Initial Ejection Fraction Research Articles

Clinical predictors of late left ventricle recovery in tako-tsubo syndrome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Tako-Tsubo syndrome (TTS) or stress cardiomyopathy is characterized by transient dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) and a clinical presentation that can mimic an acute coronary syndrome. Recovery from contraction abnormalities may occur hours to weeks after the acute event. Although traditionally considered a disease with a favorable prognosis, it has been observed to have a complication rate during hospitalization similar to acute myocardial infarction and a significant mortality rate during follow-up (greater than 5% per patient-year). The recovery time of LV function has demonstrated important prognostic value. Purpose The aim of this work was to determine the clinical predictors of late left ventricular recovery in TTS. Methods Data from the multicenter national registry on Takotsubo Syndrome (RETAKO) were utilized. Clinical, laboratory, echocardiographic, and other imaging test characteristics, as well as events during hospitalization and follow-up, were collected. Recovery within the first days after the acute event was considered early recovery. Patients who died within the first 10 days after the acute event were excluded. Results A total of 1,463 patients were analyzed, of whom 373 (25.5%) had late recovery. The mean age was 71 years, and 86.6% were women. In the late recovery group, factors more common were age over 75 years, male gender, neurological disease, lung disease, peripheral arterial disease, active cancer, physical trigger, initial presentation as dyspnea or syncope, presence of shock, greater left ventricular dysfunction at diagnosis, and higher levels of proBNP. In multivariate analysis, the presence of neurological disease, active cancer, shock during hospitalization, lower initial LV ejection fraction, and physical trigger were associated with late recovery. Conclusions Patients with TTS showing late recovery of LV function have different clinical characteristics and disease presentation compared to those with early recovery. Late recovery was associated with the presence of neurological disease or active cancer, shock during hospitalization, lower initial LV ejection fraction, and physical trigger.

External validation of the CREST model to predict early circulatory-etiology death after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without initial ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

BackgroundThe CREST model is a prediction model, quantitating the risk of circulatory-etiology death (CED) after cardiac arrest based on variables available at hospital admission, and intend to guide the triage of comatose patients without ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This study assessed performance of the CREST model in the Target Temperature Management (TTM) trial cohort.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed data from resuscitated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients in the TTM-trial. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and CREST variables (history of coronary artery disease, initial heart rhythm, initial ejection fraction, shock at admission and ischemic time > 25 min) were assessed in univariate and multivariable analysis. The primary outcome was CED. The discriminatory power of the logistic regression model was assessed using the C-statistic and goodness of fit was tested according to Hosmer-Lemeshow.ResultsAmong 329 patients eligible for final analysis, 71 (22%) had CED. History of ischemic heart disease, previous arrhythmia, older age, initial non-shockable rhythm, shock at admission, ischemic time > 25 min and severe left ventricular dysfunction were variables associated with CED in univariate analysis. CREST variables were entered into a logistic regression model and the area under the curve for the model was 0.73 with adequate calibration according to Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p = 0.602).ConclusionsThe CREST model had good validity and a discrimination capability for predicting circulatory-etiology death after resuscitation from cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Application of this model could help to triage high-risk patients for transfer to specialized cardiac centers.

Diagnosis and Management of Takotsubo Syndrome in Acute Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Comprehensive Review.

Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is a frequent complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), especially in massive SAH with severe neurological damage. The initial presentation of TS is similar to acute coronary syndrome, causing differential diagnostic issues. Unnecessary diagnostic steps and uncertainty in therapy may delay the definitive treatment of the aneurysm, therefore increasing the risk of rebleeding. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest knowledge on the diagnosis and therapy of TS in SAH and to provide a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for the acute phase, promoting the early definitive treatment of the aneurysm. Rapid hemodynamic stabilization and early aneurysm securing are key points in reducing the risk of delayed cerebral ischemia and improving outcomes. In acute SAH noninvasive bedside diagnostic methods are preferred and securing the aneurysm is the priority. The combination of electrocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and echocardiography is of great importance in differentiating TS from acute myocardial infarction. The risk-benefit ratio of coronary angiography should be carefully and individually considered and its use should be limited to patients with strong evidence of myocardial ischemia, after the successful endovascular treatment of the aneurysm. Invasive hemodynamic monitoring may be beneficial in cases of cardiogenic shock or pulmonary edema. In patients with hemodynamical instability secondary to TS, the use of non-catecholamine inotropes, especially levosimendan is recommended. In refractory hypotension, mechanical support should be considered. The left ventricular function improves within days to months after the acute event, low initial ejection fraction may predispose to delayed recovery.

