Echocardiographic Markers Research Articles

Impact of Adrenalectomy on Diastolic Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients with Primary Aldosteronism.

Poor prognostic cardiac function is known among some patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). However, studies with echocardiograms on whether the normalization of aldosterone after laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LADX) improves myocardial hypertrophy and diastolic cardiac dysfunction have been inadequate. Between August 2009 and December 2021, 147 patients with unilateral PA who underwent pre- and post-LADX echocardiography at a single center were enrolled in this retrospective study. We evaluated the cardiac impact of LADX by comparing patients who demonstrated complete clinical success (CS) with those who demonstrated partial or absent CS. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for not obtaining complete CS were calculated using binomial logistic regression analysis for clinically significant items among the pre- and postoperative clinical and echocardiographic markers. Overall, 47 (29%) and 104 (71%) patients had complete and partial or absent CS, respectively. Compared to patients with complete CS, patients with partial CS or without CS tended to have preoperative low early to late diastolic transmitral flow velocity (E/A) (< 0.8 cm/s) (41% vs. 21%, P < 0.05) and postoperative supranormal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (> 70%) (37% vs. 21%, P < 0.05). Furthermore, laparoscopic adrenalectomy improved the low and high echocardiographic values of E/A and LVEF, respectively, in both groups. The risk factors for not reaching complete CS were male sex (OR 3.42), low preoperative E/A (OR 3.11), and postoperative supranormal LVEF (OR 3.17). Although low preoperative E/A and postoperative supranormal LVEF are associated with poor clinical outcomes, LADX can improve diastolic cardiac function in patients with PA.

Fibrinolytic Status and Risk of Death After Acute Pulmonary Embolism.

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a heterogeneous disease process with variable presentation and outcomes. The endogenous fibrinolytic system is a complex framework of regulatory pathways that maintains homeostasis by dissolving overabundant thrombi. We sought to investigate phenotypic profiles of the endogenous fibrinolytic system among patients presenting with acute PE and their impact on mortality. We enrolled all consecutive patients with acute PE in our institutional Pulmonary Embolism Response Team registry. We collected blood samples at the time of PE diagnosis and analyzed concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), and alpha-2-antiplasmin (A2A). We assessed the association of concentration of fibrinolytic inhibitors and 1-year all-cause mortality and various echocardiographic markers of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. There is significant variability of PAI-1, A2A, and TAFI concentrations across the spectrum of PE risk profiles with high PAI-1, low TAFI, and low A2A (herein referred to as a high-risk biomarker profile) correlating with worse PE severity. High-risk biomarker profile correlated with high-risk echocardiographic features of RV dysfunction, including increased RV/left ventricular (LV) ratio, low tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, and low right ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral. Higher-risk biomarker profile was able to discriminate and independently identify patients at high risk of all-cause mortality (Group 2 HR 6 95% CI 1.3-27.8, Group 3 HR 12, 95% CI 1.7-86). Further studies are needed to assess the exact pathophysiological link between fibrinolytic status and poor outcome after acute PE and to ascertain the impact of anti-inhibitors of the fibrinolytic system on response to therapy and outcomes after acute PE.

Left Atrial Wall Motion Velocity Assessed during Atrial Fibrillation Predicts Sinus Rhythm Maintenance after Electrical Cardioversion in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation.

Reduced left atrial wall motion velocity measured during AF (LAWMV) indicates left atrial remodeling. The aim of this study was to investigate whether LAWMV assessed with tissue Doppler imaging during atrial fibrillation (AF) predicts sinus rhythm (SR) maintenance after direct current cardioversion (DCCV) for persistent AF. The study included 126 patients who underwent DCCV and were followed for 12 months. At 12 months, maintained SR was reported in 55 patients (43.7%). We noted that LAWMV was higher in patients with maintained SR at 12 months than in those with recurrent AF (3.69 ± 0.84 vs. 2.86 ± 1.09; p < 0.001). In the multivariable regression model containing echocardiographic variables, LAWMV was an independent predictor of SR maintenance at 12 months (odds ratio [OR] 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-2.69; p = 0.017). Similarly, LAWMW was an independent predictor of SR maintenance at 12 months (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.19-2.77; p = 0.006) in the multivariate regression model containing both echocardiographic and clinical variables. LAWMV predicts SR maintenance after DCCV for persistent AF. Echocardiographic markers of left atrial mechanical remodeling are better at predicting SR maintenance than markers of structural remodeling.

