bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global longitudinal strain as a predictor of cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with ischemic heart disease and heart failure with preserved/mid-range ejection fraction
Authors: Santos J , Pires I , Neto V , Goncalves L , Correia J , Almeida I , Correia E
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is considered a more sensitive marker of systolic dysfunction than other measures commonly used in clinical practice, such as left ventricle ejection fraction (EF). Our objective was to evaluate the impact of reduced GLS in death and cardiovascular events in patients hospitalized due to heart failure with mid-range or preserved ejection fraction, with previous history of acute myocardial infarction.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 170 patients admitted to a Cardiology ward due to acute heart failure (AHF) was performed. Patients with reduced EF (Simpson biplane method - EF<40%) were excluded based on echocardiographic evaluation after AHF stabilization. GLS measured by “speckle tracking” technique was calculated for each patient. Measurements were made by the same operator to minimize interoperator variability. Mann-Whitney U test was used for univariate analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival plots and Cox-regression analysis were performed to assess differences in 12-month mortality (12MM) and in the composite endpoint of cardiovascular event or death (12CVM) at 12 months.

Results

A total of 127 patients were included. Mean patient age was 64 (±14) years; 72% were men. 48% of patients had history of ST elevation AMI. Mean EF was 54% (±8) and mean GLS was −14.3 (±3.8). Rates of 12MM and 12CV M were 14.2% and 19.3%, respectively. A statistically significant association between 12MM and 12MCV was found in univariate analysis for GLS (p<0.001). Kaplan-Meyer survival plots revealed that a compromised GLS (<−16) was associated with significantly increased 12MM (23% vs 2.5%, X2: 7.999, p=0.005) and 12CVM (26.6% vs 10%, X2: 4.139, p=0.042). When stratified by mid-range vs preserved EF, GLS <−16 was associated with worse outcomes, although the results did not reach statistical significance (p>0.05). However, when considering a severely compromised GLS (<−13), GLS was significantly associated with increased 12MM (52% vs 8.3%, X2: 5.533, p=0.019) and 12CVM (50% vs 8.3%, X2: 4.970, p=0.026), in the subgroup of patients with heart failure with mid-range EF. Cox-regression analysis demonstrated that GLS was independently associated with 12MM (HR: 0.668p, <0.001) and the 12CVM composite endpoint (HR: 0.819, p=0.008), even after adjustment for other important prognostic markers such as chronic kidney disease, pulmonary disease and diabetes, with significant hazard ratio reduction for each positive point increase in GLS.

Conclusion

GLS is an independent predictor of 12MM and 12CVM in patients hospitalized due to AHF, with an EF ≥40% and previous history of acute myocardial infarction. In the subgroup of patients with heart failure with mid-range EF, a severely compromised GLS (<−13) is a strong predictor of 12MM and 12CVM.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Myocardial Work and long-term prognosis in patients after ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Timoteo A , Moura Branco L , Galrinho A , Mano T , Rio P , Castelo A , Cruz Ferreira R
Published: October 2021

Background

Left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain has demonstrated incremental prognostic value over LV ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with ST-segment-elevation acute myocardial infarction. However, LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) does not take into consideration the effect of afterload. Myocardial work (MW) by speckle-tracking echocardiography integrates blood pressure measurements (afterload) with LV GLS and it has been recently demonstrated that Global Work Efficiency (GWE) is associated with long-term all-cause mortality. It remains to be demonstrated if MW indices are associated with hard cardiovascular endpoints. The present study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of global LV MW obtained from pressure-strain loops with echocardiography in patients with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods

A total of 100 consecutive ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients (mean age, 61±12 years; 75% men) that survived to discharge were retrospectively analysed. LVEF, GLS and all LVMW indices were measured by transthoracic echocardiography before discharge (4.6±2.0 days after admission). All patients had at least a two-year follow-up (mean follow-up of 833±172 days). Outcomes: all-cause mortality, major acute cardiovascular events (a composite of cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, unplanned cardiovascular admission) and heart failure hospitalization.

Results

In the two-year follow-up, 6 patients died, there were 17 patients with MACE, and 3 patients were hospitalized with heart failure. We confirmed that for all-cause mortality, GWE showed higher discrimination, compared to GLS (Table 1), with a cut-off of 83% (log-rank <0,001). For MACE, the performance of all methods is suboptimal, with an AUC <0.65 for all variables, except for GLS. For heart failure admission, performance is slightly better, but GLS is still the better parameter to predict this event.

Conclusions

LVGWE is a better predictor of all-cause mortality compared to GLS, but MW indices failed to demonstrate a prognostic impact in long-term cardiovascular events. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm this finding.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Table 1
Left ventricular diastolic function during pregnancy: insights from conventional and speckle tracking echo parameters
Authors: Tryfou E , Kostakou P , Kostopoulos V , Paraskevaidis I , Olympios C , Kouris N
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Profound changes occur in the cardiovascular system during pregnancy, regarding to induce cardiac pumping function. Although LV systolic and diastolic function have been thoroughly studied using conventional indices, speckle tracking parameters of cardiac function are not well described.