Incidence, Predictive Factors and Long-Term Clinical Impact of Left Ventricular Remodeling According to the Completeness of Revascularization in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Multivessel Disease.

In this study, we identified several factors related to left ventricular remodeling (LVR) and examined the impact of LVR on the prognosis of patients with ST-elevated myocardial infarction and multivessel disease treated with complete (CR) or incomplete (IR) revascularization. LVR was defined as an LV end-diastolic diameter >55 mm. A total of 262 patients without LVR at presentation were followed up with echocardiography between 1 month and 1 year. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause death (AD), MI, and heart failure (HF), referred to as a major adverse cardiovascular endpoint (MACE). Then, each variable was analyzed as a secondary outcome. Follow-up echocardiography identified 26 patients (9.9%) with LVR. LVR was associated with an initial LV ejection fraction <50%, Killip 3 disease at presentation, and a peak troponin I level >70 mg/dL. Survival analysis showed an association between LVR and adverse outcomes only in the IR group, in which the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was increased for the MACE (HR = 3.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.19-8.71, p = 0.002) and HF (HR = 21.37, 95% CI = 4.47-102.09, p< 0.001), but not for the CR group. In STEMI with MVD, LVR within the first year after percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with worse outcomes in the IR but not the CR group.

One-Year Follow-Up of Patients Admitted for Emergency Coronary Angiography after Resuscitated Cardiac Arrest.

(1) Background: Despite the improvement of the in-hospital survival rate after aborted sudden cardiac death (SCD), cerebral anoxia may have severe neurologic consequences and may impair long-term outcome and quality of life of surviving patients. The aim of this study was to assess neurological outcomes at one year after resuscitated cardiac arrest; (2) Methods: This prospective, observational, and multicentre study included patients >18 yo admitted in the catheterisation laboratory for coronary angiography after aborted SCD between 1 May 2018 and 31 May 2020. Only patients who were discharged alive from hospital were evaluated. The primary endpoint was survival without neurological sequelae at one-year follow-up defined by a cerebral performance category (CPC) of one or two. Secondary end points included all-cause mortality, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, neurologic evaluation at discharge, three-month and one-year follow-up using the CPC scale, and quality of life at 1 year using the Quality of Life after Brain Injury (QOLIBRI) questionnaire; (3) Results: Among 143 patients admitted for SCD within the study period, 61 (42.7%) were discharged alive from hospital, among whom 55 (90.1%) completed the one-year follow-up. No flow and low flow times were 1.9 ± 2.4 min and 16.5 ± 10.4 min, respectively. For 93.4% of the surviving patients, an initial shockable rhythm (n = 57) was observed and acute coronary syndrome was diagnosed in 75.4% of them (n = 46). At 1 year, survival rate without neurologic sequelae was 87.2% (n = 48). Patients with poor outcome were older (69.3 vs. 57.4 yo; p = 0.04) and had lower body mass index (22.4 vs. 26.7; p = 0.013) and a lower initial Left Ventricle Ejection Fraction (LVEF) (32.1% vs. 40.3%; p = 0.046). During follow-up, neurological status improved in 36.8% of patients presenting sequelae at discharge, and overall quality of life was satisfying for 66.7% of patients according to the QOLIBRI questionnaire; (4) Conclusions: Among patients admitted to the catheterisation laboratory for aborted SCD, mainly related to Acute Coronary Syndrom (ACS), less than a half of them were alive at discharge. However, the one-year survival rate without neurological sequelae was high and overall quality of life was good.

Heart failure ejection fraction class conversions: impact of biomarkers, co‐morbidities, and pharmacotherapy

