End-diastolic Index Research Articles

Operations for increasing the pulmonary blood flow in newborns with cyanotic congenital heart defects: results and features of outpatient postoperative monitoring

Background. In patients with cyanotic congenital heart defects, pulmonary blood flow is maintained by a functio­ning patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Most patients with complex ductal-dependent cyanotic defects require intermediate staged treatment before radical correction of the defect. Timely and comprehensive outpatient monitoring by a pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist are important for patient survival following palliative treatment, along with determining optimal timing for consultations at specialized cardiac surgical centers. Objective: to present the outcomes of using two methods for increasing pulmonary blood flow (systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt (SPAS) and PDA sten­ting), as well as the features of outpatient cardiological observation and treatment in these patients. Materials and methods. From 2000 to February 2024, 22 patients underwent SPAS, and 25 — PDA stenting at the State Institution “Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery” of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. Results. After interventions, the mean arterial oxygen saturation (SatO2) increased in both groups, significantly higher in the PDA stenting group (p < 0.05). The ave­rage length of stay in the intensive care unit in the SPAS group was 19.6 ± 11.1 (range: 5 to 91) days compared to 12.8 ± 6.3 (range: 4 to 37) days in those with PDA stenting (p = 0.05). The duration of artificial lung ventilation in the SPAS group was 290.3 ± 215.3 (range: 63 to 751) hours, and in the PDA stenting group, it was shorter, 151.8 ± 75.5 (range: 39 to 549) hours (p < 0.05). Early (30-day) postoperative mortality in the SPAS group was 13.6 % (3/22 patients), with a late mortality of 18 % (4/22). In contrast, there was not early (30-day) postoperative mortality in the PDA stenting group, and late mortality was 8 % (2/25). Before the subsequent stage of surgical correction, sufficient growth of pulmonary artery branches was noted (Nakata index increased from 156.9 ± 33.3 mm2/m2 to 277.0 ± 35.9 mm2/m2 in the SPAS group and from 142.7 ± 55.2 mm2/m2 to 289.1 ± 149.2 mm2/m2 in the PDA stenting group), and the left ventricular end-diastolic index has increased (from 51.2 ± 32.4 mm2/m2 to 67.5 ± 15.5 mm2/m2 in the SPAS group and from 50.8 ± 24.9 mm2/m2 to 56.7 ± 28.5 mm2/m2 in the PDA stenting group). Thirteen patients in the SPAS group underwent the next stage of surgical correction (Glenn shunt or total repair of the congenital heart defect), while in the PDA stenting group — 17 patients. Conclusions. For cyanotic congenital heart defects, which have ductus-dependent pulmonary blood flow, both described methods are quite effective.

Стентування відкритої протоки як перший етап хірургічного лікування тетради Фалло з незливними гілками легеневої артерії

The aim – to show the results of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stenting as the first stage of palliative treatment in patients with tetralogy of Fallot with non-confluent branches of the pulmonary artery.Materials and methods. This retrospective, single-center study included 10 consecutive patients who underwent PDA stenting since 2013 to 2023. The average age at the time of surgery was 96.00 ± 82.92 days (range 4 to 411 days), the average weight was 5.10 ± 1.78 kg (range 2.8 to 11 kg). The arterial oxygen saturation level (SaO2) before the intervention was 72.0 ± 6.7 % (range 60 to 87 %).Results. There were no intraoperative complications in all patients of this group. The length of the stay in the intensive care unit after surgery was 5.00 ± 1.36 days. SaO2 level increased to 89.00 ± 4.08 %. The duration of artificial lung ventilation after surgery was 36.5 ± 18.00 hours, and the duration of inotropic support was 81.1 ± 33.8 hours. In the long term, all patients showed significant growth of the native pulmonary artery branches. All patients of this group achieved total repair of this pathology after 192.00 ± 60.28 days, on average. At the moment of total repair, the size of the left branch of the pulmonary artery increased from 3.9 ± 0.8 mm to 7.8 ± 1.6 mm, and the right branch increased from 5.8 ± 1.2 mm to 7.70 ± 1.04 mm; the Nakata index increased from 133.0 ± 29.1 mm2/m2 to 241.2 ± 97.8 mm2/m2; end-diastolic index of the left ventricle increased from 31.4 ± 10.8 ml/m2 to 43.1 ± 11.4 ml/m2.Conclusion. PDA stenting in patients with tetralogy of Fallot combined with non-confluent branches of the pulmonary artery is an effective palliative procedure. This method allows to postpone the total repair to an older age, ensures sufficient and symmetric growth of the branches of pulmonary artery, and helps to avoid risks associated with repeat open heart surgeries.

