in the non-prescription of Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs) in primary prevention? A single-center series
Authors: Aguilera C , Toquero Ramos J , Mingo Santos S , Garcia-Izquierdo Jaen E , Jimenez Sanchez D , Pham-Trung C , Veloza Urrea D , Morillo Diaz JD , Garcia Rodriguez D , Garcia Gomez S , Remior Perez P , Castro Urda V , Fernandez Lozano I
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Primary prevention of sudden cardiac death is the main indication for ICD implantation, mainly based on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Gender differences in the diagnosis and treatment of some cardiology conditions such as myocardial infarction have been previously established.

Purpose

We aim to analyze differences in prognostic variables that could justify gender differences in the non-prescription of an ICD for primary prevention.  

Methods

A retrospective selection of patients from our center during 2019 with ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVED ≤35% in an echocardiogram) was made. We included patients at least one month after an acute myocardial infarction and with optimal medical treatment without an ICD. Death was considered during the year 2019.

Results

 We initially selected 325 patients with ventricular dysfunction, of wich 175 fulfilled the inclusion criteria (67.4% men and 32.6% women). ICD indication was considered in 47 patients out of the 175 selected (29.7% among men and 21.1% among women, p = 0.7; 70.3% among men and 78.9% among women, p= 0.30 for non-prescription). The index left ventricle end-diastolic volume (iLVEDV) was significantly worse in males. Females were older and had lower LVEF.

Conclusion

Although it is a unicenter study and we have only performed univariate comparisons, without considering confounding factors, we found no significant gender differences in prognostic variables that could justify differences in the non-prescription of an ICD for primary prevention. Results Variable Men Women p-value Age (years) 74.53 ± 0.11 79.52 ± 0.15 <0.01 Previous cancer disease 11 (13.25%) 4 (8.89%) 0.77 Cognitive impairment 12 (14.46%) 11 (24.44%) 0.08 NYHA class Mean NYHA class value I (12.05%)II (69.88%)III (18.07%)2.06 ± 0.11 I (6.67%)II (66.67%)III (26.67%)2.20 ± 0.15 0.23 Ischemic etiology 39 (46.99%) 17 (37.78) 0.84 Renal insufficiency 31 (37.35%) 21 (46.67%) 0.15 Syncope or palpitations 16 (19.28%) 8 (17.78%) 0.58 LVEDD index (cm/m2) 2.57 ± 0.11 2.71 ± 0.15 0.23 LVEDV index (ml/m2) 73.18 ± 0.11 66.84 ± 0.15 1 LVEF (%) 28.89 ± 0.11 27.17 ± 0.15 1 Death 17 (20.48%) 8 (17.78%) 0.64 Renal insufficiency: estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 30 ml/min/1,73m2 or dialysis. LVEDD: left ventricle end-diastolic diameter. NYHA: New York Heart Association.
Performance of the C2HEST score to predict sustained atrial high-rate episodes in patients implanted with cardiac implantable electronic device
Authors: Pastori D , Li YG , Miyazawa K , Shahid F , Lip GYH
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Sustained atrial high-rate episodes (SAHRE), which are considered ‘subclinical atrial fibrillation’ (AF), increase the risk of adverse outcomes in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED). Risk stratification for the development of SAHREs has never been investigated.

Purpose

To assess test the performance of the C2HEST score (coronary artery disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1 point each]; hypertension [1 point]; elderly [age ≥75 years, 2 points]; systolic heart failure [2 points]; thyroid disease [1 point]) in predicting SAHRE in patients implanted with CIED without AF.

Methods

Retrospective study including 500 consecutive patients implanted with CIEDs in the West Birmingham in the UK. Patients were followed after implantation to record the development of SAHRE lasting >24h. Risk factors and incidence of SAHRE were analyzed. The predictive value of the C2HEST score for SAHRE prediction was evaluated.

Results

During 53.1 months of follow-up, 44 (8.8%) patients developed SAHRE. SAHRE was associated with higher all-cause mortality (P < 0.001) and ischemic stroke (P = 0.001). Age and heart failure were associated with SAHRE occurrence. The incidence of SAHRE increased by the C2HEST score (39% higher risk per point increase)(table). Among those with C2HEST score ≥4, the incidence of SAHRE was 3.62%/year (95%CI 2.14-5.16). The C2HEST score had a moderate predictive capability (area under the curve 0.73 [95%CI 0.64-0.81]) and discriminative ability (log-rank P = 0.003), which was better than other clinical scores (CHA2DS2-VASc, CHADS2, HATCH).

Conclusions

The C2HEST score predicted SAHRE incidence in non-AF subjects with CIED, with the highest risk seen in patients with C2HEST score ≥4 The benefit of using the C2HEST score in clinical practice in this patient population needs further investigation. C2HEST score Subjects n (%) SAHRE (n) Incident rate (95%CI) Hazard Ratio (95% CI) P 0-1 144 (28.5%) 5 0.85 (0.27-1.94) Reference Reference 2-3 211 (42.2%) 17 1.87 (1.06-2.91) 2.06 (0.76-5.59) 0.159 ≥4 145 (29.0%) 22 3.62 (2.14-5.16) 4.25 (1.61-11.22) 0.004
Impact of atrial fibrillation pattern on left atrial appendage closure: insights from the prospective LAARGE registry
Authors: Kany S , Brachmann J , Lewalter T , Akin I , Sievert H , Zeymer U , Ledwoch J , Ince H , Thomas D , Hochadel M , Senges J , Kirchhof P , Rillig A
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Stiftung für Herzinfarkforschung

Background

 Non-paroxysmal (NPAF) forms of atrial fibrillation (AF) have been reported to be associated with an increased risk for systemic embolism or death compared with paroxysmal AF (PAF). This study investigates the procedural safety and long-term outcomes of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in patients with different forms of AF.