AimsTemporal conversions among ejection fraction (EF) classes can occur across the heart failure (HF) spectrum reflecting amended structural and functional outcomes unaccounted for by current taxonomy. This retrospective study aims to investigate the differences in serum laboratory values, guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT), and co‐morbidity burden across EF conversion groups.Methods and resultsHeart failure patients at least 18‐year‐old who obtained at least two echocardiograms between January 2018 and January 2020 were identified using ICD‐10 codes. Analysis of variance, chi‐square tests, and analysis of means for proportions were used as appropriate to identify associations with class conversion groups. A total of 874 patients who underwent 1748 echocardiograms on unique visits were categorized according to initial EF as HF with preserved EF (HFpEF) (n = 531, 61%), HF with mildly reduced or midrange EF (HFmrEF) (n = 132, 15%), or HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) (n = 211, 24%). In accordance with follow‐up EF, class conversions were categorized into HF with improved EF (HFiEF) (n = 143, 16%), HF with worsened EF (HFwEF) (n = 171, 20%), or HF with stable EF (HFsEF) (n = 560, 64%). The average age was 75 ± 13 years old; 54% were male, 85% were Caucasian, 11% were African American, and 4% other. The mean time between EF assessments was 208.6 ± 170.2 days. Serum sodium levels were greater in HFwEF (139 ± 3 mmol/L) when compared with HFsEF (138 ± 4 mmol/L) (P = 0.05). Pro‐BNP levels were higher in HFiEF (12 150 ± 19 554 pg/mL) versus HFsEF (6671 ± 10 525 pg/mL) (P = 0.007). Angiotensin receptor‐neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) were more frequently ordered on index visit in HFiEF (P = 0.03), but no other significant differences in GDMT were identified. Despite similar Elixhauser Co‐morbidity Measure (ECM) scores, ECM categorical analysis revealed that HFwEF was more likely to have an established diagnosis of depression (P = 0.03) and a spectrum of psychiatric illnesses (P = 0.03) on preliminary visit. HFsEF was less likely to have an established diagnosis of blood loss anaemia (P = 0.04). Metastatic cancer was more likely to have been diagnosed in HFiEF and less likely in HFsEF (P = 0.002).ConclusionsDespite similar ECM scores, EF class conversion groups demonstrated salient differences in average serum sodium and pro‐BNP levels. Inpatient ARNI orders, psychiatric, hematologic, and oncologic co‐morbidity patterns were also significantly different. Findings demonstrate blood‐based biomarker patterns and targetable co‐morbid conditions which may play a role in future EF class conversion. Dedicated studies evaluating measurements related to GDMT dose‐titration, quality of life, and functionality are the next steps in this field of HF.

Longitudinal Ejection Fraction Class Conversion In Heart Failure: Impact Of Biomarkers, Comorbidities, And Pharmacotherapy

<h3>Introduction</h3> Temporal conversions among ejection fraction (EF) classes can occur across the heart failure (HF) spectrum reflecting amended structural and functional outcomes unaccounted for by current taxonomy. This retrospective study aims to investigate the differences in laboratory biomarkers, guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), and comorbidity burden across EF conversion groups. <h3>Methods</h3> HF patients at least 18-year-old who obtained at least two echocardiograms between January 2018 and January 2020 were identified using ICD-10 codes. Analysis of variance, chi-square test, and analysis of means for proportions were used as appropriate to identify associations with class conversion groups. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 874 patients who underwent 1,748 echocardiograms on unique visits were categorized according to initial EF as HF with preserved EF (HFpEF) (n=531, 61%), HF with midrange EF (HFmrEF) (n=132, 15%), or HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) (n=211, 24%). In accordance with follow-up EF, class conversions were categorized into HF with improved EF (HFiEF) (n=143, 16%), HF with worsened EF (HFwEF) (n=171, 20%), or HF with stable EF (HFsEF) (n=560, 64%). The average age was 75±13 years old; 54% were male, 85% were Caucasian, 11% were African American, and 4% other. Mean time between EF assessments was 208.6±170.2 days. Biomarker analysis demonstrated significantly higher average baseline Pro-BNP levels (12,150 pg/mL) in HFiEF versus HFsEF (6,671 pg/mL) (p=0.01). Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) orders on index visit were more likely to be seen in the HFiEF group, but no other significant differences in GDMT were identified. Despite similar Elixhauser Comorbidity Measure (ECM) scores, ECM categorical analysis revealed that HFwEF was more likely to have an established diagnosis of depression (p=0.04) and a spectrum of psychiatric illnesses inclusive of diagnosis codes such as schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder (p=0.04) on preliminary visit compared to HFsEF or HFiEF. HFsEF was less likely to have an established diagnosis of blood loss anemia versus HFiEF or HFwEF (n=874, p=0.04). <h3>Conclusions</h3> Salient differences in baseline Pro-BNP levels as well as psychiatric and hematologic comorbidity patterns were observed across the EF class conversion spectrum despite similar baseline comorbidity burden, GDMT, and laboratory data. Findings demonstrate biomarker patterns associated with future EF improvement and targetable comorbid conditions which likely play a role in EF class conversion. Dedicated study evaluating measurements related to quality of life, functionality, hospital readmissions, and mortality are next steps in this field of HF.

