bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suture-based vs. pure plug-based vascular closure devices for VA-ECMO decannulation
Authors: Scherer C , Theiss H , Istrefi M , Stocker T J , Kupka D , Luesebrink E , Hausleiter J , Hagl C , Massberg S , Orban M
Published: October 2022

Background

VA-ECMO is a valuable treatment option for patients in cardiogenic shock, but complications during decannulation may worsen the overall outcome. To date, no larger study has ever compared suture-based to pure plug-based vessel closure devices for VA-ECMO decannulation.

Purpose

The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of suture-based to pure plug-based vascular closure devices for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) decannulation for patients with cardiogenic shock.

Methods

In this retrospective study, the outcome of 33 patients with suture-based closure devices implanted between 02/2019 to 05/2020 were compared to 38 patients with plug-based closured device implanted between 06/2020 to 11/2021.

Results

Closure device success rate was 88% in the suture-based group versus 97% in the plug-based group (Figure 1, p=0.27). Median number of devices used was two for patients with suture-based closure device and 1 for patients with plug-based closure device (p<0.01). Severe bleeding was more frequent in the suture-based (21%) compared to the plug-based group (3%) (Figure 2, p=0.04). Ischemic complications occurred in 6% with suture-based and 5% with plug-based device (p=1.00). Pseudoaneurysm formation was detected in 3% in both groups (p=1.00). Application of the femoral compression system was required in 27% of patient with suture-based closure device and 11% of patients with plug-based closure device (p=0.13). No switch to open vascular surgery due to closure device failure occurred in both groups.

Conclusions

Based on our retrospective analysis, we propose that plug-based vascular closure should be the preferred option for VA-ECMO decannulation. This hypothesis should be further tested in a randomized trial.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
Use of mechanical circulatory support in patients with non-ischemic cardiogenic shock
Authors: Schrage B , Sundermeyer J , Blankenberg S , Graf T , Kirchhof P , Luedike P , Nordbeck P , Proudfoot A , Orban M , Skurk C , Tavazzi G , Thiele H , Winzer E B , Westenfeld R , Westermann D
Published: October 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate mechanical circulatory support (MCS) for the treatment of non-ischemic cardiogenic shock (CS).

Methods

Data from 1,030 consecutive patients with non-ischemic CS treated with or without MCS at 16 tertiary-care centers were retrospectively collected. The association between MCS and 30-day mortality was assessed in a 1:1 propensity score matched cohort.

Results

MCS was used in 406 (39%) patients. MCS treated patients presented with more severe CS (lactate 5.4 vs. 4.1 mmol/l, systolic blood pressure 80 vs. 83 mmHg, higher SCAI class) and with more disease modifiers (prior cardiac arrest 42.4 vs. 36.1%, mechanical ventilation 78.4 vs. 56.5%). After matching, 272 patients treated with were compared vs. 272 patients treated without MCS. MCS was associated with a lower 30-day mortality (hazard ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.60–0.98, Figure 1). This finding was consistent through all tested sub-groups except when ejection fraction was considered, indicating an association especially in patients with an ejection fraction ≤20%. Complications occurred more frequently in patients with MCS; e.g. severe bleedings (21.8 vs. 9.2%) and access-site related ischemia (6.6 vs. 0%).

Conclusion

In patients with non-ischemic CS, MCS use was associated with lower 30-day mortality as compared to medical therapy only, particularly in patients with a lower ejection fraction. This provides rationale for randomized trials to validate these findings.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
A novel echocardiographic risk score predicts prognosis in AL-amyloidosis
Authors: Geenty P , Sivapathan S , Stefani L D , Zada M , Boyd A , Kwok F , Thomas L
Published: October 2022

Background

Prognosis in light chain (AL) amyloidosis is largely determined by the severity of cardiac involvement. Conventional (Mayo) staging includes 1) hs troponin 2) N-terminal pro-beta natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) and 3)free light chain difference.

Methods

In a retrospective study of 75 AL amyloidosis patients referred to a quaternary amyloid clinic, all patients underwent comprehensive echocardiographic assessment. Echocardiographic parameters included left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, LV mass, diastolic function, global longitudinal strain (GLS) and indexed left atrial volume (LAVI). Mortality was assessed through review of clinical records.

Results

Over a median follow up of 51 months, 29/75 (39%) of patients died. LAVI, E/e', e', LVGLS, were univariate predictors of mortality (p<0.1). LAVI was the only independent echocardiographic predictor in a multivariable model. Kaplan Meir analysis evaluated LAVI, LVGLS and E/e' using clinical cutoffs as a predictor of survival; only LAVI and LVGLS were significant. A novel “Echo score” comprising of LAVI (>42 ml/m2) and LVGLS (<−12%) was a predictor of mortality with similar prognostic performance as Mayo stage. (Echo score AUC 0.745, 95% CI 0.64–0.85 vs Mayo score AUC 0.752 95% CI 0.66–0.86, p=0.9).

