History Of Atrial Fibrillation Research Articles

SARS-COV2 infection and heart failure an intricate link of mutual impact

Abstract Introduction COVID-19 became an unprecedented global challenge affecting all fields of medicine, though being initially considered a respiratory disease, it has rapidly become clear the multiorgan involvement of the disease. The aim of our study was to assess the outcome of hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with heart failure (HF) compared with patients with other cardiovascular disease and/or risk factors (arterial hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidaemia). Methods The research included 178 patients COVID-19, admitted to the cardiology department 18-83 years, the mean age being of 67,23 ± 13,20 years, whereas 47% (84 pts) were men and 53% (94 pts) were women. All subjects underwent physical examination, ECG and echocardiography. The following laboratory parameters were collected: haemoglobin, leukocytes (lymphocytes and neutrophils), platelets, plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T or I, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, arterial blood gases (pCO2, lactate), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanineaminotransferase (ALT), albumin, creatinine for calculation of eGFR, serum sodium and potassium, D-dimers, and international normalized ratio (INR). Results Of all patients in the CVDRF cohort, 26 (15%) patients experienced, HF events at admission or during hospitalization, of which 80 (46%) patients in the HF subgroup and 14 (8%) in the non-HF subgroup, the latter accounting for 40% of all observed HF events. In the CVDRF cohort, patients with an HF event were at a two-fold increased risk for in-hospital mortality compared with those without HF events, P < 0.001, OR 3.10 [2.24–4.29]), even after adjustment for age, sex, risk factors, and co-morbidities. Interaction for HF events and age was significant (P = 0.023), with an OR for HF events and in-hospital death of 3.41 (95% CI [1.96–5.93], P ≤ 0.001) in the <75 years age group and 2.82 (95% CI [1.71–4.65], P < 0.001) in the ≥75 years age group. There was no significant interaction between HF events and sex (P = 0.58). Age, CV diseases, CV risk factors, history of HF, atrial fibrillation, and CKD were significantly associated with HF events. Conclusions Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with HF are at increased risk for in-hospital death. In-hospital worsening of HF or acute HF de novo are common and associated with a further increase in in-hospital mortality.

Left appendage closure after intracranial hemorrhage: safety, efficacy and timing

Abstract Background Oral anticoagulation (OAC) use increases the risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is an alternative to OAC, however data about its use in patients with prior ICH is scare and the timing of its performance is controversial. Furthermore, the long-term outcomes in this group of patients have not been described. Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of LAAO in patients with non-valvular AF and prior ICH (CHA2SVASc >2) and to determine adequate timing of its performance. Methods The sample was obtained from a cohort of 397 patients with AF in which LAAO was performed between 2009 and 2020. In 115 of these patients, the indication for this procedure was ICH (29.8 %). Patients were divided into two groups: early occlusion (n=68; 59%), in which the procedure was performed before 90 days had elapsed after the bleeding, and late occlusion (n=47; 41%), after 90 days. Results Procedure success was 97% globally. Annual incidence of ischemic events was of 0,6%, with an absolute risk reduction of 5,9% and relative risk reduction of 90,3% compared to the predicted risk by CHA2DS2-VASC score. Regarding major hemorrhagic events, annual incidence was of 4%, with an absolute risk reduction of 3,4% and relative risk reduction of 45% compared to the predicted risk by HASBLED score. There were no significant differences between the procedures performed in patients with history of intracranial bleeding and other indications for the procedure. Early closure (first 90 days after the intracranial hemorrhage) was as safe as late closure, without an increase in in-hospital bleedings or complications. Furthermore, long-term follow-up demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (11.76% versus 46.8%; HR 0.2, IC95% 0.07-0.55; p<0.001). compared with late occlusion. Conclusions Left atrial appendage occlusion is an effective and safe treatment option to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke in selected patients with AF patients and history of ICH over mean follow-up of 3 years. Early occlusion seems to be at least as safe and effective as late occlusion and therefore could potentially reduce the rate of complications after ICH in selected patients.Survival and closure timingIschemic and bleeding risk reduction

