bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1040 Unexpected prevalence of subtle systolic and diastolic dysfunction in genotype-positive phenotype-negative relatives of dilated cardiomyopathy patients
Authors: Paldino A , De Angelis G , Dal Ferro M , Faganello G , Porcari A , Barbati G , Korcova R , Gentile P , Artico J , Pinamonti B , Merlo M , Sinagra G
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

None

Background

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) and peak left atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) are promising techniques for the detection of a subtle systolic and diastolic dysfunction for an early diagnosis of genetically determined dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Purpose. We sought to evaluate the prevalence of subtle systolic and diastolic dysfunction by LV-GLS and PALS in a cohort of genotype-positive phenotype-negative (GPFN) DCM relatives. Methods. We analysed echocardiograms (including LV-GLS and PALS) of 41 GPFN relatives of DCM patients (GPFN group - 37 ± 14 years, 48.8% male). They were compared with a matched group of 52 healthy individuals (control group). Reduced LV-GLS and PALS were defined as >-18% and <23.1%, respectively, according to literature data. Results. GPFN and control groups were grossly similar according to standard echocardiographic measurements. Conversely, mean LV-GLS was -18.8 ± 2.7% in the GPFN group vs. -24.0 ± 1.8% in the control group (p < 0.001). 20 subjects (48.8%) in the GPFN group and no subjects in the control group had a reduced LV-GLS. The mean PALS was 29.2 ± 6.7% in the GPFN group vs. 40.8 ± 8.5% in the control group (p < 0.001). 7 subjects (18.4%) in the GPFN group and one (2%) in the control group had a reduced PALS. During a median follow-up of 27 months, 6 (14.6%) GPFN relatives developed a LV ejection fraction <50%. Among them, 4 (66%) had a reduced LV-GLS at initial evaluation. Conclusions. LV-GLS and PALS are impaired in GPFN relatives of DCM patients compared to healthy individuals, when standard echocardiographic parameters are normal. Further studies are warranted to add prognostic significance to this result, which may lead in the future to an early therapy initiation.

Abstract 1040 Figure. Mean LV-GLS and PALS in GPFN and control
1042 Assessment of left ventricular systolic function in obstructive sleep apnea with automatic function imaging and its relation relation with hypoxia
Authors: Chenyao M A , Sanderson JOHN , Mi L U , Hu L I U , Lei XIAO , Jie X U , Yongxiang W E I , Fang F
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

OSA & Subclinical myocardial impairment

Background

Early detection of left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction is crucial for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) . LV longitudinal strain (GLS), derived from automated function imaging (AFI) based on 2D echocardiography, provides a new tool to detect subclinical impairment of both global and regional myocardium. Its value in OSA remains unclear compared to traditional parameters since obesity is not uncommon in OSA, which may compromise the accuracy of AFI. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of AFI in OSA and further to explore the impact of OSA severity and degree of hypoxia on LV function.

Methods

Comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography was done in those receiving polysomnography (PSG) suspected as OSA consecutively (n = 322). All subjects were divided into 3 groups by apnea-hyponea index (AHI) by PSG (Control: AHI＜5; mild-to-moderate AHI 5-30; severe: AHI≥30) and GLS and mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) were compared among the 3 groups.

Results

322 patients with normal LVEF (≥50%) were finally analyzed. Though more segments were measured, inter- and intra- observer variability of GLS were comparable with MAPSE in a Bland-Altman analysis. For group comparison, GLS was reduced compared to the other 2 groups in the severe OSA category (p ≤ 0.001) while MAPSE showed no differences. Further analysis showed the feasibility of AFI was acceptable even in obese patients. In multivariable analysis of GLS, only maximum desaturation was an independent associated factor (p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Even in OSA patients with obesity, AFI-derived GLS is feasible. GLS is more sensitive than MAPSE or TDI for detection of reduced LV systolic function in OSA.

Control(n = 27) Mild-Mod OSA(n = 145) Severe OSA(n = 160) P-value Age(years) 43 ± 13 47 ± 12 46 ± 11 0.218 Males, n(%) 17(63.0%) 118(81.4%) 154(96.3%) ＜0.001 BSA(m2) 1.82 ± 0.18 1.88 ± 0.18 1.97 ± 0.17*† ＜0.001 BMI(kg/ m2) 24.7 ± 4.4 26.8 ± 3.7* 28.6 ± 4.2*† ＜0.001 LVEF(%) 66.5 ± 6.4 67.0 ± 5.0 66.7 ± 4.6 0.813 Sep S’(cm/s) 8.3 ± 1.7 8.4 ± 1.5 8.7 ± 1.9 0.256 Sep E’(cm/s) 9.5 ± 3.0 9.0 ± 2.4 8.2 ± 2.0*† 0.003 E/ E’ 9.2 ± 2.9 9.1 ± 2.9 9.8 ± 2.9 0.145 GLS(%) 19.1 ± 2.7 19.0 ± 2.5 17.9 ± 2.4*† ＜0.001 MAPSE(mm) 15.1 ± 2.5 14.7 ± 2.3 14.3 ± 2.2 0.302 *p＜0.05 compared with mild OSA patients, †p＜0.05 compared with moderate OSA patients Echo Comparison between 3 OSA Groups
1043 Association of left ventricular global longitudinal strain with myocardial perfusion evaluated by 13N-ammonia positron emission tomography in hemodialysis patients with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Yamabe S , Ito R , Sakakibara T , Yamada A , Ohshima S , Ozaki Y
Published: January 2020

Background

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is an echocardiographic marker to detect subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction prior to the appearance of reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Reduced GLS identified in patients with maintenance hemodialysis (HD) has been reported to be a predictor of their higher mortality and cardiovascular events. On the other hand, pharmacological stress 13N-ammonia positron emission tomography (13N-NH3-PET) has been an established and reliable imaging modality to evaluate myocardial perfusion expressed as coronary flow reserve (CFR) or maximal stress myocardial blood flow (MBF). CFR and MBF are powerful parameters to detect coronary artery disease and to predict cardiovascular events and mortality. However, association between GLS and those myocardial perfusion parameters are not fully understood.