Conclusion

LAVI, a simple, echocardiographic parameter was as an independent predictor of mortality in AL amyloidosis. A composite echocardiographic score combining LAVI and LVGLS stratified AL-amyloidosis patients into 3 distinct groups with similar prognostic power as Mayo stage for all-cause mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Heart rate control and hemodynamic improvement with Ivabradine in cardiogenic shock patients on mechanical circulatory support
Authors: Colombo C N J , Dammassa V , Battistini L , Erba M , Camporotondo R , Pellegrini C , Mojoli F , Tavazzi G
Published: October 2022

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life threatening condition due to primary cardiac dysfunction. First line therapy involves drug administration (including inotropes and/or vasopressors) up to mechanical circulatory support. Tachycardia is a compensatory mechanism in response to hypotension and low cardiac output or a side effect related to inotropic drugs. Ivabradine selectively acts on IKf channel in the sinoatrial node to reduce sinus heart rate without affecting inotropism. Its use in small non-randomized series of patients with CS was safe and well tolerated [1].

Methods

We present the use of ivabradine in six patients with CS undertaking veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Data regarding haemodynamic and echocardiographic monitoring were collected before, at 12, 24 and 48 hours after ivabradine administration.

Results

Ivabradine was administered through naso-gastric tube with a median time of 23 hours [IQR 18–28] since VA-ECMO implantation at the starting dose of 2.5 mg twice a day. Haemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters are shown in table. Ivabradine was well tolerated and led to a significant reduction of heart rate after first administration (p<0.01) (Fig. 1, panel A). Echo-derived stroke volume increased significantly (p<0.001) (Fig. 1, panel B); so did cardiac index (p<0.001) and left ventricular cardiac power index (p 0.005) (Fig. 1, panel C). VA-ECMO rate pump and blood flow significantly decreased (respectively p 0.002, p 0.001). No significant changes were observed in arterial blood pressure (p>0.05). Norepinephrine was down-titrated in all patients (p 0.01). Patients presented with cardiac arrest died due to neurological injury whereas the others were weaned off VA-ECMO and discharged alive.

Conclusions

Ivabradine administration resulted in an effective reduction of heart rate leading to ventricular stroke volume allowing the reduction of extracorporeal flow support and vasopressors administration.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
15-year survival of comatose OHCA patients according to initial rhythm
Authors: Tadel-Kocjancic S , Jazbec A , Noc M
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Long-term outcome of comatose survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is largely unknown. We therefore investigated 15-year survival of consecutive patients who were admitted to our hospital after reestablishment of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) on the field.

Methods and results

Between January 2003 and January 2022, 851 patients with shockable and 247 patients with non-shockable rhythms were admitted. Patients with shockable rhythm were significantly younger (61.5±13,3 versus 66.8±14.8 years), had more often bystander life support (64% versus 35%), shorter delay to emergency team arrival (7.3±5.1 versus 8.3±5.9 minutes), shorter time from advanced life support to ROSC (16.6±15.27 versus 18.5±14.3) and more aggressive hospital treatment including hypothermia (89% versus 74%), coronary angiography/PCI strategy (81% versus 52%) and more IABP/ECMO support (18% versus 10%). Survival with good neurological outcome in patients with shockable rhythm decreased from 51% at hospital discharge to 35% at 15 years (Figure 1). In patients with non-shockable rhythm, survival decreased from 14% at hospital discharge to 8% at 15 years.

Conclusion

If comatose OHCA patient survives to hospital discharge, annual death rate during the following 15 years is 1.07% for shockable and 0.40 for non-shockable rhythms indicating good long-term outcome.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Comparison of mechanical support with Impella or extracorporeal life support in post-cardiac arrest cardiogenic shock: a propensity scoring matching analysis
Authors: Chatzis G , Markus B , Ahrens H , Luesebrink U , Karatolios K , Schuett H , Patsalis N , Divchev D , Schieffer B , Syntila S
Published: October 2022

Background

Out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a major public health problem and a leading cause of death in industrialized nations. Post-cardiac arrest cardiogenic shock (CS) occurs frequently after resuscitation from CA and may lead to multi-organ failure and death, even in patients with good neurologic prognosis. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) may be considered at that time in order to augment cardiac output, stabilize hemodynamics and ensure adequate organ perfusion. However, optimal selection of the device type remains unclear and, so far, no specific guideline recommendation exists. The Impella pump and extracorporeal circulatory support (ECLS) are the most frequently used device types for temporary percutaneous MCS in this context.

Purpose

Our aim was to compare outcomes of Impella with extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in patients with post-cardiac arrest cardiogenic shock (CS) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

Reetrospective study of patients resuscitated from OHCA with post-cardiac arrest CS following AMI (May 2015 to May 2020) treated with MCS in terms of Impella or ECLS. Outcomes were compared using propensity score-matched analysis to account for differences in baseline characteristics between groups of MCS.

Results

159 patients were included (Impella, n=105; ECLS, n=54). Hospital and 12-month survival rates were comparable in the Impella and the ECLS group (p=0.16 and p=0.3, respectively). After adjustment for baseline differences, both groups demonstrated comparable hospital and 12-month survival (p=0.36 and p=0.64, respectively) (Figure 1). Impella patients had a significantly greater left ventricle ejection-fraction (LVEF) improvement at 96 hours (p<0.01 vs p=0.44 in ECLS) and significantly fewer device-associated complications than ECLS patients (15.2% versus 35.2%, p<0.01 for relevant access site bleeding, 7.6% versus 20.4%, p=0.04 for limb ischemia requiring intervention). In subgroup analyses, Impella was associated with better survival in patients with lower-risk features (lactate <8,6 mmol/L, time from collapse to return of spontaneous circulation <28 min, vasoactive score <46 and Horowitz index >182) (Figure 2).