Prognostic significance of thyroid disease in atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Thyroid disease (THD) has often been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) triggering, through endocrine mechanisms. Still, data on the impact of hypothyroidism on AF are contradictory. Our aim was to correlate the THD profile with the incidence of hard clinical endpoints in AF patients. Methods This post- hoc analysis of the MISOAC-AF RCT included hospitalized patients with AF and available history of THD. Patients were classified by categories of thyroid disease history (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, euthyroidism). Unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) were calculated using Cox regression models. Comparison groups included euthyroid compared to hypothyroid and hyperthyroid AF patients, respectively. All-cause mortality, cardiovascular death (CVD) and hospitalizations were the outcomes of interest. Survival analysis with the Kaplan-Meier curves was performed to analyze time-to-event data. Results A total of 496 AF patients followed-up for a mean of 2.7 years period, had available THD history and were included in the study. Of them, 16 patients (3.2%) were hyperthyroid, 141 (28.4%) hypothyroid, and 339 (68.4%) euthyroid. Patients with hypothyroidism had higher hospitalization rates during follow-up (aHR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.12 to 2.20, p=0.008, p=0.025) compared to the euthyroid group. Higher TSH levels were correlated with an increased risk of CVD (aHR: 1.03, 95%CI: 1.01 to 1.05, p=0.007) and hospitalizations (aHR: 1.06, 95%CI: 1.01 to 1.12, p=0.03), while lower T3 levels were correlated with higher all-cause mortality rates (aHR: 0.51, 95%CI: 0.31 to 0.82, p=0.006) and CVD risk (aHR: 0.42, 95%CI: 0.23 to 0.77, p=0.005). Conclusions In AF patients, hypothyroidism was associated with increased hospitalizations, while elevated TSH levels and decreased T3 levels were associated with increased CVD and all-cause mortality respectively.Hypothyroidism and clinical outcomes

Nurse-driven protocol for the management and follow-up of subclinical atrial fibrillation episodes in pacemaker patients

Abstract Background Atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) compatible with atrial fibrillation (AF) detected in pacemakers are associated with an increased risk of stroke. Nurses trained in pacemaker (PM) follow-up can detect theses AHREs during patient’ scheduled visits and provide the best care option to the patients. Purpose To evaluate a nurse protocol applied in these patients focused on a) identifying those with AHREs and taking into account the timing of these events and their duration, and b) provide the best care and follow-up then after. Methods and Results To create our protocol, we evaluated PM patients without a previous history of AF and classified the incidence of AHREs into 3 groups: >5 minutes to 24 hours; >24 hours and patients who are in clinical AF (documented on ECG) at the time of the visit. We also evaluate the time elapsed since PM implantation (£ 3 months vs > 3 months) and the type of atrial electrode fixation (active vs passive). In a prior study we analyzed 110 patients with AHREs >5 minutes and <24 hours (56% male, age 75 ± 9 years, mean CHA2DS2VACS scores of 3.5 ± 1.5). After 24 ± 9 months, 40 patients (36.4%) presented AHREs, and CT images showed ischemic brain lesions in 26 of them (23.6%). The presence of AHREs at 3 months was more frequent in patients with a recent MP implantation (17% vs 4.5%) and with a significant relationship with the type of active fixation of the electrode. The presence of ischemic lesions on CT was related to the detection of AHREs during follow-up, but not with AHREs in the first 3 months. Therefore, we designed a dedicated protocol for follow-up in these patients (AHREs >5 minutes and <24 hours) after PM implantation with repetitive follow-up visits assessing the evolution of AHREs. In cases of >24 hours and those with ECG documented AF, Guidelines recommendations were followed. Conclusions In PM patients, the presence of AHREs might be related to serious clinical complications. On the other hand, AHREs occur regularly during the first 3 months after PM implantation, maybe related to the procedure itself and the use of active fixation for the atrial lead. AHREs in this period may not be related to major complications and individual risk should be carefully assessed before starting anticoagulation. A dedicated protocol for closer follow-up visits in these patients might help to identify those at risk and prevent clinical events.

The importance of active rhythm monitoring in patients with renal infarction: Korean national health insurance registry

Abstract Background/Introduction Several studies reported that approximately 50% of renal infraction (RI) is caused by cardioembolic disease, particularly associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, in the Korean national health insurance database (NHIS), from 2013 to 2019, the prevalence of AF in patients with RI was only 15%. So, we aimed to analyze the incidence of newly developed AF in RI patients. Method This nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study included 5,200 patients with RI using the NHIS database from 2002 to 2012. We analyzed the incidence rate of AF during 12 months among the patients without previous history of AF. We selected clinical events after three months of RI diagnosis to exclude cases diagnosed by initial screening or with previously missed diagnosis of AF. The definition of RI, AF, and comorbidities use the ICD-10-CM codes. Result During the total follow-up period (median 2.5 years, interquartile range 1.04-4.25), AF occurred in 19.1% of RI patients (n=993). Most cases (n=837, 16.1%) occurred within a year, and the incidence of AF was 3.965 per 10,000 person-year. Patients with newly developed AF had a higher proportion of older age than those without AF (64.1 vs. 57.3 years, P<0.001). The prevalence of comorbidities, including hypertension (HTN), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and heart failure (HF), was higher in those with AF. The independent predictors of AF were age (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.05, 95% CI 1.04-1.05, P<0.001), male (aHR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09-1.45, P=0.002), body mass index (BMI) (aHR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06, P <0.001), current smoker (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.03-1.40, P =0.023), IHD (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.00-1.45, P =0.050) and HF (aHR 1.70, 95% CI 1.25-2.33, P =0.001). Additionally, the incidence of all-cause death was 14.264 per 10,000 person-year during the follow-up period. Conclusion Even if AF is not diagnosed in the initial screening after diagnosis of RI, the physician should consider active rhythm monitoring to detect subclinical AF for optimal management in these patients. Especially it might be helpful to reduce the burden of recurrent embolic events in those with risk factors, such as older age, male, higher BMI, current smoker, IHD, or HF.Cox regression analysisAtrial fibrillation cumulative incidence