Study of Right Ventricular Function in Post COVID Syndrome in Recovered Mild Severity COVID-19 Patients Using Conventional and Speckle Tracking Echocardiography

Abstract Background Many patients seek medical help for COVID-19’s longer term physical and mental effects. The term post COVID syndrome is used by the World Health Organization (WHO) to identify individuals with a history of probable or confirmed COVID-19 infection, usually 3 months from the onset of infection with symptoms that last for at least 2 months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Symptoms may be due to persistent chronic inflammation, sequelae of organ damage, and hospitalization and social isolation. These symptoms may persist from the initial infection, or appear after a period of recovery. RV dimensions (RVD) and RV function (RVF) are closely correlated to symptom occurrence and to exercise capacity in many clinical conditions. Consequently, a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the RV is essential. Echocardiography is the modality of choice for the assessment of RVD and RVF in clinical practice owing to its numerous advantages. It is widely available, relatively cheaper than other modalities, non-invasive, and doesn’t require radiation or contrast injection. Nevertheless, the RV special anatomy, its retrosternal position and its complex architecture pose a challenge to conventional echocardiographic imaging. Novel modalities of echocardiography, such as myocardial deformation imaging by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), provide the solution to overcome most of these challenges owing to the fact that it is independent of cardiac translation, angle-independent and load-independent. Aim and Objectives The aim was to study RV function in post COVID syndrome in recovered mild severity COVID-19 patients using 2D RV STE and correlate these findings with the patients’ symptomatology. Patients and Methods This study included 96 subjects divided into 3 age and gender matched groups; the first group consisted of 32 mild severity COVID-19 patients 3-6 months after recovery and not complaining of post COVID-19 syndrome, the second group consisted of 32 mild severity COVID-19 patients 3-6 months after recovery and complaining of post COVID-19 syndrome and the third group consisted of 32 healthy controls who didn’t get COVID-19. This study was conducted at Ain Shams University Hospitals. The patients were recruited from the outpatient ECHO clinic in the cardiology department during the period from March 2022 to August 2022. The entire study population was evaluated via 2D conventional echocardiography and STE imaging. Results Our study assessed RV functions at 3-6 months after recovery from mild severity COVID-19 disease. At the follow-up, TAPSE, RV-FAC, RV S’, RV-GLS and RV-FWLS parameters were significantly lower in patients with mild severity COVID-19 disease than healthy controls. They also showed lower values in patients with post COVID syndrome than those without post COVID syndrome with P-value = 0.032, 0.034, 0.003, 0.010 and 0.029 respectively. In addition, RV diameters (longitudinal, mid and basal RVEDD), RV MPI and sPAP values were significantly higher in patients with mild severity COVID-19 disease than healthy controls. They also showed higher values in patients with post COVID syndrome than those without post COVID syndrome with P-value = 0.043, 0.026, 0.014, 0.000 and 0.025 respectively. LV-GLS showed lower value in patients with post COVID syndrome than control group with P-value = 0.002. It also showed lower value in patients with post COVID syndrome than those without post COVID syndrome with P-value = 0.018. We also found that the most common symptom in post COVID syndrome was fatigue, with a percentage of 65.6%, followed by palpitations (40.6%) and chest pain (31%). These three symptoms showed a significant negative relation with RV 2D STE parameters. Additionally, a negative correlation between inflammatory markers including CRP, TLC, PLT, ferritin and D-dimer levels during active infection and long term echocardiographic parameters such as RV-GLS, RV-FWLS and LV-GLS was detected in our study. Conclusion We concluded that RV-GLS and RV-FWLS decreased at 3-6 month follow-up of patients with history of mild severity COVID-19 disease especially those complaining of post COVID syndrome. Additionally, it is demonstrated that increased CRP, TLC, PLT, ferritin and D-dimer levels during acute infection is related to RV-GLS, RV-FWLS and LV-GLS values. 2D STE may be used for both detection and follow-up for possible long term right ventricular dysfunction after mild severity COVID-19 disease. Key words: Post-COVID Syndrome, Speckle Tracking Echocardiography, RV-GLS, RV-FWLS, LV-GLS Abbreviations. Abbreviations: RV Right Ventricle STE Speckle Tracking Echocardiography 2D 2-Dimensional TAPSE Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion RV-FAC Right Ventricular Fractional Area Change RV-GLS Right Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain RV-FWLS Right Ventricular Free Wall Longitudinal Strain LV-GLS Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain RVEDD Right Ventricular End Diastolic Dimension RV MPI Right Ventricular Myocardial Performance Index sPAP Systolic Pulmonary Artery Pressure CRP C – Reactive Protein TLC Total Leucocytic Count PLT Platelets WHO World Health Organization LVEDD Left Ventricular End Diastolic Dimension LVESD Left Ventricular End Systolic Dimension FS Fractional Shortening EF Ejection Fraction

Effects of diabetes mellitus on left ventricular function and deformation in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathies: a 3.0T CMR feature tracking study

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common metabolic disease worldwide and a major risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events, while the additive effects of DM on left ventricular (LV) deformation in the restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) cohort remain unclear. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate the additive effects of DM on LV deformation in patients with RCM.Materials and methodsOne hundred thirty-six RCM patients without DM [RCM(DM−)], 46 with DM [RCM (DM+)], and 66 age- and sex-matched control subjects who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) scanning were included. LV function, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) type, and LV global peak strains (including radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions) were measured. The determinant of reduced LV global myocardial strain for all RCM patients was assessed using multivariable linear regression analyses. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was performed to illustrate the relationship between DM and decreased LV deformation.ResultsCompared with the control group, RCM (DM−) and RCM(DM+) patients presented increased LV end-diastolic index and end-systolic volume index and decreased LV ejection fraction. LV GPS in all three directions and longitudinal PDSR progressively declined from the control group to the RCM(DM−) group to the RCM(DM+) group (all p < 0.05). DM was an independent determinant of impaired LV GPS in the radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions and longitudinal PDSR (β = − 0.217, 0.176, 0.253, and − 0.263, all p < 0.05) in RCM patients. The multiparameter combination, including DM, showed an AUC of 0.81(95% CI 0.75–0.87) to predict decreased LV GLPS and an AUC of 0.69 (95% CI 0.62–0.76) to predict decreased LV longitudinal PDSR.ConclusionsDM may have an additive deleterious effect on LV dysfunction in patients with RCM, especially diastolic dysfunction in RCM patients, indicating the importance of early identification and initiation of treatment of DM in patients with RCM.

