Higher Risk Of Cardiac Events Research Articles

Implications of multiple late gadolinium enhancement lesions on the frequency of left ventricular reverse remodeling and prognosis in patients with non\u2010ischemic cardiomyopathy

BackgroundNon-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) is a heterogeneous disease, and its prognosis varies. Although late gadolinium enhancement (LGE)-cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) demonstrates a linear pattern in the mid-wall of the septum or multiple LGE lesions in patients with NICM, the therapeutic response and prognosis of multiple LGE lesions have not been elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling (LVRR) and prognosis in patients with NICM who have multiple LGE lesions.Methods This single-center retrospective study included 101 consecutive patients with NICM who were divided into 3 groups according to LGE-CMR results: patients without LGE (no LGE group = 48 patients), patients with a typical mid-wall LGE pattern (n = 29 patients), and patients with multiple LGE lesions (n = 24 patients). LVRR was defined as an increase in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 10 % and a final value of LVEF > 35 %, which was accompanied by a decrease in LV end-systolic volume ≥ 15 % at 12-month follow-up using echocardiography. The frequency of composite cardiac events, defined as sudden cardiac death (SCD), aborted SCD (non-fatal ventricular fibrillation, sustained ventricular tachycardia, or adequate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapies), and heart failure death or hospitalization for worsening heart failure, were summarized and compared between the groups.ResultsAmong the 3 groups, the frequency of LVRR was significantly lower in the multiple lesions group than in the no LGE and mid-wall groups (no LGE vs. mid-wall vs. multiple lesions: 49 % vs. 52 % vs. 19 %, p = 0.03). There were 24 composite cardiac events among the patients: 2 in patients without LGE (hospitalization for worsening heart failure; 2), 7 in patients of the mid-wall group (SCD; 1, aborted SCD; 1 and hospitalization for worsening heart failure; 5), and 15 in patients of the multiple lesions group (SCD; 1, aborted SCD; 8 and hospitalization for worsening heart failure; 6). The multiple LGE lesions was an independent predictor of composite cardiac events (hazard ratio: 11.40 [95 % confidence intervals: 1.49−92.01], p = 0.020).ConclusionsPatients with multiple LGE lesions have a higher risk of cardiac events and poorer LVRR. The LGE pattern may be useful for an improved risk stratification in patients with NICM.

Risk of coronary artery disease after adjuvant radiotherapy in 29,662 early breast cancer patients: A population-based Danish Breast Cancer Group study

PurposeRadiotherapy (RT) for early breast cancer (BC) reduces the risk of recurrence and improves overall survival. However, thoracic RT may cause some incidental RT dose to the heart with subsequent risk of heart disease. During 2000–2010, CT-based RT planning was gradually introduced. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk of cardiac events in left-sided compared with right-sided BC patients treated during a non-CT-based (1999–2007) vs a CT-based period (2008–2016). Material and methodsInformation on BC and cardiac events among Danish women was obtained from population-based medical registers. Patients diagnosed with BC during 1999–2016, were included. A cardiac event was defined as coronary artery disease or severe valvular heart disease. ResultsAmong 29,662 patients, 22,056 received RT. For those irradiated during the non-CT-based period, the 10-year cumulative risk of cardiac event was 1.7% (95% CI 1.4–2.0) at median follow-up of 11.1 years. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) for cardiac event in left-sided vs right-sided patients was 1.44 (1.07–1.94) and a trend towards worse outcome was seen within the first 10 years after RT and approached statistical significance with longer follow-up. Among patients irradiated during the CT-based period, the 10-year cumulative risk of cardiac event was 2.1% (1.8–2.4) at median 6.8 years follow-up. The IRR for cardiac event in left-sided vs right-sided patients was 0.90 (0.69–1.16) and no trend towards worse outcome within the first 10 years was observed. ConclusionThis study confirmed a higher risk of cardiac events in left-sided vs right-sided BC patients irradiated during a non-CT-based period. For patients irradiated during a CT-based period, no increased risk of cardiac events in left-sided vs right-sided patients was observed within the first 10 years after RT, whilst information on cardiac events beyond 10 years after RT was limited.

Perioperative management of post-COVID-19 surgical patients: Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA National) Advisory and Position Statement.

Perioperative management of post-COVID-19 surgical patients: Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA National) Advisory and Position Statement.