Clinical impact of high platelet reactivity in patients with atrial fibrillation and concomitant percutaneous coronary intervention on dual or triple antithrombotic therapy

Abstract Background High platelet reactivity (HPR) on clopidogrel is an established thrombotic risk factor after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The introduction of more potent antiplatelet drugs has partially surpassed this issue. However, in the setting of concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) and PCI clopidogrel is still the most adopted P2Y12 inhibitor. Purpose We sought to evaluate the possible clinical relevance of genetic and platelet function testing (PFT) in a real-world population with concomitant AF and PCI on dual (DAT) or triple (TAT) antithrombotic therapy. Methods All consecutive patients with history of AF discharged from our cardiology ward with DAT or TAT after a PCI from April 2018 to March 2021 were enrolled in an observational registry. For all subjects, blood serum samples were collected and tested for platelet reactivity by arachidonic acid and ADP (VerifyNow system) and genotyping of the CYP2C19*2 loss-of-function polymorphism. We recorded at 3 and 12-months follow-up: (1) major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), (2) major hemorrhagic or clinically relevant non-major bleeding and (3) all-cause mortality. Results A total of 147 patients were included (91, 62% on TAT). In 93.4% of patients, clopidogrel was chosen as P2Y12 inhibitor. P2Y12 dependent HPR resulted an independent predictor of MACCE both at 3 and 12 months (HR 2.93, 95% C.I. 1.03 to 7.56, p=0.027 and HR 1.67, 95% C.I. 1.20 to 2.34, p=0.003, respectively). At 3-months follow-up the presence of CYP2C19*2 polymorphism was independently associated with MACCE (HR 5.21, 95% C.I. 1.03 to 26.28, p=0.045). Conclusions In a real-world unselected population on TAT or DAT, the entity of platelet inhibition on P2Y12 inhibitor is a potent predictor of thrombotic risk, suggesting the clinical utility of this laboratory evaluation for a tailored antithrombotic therapy in this high-risk clinical scenario.

Incidentally induced atrial fibrillation during programmed electrical stimulation in patients with depressed left ventricular systolic function after an acute myocardial infarction: a CARISMA substudy

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to investigate the clinically significant value of incidentally induced atrial fibrillation (AF) during programmed electrical stimulation (PES) in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (≤40%) after an acute myocardial infarction (MI). Methods In this study we included 231 patients from the Cardiac Arrhythmias and RIsk Stratification after Myocardial InfArction (CARISMA) study. These patients were identified 3-21 days after being diagnosed with an MI, had left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% and had no prior history of AF. They all received an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM) and were continuously monitored for cardiac arrhythmias for 2 years. A PES was performed 6 weeks post-MI with pacing from the right atrium and coronary sinus for induction of SVT and from the ventricular apex and outflow tract with up to three extra stimuli for induction of VT. Induction of AF was unwanted but reported if this incidentally occurred. Results AF was induced in 34 patients (15%) during the PES of which 10 (29%) later developed AF. A total of 61 patients (26%) developed AF within 2-years follow-up and the overall risk of AF was not significantly increased in patients with PES induced AF compared to patients without inducible AF (HR 1.6, P=0.14), however, the risk of AF ≤188 days post-MI was slightly increased (HR 3.0, P=0.01). The risk of bradyarrhythmia (HR=0.2, P=0.07), ventricular arrhythmias (HR=0.7, P=0.77) and MACE (HR 0.5, P=0.28) was reduced in patients with inducible AF compared to patients without inducible AF. Conclusions Incidentally induced AF during an electrophysiological study in post-MI patients was relatively frequent (15%) but was not associated with a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, other cardiac brady- or tachy-arrhythmias or major cardiac events. Even though the short-term risk for AF slightly increased, this does not seem to justify anticoagulation treatment or intensified follow-up in these patients.