Sex-related differences in the association between septal wall thickness and survival

Abstract Background Septal hypertrophy is associated with increased morbidity and mortality but data regarding the effect of sex on the association between septal wall thickness and survival is limited and uniform cutoffs in men and women are often used in clinical practice and research. Objective To investigate the differences between men and women in the association between septal wall thickness and survival. Methods A retrospective analysis of consecutive unselected patients undergoing echocardiography between March 2010 and February 2021 in a large tertiary referral center. Echocardiography studies were performed according to standard protocol. Survival data was validated against the ministry of health records. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between septal thickness and mortality. Results A total of 71,965 individuals were included. There were 32,419 (46%) female and 38,546 (54%) male examinees. Females were older than males (65 + 18 vs. 62 + 18, p &amp;lt; 0.001), less likely to have diabetes (16% vs. 19%, p&amp;lt;0.001) or ischemic heart disease (11% vs. 25%, p&amp;lt;0.001) but more frequently had atrial fibrillation (11% vs. 10%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Females had lesser septal wall thickness than males (10.3 + 2 vs. 11.1 + 2, p &amp;lt; 0.001), lower left ventricular mass index (89 + 29 vs. 102 + 33, p&amp;lt;0.001), lower left ventricular end diastolic and end systolic diameter index. Men had lower ejection fraction than women (55% + 9 vs. 58% + 6, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Over a mean follow-up of 59.1 ± 37 months there were 9631 (25%) and 8429 (26%) deaths in the male and female groups, respectively. In multivariate cox regression analysis, septal thickness was an independent predictor for all-cause mortality in both sexes (Table). When using a uniform cutoff of 12mm for septal thickness for both sexes, the multivariate adjusted HR was 1.00 (CI 95%: 0.94-1.08, p=0.83) for males and 1.15 (CI 95%: 1.07-1.25, p&amp;lt;0.001) for females. The Kaplan–Meier mortality-free survival curve by septal thickness and sex is shown (figure). Septal thickness had an incremental prognostic significance in both sexes. On multivariate analysis it became statistically significant in females at 11mm with HR 1.51 (CI95%:1.06-1.24, p&amp;lt;0.001) and in males at 13mm with HR 1.21 (CI95%: 1.12-1.36, p&amp;lt;0.001). When using indexed septal thickness for BSA, the statistically significant cutoff was 6mm/BSA for women, HR 1.08 (CI 95%: 1-1.17, p=0.04) and 6.2mm/BSA for men, HR 1.07 (CI 95%: 1-1.15, p=0.05). Conclusions In an large unselected cohort of patients, septal hypertrophy had an incremental prognostic significance in both sexes and was associated with increased mortality at a lower threshold in women than in men. This may at least partially explain the delayed diagnosis and worse prognosis reported in females in many conditions characterized by septal hypertrophy. Applying a lower absolute value or using indexed measurements may facilitate early diagnosis and improve prognostication in females.

Utilizing Spontaneous Ventilation Modes in Patients Underwent Corrective Surgery for Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstructive Congenital Heart Disease: A Crossover Study.

This study aimed to determine whether the hemodynamics of patients with right ventricle outflow tract obstructive congenital heart disease (RVOTO-CHD) improve after corrective surgery by changing the ventilation mode. Patients with RVOTO-CHD who underwent corrective surgery were enrolled in this study. Echocardiography and advanced hemodynamic monitoring were performed using the pulse indicator continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) technology in the pressure-regulated volume control (PRVC) mode, followed with switching to the pressure support ventilation (PSV) mode and neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) mode in random order. Overall, 31 patients were enrolled in this study from April 2021 to October 2021. Notably, changing the ventilation mode from PRVC to a spontaneous mode (PSV or NAVA) led to better cardiac function outcomes, including right ventricular cardiac index (PRVC: 3.19 1.07 L/min/ vs. PSV: 3.45 1.32 L/min/ vs. NAVA: 3.82 1.03 L/min/ , p 0.05) and right ventricle contractility (tricuspid annular peak systolic velocity) (PRVC: 6.58 1.40 cm/s vs. PSV: 7.03 1.33 cm/s vs. NAVA: 7.94 1.50 cm/s, p 0.05), as detected via echocardiography. Moreover, in the NAVA mode, PiCCO-derived cardiac index (PRVC: 2.92 0.54 L/min/ vs. PSV: 3.04 0.56 L/min/ vs. NAVA: 3.20 0.62 L/min/ , p 0.05), stroke volume index (PRVC: 20.38 3.97 mL/ vs. PSV: 21.23 4.33 mL/ vs. NAVA: 22.00 4.33 mL/ , p 0.05), and global end diastolic index (PRVC: 295.74 78.39 mL/ vs. PSV: 307.26 91.18 mL/ vs. NAVA: 323.74 102.87 mL/ , p 0.05) improved, whereas extravascular lung water index significantly reduced (PRVC: 16.42 7.90 mL/kg vs. PSV: 15.42 5.50 mL/kg vs. NAVA: 14.4 4.19 mL/kg, p 0.05). Furthermore, peak inspiratory pressure, mean airway pressure, driving pressure, and compliance of the respiratory system improved in the NAVA mode. No deaths were reported in this study. We found that utilizing spontaneous ventilator modes, especially the NAVA mode, after corrective surgery in patients with RVOTO-CHD may improve their right heart hemodynamics and respiratory mechanics. However, further randomized controlled trials are required to verify the advantages of spontaneous ventilation modes in such patients. NCT04825054.