Decreased arterial compliance assessed by aortic pulse wave velocity is an important parameter for monitoring of blood pressure in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases

Aim. Patients with chronic inflammatory diseases (CID), such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) are more likely to have higher risk of cardiac events. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) can be used to measure the aortic dis-tensibility and it is known as inversely related to the arterial compliance. Increased aortic stiffness which is assessed by PWV, is seem to be associated with arterial blood pressure. In this study, we investigated the arterial compliance by PWV in patients with CID including RA and FMF.Material and methods. We studied 25 patients with RA, 33 patients with FMF and 31 healthy subjects without a history of any cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia (89 subjects in total). We measured the arterial compliance by automatic carotid-femoral (aortic) PWV using Complior Colson (France) device. PWV (m/s) = distance (m)/transit time(s).Results. It is seen that, patients with CID have higher carotid-femoral (aortic) PWV (8,76±2,09 vs 8,07±0,94 m/s) compared to control groups (p=0,03). There were significant correlations between PWV and age, body-mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean blood pressure. (p<0,001, r=0,65; p<0,001, r=0,36; p<0,001, r=0,42; p<0,001, r=0,46; p<0,001, r=0,48, respectively).Conclusion. Arterial compliance, which is assessed by carotid-femoral (aortic) PWV, is decreased in patients with CID such as RA and FMF when it is compared to healthy control group.

Clinical Considerations

Varied physiological functions demonstrate increased heterogeneity with aging. Variability in force exertion and motor performance is higher in old age, with increased step-to-step gait variability indicating greater risk of falls and cognitive decline. Even in healthy older adults, renal function may show no change, slight decline, or marked decline. In contrast, heart rate variability declines with age, with decreased complexity and a higher risk of cardiac events. The risk of death, disease and disability varies among individuals with increasing heterogeneity with aging. As a result, frailty has been conceptualized as both as a phenotype and an accumulation deficit index, offering strong predictive validity when seeking to understand the heterogeneity of aging from the perspective of risk of mortality and physiologic dysregulation across different systems. Physical resilience defined as ability to maintain or restore function following exposure to stressors also demonstrates increased heterogeneity with aging.

Protective effects of recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide on the myocardial injury induced by acute carbon monoxide poisoning.

To investigate the protective effect of recombinant human brain natriuretic peptide (rhBNP) on myocardial injury after acute carbon monoxide poisoning (ACOP). We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients with ACOP and high risk of cardiac events admitted to our hospital, and grouped them into rhBNP group and control group according treatments they received. Patients in control group received conventional treatment while those in rhBNP group were treated with rhBNP intravenously for 72 hours on the basis of conventional treatment. Levels of amino-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), serum creatine kinase MB fraction (CK-MB), aldosterone (ALD), angiotensin II (AT II), and endothelin-1 (ET-1) prior to and after treatment of rhBNP or conventional treatment were collected. Corrected QT dispersion (QTcd) results were calculated based on the electrocardiography data. The left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), interventricular septal thickness (IVS), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and stroke output (SV) were measured using color Doppler echocardiography. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) that occurred within 1 month after treatment were recorded. A total of 135 patients in the rhBNP group and 136 patients in the control group were enrolled. Baseline characteristics between the two groups were similar at admission. Levels of cTnI, CK-MB, and ET-1 in the rhBNP group were significantly lower than those in the control group at day 1, 2 and 3 after treatment (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, levels of QTcd, ALD and AT II in the rhBNP group were significantly lower at day 3 after treatment (P<0.05). After 7 days of treatment, the reduction of NT-proBNP in the rhBNP group was significantly greater than that in the control group at each day (P<0.05), and LVEF, SV and LVEDD in the rhBNP group were all greater than those in the control group. After 1 month of treatment, the incidence of MACEs in the rhBNP group was significantly lower than that in the control group. For patients with ACOP and high risk of cardiac events, early treatment of rhBNP can protect injured cardiomyocytes, prevent the injury of carbon monoxide on heart, and reduce the incidence of MACE.

Abstract 16927: Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Stress Perfusion Imaging Predicts One Year Outcomes Following Equivocal or Uncertain Stress Study

Introduction: Patients with equivocal nuclear stress test (SPECT) results are at higher risk for cardiac events compared to those with normal studies. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance stress perfusion imaging (SCMR) identifies individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) with high sensitivity and specificity, with excellent spatial resolution, and without ionizing radiation. The utility of SCMR testing is uncertain in individuals with prior equivocal stress results. Hypothesis: SCMR provides high prognostic capability to risk stratify patients after equivocal or uncertain SPECT studies. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients from 2011 to 2019 with equivocal or uncertain SPECT studies subsequently referred for SCMR within a 6 month window. Equivocal studies included qualifying wording such as significant artifact or technical difficulty. Uncertain studies included documented suspicion of false positive or false negative results. Adverse outcomes were defined as cardiovascular death or obstructive CAD found on unplanned coronary angiography (CA). Results: 151 patients met inclusion criteria: mean age 58, male 88 (58%). At one year, the negative predictive value of SCMR was 0.97; 122 patients with negative SCMR had a total of 4 events including 1 cardiovascular death and 3 obstructive CAD on CA. 27 patients had positive SCMR for ischemia, of which 9 patients were referred for CA and all demonstrated obstructive CAD. 18 patients were medically managed without adverse events. 2 patients were noted to have non-diagnostic SCMR and subsequent CA showed no significant CAD. Conclusion: Following equivocal or uncertain SPECT, SCMR demonstrated high 1-year prognostic capability with negative predictive value of 0.97 for adverse outcomes and high positive predictive value for obstructive CAD. SCMR may represent a reasonable, noninvasive option should additional risk stratification be required in this clinical setting.

