Holter ECG Research Articles

Chronic clinical performance of a novel subxiphoidal pacemaker system: Early feasibility study design.

Extravascular and leadless pacemakers are a new class of cardiac devices that may reduce the rate of complications common to traditional cardiac pacemakers with intracardiac leads. These devices also have the potential of expanding access to cardiac pacing therapy by simplifying the complexity and cost of implantation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the implantation, chronic safety, and performance of a novel subxiphoidal pacemaker. This study is an open-label, non-randomized, early feasibility study. Ten patients indicated for implantation of a single-chamber ventricular pacemaker will be enrolled and implanted with the investigational device. The pacemaker will be inserted underneath the ribcage and clipped to the xiphoid process, with stimulation electrodes positioned on the cardiac pericardium. Patients will be programmed to chronic pacing; pacing capture threshold, sensing amplitude, and lead impedance will be measured at implant and regularly scheduled follow-up visits. 24-h Holter ECG and cardiac troponin will also be periodically measured. Adverse events will be recorded throughout the study period. This study is designed to assess the feasibility, safety, and chronic performance of a novel extravascular pacemaker, and will provide valuable data on whether this device has the potential to be a viable alternative to conventional pacemakers.

Cardiac safety of ribociclib evaluated with 24-hour rhythm Holter electrocardiogram

ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate cardiac safety profile of ribociclib with 24-h rhythm Holter ECG.Material and methodForty-two female metastatic breast cancer patients were included in the study. Rhythm Holter ECG was performed before starting treatment with ribociclib and after 3 months of the treatment initiation.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 56.36 ± 12.73. 52.4% (n = 22) of the patients were using ribociclib in combination with fulvestrant and 47.6% (n = 20) with aromatase inhibitors. None of the patients developed cardiotoxicity. When the rhythm Holter results before and in third month of the treatment were compared, there was no statistically significant difference.ConclusionThis is the first study evaluating effects of ribociclib treatment on cardiac rhythm with Holter ECG. The findings suggested ribociclib has a low risk of causing early cardiotoxicity.

Assessing the Impact of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease on Severity of Silent Myocardial Ischemia in Patients with Arterial Hypertension

The objective: to evaluate the effect of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on the severity of silent myocardial ischemia in patients with arterial hypertension.Subjects and Methods. Examinations and follow-up of 194 COPD patients who were undergoing outpatient follow-up and treatment were analyzed. Those patients suffered from COPD with concurrent arterial hypertension or isolated arterial hypertension.Results. Holter ECG monitoring should be done in all COPD patients regardless of severity of the disease and presence of comorbid conditions. This is due to the high prevalence of silent myocardial ischemia in such patients.

Artificial intelligence in traumatology and orthopedics. Reality, fantasy or false hopes?

Background. In recent years, the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine has been actively discussed not just as a promising solution but the one that can help to improve some results. A significant growth of interest in AI systems all over the world began in the early-mid 2010s, which allowed us to consider the practical application of such systems. The aim of the study is to analyze all the software products (SP) registered in our country as a medical device, including those with AI technology, and to evaluate their applicability in traumatology and orthopedics. Methods. The study included all the SP having a registration certificate of a medical device according to the OKPD2 code 58.29.XX.XXX (services for publishing other software). In the state register of medical devices and organizations (individual entrepreneurs), which is engaged in the production and manufacturing of medical devices, we found 111 registered SP according to the inclusion criterion, as at February 14, 2024. Results. We proposed to categorize all registered SP as follows: systems working with the DICOM standard images (47 pcs, 42%), laboratory data (20 pcs, 18%), microscopy images (7 pcs, 6%), photographic images (5 pcs, 5%), medical information systems (4 pcs, 4%), text data mining systems (3 pcs, 3%), clinical decision support systems (3 pcs, 3%), Holter ECG analysis (2 pcs, 2%), other systems (16 pcs, 14%). Systems applicable to traumatology and orthopedics accounted for 4 pcs (4%). Conclusions. Unfortunately, the real-world applicability of existing solutions in the field of traumatology and orthopedics can be regarded as minimal in comparison with pulmonology, oncology, and laboratory diagnostics, where AI programs have already achieved significant success.

Diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea in patients with pauses in Holter ECG monitoring: case series

Diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea in patients with pauses in Holter ECG monitoring: case series

Impact of spa therapy on physical activity, sleep and heart rate variability among individuals with fibromyalgia: Results of an ancillary study

Spa therapy is recommended to manage symptoms of fibromyalgia, but the physiological mechanisms underlying this improvement have been poorly studied. In an original study, we explored the effect of a 3-week rheumatology spa treatment for fibromyalgia patients on quality of life and with a symptom severity questionnaire. We present here the results of an ancillary study which explored three secondary criteria using objective measurement methods: diurnal actimetry for physical activity analysis, nocturnal actimetry for sleep analysis and heart rate variability. Eighty-three fibromyalgia patients were randomized to participate in an immediate 3-week rheumatological spa therapy, either a start within 6 weeks after inclusion (interventional group, n = 39) or a delayed, start 6 months after inclusion (control group, n = 44). Patients were asked to wear an actimeter (n = 56) to assess diurnal physical activity and sleep quality and a 24-h Holter ECG (n = 60) to assess nocturnal heart rate variability at baseline, 3 months and 6 months after inclusion. Time spent in sedentary and light physical activity was reduced to ∼30 min at 6 months in the interventional group (P = 0.027). Sleep quality and heart rate variability were not improved. Spa therapy made it possible to reduce sedentary activities in patients’ daily life for up to 6 months afterwards, concomitant with the improvement in quality of life, pain and fatigue as highlighted in the original Thermalgi study.

Acute myocardial infarction in patients with concomitant hypothyroidism: clinical features and heart rate variability during inpatient treatment

Objective: to evaluate the features of the clinical course, as well as heart rate variability (HRV) during inpatient treatment in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and concomitant newly diagnosed hypothyroidism.Materials and methods: the study included 133 patients with STEMI aged 40 to 88 years who were admitted to the cardiology department. Depending on the presence of newly diagnosed hypothyroidism syndrome, all patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 consisted of patients with STEMI without hypothyroidism syndrome (n=57), group 2A — patients with STeMI and subclinical hypothyroidism (n=42) and group 2B — patients with STeMI and manifest hypothyroidism (n=34). Clinical symptoms and complications in the acute period of MI were evaluated in all patients, and Holter ECG monitoring (XM ECG) was performed.Results: during hospital treatment, patients with concomitant manifest hypothyroidism showed more frequent development of cardiac arrhythmias such as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) (p<0.05), supraventricular extrasystole (NE), paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (LVT) (p<0,05). When assessing the risk of early complications in the acute period of MI, higher scores were recorded in patients with manifest hypothyroidism (p<0.05). The analysis of HRV indicators showed that in the studied patients with concomitant manifest hypothyroidism, despite the presence of an acute period of MI, activation of the parasympathetic link of the ANS (autonomic nervous system) prevails in the regulation of heart rhythm, unlike in patients of the control group and the group with subclinical hypothyroidism, in whom, on the contrary, the influence of the sympathetic link of the ANS prevails.Conclusion: during hospitalization, patients with manifest hypothyroidism were statistically significantly more likely to develop supraventricular cardiac arrhythmias, and a higher risk of cardiovascular complications in the acute period of MI was determined compared with both the control group and the group of patients with subclinical hypothyroidism. In patients with concomitant manifest hypothyroidism, the activation of the parasympathetic link of the ANS in the regulation of heart rhythm is more pronounced, in contrast to patients in the control group and the group with subclinical hypothyroidism, in whom, on the contrary, the influence of the sympathetic link of the ANS prevails.

Advanced Atrioventricular Block in Athletes: Prevalence and Role of Anti-Ro/Sjögren Syndrome-Related Antigen A Antibodies.