Impact of Persistent Microvascular Obstruction Late After STEMI on Adverse LV Remodeling: A CMR Study

BackgroundLittle is known about the occurrence and implications of persistent microvascular obstruction (MVO) after reperfused ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). ObjectivesThe authors used cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) to characterize the impact of persistent MVO on adverse left ventricular remodeling (ALVR). MethodsA prospective registry of 471 STEMI patients underwent CMR 7 (IQR: 5-10) days and 198 (IQR: 167-231) days after infarction. MVO (≥1 segment) and ALVR (relative increase >15% at follow-up CMR) of left ventricular end-diastolic index (LVEDVI) and left ventricular end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) were determined. ResultsOne-week MVO occurred in 209 patients (44%) and persisted in 30 (6%). The extent of MVO (P = 0.026) and intramyocardial hemorrhage (P = 0.001) at 1 week were independently associated with the magnitude of MVO at follow-up CMR. Compared with patients without MVO (n = 262, 56%) or with MVO only at 1 week (n = 179, 38%), those with persistent MVO at follow-up (n = 30, 6%) showed higher rates of ALVR-LVEDVI (22%, 27%, and 50%; P = 0.003) and ALVR-LVESVI (20%, 21%, and 53%; P < 0.001). After adjustment, persistent MVO at follow-up (≥1 segment) was independently associated with ΔLVEDVI (relative increase, %) (P < 0.001) and ΔLVESVI (P < 0.001). Compared with a 1:1 propensity score–matched population on CMR variables made up of 30 patients with MVO only at 1 week, patients with persistent MVO more frequently displayed ALVR-LVEDVI (12% vs 50%; P = 0.003) and ALVR-LVESVI (12% vs 53%; P = 0.001). ConclusionsMVO persists in a small percentage of patients in chronic phase after STEMI and exerts deleterious effects in terms of LV remodeling. These findings fuel the need for further research on microvascular injury repair.

Tactics of Preoperative Examination of Patients with Infective Endocarditis Complicated by Acute Heart Failure

Background. Management of patients with infective endocarditis (IE) has changed rapidly in recent years with improvements in diagnostic procedures and early aggressive surgical treatment. The annual incidence of IE in high-income countries has reached 9 cases per 100,000 population. Approximately half of patients with IE require surgical treatment due to severe complications, the most common of which is acute heart failure (AHF), which occurs in 40–60% of cases. Clinical scenarios of IE are often complex, requiring rapid diagnostic measures and early appointment of surgical intervention.&#x0D; The aim. To determine the preoperative algorithm of diagnostic and therapeutic measures in the presence of signs of AHF in patients with IE.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The basis of this study is the clinical data of 311 patients with active IE who underwent examination and treatment at the National Amosov Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery of the National Academy of Medi- cal Sciences of Ukraine from 01/01/2019 to 10/22/2021. The diagnosis of IE was established in accordance with Duke Endocarditis Service criteria proposed in 1994. The average age of the studied patients was 47.9 ± 3.83 (19 to 77) years.&#x0D; Results. In order to determine the degree of AHF at the preoperative stage, all the patients were divided into 4 groups according to the New York Heart Association functional classification. Preoperative clinical data of IE patients with signs of AHF comprised the basis for functional class IV (59 [18.9%] cases) and formed the studied group. For preoperative diagnosis of AHF, cardiohemodynamic data was obtained based on the results of echocardiographic parameters and level of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP).&#x0D; In order to improve the diagnosis of AHF, tactics of preoperative examination of patients with IE were developed. In our study, the following echocardiographic examination results were indicative in the diagnosis of IE complicated by heart failure: detection of vegetations on the leaflets of the left heart valves, end-diastolic index &gt;94.3 ml/m2, end-systolic index &gt;40.8 ml/m2, pulmonary artery pressure &gt;50 mm Hg. The main biochemical marker of AHF in the group of patients with IE was the threshold level of NTproBNP greater than 7473.7 pg/ml. Identified changes in cardiohemodynamic and biochemical indicators became independent indications for hospitalization in the intensive care unit and emergency preoperative preparation.&#x0D; Conclusions. During hospitalization of patients with IE to the cardiosurgical center, the basis of the effectiveness of the provided care is the timely diagnosis of complications of the underlying disease. Based on the results of the work, the protocol for preoperative AHF diagnosis was developed. Critical levels of biochemical and hemodynamic indicators in patients with IE became an independent indication for hospitalization to the intensive care unit and emergency preoperative management. The early start of intensive care for AHF in IE is a fundamental factor that might influence the choice of treatment strategy.