Abstract 17094: A New Grading of Tricuspid Regurgitation Beyond Severe and Its Clinical Importance

Introduction: Recently a new grading system for tricuspid regurgitation (TR) beyond severe has been proposed. However, few studies assessing the validity of the new grade of TR has been conducted. We evaluated the new grading system of TR by comparing it with patient hemodynamics and outcome. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent 2 dimensional echocardiography and had severe TR in 2014. According to the vena contracta width (VC) of TR jet, the patients were classified into 3 groups: VC&amp;lt;11mm, 11&amp;lt;=VC&amp;lt;14 and VC &amp;gt;=14mm (160,113 and 86 patients respectively). Stroke volume (SV), cardiac index (CI) and right atrial pressure (RAP) were estimated by echocardiography. Cardiac events were defined as cardiac death or admission for heart failure (HF). Results: 376 patients were diagnosed as severe TR. We excluded 15 patients on mechanical respiratory support and 2 with missing clinical data. Remaining 359 severe TR patients (75 ± 16 years, 204 (57%) female) were investigated. TR patients with VC &amp;gt;=14mm had significantly lower SV and CI compared to the other groups, though there was no difference in SV and CI between those with VC&amp;lt;11 and those with 11&amp;lt;=VC&amp;lt;14 (Figure). Compared to TR patients with VC&amp;lt;11, those with VC &amp;gt;=14 had a significantly higher frequency of RAP &amp;gt;=15mmHg (Odds ratio (OR) 1.30; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 1.01 to 3.08; p=0.047 ), though those with 11&amp;lt;=VC&amp;lt;14 had no significant difference (OR 1.30; 95% CI 0.79 to 1.37; p=0.31 ) (Figure). During a follow-up period (median, 205 days; range, 36 to 1032 days), 124 (35%) patients experienced cardiac events (30 cardiac death and 94 HF admission). The Kaplan-Meier curves showed that TR patients with VC&amp;gt;=14 was at higher risk for cardiac events (Figure). Conclusion: TR patients with VC &amp;gt;=14mm showed significantly worse hemodynamics and outcome than those with VC&amp;lt;14mm. TR with VC &amp;gt;=14mm should be considered to clinical grade of TR that is beyond severe.

Is 3D analysis of longitudinal strain useful to predict long-term cardiac events in patients undergoing early mitral valve surgery?

Abstract Background In patients with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and significant mitral regurgitation (MR), the presence of reduced 3D left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) has already been described. However, precise data about this finding in predicting long-term cardiac events are lacking, especially in patients after MV surgery. Particularly, few data are available about the role of 3D GLS in events prediction in patients diagnosed with Barlow or Fibro-Elastic-Deficiency (FED) disease. Aim To determinate whether 3D LV GLS may identify a subgroup of patients with MVP and severe MR at higher risk for cardiac events after MV surgery. Methods We studied 143 patients diagnosed with MVP with normal LV function, who underwent isolated MV surgery between 2011 and 2017 for severe MR. A comprehensive 2D transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) analysis was performed, degree of MR was obtained using the PISA method (Proximal Isovelocity Surface Area), degree of tricuspid regurgitation was visually estimated. 3D analysis using custom software provided measurement of left atrial (LA) and right atrial (RA) dimension, right ventricular (RV) dimension and function and LV size and function including global longitudinal strain (GLS). Cardiac events (including cardiac death, arrhythmia, hospitalization for heart failure, embolic events or arrhythmia) were recorded during a follow-up of 4.6±2 years. Results Study patients were diagnosed with Barlow or FED in 92 (65%) and 51 (35%) of cases, respectively. The baseline 3D analysis showed left chambers dilatation with normal LV function and normal GLS, normal right chambers and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP). Based on 3D GLS, patients were divided in Group 1 (N=84, 59%, normal GLS ≥−21%) and Group 2 (N=59, 41%, reduced GLS ≤−20%). No differences were noted at baseline between groups (Table 1). At the follow-up, 43 events were recorded, including 1 death, 12 hospitalizations (3 for heart failure, 3 for embolic events and 6 for atrial fibrillation – AF) and 30 minor arrhythmic events, mostly premature ventricular complex (PVCs) and AF. The Kaplan Meier analysis showed no differences in cardiac events between groups (Figure 1, A). Among patients with Barlow, a significant difference in events was detected between patients with reduced and normal GLS at the Kaplan Meier analysis (Figure 1, B). This finding was not found in FED patients. Conclusions Patients undergoing MV surgery for MVP with initial LV remodeling and normal function, seem to be characterized by a low rate of major cardiac events. Interestingly, only in the Barlow population, a reduced 3D LV GLS strain may detect cases at higher risk of minor cardiac events, mostly minor arrhythmia. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Echocardiographic phenogrouping by machine learning for risk stratification in the general population