Conclusions

In the biggest so far homogenous study of OHCA, the use of Impella 2.5/CP or ECLS in post-cardiac arrest CS after AMI was associated with comparable adjusted hospital and 12-month survival. Impella patients had a greater LVEF improvement than ECLS patients, while it was associated with a better survival in patients with low risk profile after OHCA. Device-related access-site complications occurred more frequently in patients with ECLS than Impella support.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
SARS-CoV-2 is associated withabnormal biomarkers of oxidative stress,and endothelial function linked with cardiovascular dysfunction four months after the infection
Authors: Ikonomidis I , Kountouri A , Mitrakou A , Thymis J , Katogiannis K , Korakas E , Varlamos C , Bamias A , Thomas K , Andreadou I , Tsoumani M , Kavatha D , Antoniadou A , Dimopoulos M A , Lambadiari V
Published: October 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 infection has been associated with increase arterial stiffness, endothelialdysfunction, and impairment in coronary and cardiac performance. Inflammation and oxidative stress have beensuggested as possible pathophysiological mechanisms leading to vascular and endothelial deregulation afterCOVID-19 infection.

Purpose

The objective of our study is to evaluate premature alterations in arterial stiffness, endothelial,coronary, and myocardial function markers four months after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

In a case-control prospective study, we included 70 patients 4 months after COVID-19 infection, 70 age- and sex-matched untreated hypertensive patients (positive control) and 70 healthy individuals. We measured (i) perfused boundary region (PBR) of the sublingual arterial microvessels (increased PBR indicates reduced endothelial glycocalyx thickness), (ii) flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), (iii) coronary flow reserve (CFR) by Doppler echocardiography, (iv) pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central systolic blood pressure (cSBP), (v) global left and right ventricular longitudinal strain (GLS), (vi) malondialdehyde (MDA), an oxidative stress marker, thrombomodulin and von Willebrand factor as endothelial biomarkers.

Results

COVID-19 patients had similar CFR and FMD with hypertensives (2.48±0.41 vs 2.58±0.88, p=0.562, 5.86±2.82% vs 5.80±2.07%, p=0.872 respectively) but lower values than controls (3.42±0.65, p=0.0135, 9.06±2.11%, p=0.002 respectively). Compared to controls, both COVID-19 and hypertensives had greater PBR5–25 (2.07±0.15μm and 2.07±0.26μm p=0.8 vs 1.89±0.17μm, p=0.001), higher PWV, (12.09±2.50 vs 11.92±2.94, p=0.7 vs 10.04±1.80m/sec, p=0.036) increased cSBP (128.43±17.39 vs 135.17±16.83 vs 117.89±18.85) and impaired LV and RV GLS (−19.50±2.56% vs −19.23±2.67%, p=0.864 vs −21.98±1.51%, p=0.020 and −16.99±3.17% vs −18.63±3.20%, p=0.002 vs −20.51±2.28%, p<0.001). MDA and thrombomodulin were higher in COVID-19 patients than both hypertensives and controls (10.67±2.75 vs 1.76±0.30, p=0.003 vs 1.01±0.50nmole/L, p=0.001 and 3716.63±188.36 vs 3114.46±179.18, p=0.017 vs 2590.02±156.51pg/ml, p<0.001). COVID-19 patients displayed similar vWF values with hypertensives but higher compared with healthy controls (4018.03±474.31 vs 3756.65±293.28 vs 2079.33±855.10 ng/ml, p=0.718 and p=0.016 respectively).

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with oxidative stress, endothelial and vascular dysfunction, which are linked to impaired longitudinal myocardial deformation 4 months after COVID-19 infection.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Tricuspid regurgitation: frequency, management and outcome among patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease in Europe. Insights from the ESC-EORP valvular heart disease II survey
Authors: Dreyfus J , Komar M , Attias D , De Bonnis M , Ruschitzka F , Popescu B A , Laroche C , Tribouilloy C , Prokophiev A B , Mizariene V , Bax J J , Maggioni A P , Vahanian A , Iung B
Published: October 2022

Background

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is frequent among patients with severe left-sided valvular heart disease (LS-VHD).

Objectives

This study sought to assess TR frequency, management and outcome in this population.

Methods

Among 6883 patients with severe LS-VHD or previous valvular intervention in the EURObservational Research Programme prospective VHD II survey, we analyzed frequency and grade of TR according to LS-VHD, and 6-month survival according to TR grade. Among 2081 patients who underwent an intervention for severe LS-VHD, we analyzed frequency and outcome of concomitant TV intervention, and concordance between Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery (patients with severe TR) and real-practice decision-making.

Results

Moderate to severe TR was very frequent among patients with severe mitral VHD (≥30%), especially in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation (46%), and rare among patients with aortic VHD (<5%). Higher TR grade was associated with a poorer 6-month survival (P<0.001). Rates of concomitant tricuspid valve (TV) intervention at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery were high at the time of mitral valve surgery (more than 40%). Concomitant TV intervention at the time of left-sided heart valve surgery (LS-HVS) was not associated with an increase in-hospital mortality (P=0.93). Concordance between Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery at the time of LS-HVS according to guidelines and real-practice decision-making was very good (88% overall).

