bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ICD implantation and device therapy: Fabry vs hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Vijapurapu R , Zegard A , Leyva F , Bradlow W , Jovanovic A , Hughes D , Geberhiwot T , Steeds R.P 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Cardiac involvement of Fabry disease (FD) includes left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), inflammation, arrhythmia and sudden death. There are limited data regarding potential risk predictors and no definitive criteria exist to guide implantation of cardiac devices for primary prevention. Despite phenotypic similarities between FD and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), FD is specifically excluded from the ESC sudden cardiac death risk prediction tool used for HCM.

Purpose
To evaluate differences in device implantation and arrhythmic burden between advanced Fabry cardiomyopathy and HCM.

Methods
This multi-centre, retrospective study including genetically confirmed FD and age/gender-matched HCM patients all of whom had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Data was collected prior to device implantation on disease characteristics, biomarkers and CMR imaging. Arrhythmia burden and changes in therapy were captured following implantation.

Results
Of the UK FD population under follow-up, 50/880 had an ICD implanted (80% males, 51% non-classical mutation, mean age at device implantation 57±12 years). A comparator group included 64 age- and gender-matched HCM patients (67% males, mean age at implant 46±39 years). Baseline LV mass was greater in FD (291±97g/m2 vs 218±78g/m2, p=0.012). FD patients had higher troponin (95 vs 19ng/l, p&lt;0.001) but similar NT-pro-BNP (1687 vs 888ng/l, p=0.086) levels.
Indications for ICD insertion in FD included: presumed HCM dual pathology 14%, symptomatic NSVT 18%, asymptomatic NSVT 24%, co-existing long QT 2%, CRT-D 14%, no clear indication (primary prevention in the presence of multiple potential arrhythmic risk factors) 28%. All HCM patients were risk stratified and underwent device implantation based on an estimated 5-year SCD risk &gt;4%. All FD patients had a SCD risk &gt;4% using this risk calculator. Arrhythmia were more common in FD over shorter follow-up (37/50, 74% over 4.3±3.0 years vs 28/64 in HCM, 44% over 6.5±2.9 years, p=0.001). Notably, VT requiring anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) +/− defibrillation therapy from the ICD was more frequent (FD: 14/50, 28% vs HCM: 8/64, 12%, p=0.055), as was immediate shock therapy for sustained VT (p=0.009, figure panel B). FD patients with arrhythmia were often older, had greater LV mass, a larger left atrium and a broader QRS duration. These clinical features tended to occur more frequently in FD than in the HCM group.

Conclusion
This study has shown that delivery of device therapy in Fabry cardiomyopathy is higher than in HCM. Despite similar rates of asymptomatic NSVT, a higher rate of ventricular arrhythmia requiring ATP/defibrillation therapy occurred in FD. Although both FD and HCM had similar risk percentages according to the ESC calculator, active troponitis in FD was double that of HCM.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
The Wearable Cardioverter/ Defibrillator: retrospective analysis of efficacy, safety and adherence
Authors: Ehmsen J , Keller H , Stoellberger C 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
The use of the Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator (WCD) is recommended in national, European and American guidelines. However, there are almost exclusively data from the manufacturer's own data network. Independent data on the experience with the WCD are rare.

Objective
The aim of the retrospective study from one cardiologic department was to record efficiency, safety and compliance of the WCD.

Patients and methods
The study included all patients, to whom a WCD was described between 1.11.2010 and 1.5.2018 at one cardiologic department. Clinical data were obtained from the patients' records and the data about the WCD from the information network of the manufacturer.

Results
This study enrolled 66 patients, 51 males (77%) and 15 females (23%). The median age was 55 years (IQR: 45–63). They suffered from ischemic cardiomyopathy (n=33; 49%), dilated cardiomyopathy (n=12; 18%), myocarditis (n=7; 11%), explantation of an implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (ICD; n=5; 8%) and other indications (n=6; 9%).
The median wearing time of the WCD was 73 days (interquartile range-IQR: 39–126), with median daily use of 22.91 h (IQR: 19.58–23.61). Among 38 patients with LVEF ≤35%, LVEF improved to ≥35% in 19 patients (50%) during WCD therapy. Over 1600 times the WCD detected a VT falsely. Four patients (8%) suffered from 212 non-sustained VT. One patient was successfully shocked because of ventricular fibrillation (appropriate shock rate: 1.5%). There were no inappropriate shocks. All patients, who wore the WCD, survived and one patient died when he did not wear the WCD.
At the end of therapy 32 patients (48%) received an ICD. In terms of wearing time and events (shocks, arrhythmias, artifacts) there were no significant differences between patients receiving ICD and those who did not receive an ICD. Patients who received an ICD had a significantly lower LVEF after 3 months than patients who did not receive an ICD.