Purpose：The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between GLS and the myocardial perfusion parameters of 13N-NH3-PET in HD patients with preserved LVEF.

Methods

We studied 24 HD patients (mean age 67 years, 67% male) who underwent ATP stress 13N-NH3-PET as well as transthoracic echocardiography including 2-dimensional speckle tracking imaging for suspected ischemic heart disease. Exclusion criteria were as follows: LVEF <50%, moderate to severe valvular diseases, and atrial fibrillation. Myocardial perfusion abnormality (MPA) was defined as CFR <2.0 and/or stress MBF <2.0.

Results

Mean GLS in all patients was -16.2 ± 3.6%. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on GLS: patients with reduced GLS (<-16%) (Group A, N = 11) and those with preserved GLS (≧-16%) (Group B, N = 14). There were no significant differences between 2 groups in age, gender, body mass index, left ventricular mass index, and average E/e’. Nevertheless, Group A had significantly lower stress MBF than Group B (1.7 ± 0.41 vs 2.0 ± 0.33, p = 0.031). In addition, Group A showed more frequent MPA compared with Group B (81.8% vs 42.9%, p = 0.043). There was a moderate correlation between GLS and stress MBF (r = 0.62, p = 0.0012), whereas no significant correlation was noted between GLS and CFR (r = 0.079, p = 0.71).

Conclusion

Reduced GLS was significantly associated MPA. MPA may be one of the major contributors to the reduction in GLS in HD patients with preserved LVEF.
1044 Simple echocardiographic scoring in screening for aortic stenosis by emergency physicians in the emergency department
Authors: Furukawa A , Abe Y , Miyaji T , Hatakenaka M , Naito M , Ageta K , Takeuchi S , Morizane A , Nishida T , Ito H
Published: January 2020

Background; Aortic stenosis (AS) is one of the important critical diseases and may influence hemodynamics in cardiovascular or non-cardiovascular emergency, however, there is no established methodology to diagnose AS in a focused cardiac ultrasound (FOCUS). We have previously reported that our developed visual AS score was a simple index for AS screening using rapid echocardiography and it could successfully diagnose clinically significant AS. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of visual AS score assessed by emergency physicians in the emergency department. Methods; Visual AS score was calculated as the sum of the scores of each three aortic cusp’s opening in a short-axis view scored as follows: 0 = not restricted, 1 = restricted, or 2 = severely restricted; and classified in 0 – 6 as we previously reported. Emergency physicians who did not specialize in cardiology or ultrasonography underwent basic 30 minutes training to visualize aortic valve in a short-axis view and to assess visual AS score beforehand. They performed echocardiography and evaluated visual AS score in emergency outpatients with suspected cardiovascular diseases such as chest symptom, consciousness disorder, abnormal vital signs, heart murmur or abnormal electrocardiogram in the emergency department. Then, another assessment of visual AS score and complete echocardiography including quantitative assessment of AS was performed by expert sonographers. Aortic valve area index (AVAI) was calculated using continuity equation and body surface area, and an AVAI > 0.85 cm/m2, 0.6 - 0.85 cm/m2, and < 0.6 cm/m2 were defined as none or mild, moderate and severe AS, respectively. Results: Sixty patients underwent evaluations of visual AS score by emergency physicians. Visual AS score could not be assessed in 5 patients and continuity equation could not be evaluated in 2 patients, both due to poor echocardiographic imaging quality. Visual AS scores assessed by emergency physicians and expert sonographers showed strong positive correlation (R = 0.94, P < 0.0001). Fourteen patients (26 %) including 6 with shock or hypotension, 3 with congestive heart failure, 2 with syncope, 1 with acute myocardial infarction, 1 with suspected cardiac tamponade and 1 with abnormal electrocardiogram had moderate or more degree of AS in complete echocardiography performed by expert sonographers. Visual AS score 3 or more assessed by emergency physicians had 86 %, 100 %, 100 % and 95 % of a diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value, respectively. Conclusion: Visual AS score in FOCUS is useful to screen for AS for emergency physicians who do not specialize in cardiology.
1046 Prognostic value of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Bouttier A L , Jobbe-Duval A , Cueff C , Piriou N , Jaafar P , Pattier S , Capoulade R , Warin-Fresse K , Senage T , Serfaty J M , Roussel J C , Le Tourneau T
Published: January 2020

Background Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a frequent pathology that can be complicated by mitral regurgitation, heart failure, rhythm disorders, arterial embolism and death. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic interest of ventricular volumes, right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging on cardiovascular morbi-mortality in a cohort of patients with MVP

Methods We examined the prognostic value of CMR imaging in 237 patients with MVP (no to severe mitral regurgitation) included between 2010 and 2019. All patients underwent a comprehensive echocardiography. The main endpoint was a composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, heart failure, new onset atrial fibrillation, arterial embolism.

