bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can we boost screening for peripheral arterial disease?
Authors: Fendrik K , Endrei D , Biro K , Koltai K , Toth K , Kesmarky G
Published: October 2022

Despite the high prevalence of peripheral artery disease (PAD), the diagnosis is often delayed. The delayed diagnosis is due in part to comorbidities which can mask PAD symptoms, and in large part to the low use of conventional diagnostic tools. For PAD diagnostics, the guidelines recommend Doppler-based ankle-brachial index (ABI). The method is time consuming and requires skills. The toe pressure measurement which helps to eliminate the falsely elevated ankle pressures due to mediasclerosis is an almost neglected method for screening. In recent years, automatic, oscillometric four-limb blood pressure monitors have become available that provide data within minutes. We aimed to compare an automatic four limb blood pressure monitor with devices regularly used in our department.

Methods

Blood pressure was measured in 92 individuals (mean age 65±14 years) using a Doppler device (Hadeco) and a conventional manual sphygmomanometer on all four limbs, as well as an automatic, four-limb pressure monitor (BOSO ABI system-100 PWV) which also measured pulse wave velocity (PWV). Toe pressure was measured with a laser Doppler fluxmeter (Periflux 5000) and a photophlethysmography based toe pressure monitor (Systoe). Patients without known PAD but with at least one abnormal test result underwent a vascular imaging including ultrasound, CT or digital subtraction angiography. Among the 92 individuals there were patients with confirmed PAD, persons at high or very high cardiovascular risk, patients with non-ischaemic cardial diseases and healthy volunteers.

Results

ABI values of the posterior tibial artery at the corresponding side measured by Doppler and BOSO showed a strong correlation with each other (Pearson's r: 0.8 and 0.7), while the Doppler ABI values of the dorsal pedal artery showed a moderate or weak correlation with BOSO ABI values (r: 0.63 and 0.27). The toe pressure measured by laser Doppler and Systoe did not differ significantly. The ROC curve analysis of the Periflux TBI values supported 0.6 as a cut-off level (91.6% sensitivity, 84% specificity). Of the 52 individuals with high or very high cardiovascular risk, 15 with Doppler, 12 with BOSO and 29 with Periflux could be considered as abnormal, the vascular imaging confirmed PAD in 12 of them. Doppler ABI was abnormal in 96%, BOSO ABI in 69%, BOSO ABI combined with PWV in 92%, Periflux and Systoe toe brachial index (TBI) in 100–100% in 72 limbs with confirmed PAD. In control subjects, ABI, TBI, and PWV were normal; in subjects with high or very high risk, PWV was 58% abnormal, in confirmed PAD, 85%. All patients with abnormal PWV showed atherosclerotic lesions by the vascular imaging.

For detection of PAD, the measurement of TBI had the highest sensitivity. PAD screening of a large population may be possible using automatic four limb blood pressure monitors. By combining with additional features (e.g. PWV) the detection ratio can be improved to the level of the Doppler ABI method.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
The effect of distinct dietary interventions on proximal aortic stiffness; the DIRECT-PLUS randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tsaban G , Shalev A , Katz A , Yaskolka Meir A , Rinott E , Zelicha H , Kaplan A , Bluher M , Ceglarek U , Stumvoll M , Stampfer M J , Shai I
Published: October 2022

Background

Proximal aortic stiffness (PAS) reflects arterial aging and is strongly associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Plant-rich, specifically Mediterranean-style, diets are associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. The effect of dietary interventions on PAS remains unclear.

Methods

We randomized participants with abdominal-obesity/dyslipidemia to healthy-dietary-guidelines (HDG), Mediterranean, or green-Mediterranean diets combined with physical activity (PA). Both Mediterranean diets were similarly hypocaloric and included 28g/day walnuts. The green-Mediterranean group also consumed green tea (3–4 cups/day) and a Wolffia-globosa (Mankai) plant green-shake. PAS was estimated based on aortic-arch pulse-wave-velocity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline and after 18-months.

Results

Among 294 participants [age=51±10.6 years, body-mass-index 31.3±4.0 kg/m2, PAS = 6.1±2.7 m/sec, retention rate = 89.8%], 281 had valid PAS measurements. Higher PAS was mostly associated with aging, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and increased visceral adiposity (p<0.05 for all). After 18-months of intervention, all diet groups significantly reduced their PAS ([HDG: −4.8% (interquartile-range [IQR]: −22.3 to 8.7); Mediterranean: −7.3%, IQR (−20.8 to 11.9); green-Mediterranean: −14.0%, IQR (−27.0 to 2.4); p<0.05 for within-groups changes).

Green-Mediterranean dieters had significantly greater PAS reduction than HDG dieters (p=0.007), also after controlling for age, sex, baseline-PAS, and Δweight. Further adjustment to baseline dyslipidemia, diabetes, and hypertension also revealed significant differences in PAS reduction between green-Mediterranean and Mediterranean groups (p=0.027). Specifically, greater green tea consumption was associated with greater PAS regression (p=0.04). ΔPAS was significantly associated with improvements in Δlow-density-lipoprotein cholesterol and Δtotal-cholesterol (p<0.05, multivariable models). All lifestyle intervention showed aortic age regression as compared to the expected (1.8±0.14 years vs.: HDG: −2.9±7.5 years; MED: −4.1±7.4 years; green-MED:-4.9±8.0 years; p<0.001).