Abstract Background Improved taxonomical classification of routinely measured echocardiographic parameters is needed for better phenotypic characterisation of the asymptomatic stages of cardiac maladaptation. This would create opportunities to intervene early in the course of the heart disease and prevent progression to more advanced stages and adverse events. Purpose We tested the hypothesis that an unbiased clustering analysis utilizing echocardiographic indexes reflecting left heart structure and function and hemodynamic measurements could identify phenotypically distinct groups of asymptomatic individuals in the general population. Methods We prospectively studied 1407 community-dwelling individuals (mean age, 51.0 years; 51.5% women), in whom we performed clinical and echocardiographic examination at baseline and collected cardiac events on average 8.5 years later. Cardiac phenotypes that were correlated at r&amp;gt;0.8 were filtered, leaving 15 less redundant echocardiographic and hemodynamic features for phenogrouping. We employed two methods of unsupervised machine learning: agglomerative hierarchical clustering and Gaussian mixture using expectation minimization algorithm. The optimal number of phenogroups was chosen based on the combination of the cohesion/separation approach (silhouette index) and stability. Cox regression was used to demonstrate the clinical validity of phenogroups. Results Overall, both methods agreed with respect to cluster assignment (RI=0.75). Unbiased clustering analyses classified study participants into 3 distinct phenogroups that differed markedly in cardiac structure/function indexes and hemodynamics used for cluster analysis (Figure, left panel). Indeed, phenogroup 3 had the worst left ventricular diastolic function (ie, lowest e' velocity and left atrial reservoir strain, but highest E/e', deceleration time, and left atrial volume index), highest left ventricular mass index, as well as highest systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure (Figure, left panel). The phenogroups were also different in other clinical characteristics and incidence of cardiac events (Figure, right panel). Even after adjustment for traditional risk factors, phenogroup 3 had the highest risk of cardiac events as compared to cluster 1 (Figure, right panel). Conclusions Unsupervised learning algorithms integrating routinely measured cardiac imaging and hemodynamic data can provide a clinically meaningful classification of cardiac health in asymptomatic individuals. This approach might facilitate early detection of cardiac maladaptation and improve risk stratification. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Research Foundation Flanders

Long-term outcomes evaluated by device-monitored physical activity in patients with implantable cardiac defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy device

Abstract Background The patients with implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) or cardiac resynchronization therapy device (CRT) have high risk of cardiac events, and lower physical activity has been thought to be associated with higher rate of cardiac events. On the other hand, cardiovascular implantable electronic devices can monitor physical activity through a built-in accelerometer. This study aimed to analyze long-term outcomes by device-based monitoring of physical activity in patients with ICD or CRT. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 89 patients with ICD/CRT, (56 males, 66.5 years old; ICD 45, CRT-D 42, CRT-P 2) who survived longer than 6 months after implantation in our institution. We analyzed physical activity by devices at 6th month and divided to 2 groups; In Low activity group (group L; n=38), their physical activity (moving time above 70 steps/min walk level) is less than 2 hours/day, and in Normal activity group (group N; n=51), physical activity is more than 2 hours/day. We evaluated their background characteristics in each group, physical activity at 12th month, and composite outcomes of hospitalization due to worsening of heart failure (HF) and death of any cause. Results Mean follow-up period was 57.4 months (median 40 months). In group L, they had higher age (71.1 y.o. vs. 63.2 y.o.; p=0.0003), higher rate of low EF (76.3% vs. 54.9%; p=0.035), and lower rate of attendance to outpatient cardiac rehabilitation program (10.5% vs 27.5%; p=0.043) compared with group N. 85.7% of patients in group L stayed in low physical activity at 12th month, and 87.8% of patient in group N stayed in normal physical activity. Composite outcomes of HF hospitalization and death occurred significantly higher in group L (Log-rank p&amp;lt;0.0001; 29.0% vs. 5.9% at 1 year, and 68.7% vs. 16.2% at 3 year: Figure 1) than in group N. Each event, HF hospitalization and death of any cause were shown significantly higher in group L (Log-rank p&amp;lt;0.0001). In group L, mortality rate of patients who could improve their physical activity from 6th month to 12th month was significantly lower than patients who stayed in low physical activity (Log-rank p=0.038). Conclusions Lower level of device-monitored physical activity was associated with higher mortality and higher rate of HF hospitalization in patients with ICD or CRT. Most of the patient in lower physical activity could not improve their activity from 6th month to 12th month. Early and continuous intervention is necessary especially for high risk patients such as high age or low EF. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Delayed hyperenhancement obtained by non-contrast computed tomography following coronary angiography in patients of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Abstract Background/Introduction Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) has been reported to improve survival and neurologic outcome as compared to conventional CPR in refractory cardiac arrest. Although prognostic factors of these patients have been reported, predicting of outcome is difficult in real world. Recently, early evaluation of myocardial viability in acute myocardial infarction by non-contrast computed tomography (CT) post coronary angiography (CAG) has been reported. And myocardial contrast delayed enhancement obtained by this method related to higher risk of cardiac events. However, few studies have reported delayed enhancement on left ventricular wall findings in non-contrast CT after CAG in terms of patients performed ECPR. Purpose To investigate the impact of delayed hyperenhancement obtained by non-contrast CT following CAG in patients performed ECPR. Methods We investigated 79 patients treated by ECPR for refractory cardiac arrest regardless of whether in-hospital or out-hospital in our institute from Apr 2009 to Feb 2018. Thirty-two in these patients received non-contrast CT following CAG with ECPR were enrolled. All ECPR cases underwent VA-ECMO in the catheter laboratory using percutaneous procedure while maintaining conventional CPR. Non-ECG-gated and non-contrast CT was performed using a 64-row multidetector CT scanner. Results Survival rate was 18.8% in this cohort. There was no significant difference between survive and in-hospital death group in terms of patient characteristics, clinical time courses, initial blood samples and procedure characteristics. Only delayed hyperenhancement showed significant difference between 2 groups (p=0.04). All delayed hyperenhancements were detected in only in-hospital death group. Delayed hyperenhancement was detected in 12 cases (37.5%). Initial shockable rhythm was less common in cases with delayed hyperenhancement. Cardiac death tended to be more frequent in patients with delayed hyperenhancement. The major causes of death were bleeding (41.7%) and heart failure (33%). Conclusion(s) Delayed hyperenhancement in patients treated ECPR was strong predictor of in-hospital death. Image of delayed hyperenhancement Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Subclinical left atrial dysfunction profiles for prediction of cardiac outcome in the general population