Results Among the 237 patients (63% male), 97 (41%) had LGE (75 myocardial wall, 10 papillary muscle tip and 12 both locations). Factors associated with LGE in multivariable analysis were age (OR 1.02, P = 0.037), left ventricular (LV) mass (OR 1.01, P = 0.008) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PAPS, OR 1.02, P = 0.069). Follow-up was censored at the time of surgery or percutaneous repair. In univariate analysis NYHA class, LV mass, left atrial volume, PAPS, LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, chordal rupture and MR degree were associated with outcome. RVEF and biventricular dysfunction (LV EF < 60% and RV EF < 40%) were also associated with impaired event-free survival (36.0 ± 17.0% vs 65.4± 5.8%, P = 0.019). Finally, LGE was associated with a decreased event-free survival (55.6 ± 9.9% vs 70.7± 6.9%, P = 0.002). In multivariablee analysis, moderate to severe mitral regurgitation (HR : 2.14 [1.44-3.19], P < 0.0001) and the presence of LGE were predictors of impaired event-free survival (HR : 2.12 [1.08-4.16], P = 0.003).

Conclusion CMR imaging provides additional prognostic information to echocardiography in the study of MVP. Myocardial fibrosis of the left ventricle and right ventricular function as assessed by CMR imaging are predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in MVP.
1100 When multimodality imaging is needed to understand the etiology of diffuse negative t waves
Authors: Giuca A , Bica R , Rosca M , Stanciu S , Popescu B A , Jurcut R
Published: January 2020

Introduction

We present the case of a 50 year old woman, active smoker, hypercholesterolemic, nondiabetic, with normal body mass index, referred to our cardiology department for atypical chest pain and ECG changes (diffuse negative T waves in V1-V6, DII, DIII) (Panel A), also present on a resting ECG recorded 4 years previously.

Purpose

To highlight the fact that even though the most frequent cause of negative T waves remains coronary artery disease (CAD), the cause could be related to other more rare medical conditions.

Methods

After clinical examination and ECG, 2D echocardiography was performed. It revealed a normal sized left ventricle (LV) with perserved global and regional function, normal global longitudinal strain, nondilated atria and no significant valvular disease. The subcostal view suggested a hypertrophied right ventricle (RV) free wall (10 mm thickness, with apparent homogeneous echogenicity) (Panel B, arrow), with normal longitudinal function and no regional wall motion abnormalities.

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was performed for a better tissue characterization. The CMR examination found normal cardiac cavities, normal wall thickness of both ventricles (RV free wall of 3 mm), no late gadolinium enhancement, but described a large amount of fat with concentric disposition, maximum thickness of 9 mm anterior of RV, 3 mm posterior of LV (Panel C).

Since this was not fully explaining the ECG changes and the patient presented with a low-intermediate pretest probability for CAD, an angio-CT coronary scan was performed and showed a calcium score of 7 AU, no significant coronary atherosclerosis, and a hypoplastic circumflex artery (Panel D, arrow). A total volume of 149 ml. of pericardial fat was measured (Panel E).

Stress echocardiography was performed with maximal workload achieved (145 bpm, 85% predicted, 100 W); no chest pain was reported, no regional wall motion abnormalities were seen and there was normal contractile reserve.

Results

Using multimodality imaging a differential diagnosis was followed, which included: arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (negative T waves, apparent changes of RV free wall on echo, but no family history of sudden cardiac death), CAD (atypical angina, cardiovascular risk factors, negative T waves), and pericarditis (but negative inflammatory markers, no pericardial fluid). The final hypothesis is that the ECG changes are related to the abnormal pericardial adipose tissue deposit, which acts similar to pericarditis.

Conclusions

The present case report is, to our knowledge, the first to describe an association between large pericardial fat deposit and ECG changes, when other causes were excluded. Even if the current findings are benign, the patient should be followed closely, and risk factors should be thoroughly controlled, as several studies have shown that pericardial fat is associated with poorer cardiovascular prognosis

Abstract 1100 Figure. Multimodality imaging in our patient
1106 Twins with uncertain significant mutations, slightly different cardiomyopathies and different oucmes
Authors: Blasco Turrion S , Guillen Rodriguez I , Moruno Tirado A , Mendez A , Valverde Perez I
Published: January 2020

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is defined as left ventricle (LV) dilatation and dysfunction in the absence of abnormal loading conditions or coronary artery disease enough to cause global systolic impairment. It is the leading cause of heart failure and sudden cardiac death, and even in the early stages of life 5,7/1.000.000 children are diagnosed each year. Lately, genetic screening has revealed that 30-50% of the cases have a familial origin, with a high genetic heterogeneity.

We present the case of a 4-month-old boy (case A) referred to our Hospital with high suspicion of dilated cardiomyopathy. He had a twin brother, pregnancy went without complications, pre-birth ultrasound and blood tests were completely normal and a caesarean birth was planned at 37 weeks of pregnancy. He also has an older sibling with no medical history. Our patient was the first to be born and was admitted to the neonatal-ICU due to tachypnea, labored breathing and desaturation. In the physical exam a 5cm hepatomegaly was detected and on the X-Ray a cardiomegaly and enlarged mediastinum were confirmed. ECG showed no electrical abnormalities besides vague repolarization changes. A TTE was done, showing remarkable left cavities enlargement with severe left ventricle dysfunction and moderate mitral regurgitation, comprising the right filling and therefore the right cardiac output. These findings were confirmed by MRI, not detecting enhancement patterns compatible with myocarditis. A genetic test was performed in the index case detecting the presence of a mutation in the desmin gene (Des C.568 + 10c) and the myosin heavy chain 7 gene (Myh7p - glu883Ala) both associated either with dilated and noncompaction cardyomiopathies. Due to the elevated chances of a familiar-DCM his twin brother was admitted to study (case B), with no symptoms or clinical signs besides an isolated bronchitis episode. The clinical examination and EKG were normal, detecting in the TTE a slightly dilated left ventricle with non-compactation morphology in the LV lateral wall, but no left ventricle dysfunction. Also, a TTE was performed in their father with similar findings: mild LV dilatation with minor systolic disfunction and uncertain non-compactation morphology in the LVl apex.