Conclusions

Higher PAS is strongly related to aging and is associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Lifestyle intervention promotes PAS reduction. Green-Mediterranean diet may be associated with more remarkable aortic rejuvenation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation); the Israel Ministry of Health
A deep-learning approach for scar detection in early contrast-enhanced cardiac computed tomography images
Authors: Penso M , Babbaro M , Moccia S , Baggiano A , Pepi M , Andreini D , Caiani E G , Pontone G
Published: October 2022

Background/Introduction

Diagnosis of myocardial fibrosis has a relevant prognostic and therapeutic role. Scar-tissue analysis is commonly performed with late gadolinium contrast-enhanced (CE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). However, CMR might be contraindicated or unavailable. Coronary computed tomography (CCT), which is the technique of choice for many routine assessments, is emerging as an alternative to CMR.

Purpose

The objective of this study is to evaluate whether artificial intelligence (AI) could allow identification of myocardial fibrosis from routine early CE-CCT images.

Methods

Fifty consecutive patients with left ventricular dysfunction (LVD), who underwent both CE-CMR and (early and late) CE-CCT were retrospectively selected. According to the late enhancement CMR patterns, patients were classified as with ischemic (n=15, 30%) or non-ischemic (n=25, 70%) LVD.

Scar regions were manually traced on late CE-CCT using CE-CMR as ground-truth.

On early CE-CCT images, the myocardial sectors were extracted according to AHA 16-segment model and labeled as with scar or not based on the late CE-CCT manual tracing.

A deep-learning model was developed to classify each sector (Picture 1).

Results

Of the initial 44187 sectors computed out of the 8285 slices available from the early CE-CCT images, 4594 sectors (10%) presented scar.

The CNN approach on the early CE-CCT images yielded a classification accuracy for all sectors of 71% (95% confidence interval (CI): 63%-79%) obtained through 5-fold cross validation.

The mean sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for the testing fold resulted in 73% (95% CI: 66%-79%), 56% (95% CI: 48%-65%) and 85% (95% CI: 82%- 88%), respectively. The mean AUC across the five folds was 76% (95% CI: 72%-81%).

In a per-segment analysis of the 16-segment AHA model the bull's eye segmental comparison of CE-CMR and respective early CE-CCT findings an 91% agreement was achieved (Picture 2).

Conclusions

AI can detect both ischemic and non-ischemic myocardial fibrosis from routine noninvasive coronary scans, without additional contrast-agent administration or radiational dose, thus assisting diagnosis and management of patients with LV dysfunction and coronary artery disease.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Peripheral artery disease is associated with worse outcomes after TAVR
Authors: Gilchrist I , Kalogeropoulos A , Parikh P , Alkhalil A , Pyo R
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is common in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and presents unique challenges for TAVR arterial access. The impact of TAVR on limb ischemic events in PAD patients undergoing TAVR is unknown.

Purpose

Evaluate patients undergoing TAVR with and without PAD for outcomes involving limb ischemic and systemic cardiovascular events.

Methods

Patients undergoing TAVR were identified in the TriNetX database. The database provides access to electronic medical records (diagnoses and procedures) from approximately 86.5 million patients from 58 healthcare organizations. Patients were stratified by history of PAD. After propensity score matching, 30 day limb ischemic outcomes (peripheral revascularization, acute limb ischemia (ALI), lower extremity amputation), major adverse cardiac events (MACE), and mortality were compared between groups. 1 year outcomes for MACE and mortality were also compared. Event rates calculated using 1 year Kaplan-Meier estimator.

Results

We identified 22,405 patients undergoing TAVR. Of these patients 21.3% had diagnosed PAD. Patients with PAD had significantly increased 30 day peripheral revascularization (2.4% v. 1.2%; adjusted OR (aOR) 2.02, 95% CI 1.47–2.80) and ALI (2.27% v. 0.89%; aOR 2.59 95% CI 1.80–3.70) with a similar rate of amputation (Figure 1). 30 day MACE (13.2% vs. 11.4%; aOR 1.18 95% CI 1.04–1.33) and mortality (2.46% vs. 1.53%; aOR 1.63 1.21–2.19) were also significantly increased with continued significance at 1 year follow up (MACE: 25.8% v. 21.6%; aOR 1.26 95% CI1.15–1.39; Mortality: 9.4% vs. 7.3%; aOR 1.32 95% CI 1.14–1.52) (Figure 2).

Conclusions

In our study, TAVR in PAD patients was associated with increased limb ischemic events as well as increased MACE and mortality at 30 days and 1 year follow up.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Total hospitalizations after peripheral arterial revascularization in the VOYAGER trial
Authors: Szarek M , Debus E S , Nehler M R , Anand S S , Patel M R , Haskell L P , Muehlhofer E S , Berkowitz S D , Bauersachs R M , Bonaca M P
Published: October 2022

Background

In the VOYAGER PAD trial, rivaroxaban reduced first and total (first and subsequent) occurrences of major adverse limb and cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) after lower extremity revascularization (LER), but also increased incident bleeding.

Purpose

Assessment of disease burden by the onset of a particular set of events does not necessarily capture all consequences of a disease process that negatively impact patients' quality of life, motivating the adoption of more patient-centered outcomes. The present analysis of VOYAGER PAD describes the total incidence and duration of hospitalizations reported during the study as a broader measure of total disease burden and net benefit of rivaroxaban therapy.