Methods

 Comparison of procedural details and long-term outcomes in patients (pts) with PAF against controls with NPAF in the prospective, multicentre observational registry of patients undergoing LAAC in Germany (LAARGE). 

Results

 A total of 638 pts (PAF 274 pts, NPAF 364 pts) were enrolled. NPAF consisted of 31.6% patients with persistent AF and 68.4% with longstanding persistent AF or permanent AF. In both groups, a history of PVI was rare (4.0% vs 1.6%, p = 0.066). The PAF group had significantly less history of heart failure (19.0% vs 33.0%, p < 0.001) while the current median LVEF was similar (60% vs 60%, p = 0.26). The total CHA2DS2-VASc score was lower in the PAF group (4.4 ± 1.5 vs 4.6 ± 1.5, p = 0.033), but no difference in the HAS-BLED score (3.8 ± 1.1 vs 3.9 ± 1.1, p = 0.40) was observed. The rate of successful implantation was equally high (97.4% vs 97.8%, p = 0.77) in both groups. In the three-month echo follow-up, device-related thrombi (2.1% vs 7.3%, p = 0.12) and peridevice leak >5 mm (0.0% vs 7.1%, p= 0.53) were numerically higher in the NPAF group. Overall, in-hospital complications occurred in 15.0% of the PAF cohort and 10.7% of the NPAF cohort (p = 0.12). In the one-year follow-up, unadjusted mortality (8.4% vs 14.0%, p = 0.039) and combined outcome of death, stroke and systemic embolism (8.8% vs 15.1%, p = 0.022) were significantly higher in the NPAF cohort. After adjusting for CHA2DS2-VASc and previous bleeding, NPAF was associated with increased death/stroke/systemic embolism (HR 1.67, 95%-CI: 1.02-2.72).

Conclusion

 Atrial fibrillation type did not impair periprocedural safety or in-hospital MACE of patients undergoing LAAC. However, after one year, NPAF was associated with higher mortality and combined outcome of death, stroke and systemic embolism.
Impaired left atrial reservoir and conduit strain in patients with atrial fibrillation and extensive fibrosis
Authors: Hopman LHG , Mulder MJ , Van Der Laan AM , Demirkiran A , Bhagirath P , Van Rossum AC , Allaart CP , Gotte MJW
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with profound structural and functional changes in the atria. Timely interventions may decelerate and perhaps reverse this pathophysiologic process and improve clinical outcome. In this regard, detailed characterization of the atrial remodeling process, and understanding of the interplay between structural remodeling and function is essential.

Purpose

In the present study, we investigated the association between left atrial (LA) phasic function and the extent of LA fibrosis using advanced cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging techniques, including 3-dimensional (3D) late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and Feature Tracking.

Methods

Patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF (n = 93) underwent CMR in sinus rhythm. LA global reservoir strain, conduit strain and contractile strain were derived from cine CMR images using Feature Tracking. The extent of LA fibrosis was assessed from 3D LGE images. Healthy volunteers underwent CMR and served as controls (n = 19).

Results

Significantly lower reservoir strain, conduit strain and contractile strain were found in AF patients, as compared to controls (-15.7 ± 3.9% vs. -21.1 ± 3.6% P < 0.001, -8.6 ± 2.9% vs. -12.6 ± 2.5% P < 0.001 and -7.1 ± 2.4% vs. -8.6 ± 2.2% P = 0.02, respectively) (Figure A, B, C). Patients with a high degree of LA fibrosis (dichotomized by the median value) had lower reservoir strain and conduit strain compared to patients with a low degree of LA fibrosis (-14.7 ± 4.0% vs. -16.8 ± 3.5%, P = 0.02 and -7.7 ± 2.7% vs. -9.5 ± 2.9%, P < 0.01, respectively). In contrast, no difference was found for LA contractile strain (-7.0 ± 2.3% vs. -7.3 ± 2.5%, P = 0.62) (Figure D, E, F).

Conclusions

This study shows impaired LA reservoir and conduit strain in AF patients with extensive atrial fibrosis. Of interest, LA contractile function was largely unaffected. Future studies are required to study the biologic nature of this association and possible therapeutic implications. Abstract Figure.
Prognostic significance of diabetes mellitus in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Papazoglou A , Kartas A , Samaras A , Vouloagkas I , Vrana E , Moysidis D , Akrivos E , Kotzampasis G , Papanastasiou A , Baroutidou A , Botis M , Tsagkaris C , Karagiannidis E , Tzikas A , Giannakoulas G
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Despite the plethora of studies on atrial fibrillation (AF) and diabetes mellitus (DM), there is still no sufficient data on the blood glucose regulation as a prognostic modifier in DM patients with AF.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of DM and levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with outcomes in patients with AF.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients who were recently hospitalized with a primary or secondary diagnosis of AF from December 2015 through June 2018. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox-regression adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) were calculated for the primary outcome of all-cause mortality and for the secondary outcomes of cardiovascular (CV) mortality, stroke and the composite outcome of CV death or hospitalization. Spline curve models were fitted to investigate associations of HbA1c values and mortality among patients with AF and DM.