Abnormalities of specific genes are now known to be responsible for different types of congenital heart diseases with important implications in genetic counseling. We want to emphasize the different manifestation of a single mutation on different members of a family, even in this two twin-brothers that, under the same probable conditions during preganancy, had slightly different cardyomyopathies but very different severity, and probable mid to long term prognosis.

Abstract 1106 Figure.
1112 Discovering the origin of a mysterious heart cavity
Authors: Vidal Urrutia V , Garcia Gonzalez P , Perez Bosca J L , Escribano Alarcon D , Simon Machi J M , Gradoli Palmero J , Abdala Lizarraga J , Fernandez Diaz C , Vano Bodi J , Sanchez Alvarez S , Cardenas Tealdo J P , Paya Serrano R
Published: January 2020

Left atrial appendage aneurysm is an infrequent cardiac malformation, with less than 150 cases reported in the literature. It is a congenital anomaly in the majority of cases, related to a dysplasia of pectinate muscles and atrial muscle bands, which tends to grow with age. At the present time, and despite of being not considered in current guidelines, surgical resection is the standard of treatment in the current literature, even in asymptomatic cases, based on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality by predisposing to atrial tachyarrhythmia, thromboembolism, and other rare conditions as coronary or left ventricular compression and rupture of the aneurysm.

We report the case of a 53-year-old male patient presenting an episode of supraventricular paroxysmal tachycardia with the casual finding of a mysterious cavity in the transthoracic echocardiography. We found out the presence of a 50 mm cavity adjacent to the left atrium and left ventricle, with a bidirectional blood flow between the left atrium and the cavity when applying Doppler color and with contrast echocardiography.

Given this finding, several differential diagnosis had to be considered, including vascular and structural disorders. In order to clarify the diagnosis, a cardiac magnetic resonance was performed. It revealed the presence of a huge aneurysm of the left atrial appendage (50 x 53 mm) causing a mild compression of the left ventricle, with no thrombus and no other significant findings.

Due to its size, the compression of the left ventricle and the history of atrial arrhythmia we decided to manage it with an invasive approach by performing a middle thoracotomy, in order to prevent potentially serious complications.

Abstract 1112 Figure. CMR 3D reconstruction; echocardiography
1114 NSTEMI originated from an insulin injection needle
Authors: Kim J H
Published: January 2020

A fifty-eight-old previously healthy woman presented to the emergency department with chest pain radiating to the retrosternal area on her way to work. Initial ECG showed no ST-T segment change, but the troponin level was elevated.

Urgent coronary angiography demonstrated normal coronary arteries. Ergonovine provocation was also undergone, and no coronary spasm was provoked. During angiography, a fine mobile artifact near the distal portion of left anterior descending artery was observed (Figure A and B, yellow arrow). Her chest wall was fully clear without recent injury. She didn"t receive any acupuncture treatment or is not an intravenous drug user. She is a factory worker making insulin injection needle.

Echocardiography showed a hyperechogenic sharp foreign body penetrating interventricular septum with color jet (Figure C and D, yellow arrow). No pericardial effusion was observed.

She underwent surgery to remove the foreign object. A fresh fine needle approximately 23 mm-long was entirely removed without extensive dissection under fluoroscopic guidance (Figure E and F).

Her symptom was fully resolved after removing the needle and she discharged without further event.

Abstract 1114 Figure.
1165 Anomalous origin of the coronary artery arising from the opposite sinus: clinical impact and prognosis
Authors: Vallejo Garcia V , Martin Garcia A C , Blanco Fernandez F , Martin Garcia A , Castro Garay J C , Sanchez Fernandez P L
Published: January 2020

Anomalous origin of the coronary artery arising from the opposite sinus (ACAOS) is an infrequent congenital heart disease (CHD). Clinical presentation is variable and there is controversy over its treatment in relation to the affected coronary artery and the type of path. Our objective was to analyze the anatomical characteristics of ACAOS, their clinical impact and prognosis.

We selected all patients with diagnosis or confirmation of diagnosis of ACAOS by computerized tomography (CT) in our center between 2014-2019, excluding complex CHD. Their baseline characteristics, tests for ischemia and follow-up were analyzed.

40 patients were diagnosed of ACAOS, and 26 had a simple coronary anomaly (mean age 54 years, 65% male). The most prevalent ACAOS was the right coronary artery (47%) followed by left main (27%). 42% had an inter-arterial path. Figure. Atherosclerosis on the ACAOS was similar to native arteries (p= >0,05). 11 of 18 (61%) patients with follow-up in our center had ischemia testing (23 tests). Only 22% were positive. 6 patients had a revascularization procedure (3 surgical, 3 percutaneous) and 83% included an intervention on the ACAOS. During follow up there were 13 major cardiovascular events (MACE). We observed a tendency to a higher number of MACE in patients with an interarterial path, although it was not statistically significant (p = 0,06). One patient died of a non-cardiac cause during follow-up. Only 4/18 patients (22%) had follow-up in the Adult CHD clinic.

In our population ACAOS did not have statistically significant differences in the development of atherosclerosis compared to native arteries, tests for ischemia were mostly negative but there was a significant number of MACE so it is necessary to implement patient follow up in the specialized Adult CHD clinic.