Methods

Patients were randomized 1:1 to rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily plus aspirin (n=3286) or aspirin alone (n=3278). Investigators documented the primary reason and duration for each hospitalization occurring after randomization. Total hospitalization rates were estimated by events per 100 patient-years. Treatment group comparisons on total hospitalizations as a time-to-event outcome were by marginal proportional hazards models with death as a competing terminal event, while days in hospital were compared by zero-inflated Poisson regression. All analyses were intention-to-treat.

Results

A total of 7156 hospitalizations (3265 first, 3891 subsequent) occurred during a median 2.5 years of follow-up, with nearly 40% being hospitalizations for PAD and a small fraction attributed to bleeding events (Figure 1). The rivaroxaban rate was lower for PAD hospitalizations and higher for bleeding event hospitalizations, with more hospitalizations prevented than caused (Table 1). Mean days in hospital among patients hospitalized at least once was significantly lower in the rivaroxaban group for any reason, for PAD, and for bleeding, so that total days in hospital was numerically lower for rivaroxaban.

Conclusion

Patients with PAD undergoing LER have a high rate of subsequent hospitalizations after an index procedure, driven by re-hospitalizations for PAD. Rivaroxaban decreased both the incidence and duration of PAD hospitalizations. While rivaroxaban increased incident hospitalizations due to bleeding, the mean durations of these hospitalizations were lower relative to placebo, leading to fewer total days in hospital for bleeding (1252 vs. 1531 total days). These findings may be useful for clinicians and patients weighing the risks and benefits of rivaroxaban in PAD after revascularization.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): BayerJanssen
Patients with carotid intraplaque hemorrhage have higher incidence of cerebral microbleeds
Authors: Nardi V , Benson J , Saba L , Bois M , Meyer F , Lanzino G , Lilach L , Lerman A
Published: October 2022

Background

Carotid intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) is considered a strong marker of histologically defined plaque vulnerability leading to cerebrovascular ischemic events. Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) represent hemorrhage-prone small vessel disease and they are a common finding on brain MRI in patients with cerebrovascular disease. However, the potential mechanism and the risk for CMBs are not clear. The characteristics of carotid lesions have been considered relevant in the relationship between carotid artery atherosclerosis and the presence of CMBs. The potential association between carotid IPH histologically defined and CMBs has not been investigated yet.

Purpose

We have previously reported the prevalence of IPH in patients with non-obstructive carotid disease in patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy (CEA). In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the presence and the extent of carotid IPH are related to the existence of CMBs. We hypothesized that patients with carotid IPH would have a higher risk of CMBs.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 101 consecutive patients undergoing CEA with symptomatic (including ischemic stroke, TIA, and amaurosis fugax) or asymptomatic ipsilateral carotid artery disease. Carotid plaque specimens were collected at CEA from all the patients and stained with Movat Pentachrome to identify the presence and the extent (%) of IPH. Neck CTA was obtained to measure the degree of carotid stenosis. Brain MRI was pre-surgically performed and CMBs were studied using T2*-weighted gradient-recalled echo (GRE) or susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) sequence. The CMBs were counted and localized. Clinical and biochemical data, comorbidities, and medications were recorded. The association between carotid IPH and CMBs was examined adjusted for other risk factors.

Results

The presence of carotid IPH was in 57 (56.4%) patients. CMBs were more observed in patients with carotid IPH compared to those without IPH [19 (33.3%) vs 5 (11.4%); p=0.010]. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated an association between the extent of IPH in the carotid atheroma and the presence of CMBs [OR 1.051 (95% CI 1.012–1.090); p=0.009]. Moreover, the carotid IPH extent was associated with the number of CMBs (p=0.004). In patients with CMBs, the median degree of ipsilateral carotid stenosis was 40% (35–65%) and it was 70% (50–80%) in those without CMBs, with a significant difference between the two groups (p=0.049).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing CEA, the histologically defined presence of carotid IPH and its extent are associated with CMBs on brain MR imaging. CMBs may be a potential mechanism for cerebrovascular events in patients with carotid atherosclerotic IPH and they may be an imaging marker that can distinguish the severity of the carotid artery disease.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): Mayo Clinic Foundation
Comparison of the SYNTAX score 2020 based on Coronary Artery Computed Tomography (CCTA) with Invasive Coronary Angiography (ICA)
Authors: Masuda S , Kageyama S , Kotoku N , Ninomiya K , Schneider U , Doenst T , Tanaka K , Mey J D , Lameir M , Mushtaq S , Bartorelli A , Pompilio G , Andreini D , Onuma Y , Serruys P W
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The SYNTAX III REVOLUTION trial demonstrated that clinical decision-making between coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) based on coronary artery computed tomography (CCTA) and predicting four years mortality according to the SYNTAX score II had a high agreement with the treatment decision derived from invasive coronary angiography (ICA). The agreement of the novel SYNTAX score 2020 (SS-2020) based on CCTA and ICA has not yet been evaluated in a prospective fashion.

Methods

This study included 54 consecutive patients in the ongoing FASTTRACK CABG trial that investigates decision making, planning and procedural CABG guidance based solely on CCTA and FFRct. All the patients underwent CCTA and ICA, and SS-2020 was calculated based on the results of anatomical SYNTAX score derived from either CCTA or ICA, and the respective scores were compared by using paired t-test.