Results

In total 1140 AF patients were included, of whom 373 (32.7%) had DM. During a median follow-up of 2.6 years, 414 (37.3%) patients died. The presence of DM was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality (aHR = 1.44, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.12-1.85), CV mortality (aHR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.08-1.93), stroke (aHR = 2.62, 95% CI: 1.24-5.53) and the composite outcome of hospitalization or CV death (aHR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.06-1.54). In AF patients with comorbid DM, the spline curves showed a positive linear association between HbA1c levels and outcomes, with values <6.2% predicting significantly decreased all-cause and CV mortality.

Conclusions

The presence of DM on top of AF was associated with a 1.5-fold increased risk for all-cause or CV mortality and excess morbidity. HbA1c levels lower than 6.2% were independently related to better survival rates. Follow-up outcomes by presence of DMOutcomeDMNon-DMAdjusted HR(95% CI)p-valueAll-cause death171/373 (45.8%)243/736 (33%)1.44 (1.12-1.85)<0.001CV-death130/373 (34.9%)173/736 (23.5%)1.44 (1.08-1.93)<0.001Major bleeding18/340 (5.3%)29/644 (4.5%)1.53 (0.71-3.28)0.291Stroke24/340 (7.1%)28/645 (4.3%)2.62 (1.24-5.53)0.013AF-related hospitalization59/340 (17.4%)115/645 (17.8%)1.20 (0.78-1.85)0.281HF-related hospitalization35/333 (10.5%)46/640 (7.2%)1.34 (0.83-2.19)0.235Hospitalization or CV-death243/373 (65.1%)399/736(54.2%)1.28 (1.06-1.54)<0.001*Adjusted for: age, gender, smoking, BMI, history of hypertension, eGFR (CKD-EPI) and use of statin, ACEI-ARB, OAC and rate control medication after discharge.DM, diabetes mellitus; HR, hazard ratio; AF, atrial fibrillation; CV, cardiovascular; HF, heart failure.Abstract Figure. Visual overview of the study
Impact of Atrial Fibrillation type in Acute Coronary Syndrome and the antithrombotic strategy
Authors: Marques Pires C , Medeiros P , Oliveira C , Flores R , Mane F , Silva R , Campos I , Azevedo P , Gaspar A , Pereira MA , Galvao CB , Antunes N , Marques J
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

INTRODUCTION

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an adverse prognostic factor during acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Current evidence recommends dual antithrombotic therapy (DAT), 1 antiplatelet drug and 1 anticoagulant drug, as the default strategy after nonST elevation ACS.

AIM

To identify the clinical differences and prognosis of AF type-new onset (nAF) or pre-existing (pFA)- during ACS, to evaluate antithrombotic strategy at hospital discharge (HD) and its impact on haemorrhagic and ischemic events.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational cohort study including 3241 patients (pts) with ACS (mean age 64 years, 77.5% male) admitted to a single center over a 6-year period, with 12-months follow-up.

RESULTS

AF rhythm was identified in 11.2% pts, of whom 63.2% presented nAF and 36.8% pAF.

When AF types where compared, pts with pAF had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular (Cv) comorbidities, including hypertension (p < 0.001), previous ACS (p = 0.03), valvular disease (p = 0.01) or stroke (p = 0.05), had greater left atrial diameter (p < 0.001) and were less likely to have significant coronary lesions (p = 0.05). Pts with nAF more frequently presented with STelevation ACS (p < 0.001) and had a lower Hemoglobin nadir (p < 0.001). The independent predictors of nAF in ACS were age (OR 1.1, p< =0.001), LVEF ≤ 40% (OR 2.2, p = 0.001), STelevation ACS (OR 2.6, p< =0.001) and previous valvular disease (OR 3.5, p< =0.01). Compared with the population without AF, nAF was a predictor of in-hospital death (OR 2.9, p = 0.027) and in-hospital composite endpoint (death, stroke, reinfarction and cardiogenic shock) (OR 2.5, p = 0.001) in multivariate analysis, but pAF wasn’t. During 12-months follow-up of pts with ACS and AF, there was no difference regarding death or follow-up composite endpoint (death, stroke and ACS) between the AF types.Regarding antithrombotic therapy, nAF pts were less often anticoagulated (p < 0.001) and pAF pts where more often treated with triple antithrombotic therapy (TAT) at HD (<0.001). Most of the pts with TAT stopped the second antiplatelet at agent 6-months (43.8%) or 12 months (25.5%) after HD. During 12-months follow-up, pts discharged with TAT had trend towards more haemorrhagic events (TAT 6.2% vs DAT2.7%,p = 0.69) and both groups had similar ischaemic events (death, ACS, stroke) (TAT 20.9% vs DAT23.7%,p = 0.714). In multivariate analysis the choice of TAT or DAT wasn’t a predictor of ischaemic events.