Advanced atrioventricular block (AVB), that is, higher than second-degree Mobitz-1, is an abnormal finding in athletes. Despite intensive investigation, in several cases the pathogenesis remains unknown, but frequently pacemaker implantation is still indicated. Increasing evidence points to circulating anti-Ro/Sjögren syndrome-related antigen A (SSA) antibodies cross-reacting with L-type calcium channel and inhibiting the related current as an epidemiologically relevant and potentially reversible cause of isolated AVB in adults. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of anti-Ro/SSA-associated advanced AVBs in a large sample of young athletes. A total of 2536 consecutive athletes aged <40 years without a history of cardiac diseases/interventions were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Resting and exercise electrocardiography was performed, and those presenting any AVB were further evaluated by 24-hour Holter ECG. Athletes with second-degree AVBs and their mothers underwent anti-Ro/SSA testing. Moreover, purified immunoglobulin G from subjects with anti-Ro/SSA-positive and anti-Ro/SSA-negative advanced AVB were tested on L-type calcium current and L-type-calcium channel expression using tSA201 cells. The global prevalence of advanced AVB in the overall sample was ≈0.1%, but the risk considerably increased (2%) when intensely trained postpubertal male subjects were selectively considered. While none of the athletes with advanced AVB showed heart abnormalities, in 100% of cases anti-Ro/SSA antibodies were detected. Exvivo experiments showed that immunoglobulin G from anti-Ro/SSA-positive but not -negative subjects with advanced AVB acutely inhibit L-type calcium current and chronically downregulate L-type-calcium channel expression. Our study provides evidence that advanced AVB occurs in young athletes, in most cases associated with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies blocking L-type calcium channels. These findings may open new avenues for immunomodulating therapies to reduce the risk of life-threatening events in athletes, avoiding or delaying pacemaker implantation.

Мікроциркуляція та варіабельність серцевого ритму при хронічній ішемічній хворобі серця і COVID-19

COVID-19 is associated with a wide range of negative effects on the cardiovascular system. The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the interdependence of changes in the microcirculation system and heart rate variability in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD). An ECG study was performed in 12-lead leads, as well as 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). Patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 included patients with coronary artery disease (n = 32), group 2 - with coronary artery disease in combination with COVID-19 (n = 35), and group 3 - with COVID-19 (n = 35). The control group consisted of 30 conditionally healthy individuals. All subjects were determined: microcirculation index, capillary blood flow reserve of the occlusion test, as well as nitroglycerin test and wavelet transform indicators (the relationship between the frequency and amplitude of microcirculatory oscillations, which are divided into endothelial, neurogenic, myogenic, respiratory and cardiac mechanisms of microcirculation regulation). The deterioration of endothelial function, as measured by the maximum amplitude of endothelial flux motions, should be noted, and a decrease in the endotheliumdependent and endothelium-independent components of microcirculation regulation. The capillary blood flow reserve of the occlusion test in patients with CAD in combination with COVID-19 was lower than in patients with CAD (group 1) and COVID-19 (group 3). In patients of the study groups, the total heart rate variability decreased, parasympathetic activity was weakened, and the QT interval duration and its variability increased compared with controls. These changes were most pronounced in patients with coronary artery disease in combination with COVID-19 in terms of the standard deviation of all intervals, the parasympathetic component of regulation, and both characteristics of the QT interval. Thus, patients with chronic CAD and concomitant COVID-19, along with endothelial dysfunction and worsening venous outflow, showed signs of autonomic dysregulation and increased QT interval duration and variability. Additional consideration of the characteristics of the microcirculatory bed, heart rate variability and QT interval is advisable in the examination system of such patients.

Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Marker for Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy in Egyptian Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is one of the most serious complications of diabetes. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and CAN in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) using 24-hour Holter ECGand to assess the relationship between NLR and severity of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Thiscross-sectional studyincluded 90 T2D patients with DPN confirmed by nerve conduction study (NCS). A 24-hour Holter ECG was done to detect the decrease in heart rate variability (HRV). Laboratory parameters, including fasting blood glucose, creatinine, cholesterol, triglyceride, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, as well as CBC, neutrophils, lymphocytes, NLR, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), were calculated accordingly. An albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) test was done and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated. Chronic kidney disease was diagnosed by the presence of albuminuria (≥30 mg/g creatinine) and/or eGFR less than 60. Based on the 24-hourHolter ECG, 25 patients out of 90 (27.7%) had CAN. On comparing both the CAN and non-CAN groups, the CAN group had higher HbA1C (p = 0.005), higher NLR (p = 0.014), and higher neutrophils (p = 0.10). Also, PLR was higher in the CAN group than in the non-CAN group, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.180). Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that NLR with a cutoff of 1.7 succeeded in detecting patients with CAN. NLR can be used as an inexpensive and accessible marker to detect patients with diabetes at risk for developing CAN.