Purpose

The aim of our study was to evaluate the LV diastolic function during an uncomplicated pregnancy using both traditional and newer speckle tracking parameters.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 40 consecutive pregnant women in whom serial echocardiographic evaluation was performed in each pregnancy trimester (1st: 8th–12th week, 2nd: 22th–26th week, 3rd: 32–36th week) and 6 months after delivery. Mitral inflow velocities (E, A), mitral annulus TDI velocities (E', A'), ratio E/A and E/E' and untwisting velocity rate were measured after cautious selection of studies with legible images in.

Results

The peak E transmitral inflow velocity during early diastole decreased significantly during pregnancy especially between 2nd and 3rd trimester and increased again postpartum (p1-2=0.475, p2-3<0.05 p3-4<0.05). The peak A flow velocity during atrial contraction did not change significantly during pregnancy (p1-2=0.333, p2-3=0.952, p3-4=0.989). As a result, E/A ratio was decreasing as pregnancy was advancing (p1-2=0.964, p2-3<0.05, p3-4=0.240). TDI E' early diastolic velocity was decreased especially in the 3rd trimester and recovered postpartum (p1-2=0.138, p2-3<0.01, p3-4<0.01) while E/E' ratio was increased especially in the 2nd trimester (p1-2<0.05, p2-3=0.572, p3-4=0.021, p1-4=0.383) and also recovered postpartum. Peak untwisting velocity rate demontrated a progressive decrease during pregnancy, although not statistically significant. There was a trend towards recovery in the puerperium (p1-2=0.072, p2-3=0.679, p3-4=0.052, p1-4=0.929) (Table 1).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that diastolic function seems to be impaired during an uncomplicated pregnancy. However all the conventional and newer speckle tracking indices of diastolic function remain in normal range. Postpartum appears to be a recovery process in all parameters.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Ventricular-arterial coupling changes as an early predictor of left ventricular remodelling in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gaczol M , Olszanecka A , Rajzer M , Wojciechowska W
Published: October 2021

Objective

Atrial fibrillation (AF) can be associated with adverse atrial and ventricular remodelling also in the absence of persistently elevated heart rate. Ventricular–arterial coupling (VAC) plays a pivotal role in cardiac and aortic adaptation to pathophysiological conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in conventional and novel VAC indexes in long lasting paroxysmal AF.

Methods

Participants with paroxysmal AF, in sinus rhythm on admission, with preserved left ventricle (LV) systolic function and carotid – femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) within normal range were carefully selected from consecutive patients admitted to University Hospital in Krakow for scheduled AF ablation. We excluded those with established coronary artery disease, moderate or severe heart valves disease, with uncontrolled hypertension or other comorbidities. The anthropometric and demographic data, medical history, and habits were collected using standardized questionnaire. A total of 51 (mean age 57.7 yrs; 37 men) patients underwent simultaneous echocardiographic and arterial data acquisition. End-systolic pressure was determined from central pulse wave analyses. Arterial elastance (Ea) and LV elastance (Ees) were calculated as end-systolic pressure/stroke volume and end-systolic pressure/end-systolic volume. Two-dimensional speckle tracking was used to derive LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), and then PWV to GLS ratio was calculated.

Results

Patient presented moderate (EHRA class median = 2b) and long-lasting symptoms (median of AF history 3 years). There was an association of Ees (parameter estimate (PE) 0.12; P=0.0004) and VAC (Ea/Ees) (PE=−0.13; P=0.33) with duration of AF history in the univariate linear regression model and this association retain statistically significant in a model including age, sex, history of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Longer history of AF was related to lower PWV to GLS ratio, however this association reached statistical significance only among patients with AF lasting more than 3 years (PE=−0.14; P=0.024) and persisted significant after accounting for covariates.

Conclusion

The relationship between AF and LV dysfunction is complex and potentially bi-directional. Paroxysmal AF however, can contribute to abnormality in heart–vessel coupling, even when LV function remained within the normal range, indicating early stage of ventricular remodelling due to arrythmia.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Krakow
Effect of interventional edge-to-edge repair in tricuspid regurgitation on ring dimensions
Authors: Goebel B , Salomon C , Abdulrahman M , Richter S , El Garhy M , Costello-Boerrigter L , Lapp H , Lauten P
Published: October 2021

Background

The concept of percutaneous tricuspid valve edge-to-edge repair (pTVR) is based on the connection of leaflets in the area of insufficiency using a coaptation device. By closing the coaptation device a considerable tractive force is applied on the leaflets, which might have an effect on the valve ring. Aim of the study was to examine the impact of device implantation on tricuspid ring dimensions.

Methods

During pTVR 3D zoom loops of tricuspid valve were acquired before and after clip placement using transoesophageal echocardiography. Measurements of TV ring dimensions included the following parameters: ring area (TV area), maximal diameter, minimal diameter, eccentricity index (Figure 1). Tenting area was derived from a four-chamber view of the valve. In addition, regurgitation severity was graded from 1+ to 5+ by measuring vena contracta area (VCA3D) in 3D full volume colour Doppler loop using multiplanar reconstruction. Right atrial (RA) and ventricular volumes (RVVd3D, RVVs3D) and function (RVEF3D) were assessed in a 3D full volume loop.