Conclusion

TR was frequent in patients with mitral VHD and was associated with a poorer outcome as TR grade increased. Compliance to guidelines for Class I indications for concomitant TV surgery at the time of LS-HVS was very good. With the trend toward more transcatheter treatment for left-sided VHD, there is a critical need for safe and efficient tricuspid valve transcatheter treatment for patients with concomitant TR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Extent and predictors of exercise-induced changes in ischemic mitral regurgitation during handgrip exercise
Authors: Spieker M , Sidabras J S , Lagarden H , Veulemans V , Akhyari P , Horn P , Kelm M , Westenfeld R
Published: October 2022

Background

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is frequent in patients with ischemic heart disease and carries a dismal prognosis. Recent studies suggest that ischemic MR is a dynamic condition influenced by global and regional left ventricular (LV) remodeling as well as mitral valvular deformation. Handgrip exercise may serve as alternative exercise intervention to bicycle exercise.

Purpose

To assess degree and determinants of exercise-induced changes in ischemic MR during handgrip exercise.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 205 patients with at least mild ischemic MR that underwent echocardiography at rest and during three minutes of handgrip exercise according to a standardized protocol.

Results

Mean age in our patient cohort was 75±10 years, 30% were female, and 58% suffer from atrial fibrillation. Median NT-proBNP was 2657 (1331–6599) ng/l. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 44±14%. At rest, MR severity was graded as mild in 57% of patients, moderate MR in 34% and severe in 9%. Mean effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) at rest was 15±6 mm2 and regurgitation volume was 25±11 ml. During handgrip exercise, 58 patients (28%) showed an increase in MR severity in at least one grade; 30 patients (15%) with non-severe MR at rest, developed severe MR during handgrip exercise. The EROA decreased (>5 mm2) in 5% of patients, remained unchanged in 50% (between −5 mm2 and +5 mm2), and increased (>5 mm2) in 45% of patients (Fig. 1B). A small increase (5–10 mm2) was observed in 30%, while 15% of patients revealed a marked increase in EROA (>10 mm2) (Fig. 1B). The degree of MR at rest was not associated with exercise-induced increases in EROA (r=−0.03; p=0.641)(Fig. 1C). However, echocardiographic parameters of local (e.g. tenting height) and global (e.g. LVESVi) LV remodeling, as well as mitral valvular deformation correlated with exercise-induced changes in EROA (Table 1).

Conclusion

In patients with secondary MR due to ischemic heart disease, handgrip echocardiography unmasks exercise-induced increases of MR severity in a significant proportion of patients. Dynamic MR during handgrip exercise is associated with parameters of global and local LV remodeling as well with parameters of mitral valvular deformation. Future studies need to address the prognostic importance of exercise-induced changes in MR severity in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): This work was supported by the Forschungskommission of the Medical Faculty of the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf to Maximilian Spieker for a Clinician Scientist Track.
No cardiac sequelae after COVID-19: results of the one year follow-up with echocardiography and biomarkers
Authors: Radvan M , Kamenik M , Koc L , Matejova G , Bartecku E , Horinkova J , Stepanova R , Kala P
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the need for cardiac monitoring of unselected patients recovered from COVID-19 and to estimate the risk of heart failure development after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods

During March 2020 and January 2021, 106 patients recovered from SARS-CoV-2 (alfa and beta variants) were enrolled in the prospective observational cohort study, CoSuBr (Covid Survivals in Brno). The diagnosis was established by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction on swab test of the upper respiratory tract.

Demographic parameters, patient history, clinical evaluation, cardiac biomarkers, ECG and echocardiography were recorded within three visits (V1 at least six weeks after infection, V2 three months later and V3 one year after V1).

Results

The study group (n=106) included 58% women, mean age was 46 years (range 18–77 years). Mean time interval between the onset of the infection and the follow-up visit was 107 days. One quarter (24.5%) of the patients required hospitalisation during the acute phase of the disease, the rest recovered at home. 74% suffered from mild form, 3.8% moderate, 18.3% severe and 2.9% of critical form of the disease. At the time of enrolment 63.5% of the patients were referring the ongoing symptoms, while more than half of the whole group (50.9%) mentioned at least one symptom of possible cardiac origin (breathing problems, palpitations, exercise intolerance, fatigue).

During one year follow up after COVID-19 infection there was no decrease of left ventricle ejection fraction (V1: 62.1±5.26% to V3: 60.8±6.24%, p=0,150), no changes of troponin (4.8±3.41 to 4.7±3.31ng/L; p=0.417) and NT-proBNP (74.3±75.15 to 95.3±137.28pg/mL; p=0,315). There was a mild decrease of right ventricle end diastolic diameter (28.9±5.59 to 26.8±3.83mm, p<0.001), while no right ventricle dysfunction was detected. There was a very mild progress in a left ventricle diastolic diameter (47.9±6.34 to 49.3±4.21mm; p<0.001) between V1 a V3, a mild enlargement of left atrium (37.1±5.85 to 38.2±5.65mm; p=0,021) and non-significant trend to impairment of left ventricle diastolic dysfunction. There was a mild change of pulmonary artery systolic pressure (24.7±7.92 to 27.5±6.97mmHg; p=0,038).