Baseline characteristics Hypertension 8 (35%) Type II diabetes mellitus 5 (22%) Dyslipidemia 9 (31%) Smoking history 10 (46%) Alcohol abuse 5 (22%) Previous symptoms 20 (80%) Ischemia on complementary tests 1 (8%) Diagnosis by coronariography 5/26 (19%) Diagnosis by computerised tomography 21/26 (81%) Anomalous artery atherosclerosis Moderate to severe atherosclerosis 10/26 (38,5%) 5/10 (50%) Native artery atherosclerosis Moderate to severe atherosclerosis 11/26 (42,3%) 6/11 (54,6%)

Abstract 1165 Figure.
1173 Additional role of FFRct and stress CT perfusion in the management of patients with stable chest pain compared to cCTA alone
Authors: Baggiano A , Guglielmo M , Muscogiuri G , Fusini L , Del Torto A , Andreini D , Mushtaq S , Conte E , Annoni A D , Formenti A , Mancini E , Guaricci A I , Bartorelli A L , Pepi M , Pontone G
Published: January 2020

Background

Computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRCT) and stress computed tomography perfusion (stress-CTP) are new techniques that combine anatomy and functional evaluation to improve assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) using coronary computed tomography angiography (cCTA).

Purpose

This study sought to determine the effect of adding FFRCT and stress-CTP to cCTA alone for assessment of lesion severity and patient management of patients

referred for chest pain.

Methods

289 patients with stable chest pain scheduled for clinically indicated invasive coronary angiography (ICA) plus invasive FFR were evaluated with cCTA, FFRCT, and stress-CTP. Of 289 patients, 147 underwent static stress-CTP, while 142 were evaluated with dynamic stress-CTP.

Management plan with optimal medical therapy (OMT) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for each patient according to results of each non-invasive technique was recorded, and then compared to what effectively applied according to results of reference standard technique (ICA + FFR). The primary endpoints for the study were the correct allocation of patients to OMT or PCI using cCTA, cCTA + FFRCT and cCTA + stress-CTP, and the correct assessment of non-invasive techniques for all three vessels in relation to angiographically and FFR-defined significance.

Results

Compared to cCTA alone, the addition of FFRCT and stress-CTP to cCTA alone increased the agreement in allocating patients to OMT from 24% to 38% and 44%, respectively, while the addition of FFRCT and stress-CTP to cCTA alone increased the agreement in allocating patients to PCI from 29% to 32% and 36%, respectively. Using ICA + FFR as standard reference, cCTA showed agreement for all three vessels in 56% of patients, while combined approaches of cCTA + FFRCT and cCTA + stress-CTP showed agreement in 66% and 82% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions

The addition of functional assessment with FFRCT or Stress-CTP to cCTA has a substantial effect on the evaluation of the relevance of coronary artery disease and therefore on the management of patients compared to cCTA alone.
1176 Coronary inflammation by CT peri-coronary fat attenuation in MINOCA and Tako-Tsubo syndrome
Authors: Gaibazzi N , Martini C , Botti A , Pinazzi A , Bottazzi B , Rendina R , Palumbo A A
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

Nothing to declare

OnBehalf

None

Background

Peri-coronary fat attenuation index (pFAI) has emerged as a clinical marker of coronary

inflammation, which is measurable from standard coronary CT angiography (CCTA). It compares

well with gold-standard methods for the assessment of coronary inflammation and can predict future

cardiovascular events. pFAI could prove invaluable to differentiate an inflammatory from noninflammatory coronary artery status, helping unravel the mechanisms subtending an event classified as myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) or Tako-Tsubo syndrome (TTs).

Methods and Results

Patients admitted with MINOCA and TTs diagnosis between 2011 and 2018,

who had both CCTA and CMR performed during or shortly after the acute phase, were selected and

pFAI measured in their index CCTA. pFAI was also measured in a control subjects who had CCTA

for atypical chest pain work-up, no obstructive coronary artery disease found in their CCTA and no

cardiac events at a minimum 2-year follow-up.

In the n = 106 MINOCA/TTs patients selected, mean pFAI averaged for the 3 coronary arteries was -68.37 ± 8.29 vs -78.03 ± 6.20 in the n = 106 controls (p < 0.0001) and the statistical difference was

confirmed also when comparing mean pFAI in each single coronary artery between MINOCA/TTs

and controls (p < 0.0001). Non-obstructive coronary plaques at CCTA, and high-risk plaques in

particular, were also more frequently found (p < 0.01) in the MINOCA/TTs group compared with

controls.

Conclusions

In MINOCA and TTs patients, CCTA is not only able to detect otherwise angiographically invisible atherosclerotic plaques, but its diagnostic yield can be further expanded using the simple off-line measurement of pFAI for the characterization of peri-coronary fat tissue. In MINOCA/TTs mean pFAI clearly demonstrates higher values in comparison with controls, a finding which has been previously associated with coronary artery inflammation. We speculate that this newly-available diagnostic tool in the future may help select patients for new therapies, for example therapies targeting coronary inflammation.

I was able to build a table.

Abstract 1176 Figure.
1178 High coronary wall shear strain developed more vulnerable plaque compared to low shear strain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bajraktari A B , Bytyci I B , Elezi S E , Henein M Y H
Published: January 2020

Background and Aim

Arterial wall strain has been proposed to impact the features of developed plaques. The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the impact of different types of wall shear strain (WSS) on the changes of vulnerable plaque in coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed-Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Central Registry, from 1989 up to May 2019 in order to select clinical trials and observational studies, which assessed the relationship between WSS measured by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and morphology of plaque in CAD.