Results

The study population comprised 97 patients (age 78±6 years, 47 male), who underwent pTVR at our hospital. As expected cavity dimension correlated with TV area size (for RVVd3D r=0.51, p<0.001 and for RA volume r=0.71, p<0.001). The mean TV ring area was significantly reduced (ring area 8.53±2.23 cm2/m2BSA vs. 7.55±2.18 cm2/m2BSA, p<0.001) and the ring shape became more oval (Eccentricity index 1.2±0.15 vs. 1.29±0.17, p<0.001) after pTVR. The reduction of ring area (12±7%, range 0.7–28%) showed an only modest correlation to the number of implanted coaptation devices (r=0.30, p<0.001) and percentage reduction of VCA3D (r=0.36, p<0.001). In the patient group with a ring area change ≥12% a reduction to TR grade ≤2+ by pTVR was achieved in 83% of cases, whereas only 62% of patients reached moderate TR when area change was below 12%.

Conclusion

pTVR using coaptation devices reduces the ring area. This effect is related to the number of devices implanted.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Impact of chronic mitral regurgitation on 3D atrial size and mechanics. Insights from the prospective 3D-PRIME study
Authors: Cramariuc D , Valeur A , Persson R M , Berg-Hansen C E , Urheim S
Published: October 2021

Background

Chronic mitral regurgitation (MR) leads to progressive left atrial (LA) dilation. Its relative contribution to 3-dimensional (3D) LA structural and functional remodelling and the impact of concomitant clinical and hemodynamic factors, has been less explored.

Aims

To assess 3D LA size and mechanics, as well as mean LA pressure estimated from the pulmonary vein flow, in relation to chronic MR severity.

Methods

In the prospective 3D-PRIME (3D Echocardiography and Cardiovascular Prognosis in Mitral Regurgitation) study, 46 patients with chronic MR (69±13 years, body mass index (BMI) 26.2±4.3kg/m2, 50% women, 26% with atrial fibrillation, 30% with severe MR) recruited at one heart valve center were investigated with 2D and 3D transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. MR severity was quantified by the regurgitant volume (RV) and MR classified as organic, atrial functional or ventricular functional, as by current recommendations. LA size was measured by 3D maximum volume (LAV) indexed for body surface area (LAVI), LA mechanics by 3D peak relative increase in longitudinal volume in the reservoir phase (Sr), and mitral size by 3D annulus area and total leaflet area. Pulmonary vein Doppler flow profile was recorded in both right and left upper veins, and mean LA pressure was estimated from the average pulmonary vein systolic/diastolic velocity time integral ratio.

Results

Average mitral RV was 38±26ml, LAVI 53ml/m2, and Sr 17±11%. Increased mitral RV correlated with higher LAV and mean LA pressure (Figure 1), larger mitral annulus area (r=0.42) and total leaflet area (r=0.38) (all p<0.01), but not with Sr. In backward stepwise multivariate linear regression analyses, increased LAVI was independently predicted by larger mitral RV, higher age and atrial fibrillation (R2=0.62), higher mean LAP by larger mitral RV, body mass index and atrial fibrillation (R2=0.55), while lower Sr was associated with higher age and atrial fibrillation (R2=0.62) (all p<0.001). Patients with atrial functional MR (30% of the total group) had the largest LAVs and lowest Sr despite slightly lower mitral RV (Figure 2).

Conclusion

Chronic MR is associated with progressive increase in LA volume, mean LA pressure, and mitral annulus and total leaflet area. While MR is accompanied by low 3D LA longitudinal deformation, impaired LA mechanics is multifactorial and related closely to age and history of atrial arrythmias.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Haukeland University Hospital Figure 1Figure 2
Assessment of intracardiac flow dynamics for the evaluation of patients with aortic stenosis
Authors: Strangio A , Sabatino J , Leo I , Maglione M , Troilo F , Loliva G , Canino G , Spaccarotella C A , De Rosa S , Indolfi C
Published: October 2021

Background

Assessment of intracardiac flows and turbulence has acquired rising significance in the past few years, due to the development and introduction of technologies for non-invasive cardiovascular imaging. Recent studies have shown that alterations in intracardiac fluid dynamics can be helpful to identify abnormalities in cardiac function.

Purpose

This study investigates the additional information provided by the quantitative assessment of intracardiac flow dynamics for the evaluation of patients with aortic stenosis (AS), by using an advanced echocardiography vortex-based approach.

Methods

Sixty-one patients with severe AS (33 females) and 38 healthy sex- and BSA-matched controls (CTRL) (15 females) were prospectively included and underwent echocardiographic assessment of intracardiac flow dynamics. Echocardiographic measurements were performed on apical three chamber views. The HyperDoppler software adapted to the echo-scanner without contrast injection was used to assess intracardiac vortex properties. The following parameters were obtained: vortex area (VA) (the ratio between the total vortex area and the left ventricular (LV) area); vortex length (VL) (the longitudinal length of the vortex relative to the total LV length; vortex depth (VD) (the distance of the vortex center from the LV base relative to the total LV long axis). Inter-rater variability was measured using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) between two independent operators.