Clinical and Therapeutic Aspects of Ischemic Stroke in Atrial Fibrillation at the Neurology Department of CHU Conakry

Introduction: The main cause of ischemic stroke in our setting is atrial fibrillation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and therapeutic aspects of atrial fibrillation during ischemic stroke. Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study lasting one year from November 1, 2020 to November 31, 2021, involving all patients with ischemic stroke diagnosed by CT or MRI. We included patients with atrial fibrillation confirmed by a 12-lead électrocardiogrammes (ECG) or a 24-hour ECG holter. Thromboembolic risk was assessed by the CHA2DS2Vasc score and bleeding risk by the HAS-BLED score. Results: A total of 1,400 patients (19.64%) were enrolled. Mean age was 57.3 +/-16.64 years, predominantly female (54.5%), with hypertension as a risk factor (45.09%). The mean NIHSS score was 17.9 +/-3.2, associated with disorders of consciousness (44.36%) and hemiplegia (100%). atrial fibrillation was persistent in 54.90% of cases. A CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 2 was found in 94.9% of cases, and a low HAS-BLED score in 73% of cases, for whom Rivaroxaban was the first-line treatment in 76.72% of cases. Conclusion: This study has shown that atrial fibrillation is common in cardioembolic cerebral infarctions with age and hypertension as risk factors.

Heartbeat Chronicles: Decoding the Interplay of Echocardiography and Heart Rate Variability in Chronic Heart Failure Patients – Unraveling the Mysteries with Traditional and Advanced 24-Hour Holter ECG Parameters

Abstract Objective Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a clinical syndrome that encompasses individuals who either have received a definitive diagnosis of heart failure or display a gradual escalation of symptoms as time elapses. Echocardiography, particularly evaluating left ventricular function, is crucial for diagnosis and prognosis. However, 24-hour Holter monitoring, focusing on heart rate variability (HRV), provides insights into autonomic dynamics and vulnerability. Recent HRV parameters offer nuanced information, enhancing risk stratification and guiding personalized interventions in CHF. The interplay between echocardiography and HRV enables a comprehensive approach, refining the management of CHF by considering both cardiac structure and autonomic regulation. Methods This prospective study at “St. Spiridon” County Hospital involved 80 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) &lt; 50%. The diagnosis was according to standard clinical echocardiography, laboratory panel, and Holter ECG monitoring. Results Unexpectedly, no statistically significant relationship was found between commonly used HRV parameters and echocardiographic parameters. Further analyses showed statistically significant associations between non-traditional HRV parameters and E/A ratio, E/E’, and S’ lateral and septal. Additionally, modifications in HRV parameters were correlated with mitral valve deceleration time, left atrial volume index, estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and cardiac output. Conclusions Less commonly used Holter ECG parameters, such as acceleration capacity, deceleration capacity, and triangular index, demonstrated significant diagnostic efficacy, especially when conventional HRV parameters were normal. This highlights the importance of incorporating non-traditional HRV parameters in CHF patient risk stratification, urging further exploration through comprehensive multicenter studies for long-term prognostic implications.

The Role of Galectin-3 Levels for Predicting Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source.

Background/Objectives: Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is an important cause that is thought main potential factor in Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). Extended Holter ECG is an expensive and time-consuming examination. It needs another tools for predicting PAF in ESUS patients. In this study, serum galectin-3 levels, ECG parameters (PR interval, P wave time and P wave peak time) LA volume index, LA global peak strain and atrial electromechanical conduction time values were investigated for predicting PAF. Methods: 150 patients with ESUS and 30 volunteers for the control group were recruited to study. 48-72 h Holter ECG monitoring was used for detecting PAF. Patients were divided into two groups (ESUS + PAF and ESUS-PAF) according to the development of PAF in Holter ECG monitoring. Results: 30 patients with ESUS whose Holter ECG monitoring showed PAF, were recruited to the ESUS + PAF group. Other 120 patients with ESUS were recruited to the ESUS-PAF group. PA lateral, PA septum, and PA tricuspid were higher in the ESUS + PAF group (p < 0.001 for all). Serum galectin-3 levels were significantly higher in ESUS + PAF than in ESUS-PAF and control groups (479.0 pg/mL ± 435.8 pg/mL, 297.8 pg/mL ± 280.3 pg/mL, and 125.4 ± 87.0 pg/mL, p < 0.001, respectively). Serum galectin-3 levels were significantly correlated with LAVI, PA lateral, and global peak LA strain (r = 0.246, p = 0.001, p = 0.158, p = 0.035, r = -0.176, p = 0.018, respectively). Conclusion: Serum galectin-3 levels is found higher in ESUS patients which developed PAF and Serum galectin-3 levels are associated LA adverse remodeling in patients with ESUS.