Conclusion

Despite many information regarding cardiac impairment of SARS-CoV-2 our study does not suggest increased risk of development of heart failure during the one year follow-up. Based on our results the routine echocardiography and biomarkers collection is currently not recommended after COVID-19 recovery.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): MH CZ - DRO; MEYS - RI CZECRIN
Identification of distinct subgroups in moderately severe rheumatic mitral stenosis using data-driven phenotyping of longitudinal hemodynamic progression
Authors: Ko K , Cho I S , Kim S B , Seong Y C , Kim D Y , Seo J W , Shim C Y , Hong G R , Ha J W , You S C
Published: October 2022

Background

Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is a significant cause of valvular heart disease. Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) reflects the hemodynamic consequences of MS and is used to determine treatment strategies. However, PASP progression and expected outcomes in patients with moderately severe MS remain unclear.

Purpose

We aimed to examine the impact of progression rate of PASP in moderately severe MS.

Methods

A cohort of 866 consecutive patients with moderately severe rheumatic MS (1.0 cm2.

Results

Data-driven phenotyping identified two distinct trajectories based on PASP progression: a rapid progression group (N=38, 8.7%) and a slow progression group (N=398, 91.3%). Patients in the rapid progression group were older and had more comorbidities than patients in the slow progression group, including diabetes, and atrial fibrillation (all P<0.05). The initial mean diastolic pressure gradient and PASP were higher in the rapid progression group than in the slow progression group (6.2±2.4 mmHg vs. 5.1±2.0 mmHg, P=0.001, and 42.3±13.3 mmHg vs. 33.0±9.2 mmHg, P<0.001, respectively). During a mean follow-up of 7.0±3.0 years, the event-free survival rate was significantly lower in the rapid progression group than in the slow progression group (log-rank P<0.001). Rapid PASP progression was a significant risk factor for composite outcomes even after adjusting for comorbidities (hazard ratio: 3.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.68–5.64, P<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that PASP>40 mmHg was independently associated with the probability of rapid progression group allocation (odds ratio: 4.95, 95% CI: 2.08–11.99, P<0.001).

Conclusions

Two groups with distinct patterns of PASP progression were identified. Rapid PASP progression was associated with a significantly higher risk of the composite outcomes. The main independent echocardiographic predictor for rapid progression group allocation was initial PASP>40 mmHg.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private hospital(s). Main funding source(s): This study was supported by a Severance Hospital Research fund for Clinical excellence (SHRC) (C-2020-0041) and a faculty research grant of Yonsei University College of Medicine (6-2020-0156).
A preliminary analysis regarding functional mitral regurgitation grading with echocardiography and CMR: in search of similarities and resolving discordances
Authors: Maltes S , Lima R , Santos R R , Freitas P , Lopes P M D , Marta L , Guerreiro S , Abecasis J , Ferreira A , Ribeiras R , Andrade M J
Published: October 2022

Background

Functional mitral regurgitation (fMR) severity grading by 2D transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) can be a complex task, especially in patients where PISA assumptions are not met (eg. non-circular orifice or multiple jets). Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can provide further insight on the hemodynamic burden of fMR by accurately determining mitral regurgitant fraction (RegFrac). Our goal was to investigate the concordance and disagreement between the two modalities in assessing fMR.

Methodology

Single-center prospective study of fMR patients performing same-day TTE and CMR from Feb to Dec 2021. MR severity was classified according to 2020 ACC consensus: grade I (mild; EROA <0.20 cm2), grade II (moderate; EROA 0.20–0.29 cm2), grade III (moderate-to-severe; EROA 0.30–0.39 cm2) and grade IV (severe; EROA ≥0.40 cm2). MR assessment by CMR was determined through regurgitant volume (RVol) and RegFrac quantification. A RegFrac ≥35% (recently shown as the best cut-off for prognostication) was considered hemodynamically significant.

Results

A total of 36 patients were included (age 65±14y; 74% male; left ventricle [LV] ejection fraction by TTE and CMR 35±13% and 34±11%, respectively). Mean RVol and EROA by TTE were 28±11mL and 0.18±0.8 cm2. Mean RVol and Regfrac by CMR were 20±13 mL and 25±12%, respectively. A moderate correlation between RVol by TTE and CMR was found (Pearson's R 0.58, p=0.001). According to TTE, there were 20 patients (56%) with grade I fMR, 12 patients (33%) with grade II fMR and 4 patients (11%) with grade III fMR. All patients considered to have mild (grade I) fMR by TTE had a RegFrac <35% at CMR. However, amongst those with moderate and moderate-to-severe (grades II and III) fMR, there were 8 patients (50%) with hemodynamic significant fMR (RegFrac ≥35%) at CMR – see Figure 1. Those with RegFrac ≥35% by CMR had higher indexed LV diastolic (165±24 vs 139±48 mL/m2) and systolic (116±31 vs 95±48 mL/m2) volumes and higher pulmonary artery systolic pressures (48±14 vs 41±16 mmHg) when compared with patients whose RegFrac was <35%, even though statistically significance was not reached.

Conclusion

Using the criterion of RegFrac ≥35%, CMR re-classifies (half for each side) the patients with moderate and moderate-to-severe regurgitations by TTE. Recognizing, overcoming and resolving the disagreements between the techniques is the way forward to reach excellence.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Adding troponin to echocardiography improves preoperative abscess detection in infective endocarditis. A REMOVE Trial analysis
Authors: Diab M , Franz M , Hamadanchi A , Faerber G , Safarov R , Kirov H , Lehmann T , Schulze P C , Doenst T
Published: October 2022

Background

Detection of cardiac abscess in patients with infective endocarditis (IE) is important for surgical planning and decision-making. While transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the method of choice for abscess detection, in many cases uncertainty remains. Since IE abscesses often affect ventricular muscle, biomarker release may be a helpful adjunct for abscess detection.