Quality of glycemic control has significant impact on myocardial mechanics in type 1 diabetes mellitus

The potential associations between disease duration, glycemic control, and the echocardiographic markers of the myocardial mechanics were investigated in asymptomatic T1DM patients. Seventy T1DM patients (38.2 ± 11.7 years, 46 female) and 30 healthy volunteers were investigated. Besides the conventional and tissue Doppler measurements, left ventricular global longitudinal (GLS) and circumferential (GCS) strain as well as left and right atrial strain parameters were measured with 2D speckle tracking technique. Median HbA1c level was 7.4 (1.8)%. Even when added age and hypertension to the model, current HbA1c level remained independent predictor of left ventricular GLS (p = 0.002), GCS (p < 0.001), mitral e’ (p = 0.018), tricuspid e’ (p = 0.018) and left (p = 0.039) and right atrial conduit strain (p = 0.047) in multiple linear regression models. Correlations between disease duration and the echocardiographic variables lost their significance in multiple models. In patients with a combination of HbA1c ≤ 7.4% and no hypertension, echocardiographic findings did not differ from those in healthy volunteers. Patients with HbA1c > 7.4% and no hypertension and especially patients with coexisting hypertension and HbA1c > 7.4%, exhibited significantly impaired myocardial mechanics. Quality of glycemic control has a significant impact on myocardial mechanics in T1DM patients. Regarding disease duration this relationship was not proved.

Echocardiographic Markers of Mild Pulmonary Hypertension are not Correlated with Worse Respiratory Outcomes in Infants with Bronchiolitis.

Pulmonary hypertension has been reported as a crucial factor in the pathophysiology of severe bronchiolitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) in patients with bronchiolitis and to analyze their correlation with clinical outcomes. This prospective cohort study examined children admitted for bronchiolitis. PAP was assessed by right ventricle (RV) acceleration/ejection time ratio (AT/ET), isovolumic relaxation time, eccentricity index, and the presence of a pulmonary systolic notch. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) was considered if at least two altered parameters were present. Severity of clinical course was established by higher N-terminal (NT)-prohormone BNP (NT-proBNP) values, the need for positive pressure respiratory support (PPRS), and the duration of hospital admission. One hundred sixty-nine children were included in analysis. Sixty-eight patients (40%) required PPRS, and those patients had increased NT-proBNP values and worse tricuspid annular systolic excursion (TAPSE) compared to mild cases (p < 0.001and p < 0.001, respectively). Twenty-two (13%) cases had at least two altered parameters of PAP and met criteria for presumed PH, with no differences in NT-proBNP values, TAPSE, need for PPRS or hospital length of stay compared to normal PAP group (p = 0.98, p = 0.07, p = 0.94 and p = 0.64, respectively). We found no correlation between altered RV AT/ET and worse cardiac function, NT-proBNP values or hospital length of stay. In our cohort, the presence of echocardiographic findings of PH were not associated with worse clinical outcomes. Patients with severe bronchiolitis had higher values ​​of NT-proBNP but, interestingly, no clear association with PH.

Cryptogenic stroke. Part 3: atrial cardiopathy and silent atrial fibrillation

Atrial cardiopathy (AC) and silent atrial fibrillation (AF) are potential causes of embolic cryptogenic stroke (embolic stroke of undetermined source, ESUS) timely diagnosis of which can significantly change the direction of secondary prevention and reduce the risk of repeated brain catastrophe. The article discusses clinical and radiological markers of cardioembolism, the concept of atrial cardiopathy, its electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and serum markers, as well as the possibility of drug prophylaxis of recurrent stroke. The most applicable AC features in daily operation are the ECG data (p-wave terminal force in lead V1 &gt; 5000 μV x ms, supraventricular extrasystoles and advanced interatrial block), 24-hour ECG monitoring (≥ 480 supraventricular extrasystoles per 24-hour, paroxysms of supraventricular tachycardia ≥ 20 complexes), transthoracic (diameter of left atrium &gt; 40 mm, index of diameter of left atrium ≥ 3 cm/m2, index of volume of left atrium &gt; 34 ml/m2) and transesophageal echocardiography (spontaneous echo contrast phenomenon, blood flow rate in LA appendage &lt;20 cm/s) and NT-proBNP concentration &gt; 250 pg/ml. An individual, interdisciplinary decision to prescribe an anticoagulant when combined: (1) the presence of structural and functional AC markers, (2) cardioembolic pattern of a cerebral infarction or intracranial artery occlusion by visualization data and (3) high thromboembolic risk and probability of detection of AF on assessment scales (CHA2DS2-VASc, AF-ESUS and C2HEST). The greatest benefit of prescribing anticoagulant therapy can be obtained by patients with recurrent ESUS in whom sufficient secondary prevention and expressed AC, typical cardioembolism imaging pattern and high risk of thromboembolic events have already been achieved.