Patterns of comorbidities and influence on the natural history of patients with atrial fibrillation: a latent class analysis from a prospective observational european AF registry

Abstract Background Patients with Atrial Fibrillation (AF) usually present with multiple comorbidities at diagnosis, and their combinations heterogeneously influence management and outcomes. While the effect of multimorbidity on the natural history of AF is well-known, the influence of patterns of multimorbidity is far less understood. Purpose To identify and analyse subgroups of AF patients according to their comorbidities, through a latent class analysis of a contemporary cohort of AF patients. Methods We used data from a European-wide prospective observational AF registry, and performed a latent class analysis, according to the presence of chronic diseases (including cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic and other conditions); class membership was assigned according to the modal posterior probability. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyse odds of receiving oral anticoagulant (OAC) prescription and type of OAC received; the risk of the primary outcome of all-cause death and MACE was assessed using multivariable Cox-regression model. Results 9,613 AF patients were included in this analysis (mean age 68.9 ± 11.4 years, 40.2% females), and were grouped in 5 classes, which were different according to the burden of comorbidities: low morbidity pattern (46.1%), cardiovascular pattern (25.0%), metabolic pattern (11.3%), heart failure pattern (9.7%) and multisystemic pattern (8.0%) (Figure 1). Patients in the multisystemic pattern were older and more frequently frail and with polypharmacy compared to other classes. Compared to the low morbidity pattern, odds of receiving OAC was lower in those with cardiovascular pattern (OR [95%CI]: 0.73 [0.62-0.86]), heart failure pattern (OR [95%CI]: 0.60 [0.48-0.75] and multisystemic pattern (OR [95%CI]: 0.28 [0.22-0.36]), while those with metabolic pattern were more likely prescribed OAC (OR [95%CI]: 1.55 [1.20-2.00]). All patterns were less likely treated with NOAC compared to VKA (Figure 2). When analysing the risk of the primary composite outcome, all patterns except for the metabolic pattern were associated with higher hazard of events, with highest magnitude observed for the heart failure pattern (HR 2.68 [95%CI: 2.22-3.25]) and the multisystemic pattern (HR 2.67 [2.13-3.35]) (Figure 2). Conclusions Comorbidities are heterogeneously distributed in the AF population, and different phenotypes of AF patients may be identified according to the combination of other chronic diseases, with different OAC use for stroke prevention and an unequal impact on long-term prognosis. These findings reinforce the need for tailored preventive strategies to improve outcomes in AF patients, especially those with multimorbidity.Figure 1Figure 2

Smartphone for heart sound measurement in hospital: which factors affect heart sound quality?

Abstract Background Smartphone has recently been utilized to measure heart sounds in general population, but not in hospitalized patients. Purpose To explore the factors affecting the quality of heart sounds collected from the patients using smartphone in hospital. Methods An App was developed for Android smartphone to use the built-in microphone for measuring heart sounds on cardiac apex for 20 – 30 seconds in patients. Heart sounds were visually assessed for the presence of the first and second heart sounds and categorized into good, uncertain or bad quality. The factors affecting the percentage of good-quality heart sound recordings were analyzed, including the patients’ baseline characteristics, medical history and blood test. Results Among the 296 patients enrolled, 267 (90%) patients had a good-quality heart sound recording. Good-quality heart sounds were less recorded in emergency room (76%), cardiac care unit (82%), intensive care unit (87%) and neurosurgical intensive care unit (88%). Sex, body mass index, body position (supine vs. sitting), heart rate, medical history of atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, did not significantly affect heart sound quality (all P > 0.05). An advanced age was related to a lower percentage of good-quality heart sounds (< 60 vs. ≥ 60 years: 94% vs. 87%, P = 0.048). Heart sound quality significantly decreased with red blood cell count, hemoglobin level and hematocrit (all P < 0.001). Conclusions Smartphone can be used in hospital settings for measuring heart sounds in good quality, but factors such as department of hospitalization, age and blood indicators need to be considered.Central illustration

Impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on the natural history of atrial fibrillation: a report from the GLORIA-AF registry phase II & III

Abstract Background The relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear. COPD may influence the management and prognosis of AF and may affect treatments, including beta-blockers prescription. Purpose To investigate the association between COPD and AF, and assess the impact of COPD on treatment patterns and major adverse outcomes in a large contemporary global cohort of AF patients. Methods The GLORIA-AF Registry enrolled newly diagnosed AF patients with at least 1 stroke risk factor. Diagnosis of COPD and treatments (including oral anticoagulant [OAC]) prescribed were recorded by investigators at baseline. We evaluated clinical characteristics associated with the diagnosis of COPD at baseline, OAC and other treatment prescription, and risk of OAC discontinuation. Adjusted Cox-regression models were utilized to analyse the relationship of COPD with major outcomes including a primary composite outcome of all-cause death and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Results 36,263 patients (mean age 70.1±10.5 years, 45.3% females) were included in this analysis. Patients with COPD (n=2,261, 6.2%) were older, and had higher thromboembolic risk. Increasing age, smoking status, BMI and cardiovascular comorbidities were associated with higher odds of COPD diagnosis at baseline. COPD was associated with higher odds of receiving OACs (Odds Ratio [OR] and 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.31, 1.15-1.49), and with a higher risk of discontinuing OACs during follow-up (hazard ratio (HR): 1.14, 95%CI: 1.03-1.27). COPD patients were more likely prescribed with digoxin and verapamil or diltiazem, with lower prescription of beta-blockers (OR [95%CI]: 0.79, 0.72-0.87; Figure 1) and amiodarone (OR [95%CI]: 0.83, 0.73-0.96). Patients with COPD were at higher risk of the primary outcome of all-cause death and MACE (Hazard Ratio [95%CI]: 1.78, 1.58-2.01; Figure 2), and were also found at higher risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, MACE and major bleeding, while no statistically significant differences were observed for thromboembolism. There was no statistically significant interaction between beta-blocker use and risk of the primary composite outcome in COPD patients. Conclusions COPD is associated with different treatment patterns in AF patients, higher risk of OAC discontinuation, and ultimately a poorer clinical prognosis, with an increased risk of all-cause death, MACE and major bleeding. Beta-blocker use appeared safe in COPD patients.Figure 1Figure 2