Purpose

We assessed the accuracy of TEE and the value of combining it with preoperative measurement of cardiac Troponin (cTn) in the diagnosis of abscess, using surgical inspection as a reference.

Methods

Data collected in the electronic clinical report form for patients included in the prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled trial (REMOVE Trial) were analyzed. Continuous variables are presented as median (25th–75th percentile) and categorical data as absolute and relative frequencies. The diagnostic performance of TEE was identified by comparing preoperative TEE findings with intraoperative findings. The concordance rate is expressed as a percentage. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the ability of cTn to predict the presence of abscess intraoperatively. Area under curve (AUC) with 95% confidence interval as well as sensitivity and specificity are provided as measures of accuracy. Youden index was used to estimate an optimal cut-off value for cTn.

Results

Among the 282 patients included, 84 had abscesses detected intraoperatively. The sensitivity and specificity of TEE to detect abscess were 58.3% and 86.4%, respectively. cTn-I and cTn-T were measured preoperatively in 113 and 96 patients, respectively. Median cTn-I in patients with abscess was 132 pg/ml (interquartile range (IQR): 54–1528) vs 53 pg/ml (IQR: 17–250) in patients without abscess, p=0.002. Median cTn-T in patients with abscess was 941 pg/ml (IQR: 387–1527) vs 697 pg/ml (IQR: 282–1423) in patients without abscess, p=0.353. The incidence of recent preoperative myocardial infarction was not different between patients with or without abscess (7.1% vs 5.6%, respectively, p=0.593). The AUC for predicting abscess was 0.69 (95% CI: 0.57 to 0.80, p=0.002) and 0.56 (95% CI: 0.43 to 0.69, p=0.353) for preoperative cTn-I and cTn-T, respectively. Optimal cut-offs according to the Youden index are 38 pg/ml for cTn-I and 1632 pg/ml for cTn-T. By adding preoperative cTn-I or cTn-T to the TEE findings, the AUC increased to 0.82 (95% CI: 0.73 to 0.91, p<0.001) and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.59 to 00.84, p=0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

The results suggest that using TEE alone is a poor method for abscess detection in IE. Adding preoperative troponin values to TEE findings significantly improved IE abscess detection.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), Germany
Effects of Sacubitril/Valsartan on left ventricular pressure-volume relationship in heart failure
Authors: Stegmann T , Parentin L , Schirmer S H , Hagendorff A , Laufs U , Lavall D
Published: October 2022

Background

In patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction, Sacubitril/Valsartan (S/V) reduces the risk for death and hospitalisations. However, the underlying mechanism for these beneficial effects of S/V, is still lacking.

Methods

Consecutive patients with symptomatic HF and LV ejection fraction (EF) ≤40% who were assigned to S/V were prospectively included in this study (n=117). Non-invasive pressure volume loops were obtained from echocardiography with simultaneous arm-cuff blood pressure measurement. By this method, LV end-systolic elastance (Ees), effective arterial elastance (Ea) and ventricular-arterial coupling (Ea/Ees) were calculated. LV end-diastolic pressure was derived from the E/e' ratio. This is a prespecified interim analysis of 50 patients with completed 6 months of follow-up. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04498780.

Results

Mean age was 61.8±18.6 years and 12 (24%) patients were females. Ischaemic heart failure was present in 22 (44%), non-ischaemic aetiology in 24 (48%), and myocarditis in 4 (8%) patients. 34 (68%) patients were on the target dose of S/V after 6 months of treatment. At 6 months, LV end-diastolic volume (110±28 ml/m2 vs. 87±31 ml/m2, p<0.0001) and end-systolic volume (78±26 ml/m2 vs. 52±26 ml/m2, p<0.0001) were reduced, hence mean LVEF increased (30±7% vs. 42±11%, p<0.0001). LV end-diastolic pressure was significantly reduced (21±3.9 mmHg vs. 18±2.7 mmHg, p<0.0001). These hemodynamic changes were associated with improved NYHA functional class (8% class III vs. 20% at baseline), reduced median NT-proBNP level (2398 pg/ml, interquartile range [IQR]: 1185–6034 to 813 pg/ml, IQR: 299–1971, p<0.001) and increased mean six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance (356.8m (±150.5) at baseline to 415.0m (±397.0) at six months, p=0.003). LV end-systolic elastance (Ees), arterial elastance (Ea) and the ventricular-arterial coupling ratio Ea/Ees remained similar at 6 months of follow-up compared to baseline (p=ns).

Conclusion

After 6 months of treatment with Sacubitril/Valsartan, LV remodelling and reduced LV filling pressures were observed. These changes were associated with improvements in functional capacity, natriuretic peptide levels and NYHA functional class. Thus, the study provides important mechanistic insides into the hemodynamics of angiotensin–neprilysin inhibition in heart failure which might help to individualize therapy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Aortic valve calcium score: does it correlate with mean transaortic gradient?
Authors: Amador A , Martins Da Costa C , Calvao J , Carvalho J M , Proenca T , Pinto R , Marques C , Cabrita A , Santos L , Oliveira C , Pinho A , Palma P , Rocha M , Sousa C , Macedo F
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Aortic valvular calcium score (AVCS) is useful in patients with aortic stenosis for whom echocardiography was not conclusive in grading its severity. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established procedure of treatment in symptomatic severe AS. The burden of aortic valve calcification has been associated with some TAVI related complications (as perivalvular leaks), but at the same time it is well accepted that some degree of calcification is needed to ensure stable anchoring of the prosthesis to the aortic annulus.