Left ventricular function before and after percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in preterm infants.

Definitive closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is associated with significant changes in the loading conditions of the left ventricle (LV), which may lead to cardiovascular and respiratory instability. The objective of the study was to evaluate targeted neonatal echocardiography (TnECHO) characteristics and the clinical course of preterm infants ≤2 kg undergoing percutaneous PDA closure. Retrospective cohort study of prospectively acquired pre- and post-closure TnECHOs to assess hemodynamic changes. Cardiorespiratory parameters in the first 24 h following PDA closure were also evaluated. Fifty patients were included with a mean age of 30.6 ± 9.6 days and weight of 1188 ± 280 g. LV global longitudinal strain decreased from -20.6 ± 2.6 to -14.9 ± 2.9% (p < 0.001) after 1 h. There was a decrease in LV volume loading, left ventricular output, LV systolic and diastolic parameters. Cardiorespiratory instability occurred in 24 (48%) [oxygenation failure in 44%] but systolic hypotension and/or need for cardiovascular medications was only seen in 6 (12%). Patients with instability had worse baseline respiratory severity score and lower post-closure early diastolic strain rates. Percutaneous PDA closure leads to a reduction in echocardiography markers of LV systolic/diastolic function. Post-closure cardiorespiratory instability is characterized primarily by oxygenation failure and may relate to impaired diastolic performance. Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure leads to a reduction in echocardiography markers of left ventricular volume loading, cardiac output, and left ventricular systolic/diastolic function. Post-procedural cardiorespiratory instability is characterized primarily by oxygenation failure. Post-procedural cardiorespiratory instability may relate to impaired diastolic performance.

Abstract 12263: Lack of Diversity in Aortic Stenosis Progression Cohorts: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Aortic stenosis (AS) is characterized by highly variable progression rates. Differential rates of AS progression have been proposed to explain apparent disparities in the treatment of severe AS. However, the evidence supporting this claim is uncertain. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of MEDLINE and EMBASE from 1989 to 2022 to identify prospective cohort studies of AS hemodynamic progression. We evaluated the pooled patient demographics, AS severity, baseline and mean annual changes in echocardiographic markers, and prognostic factors. Results: We identified 32 prospective cohort studies. Overall, 11,432 patients were followed for 27 +/- 15 months on average. The average age was 67 +/- 8 years. The average percent female was 36 +/- 14%. Race was reported in only 4 (13%) cohorts; the average proportion of white patients was 93.9 +/- 6.1%. The average baseline hemodynamic severity was consistent with aortic sclerosis, mild AS, moderate AS, and severe AS in 3 (9.4%), 8 (25.0%), 19 (59.3%), and 2 (6.3%) studies, respectively. Overall, average baseline and annual changes in echocardiographic values were: peak aortic jet velocity (Vmax) 3.21 +/- 0.61 m/s (0.20 +/- 0.09 m/s/yr); aortic valve area (AVA) 1.23 +/- 0.31 cm2 (-0.09 +/- 0.05 cm2/yr); and mean aortic valve gradient (MG) 26.2 +/- 7.6 mmHg (3.9 +/- 1.6 mmHg/yr). Age, sex, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and smoking were not associated with AS progression in &gt;75% cohorts. Baseline Vmax and MG were associated with greater AS progression in 6 cohorts (75%). Baseline aortic valve calcification (AVC) and AVA were consistently associated with greater AS progression in 9 cohorts (100%). One cohort found that women have a greater ΔMG for a given level of AVC. A univariate analysis of race in one cohort showed that African American ethnicity was associated with lower risk of progression from normal aortic valves to incident AS. Conclusion: There is limited representation of women and ethnic minorities in prospective AS progression cohorts. Active recruitment of diverse populations in these cohorts is needed. The available clinical evidence provides limited support for claims of differential progression as the cause of racial disparities in AS treatment.