Characterization of Favorable Right Ventricular Dimensions for Optimal Reverse Remodeling Following Pulmonary Valve Replacement

We sought to couple current cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) thresholds of right ventricular (RV) size and function with longitudinal trajectories of RV recovery, after pulmonary valve replacement (PVR). We aimed to identify optimal timing of PVR and couple CMR-based metrics with contemporaneous echocardiographic metrics. From June 2002 to January 2019, 174 patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation and peak RV outflow tract gradient <30 mm Hg underwent PVR at Cleveland Clinic. Mean age was 35 ± 16 years and 60 (34%) had concomitant tricuspid valve surgery. RV end diastolic area index (RVEDAi) and function metrics were measured by offline image review on preoperative and 794 postoperative echocardiograms. Contemporaneous RV end diastolic volume index (RVEDVi) was assessed on CMR and correlated to RVEDAi. Multiphase nonlinear mixed-effects models were used to analyze the longitudinal change in RV size and function after PVR. RVEDAi was correlated with RVEDVi (P < 0.0001, r = 0.59). RVEDAi decreased slowly over 10 years following PVR. An inflection point at 24 cm2/m2 was noted at 1 year post-PVR and was associated with failure of RV reverse remodeling and RVEDVi ≥150 mL/m2. Compared to patients with preoperative RVEDVi ≥150 mL/m2, patients with RVEDVi <150 mL/m2 had accelerated recovery of longitudinal trajectories of RV size and function metrics on echocardiograms. Reverse remodeling of RV following PVR is an ongoing process. Current accepted threshold values for PVR are associated with greatest RV recovery, suggesting that earlier PVR is warranted. Echocardiography can potentially be utilized in lieu of CMR for surveillance and interventional triage.

Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Africans with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy

In sub-Saharan Africa, idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) is a common yet poorly investigated cause of heart failure. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is the gold standard for tissue characterisation and volumetric quantification. In this paper, we present CMR findings obtained from a cohort of patients with IDCM in Southern Africa suspected of having a genetic cause of cardiomyopathy. A total of 78 IDCM study participants were referred for CMR imaging. The participants had a median left ventricular ejection fraction of 24% [interquartile range, (IQR): 18-34]. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) was visualised in 43 (55.1%) participants and localised in the midwall in 28 (65.0%) participants. At the time of enrolment into the study, non-survivors had a higher median left ventricular end diastolic wall mass index of 89.4 g/m2 (IQR: 74.5-100.6) vs. 73.6 g/m2 (IQR: 51.9-84.7), p = 0.025 and a higher median right ventricular end-systolic volume index of 86 mL/m2 (IQR:74-105) vs. 41 mL/m2 (IQR: 30-71), p < 0.001. After one year, 14 participants (17.9%) died. The hazard ratio for the risk of death in patients with evidence of LGE from CMR imaging was 0.435 (95% CI: 0.259-0.731; p = 0.002). Midwall enhancement was the most common pattern, visualised in 65% of participants. Prospective, adequately powered, and multi-centre studies across sub-Saharan Africa are required to determine the prognostic significance of CMR imaging parameters such as late gadolinium enhancement, extracellular volume fraction, and strain patterns in an African IDCM cohort.

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC ASPECTS OF ASSESSMENT OF MITRAL INSUFFICIENCY IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION WITH REDUCED LEFT VENTRICULAR EJECTION FRACTION.

The aim is to analyze patients with acute myocardial infarction with reduced ejection fraction in order to determine risk factors for mitral insufficiency. Materials and methods: The study included 149 patients with acute myocardial infarction. Among the patients, there were 113 males (75.8%) and 36 females (24.2%). The age of the patients ranged from 43 to 86 years. Echocardiography was performed using a Phillips Epiq 7 machine. Patients were examined three times: upon admission to the hospital, after revascularization, and six months after discharge. Patients received transthoracic echocardiography, which was used to determine the presence and degree of mitral regurgitation. Results: According to the results of the study, it was found that the presence of concomitant somatic pathology worsens the course of an acute myocardial infarction, in turn increasing the likelihood of valvular pathology. An increase in left ventricular volume indicators, such as end-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, end-diastolic index, and the index of contractile function (ejection fraction) contributes to the development of mitral valve insufficiency. Conclusions: The presence of mitral regurgitation in patients with acute myocardial infarction and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction worsens the course of the disease and negatively affects the prognosis.

The renal function in men with hypertension in conditions of purine and carbohydrate metabolism disorders

Aim. To assess the condition of renal function in hypertensive men in conditions of disorders of purine and carbohydrate metabolism Material and methods. 60 male patients (aged from 18 to 65 years) with stage I–II of arterial hypertension (AH) and purine and carbohydrate metabolism disorders were examined. In these patients, the level of uric acid (UA) in daily urine, fractional excretion of UA, creatinine in daily urine, microalbumin in urine and the cystatin C level were determined. Hemodynamics was studied by daily blood pressure monitoring. Assessment of kinetics and deformation of the myocardium in offline mode using the Xstrain software package integrated into the ultrasound device (Esaote, Italy) was made. Patients were divided into 2 clinical groups – 1 group of AH with hyperuricemia, 2 – AH without uricemia. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using the Statistica 13.0 software package (Statsoft, USA). Results. Correlation analysis in group 1 showed a positive correlation of cystatin C with the average daytime systolic blood pressure (SBP) (r = 0.408) and the variability of diastolic blood pressure (DBP) at night (r = 0.405), urinary microalbumin with the average SBP at night (r = 0.390) and average pulse blood pressure (r = 0.402), LV posterior wall thickness (r = 0.438), LV myocardial mass index (r = 0.621), end-diastolic index (EDI) (r = 0.492), end-systolic index (ESI) (r = 0.426), LV anterior-posterior size (r = 0.385). A negative correlation was established between blood serum SC and ejection fraction (EF) of the LV (r = -0.410), urinary microalbumin with cardiac index (SI) (r = -0.555) and the speed of movement of the lateral (e’ lat) part of the annulus fibrosus mitral valve (r = -0.453). Conclusions. As a result of the studies, the negative influence of hyperuricemia and hyperglycemia in patients with AH on renal function was established. These changes were evidenced by an increase in microalbuminuria level, a decrease in the fractional excretion of UA, an increasing the serum UA level, remodeling of the myocardium, and worsening of the heart systolic function, worsening of the daily blood pressure profile.