A New Scoring Model to Diagnose COVID-19 Using Lung Ultrasound in the Emergency Department

BackgroundSeveral studies have reported the predictors of the prognosis in COVID-19 patients; however, smoking, X-ray findings of pulmonary congestion, and A-profile and areas of consolidation in LUS are independent predictors for COVID-19 infection. The new score had a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 58% for the prediction of COVID-19. Mortality in COVID-19 patients is significantly correlated with age, fever duration, cardiac history, and B-profile and areas of consolidation in LUS. However, it is negatively correlated with initial O2 saturation and ejection fraction. This study aimed to design a new scoring model to diagnose COVID-19 using bedside lung ultrasound (LUS) in the emergency department (ED).ResultsEighty-two patients were recruited. Fifty patients (61%) were negative for COVID-19, and 32 (39%) were positive. Sixty-four patients (78%) recovered while 18 patients (22%) died. COVID-19 patients had more AB-profile and more areas of consolidation than the non-COVID-19 group (p<0.001). Smoking, congestion in X-ray, A-profile, and abnormal A line in LUS are independent predictors for COVID-19 infection. The score had a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 58% for the prediction of COVID-19. Mortality in COVID-19 patients is significantly correlated with age, fever duration, cardiac history, and B-profile and areas of consolidation in LUS. However, it is negatively correlated with initial O2 saturation and ejection fraction.ConclusionsIn conclusion, the application of our new score can stratify patients presented to ED with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia, considering that it is a good negative test. Moreover, this score may have a good impact on the safety of medical personnel.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05077202. Registered October 14, 2021 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05077202

Abstract 13309: Differences in Clinical Characteristics and Hospitalizations Between Midrange, Reduced and Preserved Heart Failure

Introduction: Distinct pathophysiologic differences exist among heart failure (HF) patients depending on baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and degree of LVEF recovery to medical therapy; however, differences in clinical outcomes among these patients remain unclear. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that patients with HF and mid-range EF (HFmrEF) would have lower all cause and HF hospitalizations compared to HFpEF and HFrEF patients. Methods: We identified 9,428 patients between 2009-2018 with ICD diagnosis of HF with a baseline and 1-year follow-up echocardiogram. We created 9 subgroups based on initial and follow-up ejection fraction (LVEF defined as preserved &gt;50%; midrange 40-50% and reduced &lt;40%). All-cause and HF hospitalizations crude incidence rates and length of stay were calculated as per patient follow-up year. Results: A total of 424 HFmrEF patients who maintained mid-range ejection fraction at follow-up were included in our analysis. HFmrEF patients were less likely to have pulmonary hypertension and more likely to have ischemic cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia compared to HFrEF and HFpEF (P &lt;0.001). There were 47832 total and 18594 HF hospitalizations with a mean follow-up time of 3.89 years. Patients with HFmrEF who stay mid-range had the lowest number of total (0.97 per follow-up year, P&lt;0.001) and HF hospitalizations (0.43, P&lt;0.001) when compared to all other groups. HFmrEF who stay mid-range also had the lowest length of stay during both total and HF hospitalizations (2.85 and 1.91, P&lt;0.001). Conclusions: Patients who have mid-range ejection fraction at diagnosis and at follow-up had lower all cause and HF hospitalizations and shorter length of stay when compared to HFrEF, recovered EF, and HFpEF patients. Further research is needed to determine the proper management of this group.

Rate of Recovery of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in a Real-World Population of Patients Receiving a Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator

Background: This study aimed to investigate the rate of early improvement in ejection fraction (EF) within 21 - 60 days among patients with cardiomyopathy who were provided with a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients who received a WCD at our institution to determine the rate of improvement in left ventricular EF (LVEF) to ? 35-40%. Among 990 patients who received a WCD during the study period, 101 had an echocardiogram performed during the subsequent 21 - 60 days. Patients were stratified according to their initial EF, as well as age, gender, number of heart failure medications, and ischemic vs. nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the influence of these variables on the subsequent improvement in EF. Results: There were 39 patients who had improvement in their EF to ? 35-40%. The only significant predictor of EF recovery was the initial EF. There was a direct correlation between initial EF category and the likelihood of improvement in EF. For every unit increase in initial EF category, the odds of improvement increased 1.73 times (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22 - 2.45). Age (P = 0.20), gender (P = 0.10), ischemic cardiomyopathy (P = 0.40), and number of heart failure medications at the time of WCD placement (P = 0.26) were not significant predictors of improved LVEF. Conclusions: This study showed a rate of improvement in EF to ? 35-40% of 39% within 21 - 60 days of placement of a WCD among patients with both ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy. The only significant clinical predictor of EF improvement was initial EF. Cardiol Res. 2021;000(000):000-000 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/cr1325

Rate of Recovery of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in a Real-World Population of Patients Receiving a Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator.