Abstract 14516: Systolic Slope of the Outflow Cannula Predicts Heart Failure Readmission Risk in Patients With Heartmate 3 Left Ventricular Assist Device

Introduction: Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) may lead to left ventricular (LV) recovery in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) via LV offloading and subsequent positive remodeling. Current echocardiographic markers of LV recovery in LVAD patients are not well defined. The peak systolic slope, also known as systolic acceleration, of the outflow cannula has recently been shown to be a marker of underlying LV contractility and a tool to assess for LV recovery. We hypothesized that variations in the systolic slope would predict heart failure (HF) admissions. Methods: A total of 63 unique patients with LVAD at The University of Chicago Medical Center had HeartMate 3 (HM3) outflow tract Doppler signals obtained during routine transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) of suitable quality between 2015 and 2022. Systolic acceleration, systolic deceleration, diastolic acceleration, and the presence of flow reversal were measured. Mortality and HF admissions were recorded up to one year from the date of the TTE. Results: Increased systolic acceleration through the HM3 outflow cannula was associated with a decreased 1-year HF admission risk (352.8 [241.9, 515.8] cm/sec 2 vs 249.2 [164.0, 316.5] cm/sec 2 among readmitted patients, p = 0.03; Figure 1A). Systolic deceleration also predicted 1-year HF admission (-318.6 [-477.9, -244.0] cm/sec 2 vs -217.8 [-304.5, -188.8] cm/sec 2 among readmitted patients, p = 0.04; Figure 1B). Other variables, including the presence of flow reversal and diastolic acceleration, were not significantly associated with HF admission risk. Conclusions: Systolic acceleration, which reflects LV contractility, and systolic deceleration, which represents LV relaxation, are predictive of HF admission in patients with the HM3 LVAD.

Coronavirus disease 2019 and cardiovascular disease: what we have learnt during the last 2 years.

Coronavirus disease 2019 and cardiovascular disease: what we have learnt during the last 2 years.

The impact of complete versus partial preservation of the sub-valvular apparatus on left ventricular function in mitral valve replacement.

In mitral valve replacement (MVR), sudden increases in afterload and disruption of the annular-chordal-papillary-left-ventricular wall causes left ventricular(LV) dysfunction in the early postoperative period. Preservation of the posterior mitral leaflet apparatus (MVR-P) has a favorable outcome on LV function. However, there is paucity of data on the impact of complete preservation of the sub-valvular apparatus (MVR-C). We investigated the impact of MVR-P and MVR-C on baseline and 3-months postoperative LV ejection fraction (EF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS). We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 29 MVR-P and 19 MVR-C patients with complete echocardiography data at our unit, who were operated between 2008 and 2017. Between-group changes in LVEF and GLS were compared using independent sample T-test. Median age was 59 years (IQR 50-69 years). Baseline LVEF was 58% (51%- 60%). Baseline GLS was -18.4 (-21.2 to -15.5). There were no significant between-group differences between all baseline demographics and echocardiographic markers. There was significantly higher absolute postoperative LVEF in MVR-C patients (p = 0.029). There was also significant worsening in LVEF (p = 0.0121) and GLS (p < 0.0001) after MVR-P and not MVR-C, suggesting no reduction in LV function post-MVR-C but a reduction post-MVR-P. There was significantly less postoperative worsening of GLS per patient in MVR-C group as compared to the MVR-P group (p = 0.023), indicating better preservation of LV function. There was also a smaller decline in LVEF per patient in the MVR-C as compared to the MVR-P group, although not statistically significant (p = 0.23). MVR with complete preservation of the sub-valvular apparatus shows a favorable impact on the longitudinal function of the heart at 3 months. Further studies with larger patient numbers are indicated to investigate the long-term results of this surgical approach.

Left ventricular stroke volume index following transcatheter aortic valve replacement is an early predictor of 1-year survival.