Safety and effectiveness of additional left atrial posterior wall ablation using pulsed field ablation for persistent and long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation patients.

The unique safety profile of pulsed field ablation (PFA) has made pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) + left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) ablation promising for treating persistent atrial fibrillation (PerAF). The goal of this study was to assess long-term freedom from atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia (AF/AFL/AT), as well as the safety and feasibility of LAPW PFA using multipolar, pentaspline Farawave catheter. Retrospective observational study at a single institution. Data for 94 patients were collected from a prespecified intraprocedural registry. The long-term AF/AFL/AT recurrence assessment was based on an analysis of medical history; 24-h Holter ECGs at 3, 6, and 12 months postablation; and 12-lead ECGs recorded during symptomatic episodes or visits. Half of the patients had ls-PerAF, and half had a history of catheter ablation-mostly RF PVI. The acute ablation success rate was 100%, and the primary safety outcome was observed in 2 patients. Fifty patients experienced AF/AFL/AT recurrence (54.3%). An increase in LAPW low-voltage areas and AF classification were associated with arrhythmia recurrence. After a median follow-up of 13 months, the Kaplan‒Meier estimated median time free of AF/AFL/AT after a single procedure was 14.7 months. PFA PVI + PWA had the best outcome in perAF patients without extensive LA fibrosis. AF recurrence was paroxysmal in significant part of the cohort. The addition of PWA to PVI using multipolar PFA was safe and did not significantly influence the transpired ablation time.

Catheter ablation of papillary muscle arrhythmias: procedural characteristics and long term outcome

Abstract Background Ventricular arrhythmias (VA) originating from the papillary muscles can occur both in patients with and without structural heart disease. Although catheter ablation is the treatment of choice, ablation success remains challenging and long-term outcomes for this origin of VA are still unsatisfactory. Methods and Results All patients undergoing catheter ablation for premature ventricular contractions or ventricular tachycardia between june 2009 and november 2022 were analyzed. 66 patients (26 female (39%), mean age 60±15 years) undergoing catheter ablation of VA originating from the papillary muscle were identified. 21/66 (32%) patients had a reduced or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction at time of initial presentation. While mitral valve regurgitation was present in 32/66 (48%) patients, mitral valve prolapse was observed in only 2/66 (3%) patients. 6/66 (9%) patients presented with non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) and 1/66 (2%) patient presented with sustainend VT prior to catheter ablation. 61/66 (92%) patients underwent ablation of PVCs of the left ventricular papillary muscles (22/66 (33%) patients anterolateral; 39 (59%) patients posteromedial). 5/66 patients underwent ablation of premature ventricular complex (PVC) originating from the papillary muscles of the right ventricle. In 13/66 (19.7%) patients only a retrograde approach was used, in 26/66 (39.5%) patients a retrograde and an additional transeptal approach and in only 10/66 (15.2%) patients solely a transeptal approach. Mean PVC QRS duration was 152.5 ± 3.5 msec. Ablation was acutely successful in 44/66 (67%) patients. Mean procedure time was 145.8 ± 63.7 minutes and mean number of radiofrequency applications was 21.3 ± 16.7 (25 to 55 Watts, 37764.2 ± 27824.1 Joules). Overall, procedural complications occurred in 4/66 (6%) patients Follow up data were obtained from Holter ECGs, review of medical records, patient consultation, or via structured follow-up within the prospective TRUST registry. All information was combined to assess recurrence of PVC/VT. Recurrence of VA originating from the papillary muscles occurred in 11/66 (17%) patients. 9/66 patients (14%) underwent re-ablation due to recurrence of VA originating from the papillary muscles after previous ablation procedures. Conclusion Catheter ablation of papillary muscle arrhythmias is associated with a single procedural success rate of 67% with a procedural complication rate of 6%. 14% of patients underwent re-ablation due to recurrence of papillary muscle arrhythmias.