Results

Patients with severe AS (mean gradient: 47,5±13,9 mmHg; aortic valve area: 0.7±0.2 cm2; ejection fraction: 53±7%) had increased LV wall thickness (p<0.001) and mass index (p<0.001) compared with controls. Greater indexed left atrial volume (p<0.001), E/e' (p<0.001) and trans-tricuspid gradient (p<0.001) were also observed in the AS group. The assessment of VA, VL and VD was feasible in the whole population. Their calculation was reliable, as ICCs were very good for VA (0.878, p=0.033), VL (0.960, p=0.004) and VD (0,905, p=0.021). Mean VA was significantly larger in patients with severe aortic stenosis compared with CTRL (p=0.033). VL and VD (p=0.026 and p>0.001, respectively) were significantly higher in AS patients compared with CTRL. Among those who underwent TAVR, we observed a significant difference in the delta values of VA and VL pre-postTAVR in patients with and without significant paravalvular leak (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The newly defined VA, VL and VD, quantitative indices of vortical flow, were significantly increased in the LV cavity of patients with severe AS compared to normal subjects. These indices, whose measurement was feasible and reliable, might provide complementary information to standard echocardiography, useful for the further diagnostic and prognostic characterization of the heterogeneous population of patients with severe AS.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Decreased left atrial function in morbid obese patients without known cardiac disease
Authors: Aga Y , Kroon D , Snelder S , Van Dalen B , Zijlstra F
Published: October 2021

Background

Obesity is an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation and heart failure. However, little is known about the underlying pathophysiology. Left atrial (LA) dysfunction due to diastolic dysfunction and chronic volume overload may play a significant role in morbid obesity.

Purpose

To compare LA function in morbid obese and non-obese individuals, and secondly, to determine whether LA function in morbid obese patients improves one year after bariatric surgery.

Methods

Data of morbid obese patients without known cardiac disease included in the CARdiac Dysfunction In Obesity (CARDIOBESE) study were used. Patients and age- and gender matched non-obese controls underwent transthoracic echocardiography. In the morbid obese patients echocardiography was repeated 1 year after bariatric surgery. LA reservoir strain (LASr), LA conduit strain (LAScd), and LA contractile strain (LASct) were analyzed with speckle tracking using dedicated software (TomTecArena, integrated in Sectra IDS7).

Results

64 morbid obese patients were compared with 46 non-obese controls. Obese patients had significantly decreased LA function compared with non-obese individuals (LASr 39.6±10.8% vs 31.3±8.3%, p<0.001; LAScd −24.9±8.3% vs −19.5±7.2%, p<0.001; LASct −14.7±5.3% vs −11.8±3.5%, p=0.002). There was no significant difference in diastolic function between the non-obese and morbid obese group (normal function 38.2% vs 52.7%, intermediate function 3.6% vs 4.5%, dysfunction 0% vs 0.9%, p=0.689). In 47 obese patients LA strain did not improve significantly 1 year after bariatric surgery, although there was a trend of improvement in all phases of LA function (LASr 31.0±8.2% vs 33.1±8.2%, p=0.089; LAScd −19.4±7.1% vs −20.4±6.6%, p=0.349; LASct −11.6±3.3% vs −12.8±5.4%, p=0.151).

Conclusions

Morbid obese patients without known cardiac disease have impairment in all phases of LA function. This subclinical cardiac dysfunction would have remained largely unmasked with assessment of diastolic function according to current guidelines, as shown by the comparable proportion of obese and non-obese individuals with diastolic dysfunction. LA dysfunction in obesity may therefore be an early sign of cardiac disease and a predictor for developing atrial fibrillation and heart failure. LA function did not improve one year after bariatric surgery. Longer follow-up after bariatric surgery may be needed to investigate whether improvement of LA function will occur after a longer period following weight loss surgery.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): BeterKeten Outcomes of the study populationLeft atrial strain outcomes
Clinical outcome after MitraClip procedure: role of right ventricle
Authors: Barosi A , Gherbesi E , Colombo S , Giavarini A , Cusmano I , Colombo A , Di Biasi M , Viecca M
Published: October 2021

Background

MitraClip system is a device for percutaneous edge-to-edge repair of the mitral valve in symptomatic patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) not eligible for surgery, but frequently heart failure symptoms remain substantial on mid-term follow-up. Recently, right ventricular (RV) to pulmonary arterial (PA) coupling has emerged as a relevant prognostic predictor in heart failure but little is known about its prognostic role in patients after MitraClip implantation.

Purpose

To identify echocardiographic predictors of clinical outcome after MitraClip procedure, with a particular focus on RV-PA coupling.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with severe MR who underwent MitraClip implantation between April 2015 and October 2019 at our Institution. Echocardiographic data were assessed at baseline, 3 and 12 months after the procedure; RV to PA coupling was assessed using the ratio between tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP). Functional class was assessed at 12 months of follow-up. Significance level was set to 0.05 and SPSS was used for statistical analysis.

Results

41 patients were included (age 77.1±7.3, 71% male, BMI 25.8±5.5). MR was primary, functional and mixed in 22, 76 and 2% of patients, respectively. 1/2/3 mitraclips were implanted in 39/56/5% of patients, respectively.

Echocardiographic data at baseline, at 3 and 12 months follow-up are shown in Table.

NYHA class at 12 months significantly correlated with TAPSE and PASP at 3 months follow-up echocardiogram (beta coefficient −0.83 and 0.78 respectively). On the contrary, NYHA class did not show a correlation with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) or residual MR grade.

At 12 months 44% of patients showed an improvement in NYHA class; these patients had a better TAPSE (22.7±1.3 vs 19.4±4.6 mm), a lower PASP (37.9±10.2 vs 48.5±12.9 mmHg) and a better TAPSE/PASP (0.61±0.2 vs 0.42±0.2) compared to patients who did not improve their functional class, while LVEF and residual MR did not differ.

