bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the global work of the myocardium in myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation of various localization
Authors: Oleinikov V , Golubeva A , Golubeva A , Babina A , Babina A , Galimskaya V , Galimskaya V , Burko N , Burko N , Donetskaya N , Donetskaya N , Korenkova K , Korenkova K
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Purpose

To assess the degree of impairment of the global myocardial function of the left ventricle in different localization of myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation (STEMI) using speckle tracking echocardiography.

Methods

The study included 45 patients with primary STEMI aged 38 to 66 years (52.3 ± 7.4). Myocardial infarction was confirmed by ECG data, biomarkers (troponin T, CPK-MB) and by the results of coronary angiography with the presence of one infarct-related coronary artery in the absence of hemodynamically significant stenosis of other arteries. Echocardiography has been performed 7-9 days after STEMI on a Vivid GE 95 Healthcare ultrasound scanner (USA) using EchoPAC software version 202 (GE Healthcare). In the automatic mode, the indicators of myocardial work have been calculated: the index of global myocardial work (GWI, mm Hg%.), Global constructive work (GCW, mm Hg.%.), Global wasted work (GWW, mm Hg.%.) %.), global work efficiency (GWE,%). Statistical data processing has been performed using the Statistica 13.0 software package (StatSoft Inc., USA).

Results

Taking into account the localization of STEMI on the 7th-9th day, patients were divided into two groups: group 1, which included 29 patients (64.4%) with lesions of the anterior LV wall (LAD), group 2 - 16 patients (35, 6%) with LV posterior wall infarction (RCA and CA). The comparison of the indices of global myocardial work in the two groups, has found that the GWI in group 1 was 1219 [95% CI 1053.1; 1384.9] mm Hg%, in group 2 - 1550.8 [95% CI 1371.6; 1730] mm Hg%, (p = 0.02). The GWE parameter in group 1 was 88.2 [95% CI 85.5; 90.9]%, in group 2 - 94.3 [95% CI 92; 96.6]%, (p = 0.01). The GСW index had the following values: in group 1 - 1383 [95% CI 1205.1; 1560.9] mm Hg%, in group 2 - 1805.5 [95% CI 1576.2; 2034.8] mm Hg%, (p = 0.01). GWW in group 1 was 152.8 [95% CI 94.3; 211.3] mm Hg%, in group 1b - 73.3 [95% CI 47.6; 99.0] mm Hg%, (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Thus, the localization of STEMI is reflected in the indicators of myocardial function. LV anterior wall infarction has lower GWI, GWE, and GCW values and higher GWW values than posterior wall infarction.
The prognostic value of left atrial strain in patients with end stage renal disease on dialysis
Authors: Tsartsalis D , Kakiouzi V , Aggeli C , Giannou P , Karabela M , Petras D , Dimitroglou Y , Politarxou K , Raftopoulos L , Angelis A , Kastellanos S , Kalompatsou A , Xristofi A , Tousoulis D , Tsioufis K
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with higher incidence of cardiovascular death especially as the disease progresses and the patients undergo long term dialysis treatment (1). Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction evaluated by cardiac deformation measurements with speckle tracking echocardiography seems to have an important prognostic role in several different specific populations (2-4).

Purpose

Τhe prognostic value of strain analysis measurements, including the novel diastolic parameters such as left atrial (LA) strain, in patients with end-stage renal disease on dialysis (stage 5 CKD).

Methods

 67 patients (mean age 62.3 ± 11.8, 65.7% men) with stage 5 CKD (45 on hemodialysis and 22 on peritoneal dialysis) were enrolled in the study protocol. The mean duration of dialysis was 102.48 ± 84.98 months. Patients were submitted to a transthoracic echocardiogram at rest and dobutamine stress contrast echo (DSCE) protocol. Mean follow-up lasted five years.

Results

The majority of the study population had normal or mildly impaired systolic function with a mean LV ejection fraction 49.17% (±10.41) while 70% of the patients had impaired LV global longitudinal strain, (mean 14.35%, ±4.49). Regarding LA strain parameters the mean LA reservoir, LA conduit, and LA contractile reserve were 24.11%(±12.61), 10.56% (±5.88) and 13.60% (±9.15) respectively. Thus 50% of the population had impaired LA strain. DSCE was positive for ischemia in 55.7%. The 5-year cumulative event-free survival was 58.2% (±6.7), while 30% of major events happened during the first 2 years after DSCE (see Figure). Logistic regression analysis showed that of the various echocardiographic parameters LV ejection fraction, LV global longitudinal strain, and the conduit phase of LA strain were significantly associated with DSCE result and total prognosis (p = 0.009, p = 0.007, p = 0.05, and p = 0.005, p = 0.049, p = 0.043, respectively). The conduit element of LA strain notably was the strongest predictor among them(OR = 0.76 p = 0.05 and OR = 0.72 p = 0.043, respectively).