Purpose

To assess if there is a correlation between aortic valve calcium score and mean transvalvular gradient 6 months after TAVI – is a higher AVCS correlated with lower mean transaortic gradient after TAVI?

Methods

We performed a single-center, retrospective cohort study including patients who underwent TAVI with a preoperative standardized contrast enhanced MSCT with AVCS available. Clinical and echocardiographic data were collected previously to TAVI (pre-TAVI) and at 6 months follow up (6M-FUP).

Results

A total of 187 patients were included, with 54% female and a mean age of 79.4±9.0 years old. Most patients had tricuspid aortic valve (95.7%); 5 patients had aortic bicuspidy and 3 had aortic valve bioprothesis. Concerning the valve type, 73.3% had new generation prosthesis and the main valve used was the CoreValve Evolut Pro (33.7%). Also, 38,5% needed balloon pre-dilation before TAVI. The mean pre-TAVI aortic transvalvular maximum and mean gradients were 76.5±23.2 mmHg and 48.3±15.5 mmHg, respectively; mean aortic valve area was 0.75±0.16 cm2. The mean AVCS was 2851±1524 AU (Agaston Units); 81.2% of women had AVCS>1300 AU and 74.4% men had AVCS >2000 AU. Comparing transvalvular aortic gradients previously and 6M-FUP after TAVI, there was an average differential of maximum gradient of 61±22 mmHg and of mean gradient of 40±15 mmHg. A negative and weak correlation was found between the AVCS and the maximum gradient (pearson coefficient of −0.181, p=0.02) and between mean gradient at 6M-FUP (pearson coefficient of −0.191, p=0.014).

Discussion and conclusion

AVCS is a significant predictor for death, stroke and perivalvular leaks after TAVI. On the other hand, high AVCS is associated with better seating in the native annulus during deployment. Nevertheless, high AVCS did not strongly correlated with mean transaortic gradient 6 months after TAVI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Clinical determinants of non-invasive global myocardial work index before and after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a prospective study
Authors: Lakatos B K , Ruppert M , Ladanyi Z , Fabian A , Ujvari A , Turschl T , Molnar B , Straub E , Molnar A , Nagy A , Molnar L , Kovacs A , Merkely B
Published: October 2022

The estimation of non-invasive global myocardial work indices is a novel method of the left ventricular (LV) functional assessment, which may overcome the load-sensitvity of the traditional functional measures. The diagnostic and prognostic role of this approach may gain particular importance in pressure overload states, such as in patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, the longitudinal changes of this recently introduced measure are scarcely investigated, and data are also lacking about the main determinants of these measures.

Accordingly, our aim was to investigate the clinical determinants of preoperative and also postoperative GMWI in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Fifty patients (62% male, age: 78±5 years) were enrolled. Prior to the procedure, subjects underwent echocardiographic investigation and the detailed medical history was also recorded. Speckle-tracking analysis was performed and global longitudinal strain (GLS) was measured. LV pressure curve was estimated by adding the mean aortic valve gradient to the systolic blood pressure. Using these measures, global myocardial work index (GMWI) and global constructive work index (CMWI) was quantified by commercially available software. A 6 months follow-up examination was also performed and at that time point we determined the aforementioned parameters.

At follow-up, GLS has significantly increased (−13.0±4.1 vs. −14.8±3.8%; p<0.001), while GMWI was significantly lower compared to baseline (1789±748 vs. 1506±561 mmHg%, p<0.01). CMWI did not differ between the two time points (2309±782 vs. 2086±609 mmHg%, p=0.11). Using multivariable analysis, age (β=0.30; p<0.05) preoperative New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (β=−0.48; p<0.001) and having a pacemaker (β=−0.44; p<0.01) were found to be independent predictors of the preoperative GMWI (R2=0.39; overall p<0.001). On the other hand, postoperative GMWI was determined (R2=0.48; overall p<0.001) by gender (β=−0.25; p<0.05), the presence of diabetes mellitus (β=−0.37; p<0.01) and also by having a pacemaker (β=−0.38; p<0.01).

TAVR significantly alters LV functional measures. Different clinical factors influence GMWI before and after the procedure: age, NYHA class-based symptom severity and having a pacemaker were found to be independently associated with preoperative GMWI, while gender, the presence of diabetes mellitus and pacemaker device are the most important clinical determinants of the postoperative GMWI value.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Prognostic value of left ventricular chamber stiffness and heart failure in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing aortic valve replacement
Authors: Wen S N , Anand V , Abdelrazek A S , Pislaru S V , Thaden J T , Pellikka P A , Nkomo V T , Kane G C , Greason K L , Pislaru C
Published: October 2022

Background

Increased left ventricular (LV) stiffness (LVStiffn) was shown to be associated with mortality in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), despite aortic valve replacement (AVR), and may contribute to future heart failure (HF) symptoms. The aim was to assess whether preoperative LVStiffn is a risk factor of HF in these patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was done in patients with severe AS who underwent AVR (93% surgical). LV end-diastolic pressure-volume relations (P=aVb) were reconstructed from LV end-diastolic volumes and estimated end-diastolic pressures (from E/e'); LVStiffn at 30 mmHg (CS30) and capacitance (V30) were then derived. Primary endpoint was development of symptomatic HF at >1 month post AVR.