CONCLUSIONS

In ACS, pts with nAF had worst in-hospital outcomes than pts with pAF. Regarding antithrombotic strategy at HD pts with nFA were less often anticoagulated and less often treated with TAT. In our study the choice between DAT or TAT had no statistical impact on follow-up outcomes.
Atrial fibrillation burden of illness: epidemiology and annual economic impact
Authors: Tito F , Borghetti F
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

BACKGROUND

The totality of evidence on atrial fibrillation (AF) highlights its role in reducing the quality of life and increasing the risk of developing complications, which are responsible in a considerable increase in the consumption of health resources.

PURPOSE

Considering the high incidence and prevalence of AF, physicians should be aware of the burden of the disease to provide a timely and effective response.

This analysis aims to calculate the annual economic impact of AF in Italy.

METHOD

A model was developed to assess the economic impact of AF including the probability of the related complications occurring.

The number of patients affected by AF was computed by applying to the over-65 years old population residing in Italy on 1th January 2020 the prevalence by the international literature. The separate prevalence of paroxysmal, persistent and permanent AF was considered as well as % of patients with and without symptoms. As according to data coming from literature, the % of patients under treatment is unfortunately very low, thus the general assumption that AF patients were untreated was done.

A literature review was then conducted to collect validated relative risk (%RR) for each AF complication. If present in literature, the direct healthcare costs per patient/year were included in the model or, alternatively, the DRG tariffs as a proxy.

The actualized costs linked to all complications were then used to estimate the economic impact of AF patients from the Italian National Healthcare System perspective.

RESULTS

According to this analysis, AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and in Italy in 2020 affected approx. 1.018.128 people: 104.942 (65-69 ages); 187.437 (70-74 ages); 223.418 (75-79 ages); 307.406 (80-84 ages); 353.911 (85+ ages). Patients were subdivided by AF conditions: a total of 205.662 patients with paroxysmal AF (82.265 symptomatic), 247.405 patients with persistent AF (113.806 symptomatic) and 565.061 patients with permanent AF (79.109 symptomatic).

This economic model estimated the number of events occurred and monetizes the healthcare resource use for the management of complications. The number of events yearly experienced was: 366.526 for any stroke, 1.354.110 for Dementia, 1.130.122 for Heart Failure, 671.964 for Chronic kidney disease,142.538 for Ischemic heart disease, 699.454 for Peripheral arterial disease.

The total cost of patients, considering the burden of complications defined before, for 2020 was about 25 billion. This is probably an underestimation, as each patient could experience more than one complication and consequently their annual cost increases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data confirm that the costs of AF complications have a considerable impact on resource consumption. Thus, in a context of a cost containment, measures to reduce both the risk of developing AF and the risk of making the disease worse are strongly needed.
Incidence of atrial fibrillation in patients with diabetes mellitus: effect of sex, age and type of diabetes in a nationwide analysis
Authors: Fauchier L , Bisson A , Fauchier G , Bodin A , Herbert J , Angoulvant D , Ducluzeau PH , Lip GYH
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background. There remain uncertainties regarding diabetes mellitus and the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF), in relation to type of diabetes, and the interactions with sex and age. We investigated whether diabetes confers higher relative rates of AF in women compared to men, and whether these sex-differences depend on type of diabetes and age.

Methods. All patients aged > =18 seen in French hospitals in 2013 with at least 5 years of follow-up without a history of AF were identified and categorized by their diabetes status. We calculated overall and age-dependent incidence rates, hazard ratios, and women-to-men ratios for incidence of AF in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (compared to no diabetes).

Results. In 2,921,407 patients with no history of AF (55% women), 45,389 had prevalent type 1 diabetes and 345,499 had prevalent type 2 diabetes. During 13.5 million person-years of follow-up, 327,012 patients with new-onset AF were identified. The incidence rates (IRs) of AF were higher in type 1 or type 2 diabetic patients than in non-diabetics, and increased with advancing age. Among individuals with diabetes, the absolute rate of AF was higher in men than in women. When comparing individuals with and without diabetes, women had a higher adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of AF than men: adjusted HR 1.32 (95% confidence interval 1.27-1.37) in women vs. 1.12(1.08-1.16) in men for type 1 diabetes, adjusted HR 1.17(1.16-1.19) in women vs. 1.10(1.09-1.12) in men for type 2 diabetes.  The adjusted HRs for women were significantly higher than the adjusted HRs for men as shown with the adjusted women-to-men ratios (adjusted WMR = adjusted HR women compared to adjusted HR men) = 1.18 (95%CI 1.12-1.24) for type 1 diabetes and 1.10 (95%CI 1.08-1.12) for type 2 diabetes. This phenomenon was seen across all ages in men and women with type 1 diabetes and progressively decreased with advancing age.  In type 2 diabetes, this phenomenon was seen after 50 years, increased until 60-65 years and then progressively decreased with advancing age.