Conclusion
Our data confirm, that the WCD is safe and that the patients, who wear a WCD, have a high adherence. More than half of the patients with reduced LVEF improved their systolic function during WCD therapy, thus obviating the need for ICD implantation. Questions about the effectiveness of the detection algorithm remained open.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
Electrocardiographic markers of atrial cardiomyopathy predict ineffective cardioversion: a FinCV2 cohort study
Authors: Relander A , Hellman T , Vasankari T , Nuotio I , Airaksinen K.E.J , Kiviniemi T 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Rhythm control using electrical cardioversion (CV) is a common treatment strategy for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). However, little is known about electrocardiographic (ECG) markers predicting CV failure and AF recurrence.

Methods
This study included 726 patients who underwent a CV for AF lasting &gt;48h in a referral hospital. We analysed markers of atrial cardiomyopathy in post-CV sinus rhythm ECGs and compared them with CV failure and AF recurrence rates within 30 days after CV as well as their combination (ineffective CV). Of those with failed CV the most recent sinus rhythm ECG was used.

Results
CV was unsuccessful in 66 out of 726 patients (9.09%). Advanced interatrial block (IAB) defined as P-wave duration ≥120ms and biphasic morphology in inferior (II, III and aVF) leads (OR 3.96, 95%-CI 2.09–7.52, p&lt;0.001) was an independent predictor for CV failure. Within 30 days after CV, AF recurred in 214 (32.4%) patients. Advanced IAB (OR 2.10, 95%-CI 1.19–3.72, p=0.011) was an independent predictor for AF recurrence. In total CV was ineffective (CV failure or AF recurrence) 280 of 726 times (38.6%). Advanced IAB (OR 2.72, 95%-CI 1.64–4.51, p&lt;0.001) was an independent predictor for ineffective CV. Partial IAB categorized as P-wave duration ≥120ms with no biphasic morphology did not predict any end points.

Conclusions
Advanced IAB predicts CV inefficacy. This study identified ECG markers of atrial cardiomyopathy for clinical use in CV patient selection.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): This study research was funded by grants from the Finnish Medical Foundation, the Finnish Foundation for Cardiovascular Research, State Clinical Research Fund of Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland, Finnish Cardiac Society, the Emil Aaltonen Foundation, and the Maud Kuistila Foundation.
Salvage DC ablation of ventricular tachycardia following failed RF attempts
Authors: Bailin S , Kaushik N , Kocherla C 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a frequent clinical necessity. Modification of ventricular substrate can usually be achieved by radiofrequency ablation (RF). We present 4 cases of failed RF for recurrent VT. Two patients had multiple RF failures, one patient had in-procedure failure, and one patient had multiple RF attempts and a failed alcohol ablation (pt4).

Objective
To evaluate success of DC ablation after failed RF

Methods
A 6 Fr 4mm tip steerable ablation catheter, was placed at the site felt to be critical for the circuit following mapping (earliest activation, mid-diastolic, fractionated, site of concealed entrainment, or ventricular breakout). Two connection cables were utilized, one to the recording/mapping system, and one connected to an external biphasic defibrillator (DC). The DF was connected with one pad anterior chest and the other connected by the cable to electrode pins 1 and 2 folded within the second pad. The electrodes were secured by placing a hemostat on the pad. DC energy (360j) was delivered synchronized by electrodes 1–2

Results
During follow-up 3 months to 1 year, no recurrent VT was observed. 3 patients received a total of 4 DC pulses, while the pt4 received 16 (RV and LV septum), complicated by prolonged hypotension. No other complications were observed. Figure shows broad RV breakout from the septum in pt4.