Abstract Background Echocardiographic screening for subclinical left atrial (LA) dysfunction might enhance the prediction of cardiac diseases such as atrial fibrillation (AFib) in the community. To date, however, outcome-driven definitions of early-stage LA dysfunction remain scarce. Purpose In a large population sample, we sought to extract outcome-driven thresholds for echocardiographic indexes of LA function to define subclinical left atrial (LA) dysfunction and assess the prognostic value of these echocardiographic criteria for prediction of cardiac events. Methods In 1306 community-dwelling individuals (mean age, 50.7 years; 51.6% women), we assessed LA function and left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (LS) by echocardiography. Using receiver-operating curve threshold analysis, we derived outcome-driven cut-offs for LA emptying fraction (LAEF) and LA reservoir strain (LARS) that best balanced the cardiac event prediction (i.e. cut-offs yielding the highest Youden index (=sensitivity+specificity-1)). Next, we constructed LA dysfunction profiles and integrative LA/LV strain profiles based on the extracted cut-offs for LAEF and LARS and a validated definition of impaired LV global LS. We assessed the prognostic performance of these profiles in predicting the incidence of cardiac events and AFib (mean follow-up, 8.5 years). Results During follow-up, 93 participants experienced a cardiac event (8.3 events/1000 person-years) and 27 developed AFib (2.3 events/1000 person-years). LAEF&amp;lt;55% and LARS&amp;lt;23% yielded the highest Youden indexes and thus provided the most balanced prediction of incident AFib. When applying these cut-offs, abnormal LAEF and LARS were respectively present in 27.0% and 18.1% of the cohort. Abnormal LARS was independently associated with higher risk for cardiac events (hazard ratio (HR) versus normal LA phenotype: 2.11, P=0.0021). Both abnormal LAEF (HR: 2.57) and abnormal LARS (HR: 3.28) predicted incident AFib (P≤0.029). As compared to subjects free from any LA dysfunction, those with both LAEF&amp;lt;55% and LARS&amp;lt;23% had a significantly higher risk to develop cardiac events (HR: 2.10; P=0.014) and AFib (HR: 6.45; P=0.0036). Of the integrative LA/LV strain profiles, the concomitant presence of an impaired LARS and LV global LS independently elevated the risk for cardiac events (HR: 2.81; P=0.0012) and AFib (HR: 4.36, P=0.0071) as compared to normal counterparts. Both the degree of LA dysfunction and the integrative LA/LV strain profiles improved the prognostic accuracy beyond clinical risk models and risk scores. Conclusions We validated population-based and outcome-driven definitions of subclinical LA dysfunction predicting cardiac events independent of conventional risk factors. Echocardiographic screening for subclinical LA and LV systolic dysfunction might enhance the prediction of cardiac diseases such as AFib in the community, empowering clinicians to timely intervene with the disease development. Prediction of cardiac events Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Research Foundation Flanders, Internal Funds KU Leuven

Prognostic utility of routine assessment of left ventricular global longitudinal strain and peak atrial reservoir strain in stable heart disease patients