Conclusion

 Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is an important prognostic factor among patients with advanced CKD under long-term dialysis.  The novel echocardiographic parameters such as LA strain couldadd valuable information to the overall cardiac evaluation of this specific population. Abstract Figure.
Blood flow vortices adapt their behaviour to the presence of kent accessory pathway
Authors: Borrelli N , Di Salvo G , Ciriello GD , Grimaldi N , Barracano R , Fusco F , Merola A , Correra A , Colonna D , Palma M , Scognamiglio G , Russo MG , Sarubbi B
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Blood speckle imaging (BSI) is a new speckle-tracking-based technique for the evaluation of blood flow. Ventricular flow vortices have been studied in sinus rhythm in normal and dysfunctional hearts, however, data are lacking in patients with Kent accessory pathway (KAP) and short atrio-ventricular (AV) conduction.

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of left ventricle blood vortices in children with KAP.

Methods

Nineteen paediatric patients (age 7 ± 2.9 years) were included in the study: 13 patients with manifest KAP (KAP group) and 6 age and sex -matched controls with normal AV conduction (CTR group). A thorough echocardiographic evaluation with 2D, color doppler and BSI was performed in all the included patients. BSI was recorded in apical 3-chamber view with a 6S-D probe. Vortices characteristic were analysed during filling phase of the left ventricle. We focused on the anterior vortex generated by mitral valve, which persisted longer during the cardiac cycle and is assumed to contribute to optimizing cardiac function. A standard 12-lead ECG was also recorded for each child in KAP group to esteem KAP localization.

Results

According to Arruda criteria for KAP localization, all patients in KAP group manifested the accessory pathway in the septal region. All patients in CTR group presented one major anterior vortex during filling phase, while in KAP group 10 patients out of 13 (p= 0.009) lacked of this main anterior vortex, showing instead fragmented different vortices. There were no differences in term of left ventricle function (KAPg 59.8 ± 4.02% vs CTRg 59.0 ± 2.5%, p= 0.6) and global longitudinal strain (KAPg -18.6 ± 1.0% vs CTRg -19.6 ± 3.1%, p= 0.5) between the two groups.

Conclusion

In our preliminary analysis, in patients with septal KAP, blood vortices adapted their diastolic traces to the septal dyssynchrony showing a fragmented pattern. We speculate this fragmentation may contribute to impair the performance of the left ventricle. Abstract Figure. BSI in control vs patient with WPW
Assessment of left atrial strain reservoir in patients with ischaemic stroke: a case-control study
Authors: Vassaki M , Miaris N , Grigoraki E , Destounis A , Karakosta M , Barmpagiannis D , Kalesi A-E , Mitsiadis S , Katsillis N , Zampelis D , Maritsa D , Yiangou K , Theodosis-Georgilas A , Pisimisis E , Kasinos N
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background/Introduction

Left atrial (LA) function is considered a seperate marker of cardiovascular disease and its assessment with echocardiography strain analysis has been gaining interest lately. The association of LA characteristics with ischaemic stroke has not been fully understood.

Purpose

This is a case-control study aiming to identidy differences in LA reservoir strain between ischaemic stroke patients and healthy controls.

Methods

Consecutive ischaemic stroke patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction and sinus rhythm were enrolled in the study. Patients were assessed with 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (apical 4-chamber view) using longitudinal speckle-tracking technique. Non-parametric testing with Mann-Whitney U analysis (new procedure) was carried out to identify differences in the distribution of LA reservoir strain values within the patients group and the controls. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Sixty-six patients (44 males, 22 females) of a mean age of 49.97 years [minimum = 20, maximum = 61, standard deviation (SD)=8.90] were enrolled in the stroke group. The control group included 39 healthy volunteers (27 males, 12 females) of a mean age of 42.23 years (minimum = 19, maximum = 71, SD = 12.77). In the stroke group, the mean LA reservoir strain was 34.24% (minimum = 5.62, maximum = 71.88%, SD = 10.21%) and the median was 34.06%, whereas the mean and median values of control subjects were 42.84% (minimum = 24.20, maximum = 90, SD = 13.87%) and 39.59% respectively. Mann-Whitneu U analysis (new procedure) showed lower LA strain values in the stroke group (mean rank = 45.29, Mann-Whitney U = 778, p = 0.001) compared to controls (mean rank = 66.05).

Conclusion

Our study showed that ischaemic stroke patients on sinus rhythm at presentation had impaired LA reservoir strain compared to healthy adults. The role of speckle-tracking echocardiography in assessing LA function and predicting stroke needs to be further evaluated thorougly.

Figure

Mann-Whitney U testing (new procedure) of left atrial reservoir strain in the stroke group and in healthy controls. Abstract Figure.
Stress echocardiography with regadenoson for the assessment of perioperative cardiovascular risk in non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Fernandez Galindo M , Romero-Castro MJ , Garcia Robles JA , Anmad Shihadeh Musa LA , Fernandez Herrero I , Priego Rodenas A , Sanchez Sanchez V , Jimenez Lopez-Guarch MC , Corros Vicente C , Carbonell San Roman A , Arribas Ynsaurriaga F , Solis J
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

The most commonly used drug in pharmacological stress echocardiography (SE) for perioperative cardiovascular (CV) risk assessment is dobutamine. Its arrhythmogenic potential and the unpredictable hypertensive response in patients with vascular pathology, makes us often resort to other less accessible and more expensive techniques such as Cardio-MRI or SPECT. Regadenoson is emerging as a safe drug in the detection of myocardial ischemia, although its use has not yet been validated in SE.