Conclusion
In patients with RF refractory VT, DC ablation may be safely used and in this limited series, provides long-term success. Interestingly, biphasic energy did not induce transient hypotension in 3 of 4 pts. DC ablation should be considered following failed RF, especially when mid-myocardial origin suspected.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
Fluoroless catheter ablation of supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias in pregnancy: validation of a standard approach in a large multicenter registry
Authors: Stec S , Styczkiewicz K , Sledz J , Sledz A , Chrabaszcz M , Karbarz D , Wozniak I , Mlynarczyk K 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
An increasing experience in zero- (ZF) or near-zero fluoroscopy catheter ablation (CA) supports the implementation of early, fluoroless approach for recurrent, symptomatic arrhythmias in pregnancy.

Purpose
The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of CA with a standardized ZF approach during pregnancy.

Methods
Data were derived from a large prospective multicenter registry (ELEKTRO-RARE-A-CAREgistry). Between 2012 and 2019, more than 2655 CA procedures were performed in women in intention-to-treat using a ZF fluoroscopy approach. The procedures were performer using: 1) femoral access, 2) double-catheter technique, without intracardiac echocardiography, 3) electroanatomic mapping system (Ensite, Abbott, USA) for mapping and navigation, 4) conscious, light sedation. Shared decision making approach was applied, including a pregnancy heart team consultations.

Results
The study group consisted of 18 pregnant women (mean age: 30.3±5.0 years; range: 19–38 years; mean gestational age during CA: 21.4±9.2 weeks; range: 7–36 weeks). All pregnant women had no overt structural heart disease. Among women in reproductive age, pregnant women referred for ZF-CA approach accounted for approximately 2% of procedures. In the study group, the major indications for
CA included: AVNRT (n=10); OAVRT/WPW (n=2); focal idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia (n=4), AT (n=1) and AF (n=1). Five women had double substrate for CA. In AF case general anesthesia and transesophageal echocardiography were used to monitor ZF-transseptal puncture and right-sided pulmonary vein isolation. All procedures were successfully completed without fluoroscopy, and without serious maternal or fetal complications. The procedure and ablation application times were 55.0±30.0 min and 394±338 s, respectively. In one patient second procedure for idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia was postponed after delivery.

Conclusion
Implementation of pregnancy heart team and a standard fluoroless protocol for CA in daily electrophysiological practice allowed an early, safe, and effective CA of maternal supraventricular tachycardia and idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias in pregnancy.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
High incidence of left atrial dysfunction and low voltage zone in patients requiring multiple atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Oka T , Yoshimoto I , Koyama Y , Tanaka K , Hirao Y , Tanaka N , Okada M , Kitagaki R , Okamura A , Iwakura K , Fujii K , Inoue K 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
While multiple catheter ablation for recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) is effective for the maintenance of sinus rhythm, some of patients have ablation-refractory AF. Left atrial (LA) dysfunction and the presence of low voltage zone (LVZ) are associated with recurrence after AF ablation. The association between recurrence and LA dysfunction/ LVZ among patients undergoing multiple AF ablation remains unclear.

Purpose
We aimed to compare (i)LA function, (ii)the prevalence of LVZ among patients undergoing first, second and third or more AF ablation procedures. Further, we investigated whether LA dysfunction and LVZ are associated with recurrence after multiple procedures.

Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 460 patients undergoing AF ablation procedures including first, second and third or more sessions from January 2017 to October 2019 in our institute. Before each session, 256-slice MDCT was performed under sinus rhythm to measure pre-ablation LA emptying fraction (LAEF) as the representative of LA function. At the end of each session, we checked the presence of LVZ, which was defined as regions where bipolar peak-to-peak voltage was &lt;0.5mV. All patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). If necessary, additional ablation (e.g. linear ablation, non-PV foci ablation and LVZ ablation) was performed.

Results
Out of 460 sessions, 295 were first (follow-up years: 1.5 [0.8, 2.0]), 134 were second (1.0 [0.5, 1.8]), and 31 were third or more sessions (1.2 [0.7, 2.0]). As the number of sessions increased, the recurrence rate was increased (19% vs. 31% vs. 61%, first vs. second vs. ≥third, P&lt;0.0001), LAEF decreased (39.7±10.5% vs. 32.6±10.1% vs. 25.3±11.8%, P&lt;0.0001) and the incidence of LVZ increased (18% vs. 34% vs. 68%, P&lt;0.0001) (Figure 1). In patients with recurrence (N=104) after multiple ablation (second or more sessions), LAEF was lower and the prevalence of LVZ was higher than those without recurrence (N=61) (LAEF: 27.3±10.3% vs. 33.5±10.5%, with vs. without, P=0.0003; LVZ: 57% vs. 31%, P=0.0014).