Conclusion

In this sample of significant MR undergoing repair with MitraClip System, patients with functional class improvement at 12 months follow-up showed a better RV-coupling without difference in LV function and residual MR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Table 1
Cardio-pulmonary transit-time by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging: associates to infarct severity and adverse events after reperfused STEMI
Authors: Troger F , Reindl M , Pamminger M , Tiller C , Holzknecht M , Lechner I , Reinstadler S J , Metzler B , Klug G , Mayr A
Published: October 2021

Background

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) data on cardiopulmonary-transit-time (cpTT) and its associates with infarct characteristics and clinical outcome after reperfused ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are lacking so far.

Purpose

cpTT may serve as surrogate parameter for integrative cardiac performance and has been linked to heart failure.

Methods

A total of 207 patients (179 men [87%], median age 55 [interquartile range (IQR) 49–64] with acute STEMI underwent CMR on day 3 [IQR 2–4] and 4 months (m) [IQR 4–5] after primary percutaneous coronary intervention. cpTT was taken as the time between the peaks of time-intensity curves of gadolinium contrast to pass from the right ventricle (RV) to the left ventricle (LV). Infarct size, extent of microvascular obstruction (MVO), RV and LV dimensions and function were assessed at both occasions.

Results

cpTT decreased significantly between baseline and 4m CMR scan (8.6 seconds [IQR 7.5–9.6] to 7.8 sec [IQR 7–8.7], respectively, p<0.0001). Patients with presence of MVO had significantly prolonged cpTT at baseline and 4m follow-up (all p<0.022). According to Cox regression analysis (“functional model”) baseline cpTT (hazard ratio (HR) 1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–2.2; p=0.008) remained significantly associated to the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) after adjustment for LV ejection fraction (EF) and cardiac index. According to Cox regression analysis (“tissue model”) baseline cpTT (HR 1.462, 95% CI 1.02–2.09, p=0.039) as well as extent of MVO (HR 1.196, 95% CI 1.081–1.324, p=0.001) remained significantly associated to MACE after adjustment for infarct size. Baseline cpTT (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.725, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57–0.88; p<0.009) was significantly higher for the prediction of MACE compared to LV ejection fraction (AUC: 0.686, 95% CI 0.51–0.87; p=0.031. AUC difference: 0.039, p<0.03). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, cpTT ≥9 sec was associated with clinical adverse cardiovascular events (p=0.008).

Conclusion

Following reperfused STEMI, cpTT predicts prognosis independently of infarct size and systolic function. Moreover, cpTT provides significantly higher prognostic implication in comparison with LV ejection fraction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. cpTT over the cardiac cycle.Computation of cpTT in 2 STEMI patients.
Echocardiographic parameters as predictors of three-months mortality in patients with 2019 Coronavirus infection
Authors: Miranda Aquino T , Pereira-Forcado J M , Ordonez-Salazar B , Dominguez-Trejo G , Rangel-Guerra A , Martinez-Castillo J , Vazquez-Orozco R J , Guevara-Canseco A P , Perez-Topete S E , Aceves-Millan R , Amezcua-Gomez L , Ixcamparij-Rosales C
Published: October 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 is a systemic entity, where cardiac involvement has been described. The echocardiogram is a diagnostic tool that describes myocardial damage with good certainty.

Objectives

Determine which echocardiographic parameters are predictors of mortality. Analyze if there is a difference in clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic variables in terms of patients who died versus those who survived. Investigate the cut-off point of the echocardiographic parameters that is best associated with mortality.

Methods

Prospective, analytical, comparative study. Patients admitted to the hospital with Coronavirus 2019 infection. Clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic variables will be assessed. The association with three-month mortality of the different variables will be determined. We used ROC-curves for the best cut-off associated with mortality. The association with three-month mortality was analized using Cox regression, unadjusted analysis of the variables was performed, as well as adjusted analysis for age and gender.

Results

84 patients were included, a mortality of 29% was documented. Significant differences were found in the left atrial volumen index, the E/e', the proportion of dilatation of the right ventricle and diastolic dysfunction. Tricuspid annulus anterior systolic excursion (TAPSE), pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAA), tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRV), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), left ventricular longitudinal strain (LVGLS), of the left atrium (LAGLS) and the right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS). Right ventricular dilation, right ventricular shortening fraction, TAPSE, PASP, TRV, LVGLS, LAGLS, and RVFWLS were associated with mortality.

Conclusion

Right ventricular dilation, right ventricular shortening fraction, TAPSE, PASP, TRV, LVGLS, LAGLS, and RVFWLS are the echocardiographic parameters that were associated with three-month mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Table 2
The relationship between coronary anatomy and primary percutaneous coronary intervention features and prognostically unfavorable CMR-based characteristics of acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Terenicheva M , Shakhnovich R M , Stukalova O V , Butorova E A , Ternovoy S K
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To investigate the impact of coronary anatomy and pPCI parameters on the most prognostically significant MRI measures of acute MI with ST segment elevation (MVO, infarct size).

Methods

The study included 52 patients with STEMI and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) of infarct-related arteries (IRA). On Days 3–7 contrast-enhanced cardiac MRI was done. Tissue analysis of scans was performed evaluating infarct size, presence and size of MVO.