Results

The mean age was 67.3±9.7, and 48 were men (88.9%). Anatomical SYNTAX score derived from CCTA was assessed in the 54 cases (analysability 100%). Anatomical SYNTAX scores based on CCTA and ICA were 34.3±9.3, and 35.5±11.3, respectively (P=0.480). As shown in the table predicted 5 years major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) following either PCI or CABG, as well as predicted 10 years mortality following CABG differed significantly. However the absolute risk differences (ARD) in 5 years MACCE and 10 years mortality following either PCI or CABG, were comparable.

Conclusions

High agreements were confirmed in the calculations of anatomical SYNTAX scores with CCTA and ICA. Despite significant differences in predicted MACCE rates at 5 years and mortalities at 10 years, the ARD in MACCE rates and mortality were comparable. In terms of treatment decision-making, SS-2020 calculations based on CCTA is a non-invasive predictive tool comparable to the one based on ICA.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Stent-retriever induces more endothelial damage than direct aspiration in endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Taha A , Bobi J , Hund H , Van Noorden K , Stam M , Raben J D , Van Doormaal P J , Duncker D J , Van Der Lugt A , Van Es A C G M , Dippel D W J , Van Beusekom H M M
Published: October 2022

Background

Mechanical arterial recanalization is increasingly used to treat acute ischemic stroke. Known to inflict vascular injury, it might affect pro-thrombotic character and healing patterns. Stent-retriever thrombectomy (SR) and direct aspiration (DA) are both used for acute recanalization and not only lead to endothelial denudation, but also to platelet activation and local formation of microthrombi, potentially adding to the risk of distal embolization.

Purpose

We aimed to quantify and characterize endovascular damage, microthrombus formation, and vascular healing following SR and DA in a swine model of arterial thrombo-embolic occlusion.

Methods

Aged autologous thrombi, created under flow, were used to occlude swine extracranial arteries for two hours to mimic a thrombo-embolic occlusion. Arteries were randomized to SR, DA, or control (C). Injury was assessed acutely (SR n=8; DA n=7; C n=4), and at 3 days follow-up (SR n=8; DA n=7; C n=4) using Evans Blue (EB) dye-exclusion-testing to quantify injury, expressed as %EB-area in the treated area. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize vascular injury and presence of microthrombi (<100 μm). Data are given as mean±SD or median (min-max).

Results

Regression analysis for EB-area (ANOVA p<0.001; Adj. R2=0.5) showed that SR induced more damage than DA (p=0.001). Both showed partial healing at 3 days (p<0.01) (Table 1). Only for DA, did more attempts lead to an increased EB-area (p=0.016), as for SR one attempt already resulted in almost complete denudation. For both SR and DA, SEM of acute injury showed endothelial denudation, microthrombi, and adhesion of leukocytes and activated platelets (Fig. 1A–C). At three days, SEM showed partial re-endothelialization with increased surface folds as a sign of endothelial activation (Fig. 1D). Microthrombi/cm2 decreased significantly from 7 (2–17) acutely to 1 (0–4) at 3 days (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Stent-retrievers induce more endothelial damage than direct aspiration. Both treatments yield microthrombi, platelet activation and leukocyte adhesion. After three days, the endothelium is significantly, but only partially recovered.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): We acknowledge the support of the Netherlands Cardiovascular Research Initiative which is supported by the Dutch Heart Foundation (CVON2015-01: CONTRAST), the support of the Brain Foundation Netherlands (HA2015.01.06), and the support of Health∼Holland, Top Sector Life Sciences & Health (LSHM17016), Stryker, Medtronic and Cerenovus. The collaboration project is additionally financed by the Ministry of Economic Affairs by means of the PPP Allowance made available by the Top Sector Life Sciences & Health to stimulate public-private partnerships.
Validity of CHA2DS2-VASc score in patients with malignancies
Authors: Mohamad Alahmad M , Goyal A , Mohammed M
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Anticoagulation for patients with atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) after risk stratification based on CHA2DS2-VASc score (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age group, Diabetes Mellitus, prior stroke, transient ischemic attack or thromboembolism, prior heart attack, peripheral artery disease or aortic plaque and patient's gender) has been the gold standard practice to prevent cerebrovascular accidents (CVA).

Purpose

Since patients with malignancies are at increased risk of thrombophilia, we tried to study if cancer patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for CVA beyond what should be expected based on their comorbidities.

Methods

We used the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) database for the years 2016–2019. First, we extracted all cases with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation/flutter. Exclusion criteria included patients younger than 18-year-old. We studied the comorbidities and calculated CHA2DS2-VASc score. Then, we compared the risk for admission with an acute CVA in patients with and without any diagnosis of malignancies (solid cancer, leukemia, lymphoma or metastatic disease). Patients with carcinoma in situ were considered non-cancer patients. Corrected logistic regression and Chi-square tests using survey procedures in SAS 8.1 were applied to accommodate for complex sampling (Rao-Scott design).

Results

We identified 1,748,619 weighted admissions with AF equally distributed across the years. 5% were patients with malignancies. The mean age was 74-year-old for cancer patients and 71-year-old for non-cancer patients with quite equal gender distribution (43–49% were female). Patients with a diagnosis of cancer has high inpatient mortality (13%). Every additional point in CHA2DS2-VASc score was associated with increased odds of admission with CVA. Having a diagnosis of cancer was not associated with increased odds of admission with CVA (odd ratio for 95% confidence interval 1.0 [0.95–1.1]). Patients with history of VTE (assuming they are on anticoagulation) or who are on chronic anticoagulation have lower risk of admission with acute CVA if they have AF.