Abstract 17844: Association of Left Atrial Appendage Emptying Velocity With Type of Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction: Left atrial appendage emptying velocity (LAAev) is a surrogate for propensity of LAA thrombus and cardioembolic stroke. While atrial fibrillation (AF) is a known cause of reduced LAAev, relationship between type of AF and LAAev is unclear. Hypothesis: Long-standing persistent/permanent (LSP) AF is associated with reduced LAAev compared to paroxysmal/persistent AF. Methods: We searched transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) reports of unique individuals from 2016-2022 at the University of Kansas Medical Center. LAAev was obtained from Doppler TEE images. Type of AF and other variables were extracted from medical charts. Association of AF type with LAAev was assessed using univariate and multivariate linear regressions. The multivariate model including all significant univariate predictors comprised age, sex, hypertension, coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, history of venous thromboembolism, left atrial size, mitral regurgitation, left ventricular ejection fraction, rhythm during TEE, general anesthesia, eGFR, and platelet count. Results: Our study comprised 995 patients (female 38.1%, age 71.3±12.7 yr, white 89.3%) of whom 817 (82.1%) had history of AF (43.6% paroxysmal, 21.7% persistent, 16.8% LSP. Among the 817 patients with AF, history of LSP AF was associated with reduced LAAev both in univariate (β=-8.65±1.70 cm/s, p<0.0001) and multivariate (β=-3.77±1.98 cm/s; p=0.05) analyses. Conclusion: Even though CHA 2 DS 2 VASc score does not incorporate type of AF, we found LSP AF to be an independent marker for reduced LAAev. History of LSP AF should be considered in future AF-related stroke risk stratification models.

Abstract 17542: Impact of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation Detected by Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices on Embolic Stroke Events

Background: The association between atrial fibrillation (AF) detected by implanted cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) and the incidence of embolic stroke has been reported. However, the cut-off value of new-onset AF duration detected by CIEDs for embolic stroke is still unknown. In previous studies regarding the cut-off value of AF duration, patients who had a history of AF or had received anticoagulant therapies were also included. Therefore, the solo effect of AF on the risk of embolic stroke cannot be reliably evaluated on these studies. The aim of this study is to identify the incidence of embolic stroke in Japanese patients with a CIED and examine the cut-off value of AF duration detected by CIEDs as a risk factor for embolic stroke. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the database of our CIEDs clinic. Every 6 months, AF events were checked by CIEDs. Patients who had a history of AF or had received anticoagulant therapies before and after a CIED implantation were excluded. We examined the characteristics and incidence of embolic stroke and investigated the relationship between new-onset AF detected by CIEDs and the incidence of embolic stroke. Results: We enrolled 710 consecutive patients who were followed-up at our CIED clinic. We excluded 360 patients who had a history of AF or had received anticoagulant therapies. Finally, 350 patients (follow-up period, 75±58 months; age, 70±16 years) were included in this study. During the follow-up period, 24 patients (6.9%) had embolic stroke. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis confirmed that 30 seconds was the best cut-off value of AF duration detected by CIEDs for embolic stroke (AUC = 0.72). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that independent predictors for embolic stroke were left atrial diameter ≥40mm (p=0.019), new-onset AF ≥ 30 seconds (p = 0.0016). Conclusion: AF episodes lasting for ≥ 30 seconds was the risk factor of embolic stroke. We should evaluate AF burden carefully in this population.