Pulsed-field vs. cryo-balloon based pulmonary vein isolation: does reduced autonomic modulation effect freedom of atrial fibrillation?

Abstract Background Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is a new energy source integrated into single-shot devices enabling pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. It has been demonstrated that PFA is noninferior to conventional thermal ablation. Conceptually, PFA preferentially damages cardiomyocytes and our prior data show that PFA causes less damage to neuronal tissue and reduced autonomic dysfunction than CBA. Here, we analyzed heart rate variability (HRV) as an additional parameter of intracardiac nervous system and whether the damage to neuronal tissue quantified by biomarker release and functional parameters might influence the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation in PFA and CBA treated patients. Methods We prospectively included consecutive patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing index PVI applying PFA (n=65) or CBA (n=112). We quantified the ablation-dependent effect on intracardiac autonomic nervous system by comparing resting heart rate (HR), HRV and circulating concentrations of the neuronal biomarker S100B. Recurrent AF was detected using Holter ECGs, wearables and telephone interviews. Results Baseline characteristics did not differ between PFA and CBA (age 66 vs. 68 years, female 33% vs. 39%, CHADS-VASc Score 2.1 vs. 2.2, indexed LA volume 32 vs. 31 ml/m², BMI 27.3 vs. 27.4 kg/m²). After CBA-based PVI, HR increased (pre 63 vs. post 70 bpm, p&amp;lt;0.001) and HRV decreased (SDNN pre 54 vs. post 26 ms, p=0.007). After PFA-based PVI, HR and HRV remained stable (HR pre 63 vs. 64 bpm, p=0.591; HRV SDNN pre 37 vs. post 36 ms, p=0.890). In a direct comparison, the HR-increase and HRV-decrease observed after CBA-based PVI was significant compared to PFA (0.8 vs. 7.3 bpm, p&amp;lt;0.001 and SDNN -1 vs. 29 ms, p=0.003). We reported previously that PFA induced less S100B release (28 ng/dl) than CBA (68 ng/dl, p&amp;lt;0.001) and that PV reconnection rates in ReDo procedure were similar between PFA (40%) and CBA (40%). 1 year follow-up revealed freedom of AF in 79% after PFA and 73% after CBA (p=0.230). Dividing patients in upper and lower half of HR increase and S100B release after PVI, patients showed no difference in recurrence rates after CBA. Conclusion These data suggest that neurocardiac damage near the pulmonary veins seems not to contribute to freedom of AF recurrences after PVI.

Potential determinants of nocturnal hypoxemic burden and its association with atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation

Abstract Background Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is present in approximately half of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) scheduled for catheter ablation (CA) and coincides with an elevated nocturnal hypoxemia. Purpose To evaluate determinants of nocturnal hypoxemic burden metrics and its association with AF recurrence after CA in patients undergoing a systematic SDB management and treatment pathway. Methods Consecutive AF patients scheduled for CA without history of SDB and/or SDB screening were included. Patients were referred to a virtual SDB management pathway including mobile health supported overnight home sleep test. An apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) of 5 to &amp;lt;15 and ≥ 15 were interpreted as mild and moderate-to-severe SDB, respectively. Oximetry data from home sleep tests were analyzed by a computer algorithm to evaluate metrics of nocturnal hypoxemic burden: time spent below 90% oxygen desaturation (T90) based on acute desaturations (T90 desat) or non-specific drifts in oxygen desaturation (T90 non-spec). Patients were monitored for AF recurrences through standard 12-lead ECG or Holter ECG and/or smartphone-based photophletysmography (PPG) performed at 3- and 12-month follow up. Multiple regression analysis was employed to (1) evaluate determinants of nocturnal hypoxemic burden metrics and (2) identify predictors of AF recurrence during 12 months after CA (excluding 3 months blanking period). Results The analysis included 210 patients (42% female, mean age 64± 9 years). Median AHI was 14.7 [6.7-24.7], median T90desat was 0.25 [0.03-1.42] minutes, T90non-spec 0.26 [0.08-0.78] minutes. Overall, 101 (48%) patients were diagnosed with moderate-to-severe SDB and 68 (32%) had mild SDB. Of patients with moderate-to- severe SDB and mild SDB, 87% and 46%, respectively, received a SDB therapy recommendation. Multiple linear regression analysis identified diabetes mellitus (B 8.611 95%CI 1.350-15.871, p=0.020) and AHI ≥ 15 (B 5.886, 95%CI 1.793-9.979, p= 0.005) as predictors of T90non-spec. Thyroid dysfunction (B 1.849, 95%CI 0.623-3.075, p=0.003) and AHI ≥ 15 (B 2.161, 95%CI 1.320-3.001, p&amp;lt;0.001) were significant predictors of T90desat. During 12 months after CA, 65 (31%) patients had experienced at least one AF recurrence after the blanking period. After multiple Cox-regression, age (HR 1.032, 95%CI 1.002-1.063, p= 0.035) and BMI ≥ 25 (HR 2.029, 95%CI 1.032-3.989, p=0.040) remained predictors for AF recurrences. Conclusions In AF patients scheduled for CA, SDB (AHI ≥ 15) and thyroid dysfunction were predictors for nocturnal hypoxemic burden with repetitive desaturations (T90desat). SDB and diabetes mellitus were predictors for nocturnal hypoxemic burden without repetitive desaturations (T90non-spec). In patients with AF who followed a virtual SDB management and treatment pathway, SDB presence and nocturnal hypoxemic burden metrics did not emerge as predictors, whereas age and BMI (≥25) remained significant predictors for AF recurrence.