Purpose

The objective is to assess the short-medium term prognosis in patients undergoing high-risk noncardiac surgery who undergo SE with regadenoson.

Methods

A unicentric retrospective observational study. We included a subgroup of 58 patients referred for detection of ischemia prior to high-risk noncardiac surgery who underwent SE with regadenoson during the years 2017-2020. No patient has had cardiological symptoms. The test was considered positive if it presented at least one of the following: wall motion abnormalities, electrocardiographic and/or clinical changes compatible with ischemia.  Patients were followed up in the immediate postoperative period (30 days), at 12 months and at 24 months, considering the presence of CV events such as admission for heart failure (HF), chest pain, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or CV death. It was compared the group with negative (NG) and the group with positive (PG) results.

Results

97% of the patients underwent vascular high-risk noncardiac surgery, 3% underwent other surgeries such as kidney transplantation or lung surgery considered high risk in the preanesthetic assessment. Twelve studies (21%) were positive and of these, only 2 patients underwent coronary artery bypass prior to surgery. The only CV event observed in this period was HF: in the NG 3 episodes were observed compared to 1 in the PG (p = 0.82), only in one of the events for HF was coronary angiography done that did not show coronary artery disease. The time to the NG event was a median of 90 [3-600] days versus 180 days in the PG.  The cumulative incidence (CI) of events in the NG in the immediate postoperative period (30 days post-surgery) was 2%, annual 4% and biannual 7%.

Conclusions

A SE test with negative regadenoson prior to high-risk noncardiac surgery presents a low CI of events in the immediate postoperative period and in the short-medium term. Abstract Figure.
Assessment of pulmonary circulation unit during exercise in patients with ankylosing spondilitis and sporiatic arthritis
Authors: Morvai-Illes B , Burcsar SZ , Monoki M , Varga A , Kovacs L , Balog A , Agoston G
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background  Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are chronic multisystem inflammatory disorders that present with articular and extra-articular features. Cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary disease are well-known and commonly reported extra-articular manifestations of AS and PsA.  The inflammatory process can induce respiratory complications, including chest wall restriction, significantly impacting patients" cardiorespiratory status.

We aimed to assess pulmonary circulation and right ventricle behaviour during exercise in patients with AS and PsA and to detect the possible effect of chest wall restriction on right heart function.

Methods  A total of 45 spondylarthritis patients were enrolled in the study (age 51.5 ± 12.3 years, 82.2% men): 27 of them were diagnosed with AS (20 of them had ankylosis at the time of the study), while 18 had PsA (2 of them in ankylosis). According to a standardized protocol, all subjects underwent resting and exercise stress echocardiography on a semi-recumbent cycle ergometer with an incremental workload up to the maximal tolerated workload. Basic echocardiographic measurements were taken, focusing on the right and left ventricular functions and the systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PASP) at rest, at 50 watts workload, and maximal exercise. During the examination, non-invasive blood pressure measurements, transcutaneous capillary oxygen saturation and continuous ECG recording were performed. 

Results PASP did not differ between the AS and PsA patients at rest (15.6 ± 6.7 mmHg vs 13.7 ± 8.3 mmHg; p = ns); however, PASP measured at the maximal workload was significantly higher among AS patients  (31.4 ± 15.9mmHg vs 21.6 ± 12.7mmHg; p < 0.05; Figure 1). PASP did not correlate with the age or the time that passed since the diagnosis. Parameters describing the left and right ventricular systolic and diastolic function did not differ significantly between AS and PsA patients at rest and peak stress. Comparing the LV diastolic parameters of ankylosing patients with non-ankylosing patients irrespective of the underlying disease showed significantly different values in peak E/e"ratio (8.9 ± 3 vs 7.4 ± 1.6; p < 0,05; Figure 2).

Conclusion  Exercise stress echocardiography is a promising diagnostic modality in autoimmune diseases. In AS patients, the chest wall restriction may results in elevation of PASP during the exercise. The noninvasive indice of left ventricular filling pressure increases significantly in patients with ankylosis in both groups, explaining the effect of the rigid chest wall on the left ventricular filling. Abstract Figure.  Abstract Figure.
Inconsistency in LVOT measurement between cardiac computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and 3D echocardiography
Authors: Kaly A , Aripov MA
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background. As a rule, cardiac computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are undertaken in the supine position, and in the majority of cases, the ideal position for echocardiography is the left lateral position with the left arm raised above the head. Changing the position of the body from supine to lateral shifts the apex of the left ventricle by 1.5 cm. At the same time, the base of the heart does not alter its position. We evaluated how altering body position can affect visualization of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT).

Aim. The purpose of this study is to examine was whether the changing of body position modifies the shape of LVOT.

Methods. The study enrolled 12 patients, 2 of them had aortic valve stenosis. All these patients underwent 3D echocardiography, for 5 patients cardiac computed tomography with intravenous contrast, and for 7 patients cardiac MRI was undertaken. The LVOT shape was assessed by measuring the long and short diameter and calculating its ratios.