Results

The study included 52 patients with first STEMI within <48 hours of onset. All patients urgently underwent pPCI for reperfusion. Patients were divided into 2 groups separated by the median time to reperfusion treatment (3 hours). There were no significant differences between groups in MRI-measured EF (In the group with later pPCI (>3 hours of symptom onset EF was 49.0±11.0%, and in the comparator group – 45.7±10.5%, p=0,2). MRI-measured infarct size was significantly higher in the group where pPCI was done >3 hours of symptom onset: 18.1±1.7% of the LV mass, compared to the early reperfusion group – 10.9±1.9% (p=0.009). MVO magnitude was also higher in the later pPCI group (2.6±0.64% vs 0.03±0.3% in the comparator group), (p<0,027). Correlation analysis also revealed a reliable relationship between IS and time to reperfusion (R 0.381, p=0.006). LAD lesions were associated with higher infarct size values (p=0.02) and higher risk of MVO (odds ratio 2.9, CI 0.83–10.0, p=0.03).

Complete occlusion of IRA was associated with higher IS (16,97±3.3 vs 12.05±1.4, p=0.02). There was no reliable correlations between IRA patientcy and MVO magnitude (p=0.7).

Conclusions

In this study pPCI timing, in groups of below and more than 3 hours after symptom onset, had no significant impact on EF, as determined by MRI. However, pPCI timing exceeding 3 hours significantly influenced infarct size, the occurrence and magnitude of microvascular obstruction. LAD being the IRA was associated with larger IS, higher risks of MVO development. Patient IRA was associated with smaller IS as determined by MRI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Ministry of Healthcare Russian Federation
Preponderance of right ventricular dysfunction in COVID-19 patients with inflammatory heart disease
Authors: Thodeti S T , Lattanzio D S L , Kuraan T M K , Khalid M U K , Drenic D D , Raghupathy R S R , Vallabhaneni S V V , Mikolich J R M
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Recently published data suggests that inflammatory heart disease (IHD) is far more prevalent in COVID-19 patients than initially expected. Specifically, there have been reports of greater than expected right ventricular (RV) involvement in the post COVID-19 recovery period. However, there are no published data comparing RV dysfunction in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patient cohorts with IHD.

Purpose

This study was designed to assess and compare the prevalence of RV hypokinesis in 2 patient cohorts: patients with COVID-19 related IHD and patients with non-COVID-19 related IHD, based on cardiac MRI findings (CMR).

Methods

An institutional cardiac imaging database was queried for all patients with IHD documented by CMR. Inflammatory heart disease was defined as pericarditis and/or myocarditis using the recently modified Lake Louise criteria, including T1 and T2 relaxation mapping. The prevalence of IHD was evaluated in 2 separate patient cohorts, subjects with COVID-19 related IHD and subjects with non-COVID-19 related IHD. Further assessment of these 2 patients cohorts included the presence of RV hypokinesis. A two-tailed Z-test was used for statistical comparison of the presence of IHD and the presence of RV hypokinesis in these 2 patient cohorts.

Results

62 COVID patients and 6782 non-COVID patients were identified in the imaging database. 53 of the 62 COVID patients (85.5%) had evidence of IHD on CMR study. In contrast, 1273 of the 6782 patients (18.8%) had documented IHD detected by CMR. There was a statistically significant difference between the incidence of IHD in the 2 patient groups (p-value <0.ehab724.01391). Furthermore, of the 53 COVID patients with IHD, 30 (56.6%) showed evidence of RV hypokinesis on CMR. Of the 1273 non-COVID patients with IHD, only 126 (9.9%) showed evidence of RV hypokinesis on CMR. There was a statistically significant difference between the incidence of RV hypokinesis among the 2 groups (p-value <0.ehab724.01391). Details are provided in Figure 1.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the prevalence of IHD in COVID-19 patients is 4 times greater than in patients with a non-COVID etiology, based on CMR imaging findings. Furthermore, the occurrence of RV hypokinesis is 5 times greater in COVID-19 patients than in IHD patients with a non-COVID etiology, also based on CMR findings. These data suggest that CMR imaging is of value in detecting both IHD and RV dysfunction, which are often difficult to detect with other imaging modalities.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Incidence and predictors of left atrial appendage thrombus on transoesophageal echocardiography before elective cardioversion
Authors: Wegner F , Radke R , Ellermann C , Wolfes J , Fischer A J , Baumgartner H , Eckardt L , Diller G P , Orwat S
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Guidelines recommend transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) before cardioversion in thrombogenic arrhythmias when the requirement of ≥3 weeks of anticoagulation is not met. Current data to support this approach, especially with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC), are scarce.

Methods

We analysed consecutive elective pre-cardioversion TOE in a high-volume electrophysiology centre for the occurrence of LAA thrombi or reduced LAA flow velocity. Possible predictors were recorded and compared in a multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Consecutive pre-cardioversion TOE in 512 patients (148 female, median age 69 years) were included. In all patients, indication for TOE was either intake of anticoagulation <3 weeks before cardioversion or uncertain adherence to the prescribed anticoagulation regimen. Of the 512 TOE, 19 (3.7%) depicted a LAA thrombus. An additional 41 patients (8.0%) showed either a reduced LAA flow velocity (≤20cm/s), LAA sludge, or both (see figure). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, QRS width on admission 12-lead ECG emerged as a possible predictor of LAA thrombus and reduced LAA flow (p=0.008). Noteworthy, a high CHA2DS2-VaSc-Score was not associated with an increased risk of reduced LAA emptying velocity and LAA thrombi were even found in patients with a CHA2DS2-VaSc-Score of 0 (n=1) and 1 (n=1).