Results

In 7 studies, a total of 724 patients with 32,083 segments were recruited, with mean follow up 8.4 months. The pooled analysis showed that low WSS was associated with larger baseline lumen area WMD 2.55 [1.34 to 3.76, p < 0.001], smaller plaque area WMD -1.16 [-0.1.84 to -0.49, p = 0007] and necrotic core area WMD -0.45 [-0.78 to 0.14, p = 0.004], dense calcium score WMD -0.18 [-0.46 to 0.10, p = 0.01], and fibrous area WMD -0.79 [-1.84 to 0.30, p = 0.02] as well as smaller fibro-fatty area WMD -0.22 [-0.57 to 0.13, p = 0.02] compared to high WSS.

At follow-up, the high WSS had regression of fibrous area, WMD -0.12 [-0.22 to -0.02, p = 0.02] and fibro-fatty area WMD -0.11 [-0.23 to -0.01, p = 0.04], reduction of plaque area WMD -0.09 [-0.17 to -0.02, p = 0.01] and increased dense calcium WMD 0.08 [0.02 to 0.14, p = 0.006] and necrotic core area WMD 0.07 [0.01 to 0.13, p = 0.03] compared to low WSS (Figure 1). The high WSS developed more profound remodeling compared to low WSS (40 vs. 18%, p < 0.05) with more constructive remodelling with low WSS (78%vs. 40 %, p < 0.01). Conclusions. Baseline high WSS is associated with higher necrotic core, calcium, fibrous and fibro-fatty area compared with low WSS, and during follow up the high WSS resulted in the development of more profound remodeling compared with low WSS. These findings highlighted the role of IVUS in detecting the vulnerable plaque in CAD.

Abstract 1178 Figure 1. Mean change of plaque morpholo
1180 2D and 3D assessment of the left ventricle volume and ejection fraction in a general population
Authors: Ericsson F , Tayal B , Hay Kragholm K , Zaremba T , Holmark Andersen N , Mogelvang R , Hagendorff A , Soegaard P
Published: January 2020

Introduction

In standard practice, LV volumes and EF are estimated by 2D technique. 3D echocardiographic assessment seems more reliable; however, this method has not yet been validated in the general population.

Purpose

To validate 3D echocardiography in a large population sample and investigate differences between 2D and 3D LVEF and volumes

Methods

In The Copenhagen City Heart Study, 4466 echocardiograms were available for analysis. The echocardiograms were obtained during four consecutive heartbeats in both 2D and 3D with GE Vivid E9. Offline analysis was performed on EchoPac v. 201. LVEF was calculated by the modified Simpsons Biplane Auto EF for 2D and by the 4LVQ method for 3D.

Results

The study included 2090 echocardiograms. The mean 2D LVEF was 57.3 ± 6.1% (IQR 54 - 61%) and 51.7 ± 7.9% (IQR 47 - 57%) by 3D. The mean end-diastolic volume (EDV) and end-systolic volume (ESV) by 2D and 3D techniques were: EDV 2D 106.1 ± 29.6 ml vs EDV 3D 128.2 ± 32.3 ml , ESV 2D 45.7 ± 15.6 ml vs. ESV 3D 45.7 ± 20.7 , p < 0.05 among all variables.

The average difference of means between 2D and 3D LVEF was 5.6 ± 11.2%, -22.1 ± 56.8 ml for EDV, and -16.9 ± 32.9 ml for ESV.

The correlation coefficient for LVEF was 0.42, EDV 0.76 and for ESV 0.70.

Conclusion

In our study, we found a significant difference in both LVEF and ventricular volumes when comparing 2D echocardiograms with 3D. 3DE had, in general, lower LVEF, higher EDV and ESV compared to 2D.

Table 1: Summary of results Table 1 - Summary of results n = 2090 Variable Min Max Mean IQR (25-75) p-value LVEF, 2D (%) 18 76 57.3 ± 6.1 54-61 < 0.05 LVEF, 3d (%) 13 77 51.7 ± 7.9 47-57 < 0.05 EDV, 2D (ml) 13 275 106.1 ± 29.6 85-123.8 < 0.05 EDV, 3D (ml) 50 270 128.2 ± 32.3 106-148 < 0.05 ESV, 2D (ml) 15 150 45.7 ± 15.6 35-54 < 0.05 ESV, 3D (ml) 13 185 45.7 ± 20.7 48-74 < 0.05 LVEF: left ventricle ejection fraction, EDV: end-diastolic volume, ESV: end systolic volume, IQR: Inter-quartile range

Abstract 1180 Figure 1: Correlation and BA-plot
1230 The atrial stiffness index in hypertensive women with indeterminate diastolic function
Authors: Kolesnyk M Y , Sokolova M V
Published: January 2020

Background

Despite new 2016 ASE/EACVI guidelines on diastolic function (DF), there is still significant amount of patients with indeterminate results. The left atrial (LA) longitudinal strain could provide additional information in case of inconclusive results. Recenty, a new LA stiffness index was proposed as ratio between E/e" and LA global longitudinal strain (GLS). The purpose of this study was to test the diagnostic utility of LA stiffness index in hypertensive women with inderterminate DF.

Methods

The study enrolled 100 postmenopausal women (mean age 57 ± 4 years) with uncomplicated arterial hypertension, divided into 3 groups (normal DF, indeterminate DF, diastolic dysfunction). The DF was assessed with both 2009 and 2016 ASE/EACVI algorithms. LA longitudinal strain was measured as peak of deformation curves with R-wave variant of ECG triggering. The LA GLS was measured by averaging 12 segmental values. The atrial stiffness index was calculated as E/e" ratio to LA GLS.