Results

1,837 patients were studied (age 76±10 years, 62% males, LVEF 61±12%; Table). Mean CS30 was 2.2±1.3 mmHg/mL and V30 64±17 mL/m2. Patients with higher CS30 ≥3 mmHg/mL were older, more frequently female, and had more comorbidities. During a median follow-up of 5.0 [3.0–7.9] years, 607 (33%) patients developed HF. A higher CS30 (≥3 mmHg/mL), but not V30 (P=0.32), was associated with higher risk of HF events (HR 1.86 [95% CI 1.52–2.27], P<0.0001), along with other clinical and echo predictors (Table). In multivariate analysis, adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, advanced NYHA class III–IV, creatinine >1.5 mg/dL, medication use, severity of AS, reduced LVEF <50%, diastolic dysfunction grade ≥2, right ventricular size and pulmonary hypertension, a higher CS30 ≥3 mmHg/mL remained independently associated with HF events (adjusted HR 1.61 [1.29–2.01], P<0.0001; Figure).

Conclusion

Increased LVStiffn in patients with severe AS undergoing AVR is associated with HF at follow-up, despite the benefits brought by AVR, and can help identify patients with poorer outcomes who may need closer monitoring/more intensive treatment of comorbidities

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Reliability of echocardiographic estimation of pulmonary artery pressure in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Lemarchand L , Leurent G L , Auffret V A , Donal E D
Published: October 2022

Background

Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) seems to be mistaken for the estimation of systolic Pulmonary Artery Pressure (sPAP) especially in patients with severe Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR). This study aimed to determine the reliability of the assessment of sPAP by TTE in this population.

Methods

This is a monocentric analysis of 236 consecutive patients with concomitant Right Heart Catheterization (RHC) and TTE performed in the assessment of an heart failure syndrome. Lin's Concordance Coefficient (LCC) and Bland-Altman Analysis (BAA) were used to compare the values of RHC and TTE.

Results

The correlation between the two procedures was good in the total population (LCC = 0.80; 95% limits of agreement (LOA): 0.74; 0.84), but weaker in the 78 patients (33%) with severe TR (LCC = 0.67; 95% LOA: 0.49; 0.80), with a propensity to an underestimation by TTE. Altered Right Ventricular (RV) – Pulmonary Artery (AP) coupling did not lead to a misestimation, contrary to an elevated Right Atrial Pressure (RAP), which was associated with an underestimation by TTE of about 8 mmHg. The presence of “C-V waves” sign on the RAP curves (Odds-Ratio (OR) = 3.32; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.02; 10.9; p=0.04) and invasive sPAP ≥50 mmHg (OR = 2.63; 95% CI: 1.35; 5.16; p<0.01) were two independent predictors of a misestimation of sPAP by TTE.

Conclusion

Severe TR led to an underestimation by TTE, especially if the RAP curve shows a “C-V waves” sign, and in the case of high invasive sPAP.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): CHU Rennes Pontchaillou
Impact of TTVR on reverse remodeling of right-ventricular function and morphology in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Primet Y , Menck N M , Alushi B A , Bisht O B , Loser S L , Duddek C D , Geweiler J G , Alsheri S A , Vathie K V , Beuster S B , Steinborn F S , Mattea V M , Schade A S , Schulz-Menger J S M , Lauten A L
Published: October 2022

Background

Tricuspidregurgitation (TR) is recognized as majorpublic health concern with significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Multiple innovative approaches for transcatheter tricuspidvalve repair (TTVR) are currently under development, however their impact on cardiac function and outcome is still unclear. Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMRI) is considered as reference technique for right ventricular (RV) volumetric and functional measurements. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of TTVR with the TriClip Technique on CMRI measured RV function and morphology.

Methods and results

Pre- and postprocedural to TTVR, RV function and morphology were evaluated in CMRI. Clinical outcome and quality of life were evaluated based on New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and the KCCQ-Score at baseline and within 30 days after Triclip Implantation. In total, 16 patients underwent pre and post procedural CMRI. Mean age was 78.9±0.5 years, with 42.8% were male (n=7). All patients presented functional TR. Mean RV end-diastolic volume (RVEDV) and RV end-systolic volume (RVESV) at baseline were 192.7ml ±25.85ml and 97.9ml ±0.51ml, RV stroke volume (RVSV) was 94.84ml and the RV ejection fraction (RVEF) was 49.5%. After a meanfollow-up of 19.6±1.1d, RVEDV and RVESV haddecreased to 181.7ml ±0.01ml and 85.5 ml ±5.95ml, respectively. The RVSV and RVEF increased to 94.2ml ±8.15ml and 53.1% ±0.14%, respectively. The quality of life evaluation showed an improvement of KCCQ-Score in 13/16 patients and remained unchanged or worsened in 3/16 patients.

Conclusion

In this pilot study, we observed an improvement of RV function as well as a reduction of RVEDV and RVESV after TTVR. These functional and morphometric changes induced by TTVR suggest a more efficient RV stroke work. This was associated with an improved quality of life according to KCCQ-Score in the majority of patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Helios Klinikum Erfurt