Results. On the lateral positioning of the body, there was not observed any changes in the short diameter of the LVOT by cardiac CT and 3D echocardiography. However, the large diameter of the LVOT by cardiac CT and MRI is 1.27± 0.09 mm. In addition, on the supine position, this ratio was 1.24± 0.08 mm, p < 0.005.

Conclusion. An alteration in the shape of the LVOT, in particular, is due to the large diameter of the LVOT. The large diameter modifies the shape of LVOT without changing its area.
A comparison between left ventricular filling pressure two waves: end-diastolic and pre-a for the correlation with echocardiographic parameters
Authors: Barakat A , Alsaadi A,R
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Al-mouwasat University Hospital, University Heart Surgery Center Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic.

Background

left ventricular (LV) filling pressure has an important prognostic and therapeutic role. Echocardiography plays an essential noninvasive role in its assessment and diagnosis. Checking of the correlation between echo parameters and different LV filling pressure wave invasively measure may add a step forward in its diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.

Purpose

this study invasively measures left end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and left ventricular pre-a wave (LV pre-a wave) and validates the correlation of each wave with echo parameters obtained immediately before angiography.

Methods

124 patients who accepted to participate for this study underwent transthoracic echocardiography just before catheterization. E/A, Av E/e", lateral and septal e", TR. LAVI, S/D, AR-A and other parameters were obtained to validate and compare the correlation with LVEDP and LV pre-a wave.

Results

  Correlation of different echo parameters with LVEDP and LV pre-a wave are summarized in table.

Conclusion

Among these echo parameters of this study, there was a significant correlation between LVEDP and E, E/A, TR, S velocity, S/D, AR duration, AR-A duration and LVMI. LV pre-a wave had a significant correlation with LAVI, EF, FS, Av E/e", E velocity, A velocity, E/A, TR, S velocity, S/D, AR duration, AR-A duration, LVDd, RWT, LVDs and LVMI. LVEDP correlated more than LV pre-a wave with S velocity, S/D, AR duration, AR-A duration and LVMI. LV pre-a wave correlated more than LVEDP with TR and E velocity. E/A was equally correlated with LVEDP and LV pre-a wave. Abstract Table of results 1  Abstract Table of results 2
Deep learning based classification of left ventricular function from two-dimensional echocardiographic images
Authors: Thorben Gessert N , Oliveira L , Jin L , Wehle S , Prabhu D , Olivier A , De Craene M , Sun D , Waechter I , Eslami P , Mor-Avi V , Lang RM
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Philips Healthcare

Background. Echocardiographic quantification of left ventricular function (LVF) is mainly based on ejection fraction (EF) measurements, which relies on either manual or automated identification of endocardial boundaries followed by calculation of model-based end-systolic and end-diastolic LV volumes. Recent developments in artificial intelligence resulted in computer algorithms that allow fully automated detection of endocardial boundaries and measurement of LV volumes and EF. However, this methodology is prone to errors and inter-measurement variability. We hypothesized that a fully automated deep learning algorithm could be developed, which would accurately classify LVF while avoiding volume and EF measurements. This study was designed to test the accuracy of this approach.

Methods. Deep learning algorithm was developed (Philips Research) based on convolutional neural network (CNN) that uses as input dynamic sequences of apical 2- and 4-chamber echocardiographic views obtained without ultrasound enhancing agents. We used for CNN development a database of clinical DICOM studies: a training set of 14,427 studies with normal LV function and 6,135 abnormal, and a validation set of 2,898 normal and 1,081 abnormal studies, based on Philips IntelliSpace Cardiovascular (ISCV) codes found (defined by cardiologists) in the patients’ reports. The CNN was trained to automatically classify LVF into 3 categories: (1) normal, (2) mildly-to-moderately or moderately reduced, and (3) moderately-to-severely or severely reduced. In the validation set, the automated classifications were compared to those in the patients’ reports as a reference standard. Accuracy of the automated classification was tested using contingency tables, from which sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values (NPV, PPV) and overall accuracy were calculated for each category of LVF. Additionally, the area under ROC curve (AUC) was calculated to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the automated classification for each LVF category.

Results.  Automated classification of LVF showed high levels of diagnostic accuracy in identifying cases with LVF in all 3 categories, reflected by high AUC values: (1) 0.94, (2) 0.87 and (3) 0.97 (Figure), and overall accuracy of 0.84 (Table). 

Conclusions. Deep learning algorithm based on CNN allowed accurate automated classification of LVF, when tested on ∼4,000 clinical studies and compared to ISCV codes found in the patients’ reports. This novel fully-automated methodology may become a useful aid in the interpretation of echocardiographic images by providing the reader with a preliminary assessment of LVF. Abstract Figure.
Left atrial strain: a sensitive whistleblower lost in translation
Authors: Van Loon T , Van Osta N , Koopsen T , Lumens J
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO- ZonMw, VIDI grant 016.176.340 to J.L.) and the Dutch Heart Foundation (ERA-CVD JTC2018 grant 2018T094; Dr. Dekker Program grant 2015T082 to J.L.)

Background

Left atrial (LA) function measured by peak/reservoir strain (PLAS) has been shown to be of prognostic value in various cardiac pathologies, including heart failure (HF). However, the underlying mechanisms leading to reduced PLAS remain poorly understood.