Conclusion. Although men have higher absolute rates for incidence of AF, the relative rates of incident AF associated with diabetes are higher in women than in men for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
The impact of oral direct thrombin inhibitors on activated clotting time during catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mine T , Kitagaki R , Fukuhara E , Ishihara M
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) unlike factor Xa-inhibitors (Xa-inhibitors) is associated with fewer bleeding complications than warfarin in patients who had catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the mechanisms remains unclear, and activated clotting time (ACT) is used to control heparin-dose for thromboembolic prevention during CA. Methods: We retrospectively studied 543 patients taking direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) who underwent CA for AF (375 males, age 67 ± 10, 251 non-paroxysmal AF, 142 DTIs). Patients with off-label usage of DOAC were excluded. ACT was measured before (Pre-ACT) and after (post-ACT) initial heparin administration (3000U + 100U/kg), and total heparin-dose was evaluated. Results: Pre-ACT and post-ACT were extended in patients with DTIs (150 ± 21 vs 123 ± 15; P < 0.0001 and 322 ± 39 vs 309 ± 42 sec; P = 0.0013). Patients with Xa-inhibitors required higher total heparin-dose (199 ± 43 vs 175 ± 34 U/kg; P < 0.0001). During and after CA, none had thromboembolic events and 14 patients (3 DTIs, 11 Xa-inhibitor) showed bleeding events (Figure). Conclusions: ACT is extended in patients taking DTIs. Xa-inhibitors might have anticoagulant effects which are not reflected in ACT. Abstract Figure.
Spatial and quantitative assessment of the correlation between sinus rhythm and atrial fibrillation voltage mapping to identify low voltage substrate in persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Nairn D , Nagel C , Mueller-Edenborn B , Lehrmann H , Jadidi A , Loewe A
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) through DO637/22-3 Ministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kunst Baden-Württemberg through the Research Seed Capital (RiSC) program.

Introduction

Presence of left atrial (LA) fibrotic low voltage substrate (LVS) is associated with high risk for arrhythmia recurrences in patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF). PVI and additional ablation of LVS - as identified by mapping in sinus rhythm (SR) or AF - has been reported to improve SR maintenance rates, despite differences of the extent and distribution of LA-LVS in SR versus AF. 

Aims

To study the relationship between SR and AF voltage maps, we sought to identify the optimal AF voltage threshold providing the highest concordance in the extent and distribution of LVS when comparing voltage maps in SR vs. AF.

Methods

Using the statistical shape modelling software Scalismo, the voltage information from the SR and AF maps (acquired prior to PVI) from 28 patients (66 ± 7 years, 46% male, 82% persistent AF) was projected onto a representative LA-geometry. Sensitivity and specificity of LVS identification were calculated for varying thresholds during AF and the correlation between the SR (threshold 0.5mV) and AF maps was assessed and areas of agreeing LVS classification (SR & AF) were identified for each patient. The data of all 28 patients were combined to a spatial histogram of agreement between SR and AF low voltage maps.

Results

 The correlation between SR and AF maps was high across all patients, with agreement at 60-95% of all mapped sites (Figure A: each red triangle represents one patient and the respective agreement of LVS classification and substrate extent).  The optimal AF threshold - to identify LA-LVS <0.5 mV in SR - was 0.29 mV (Q1-3: 0.20-0.37 mV) and was independent of the underlying extent of LVS during SR (Figure A: each blue asterisk represents one patient and the corresponding AF threshold and substrate extent). Agreement between LVS in AF vs. SR was high across most (>90) patients on the anterior LA, lateral LA and the left atrial appendage. Lower agreement (60% of patients) was observed in the posterior wall (Figure B).

Conclusions

SR and AF voltage maps reveal high spatial concordance in low voltage substrate at the anterior LA, lateral LA and LA appendage, however significant discordances in LVS are found in 40% of patients at the posterior LA. Further studies on an extended patient cohort should assess if regional voltage-thresholds would result in an improved substrate concordance between AF and SR substrate maps. Abstract Figure.
Effect of continuous positive airway pressure therapy on recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hunt T-E , Traaen GM , Aakeroy L , Bendz C , Oeverland B , Akre H , Steinshamn S , Loennechen JP , Haugaa KH , Gullestad L , Anfinsen O-G
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority

OnBehalf

OUH

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Studies have reported an association between OSA and increased AF burden, as well as increased recurrence of AF after catheter ablation. However, whether treatment with positive airway pressure (CPAP) can reduce the risk of AF recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation has still not been established.

Purpose

This is the first randomized study evaluating the effect of CPAP treatment on AF recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation in patients with AF and OSA.

Methods

Consecutive patients with AF referred for catheter ablation were included after being screened positive for OSA (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 15 events/h). All patients received an implantable loop recorder 6 months prior to ablation to quantify the arrhythmia burden. Patients were randomized to CPAP treatment or no treatment of OSA during five months before and 12 months after ablation. The primary end point was AF recurrence, defined as one episode of AF lasting longer than 30 seconds after catheter ablation, with an initial 90-day blanking period. We also compared AF burden measured in percent of time in AF and assessed five months before and 3-12 months after catheter ablation.

Results

We included 83 patients (65% male, age 61 ± 7.3 years), of which 37 patients were treated with CPAP and 46 controls. The mean baseline AHI in patients with CPAP was 26.7 ± 14.7 and in patients with usual care 26.3 ± 12.3. AF-burden prior to catheter ablation expressed as median [IQR] percent of time was 2.7 [0.9-9.1] in the CPAP-group compared to 1.8 [0.2-6.4] in the control group (p = 0.24). There was no signal to a difference in AF recurrence rate between patients with or without CPAP treatment. As shown in figure, we found overlapping curves with a final 21 patients [57%] vs. 26 patients (57%) presenting at least 30 seconds of AF. After catheter ablation and blanking period, patients with CPAP treatment had an AF burden of 0.0 [0.0-0.3] % compared to 0.0 [0.0-0.3] % in patients without CPAP (p = 0.64).