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the rate of early improvement in ejection fraction (EF) within 21 - 60 days among patients with cardiomyopathy who were provided with a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD).MethodsThis was a retrospective study of patients who received a WCD at our institution to determine the rate of improvement in left ventricular EF (LVEF) to ≥ 35-40%. Among 990 patients who received a WCD during the study period, 101 had an echocardiogram performed during the subsequent 21 - 60 days. Patients were stratified according to their initial EF, as well as age, gender, number of heart failure medications, and ischemic vs. nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the influence of these variables on the subsequent improvement in EF.ResultsThere were 39 patients who had improvement in their EF to ≥ 35-40%. The only significant predictor of EF recovery was the initial EF. There was a direct correlation between initial EF category and the likelihood of improvement in EF. For every unit increase in initial EF category, the odds of improvement increased 1.73 times (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22 - 2.45). Age (P = 0.20), gender (P = 0.10), ischemic cardiomyopathy (P = 0.40), and number of heart failure medications at the time of WCD placement (P = 0.26) were not significant predictors of improved LVEF.ConclusionsThis study showed a rate of improvement in EF to ≥ 35-40% of 39% within 21 - 60 days of placement of a WCD among patients with both ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy. The only significant clinical predictor of EF improvement was initial EF.

Left Ventricular Ballooning Patterns in Recurrent Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Reported Cases.

Recurrent takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) and the clinical profiles and outcomes of patients have not been fully evaluated, nor has the effect of left ventricular ballooning pattern. After searching the medical literature for reports of patients with recurrent TTC, we identified 84 articles with 101 case descriptions. We divided the cases into those with only apical left ventricular ballooning patterns at recurrence (typical, n=60), and those with at least one midventricular or basal ballooning pattern (atypical, n=41). We then compared their clinical profiles and outcomes. The groups were similar in terms of baseline demographic characteristics, presence and types of triggers, use of heart failure medications at TTC recurrence, electrocardiographic changes at presentation, initial left ventricular ejection fractions, timespans between recurrent TTC episodes, and recovery times after each event. However, patients in the atypical group had significantly fewer severe adverse events (cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest) than did those in the typical group, with an estimated 63% lower odds (adjusted odds ratio=0.37; 95% CI, 0.14-0.97; P=0.039). Survival to hospital discharge was statistically similar but lower in the typical group (n=53; 88.3%) than in the atypical group (n=24; 96%). Our results suggest that left ventricular ballooning patterns influence clinical outcomes, and that outcomes are more favorable in patients with recurrent TTC who have atypical left ventricular ballooning patterns.

The pacemaker ventricular lead position and outcomes in patients upgrading to crt

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Adverse hemodynamic effects of right ventricular pacing are known, and the optimal right ventricular lead position is still being a matter of debate. According to the guidelines, upgrade to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is recommended in patients with indication for pacemaker and left ventricular ejection fraction less than 50% or who need more than 40% of ventricular pacing. Purpose To compare clinical outcomes and ejection fraction in patients with previous pacemaker (apical versus septal right ventricular pacing) who are upgrated to CRT. Methods Single-center retrospective study of 94 consecutive patients who had previous pacemaker and upgraded to CRT over a 4-year period. Of these patients, 64 had previous apical lead pacemaker and 30 had previous septal lead pacemaker. Data on comorbidities, New York Heart Association (NYHA), left ventricular ejection fraction and hospitalizations due to heart failure were collected. The results were obtained using Chi-square, Mann-Whitney and t-test. Results Patients with septal pacemaker had significantly more diabetes (p = 0.04) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (p = 0.01), tended to be more symptomatic (p = 0.198) and had more days of hospitalization before and after pacemaker implantation (12 ± 3 versus 7 ± 2 days and 8 ± 4 versus 3 ± 1 days, respectively), mostly due heart failure decompensation. Although there were no significant differences in the initial ejection fraction in patients with apical or septal pacemaker implantation (31.2 ± 1.2% and 29.1 ± 1.5%, respectively, p = 0.323), the time to upgrade to CRT was significantly shorter in patients with septal pacemaker implantation (1999 ± 227 days versus 3005 ± 279 days, p = 0.005). After upgrading to CRT, patients with apical lead had a significant increase in ejection fraction (8.2%, p = 0.011), while patients with septal lead had a non-significant improvement of ejection fraction (4.5%, p = 0.448). In both, apical and septal lead patients, there was a significant improvement in NYHA class after upgrade to CRT (p = 0.03 and p = 0.02, respectively). Conclusion Although patients with septal lead had more comorbidities and hospitalizations due to heart failure, they do not benefit from the upgrade to CRT, unlike what happens in patients with apical lead. These findings can be explained by the fact that the septal lead minimizes ventricular desynchrony induced by right ventricular pacing.