Adverse cardiac events are common following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Our aim was to investigate the low left ventricular stroke volume index (LVSVI) 30 days after TAVR as an early echocardiographic marker of survival. Steady-state (30-day) LVSVI after TAVR is associated with 1-year mortality. A single-center retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing TAVR from 2017 to 2019. Baseline and 30-day post-TAVR echocardiographic LVSVI were calculated. Patients were stratified by pre-TAVR transaortic gradient, surgical risk, and change in transvalvular flow following TAVR. This analysis focuses on 238 patients treated with TAVR. The 1-year mortality rate was 9% and 124 (52%) patients had normal flow post-TAVR. Of those with pre-TAVR low flow, 67% of patients did not normalize LVSVI at 30 days. The 30-day normal flow was associated with lower 1-year mortality when compared to low flow (4% vs. 14%, p = .007). This association remained significant after adjusting for known predictors of risk (adjusted odds ratio [OR] of 3.45, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-11.63 [per 1 ml/m2 decrease], p = .046). Normalized transvalvular flow following TAVR was associated with reduced mortality (8%) when compared to those with persistent (15%) or new-onset low flow (12%) (p = .01). LVSVI at 30 days following TAVR is an early echocardiographic predictor of 1-year mortality and identifies patients with worse intermediate outcomes. More work is needed to understand if this short-term imaging marker might represent a novel therapeutic target.

Left ventricular diastolic abnormalities in vegetarians compared with non-vegetarians.

Vegetarians have less hypertension, diabetes mellitus and obesity, hence possibly lower risk of congestive heart failure (HF). We studied associations between vegetarian diets and echocardiographic markers of stage B HF. In a cross-sectional study, dietary pattern was ascertained by a validated FFQ. Echocardiograms were interpreted using standardised criteria. Participants were free-living subjects in Southern California who were older Adventist Health Study-2 cohort members. After exclusions, 133 subjects aged >60 years were enrolled. Their mean age was 72·7 (sd 8·7) years, 48·1 % were female, 32 % were African American and 71 % were vegetarian. Non-vegetarians had higher body weight (80·3 (sd 15·17) kg v. 71·3 (sd 16·2), P < 0·005), body surface area (1·92 (sd 0·24) m2v. 1·81 (sd 0·22) m2, P = 0·01) and prevalence of hypertension (63 % v. 47 %, P = 0·10). Adjusting for age, sex, race and physical activity, it is found that vegetarians had greater echocardiographic mitral annular e' velocity (a measure of left ventricular (LV) relaxation) 7·44 v. 6·48 (non-vegetarian) cm/s (P = 0·011) and a yet greater contrast when vegans (7·66 cm/s, P = 0·011) were the group of interest. The ratio mid-to-late-diastolic mitral flow velocity (E/A) was also higher in vegans compared with non-vegetarians (1·02 and 0·84, respectively, P = 0·008). Mediation analyses suggested these associations may be partly related to higher blood pressures and BMI in the non-vegetarians. We conclude that vegetarians, especially vegans, appear to have better LV relaxation and fewer diastolic abnormalities than others. As dietary exposure is modifiable, one may speculate pending further investigation about the potential for reduction of stage B HF and later mortality.

IMproving PULmonary hypertension Screening by Echocardiography: IMPULSE

BackgroundThe world symposium on pulmonary hypertension (PH) has proposed that PH be defined as a mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) > 20 mmHg as assessed by right heart catheterisation (RHC). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is an established screening tool used for suspected PH. International guidelines recommend a multi-parameter assessment of the TTE PH probability although effectiveness has not been established using real world data.Study aimsTo determine accuracy of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) TTE probability algorithm in detecting PH in patients attending a UK PH centre. To identify echocardiographic markers and revised algorithms to improve the detection of PH in those with low/intermediate BSE/ESC TTE PH probability.MethodsTTE followed by RHC (within 4 months after) was undertaken in patients for suspected but previously unconfirmed PH. BSE/ESC PH TTE probabilities were calculated alongside additional markers of right ventricular (RV) longitudinal and radial function, and RV diastolic function. A refined IMPULSE algorithm was devised and evaluated in patients with low and/or intermediate ESC/BSE TTE PH probability.ResultsOf 310 patients assessed, 236 (76%) had RHC-confirmed PH (average mPAP 42.8 ± 11.7). Sensitivity and specificity for detecting PH using the BSE/ESC recommendations was 89% and 68%, respectively. 36% of those with low BSE/ESC TTE probability had RHC-confirmed PH and BSE/ESC PH probability parameters did not differ amongst those with and without PH in the low probability group. Conversely, RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS) was lower in patients with vs. without PH in low BSE/ESC probability group (− 20.6 ± 4.1% vs − 23.8 ± 3.9%) (P < 0.02). Incorporating RVFWLS and TTE features of RV radial and diastolic function (RVFAC and IVRT) within the IMPULSE algorithm reduced false negatives in patients with low BSE/ESC PH probability by 29%. The IMPULSE algorithm had excellent specificity and positive predictive value in those with low (93%/80%, respectively) or intermediate (82%/86%, respectively) PH probability.ConclusionExisting TTE PH probability guidelines lack sensitivity to detect patients with milder haemodynamic forms of PH. Combining additional TTE makers assessing RV radial, longitudinal and diastolic function enhance identification of milder forms of PH, particularly in those who have a low BSE/ESC TTE PH probability.