Abstract 12424: Left Atrial Strain and Incident Heart Failure in Older Adults

Introduction: The prevalence of heart failure (HF) is rising, particularly in older adults. Left atrial (LA) dysfunction is commonly seen in HF, but it is unclear if it predicts onset or contributes to its development. Hypothesis: LA strain reduction is associated with incident HF in the general elderly population, independent of other risk factors and even in the presence of normal LA volume. Aims: We aimed to investigate the association between reduced LA strain (LAε) and strain rate (LASR) and incident HF in older adults without history of HF or atrial fibrillation (AF), adjusting for HF risk factors and echocardiographic parameters. Methods: We examined 795 participants aged ≥55 from the Cardiovascular Abnormalities and Brain Lesions (CABL) study with no history of HF or AF. LAε pos , LASR pos , LASR early-neg , and LASR late-neg were assessed using speckle-tracking echocardiography for global, reservoir, conduit and pump function, respectively. Incident HF was detected through standardized interviews, in-person visits, active hospital surveillance of admission and discharge ICD-9 codes. LA strain's association with incident HF was assessed using a cause-specific hazards regression model, adjusting for HF risk factors, including incident AF. Results: Mean age was 70.9±9.2 years (297 men, 498 women). During a mean follow-up of 11.4 years, 215 participants (27.0%) developed new-onset HF; incident AF occurred in 98 (12.3%). Left ventricular ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain were not associated with new-onset HF (p=0.06 and p=0.23, respectively). All LA strain measures at baseline were significantly associated with new-onset HF (all p<0.01). In multivariable analysis, only LASR late-neg (adjusted HR per SD decrease 2.31, 95% CI 1.12-4.43) remained independently associated with new-onset HF, after adjusting for LA volumes, left ventricular systolic function, and incident AF. LASR late-neg was especially associated with incident HF in participants with normal LA size (HR 8.64, CI 3.10-24.08). Conclusion: Reduced LA strain during atrial contraction is independently associated with new-onset HF in older adults. LA strain measurement may improve HF risk stratification in older adults, even in the presence of normal LA volume.

Abstract 18368: Management of Incident AF in Hospitalized Patients - Deficient, Delayed, Detrimental

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is potentially associated with significant complications including stroke and cardiac decompensation. Early appropriate AF management mitigates this risk. However, intervention is frequently delayed - a median of 1.5 days from AF onset in the ICU to clinical response. We sought to better understand delays in detection and management of AF in patients admitted to a cardiology bed and the consequences of delays. Methods: We undertook a retrospective review of 498 patients admitted to cardiology beds at the University of Virginia Medical Center who had automated algorithmic detection of AF episodes lasting ≥6 min. Time from algorithmic detection to clinical identification, AF burden, AF interventions and complications, medical history, and demographics were identified in each patient’s chart. Results: Of the 498 patients, 171 had an algorithmically detected episode of AF that was not acknowledged medically. These undetected episodes were generally shorter relative to episodes that were acknowledged (median 8 min vs. 52 min). 96 of the 498 patients had initial clinical detection of AF following algorithm detection; of the 96, 21 received early intervention (within 60 min), 51 received late intervention (after 60 min), and 24 received no intervention at all. Patients with early intervention experienced less AF burden compared to late and no intervention groups (median 8.6 hrs vs 21.75 hrs vs 29.35 hrs). Late intervention patients had more AF related complications compared to early intervention patients (9.8% vs. 4.8%). 20.8% of patients with clinical acknowledgement of AF but no intervention suffered a complication. Patients with a history of AF were more likely to have delays in intervention and over twice as likely to suffer an AF complication compared to those with no history (15.6% vs. 7.4%). Patients of lower socioeconomic status (SES) were also more likely to experience a complication. Conclusions: In summary, cardiology inpatients at our hospital commonly experience delays in management of AF that are considerable in duration, resulting in greater AF burden and higher complication rates. Differences in management, and subsequent outcomes, following AF appear to be impacted by prior history of AF and patient SES.

Abstract 15998: Impact of Atrial Fibrillation Detected by Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices on Embolic Stroke Events in Cancer Patients

Background: Cancer patients have a higher risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) than general population, however, the link between cancer and AF is not fully understood. The association between AF detected by implanted cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) and the incidence of embolic stroke events has been reported. However, little is known about the incidence of AF and embolic stroke events in Japanese cancer patients with CIEDs. Moreover, the cut-off value of new-onset AF duration detected by CIEDs for embolic stroke is still unknown, and a problem to be solved in the future. The aim of this study is to identify the incidence of embolic stroke in Japanese cancer patients with a CIED and to examine the risk factors of embolic stroke. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the database of our CIEDs clinic. Every 6 months, AF events were checked by CIEDs. Patients who had a history of AF or had received anticoagulant therapies before a CIED implantation and who are prescribed anticoagulants after a CIED implantation were excluded. We examined the characteristics and incidence of embolic stroke events and investigated the relationship between new-onset AF detected by CIEDs and the incidence of embolic stroke. Results: We enrolled 138 consecutive cancer patients with CIEDs who had no prior AF and took no anticoagulant in this study (follow-up period, 76±48 months; age, 73±16 years). During the follow-up period, 13 patients (9.4%) had embolic stroke events. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis confirmed that 20 seconds was the best cut-off value of AF duration detected by CIEDs for embolic stroke events (AUC = 0.75). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that independent predictors for embolic stroke were left atrial diameter ≥ 40mm (P=0.018) and new-onset AF ≥ 20 seconds (P = 0.0082). Conclusions: AF episodes lasting for ≥ 20 seconds and enlarged left atrium were the risk factors of embolic stroke events. We consider examining AF burden carefully in this population.