Results

The prevalence of indeterminate DF was higher with assessment by 2016 algorithm (53 % vs 38 %). The E/e" ratio was significantly increased in patients with indeterminate DF compared to normal function (Table). LA GLS was decreased only in patients with inconclusive resuts by 2009 algorithm. LA stiffness index was increased gradually according to diastolic abnormalities severity. The significant difference between three groups was only found with categorization of patients by 2016 algorithm.

Conclusions

The novel LA stiffness index could be additional parameter of DF assessment in case of indeterminate results. However, it needs further validation in simultaneous echo-invasive studies.

LA mechanics in diastolic dysfucntion Parameter Normal diastolic function Indeterminate function Diastolic dysfunction p 2009 guidelines Prevalence, % 31 38 31 E/e" ratio 8,07 (7,36-9,6) 9,91 (8,44-11,6)* 11 (10,52-13)*^ p < 0,0001 LA GLS, % 34,8 (30,2-39,9) 30,8 (26,5-34,9)* 28,9 (24,2-36)* p = 0,028 LA stiffness index 0,24 (0,18-0,31) 0,32 (0,27-0,39)* 0,37 (0,31-0,46)* p < 0,0001 2016 guidelines Prevalence, % 40 53 7 E/e" ratio 8,8 (7,74-10,1) 10 (8,6-11,7)* 14 (12-14,9)*^ p < 0,0001 LA GLS, % 34,2 (28,4-39,1) 30,8 (26,5-34,8) 29,6 (25,1-37,8) p = 0,18 LA stiffness index 0,27 (0,2-0,34) 0,33 (0,27-0,4)* 0,47 (0,38-0,59)*^ p = 0,001 The values are given as median and interquartile range. * - compared to normal function ^ - compared to indeterminate result
1231 Left atrial septal and lateral wall strains contain different pressure information: Utility in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Khan F H , Inoue K , Andersen O S , Gude E , Skulstad H , Smiseth O A , Remme E W
Published: January 2020

Funding Acknowledgements

South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority

Background

Reduced left atrial (LA) reservoir strain is a marker of elevated LA pressure. Thus it could be a potential non-invasive marker to differentiate pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (PH) as the latter is defined by elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) > 15 mmHg. However, in pre-capillary PH patients with elevated right atrial pressure (RAP), the atrial septal geometry may be abnormal. This could lead to lower regional LA septal strain, making LA lateral wall strain more accurately reflect PCWP.

Purpose

We investigated if LA lateral wall strain can differentiate between pre- and post-capillary PH, and how LA lateral wall strain and LA septal strain are both affected by elevated RAP in pre-capillary PH. Furthermore we investigated if LA septal strain can be used in pre-capillary PH patients to identify those with elevated RAP.

Methods

We analysed 63 patients with PH, 28 pre-capillary and 35 post-capillary, who underwent right heart catheterisation. Echocardiography was performed simultaneously with or within 24 hours of the invasive pressure measurements. Regional LA septal strain and lateral wall strain were measured from the apical four chamber view.

Results

Pulmonary artery pressure was 39.5 ± 11.1 mmHg (mean ± SD) in the pre-capillary PH patients and 37.0 ± 10.1 mmHg in the post-capillary PH patients (p = ns). Mean PCWP was 9.9 ± 2.5 mmHg and 24.5 ± 6.0 mmHg (p < 0.001), respectively.

LA lateral wall strain was significantly lower in patients with post-capillary PH compared to pre-capillary PH (11.9 ± 7.7% vs 26.6 ± 9.9%, p < 0.001) (Fig. a,b). At a cut-off value of 18.0%, LA lateral wall strain could predict elevated PCWP > 15 mmHg with AUC = 0.88, sensitivity = 85.7% and specificity = 76.3%.

In the 28 patients with pre-capillary PH, we classified mean RAP ≥ 10 mmHg as elevated and < 10 mmHg as normal. Seven of these patients had elevated RAP and showed significantly reduced LA septal strain compared to the 21 patients with normal RAP (13.0 ± 6.2% vs 22.1 ± 7.6%, p < 0.01). LA lateral wall strain showed no difference in these groups of pre-capillary PH patients (25.8 ± 10.1% vs 28.9 ± 9.4%) (Fig. c).

Conclusions

LA lateral wall strain can be used for differentiating between pre- and post-capillary PH. In addition, LA septal strain may be used in pre-capillary PH patients to identify those with elevated RAP.

Abstract 1231 Figure
P1243 Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) of the aortic valve: incidental finding in hospitalized patients with advanced heart failure
Authors: Marin G G , Margineanu C , Penes D , Maresiu C , Boiangiu S , Stoica E , Radu R , Antohi E L , Chioncel O
Published: January 2020

Background

The presence of small mobile masses on the ventricular side of the aortic valves in the absence of valvular regurgitation and signs of systemic inflammation has been previously described as marantic endocarditis and is now referred to as nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE). It is thought to be associated with endothelial dysfunction and procoagulative status, as is the case of acute decompensated heart failure (HF).