Conclusion

In this randomized study concomitant treatment with CPAP on top of pulmonary vein isolation had no added effect on the risk of AF recurrence in patients with OSA. Although several patients revealed at least 30 seconds of AF 3-12 months after ablation, there was a great reduction in percent AF burden after catheter ablation independent of CPAP treatment. Abstract Figure
Early discharge after cryoablation procedure: is it safe?
Authors: Silverio Antonio P , Rodrigues T , Brito J , Pereira S , Valente Silva B , Alves Da Silva P , Cunha N , Nunes-Ferreira A , Bernardes A , Lima Da Silva G , Carpinteiro L , Cortez-Dias N , J Pinto F , De Sousa J
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Discharge after overnight hospital stay is standard procedure in patients submitted to elective atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Taking into consideration the low rate of cryoablation procedure complications could the same day discharge be an option?

Purpose

To access the safety of same day discharge of patients submitted to AF cryoablation.

Methods

Single-center retrospective study of consecutive pts admitted to elective AF cryoablation in a tertiary center between February 2017 and November 2020. Patients were divided into two groups: same day discharge and next day discharge. Only patients submitted to ablation until 4 p.m. were included. Complication rates were obtained up to six months after the procedure. Complications were defined as death, pericardial tamponade, hematoma requiring evaluation and/or intervention, major bleeding requiring transfusion, hospital admission related to the procedure.

Results

One hundred fifty-four pts were included, with a mean age of 61 ± 10.9 years, 66.2% were males, 18.2% with diabetes, 65.6% with dyslipidemia, 77.9% with hypertension, 10.4% with chronic kidney disease KDIGO stage 3 or more. Median follow-up of 436 (IQ 178 – 729) days. Most of the pts had paroxysmal (73.4%) and persistent short duration AF (23.4%). Sixty-two pts (40.3%) were early discharged and there were no differences between the two groups regarding epidemiological and clinical characteristics (p = NS).

A very low rate of complications in both groups was observed, occurring in 6.5% of pts with early discharge and in 8.7% of pts in overnight stay, without statistical significance between the two groups (p = 0.61). The most frequent complications were local hematoma (5 pts, 2 in early discharged group), pericardial effusion (3 pts, all in overnight stay), femoral pseudo-aneurism (2 pts, 1 in each group) and arteriovenous fistula (1 pt in overnight stay group). The type of complications did not differ between the two groups (p = 0.51). Two pts died during the follow up, unrelated with the procedure.

In addition, no difference in success rate and arrhythmic recurrence was observed between the two groups. (p = NS)

Conclusion

Our study suggests that is safe to early discharge pts submitted to AF ablation, reducing the hospital stay length in selected pts. Larger studies are needed to confirm this data before routine implementation of this strategy.
Cinderella drug: an antazoline is effective in pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation - Single center experience
Authors: Miskowiec D , Dembowski T , Cwiek-Rebowska E , Qawoq HD , Zycinski P , Michalski B , Kupczynska K , Kasprzak JD
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Antazoline (ANT) is an old antihistaminic medication with antiarrhythmic properties. After intravenous administration ANT exerts rapid antiarrhythmic effect often resulting in conversion of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR). However, published data on its effectiveness, safety and  clinical utility for rapid AF termination are limited and ANT is not recognized as a cardioversion drug. 

Aim

To assess the real-world efficacy of ANT for pharmacological cardioversion of paroxysmal and persistent non-valvular AF. 

Methods

We conducted a single center, retrospective, observational study including patients (pts) with history paroxysmal or persistent AF episode lasting less than 6 months, in stable cardiopulmonary condition who were qualified for elective pharmacological cardioversion with intravenous ANT. The primary end-point was the conversion of AF to SR confirmed in electrocardiography (ECG) during the 6-hours observation. 

Results

A total of 176 pts (mean age 68.4 ± 12.0 years, 49% male) were enrolled into the study. In 93 patients (52%) AF duration was shorter than 48 hours and median AF duration time was 24 (7 – 432) hours. The overall success rate of pharmacological cardioversion of AF with intravenous ANT was 45.5% (80/176 pts). The mean used dose of ANT was 250.9 ± 65.4mg. The subgroup analysis, regarding the AF duration, suggested the effectiveness of ANT mainly in in short-lasting AF (effectiveness of antazoline based cardioversion for AF lasting <48h vs others:  75.3% vs 12.0%,  p < 0.001). In multivariable logistic regression model AF duration (for every 24h in AF - OR = 0.97; 95% CI 0.96 – 0.98), the left atrium antero-posterior diameter (OR = 0.92; 95% CI 0.86 – 0.99) and the serum creatinine level (OR = 0.15; 95% CI 0.03 – 0.73) were identified as  independent predictors of antazoline based pharmacological cardioversion effectiveness, even after adjustment for comorbidities. The ROC curves revealed that the optimal cut-off value for AF duration time predicting ANT’s effectiveness was 48h (AUC = 0.876; 95% CI 0.815 – 0.922). There were only one episode of bradycardia <45 bpm related to ANT administration. 