Abstract 16107: Post-Cardioversion Device-Related Thrombus in a Patient With Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Device on Apixaban

Introduction and Importance: Current guidelines recommend against pre-procedural transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) prior to cardioversion in atrial fibrillation patients compliant with oral anticoagulants for at least 3 weeks. The relevance of these guidelines remain unclear in those undergoing repeat cardioversion. Case Presentation: 66-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation and an implanted left atrial appendage occlusion device(LAAO), compliant with apixaban, presented with dyspnea and lightheadedness. He was cardioverted into sinus rhythm 10 days prior to symptom onset with TEE unremarkable for thrombus. Vitals were remarkable for tachycardia and electrocardiogram revealed that the patient converted back into atrial fibrillation. Patient was then scheduled for cardioversion. At the patient’s request, a TEE was obtained which revealed a new thrombus in the left atrium located on his WATCHMAN device. Cardioversion was canceled and patient was admitted for coumadin initiation with lovenox bridge along with neurological monitoring due to increased stroke risk. Clinical Discussion: Restoration of sinus rhythm after cardioversion can lead to thrombus formation due to atrial stunning, a transitory dysfunction of the atrial appendage and atrium.Atrial stunning occurs immediately after cardioversion and can persist for several weeks. Time-span of preceding atrial fibrillation, presence of structural cardiovascular disease, and atrial size impact severity of atrial stunning and duration of anticoagulation needed.While anticoagulation decreases the risk of thrombus formation, it does not completely eliminate it, especially in those with increased stroke risk factors. Conclusion: Atrial fibrillation patients are susceptible to thrombus formation after cardioversion.Further studies should be done to assess the need for routine TEE after cardioversion in those with increased risk for stroke on anticoagulants or who have LAAO.

Abstract 17764: Clinical Outcomes and Predictors of Vasoplegia in Patients Undergoing Orthotopic Cardiac Transplantation at a High-Volume Single-Center

Background: Patients undergoing heart transplantation are at significant risk of the developing post-operative vasoplegia, which is associated with poor outcomes. Despite significant burden to these patients, risk factors for development of vasoplegia are poorly understood. We assess these risk factors and outcomes in patients undergoing orthotopic heart transplant at our high-volume academic center. Methods: 173 patients underwent cardiac transplantation between January 1 st , 2015 and February 28 th 2022 at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Baseline demographics, operative characteristics, peri-operative management, and long-term follow-up data were obtained. Vasoplegia was defined as provider documentation of vasoplegia for patients with persistent hypotension requiring the use of one or more vasopressors to maintain mean arterial pressures >65 mmHg in the absence of other explainable causes (cardiogenic shock, sepsis, etc.) The two primary endpoints assessed were development of vasoplegia in the 48 hours post-transplant and all-cause mortality. Statistical significance was assessed using Chi-squared, analysis of variance, or Kruskal-Wallis where appropriate. Results: In total, 173 patients underwent cardiac transplantation. 89 (51.4%) developed vasoplegia in the post-operative period. 130 (75.1%) were males. The average age at transplant was 56 years. Patients with vasoplegia were more likely to have history of atrial fibrillation (p=0.01) and had higher BMI (p<0.01) compared to those without. There were otherwise no significant differences in demographic data such as past medical history and medication history in those with and without vasoplegia. Patients with vasoplegia had significantly higher cardiopulmonary bypass times (p=0.01), aortic cross-clamp times (p<0.01) and need for red blood cell transfusion peri-operatively (p=0.02). Patients with vasoplegia had higher 30-day mortality (p=0.03), however there was no significant difference in 1-year mortality for those with and without vasoplegia. Conclusions: Vasoplegia is common following orthotopic heart transplant, and short-term mortality is high. Appropriate risk-stratification is paramount in caring for these high-risk patients.

Abstract 14916: Clinical and Socioeconomic Factors Associated With Time to Surgery and Preoperative Mortality in Surgery-Eligible Patients With Rheumatic Valvular Heart Disease in Uganda