Conclusions

Although malignancies is associated with hypercoagulable status including higher risk for stroke, deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, our cross-sectional study indicates that CHA2DS2-VASc score is still a reliable tool for risk stratification in patients with atrial fibrillation. More longitudinal studies are needed.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Left ventricular longitudinal contraction impacts the left atrial appendage function and the occurrence of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Porca A , Lazar R D , Jelnean M , Zehan I G , Tentea C P , Coseriu G , Eotvos C A , Andrei M G , Givan I , Pomian A , Chiorescu R , Rosianu H , Serban A , Pop S , Blendea D
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Previous research has revealed a relationship between left ventricular (LV) function and incidence of stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF) but the mechanism remains unknown.

Purpose

Given that the left atrial appendage (LAA) is located in the vicinity of the LV base we hypothesized that the LV longitudinal contraction has an impact on the LAA function, LAA thrombus (LAAT) formation, and occurrence of ischemic stroke (Figure 1A). The aim of this study was to investigate this phenomenon using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).

Material and methods

We included in our study 105 consecutive patients (age 59±11; 55 men) undergoing TEE-guided cardioversion for AF. LV longitudinal function was assessed using the mitral annulus plane systolic excursion (MAPSE). LAA function was evaluated using the LAA emptying velocity (LAAEV) and LAA ejection fraction (LAAEF) (Figure 1B). The presence LAAT and spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) were evaluated as well.

Results

Our patients had a median CHADS2vasc score = 3 (IQR 2–4), LVEF=50±11%, and MAPSE=7.3±1.7mm. MAPSE showed a positive significant correlation with both LAAEV (r=0.34; p<0.01) and LAAEF (r=0.23; p<0.05) (Figure 2). LVEF correlated significantly with LAAEV (r=0.42, p<0.01), and LAA area (r=−0.34; p<0.05), respectively. Additionally, patients who exhibited SEC had significantly lower LAAEF as well as LAAEV when compared with patients without SEC: 31±12% vs 38±12% P=0.022 and 35±18cm/s vs 49±21cm/s P=0.005. Patients who displayed both SEC and LAAT had wider LAA neck when compared to the rest of the group (21.46±3.96mm vs. 18.23±3.78mm; P=0.021). Logistic regression analysis revealed that MAPSE independently predicted the occurrence of ischemic stroke both in univariate and multivariate models that also included the CHADSvasc2 score.

Conclusions

LV longitudinal contraction appears to influence LAA function. This relationship could potentially have an impact on occurrence of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Differences in Left atrial stain, endothelial glycocalyx, arterial elasticity and myocardial efficiency between ESUS, lacunar and atherosclerotic type of stroke
Authors: Ikonomidis I , Katogiannis K , Frogoudaki A , Vrettou A R , Pavlidis G , Thymis J , Kostelli G , Kountouri A , Korakas E , Michalopoulou A , Koliou G A , Stamoulis K , Lambadiari V , Tsivgoulis G
Published: October 2022

Background and aims

Patients with stroke are at high risk to develop cardiovascular complications. We assessed endothelial glycocalyx, aortic elastic properties, left atrial and ventricular function in patients with lacunar, atherosclerotic and stroke of undetermined source (ESUS).

Patients and methods

In 111 patients (age 57,1±10.6) with acute cerebral stroke (37 lacunar, 36 atherosclerotic and 38 ESUS) and 20 controls with similar risk factors, we measured: (1) perfused boundary region (PBR) of the sublingual arterial microvessels (range 5–25 μm), a marker inversely related with glycocalyx thickness, (2) pulse wave velocity (PWV), central systolic blood pressure (cSBP), and augmentation index (AIx), (3) Left atrial (LA) strain using speckle-tracking imaging, (4) left ventricular global longitudinal strain and (5) left ventricular myocardial work index (GWI), constructive work (GCW), wasted work (GWW) and work efficiency (GWE).

Results

Compared with controls, patients with stroke had higher PWV (11.74±3.18 vs 9.61±1.28 m/sec, p=0.003), PBR (2.16±0.28 vs 1.94±0.20, p=0.029) and central SBP (142±25 vs 121±17 mmHg, p=0.025), while ventricular (−18.31±3.21 vs −20.89±2.45%, p=0.001) and atrial deformation (28.59±6.99 vs 37.05±5.08%, p<0.001) were impaired in patients with stroke (p<0.05). GWI and GCW were similar between two groups and GWW and GWE were worse in patients with stroke (106.98±81.52 vs 68.92±36.52 mmHg%, p=0.022, 94.00±4.51 vs 96.46±1.75%, p=0.007, respectively).

LA reservoir strain and contraction strain were more impaired in patients with thromboembolic strain compared to other 2 stroke types (ESUS 30.55±6.02%, −15.57±3.57%, Lacunar 28.19±6.92%, −13.76±3,74%, atherosclerotic 24.73±7.86%, −12.65±2,53%, p<0.05).

Regarding endothelial glycocalyx, PBR5–25 was similar between all stroke types (ESUS 2.12±0.21 μm, LACUNAR 2.23±0.32 μm, ATHEROSCLEROTIC 2.11±0.30 μm, p>0.05).