Association between echocardiographic markers of pulmonary hypertension and short-term prognoses in patients with acute heart failure

Introduction: The prognostic value of pulmonary hypertension (PH) estimated by echocardiography in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is poorly studied. This study aimed to evaluate the association between echocardiographic markers of pulmonary hypertension and short-term prognoses in patients with AHF. Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with acute heart failure admitted to Golestan and Imam Khomeini hospitals in Ahvaz, Iran, in 2020. A total of 259 consecutive patients with ADHF underwent an echocardiographic evaluation to assess the probability of PH and right ventricular dysfunction (TAPSE&lt;16 mm). The patients were followed up for six months after hospital discharge, and their outcome was recorded. The probability of PH was estimated based on European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines for echocardiographic evaluation. Kaplan-Meier method was used to determine the cumulative survival rate and the Cox regression model to define the hazard ratio. Results: During six months of follow-up, the all-cause mortality rate was 118 (45.55%), including 106 cardiovascular deaths (40.92%).

Tricuspid regurgitation and left ventricular eccentricity as a measure of heart failure in the newborn patient with a vein of Galen malformation: illustrative case.

BACKGROUNDSuccessful management of a vein of Galen malformation (VoGM) in the newborn patient requires a highly coordinated team approach involving neonatologists, pediatric cardiologists, pediatric neurologists, neurosurgeons, and interventionalists. Indication and timing of catheter intervention are topics of ongoing debate.OBSERVATIONSThe authors highlighted two key echocardiographic markers believed to be practical indicators regarding the need for urgent catheter embolization in neonates with a VoGM. The first and preferred parameter was the tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) gradient, an estimate of pulmonary artery hypertension. If the TR gradient exceeds systolic blood pressure (suprasystemic pulmonary hypertension [PH], i.e., >60 mm Hg), urgent intervention should be considered in eligible newborns. The second parameter was the left ventricular end-systolic eccentricity index (EI), a newly emerging echocardiographic marker and indirect correlate of PH. As an alternative to the TR gradient, an increased eccentricity index (>1.6) suggests severe right heart compromise, requiring emergency catheter embolization of the malformation. Postoperatively, the progressive reduction of both the TR gradient and the EI correlated with recovery.LESSONSIn eligible newborns, urgent embolization of a VoGM is recommended in the presence of suprasystemic TR gradients and/or increased EI >1.6.

Systemic microvascular response to insulin is associated with risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in women with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Background Endothelial microvascular dysfunction (MD) is a key pathophysiologic mechanism for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) indeed can affect the endothelium of both peripheral and coronary microcirculation, thereby triggering systemic derangements as well as left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). Altered microvascular response to insulin is common in T2D but its clinical relevance and association with cardiovascular risk and particularly HFpEF remains unclear. Likewise, the involvement of systemic MD in early HFpEF and LVDD is uncertain. Finally, the influence of sex on MD and on its association with HFpEF needs further investigation to help understand the female predominance in HFpEF. Purpose We aimed to characterize systemic MD in T2D, and investigate its association with clinical and echocardiographic markers of LVDD/HFpEF. Further, we aimed to test for effect modification by sex in the association between MD and LVDD/HFpEF. Methods 152 prospectively enrolled participants (77 men, 75 women) from the Hoorn Diabetes Care System Cohort underwent in vivo evaluation of MD, echocardiography and blood sampling. MD was assessed by laser speckle contrast analysis combined with iontophoresis of insulin (Ins), acetylcholine (ACh) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The association between indices of MD and markers of LVDD/HFpEF was assessed by multivariable linear regression analysis adjusted for confounders. LVDD was defined as presence of cardiac structural and functional abnormalities, according to current recommendation. Probability of HFpEF was estimated with the H2PEFF score. Results Mean age was 65±6y, mean HbA1c 7.5±1.2%, 70.6% were asymptomatic. Comorbidity burden and biomarkers did not significantly differ between the sexes. Women had smaller LV mass index (82.8±18.1 vs 99.2±20.3 g/m2) and higher E/E' (13.4±4.4 vs 11.3±2.8) compared to men. Skin perfusion plateau after application of each substance was higher in women than men but no significant differences between sexes were observed in terms of relative perfusion change, calculated as 100% × ([Perfusion plateau − Baseline flow] / Baseline flow) for any of the substances. The relative perfusion change due to Ins was associated with the H2PEFF score, independently of cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular drug use (1% increase in perfusion associated to 0.07% decrease of the H2PEFF score). Stratified by sex, this association was present only in women (1% increase in perfusion associated to 0.10% decrease of the H2PEFF score). No significant associations were observed between perfusion change after ACh and SNP and H2PEFF score or between any MD indices and LVDD markers. Conclusions Impaired endothelial-mediated vasodilation in response to insulin confers a higher risk of HFpEF in women with T2D. In vivo measures of systemic MD could represent novel cardiovascular risk markers, for refined risk prediction of HFpEF. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Young Investigator award grant, Early HFpEF and ShePredicts programs, Hartstichting, The Netherlands.