Conclusions

Intravenous antazoline administration is effective and safe in rapid pharmacological cardioversion of paroxysmal AF, especially in the short-lasting AF (<48 hours) and in patients without the left atrium enlargement and significant renal disease. Abstract Figure.
Predictive value of diabetes mellitus for freedom from arrhythmia recurrence after cryoballoon-guided pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Guckel D , Isgandarova K , Bergau L , El Hamriti M , Imnadze G , Braun M , Khalaph M , Lee-Barkey YH , Tschoepe D , Sommer P , Sohns D
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been identified to play an important role in the regulation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Data concerning the impact of DM on the development of individual arrhythmia substrates are still lacking.

Purpose

Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to examine the outcome of cryoballoon-guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients (pts) suffering from DM and coexisting AF.

Methods

523 consecutive pts undergoing initial PVI using the 2nd generation cryoballoon were analysed. 273 pts (52%) suffered from paroxysmal AF (PAF) (51 ± 23.2 years old, 26% female), 250 pts (48%) from persistent AF (PERS) (63.9 ± 10.0 years old, 30% female) and 69 pts (13%) were diagnosed with DM (68 ± 19.6 years old, 30% female). Follow-up (FU) visits were performed at 3, 6 and 12 months including 7-day Holter ECGs. Primary endpoint was the first documented recurrence of any atrial arrhythmia after a 3 months blanking period (> 30 sec.).

Results

Within the observation period of 12 months AF recurrence occurred in 29% (n = 151 pts). Regardless of the coincidence of DM, PAF pts were significantly younger than those with PERS (p = 0.001). PAF pts additionally suffering from DM presented with a significantly higher risk for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.047). Multivariate analyses verified DM as a strong independent predictor for arrhythmia recurrence associated with a > 4 fold higher risk for recurrence after ablation (p = 0.009, hazard ratio (HR) 4.363, confidence interval (CI) 1.46-13.07). PERS pts showed a slightly increased rate of arrhythmia recurrence when additional DM was diagnosed. In these patients multivariate analyses revealed that DM was associated with a 43% higher risk for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.321, HR 1.143, CI 0.59-2.22). Beyond that, severe gender disparities were observed with female gender as independent predictor for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.027*, HR 1.927, CI 1.079-3.440).

Conclusions

DM has relevant implication for arrhythmia recurrence after PVI. More distinct effects were observed in PAF patients following AF ablation. This could be related to more severe arrhythmia substrates in PAF pts suffering from DM compared to PAF pts without additional DM and even more substantial structural changes in PERS. Thus, individual paths in ablation management are required in these pts with AF and coexisting DM.
Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in very young patients
Authors: Yalin K , Ikitimur B , Aksu T , Soysal AU , Lyan E , Eitel C , Vogler J , Saygi S , Heeger CH , Tilz RR
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Pulmonary vein automaticity is an established trigger of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) making pulmonary vein isolation (PVI)  the cornerstone for catheter ablation. However, data on triggers of AF and catheter ablation strategy in very young (<30 years old) patients are sparse.

Methods and results: Sixteen young patients (mean age 25.2 ± 4.9 years; 75% men) with recurrent drug refractory PAF underwent EP study and ablation at 3 EP centers. None of the patients had structural heart disease or family history of AF. EP study revealed degeneration of induced supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) into AF in 5 patients (n = 5, 31.2%). Induced SVTs were left lateral concealed accessory pathway mediated orthodromic AVRT in two patients, typical AVNRT in two patients, and left superior PV tachycardia in one patient respectively. In patients with induced SVTs, SVT ablation without PVI was performed as an index procedure. Remaining patients underwent second generation cryoballoon (CB-2) based PVI (n = 11, 68.7%). There were no major complications related to ablation procedures. Follow-up was based on outpatient visits including 24-h Holter-ECG at 3, 6 and, 12 months post ablation, or additional Holter-ECG was ordered in case of symptoms suggesting recurrence. Recurrence was defined as any atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) episode >30s following a 3-month blanking period. After a median follow-up of 18.3 ± 6.2 months, 13 of 16 (81.2%) patients were free of ATA recurrence. None of the patients belonging to SVT ablation only group experienced ATA recurrence. Three patients with previous CB-2 PVI recurred, one had typical atrial flutter and underwent CTI ablation, remaining 2 patients had AF recurrence and medically followed.

Conclusion

In a considerable fraction of young adult patients with history of PAF SVTs may be responsible and SVT ablation without PVI may be sufficient as an index procedure. Catheter ablation AF seems to be safe and effective in this population.
Left atrial scar burden in sinus rhythm differs from atrial fibrillation using automated voltage analysis during radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mannion J , Lennon SJ , Kenny A , Boles U
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Scar burden in atrial fibrillation (AF) can be overestimated due to many factors. Scar burden has prognostic value and substrates considered for ablation by some electrophysiologists. We compared left atrial (LA) scar voltage in AF to sinus rhythm (SR) using voltage histogram analysis (VHA) of those undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for persistent AF (PeAF). We believe this is the first study analysing LA scar location in SR and AF using VHA.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 120 anatomical segments (AS) and whole LA voltages (N= 10 patients, mean age 68 ± 7, 4 females) in SR and AF. Fast anatomical maps (FAM) were grouped into 6 AS in AF and SR: Anterior, Posterior, Roof, Floor, Septal and Lateral AS, which were analysed via VHA (Figure 1) in 10 voltage ranges between 0mV-0.5mV. Total LA area in each voltage aliquot was recorded in SR and AF, taking diseased LA as 0.2-0.5mV and dense LA scar as <0.2mV. The pulmonary veins, mitral annulus and trans-septal puncture sites were excluded from analyses. We included patients over age 18 with PeAF who had de novo PVI with no extra ablation lines, maps with >1000 voltage points in both rhythms and uniform procedure involving initial mapping in AF then remapping in SR after PVI. Statistical analyses conducted with IBM SPSS v.26.