Abstract 9902: Relationship Between Preoperative Hemodynamics, Fenestration, and Fontan Hospitalization Length of Stay

Introduction: Using a multi-center Pediatric Heart Network dataset linking surgical (STS) and catheterization (IMPACT) data, we sought to evaluate factors associated with use of Fontan fenestration and the impact of fenestration on post-Fontan length of stay (LOS) in the context of pre-operative hemodynamics. Methods: Centers participated using a data sharing agreement permitting linkage of de-identified STS and IMPACT data. Patients 2-6 years old at Fontan surgery from 2010-2020 with catheterization &lt;1 year prior were included. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with fenestration. Full model covariates included center, ventricular morphology, Fontan type (lateral tunnel [LT] vs extracardiac conduit [ECC]), age at Fontan, sex, race and hemodynamic variables. Post-Fontan LOS was analyzed by fenestration status across hemodynamic variables using non-parametric ANOVA and by multivariable linear regression. Results: The cohort included 702 patients (7 centers). Median age at Fontan was 3.4 years (IQR 2.7-4.2) with fenestration used in 465 (66.2%). In multivariable modeling, factors associated with fenestration included center (range 27-93% use, p&lt;0.0001), Fontan type (OR 14.1 for LT, p&lt;0.0001) and ventricular morphology (P=0.007). Addition of hemodynamic variables (mean pulmonary artery pressure [mPAP], end diastolic pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance index) did not improve the model (Figure). While Fenestration was independently associated with a decreased LOS (p=0.04), exploratory analysis demonstrated the benefit was most pronounced at mPAP ≥ 13mmHg (median 9 vs 12 days, p=0.001). Conclusions: There is wide center variability in use of Fontan fenestration that is not explained by pre-operative hemodynamics. Fenestration is independently associated with shorter LOS but those with mPAP ≥ 13 mmHg at pre-Fontan catheterization benefit the most from fenestration with shorter post-Fontan LOS.

Abstract 13993: Sex Differences in Cardiac Structure and Function Following Acute Myocardial Infarction: Insights From the PARADISE-MI Echocardiographic Sub-Study

Introduction: Women have a higher incidence of heart failure (HF) hospitalizations than men following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The extent to which differential cardiac remodeling between men and women might account for this higher risk in women is poorly understood. Hypothesis: Women and men have differences in cardiac remodeling after AMI that are predictive of clinical outcomes. Methods: The Prospective ARNI versus ACE inhibitor trial to Determine Superiority in reducing heart failure Events after Myocardial Infarction (PARADISE-MI) trial randomized patients within 0.5 to 7 days of AMI complicated by left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, pulmonary congestion, or both to sacubitril/valsartan or ramipril. In the pre-specified echocardiographic sub-study, 544 participants were enrolled to undergo protocol echocardiography at the time of randomization and after 8 months. Results: At baseline, women (n=142, 26%) were older, more likely to have a history of hypertension, and less likely to have a history of MI. Women had a higher LV ejection fraction (LVEF), lower LV end-diastolic index (LVEDVi) and end-systolic volume index (LVESVi), and LV mass index, but no difference in left atrium (LA) volume index compared with men (Table). Women had better diastolic function compared with men. The absolute and relative changes in these echocardiographic parameters from baseline to 8 months were not significantly different between women and men. In univariate analyses, baseline LVEF, LVEDVi, LVESVi, LA dimensions and diastolic measurements are associated with primary outcome (Table). Conclusion: In PARADISE-MI, women have higher LVEF and lower indexed LV and LA chamber sizes compared to men following high-risk MI. The changes between baseline and 8-month in LVEF, LV and LA dimensions did not differ significantly between men and women, suggesting that differential cardiac remodeling post-MI may not account for the increased HF risk in women compared with men.