Are HFpEF and HFmrEF So Different? The Need to Understand Distinct Phenotypes.

Traditionally, patients with heart failure (HF) are divided according to ejection fraction (EF) threshold more or <50%. In 2016, the ESC guidelines introduced a new subgroup of HF patients including those subjects with EF ranging between 40 and 49% called heart failure with midrange EF (HFmrEF). This group is poorly represented in clinical trials, and it includes both patients with previous HFrEF having a good response to therapy and subjects with initial preserved EF appearance in which systolic function has been impaired. The categorization according to EF has recently been questioned because this variable is not really a representative of the myocardial contractile function and it could vary in relation to different hemodynamic conditions. Therefore, EF could significantly change over a short-term period and its measurement depends on the scan time course. Finally, although EF is widely recognized and measured worldwide, it has significant interobserver variability even in the most accredited echo laboratories. These assumptions imply that the same patient evaluated in different periods or by different physicians could be classified as HFmrEF or HFpEF. Thus, the two HF subtypes probably subtend different responses to the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Similarly, the adaptation to hemodynamic stimuli and to metabolic alterations could be different for different HF stages and periods. In this review, we analyze similarities and dissimilarities and we hypothesize that clinical and morphological characteristics of the two syndromes are not so discordant.

Impact of a cardiovascular rehabilitation program on frailty indicators in elderly patients with heart disease

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Hospital Cardio Pulmonar INTRODUCTION Frailty has been considered an important predictor of morbidity and mortality in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CVR) has a direct and unequivocal effect on improving functional capacity in patients with heart disease, however, the effect of CVR on frailty indicators has not yet been well established. PURPOSE: To evaluate the association of the CVR program with frailty indicators in elderly patients with heart disease referred to a cardiovascular rehabilitation program and to identify possible predictors of improvement in frailty in this population. METHODS: Retrospective cohort with patients over 65 years old referred to an CVR program in Salvador-BA, Brazil from August / 2017 to March / 2020. Frailty was assessed using the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) at baseline and at least 3 months after the start of the program. Student"s t and Chi-square tests were used to compare continuous and categorical variables, respectively, logistic regression to analyze independent predictors of improvement in frailty and p &amp;lt;0.05 adopted as statistically significant. RESULTS: 51 patients were included, with a mean age of 75 ± 6 years, 65% men, 39 (77%) with coronary artery disease, 23 (50%) with heart failure, 21 (41%) with diabetes, 34 (67%) with hypertension and 41 (80%) dyslipidemia. According to the American Heart Association (AHA) risk stratification for exercise, 21 (49%) were risk B and 22 (51%) risk C. Regarding functional capacity, 12 (31%) were class I, 21 (41%) class II, 5 (13%) class III and 1 (3%) class IV according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA). The average initial ejection fraction was 53 ± 16%. The mean time between the two assessments was 5 ± 2 months and the improvement observed in maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) was from 15 ± 4 to 16 ± 4 mL.Kg-1.min-1 (p = 0.001). Regarding frailty, there was an improvement from 5.4 ± 2.0 to 4.8 ± 1.9 in the average of the EFS score (p = 0.034), with 25 patients (49%) being considered responders. This group was predominantly formed by men, non-diabetics, using statins, at risk B (AHA) and with a higher score on the quality of life score and on the EFS. However, in the multivariate analysis, only the highest score on the EFS (OR 1.8 CI 95% 1.06-3.3; p &amp;lt;0.05) and the lowest risk on the AHA scale (OR 0.18 CI 95% 0.03-0.97; p &amp;lt;0.05) remained as independent predictors of response. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant improvement in the frailty of elderly patients referred for CVR, the higher the baseline frailty score, the greater the chance of response.