Abstract Background Left ventricular ejection fraction above 40% is a poor predictor of cardiac outcomes. Strain imaging seems to add incremental prognostic value in various heart conditions. Purpose The aim of the study is to investigate whether assessment of both left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) and peak atrial reservoir strain (PARS) in routine daily practice is useful in predicting cardiac events. Methods We prospectively enrolled 300 patients (212 men, mean age 64.8±10.9 years old) with stable cardiac disease, referred for echocardiographic examination and eligible for strain imaging. Conventional and speckle tracking 2D rest echocardiography were performed and clinical variables were recorded. We excluded patients with acute coronary syndromes, severe valvular disease, cardiomyopathies, arrhythmia and class IV NYHA. Results During a median follow up of 30 months, there were 111 cardiac events (CE) recorded including: 7 cardiac deaths (CD), 25 acute coronary syndromes (ACS), 45 hospitalisations for worsening heart failure (WHF), 23 episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF), 11 stroke (S). Average EF, LVGLS and PARS in patients with CE were significantly lower than in patients without CE (55.8±8.4%, −17.3±3.9% and 16.3±9.8% vs. 60.4±8.4%, −20.1±3.7% and 28.4±8.2%; p&amp;lt;0.05, p&amp;lt;0.01, p&amp;lt;0.01). In univariate analysis, lower LVGLS, respectively lower PARS were associated with a higher risk of cardiac events [Hazard Ratio (HR)1.26; 95% CI (confidence interval): 1.08–1.34; p&amp;lt;0.01 per 1% decrease, respectively HR 1.38; 95% CI: 1.16–1.42; p&amp;lt;0.01 per 1% decrease]. On multivariate analysis this association was independent after adjustment for age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, ejection fraction, left atrial indexed volume. Lower LVGLS was a better predictor of a composite of ACS and CD (HR 1.38 per 1% decrease 95% CI: 1.16–1.48; p&amp;lt;0.01). Lower PARS had a stronger association with AF, S and WHF (HR 1.49 per 1% decrease 95% CI: 1.19–1.58; p&amp;lt;0.01). In a model defined by depressed LVGLS (more positive than −18%) adding lower PALS, with a cut off point of 20%, significantly improved prediction of CE (C-statistic increased from 0.68 to 0.83, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions Left ventricular global longitudinal strain and peak atrial reservoir strain are independent predictors of cardiac events patients with stable heart disease. Acute coronary syndromes and death were better predicted by depressed LVGLS and onset of atrial fibrillation, stroke and worsening heart failure were better predicted by lower PARS. Routine assessment of both parameters improves significantly prediction of cardiac events and helps clinical decision making. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Simple echocardiographic scoring system to estimate left ventricular filling pressure based on visual assessment of time sequence of mitral and tricuspid valve opening

Abstract Introduction In the presence of elevated left ventricular (LV) filling pressure, mitral valve (MV) becomes to open early and precedes tricuspid valve (TV) opening in early diastole. Accordingly, time-delay of right ventricular inflow relative to LV inflow assessed by dual Doppler system was recently reported as a parameter of LV filling pressure. We assumed that visually-assessed time-delay of TV relative to MV opening could be a simple and alternative marker of elevated LV filling pressure. Purpose This study aimed to elucidate the clinical usefulness of the 2-dimensional echocardiographic scoring system, Visual assessment of time-difference between Mitral and Tricuspid valve opening (VMT) score, in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods We analyzed 119 consecutive HF patients who underwent echocardiography and cardiac catheterization within a day. Elevated LV filling pressure was defined as mean pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) ≥15 mmHg. LV diastolic function was graded according to the ASE/EACVI recommendations. Time sequence of opening of MV and TV was visually assessed in the apical 4-chamber view and scored to 3 grades (0: TV opening first, 1: simultaneous, 2: MV opening first). When the inferior vena cava diameter was &amp;gt;21 mm and collapsed &amp;lt;20% during normal respiration, 1 point was added and VMT score was calculated as 4 grades from 0 to 3. We also investigated 113 patients without worsening HF at VMT scoring for cardiac events defined as worsening HF, LV assist device implantation, or cardiac death for 1 year after the echocardiography. Results VMT was scored as 0 in 20 patients, 1 in 50 patients, 2 in 37 patients, and 3 in 12 patients. PAWP was elevated in patients with VMT score of 2 and 3 (0: 10±5, 1: 12±4, 2: 22±8, 3: 28±4 mmHg, ANOVA P&amp;lt;0.001) (Figure). In overall patients, VMT≥2 predicted elevated PAWP with accuracy of 86%. When the accuracy was tested in patients with reduced (&amp;lt;40%, HFrEF) and preserved LV ejection fraction (≥40%) respectively, the accuracy was excellent in HFrEF (96% and 77%, respectively). Importantly, VMT≥2 also had good accuracy of 82% for elevated PAWP in 33 patients in whom recommendations usually cannot grade diastolic function due to monophasic LV inflow. In the sequential Cox models, the addition of VMT score to the model including the plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level and LV diastolic grading improved the predictive power for elevated PAWP (P&amp;lt;0.001). During the follow-up, 20 cardiac events were observed (6 worsening HF, 9 LV assist device implantation and 5 cardiac death). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the patients with VMT≥2 were at higher risk of cardiac events than those with VMT≤1 (log-rank test P&amp;lt;0.001) (Figure). Conclusions The VMT score was a simple and accurate marker of elevated LV filling pressure and has an incremental benefit over BNP and LV diastolic function grading. Moreover, it could be a novel prognostic marker in patients with HF. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Long-term prognosis in patients with non-type 1 Brugada ECG: results from a large Japanese cohort of Brugada syndrome