Assessment of Left Ventricular Systolic Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Compressed Sensing Real-Time Cine Imaging Combined With Area-Length Method in Normal Sinus Rhythm and Atrial Fibrillation

BackgroundThe most-commonly used multi-slice Simpson's method employed with routine two-dimensional segmented cine images makes it difficult to evaluate left ventricular (LV) volume and function due to endocardial border blurring and beat-to-beat variation during atrial fibrillation (AF) status.ObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of compressed sensing real-time (CSRT) cine imaging combined with an area-length method for quantification of LV systolic function in normal sinus rhythm (NSR) and AF.MethodsThe CSRT cine sequence and routine segmented balanced Steady-State-Free-Precession cine sequence were performed in 71 patients with NSR (n = 36) or AF (n = 35). Image quality and edge sharpness for both sequences were assessed. The LV functional measurements in patients with NSR included end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume (SV), ejection fraction (EF), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), and LV mass (LVM); all were assessed using segmented cine with Simpson's rule in short axis (SegSA_Simpson, as a reference standard) and area-length (AL) method in the two chamber (Seg2CH_AL) or four chamber (Seg4CH_AL) and CSRT cine with AL method in the two chamber (CSRT2CH_AL) or four chamber (CSRT4CH_AL). Finally, the mean, maximum, and minimum values of each LV functional parameter [EDV/ESV/SV/EF/CO/CI/LVM/heart rate (HR)] from 4~5 consecutive heartbeats were measured using CSRT2CH_AL in patients with AF.ResultsIn patients with NSR, measurements of EDV (p > 0.05), ESV (p > 0.05), SV (p > 0.05), EF (p > 0.05), and LVM (p > 0.05) assessed with CSRT2CH_AL did not differ significantly from those obtained with SegSA_Simpson. In patients with AF, CSRT image quality score (p < 0.001) and edge sharpness (p < 0.001) both were significantly higher than those obtained from segmented cine. The CSRT2CH_AL provided significantly different results among mean, maximum, and minimum values of each LV parameter from 4~5 consecutive heartbeats (all p < 0.001) with strong inter- and intra-observer agreement in AF.ConclusionsThe CSRT cine sequence combined with two chamber area-length analysis accurately assessed LV systolic function in NSR. This approach is expected to permit the assessment of multiple parameters in consecutive heartbeats with good inter- and intra-observer reproducibility for beat-to-beat analysis of LV function in AF.

Right atrial strain and cardiovascular outcome in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is characterized by progressive fibro-fatty infiltration of the myocardium and associated with adverse cardiovascular (CV) events. This study aims to examine right atrial (RA) deformation in ARVC and understand its association with CV outcomes. RA strain was determined in 50 patients with definite ARVC, compared with a matched control group of 50 healthy individuals, and analysed for outcome association over a median follow-up duration of 5 years. A subgroup of 30 ARVC patients with normal RA volume (ARVC-N group) was compared with 30 matched controls (Control-N), and the outcome was analysed separately. RA reservoir, conduit, and pump strain were significantly impaired in ARVC vs. control. Similar observations were made in the N-ARVC subgroup. Reservoir strain was associated with an increased risk of atrial arrhythmia (AA) [hazard ratio (HR) 0.88, P < 0.01] and CV events (HR 0.92, P < 0.01). Conduit strain also predicted AA (HR 1.02, P < 0.01), while pump strain predicted CV events (HR 1.09, P = 0.02). Reservoir strain improved the fitness of bivariable models for the association of RV end-diastolic area index, RV fractional area change, and RV global longitudinal strain with CV events. ARVC patients display impaired RA strain even when RA volume is normal. Reservoir and pump strain are associated with an increased risk of CV events. Reservoir strain improved model fitness for the association of RVGLS and other echocardiographic parameters with CV events.

Role of Chitinase-3-like Protein 1 in Cardioprotection and Angiogenesis by Post-Infarction Exercise Training.

Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1) is a myokine involving tissue remodeling and inflammatory processes. CHI3L1 and its receptor protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) are induced by exercise in skeletal muscles. However, it remains unknown if CHI3L1/PAR2 signaling also mediates exercise-induced cardioprotection after myocardial infarction. Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into three groups (n = 8/group), receiving: (1) a sham operation; (2) permanent ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery; and (3) post-MI exercise training with one-week adaptive treadmill exercise for seven days followed by four weeks of aerobic exercise. Left ventricular systolic and end-diastolic pressure indices were measured and cardiac fibrosis, and angiogenesis were examined. Furthermore, HUVEC cells were treated in vitro with AMPK agonist—AICAR (a putative pharmacological memetic of exercise), recombinant human CHI3L1, PAR2 receptor blocker (AZ3451), and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002), respectively. We found that post-MI exercise significantly upregulated CHI3L1, PAR2, pPI3K/PI3K, pAKT/AKT, pERK/ERK, improved cardiac function, and diminished fibrosis. AICAR increased HUVEC tubules formation and upregulated CHI3L1 and PAR2 and these changes were attenuated by PAR2 blocker. In conclusion, post-MI exercise training can effectively activate CHI3L1/PAR2 signaling, which led to the improved myocardial function and enhanced cardiac angiogenesis in the infarcted heart.