Purpose

To investigate how various combinations of left ventricular (LV) systolic-, diastolic, and LA failure affect PLAS.

Method

The CircAdapt computational model of the human heart and circulation is used to simulate the abovementioned LV and LA substrates, starting from a healthy reference simulation. LV systolic failure was simulated by a 25% decrease of LV contractility and LV eccentric hypertrophy (simultaneous increase of LV wall mass and area by 30%). LV diastolic failure was simulated by increasing LV myocardial stiffness by 100%, impairing LV relaxation function (increasing relaxation time constant from 35ms to 60ms, and LV concentric remodeling (increasing LV wall mass by 30%). LA failure was simulated by a fully non-contractile LA myocardium.

Results

LV systolic failure was characterized by reduced LV GLS (21 to 12%) and LVEF (54 to 34%), with marginal increase in PLAS (42 to 46%; Figure top row, first vs second column). LV diastolic failure was characterized by reduced PLAS (42 to 23%; Figure first vs third and fourth columns) with LA dilation (i.e. peak LA volume: 50 to 80 ml). Furthermore, LV concentric remodeling increased LVEF (54 to 64%). LA failure led to LA dilation and reduction of PLAS, regardless of LV substrate. Lastly, LV diastolic dysfunction and LA failure did not affect LV GLS (Figure bottom row).

Conclusion

Simulations showed that acute LV systolic failure hardly affected PLAS, but predominantly decreased LV GLS and LVEF. On the contrary, both LV diastolic dysfunction and LA failure reduced PLAS, rather than LV GLS and LVEF. Hence, LA strain can be considered as a whistleblower sensitive to various LV and/or LA abnormalities, which may explain why it is a rather nonspecific diagnostic marker. Abstract Figure. LA and LV strain in various substrates
Left ventricular forces distribution in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Monosilio S , Filomena D , Sannino M , Birtolo IL , Cimino S , Tonti G , Pedrizzetti G , Benedetti G , Fedele F , Maestrini V , Agati L
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Hemodynamic forces (HDFs) are the forces exchanged between the blood and the myocardium. Estimation of their magnitude and alignment could be a novel marker of cardiac dysfunction.

Purpose

To describe left ventricular (LV) HDFs values and distribution in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and to compare them with those of a group of healthy controls.

Methods

A cohort of 26 non-ischemic patients with an initial diagnosis of HFrEF was enrolled. All of them underwent basal 2D echocardiography evaluation.  Off-line HDFs estimation using a dedicated software based on speckle-tracking echocardiography was conducted. HDFs were normalized for the LV volume and expressed as a percentage of the force of gravity. HDFs were assessed over the entire cardiac cycle, in systole and diastole, both in apex to base (A-B) and latero-septal (L-S) directions. The distribution of LV HDFs was evaluated by L-S over A-B HDFs ratio (L-S/A-B HDFs ratio). HDFs of HFrEF patients were compared with those of 24 healthy volunteers.

Results

HFrEF patients showed smaller values of A-B HDFs during the entire cardiac cycle (5,2 ± 1,24% vs 12,3 ± 3,6%; p = 0,001), in systole (7,2 ± 2% vs 16,6 ± 6,3%; p = 0,001) and diastole (3,3 ± 0,8% vs 7,1 ± 3,6%; p = 0,001). Moreover, comparing HFrEF subjects with healthy volunteers , the former had lower L-S HDFs during the entire cardiac cycle (1,6 ± 0,4% vs 2 ± 0,7%; p= 0,022) and in systole (1,6 ± 0,5% vs 2,3 ± 0,8%; p = 0,003), while in diastole they showed inappropriate high values of L-S HDFs (1,7 ± 0,6% vs 1,8 ± 0,9%; p = 0,999). Consequently, HFrEF patients had higher  values of L-S/A-B ratio during the entire cardiac cycle (32 ± 6,9 vs 15 ± 7,7; p = 0,001), in systole (23,5 ± 7,4 vs 14,7± 4,2; p = 0,001), but particularly in diastole (52 ± 10,8 vs 28 ± 13,6; p = 0,001), showing an important HDFs misalignment.

Conclusion

When compared with healthy controls, HFrEF patients presented intraventricular fluid alterations characterized by lower HDFs magnitude and a significant HDFs misalignment, especially in diastole. Further studies are needed to confirm these initial results and to assess the effects of therapy on these new parameters. Abstract Figure.  Abstract Figure.
Normative values of the mitral valve apparatus: a 3D multicenter WASE study exploring age and sex differences
Authors: Henry M , Cotella JI , Mor-Avi V , Investigators WASE
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

 The mitral valve (MV) is a complex and dynamic structure that can be best evaluated by 3D imaging. Recent advances in mitral percutaneous interventions have escalated the need for a more quantitative and comprehensive assessment of the MV. Understanding normal valve size, structure and function is essential for differentiation of healthy from disease states. 

Purpose

 Using data from the World Alliance of Societies of Echocardiography (WASE) normal values study, we aimed to determine how normative values for the MV apparatus vary across ages and sexes. 