Background: There is a considerable gap between those needing and receiving surgery among people with rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Uganda. Nevertheless, risk factors associated with time to surgery and preoperative mortality among those in need of surgery remain poorly understood. Methods: A cohort of patients with RHD who met criteria for valve surgery was assembled using the Uganda National RHD Registry (Jan. 2009- Aug. 2022). Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to estimate time to surgery and death for those awaiting surgery. Results: 1,452 patients met surgical indication for valvular RHD. Median age was 20 years (interquartile range [IQR] 13-36), and 30.4% were male. 29.4% had multiple concurrent valve indications. During a median follow-up of 357 days (IQR 21-1029), 30.6% died while awaiting surgery and 13.5% obtained surgery. Median time to surgery was 9.3 years. Multivariable time to surgery model adjusted for age, socioeconomic factors, and HIV status revealed significantly increased likelihood of surgery in men vs. women (hazard ratio [HR] 1.78; 95% CI 1.21-2.64), college/university vs. none/primary school education (HR 3.60; 95% CI 1.88-6.89), and history of atrial fibrillation (HR 2.78; 95% CI 1.63-4.76), but decreased likelihood of surgery in age ≥18 years (HR 0.49; 95% CI 0.32-0.77) and NYHA class III/IV vs. I/II (HR 0.51; 95% CI 0.32-0.83). Median preoperative time to death was 4.6 years. Following stratification by NYHA class I/II and III/IV and adjustment for age, sex, and socioeconomic class, the following predictors were associated with increased mortality in both models: history of infective endocarditis (HR 2.38; 95% CI 1.05-5.39), RV dysfunction (HR 2.44; 95% CI 1.13-5.27), pericardial effusion (HR 1.68; 95% CI 1.27-2.21), surgical indication for multiple valves (HR 1.77; 95% CI 1.41-2.21), and atrial fibrillation (HR 1.47; 95% CI 1.03-2.10). Conclusions: Our analysis revealed a low rate of surgical intervention and high mortality rate in a high-risk population of Ugandans living with advanced RHD and operative indication. Unsurprisingly, sex and socioeconomic status remain barriers to receipt of surgery that must be addressed to achieve equity in this neglected disease.

Role of atrial high-rate episodes in stratifying thromboembolic risk: a multiple cut-off diagnostic meta-analysis.

Despite the high prevalence rate of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) detected using cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), clinical guidelines and consensus documents have disagreed on a universal AHRE definition and a temporal cut-off related to subsequent thromboembolic events. This diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis aims to derive the optimal temporal threshold of clinically significant AHREs from the available literature. The PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were screened for studies on CIED patients reporting the incidence of thromboembolic events related to at least one AHRE temporal cut-off. A total of 23 studies were included: 19 considering the longest single AHRE and four the AHRE burden, respectively. A random-effect diagnostic test accuracy meta-analysis with multiple cut-offs was performed. Two analyses were performed according to the AHRE temporal cut-off subtype (longest episode vs. cumulative burden). The analysis on the longest single AHRE indicated 0.07 min as the optimal duration to differentiate AHRE associated or not with thromboembolic events [sensitivity 65.4% (95% CI 48.8%-79.0%), specificity 52.7% (95% CI 46.0%-59.4%), and area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-SROC): 0.62]. The analysis on AHRE burden indicated 1.4 min as the optimal cut-off [sensitivity 58.2% (95% CI 25.6%-85.0%), specificity 57.5% (95% CI 42.0%-71.7%), and AUC-SROC 0.60]. A sensitivity analysis excluding patients with a history of atrial fibrillation and including high-quality studies only yielded similar results. The presence of AHRE, rather than a specific duration, relates to an increased, albeit low, thromboembolic risk in CIED patients. Any AHRE should constitute an additional element in patient-specific thromboembolic risk assessment.

Abstract 12278: A Case of Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis Caused by a Rare Mutation

Introduction: Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is an underdiagnosed multisystem disease caused by dissociation of the tetrameric structure, misfolding, and deposition of the protein transthyretin. More than 100 known mutations that decrease the stability of transthyretin have been implicated in hereditary ATTR (ATTRv). Organ tropism and disease progression can vary significantly depending on the specific mutation, though cardiomyopathy and neuropathy are the most common phenotypes (Figure 1b). Reproducibly tracking the pattern of end organ dysfunction in ATTRv caused by novel mutations may help elucidate the mechanism of mutation-specific organ tropism and predict the potential disease course for patients with the same mutation. Case: The index patient is an 86-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation, tachy-brady syndrome requiring a pacemaker, orthostatic hypotension, peripheral neuropathy, and left ventricular hypertrophy (interventricular septum 1.4 cm prior to diagnosis) on echocardiogram. The constellation of symptoms raised the clinical suspicion for amyloidosis which was confirmed on endomyocardial biopsy. Given his age, he was presumed to have wild type ATTR by the local team. Upon referral to our center, genetic testing was performed which revealed the missense mutation c.229G>A which results in the amino acid substitution p.Gly77Arg, and has previously only been reported in one patient in Sweden. We initiated family screening and identified multiple family members with the mutation with varying phenotypes including no symptoms, cardiomyopathy, and neuropathy (figure 1a). Discussion: We identified a family with a rare c.229G>A mutation, and report on a mixed cardiomyopathy and neuropathy phenotype. Our report highlights the importance of screening for pathologic genetic variants in all patients with a diagnosis of ATTR given the treatment and prognostic implications for patients and their family members.