Conclusion

The presence of LAA thrombus before an elective cardioversion is a rare event in the age of direct oral anticoagulants. However, LAA thrombi occurred even in supposed low-risk individuals according to the CHA2DS2-VaSc score. QRS width may aid in identifying patients at a high risk of a reduced LAA flow velocity.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1. Representative images of a solid LAA thrombus (panel A), LAA sludge (panel B, not containing a solid thrombus on i.v. contrast imaging), and a LAA free of thrombus or sludge (panel C). Panel D shows the PW Doppler signal in a patient with LAA emptying velocity reduced ≤20cm/s while panel E shows a LAA with normal flow characteristics.
Cut-off value of coronary flow velocity reserve obtained by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography during intravenous infusion of dobutamine for diagnosis of functional significant myocardial bridging
Authors: Aleksandric S , Djordjevic-Dikic A , Tesic M , Giga V , Dobric M , Banovic M , Boskovic N , Juricic S , Vukcevic V , Tomasevic M , Stojkovic S , Orlic D , Nedeljkovic M , Stankovic G , Beleslin B
Published: October 2021

Background

Recent studies showed that coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) measurement by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (TTDE) during inotropic stimulation with dobutamine (DOB), in comparison to vasodilation with adenosine, provides more reliable functional evaluation of myocardial bridging (MB). However, the adequate cut-off value of CFVR during DOB for diagnosing functional significant MB has not been fully established.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the adequate cut-off value of TTDE- CFVR during DOB for diagnosis of functional significant MB.

Methods

This prospective study included 79 patients (54 males, mean age 55±10 years) with angiographic evidence of isolated MB on the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and systolic compression ≥50% diameter stenosis. Exercise stress-echocardiography test (ExSE) and TTDE-CFVR in the distal segment of LAD during DOB infusion (DOB: 10–40μg/kg/min) were performed in all patients. Percent diameter stenosis (DS) of MB at end-systole and end-diastole were analyzed using quantitative coronary angiography.

Results

Exercise-SE was positive for myocardial ischemia in 22/79 (28%). CFVR during peak DOB was significantly lower in SE-positive group in comparison to SE-negative group (1.94±0.16 vs. 2.78±0.53, p<0.001). ROC analysis identifies the optimal CFVR during peak DOB cut-off value <2.1 (AUC 0.985, 95% CI: 0.965–1.000, p<0.001), with a sensitivity of 96% and specificity of 95%, positive predictive value of 88%, and negative predictive value of 98%, for identifying functionally significant MB associated with stress-induced myocardial ischemia. The categorical agreement between TTDE-CFVR at peak DOB and ExSE was high (kappa value = 0.877, p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that percent DS at end-diastole was the only independent predictor of ischemic CFVR value <2.1 (OR: 1.136, 95% CI: 1.045–1.235, p=0.003).

Conclusion

A cut-off value <2.1 of CFVR during DOB infusion obtained by TTDE may adequate discriminate functional significant MB that induce myocardial ischemia which is caused by an incomplete diastolic MB-decompression.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Consequences on the right ventricular to pulmonary circulation coupling of COVID-19 infection
Authors: Vella A M , Bursi F , Santangelo G , Barbieri A , Toriello F , Valli F , Sansalone D , Carugo S , Guazzi M
Published: October 2021

Background

Right Ventricular (RV) dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension (PH) are two very likely acute and long term targets of COVID-19 pneumonia, with a potential prognostic implications.

Purpose

To determine the COVID-19 pneumonia effects on the right ventricular to pulmonary circulation coupling through bedside echocardiography and extend its implications to prognostic assessment.

Methods

Single-centre study including consecutive subjects hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia who underwent a clinical indicated echocardiogram between March 2020 and December 2020. Extensive analysis of cardiac function was performed offline by an operator blinded to clinical data, laboratory findings and CT scans.

Results

133 patients were enrolled (mean age 69±12 years, 57% men), 38% of whom already had cardiac disease in their medical history. In-hospital mortality was 26% (35 pts), during a mean hospital stay of 26±16 days. Non survivors had higher pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and worse RV function, assessed with both standard parameters (i.e. TAPSE) and with the novel speckle tracking analysis by RV-Global Longitudinal Strain (RV-GLS) and RV-Free Wall Longitudinal Strain (RV-FWLS). The combination of these two variables in TAPSE/PASP ratio allows assessment of RV to pulmonary circulation (Pc) coupling and was strongly associated with in-hospital death (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.59–0.89, p=0.003) and patients with TAPSE/PASP<0.57 mm/mmHg had a more than 4-fold increased risk of in-hospital death (HR 4.8, 95% CI 1.7–13.1, p=0.003). In patients where speckle tracking analysis was feasible, we examined RV-GLS/PASP and RV-FWLS/PASP and found that it was associated with in-hospital mortality. The best cut-offs for predicting in-hospital mortality was 0.51 for RV-GLS/PASP (94% sensitivity and 59% specificity) and 0.49 for RV-free wall LS (87% sensitivity and 70% specificity). At the multivariable analysis RV to Pc remained associated with in-hospital death after adjustments for age, PaO2/FiO2, LVEF, and severity of lung involvement at the CT.