PWV was significantly higher in patients with atherosclerotic stroke (13.50±3.83 m/sec, p=0.007), while in patients with lacunar (11.31±3.01 m/sec) and in ESUS patients it was mildly elevated (11.66±2.63 m/sec).

Despite there was no significant difference in GWI, GCW and GWW between patients with different types of stroke, GWE was higher in patients with ESUS (95.41±2.32%) than in patients with lacunar 92.86±6.13%) and atherothrombotic stoke (92.27±6.21%) (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with stroke have impaired atrial strain, endothelial glycocalyx and arterial elasticity, compared with controls. Arterial stiffness and LA deformation are more affected in atherosclerotic stroke, while GWE is preserved in ESUS patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Clinical relevance of impaired physiological assessment after percutaneous coronary intervention: a meta-analysis
Authors: Griffioen A M , Van Den Oord S C H , Teerenstra S , Damman P , Van Royen N , Van Geuns R J M
Published: October 2022

Background

Despite optimal angiographic result of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), residual disease at the site of the culprit lesion can lead to Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) at follow-up [1]. Post-PCI physiological assessment can identify residual stenosis.

Purpose

The aim of this meta-analysis is to investigate data of studies with minimum follow-up of 6 months examining post-PCI physiological assessment in relation with long-term outcomes.

Methods

Studies were included in the meta-analysis after performing systematic search of the literature on 10th of January 2022. The primary endpoint was the incidence of MACE, Vessel-Orientated Cardiac Events (VOCE) or Target Vessel Failure (TVF). Secondary endpoints included the incidence of death, myocardial infarction (MI) and Target Vessel Revascularization (TVR).

Results

Low post-PCI FFR, reported in seven studies [2–8], including 4017 patients, was associated with an increased rate of the primary endpoint (HR 2.06; 95%-CI 1.37–3.08). One study reported about impaired post-PCI (instantaneous wave-free ratio) iFR in relation with MACE, showing a significant association (HR 3.38; 95%-CI 0.99–11.6) [9]. Low post-PCI QFR, reported in three studies [10–12], including 1181 patients, was associated with increased rate of VOCE (HR 3.02; 95%-CI 2.13–4.30). Combining data of all modalities, impaired physiological assessment showed an increased rate of the primary endpoint (HR 2.32; 95%-CI 1.71–3.16) and secondary endpoints including death (HR 1.35; 95%-CI 1.01–1.82), MI (HR 2.50; 95%-CI 1.36–4.58) and TVR (HR 2.88; 95%-CI 1.91–4.35).

Conclusions

Impaired post-PCI physiological assessment is associated with an increase in adverse cardiac events and individual endpoints including death, MI and TVR. Prospective studies are awaited whether physiology-based optimization of PCI results in better clinical outcome.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Concordant low and discordant fractional flow reserve and instantaneous wave-free ratio measurements are associated with reduced myocardial perfusion
Authors: De Winter R W , Van Diemen P A , Schumacher S P , Jukema R A , Somsen Y B O , Bom M J , Everaars H , Van Rossum A C , Verouden N J , Raijmakers P G , Nap A , Driessen R S , Danad I , Knaapen P
Published: October 2022

Background

In patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography with functional lesion assessment, both fractional flow reserve (FFR) and instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR) measurements can be used to guide coronary revascularization decision-making. The hemodynamic significance of lesions with discordant FFR and iFR measurements is debated.

Purpose

This study compared quantitative myocardial perfusion indices as assessed by [15O]H2O positron emission tomography (PET) perfusion imaging in vessels with concordant high, discordant and concordant low FFR/iFR measurements

Methods

This post-hoc analysis of the PACIFIC I and II studies included 198 patients suspected of obstructive coronary artery disease who had undergone [15O]H2O PET imaging and subsequent FFR/iFR interrogation in 468 vessels. Resting myocardial blood flow (MBF), hyperemic MBF and coronary flow reserve (CFR) were compared between 4 vessel subgroups: FFR+/iFR+ (n=79), FFR−/iFR+ (n=22), FFR+/iFR− (n=22) and FFR−/iFR− (n=345).

Results

Discordant FFR/iFR indices were found in 44 (9%) vessels. Hyperemic MBF was significantly lower for vessels with FFR+/iFR+ (2.09±0.67 mL min–1 g–1), FFR−/iFR+ (2.41±0.80 mL min–1 g–1) and FFR+/iFR− (2.40±0.69 mL min–1 g–1) compared to FFR−/iFR− vessels (2.91±0.84 mL min–1 g–1) (p<0.01, p=0.03 and p<0.01, respectively). Hyperemic MBF did not differ between vessels with FFR+/iFR+ compared to FFR−/iFR+ (p=0.38) and FFR+/iFR− (p=0.35) vessels. In addition, resting MBF was lower and CFR did not differ in the FFR+/iFR− versus the FFR−/iFR− group (resting MBF: 0.80±0.16 mL min–1 g–1 vs. 0.90±0.24 mL min–1 g–1, p=0.03 and CFR: 3.05±0.84 vs. 3.35±1.07, p=0.56). Finally, CFR was similar in FFR+/iFR+ and FFR−/iFR+ vessels (2.37±0.76 vs. 2.64±0.84, p=0.92).