The impact of complete atrioventricular block on in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background/aim: Complete atrioventricular (AV) block is associated with worse in-hospital outcome in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), while whether it has an impact on long-term outcome is uncertain. The majority of previous studies that analyzed this issue are performed before introduction primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence and the prognostic impact of complete AV block at admission on in-hospital and 6-year mortality in STEMI patients treated with pPCI. Method we analyzed 2863 consecutive STEMI patients without cardiogenic shock at admission. Clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic characteristics and prognosis were compared between patients with and without complete AV block at admission. Results Complete AV block at admission was registered in 134 (4.6%) patients; 117 (87.3%) patients with complete AV block had inferior infarction. In comparison without complete AV block, patients with complete AV block were older; they were more likely to have heart failure, lower blood pressure and lower creatinine clearance at admission, multi-vessel disease on initial coronary angiogram and lower pre-discharge left ventricular ejection fraction (EF). Temporary pacemaker was implanted in 68 (50%) patients with complete AV block. No patient underwent permanent pacemaker implantation. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with complete AV block than in patients without complete AV block: 17.9% vs 3.6%, respectively, p &amp;lt; 0.001. In patients with heart block and inferior infarction in-hospital mortality was 13%, whereas in patients with heart block and anterior infarction in-hospital mortality was 53%. When we analyze patients who were discharged alive from the hospital, we also find significantly higher long-term (6-year) mortality rate in those with complete AV block at admission vs patients without AV block: 7.8% vs 3.4% respectively, p &amp;lt; 0.001 (Figure 1). The causes of death in patients with complete AV block during long-term follow up were cardiovascular, e.g. sudden death, reinfarction or worsening of heart failure. In Cox regression model complete AV block was an independent predictor for in-hospital and 6-year mortality: in-hospital mortality HR 2.54 85%CI 1.93-5.22, p = 0.011; six year mortality HR 1.61, 95CI 1,09-2.37, p = 0.017. Other independent predictors for both short- and long-term mortality were age, heart failure at admission, lower creatinine clearance at admission, EF and post-procedural flow TIMI &amp;lt;3 thorugh infarct-related artery. Conclusion Complete AV block at admission is an independent predictor for in-hospital and long-term mortality in STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. Abstract Figure 1

522 Perioperative Echocardiographic Assessment of Malnutrition-Related Cardiomyopathy: A Case Series

Abstract Introduction It is known that systolic dysfunction (dilated cardiomyopathy) may occur in a high percentage of patients with large TBSA burns. The reversible myocardial depression may be due to many factors: thermal injury, sepsis, severe malnutrition. Monitoring nutritional status is an integral part of improving post-burn cardiomyopathy. Perioperative echocardiography can be used to assess the degree of cardiac dysfunction and alter treatment in these patients. Methods Serial echocardiographic parameters were measured (ejection fraction, fractional shortening, pericardial fluid) in 4 patients with evidence of malnutrition (low BMI, low albumin and prealbumin, muscle wasting), delayed wound healing, and a late presentation to the hospital. Initial echocardiography was performed post-injury day 30 -142; follow-up exams were performed in some patients up to 2 years post-injury. Acutely injured or septic patients were excluded. Results Echocardiographic measurements were obtained in 4 patients, ages 7–21. The TBSA ranged from 33–95% and included flame injury and electrical burns. The initial ejection fraction ranged from 12–38% in patients with a BMI range of 10–16. The mean initial albumin was 1.65g/dL; the mean prealbumin was 10.8mg/dL. Selenium deficiency was noted in 1 patient. Dobutamine was required intraoperatively in several patients. Conclusions Patients presenting with malnutrition and impaired wound healing all had evidence of cardiomyopathy of varying degrees. However, the degree of systolic dysfunction varied significantly. Chronic surgical grafting was used to manage burn wounds, while slow nutritional rehabilitation normalized the patient’s BMI with careful avoidance of refeeding syndrome. As exemplified by serial echocardiography, one patient’s EF improved over 1 year from 12% to 50–55% as the nutritional status also improved, demonstrated by the normalization of his BMI. Despite the lower ejection fractions, many patients maintained an adequate cardiac index and required only short-term inotropic agents. Intraoperative and serial echocardiography allowed for continued monitoring and alteration of the heart failure medication regimens if required. With time and adequate nutrition, cardiac function improved, although many remained with mild dysfunction in the first year.

Compaired Sacubitril/Valsartan with Benalapril on the Left Ventricular Remordeling of Ami after PPCI: A case-control study