Results

Total LA scar burden was greater in AF (Mean 142.76 mm², SD ± 138.78mm²) than SR (Mean 109mm², SD ± 107.8mm²), p= <0.0001, Table 1. Scar correlation in SR and AF had a good relationship, R = 0.416 (p= <0.001). Every 1mm² of scar identified during SR yielded a mean of 1.54mm² in AF, (p= <0.001).

Conclusions

AF was associated with higher scar burden in the Roof, Anterior, Lateral and Posterior AS. Dense LA scar (≤ 0.2mV) on the Posterior AS was significantly higher in AF, while in other AS was comparable to SR. Mapping substrate in AF, especially the posterior wall, may be misleading as scar burden may be overestimated when compared to SR. Table 1Voltage< 0.02 mV (mean area ± SD mm2)0.2-0.5mV (mean area mm2)RhythmSRAFp-valueSRAFp-valueEntire LA115.89 ± 113.61143.41 ± 144.230.02*105.78 ± 103.73144.00 ± 135.24<0.0001*Roof82.72 ± 117.3283.68 ± 113.560.95115 ± 77.14150.61 ± 93.170.01*Anterior131.8 ± 169.53126.5 ± 154.570.85158.53 ± 99.22220.87 ± 173.070.002*Lateral70.5 ± 80.0090.57 ± 117.990.3687.52 ± 66.82137.05 ± 104.990.0002*Septal80.99 ± 89.0380.99 ± 89.030.6899.123 ± 73.62115.37 ± 84.830.18Floor105.1 ± 134.91106.42 ± 148.670.96117.62 ± 85.41151.2 ± 110.070.052Posterior102.14 ± 157.47159.03 ± 194.650.02*138.27 ± 112.28234 ± 150.45<0.0001*LA scar distribution in SR and AF, *denotes significant results.Abstract Figure 1
Long-term outcomes of empirical extra-pulmonary vein linear ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hwang T , Kim M , Yu H , Kim T , Uhm J , Joung B , Lee M , Pak H
Published: May 2021

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by grants [HI18C0070] and [HI19C0114] from the Korea Health 21 R&D Project, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and a grant [NRF-2020R1A2B01001695] from the Basic Science Research Program run by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF).

Background

Although extra-pulmonary vein (PV) left atrial (LA) linear ablation has been performed during catheter ablation (CA) of persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF), the long-term efficacy and safety of this procedure have not yet been verified.

Purpose

We investigated whether an anterior line (AL) and posterior box ablation (POBA) in addition to circumferential PV isolation (CPVI) improves the rhythm without worsening the LA function in PeAF patients.

Methods

We retrospectively compared the additional AL + POBA and CPVI alone groups in 604 patients with PeAF who underwent regular rhythm follow-ups (16.9%; males 79.3%, 58.5 ± 10.7 years of age) after propensity score matching. The primary endpoint was AF recurrence after single procedures and secondary endpoints were the cardioversion rate, response to anti arrhythmic drugs, LA changes, and re-conduction rates of the de-novo ablation lesion set.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 45.2 ± 33.6 months, the clinical recurrence rate did not significantly differ between the two groups (log-rank p = 0.554) despite longer procedure times in the AL + POBA group (p < 0.001). Atrial tachycardia recurrences (p = 0.001) and the cardioversion rates after ablation (p < 0.001) were higher in the AL + POBA group than CPVI group. AL + POBA was associated with better rhythm outcomes in patients with large anterior LA volume indices (p for interaction 0.037) and low mean LAA(left atrial appendage) voltages (p for interaction 0.019). In repeat procedures, the LA pulse pressure elevation was significant after the AL + POBA.

Conclusion

In patients with PeAF, an AL + POBA in addition to the CPVI did not improve the rhythm outcomes nor influence the long-term safety, and lead to more extended procedures. Procedure outcomes OverallAL + POBACPVIp-value(n = 604)(n = 302)(n = 302)Procedure time, min190.8 ± 62.6226.9 ± 49.4154.6 ± 52.8<0.001Ablation time, sec5079 ± 19566420 ± 13723738± 1475<0.001Overall complications24 (4.0)13 (4.3)11 (3.6)0.835Early recurrence, n (%)277 (45.9)129 (42.7)148 (49.0)0.142Recurrence type AT, n (% in early recur)77 (27.8)51 (39.5)26 (17.6)<0.001Clinical recurrence within 1-year, n(%)116 (19.2)52 (17.2)65 (21.5)0.256Recurrence type AT, n (% in clinical recur)60 (23.1)46 (30.7)14 (12.7)0.001Cardioversion, n (% in total recur/ % overall)105 (40.4/17.4)74 (49.3/24.5)31 (28.1/10.3)<0.001POBA, posterior box ablation; AL, anterior line; CPVI, circumferential pulmonary vein isolation; AT, atrial tachycardia;Abstract Figure. Long term ablation outcome