Methods

 3D full volume data sets obtained with transthoracic echocardiography in 618 normal subjects (50% male) were analyzed using commercial MV analysis software (TOMTEC) to determine annular and leaflet dimensions and areas (Figure). The subjects were divided into groups by sex (301 men and 311 women) and by age: 18-40 years (N = 211), 41-65 years (N = 201) and >65 years (N = 206) to identify sex- and age-related differences. Inter- and intra-observer variability was assessed in a subset of 30 subjects and expressed as mean absolute difference between pairs of repeated measurements.

Results

 Compared to women, men had larger annular dimensions in both the anterior-posterior and anterolateral-posteromedial planes, as well as larger annular circumference and area, larger tenting size parameters, and larger leaflet length and area (Table, bottom left). Age-related differences in multiple parameters were statistically significant (Table, bottom right). Of note, sex- and age-related differences in most MV parameters were comparable to or smaller than the corresponding measurement variability (Table, top right). 

Conclusion

 This analysis of the WASE data provides normative values of the mitral apparatus size and morphology for male and female subjects. While sex- and age-related differences were noted, they need to be interpreted with caution in view of the associated measurement variability. Abstract Figure.  Abstract Figure.
Acute hemodynamic impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation in patients with severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Graziani F , Cialdella P , Lillo R , Locorotondo G , Genuardi L , Ingrasciotta G , Nesta ML , Bruno P , Aurigemma C , Romagnoli E , Calabrese M , Giambusso N , Lombardo A , Burzotta F , Trani C
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background. There are limited data about the intraprocedural hemodynamic study performed immediately before and after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Purpose. We aimed to evaluate the acute hemodynamic impact of TAVI in patients with severe AS and to investigate invasive and non-invasive parameters predicting all-cause mortality. Methods. A total of 245 consecutive AS patients undergoing TAVI were enrolled. Intraprocedural left heart catheterization (LHC) and echocardiogram before and after TAVI were performed. The clinical endpoint was the death for any cause. Results. LHC after TAVI revealed significant changes in aortic and LV pressures, including indexes of intrinsic myocardial contractility and diastolic function such as positive dP/dT (1128.9 ± 398.7 vs 806.3 ± 247.2 mmHg/sec, p˂0.001; Figure 1A) and negative dP/dT (1310.7± 431.1 vs 1075.1 ± 440.8 mmHg/sec, p˂0.001; Figure 1B). Post TAVI echo showed a significant reduction in LV end diastolic volume index (54.6 ± 18.4 ml/m2 vs 51.7 ± 17.5 ml/m2; p = 0.017; Figure 1C), improvement in left ventricle ejection fraction (from 55 ± 12 to 57.2 ± 10.5%, p˂0.001; Figure 1D) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (42.1 ± 14.2 vs 33.1 ± 10.7 mmHg, p < 0.001; Figure 1E). After a mean follow-up time interval of 24 months, 47 patients died. Post-TAVI aortic regurgitation (2- 3- 4+) at echocardiography was the only independent predictor of mortality (HR 4.43, C.I. 1,71 – 11,45, p = 0.002; Figure 2). Conclusions. LHC performed immediately before and after prosthesis release offers a unique insight in the assessment ofLV adaptation to severe AS and the impact of TAVI on LV, catching changes in indexes of intrinsic contractility and myocardial relaxation. Aortic regurgitation assessed by echocardiography was the only independent predictor of mortality in patients undergoing TAVI.

FIGURE LEGEND

Figure 1. A-B: Impact of TAVI on haemodynamic parameters: Box plot with median and interquartile ranges of positive dP/dT and negative dP/dT values pre vs post TAVI. C-D-E: Impact of TAVI on echocardiographic parameters: Box plot with median and interquartile ranges of left ventricular end diastolic volume index (LVEDVi), left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) values pre vs post TAVI.

Figure 2. Kaplan-Meier curves for survival showing that AR (2-3-4+) assessed with echocardiography had the strongest association with mortality. Abstract Figure 1.  Abstract Figure 2.
Normal flow, low gradient aortic stenosis - is LVOT the determinant?
Authors: Dias Claudio F , Santos M , Custodio P , Ferreira B , Quadrado M , Manuel A , Francisco AR , Neves B , Cruz I , Almeida AR , Fazendas P , Joao I , Pereira H
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Severe aortic stenosis is characterized for a high mean gradient (>40mmHg) and an aortic valve area (AVA ≤1cm2). These patients present with a lower mean gradient (<40mmHg) and area (AVA ≤1cm2). However, the treatment strategies focus on the population with a reduced indexed stroke volume (≤35mL/m2). There is less clarity concerning those with a normal stroke volume. An important determinant of the area and stroke volume is the LVOT diameter, which may have a significant impact in the classification of the severity. There is some literature supporting an expected diameter according to the body surface area.

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the population with normal flow, low gradient aortic stenosis, as well as compare the impact of the expected LVOT diameter in the classification of patients.

Methods

We present a retrospective study from all consecutive patients to whom an echocardiogram was performed in our hospital during the years 2017 and 2018 which meet the criteria for low gradient aortic stenosis. Comorbidities were analysed as well as echocardiographic variables to properly characterize aortic stenosis.