Conclusions

We found lower baseline flow and similar flow reserve in FFR+/iFR− compared to FFR−/iFR− vessels. Importantly, [15O]H2O PET imaging demonstrated reduced hyperemic MBF in vessels with concordant low and discordant FFR and iFR measurements.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Prognostic value of FFRCT in patients with stable chest pain – a 3-year follow-up of the ADVANCE-DK registry
Authors: Madsen K T , Noergaard B L , Oevrehus K A , Parner E , Jensen J M , Grove E L , Fairbairn T A , Nieman K , Patel M , Rogers C , Mickley H , Rohold A , Boetker H E , Leipsic J , Sand N P R
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The short-term safety of using coronary CT angiography (CTA) derived fractional flow reserve (FFRCT) to guide downstream testing after CTA is well documented. Whether the prognostic information provided by FFRCT can be extended to sustained follow-up and to patients with a high degree of coronary artery calcification (CAC) is unknown.

Purpose

To evaluate the association between FFRCT and clinical outcomes in new onset stable symptomatic patients with coronary stenosis up to 3 years after CTA index testing.

Methods

Multicenter 3-year follow-up study of 900 patients from the Assessing Diagnostic Value of Non-invasive FFRCT in Coronary Care (ADVANCE) registry at three Danish sites, the “ADVANCE-DK Registry”. All patients had at least one ≥30% coronary stenosis by CTA and underwent subsequent core laboratory FFRCT analysis by HeartFlow. The criterium for an abnormal FFRCT test result was an FFRCT value ≤0.80 (2 cm distal to stenosis). High CAC was defined as a CAC score ≥400. The primary endpoint (PE) was a composite of all-cause death and spontaneous myocardial infarction (MI). The secondary endpoint (SE) was a composite of cardiovascular (CV) death and spontaneous MI. Events were adjudicated by an independent clinical committee.

Results

Patient characteristics are given in Table 1. Coronary stenosis ≥50% was present in 750 (83%) patients. In total 36 patients suffered a PE (all-cause death, n=24; MI, n=12) and 22 an SE (CV death, n=10; MI, n=12). An abnormal vs a normal FFRCT test result was associated with an increased risk of the PE and of the SE both overall and in patients with high CAC; PE (all), 6.6% vs 2.1%, relative risk (RR): 3.1; 95% CI: 1.6–6.3, p<0.001, SE (all), 5.0% vs 0.6%, RR: 8.7; 95% CI: non assessable, p<0.001, PE (high CAC), 9.0% vs 2.2%, RR: 4.1; 85% CI: 1.4–11.8, p=0.001, and SE (high CAC), 6.6% vs 0.5%, RR: 12.0; 95% CI: non assessable, p=0.01, respectively, Figure 1. The observed increased risk in patients with an abnormal vs a normal FFRCT test result persisted after adjustment for degree of stenosis by CCTA (< / ≥50%) and amount of CAC (< / ≥400): PE, adjusted RR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.2–5.2, p=0.02, and SE, adjusted RR: 8.0; 95% CI: 2.1–30.2, p=0.002.

Conclusion

Patients with stable chest pain, stenosis by CTA and a normal FFRCT test result have a low risk of adverse outcomes during 3 years of follow-up. An abnormal FFRCT identifies patients at increased risk of death or spontaneous MI. These associations are consistent in patients with high levels of CAC.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Prognostic role of functional syntax score based on quantitative flow ratio
Authors: Gkini K P , Terentes-Printzios D , Oikonomou D , Aznaouridis K , Dima I , Gardikioti V , Tsioufis K , Vlachopoulos C
Published: October 2022

Background/Introduction

The quantitative flow ratio (QFR) based functional Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score (FSSQFR) takes into consideration not only the anatomy but also the physiology of coronary arteries.

Purpose

To investigate the prognostic value of the FSSQFR.

Methods

We performed an offline QFR analysis in consecutive patients who underwent coronary angiography in a single center. FSSQFR was counted by summing the individual scores only in ischemia-producing lesions (vessel QFR ≤0.8). Patients were divided into low-, intermediate- and high risk according to SS and FSS with the same cutoff. The primary endpoint was the estimation of the predictive value of FSSQFR for the composite outcome of death, myocardial infarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, stroke, hospitalization for heart failure, and life-threatening arrhythmias.

Results

410 patients were included in this study. Baseline characteristics of the population displayed in Table 1. FSSQFR and SS were estimated for all patients. According to SS, 26.6% of patients were high risk, 36.6% were intermediate risk and 36.8% were low cardiovascular risk. After calculating FSSQFR, risk stratification changed in 10% of the study population, more specifically 21.2%, 36.6%, and 42.2% of patients were classified as high-, intermediate- and low-risk respectively. 5% (n=20) of the patients for whom coronary artery bypass grafting would be recommended according to SS, converted in favor of percutaneous coronary intervention after FSSQFR calculation. After a median 30.2 (25.7–33.7) months follow-up period multivariate regression analysis showed FSSQFR was an independent predictor of primary endpoint after adjustment for age, gender, BMI, and hypertension (adjusted OR: 1.03 [95% CI, 1.01–1.06]; P=0.012). The Kaplan-Meier estimate for the primary endpoint was 15%, 18.7%, and 32.2% in the low, intermediate, and high FSSQFR group, respectively (log-rank P=0.001; Figure 1A) and cardiac death was 2.3%, 8.7%, and 12.6% in the low, intermediate, and high FSSQFR group, respectively (log-rank P=0.003; Figure 1B).