Conclusions
As the number of sessions increased, the recurrence rate was increased. The prevalence of LA dysfunction and LVZ was high in patients requiring multiple ablation procedure. LA dysfunction and LVZ possibly reflect arrhytmogenic substrate causing recurrence of ablation-refractory AF. We should carefully consider repeated AF ablation in patients with severe LA dysfunction and extensive LVZ.
Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
Catheter ablation in adults with congenital heart disease: a 15-year perspective from a tertiary center
Authors: Waldmann V , Amet D , Zhao A , Ladouceur M , Karsenty C , Maltret A , Pontnau F , Legendre A , Soulat G , Lavergne T , Bonnet D , Jouven X , Vouhe P , Marijon E , Iserin L 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
With the growing population of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD), the number of catheter ablation procedures is expected to increase over time.

Purpose
We aimed to describe temporal trends in volume and outcomes of catheter ablation procedures in ACHD patients in a large tertiary center.

Methods
Retrospective observational study including all consecutive ACHD patients undergoing catheter ablation in a tertiary reference center over a 15-year period. Acute procedural success rate (including complete success in case of non-inducibility of any arrhythmia at the end of the procedure) as well as freedom from recurrence at 12 months were analyzed.

Results
From November 2004 to November 2019, 302 catheter ablations in 221 ACHD patients (43.6±15.0 years, 58.9% males) were performed. The annual number of catheter ablation increased progressively from 4 to 60 by year (p&lt;0.001). Intra-atrial reentrant tachycardia/focal atrial tachycardia was the most common targeted arrhythmia (n=217, 71.9%). Over the study period, acute procedural success rate increased from 45.0% to 93.3% (p&lt;0.001), including complete acute procedural success from 45.0% to 88.1% (p&lt;0.001) (Figure 1). The use of irrigated catheters (30.0% to 94.8%, p&lt;0.001), 3D-mapping systems (60.0% to 96.3%, p&lt;0.001), contact force catheters (0.0% to 91.9%, &lt;0.001), and high-density mapping (0.0% to 71.9%, p&lt;0.01) increased significantly. Use of irrigated catheters (OR=3.96, 95% CI: 1.79–8.55), 3D-mapping system (OR=3.55, 95% CI: 1.62–7.55), contact force catheters (OR=3.46, 95% CI: 1.71–7.25), and high-density mapping (OR=3.85, 95% CI: 1.60–7.26) were associated with acute procedural success. The rate of freedom from any recurrence at 12 months increased from 29.4% to 66.2% (p=0.001). Seven (2.3%) non-fatal complications occurred.

Conclusions
The number of catheter ablation procedures in ACHD patients has considerably increased over the last 15 years. Advances in ablative technologies appear to be associated with a low rate of complications and a significant improvement in acute and midterm outcomes.
Evolution of acute procedural success

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
The Predictive Value of PRECISE-DAPT Score for the Thrombogenic Milieu in Left Atrium and Left Atrial Appendix in the Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Planned AF Ablation
Authors: Konte H.C , Cetin E.H , Ozbay M.B , Yaman N.M , Ozeke O , Cay S , Aras D 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Introduction and aim
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in the clinical practice. In AF patients, the assessment of thromboembolic risk and the initiation of anticoagulant therapy to appropriate patients play critical role in management of these patients. Current guidelines recommend to use CHA2DS2VASC score in evaluation of thromboembolic risk. However, the effectiveness of this score has been questioned recently. This situation requires new risk indicators. Although PRECISE-DAPT score was initially constituted to determine the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with PCI, current studies have reported that this score may also predict thrombotic events. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PRECISE-DAPT score to predict thrombogenic milieu by comparing with CHA2DS2VASC score in non valvular AF patients whom referred TEE before AF ablation procedure.

Method
428 patients were included in the study. The presence of grade 2–3 SEC and thrombus in left atrium and/or left atrial appendage were accepted as thrombogenic milieu. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of thrombogenic milieu. In addition, we constituted three groups as grade 0–1 SEC group, grade 2–3 SEC group and thrombus group to evaluate the parameters in detail.