HEART RHYTHM AND CONDUCTIVITY DISTURBANCES IN MEN UNDER 60 YEARS OLD WITH ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY DURING MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

Abstract: Relevance. Acute kidney injury (AKI) and arrhythmias negatively affect the prognosis of myocardial infarction (MI). Aim. To evaluate the features of heart rhythm and conduction disturbances and electrocardiographic changes in men under 60 years old (y.o.) with AKI in MI to improve understanding of the mechanisms of development and prevention. Material and methods. The study included men aged 19-60 years old with MI and AKI were studied. The patients were divided into two age comparable groups: I - study group, with AKI - 25 patients; II - control, without it - 486 patients. A comparative analysis of the frequency of observation of arrhythmias and ECG changes in the selected groups, analysis of the influence of various factors (Pearson's Chi-square) on the risk of arrhythmia in the study group were performed. Results. The compared groups did not differ in the frequency and structure of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction disorders. For the development of arrhythmias in the study group, the most important were: diastolic (absolute risk (AR): 100%; relative (RR) - 5.3; p = 0.02) 120 mm Hg. and more and systolic (AR: 83.3%; RR: 5.3; p = 0.02) blood pressure (BP) 180 mm Hg or more, the early and late left ventricular (LV) filling velocity relationship less than 0,7 (AR: 66.7%; p = 0.002), left atrial 38 mm or more (AR: 53.3%; p = 0.007), LV end-systolic volume index (52.4 ml / m2 or more) and LV end-diastolic index (88.0 ml / m2 and more) (AR: 66.7% each; RR: 4.67 each; p = 0.01). For the development of life-threatening arrhythmias (ventricular fibrillation and asystole) in the study group, a body weight of 110.0 kg or more was of additional importance (AR: 50.0%; p = 0.01). New arrhythmias in the subacute MI period were recorded only in the control group of patients. Conclusions. For AKI in MI in men under 60 y.o., there were no specific heart rhythm and conduction disturbances. For the arrhythmias development in MI with AKI, signs of pronounced hypertension, dilatation of the left heart and LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction are primary importance. Obesity is an additional importance for the life-threatening arrhythmias development in MI with AKI.

Retrobulbar blood flow velocity in systemic lupus erythematosus assessed by color Doppler imaging.

To analyze the blood flow in retrobulbar vessels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by color Doppler imaging (CDI) and to investigate the associations between immunological markers, retinal abnormalities, disease activity, and vascular parameters. We examined 30 patients with SLE who were aged 32.1 ± 11.6years with a disease duration of 68.0 ± 55.6months and 30 participants in a control group. The peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), pulsatility index (PI), and resistive index (RI) of the ophthalmic artery (OA), central retinal artery (CRA), and posterior ciliary arteries (PCAs) were determined. Physical and ophthalmic examinations with assessments of immunological markers were performed. All parameters were compared between SLE patients and normal controls while the correlations among parameters were analyzed. In the SLE group, CDI confirmed blood flow abnormalities in the CRA and PCAs, with significantly lower blood flow velocities and increased RI and PI (p < 0.05). There was a significantly negative correlation between disease duration and EDV in the CRA, PCA, and OA (p = 0.0423, 0.0453, 0.0448). There was also a significant relationship between the SLE Disease Activity Index and the PI of the OA (p = 0.0367). The patients who had received biological agents (Rituximab) had lower EDV in the CRA and PCA (p = 0.0026, 0.028). SLE patients with kidney or CNS involvement had a significant increase in the PI in the OA (p = 0.0287). The PSV and EDV in the CRA were significantly related to creatinine (p = 0.0007 and 0.0418). We also noted a significant decreased EDV in the CRA and an increased RI in the OA among participants positive for anti-dsDNA antibodies (p = 0.0331 and 0.0228). Retrobulbar circulatory disturbances were detected in SLE patients by CDI. These findings seem likely to affect smaller vessels like the CRA and PCA. However, the presence of measurable changes in the OA is generally indicative of a coexistent nephropathy or central nervous system (CNS) vasculitis. Creatinine, the disease activity index, being positive for anti-dsDNA, and receiving biological agents were associated with measurable changes on the retrobulbar blood flow.

Exercise Training Attenuates Cardiac Vulnerability and Promotes Cardiac Resistance to Isoproterenol-Induced Injury Following Hookah Smoke Inhalation in Male Rats: Role of Klotho and Sirtuins.

Hookah smoking is on the rise around the world. Present study investigated the heart resistance to harmful stress following long-term waterpipe tobacco smoking (WTS) and moderate-intensity exercise training intervention in male Wistar rats. Animals were randomly divided into a non-ischemic heart control group and four ischemic heart groups including ISO (isoproterenol-treated), Ex + ISO (subjected to exercise plus ISO), S + ISO (exposed to hookah smoke plus ISO), and Ex + S + ISO (subjected to exercise along with hookah smoke plus ISO). After eight weeks of training and WTS, heart ischemia induced by isoproterenol injections. Then, cardiac functional indices and some biochemical and histopathological parameters were assessed. WTS + ISO reduced systolic pressure, ± dP/dt max, and contractility indices (P < 0.001 vs. ISO group) and increased end diastolic pressure and Tau index (P < 0.001 vs. ISO) of the left ventricle. Also, WTS + ISO was associated with an increase in Bax protein level and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (P < 0.05 and P < 001, respectively, vs. ISO group) as apoptotic markers of heart tissue. Hookah smoke significantly decreased SIRT1 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively, vs. ISO) and klotho (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively, vs. ISO) in serum and heart, and SIRT3 and pS9-GSK-3β (P < 001 and P < 0.05, respectively, vs. ISO) in heart tissue. Combination of exercise with WTS prevented the hookah smoke-induced alterations in apoptotic markers, cardiac functional indices, and SIRT1, SIRT3, klotho, and pS9-GSK-3β proteins. The findings demonstrated that hookah smoke inhalation intensifies ventricular dysfunction and decreases heart resistance to harmful stresses. Moderate-intensity exercise training attenuated these complications partly through recovering the klotho and sirtuins levels and apoptosis-survival balancing.