Conclusions

Either PH and RV dysfunction predict in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. The assessment of RV to Pc coupling, however, better describes the adaptive RV response to increased PASP and gives additional prognostic information in a population with a relevant prevalence of comorbidities.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Is this atherosclerosis in patients with HIV? Data received by OCT
Authors: Efendieva N M , Shevchenko O P , Sozykine A V , Nikitin A E , Shevchenko A O , Orlova-Morozova E A , Vasilyeva V P , Shlykov A V , Novikova N A
Published: October 2021

Background

Chronic infection by HIV evolves with a vascular inflammatory action causing endothelial dysfunction. The action of the virus as well as the side effects of antiretroviral drugs contributes to the progression of cardiovascular diseases. The study aimed to characterise the changes of the structure of the coronary wall and the thickening of the intima by Optical Coherence Tomography in HIV-infected patients with or without symptoms of coronary heart disease.

Methods

Fifty-two HIV-infected individuals had a mean age of 49.8±11.4 years. There were 75% men, diabetes 30,8%, hypertension 30,8%, smokers 34,62% and 7,7% with cholesterol levels ≥99 mg/dl. Control group included 120 non-HIV-infected controls with coronary heart disease. All the participants from HIV-group receive ART, 100% of participants had plasma HIV RNA <20 copies/mL and 78,85% of them have symptoms of coronary artery disease.

Results

The average diffuse homogeneous thickening of the intima in patients with HIV was 0.67±0.24 mm, and 0.34±0.18 mm in control group, with normal values not exceeding 0.05 mm. There was impaired three-layer structure of coronary wall in 90,4% (47 of 52) HIV-infected participants and in 60% of control group, atherosclerotic plaque had only 34,62% of HIV group. All HIV-infected patients receive ART more than 5 years.

Conclusion

The coronary angiography and OCT demonstratedthat the inflammatory process resulting from HIV-infection or HAART may be relevant in the changes of coronary arteries in HIV-positive patients. The changes are predominantly represented by thickening of the intima, impaired three-layer structure of arterial wall and accelerating atherosclerosis.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. PirogovCentral Clinical Hospital of Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia
Impact of left atrial strain assessed with feature-tracking computed tomography on long-term mortality after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Hirasawa K , Singh G K , Kuneman J H , Ajmone Marsan N , Delgado V , Bax J J
Published: October 2021

Background

Aortic stenosis (AS) induces left atrial (LA) remodeling through the increase of left ventricular (LV) filling pressure. Peak left atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) has been proposed as a prognostic marker in patients with AS. Novel feature-tracking (FT) software allows to assess LA strain from multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) dataset.

Purpose

To investigate the association between PALS using FT MDCT and moratlity in patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods

A total of 369 Patients (mean 80±7 years, 51% male) who underwent preprocedual MDCT before TAVI and had suitable data for measureing PALS using dedicated FT software were included. Patients were classified into 4 groups according to PALS quartiles; PALS more than 19.3% (Q1), 19.3% or less to more than 15.0% (Q2), 15.0% or less to more than 9.1% (Q3), and 9.1% or less (Q4). The primary outcome was all-caurse mortality.

Results

During median follow-up of 45 [22 - 68] months, 124 patients (34%) were died. On multivariable Cox regression analysis, PALS is an independently associated with all-cause mortality (HR: 0.958 [95% CI: 0.925–0.993], P=0.006). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed the worse outcome of the quatile with more impaired PALS (Logrank P<0.001). Compared to Q1, Q3 and Q4 had higher risk of mortality after TAVI (HR: 2.475 [95% CI: 1.411–4.340] for Q3, HR: 3.253 [95% CI: 1.878–5.633] for Q4).

Conclusion

In this retrospective study, PALS measured with FT MDCT was strongly associated with all-cause mortality after TAVI. LA functial assessment using MDCT may have a importan role for risk stratification in patients referred to TAVI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): ESC research grant 2018 K-M curve according to PALS quartiles
Correlation between mitral CT calcium score and Wilkin's score in rheumatic mitral stenosis: added value of cardiac CT
Authors: Eka Putra B , Atmadikoesoemah C , Soesanto A , Sahar E , Kasim M
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Wilkin's score, as one of the predictors used to determine the transcatheter or surgical approach may be lacking in objectivity because of potential inter-observer variability.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional pilot study was done to assess the correlation between Wilkin's score and Wilkin's Calcium score to the result of the Mitral Computed Tomography Calcium Score.

Result

Mitral computed tomography calcium score has moderate to strong correlation to Wilkin's calcium score (Correlation 0.738 (Strong correlation), p 0.01) and Wilkin's score (Correlation 0.626 (Moderate correlation), p 0.039). Two of the samples showed zero calcium ct score; however, they scored two in Wilkin's calcium score. Meanwhile, mitral computed tomography calcium score has a weak correlation to the mitral valve area (Correlation −0.294 (Weak correlation), p 0.38 – Statistically not significant). Instead, Wilkin's Calcium Score and Wilkins Score have moderate to strong correlation to the mitral valve area (Correlation −0.609 (Moderate correlation), p 0.047; Correlation −0.722 (Strong correlation), p 0.012).

Conclusion

Mitral CT calcium score may be incorporated or complement the Wilkin's Score to assess the viability of using percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) as the treatment of choice for mitral stenosis. This is a consideration that Mitral CT calcium score is free from inter-observer variability and thus becomes a gold standard to assess calcium content in the mitral valve.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.