Results

A total of 79 patients met the criteria for normal flow, low gradient aortic stenosis with a valvular area ≤1cm2.  Mean age was 79.5 ± 8.6 years-old and 38% was male. The mean LVOT diameter was 2.11 ± 0.18 cm which correlated to a mean AVA of 0.88 ± 0.10 cm2. Should the LVOT diameter align with the expected diameter according to the formula [(5,7× BSA +12,1)/10], the mean LVOT diameter would be 2.18 ± 0.11 cm, which correlated to a mean AVA of 0.96 ± 0.22cm2. This represents a statistically significant difference in the value, with the expected diameter being 0.075cm higher than the measured (p = 0.002), which translates in a statistically significant higher AVA (+0.085, p < 0,001). With the above data, 31 (38.8%) patients would have been reclassified as moderate aortic stenosis, according to the recalculated AVA alone. Taking into account the indexed AVA, only 22 (27.8%) patients would be reclassified. 8 other patients (10.1%) would have been reclassified as low flow, low gradient aortic stenosis as the recalculated stroke volume would be lower than 35mL/m2.

Conclusion

This paper reminded us of the importance of an appropriately measured LVOT diameter, and the potential impact in reclassification of valvular heart disease. This is more important when the classification may alter our conduct. Other imaging techniques, such as transoesophageal echocardiogram or CT scan, may obviate the squared error of the LVOT measurement as well as account for the geometry of the LVOT, especially in dubious cases. Abstract Figure.
Relationship between right ventricular geometry and function parameters and tricuspid annuloplasty efficacy
Authors: Krivickiene A , Verikas D , Norvilaite R , Ereminiene E
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of untreated moderate and severe functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) eventually leads to heart failure and is associated with poor prognosis. Therefore, tricuspid annuloplasty (TA) is offered as a first-line treatment for significant functional TR. However, studies to investigate factors leading to recurrent TR after TA are still scarce.

AIM

The aim is to investigate the relationship between right ventricular (RV) geometry and function parameters and recurrent TR after TA.

METHODS

Prospective observational cohort study enrolled patients with moderate or severe functional TR caused by left heart valvular disease who underwent surgical tricuspid valve (TV) repair. The dominant pathology was severe mitral regurgitation. Patients with ischemic heart disease (assessed by coronary angiography) were excluded from the analysis. The current study included 60 patients with full sets of preoperative 2D and 3D echocardiographic parameters. Echocardiographic quantification included the following parameters: the RV and RA geometry, functional (velocity of the tricuspid annular systolic motion [S’] and RV fractional area change [FAC], tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE] and RV ejection fraction (EF)). The severity of TR was measured quantitatively according to the recent ESC guidelines. Patients were divided into two groups according to the outcomes of TA: effective (38 pts.) and ineffective (22 pts.) TV repair. Effective TA was considered if TR 1 year after surgery was mild, while ineffective – TR was moderate or severe (recurrent TR). The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS statistical software, univariate logistic regression was used.

RESULTS

In 60 patients of current analysis 67% were female, mean age was 67 ± 9 years. The odds ratio for risk of ineffective TA are shown in Table 1. Age, gender, body mass index, left ventricular (LV) functional, as well as left atrial parameters did not differ between effective and ineffective TA groups. When analysing echocardiographic parameters in univariate logistic regression, RV and RA geometry, TV annulus diameter had predictive value for ineffective TA. Preoperative effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) did not differ significantly between two groups (ineffective TA vs. effective TA; 31 [60] mm2 vs. 24 [17] mm2, p = 0.308 respectively). Meanwhile, none of the RV functional parameters were significant.

CONCLUSION

Recurrent moderate or severe functional tricuspid regurgitation after tricuspid annuloplasty is associated with preoperative tricuspid annulus size, RA and RV geometry, but not with changes of RV function. Abstract Figure.
Novel method of diastolic stress echocardiography during bottle-feeding for infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Iwashima S , Katuki J , Katuki J , Hayno S , Hayno S , Seki K , Seki K , Takahashi K , Takahashi K
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated the utility of diastolic stress echocardiography in evaluating diastolic dysfunction during exercise in adults. However, there have been no such reports in infants. This study determined whether measuring cardiac function using echocardiography during bottle feeding is a valid method of stress testing in infants with congenital heart disease.

Methods

The study population comprised 25 infants with congenital heart disease (Table 1). Echocardiographic measurements of the infants were taken during and after bottle feeding (Figure 1A). Active feeding (AF) was defined as the start of feeding during which the heart rate started increasing. End of feeding (EF) was defined as the time of completion of feeding during which the heart rate slowed down. The 25 infants were divided into two groups according to brain natriuretic peptide levels: less than 50 pg/ml (low group) and more than 50 pg/ml (high group). Cardiac function was compared between the groups using 2D speckle tracking analysis, and intraventricular pressure differences (IVPD) via color M-mode Doppler (Figures 1B and 1C) and 2D echocardiography. We compared the fractional change (FC%), defined as (AF and EF measurements)/EF measurements, between the two groups.