Abstract Background Most recent consensus conference report recommends Brugada syndrome (BrS) is diagnosed in patients with ST segment elevation with spontaneous, drug-induced or fever-induced type 1 morphology. Prognosis in patients with type 2 or 3 ECG without drug-induced or fever-induced type 1 ECG is still unknown. Purpose To evaluate a long-term prognosis in patients with non-type 1 Brugada ECG in a large Japanese cohort of BrS (The Japan Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation Study [J-IVFS]). Methods From 528 patients in J-IVFS, a total of 28 consecutive non-type 1 patients (54±14 years, all male, previous sustained ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTs) 1, syncope 11, asymptomatic 16) were enrolled. Cardiac events (CI: sudden cardiac death or VTs) during the follow-up period were evaluated, and risk factors for the cardiac events were assessed. Results During a mean follow-up period of 111±91 months (median 134 months), 4 patients experienced cardiac events (1.5%/yr), who all had received implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation. There was no statistically significant clinical risk factor for cardiac events. However, the incidences of cardiac events tended to be higher in symptomatic patients (CI: 25.0, non-CI: 6.3%, p=0.17), those with wide QRS duration &amp;gt;90 msec in lead V2 (CI: 30.0, non-CI: 6.3%, p=0.11), and those with inducible VTs (CI: 21.1, non-CI: 0%, p=0.20), as determined by the Kaplan-Meier method. The annual incidences of cardiac events in patients with symptom, wide QRS duration &amp;gt;90msec in lead V2, or inducible VTs were 2.8, 3.5, and 2.0%/yr, respectively. The incidences of cardiac events were significantly higher in patients with all these 3 factors (9.9%/yr) than those without (p=0.01). Conclusions Our large-scaled multicentre study revealed long-term prognosis in patients with non-type 1 Brugada ECG. The combination of symptom, wide QRS duration in lead V2, and inducible VTs may be useful to evaluate risk for cardiac events. The patients with all these parameters showed high risk for cardiac events and need to be carefully followed. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Risk of cardiac events with azithromycin-A prediction model.

Previous studies have suggested an increased risk of cardiac events with azithromycin, but the predictors of such events are unknown. We sought to develop and validate two prediction models to identify such predictors. We used data from Truven Marketscan Database (01/2009 to 06/2015). Using a split-sample approach, we developed two prediction models, which included baseline demographics, clinical conditions (Model 1), concurrent use of any drug (Model 1) and therapeutic class (Model 2) with a risk of QT-prolongation (CQT-Rx). Patients enrolled in a health plan for 365 days before and five days after dispensing of azithromycin (episodes). Cardiac events included syncope, palpitations, ventricular arrhythmias, cardiac arrest as a primary diagnosis for hospitalization including death. For each model, a backward elimination of predictors using logistic regression was applied to identify predictors in 100 random samples of the training cohort. Predictors prevalent in >50% of the models were included in the final model. A score for the Assessment of Cardiac Risk with Azithromycin (ACRA) was generated using the training cohort then tested in the validation cohort. A cohort of 20,134,659 episodes with 0.03% cardiac events were included. Over 60% included females with mean age of 40.1±21.3 years. Age, sex, history of syncope, cardiac dysrhythmias, non-specific chest pain, and presence of a CQT-Rx were included as predictors for Model-1 (c-statistic = 0.68). For Model-2 (c-statistic = 0.64), predictors included age, sex, anti-arrhythmic agents, anti-emetics, antidepressants, loop diuretics, and ACE inhibitors. ACRA score is available online (bit.ly/ACRA_2020). The ACRA score may help identify patients who are at higher risk of cardiac events following treatment with azithromycin. Providers should assess the risk-benefit of using azithromycin and consider alternative antibiotics among high-risk patients.