Prognostic role of global work efficiency in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Abstract Background Non-invasive myocardial work (MW) quantification has emerged in the last years as an alternative echocardiographic tool for myocardial function assessment. Its role in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) after aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has not been adequately investigated. Purpose We aimed to evaluate MW indices as early echocardiographic markers of LV reverse remodeling within a month after TAVI and their prognostic value. Methods and results We conducted a single-centre prospective study, enrolling 88 consecutive patients (mean age 79.9±6.4 years, 35% males) with AS undergoing TAVI between April 2018 and 2021, selected from the EffecTAVI registry. Exclusion criteria were prior valve surgery, atrial fibrillation, left bundle branch block (LBBB) at baseline and and suboptimal quality of imaging. Echocardiographic assessment was performed before TAVI and at 30-day follow-up, including quantification of 2D global longitudinal strain (GLS), global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW) and global work efficiency (GWE). LV peak systolic pressure was estimated non-invasively from the sum of systolic blood pressure and trans-aortic mean gradient. One month after the procedure, there was a significant improvement of LV GLS (−18.4±4.2 vs −19.5±4.2%, before and after TAVI respectively, p=0.006), a significant reduction of GWI (2406±567 vs 1908±479 mmHg%, p&amp;lt;0.001), GCW (2783±616 vs 2202±463 mmHg%, p&amp;lt;0.001), and GWW (238±203 vs 173±127 mmHg%, p=0.002). Conversely, MWE did not change early after intervention (90.4±6.2 vs 91.4±5.1%, p=0.113). After TAVI, 32 patients (36.4%) developed LV dyssynchrony due to LBBB or pacemaker implantation. When the population was divided according to the presence or absence of LV dyssynchrony at 30-day follow-up, a significant reduction in GWW was found only in the those without dyssynchrony (241±229 vs 142±103 mmHg% before and after TAVI, p&amp;lt;0.001). Consistently, in this subgroup, MWE significantly improved after TAVI (90±7 vs 93±5%, p=0.001), while a trend of MWE reduction was observed in patients who developed dyssynchrony after TAVI (91±5 vs 89±5%, p=0.110). In the overall population, a 30-day value of MWE≤92% was associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular events (composite of all-cause death and rehospitalization for heart failure) at 1-year follow-up (29.5% vs 4.8%, long rank p=0.003). In multivariable Cox-regression analysis, adjusted for confounders, GWE after TAVI (HR: 0.892, CI: 0.817–0.974; p=0.011) was independently associated with events at 1-year follow-up. Conclusions In patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI a significant reduction of GWW and improvement of MWE can be detected only in those who do not develop LV dyssynchrony. In this setting, MWE≤92% early after TAVI is associated with poor outcome. Thus, MWE could represent an alternative tool for myocardial function assessment and prognostic evaluation in patients receiving TAVI. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Trans fatty acid blood levels and HFpEF phenotype: from the Aldo-DHF RCT