Background: To compare the effect of sacubitril/valsartan with benalapril on left ventricular remodeling in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Materials and Methods: 85 patients with acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction who were treated with PCI in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Medical University. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (sacubitril/valsartan, 25-100mg/d, BID) and the control group (benalapril, 5-10mg, QD). Color Doppler echocardiography was performed after 1 month and 3 months respectively, interventricular septal thickness, septal motion amplitude, left ventricular end diastolic diameter, left ventricular end systolic diameter, posterior wall thickness, posterior wall motion amplitude, LVEF, left ventricular weight, left ventricular weight index, NT Pro-BNP, gender, height, weight, body surface area were collected. In order to evaluate the influencing factors in the process of ventricular remodeling, binary multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out for the indicators with statistical differences in the conclusions of the above control study. Subgroup analysis was carried out and the samples were divided into four subgroups according to gender,age, initial ejection fraction . Resulst: one month after the treatment of sacubitril/valsartan or benalapril, only the left ventricular end systolic diameter was statistically different between the two groups (P &lt; 0.05), and the other indexes were not statistically different. Three months after treatment with sacubitril/valsartan or benalapril, there were statistical differences in the indexes related to myocardial remodeling between the two groups (P &lt; 0.05). The results of multivariate logistic analysis showed that the index of left ventricular end systolic diameter was statistically significant (or=0.006, 95% CI: 0.733-0.981). Acute myocardial infarction whose LVEF is less than 50%, show sacubitril/valsartan is better than traditional ACEI. Conclusion: sacubitril/valsartan Compared with benalapril is better on left ventricular remodeling in patients with ST segment elevation acute myocardial infarction.

Refining the 10-Year Prediction of Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Long-Term Survivors of Childhood Cancer

BackgroundIn childhood cancer survivors (CCS) at risk for heart failure, echocardiographic surveillance recommendations are currently based on anthracyclines and chest-directed radiotherapy dose. Whether the ejection fraction (EF) measured at an initial surveillance echocardiogram can refine these recommendations is unknown. ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to assess the added predictive value of EF at >5 years after cancer diagnosis to anthracyclines and chest-directed radiotherapy dose in CCS, for the development of left ventricular dysfunction with an ejection fraction <40% (LVD40). MethodsEchocardiographic surveillance was performed in 299 CCS from the Emma Children’s Hospital in the Netherlands. Cox regression models were built including cardiotoxic cancer treatment exposures with and without EF to estimate the probability of LVD40 at 10-year follow-up. Calibration, discrimination, and reclassification were assessed. Results were externally validated in 218 CCS. ResultsCumulative incidences of LVD40 at 10-year follow-up were 3.7% and 3.6% in the derivation and validation cohort, respectively. The addition of EF resulted in an integrated area under the curve increase from 0.74 to 0.87 in the derivation cohort and from 0.72 to 0.86 in the validation cohort (likelihood ratio p < 0.001). Reclassification of CCS without LVD40 improved significantly (noncase continuous net reclassification improvement 0.50; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.40 to 0.60). A predicted LVD40 probability ≤3%, representing 75% of the CCS, had a negative predictive value of 99% (95% CI: 98% to 100%) for LVD40 within 10 years. However, patients with midrange EF (40% to 49%) at initial screening had an incidence of LVD40 of 11% and a 7.81-fold (95% CI: 2.07- to 29.50-fold) increased risk of LV40 at follow-up. ConclusionsIn CCS, an initial surveillance EF, in addition to anthracyclines and chest-directed radiotherapy dose, improves the 10-year prediction for LVD40. Through this strategy, both the identification of low-risk survivors in whom the surveillance frequency may be reduced and a group of survivors at increased risk of LVD40 could be identified.

Investigating the Outcomes of Aluminum Phosphide Poisoning in Khorshid Referral Hospital, Isfahan, Iran: A Retrospective Study.

Objective:Aluminum phosphide (ALP) (rice-tablet) is a common cause of adult poisoning in Iran, including Isfahan. So far, no effective treatment has been identified for this poisoning. We aimed to investigate the outcome of ALP poisoned patients admitted to the clinical toxicology ward of Khorshid Hospital in Isfahan from 2017 to 2019.Methods:This chart-review study was performed on the population of ALP poisoned patients admitted to the clinical toxicology ward of Khorshid University Hospital from 2017 to 2019 treated with the hospital’s new treatment protocol, using the complete enumeration approach. The outcomes were determined by reviewing and abstracting medical charts of ALP poisoned patients from the hospital archive.Findings:The most common complaints at admission were depressed consciousness (41.9%) and vomiting (32.2%). There was no significant change in blood sugar, pH, base excess (BE), and venous blood bicarbonate throughout their hospitalization (P > 0.05). Treatment outcomes had a significant relationship with blood pH 2 h and 6 h after admission and the BE 6 h after admission (P < 0.05). There was also a significant relationship between the outcome and the length of stay, initial ejection fraction (EF), and EF in predischarge echocardiography (P < 0.05). Out of 31 patients, 24 (77.4%) died within 72 h, 5 (16.1%) recovered without any complication, and 2 (6.5%) recovered with some complications.Conclusion:The mortality rate of ALP poisoned patients was reasonably high and can be attributed to the poor efficacy of the new treatment protocol or the long time it takes for patients to reach the hospital and start receiving treatments.