The Prognostic Value of Exercise Echocardiography After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Exercise echocardiography (EE) is a valuable noninvasive method for diagnostic and prognostic assessment of ischemic cardiac disease. The prognostic value of a negative EE test is well known overall, but its role in patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention remains poorly validated. The aim of this study was to ascertain the prognostic value of treadmill EE and to determine predictors of cardiac events in this population, with an emphasis on nonpositive (negative or inconclusive) test results. A retrospective single-center study was performed. It included 516 patients (83% man; mean age, 62±9years) previously subjected to percutaneous coronary intervention who underwent treadmill EE between 2008 and 2017. Demographic, clinical, echocardiographic, and angiographic data were collected. The occurrence of cardiac events (cardiac death, acute coronary syndrome, or coronary revascularization) during follow-up was investigated. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate predictors of cardiac events. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate event-free survival rates. The results of EE were negative for myocardial ischemia in 245 patients (47.5%), inconclusive in 144 (27.9%), and positive in 127 (24.6%). During a mean follow-up period of 40±34months, cardiac events occurred in 152 patients (29.5%). The positive and negative predictive values of EE were 81.6% and 85.3%, respectively. The sensitivity of the exercise test was 73.9%, with specificity of 90.1%. Predictors of cardiac events were typical angina (hazard ratio [HR], 1.95; 95% CI, 1.16-3.27; P=.011), a positive ischemic response detected by electrocardiographic monitoring during EE (HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.21-3.34; P=.007), and the test result (inconclusive result: HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.51-2.19; P=.878; positive result: HR, 4.35; 95% CI, 2.42-7.80; P<.001). Patients with inconclusive (log-rank P=.038) and positive (log-rank P<.001) results had significantly more cardiac events during follow-up than those with negative EE test results. Focusing on those patients with nonpositive results, cardiac event-free survival rates at 1, 3, and 5years were 96.6±0.9%, 88.3±1.9%, and 79.5±2.6%, respectively. In this subpopulation, an inconclusive test result (HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.03-2.70; P=.039), more extensive coronary artery disease (two vessels: HR, 1.37; 95% CI, 0.75-2.30; P=.304; three vessels: HR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.38-4.87; P=.003), and arterial hypertension (HR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.10-3.91; P=.025) were significantly associated with the occurrence of cardiac events. Patients with known coronary disease with negative results on EE are at low risk for hard events. Patients with inconclusive results are at higher risk for cardiac events than those with negative results. The detection of patients with low-risk results on EE should decrease the number of unnecessary repeat invasive coronary angiographic examinations.

Usefulness of Lipoprotein (a) for Predicting Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Stable Angina Pectoris in Patients on Hemodialysis

Serum lipoprotein (a) level is genetically determined and remains consistent during a person's life. Previous studies have reported that people with high lipoprotein (a) level are at a high risk of cardiac events. We investigated the association between lipoprotein (a) levels and clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for stable angina pectoris (SAP) in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Serum lipoprotein (a) levels were measured on admission in 410 consecutive HD patients who underwent successful PCI for SAP. Patients were divided into 2 groups: low and high group having lipoprotein (a) level <40 mg/dL (n = 297) and ≧40 mg/dL (n = 113) respectively. After PCI, the incidence of major adverse cardiac event (MACE) including cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, necessity of a new coronary revascularization procedure (coronary bypass surgery, repeat target lesion PCI, PCI for a new non-target lesion) was analyzed. At a median follow-up of 24 months (12 to 37 months), MACE occurred in 188 patients (45.6%). The rate of MACE rate was significantly higher in the high lipoprotein (a) group than in the low lipoprotein (a) group (59.2% vs 40.7%, long-rank test chi-square = 12.3; p < 0.001). Cox analysis showed that high lipoprotein (a) level (Hazard Ratio, 1.62; 95% Confidence Interval, 1.19 to 2.20; p = 0.002) was an independent predictor for MACE after PCI. In conclusion, high lipoprotein (a) level was associated with a higher incidence of MACE after PCI for SAP in HD patients.

Natural History of Adapted Leaman Score Assessing Coronary Artery Disease Progression by Computed Tomography Angiography: A 7-Year Follow-Up Report

BackgroundCoronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) provides a non-invasive assessment of the coronary artery tree. Computed Tomography - adapted Leaman Score (CT-LeSc) has been shown to be an independent predictor of cardiac events in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with a score greater than 5 (high). PurposeTo investigate the relationship between CT-LeSc and the progression of CAD and to provide vessel- and segment-level CAD qualification and quantification at baseline and 7-year follow-up. MethodsPatients with multivessel CAD and CCTA assessments at baseline and follow-up were included. The CT-LeSc analysis was performed in a paired fashion. The patient-level scores and the differences between each phase were assessed by 2 analysts in an independent core laboratory. ResultsThis study analyzed 248 coronary segments from 17 patients with a mean follow-up interval of 7.5 ± 0.6 years. The mean CT-LeSc at baseline and follow-up were 14.6 ± 4.2 and 16.9 ± 1.5, respectively, with an absolute increase of 2.3 ± 1.8. The mean cumulative increase of new lesions was 0.2 ± 0.2 per year. Over time, 14.6% of the non-obstructive lesions became obstructive, and 15.0% of the non-calcified plaques became calcified. There were 29 new lesions found at follow-up, and out of these, 16 were obstructive and 19 were non-calcified. ConclusionIn patients at high risk for cardiac events, as determined by CT-LeSc, there was an increase in CT-LeSc, obstructive lesions, and calcified plaques over the 7-year follow-up period. Most of the new lesions were obstructive and non-calcified. This is the first report showing long-term serial imaging CCTA changes in a high-risk population.