Case description

We present a series of three male patients, with similar clinical characteristics, who were admitted for acute decompensated HF. All three patients had chronic HF, due to non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy with severe biventricular dysfunction, with resynchronization therapy, with elevated natriuretic peptides and previous HF hospitalizations in the past year requiring prolonged intravenous treatments. Other clinical, biological criteria for the definition of advanced HF were also met. All patients were under chronic anticoagulation treatment using a direct oral anticoagulant because of persistent atrial fibrillation. Thorough echocardiographic evaluation (both transthoracic and transoesophageal ultrasound) identified small mobile masses on the ventricular side of the aortic valves, centrally, on the line of cusp coaptation, with only minor central regurgitation. The lack of progression of valve lesion and the absence of gross signs of inflammation (no fever, normal hemoleucogram, normal CRP, repeated negative blood cultures) on serial examinations during several weeks follow-up allowed for the exclusion of infective endocarditis. In one case we also identified a left atrial appendage thrombus and presumably thrombotic masses attached to right side pacing leads. No clinically systemic embolic events were identified.

Conclusion

We consider this to be an incidental finding in the given subclinical prothrombotic and inflammatory predisposing milieu of advanced chronic HF and the increasing high quality echocardiography imaging. Its clinical significance is still unknown, while differential diagnosis from subacute or chronic endocarditis relies largely on clinical judgment.
P1249 Straight from the heart
Authors: Azul Freitas A , Ferreira J , Goncalves V , Ferreira C , Milner J , Bento L , Martinho S , Alves P , Marinho V , Jorge E , Goncalves L
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Infective endocarditis (IE) remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge and is still associated with high mortality. Systemic complications are frequently present, and an adequate assessment and management are needed.

Purpose

Our aim is to show the importance of an early recognition of IE complications.

Clinical case

We present a case of 54 years old women with a past medical history unremarkable. The patient presented to the hospital with high fever and was admitted with a diagnosis of a psoas abscess and staphilococus aureus bacteremia. After one week of antibiotic treatment the patient was transferred to an intensive care unit due to septic shock and respiratory failure. The patient needed to be intubated and ventilated and was on treatment with vancomycin and meropenem. During admission, several infectious loci were identified, including cerebral and pulmonar involvement. An echocardiography identified mild mitral regurgitation, moderate tricuspid regurgitation and confirmed the presence of two vegetations, one in tricuspid valve with 30mm and one in mitral valve with 5mm. Nevertheless, the patient improved clinically. After 15 days of treatment, the patient was extubated and was transferred to the cardiology ward for follow-up. Although clinically stable and without any complain, repeated echocardiographic evaluation identified left ventricular apical aneurysm and partial resolution of vegetations. A coronariography was performed and did not identified any coronary lesion. A magnetic resonance confirmed the ischemic aetiology of the lesions and a diagnosis of embolic myocardial infarction was made. Considering a good resolution of infection, and being the patient stable and asymptomatic, she was discharged after 6 weeks of antibiotic therapy for follow up in cardiology and neurosurgery consultations.

Discussion and conclusion

Despite appropriate antimicrobial treatment, embolic complications are common and usually develop during initial stage of IE. This case shows several embolic complications of IE, including embolic myocardial infarction and cerebral embolism. Although aggressive antibiotic administration was successful in this particular case and cardiac surgery was avoided, the identification of complications allowed a more strict follow up and was determinant for a good clinical result.

Abstract P1249 Figure.
P1251 Percutaneous closure of two mitral perivalvular leaks: when the imaging guides the hands during threatening complications
Authors: Cocco D , Melillo F , Pannone L , Ruggio A , Stella S , Ingallina G , Capogrosso C , Ancona F , Montorfano M , Agricola E
Published: January 2020

With the contemporary development of structural interventional cardiology the prevalence of perivalvular leaks (PVL) is expected to grow. Advanced multimodality imaging is necessary for the guidance of transcatheter closure of PVL. We describe the case of a 57 year-old woman who underwent transcatheter mitral PVL closure. Past clinical history included a lymphoma treated with chemio and radiotherapy. Six months before she underwent a surgical replacement of the aortic and mitral valves with two mechanical prosthesis for severe aortic and mitral stenosis. Because of the calcium burden in both the annuluses, undersized mitral valve prosthesis was implanted leading to the presence of two moderate mitral PVL. The patient subsequently required hospitalization for acute HF and hemolytic anemia and received multiple blood transfusions. TEE confirmed the presence of a large antero-lateral PVL and a small medial PVL (3D VCA 0,32 cm2 and 0,2 cm2 respectively, associated with reverse flow in the pulmonary veins) with an extension of 33% of the circumference of the prosthesis. The regurgitation was considered severe and a percutaneous closure was planned with 3D-TEE and fluoroscopy image fusion guidance. Under general anesthesia a transeptal puncture was performed and the medial leak was closed with two vascular plugs (6mm each). During the deployment of the plugs an intermittent blockage of the medial disk of the prosthesis was noticed, which resolved completely after the removal of the wires previously positioned for the engagement of the leak. The lateral leak was then engaged and a second plug (10mm) was advanced causing a discontinuous interference with the two disks. The direct interference with the lateral disk caused a blockage in the closing position (leading to moderate stenosis, medium gradient 7mmHg) and in the opening position (leading to a massive regurgitation). The medial disk was intermittently blocked in the closing position due to the bulky effect of the devices provoking a traction and displacement of the prosthesis towards the medial region of the valve. To avoid this interference the plug was released with a marked atrial protrusion. Notably, after the removal of the wires no malfunctioning of the disks was noticed and the mild residual shunts appeared further decreased. The procedure was considered successful and at follow-up no residual leak was found. The percutaneous closure of PVL is a safe and effective intervention. Multimodality imaging is essential for the diagnosis, planning and procedural guidance. The knowledge of possible complications is warranted for the achievement of an optimal result. This case clearly show the possibility of interference with the prosthesis and overestimation of residual leaks.

Abstract P1251 Figure. PVL closure:procedure and complications