Conclusions

In our study, FSSQFR showed discordance with classical anatomical SS leading to risk re-stratification of patients with coronary disease and possible alternative treatment strategy and also was found to be an independent predictor of higher cardiovascular adverse events.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Assessment of absolute coronary flow and microvascular resistance reserve in patients with severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Gallinoro E , Paolisso P , Vanderheyden M , Esposito G , Bertolone D T , Mileva N , Bermpeis K , Belmonte M , De Colle C , Candreva A , Penicka M , Collet C , Sonck J , De Bruyne B , Barbato E
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The development of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) is accompanied by adaptive coronary flow regulation, both in epicardial and microvascular compartment, which ultimately lead to a chronic ischemic insult even in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease. Intracoronary continuous thermodilution of saline through a dedicated infusion catheter is a novel tool that allows to measure absolute coronary flow and microvascular resistance at rest and during hyperemia and to calculate both coronary flow reserve (CFR) and Microvascular Resistance Reserve (MRR)

Purpose

We aimed to assess absolute coronary flow, microvascular resistance, CFR and MRR in patients with AS, by continuous intracoronary thermodilution, comparing these hemodynamic findings with a propensity-score matched contemporary cohort of patients without AS.

Methods

Absolute coronary blood flow and microvascular resistance were measured by continuous thermodilution in 29 patients with AS and compared to 15 controls matched for age, gender, diabetes mellitus and functional severity of epicardial coronary lesions. Myocardial work, total myocardial mass and LAD-specific mass were quantified by echocardiography and cardiac-CT.

Results

Patients with AS presented a significantly positive LV remodeling with lower global longitudinal strain and higher global work index compared to controls (p<0.02). Total LV myocardial mass and LAD-specific myocardial mass were significantly higher in patients with AS. Compared to matched controls, absolute resting flow in the LAD was significantly higher in the AS cohort (86 [66–107] ml/min vs 68 [52–75] ml/min, p=0.036), resulting, in lower CFR (2.30±0.69 vs 2.89±0.77, p=0.005) and MRR (2.73±0.74 vs 3.53±0.95, p=0.005) in the AS cohort compared to controls (Figure 1). No differences were found in hyperemic flow and resting and hyperemic resistances. Interestingly, hyperemic myocardial perfusion (calculated as the ratio between the absolute coronary flow in the LAD and the mass subtended by the vessel, expressed in mL/min/g), but not resting, was significantly lower in the AS group (1.9 [1.5–2.5] ml/min/g vs 2.3 [2–3.1] ml/min/g p=0.036).

Conclusions

In patients with severe aortic stenosis and non-obstructive coronary artery disease, with the progression of LVH, the compensatory mechanism of increased resting flow maintains an adequate perfusion at rest, but not during hyperemia (Figure 2). As consequence, both CFR and MRR are significantly impaired.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Thermodilution-derived coronary absolute flow and resistance in patients with different INOCA endotypes
Authors: Smits P M , Laforgia P L , Sijbring M , Den Ruijter H M , Smits P C , Paradies V
Published: October 2022

Background

Thermodilution-derived measurement of absolute coronary flow and resistance has been recently validated by using a dedicated microcatheter and a pressure-temperature guidewire. Coronary absolute flow (AbsF) and derived absolute resistance (AbsR) can give precious information about the microcirculation in patients with ischemia and non-obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA). The correlation with different INOCA endotypes has been so far poorly investigated.

Methods

108 INOCA patients underwent a complete evaluation of underwent coronary function testing, including acetylcholine (ACH) provocation testing, adenosine testing (CFR/IMR) and functional assessment of the left anterior descending artery using thermodilution-derived measurement of AbsF and AbsR.

Results

Among 108 INOCA patients, 64% showed coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) with positive ACH reaction (ACH+) and/or abnormal CFR/IMR (CFR/IMR+), of whom 38% presenting with an isolated structural component (CFR/IMR+) and 62% with an isolated vasospastic component (ACH+).

Among ACH+ patients, epicardial vasospastic angina was detected in 28.2% of the patients.

AbsF was found significantly lower in ACH+ patients than in ACH− patients (0.174±0.09 vs 0.2019±0.09, p=0.03). Similarly, a trend of higher AbsR values was found in ACH+ patients as compared to ACH− (612.5±226.5 vs 524.5±171.2, p=0.07, Fig. 1A). AbsF was found significantly lower in patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) than in patients without either vasospastic or structural component of CMD (0.172±0.06 vs 0.202±0.09, p=0.05) and AbsR showed a trend towards higher values in patients with CMD than patients without CMD. (609.3±208.8 vs 557.7±193.1, p=0.08, Fig. 1B) AbsF and AbsR did not differ in patients with and without abnormal adenosine testing only: AbsF (0.176±0.06 vs 0.197±0.09, p=0.31) and AbsR 589.8±183.0 vs 565.2±190.2, p=0.27). A modest correlation was found between AbsQ and IMR (r: −0.2: p: 0.05, Fig. 2).

Conclusion

Coronary vasomotor dysfunction is highly prevalent in INOCA patients and a complete coronary function evaluation, including provocative test should be performed. Continuous thermodilution is safe and easily implemented in INOCA patients and provide new insights in the assessment of INOCA endotypes with high reproducibility. The exact diagnostic and prognostic value of these measurements, and their optimal cutoff, should be assessed in future studies.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.