Abstract Background Prognosis in HFpEF is determined by risk factor control and treatment of comorbidities. Industrially processed TFA (IP-TFA) from partially hydrogenated oils have been linked to altered lipoprotein metabolism, endothelial dysfunction, increased biomarkers of inflammation and increased NTproBNP. In patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), associations of TFA blood levels with patient characteristics are unknown. Purpose To evaluate associations of blood TFA with cardiovascular risk factors, aerobic capacity and cardiac function in patients with HFpEF. Methods This is a secondary analysis from the Aldo-DHF-RCT. From 422 patients, individual blood TFA were analyzed at baseline in n=404 using the HS-Omega-3-Index® methodology. Patient characteristics were; 67±8 years, 53% female, NYHA II/III (87/13%), ejection fraction ≥50%, E/e' 7.1±1.5; median NT-proBNP 158 ng/L (IQR 82–298). Multiple linear regression analyses, using sex and age as covariates, were used to describe associations of TFA with metabolic phenotype, functional capacity, echocardiographic markers for left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF), and neurohumoral activation at baseline and after 12-months-follow-up (12mFU). To account for randomization group, all analyses were repeated as sensitivity analysis with group as covariate. A significance level of α=5% was used for all tests. As all tests were hypothesis generating without confirmatory interpretation, no correction was applied to counteract the problem of multiple comparisons. Results Higher blood levels of the naturally occurring TFA C16:1n-7t were broadly associated with a more favorable lipid profile, lower body weight/central adiposity, lower white blood cell count and lower biochemical markers of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease at baseline/12mFU. Conversely, blood levels of the IP-TFA C18:1n9t were directly associated with lipid risk markers [triglycerides (β=19.7, p&amp;lt;0,001), non-HDL-C (β=7.9, p=0,001), and LDL-C (β=5.4, p=0,011)]. The two IP-TFA C18:2n6 isomers C18:2n6tt and C18:2n6ct were positively associated with HbA1c [(β=14.6, p=0,003) and (β=4.2, p=0,014) respectively]. The IP-TFA C18:2n6tt/-ct isomers were associated with lower submaximal aerobic capacity (distance covered in the 6MWT) at baseline/12mFU. No significant association was found between TFA blood levels and left ventricular filling pressures, left ventricular relaxation or neurohumoral activation. Significant effects of group allocation (spironolactone +/−) were found for the 12mFU outcomes systolic/diastolic blood pressure (all p&amp;lt;0.001), heart rate, E/e$'$ and HbA1c. Conclusions In HFpEF patients, higher blood levels of industrially processed TFA, but not of the TFA C16:1n-7t in full fat dairy and meat, were associated with a higher risk phenotype and lower aerobic capacity. Our findings support efforts to remove IP-TFA from the food supply for improving risk factor control in HFpEF patients. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): German Foundation of Heart Research

Trajectory of pulmonary congestion by lung ultrasound in patients with acute myocardial infarction and association with cardiac structure and function

Abstract Background The PARADISE-MI trial examined the efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), pulmonary congestion or both. Little is known about the trajectory and echocardiographic correlates of pulmonary congestion in this population. Purpose We sought to assess the trajectory of pulmonary congestion using lung ultrasound (LUS) and its association with cardiac structure and function in a subset of patients enrolled in PARADISE- MI. Methods Participants underwent 8-zone LUS at baseline and 8 months. B-lines were quantified offline, blinded to treatment group, clinical findings, timepoint and outcomes by a core laboratory. Paired t-tests, chi-squared tests, and linear regression analyses were conducted. Results Among 152 patients (median age 65 years, 32% women, 35% obese, mean LVEF 41%), any B-lines were detectable in 87%, the median sum of B-lines in 8 zones was 4 [IQR 2–8], and 67% had ≥3 B-lines indicative of congestion. Greater number of B-lines at baseline was associated with larger left atrial (LA) size, higher E/e' and E/A ratios, greater degree of mitral regurgitation, worse right ventricular (RV) systolic function, and higher tricuspid regurgitation velocity (P trend &amp;lt;0.05 for all) (Figure 1). Among 115 patients with 8-month LUS data, there was a significant decline in number of B-lines from baseline (mean ± SD: −1.6±7.3; p=0.018). Adjusted for baseline, B-lines at follow-up were on average 6 (95% CI: 3, 9) higher in a patient who experienced an intercurrent heart failure (HF) event than a non-HF patient (p=0.001). Among 75 patients with ≥3 B-lines at baseline, a decrease in B-lines to &amp;lt;3, indicating decongestion, occurred in 37% and was similar in the sacubitril/valsartan and ramipril groups (36% vs. 39%, p=0.83). Conclusions In this post-AMI cohort, sonographic B-lines, indicating pulmonary congestion, were common at baseline and were significantly higher at follow-up in those who developed HF. Worse pulmonary congestion at baseline was associated with prognostically important echocardiographic markers of LV filling pressure, pulmonary pressure, and RV function. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Novartis