Results

Heart rate increased AF comparing with EF, significantly in both groups, the low group from 162 to 139 bpm; the high group from 152 to 140 bpm. The FC_IVPD was higher in the low group than in the high group (Figure.2). There were negative correlations between brain natriuretic peptide levels and the FC_IVPD (Figure 3). There were 4 cases were performed the intra-cardiac repair (ICR). In 2 cases, VSD and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) velocity were increased during feeding. Indication of ICR, VSD case was aortic regurgitation with aortic cusp prolapse, TOF case was RVOTO. In VSD peak velocity in 2 cases did not increase during feeding (Table2). Indication of

ICR, two VSD cases were moderate left to right shunt, or pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that stress echocardiography during bottle-feeding might be a substitute for diastolic stress echocardiography in infants. The VSD or RVOT peak velocity, and FC% in IVP D and IVPG are sensitive markers for cardiac function in infants with congenital heart disease. Abstract Table1  Abstract Figure.
Exercise stress echocardiography in paediatric and adolescent patients
Authors: Avesani M , Calvo G , Sabatino J , Sirico D , Castaldi B , Reffo E , Cerutti A , Biffanti R , Borrelli N , Piccinelli E , Fraisse A , Padalino M , Vida V , Di Salvo G
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

INTRODUCTION

Exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) is still underused in paediatric patients, and very little data is available for congenital heart diseases (CHDs).

PURPOSE

To describe the current application of ESE in our Paediatric Cardiology Departments.

METHODS

Data from patients who underwent ESE in our Centres, including baseline and under stress symptoms, vital parameters, ECG, and echocardiograms were retrospectively analyzed and compared, as well as clinical management plans formulated based on ESEs results.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients from Centre 1 (median age 16 years), including 87% of patients with CHDs, and 20 patients from Centre 2 (median age 11 years), mainly tested to rule out myocardial ischemia, were included. Among patients from Centre 1, 28 had previously been treated surgically, 6 percutaneously and 11 were under follow-up. Indications for ESE/patients’ native diagnosis are illustrated in the picture.

Centre 1: Exercise was maximal in 17 patients, with 2 of them having symptoms at the peak of exercise. It was stopped beforehand in 28 patients because of dyspnea (3) and muscle fatigue (25). No arrhythmia was detected. ESE was considered as positive in 14 patients; after that, 3 patients underwent percutaneous interventions, 2 underwent cardiac surgery, 3 received indication for cardiac catheterization, 4 for advanced cardiac imaging and 2 for exercise restriction and medical therapy.

Centre 2: Fifteen patients (75%) completed the exercise, and none of them developed symptoms. In the remaining 25%, exercise was stopped because of muscle exhaustion. No arrhythmia was detected, and all the ESEs were negative.

Comparing the cohorts, no significant differences in terms of ejection fraction were noticed at rest and under stress. Patients in cohort 1 were older (p = 0,002), they achieved lower average maximal heart rate (p = 0,0001), performed less lasting exercise (p = 0,05) and ESE was maximal less frequently (p = 0,005). Lastly, they had significant changes in clinical decisions (p = 0,004).

CONCLUSIONS

ESE is a feasible and promising technique in paediatric cardiology, particularly in children with congenital heart diseases, and could influence significantly clinical management plans. Abstract Figure.
An atrioventricular septal defect with an Ebsteinoid right atrioventricular valve
Authors: Hall S , Deri A , Delle Donne MG
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

The combination of an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) with an Ebsteinoid atrioventricular valve is incredibly rare with only a handful of cases being described in the literature (1, 2). In this poster we describe the diagnosis of this anatomy in a neonate born at our centre.

The baby was antenatally diagnosed with a chromosome 8p23.1 microdeletion which is associated with congenital heart disease and developmental delay (3). Although fetal echo had revealed a high suspicion of congenital heart disease, maternal BMI had prevented a precise diagnosis. The baby was born in good condition at thirty-nine weeks gestation weighing 2.4kg. She had been admitted to the neonatal unit where she was self-ventilating in room air with saturations above 90%. The echocardiogram was performed at one hour of age.

The initial echo revealed a normal atrial arrangement with the heart in the left chest and the apex pointing to the left. There was normal pulmonary and systemic venous drainage. There was a complete AVSD with sizeable atrial and ventricular components. The left atrioventricular valve was dysplastic with at least moderate regurgitation. The right atrioventricular valve was displaced caudally and rotated into the right ventricular outflow tract. The right atrioventricular valve was also regurgitant. The right ventricle above the displaced atrioventricular valve was atrialized with the true right ventricle limited to the outlet portion. The great arteries were normally related. The ventricular component of the AVSD opened into the sub-pulmonary area along with two smaller muscular ventricular septal defects.

These findings raised many clinical concerns including the insufficiency of the right ventricle to support a biventricular repair. Similarly, the severe left atrioventricular valve regurgitation precluded single ventricle palliative surgical techniques. After discussion between the multidisciplinary team and a second opinion sought from another centre, the family was counselled that this was a complex and life limiting form of congenital heart disease. Although surgical options were discussed with the family, the family opted for comfort care and the baby passed away at three weeks of age.

Image 1: A complete AVSD with an Ebsteinoid right atrioventricular valve displaced caudally (a) resulting in an atrialized right ventricle (b). In addition, the left atrioventricular valve which straddles the ventricular septum is severely dysplastic (c) and regurgitant (d). Abstract Figure. Image 1: An Ebsteinoid AVSD