Results
Grade 2–3 SEC was found in 36 patients and thrombus was detected in 24 patients. 60 patients was included to the thrombogenic positive (artı) group while 368 patients was included to thrombogenic milieu (−) group. PRECISE-DAPT and CHA2DS2VASC scores were higher in thrombogenic positive (artı) group In multivariate logistic regression analysis, PRECISE-DAPT score was found to be an independent predictor of thrombogenic milieu (OR: 1.145, CI:1.083–1.211, p&lt;0,001). The comparison of ROC curves was shown that PRECISE DAPT score was higher area under curve than CHA2DS2VASC score, 0,753 and 0,649 respectively.

Conclusion
In our study, in patients performed TEE before AF ablation, PRECISE-DAPT score was found to be an independent predictor for thrombogenic milieu presented as high grade SEC and thrombus, there by thromboembolic risk. PRECISE-DAPT score seems to be more effective than CHA2DS2VASC score. In AF patients, PRECISE-DAPT score may provide additional benefit in assessment of thromboembolic risk, thus enabling a more individual and accurate anticoagulation decision in these patients.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
Impact of catheter ablation for atrial flutter on mortality and hospital readmission rates in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Thakkar S , Jani C , P Patel H , Arora S , Patel R , Kumar A , Gonzalez J , Deshmukh A , Rao M 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
The availability of real-world data regarding the impact of the catheter ablation in patients with concomitant atrial flutter (AFL) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is limited.

Methods
2016 and 2017 National Readmission Database (NRD) was subjected to appropriate ICD-10 codes to identify and extract patients having coexistent atrial flutter and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction including who had undergone ablation. At 1 year, all-cause mortality was utilized as the primary outcome while readmissions due to AFL, heart failure (HF) and any other causes were designated as secondary outcomes. Kaplan Meier curves were used for a time to event analysis. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to generate hazard ratios.

Results
Out of a total 6099 patients with AFL and HFpEF, 906 (14.85%) underwent catheter ablation. At 1 year all cause mortality (3%, vs. 4.4%, HR: 0.661, 95% CI: 0.444–0.985, p=0.042) and readmissions due to AFL (2.3% vs. 5.3%, HR: 0.424, 95% CI: 0.272–0.661, p&lt;0.001) were significantly less among ablation group. Readmission due to HF (9.3% vs. 9.7%, HR: 0.938, 95% CI: 0.745–1.182, p=0.587) and other causes (37% vs.40.3%, HR: 0.926, 95% CI: 0.825–1.040, p=0.193) did not show any significant difference in outcomes at the end of 1 year.

Conclusion
The utilization of catheter ablation amongst AFL patients with concomitant HFpEF showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality and readmission due to AFL. However, it did not show any significant changes in readmissions due to HF or other causes at the end of one year.
Outcomes of AFL and HFpEF

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None
Conduction gaps after pulmonary vein isolation due to high contact force ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Takahashi S , Mine T , Kawai H , Takai K , Yoshikawa F , Takada M , Fujita K , Nishibori Y , Maruyama T 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) with high contact force (CF) has been reported to lead to the gaps after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), and the appearance of the gaps depends on the site in the left atrium (LA).

Purpose
The aim of this study is to clarify the relationship between the gaps appearance and high CF.

Methods
In the clinical study, 74 consecutive patients (39 males, age 71±9, 46 with paroxysmal AF) underwent conventional PVI with a point-by-point radiofrequency (RF) ablation using a CF sensing catheter (TactiCath SETM). RF energy (J), number of RF point, Lesion index (LSI), force-time integral (FTI), average CF (g), and the degree of LA depression with high CF were evaluated. In the experimental study (figure), the relationship between the ablation area and the degree of depression with high CF using bovine left ventricular wall.

Results
In the clinical study, the gaps were found in 175 of 1182 sites after first path PVI ablation. The CF in the gap sites was higher than without the gap sites in RPV roof, anterior RSPV and anterior RPV carina (18.9±6.8 vs 15.0±5.7g p=0.0262, 26.4±11.6 vs 19.5±6.0g p=0.0029, 22.7±6.4 vs 19.1±5.5g, p=0.0161). Meanwhile, there were no differences in RF energy, number of RF point, LSI, FTI. High CF (≥30g) showed a depression of 3 mm or more in only RPV roof and anterior RPV (figure). In the experimental study, the ablation range narrowed as the indentation deepened with more than 30g CF (r=0.6417, p=0.0625).

Conclusion
Catheter ablation for AF with high contact force might lead to the gaps in RPV roof and anterior RPV site by the reduction of the ablation area due to depression caused by the pressure.
Extension of each contact force

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: None