Heart rate dynamics after pulmonary vein isolation: pulsed-field vs. radiofrequency ablation

Abstract Background The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a pivotal role in the onset and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). During thermal ablation, the epicardial ganglionated plexi (GP) can inadvertently be affected, as indicated by a post-ablation increase in heart rate (HR), potentially impacting post-procedural outcomes. Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) offers a safer and potentially more effective alternative, as lesion transmurality is not inversely related to safety as in thermal ablation. However, PFA's tissue selectivity may limit its effectiveness in ablating potential AF triggers like GP. Purpose We aimed to assess the impact of PF and RF energy on GP ablation by examining HR changes following PVI procedures. Methods We examined consecutive paroxysmal AF patients undergoing PVI at a single center, using either a variable-loop circular PFA catheter, as part of the inspIRE trial, or a conventional point-by-point RF catheter (1:2 ratio). ECGs were collected before and after ablation at multiple time points, including 1-hour, 1-day, 1-month, and 3-month intervals, with a 24-hour Holter ECG at 3 months. Patients without obtainable sinus rhythm ECGs at these time points were excluded. We also gathered data on post-ablation antiarrhythmic drug and beta-blocker usage. Data are reported as mean±SD, and analysis employed Student’s t-tests, paired t-tests, chi-squared tests, and multiple linear regression analysis to identify influencing factors. Results A total of 105 patients were included (PF = 35, RF = 70). Baseline demographics were similar (Table A). In the RF group, HR significantly increased at all measured time-points. In contrast, this trend was not observed in the PF group (Figure A and B). Following the procedure, the RF cohort exhibited a significantly higher HR compared to PF (7.3±10.3 vs. 0.8±11 at 1-day, p=0.018), and this difference persisted after 3 months (8.5±10.1 vs. 0.9±9, p&amp;lt;0.001, Figure C). These findings remained consistent when HR was assessed using Holter ECG data (HR at 3 months: mean 72.1±8.8 vs 65.8±9.4, min 55.2 vs 48.9; p=0.002, p=0.001, Figure D). The use of RF energy was the only predictor of HR increase after the ablation procedure (β = 7.687, p &amp;lt; 0.001, Table B). Conclusion Our findings indicates that PFA does not increase resting HR as seen with thermal RF ablation, suggesting limited effect on ANS modulation. The role of adjunctive GP ablation during PVI procedures remains a topic of debate.While PFA shows promising improvement in lesion durability, current evidence does not conclusively establish its advantage over RF. This invites contemplation about whether the addition of GP ablation in RF procedures could be a contributing factor. The absence of HR acceleration may pose issues for patients with sick sinus syndrome or pure vagally mediated AF. Further research is essential to confirm these findings and their clinical implications.Central illustrationTables

Radiofrequency balloon ablation: 1-year outcomes of the AURORA registry

Abstract Background and Objectives A novel irrigated radiofrequency balloon (RFB) for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) integrated into 3D mapping system was recently launched. Methods Patients ablated for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) or persistent atrial fibrillation (persAF) at two German high-volume electrophysiology centers were included into the prospective AURORA registry. All patients underwent clinical follow-up (FU) at 90, 180 and 360 days following ablation including 24h Holter ECGs. Results A total of 101 patients were enrolled (50 from centre A, 51 from centre B) and 86 patients (48% male, 65 ± 11 years, 55% PAF, 59 ± 7% left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)) completed the follow-up. Mean ablation and procedure times were 26 ± 13 min and 71 ± 20 min, respectively. Dose area product was 1501 ± 1634 mGycm2. Acute PVI was achieved in 100%. Atrial fibrillation (AF) free survival after a mean FU of 361 (219-375) days was 78.4% for PAF and 75.4% for persAF. (p= 0.828). A multiple regression analysis did not reveal any clinical or procedural predictors of AF recurrence among sex, age, BMI, left atrial diameter, LVEF, ablation time, procedure time and single shot PVI. However, early recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmia (ERAT) was an independent predictor for AF recurrence at 1-year (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 3.198; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.036 - 10.32, p value = 0.0433). Primary adverse events occurred in 3.5% of patients (1 postprocedural pharyngeal bleeding, 1 myocardial infarction, 1 non-cardiovascular death); no pericardial effusion, stroke or phrenic nerve paralysis were observed. Conclusions RFB-based PVI is clinically effective and safe. ERAT at the first follow-up visit is an independent predictor of late AF recurrence.

ECG screening and prevention of sudden cardiac death in endurance athletes over 40

Abstract Introduction CV diseases increase with age. There are many athletes aged &amp;gt;40 years who practise in certain endurance sports (marathon, ultramarathon and cycling), that involve very high intensity physical exertion and prolonged efforts. This population, like others athletes, undergo to annual examination with a medical history, spirometry, urine test and exercise test. CVdisease and sudden cardiac death (SCD) are the main cause of mortality in athletes during sport and this specific population group are at increased CV risk due to their multiple comorbidities, so this kind of screening remains controversial. Aims The primary aim of the study is to evaluate whether a 5-minute 'mini Holter ECG', associated with the conventional examination, can have an additional role for early screening and prevention of CV diseases in older endurance sport population. Materials The population were selected as part of the larger 'Heart And Run' project, an ECG collection of endurance athletes of the main sports clubs in Rome - Italy. A control group of healty individiuals was collected for comparison. The ECG traces were recorded at rest for 5 minutes with the Kardia Mobile device 6L™. HRV indices were analysed using the software Kubios. The study group were compared for an ECG morphological analysis and HRV parameters in the time and frequency domain. Results A total of 353 subjects (182 athletes, 171 controls) were analysed. The athlets show a significantly higher incidence of sinus arrhythmias, LAFB, 1°degree AVB, Jpoint elevation and STsegment abnormalities. We found also a significantly shorter QTc in athlets compared to controls (395.95 ± 29.51 ms vs. 411.6 ± 29.01 ms), suggestive of greater protection from malignant ventricular arrhythmias. In line with the ECG findings, the HRV PNS (-0.25 ± 1.25 vs -1.05 ± 1.45) and SNS (0.69 ± 1.44 vs 2.38 ± 1.89) indices were respectively higher and lower in the athletes group than in the controls group. Differences between the two groups were also found in the time and frequency HRV domain analysis (SDNN, RMSSD, NN50 and pNN50). Due to the absence of normality range, we considered values lower of the 5th or higher of the 95th percentile range, for the main HRV parameters, as abnormals. We identified 29/182 virtually abnormal HRV individuals. Those patients could be at increased CV risk, worthy of further investigation. In total, out-of-range HRV values or morphological abnormalities were detected in 54 athletes (29%), a population that will need further attention through follow-up and additional examinations. Conclusions Despite competitive endurance sports are associated with increased vagal tone, which is virtually protective against CV diseases, even in athletes over 40, the addition of the 5-minute cardiac 'mini Holter' could increase the sensitivity in detection of CV disease, in a specific high-risk group of athletes, suggesting additional clinical and instrumental investigations in such patients.