Left Atrial Reservoir Strain Research Articles

Effects of an Impaired Fasting Glucose on the Left Atrial Strain Evaluated by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography.

Background and Objectives: Similar to diabetes, the presence of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function (DD) has been reported in various studies which were conducted with people with a diagnosis of an impaired fasting blood glucose (FBG). This study aimed to examine the effects of the fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels on the left atrial strain (LAS) estimated by two-dimensional echocardiography speckle tracking analyses in patients without known diabetes. Material and Methods: The study included 148 participants (74 female and 74 male) without a history of diabetes mellitus or chronic disease. The patients were divided into two groups as follows: individuals with an FBG < 100 mg/dL and those with an FBG between 100 and 125 mg/dL after at least 8 h of overnight fasting. According to these FBG levels, speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) measures were compared. Results: There was a significant decrease in the LA reservoir (52.3 ± 15 vs. 44.5 ± 10.7; p = 0.001) and conduit strain (36.9 ± 11.7 vs. 28.4 ± 9.7; p = 0.001) in the impaired FBG group. When the STE findings of both ventricles were compared, no significant difference was observed between the groups in right and left ventricular strain imaging. Conclusions: In the earliest stage of LVDD, changes in atrial functional parameters become particularly evident. Echocardiographic analyses of these parameters can help to diagnose and determine the degree of LVDD while the morphological parameters are still normal. The addition of LAS imaging to routine transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) studies in patients with an impaired FBG but without a DM diagnosis may be helpful in demonstrating subclinical LVDD or identifying patients at risk for LVDD in this patient group.

Left atrial strain as an independent predictor of sinus rhythm maintenance after catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in HFpEF patients

Abstract Background The early AF treatment by radio-frequency catheter ablation (CA) is very important for improving clinical outcome in patients with history of atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Left atrial (LA) strain showed to be a useful index to monitor atrial function in AF and HFpEF states. However, the accuracy of LA strain to predict the long-term maintenance of sinus rhythm (SR) in HFpEF patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing CA is still under debate. Aims To define the best echocardiography derived parameters to predict the long-term maintenance of SR in paroxysmal AF patients with high probability of HFpEF undergoing CA. Methods We prospectively enrolled 200 consecutive patients (62 ± 10 years, 58% males) with dyspnea (NYHA≥II), paroxysmal AF and preserved LV ejection fraction (≥50%). All patients had a H2FPEF score suggesting high probability of HFpEF. During sinus rhythm, all patients underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography at baseline, including assessment of left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), left atrial (LA) reservoir strain (LASr), LA conduit strain (LAScd) and LA contractile strain (LASct) using two-dimensional speckle tracking in apical views. Results After 42+/-8 months follow-up, a total of 34 (17%) patients had a documented recurrence of AF. Patients with AF recurrence had lower LASr (22.2% vs. 28.3%, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and LASct (10.9% vs. 13.2%, p &amp;lt; 0.01) compared to patients who keep on SR. Among speckle tracking derived LA phasic strain indices, LASr showed the largest area under the curve (AUC = 0.8, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and the strongest independent predictive value (LASr &amp;gt; 22%) of long-term maintenance of SR with sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 66% (Figure 1). Other parameters of LA function, LA diameter, maximum or minimum LA volume index, LV GLS or ejection fraction, and indices of LV diastolic function had lower area under the curve. Using multivariable logistic regression, only LASr (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81-0.97, p=0.013) was independently associated with long-term SR maintenance while other LA size and function indices were not. Conclusion In HFpEF patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing CA, LASr is more accurate predictor of SR maintenance than other standard echocardiographic parameters in long-term follow-up.

Left atrial strain measurement to predict new-onset atrial fibrillation in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients

Abstract Background/Introduction ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains a healthcare burden not only through increased mortality risk, but also development of chronic cardiac pathologies like atrial fibrillation (AF). Left atrial (LA) reservoir strain is a known predictor of incident AF in the general population. Purpose Our aim was to explore the additional prognostic value of LA reservoir strain measured by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in STEMI patients for new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF). Methods Data were analyzed retrospectively from an ongoing STEMI registry. Patients with previous myocardial infarction, AF, known history of heart failure, severe valvular pathology, suboptimal image quality, AF during TTE or missing follow-up were excluded. TTE was performed within 48 hours of hospitalization. LA reservoir strain was measured in apical 4-chamber view. LA strain &amp;lt;23% was used as cut-off value for impaired LA function as previously established. The endpoint was NOAF. Follow-up was censored at last patient visit or at 5 years. Results In total 1238 patients (mean age 60±12 years; 930 (75%) men) were included. After median follow-up of 22 months (IQR 12; 60) 106 (8.6%) patients developed NOAF, most events (71 (67%)) taking place within the first year after STEMI. Mean LA reservoir strain was more impaired in patients who developed NOAF as compared to those who did not (19.3 ± 8.1% versus 24.3 ± 8.8% respectively (p&amp;lt;0.001). Clinical and echocardiographical characteristics are shown in the table. Cumulative event-free survival rates at 1, 3 and 5 years in patients with preserved versus decreased LA strain were 97%, 95% and 93% versus 91%, 89% and 83% respectively (Log-rank X2 = 21.1; p&amp;lt;0.001; Figure). Factors significant on univariable Cox regression analysis (age, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, troponin levels, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, interventricular septum diameter, left ventricular global longitudinal strain, LA volume index, LA reservoir strain, E/E’ ratio and right ventricular fractional area change) were included in multivariable model, where LA reservoir strain remained significantly associated with NOAF (HR 0.96 (0.93 – 0.99); p=0.015). Addition of LA strain provided incremental prognostic value over baseline clinical risk factors, traditional TTE parameters and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (X2 84.5 vs 88.8; p=0.013). Conclusion LA reservoir strain was associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation in STEMI patients after adjusting for relevant clinical and echocardiographic risk factors.TableFigure

Prognosis of diastolic dysfunction in patients with preserved LVEF. Value of left atrial strain

Abstract Introduction The assessment of diastolic function is of paramount importance in a context of an epidemic of HFpEF. (1) Left atrial reservoir Strain (LARS) &amp;lt;18% identif patients with elevated filling pressures when one of the three standard criteria is not available. (2) However, LARS has better accuracy in patients with reduced than preserved EF. (2,3) The aim of our study was to assess the prognosis of patients with preserved LVEF according to the different grades of diastolic function and to determine whether LARS can improve the prognostic assessment of these patients. Methods Observational, prospective, single-center study. We included 364 patients referred for transthoracic echocardiography at the indication of their responsible physician. Inclusion criteria were: LVEF&amp;gt;50% and sinus rhythm. Diastolic function was assessed according to current ASE/EACVI guidelines. LARS was measured in 4 and 2 chambers, obtaining a mean value. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters were evaluated. The primary endpoint was a combined event of heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF) or stroke, whichever occurred first. Events were recorded from the electronic medical record. Results 364 patients were included (53% women), age 68 years (±14), LVEF Simpson 64.4% (± 6.9), BMI 28.31 (±5.65). Patients were grouped into 4 groups: normal diastolic function (NDF) 88 patients, grade 1 diastolic dysfunction (DD1) 88 patients, grade 2-3 diastolic dysfunction (DD2-DD3) 114 patients and indeterminate diastolic function or diastolic dysfunction of undetermined grade (IDF-DDI) 76 patients. After a mean follow-up of 2.44 (±1.03) years, 55 events were recorded (15% of the sample). Compared to patients with NDF (1 event/88 patients), those with DD1 had no increased risk, HR 0.73 (0.05- 11.87), p=0.82, while those with FDI-DDI and DD2-DD3 had increased risk of events, HR 9.21 (1.16-73.35), p= 0.04 and HR 16.88 (2.09- 136.31), p=0.008, respectively. Figure 1. On the other hand, compared to patients with LARS &amp;gt;24%, those with a LARS 18-24% and with a LARS ≤18% presented higher risk of events, HR 2.99 (1.37- 6.53), p=0.006 and HR 5.25 (2.14- 12.88), p=0.0003, respectively. Figure 2A. Analyzing only patients with IDF-DDI, again those with LARS ≤18% and LARS 18-24% were at higher risk than those with LARS &amp;gt;24%. Figure 2B. Conclusions In our population of patients with preserved LVEF and sinus rhythm, those with DD2-DD3 and with IDF-DDI are at increased risk of presenting combined HF/ AF/stroke events, not so those with DD1. A LARS value ≤24% identifies patients at increased risk of events, also in those with IDF-DDI. Therefore, from a prognostic point of view, in our study a LARS value ≤24% better identifies patients at increased risk of events than a LARS value ≤18%. This could have implications in AF screening and risk factors management. More studies will be needed to confirm these results.Figure 1.Kaplan-Meier curves of combineFigure 2.Kaplan-Meier curves for the pr

Dissociation of LA volume and deformation is a hallmark of ATTR-CA

Abstract Background Transthyretin Cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA) is associated with an infiltrative left atrial (LA) cardiomyopathy. Purpose We sought to identify unique characteristics of LA cardiomyopathy in CA compared to non-amyloid states of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Methods In suspected patients, a diagnosis of ATTR-CA was made by a positive Tc-99m PYP in conjunction with negative serum/urine studies for a clonal plasma cell dyscrasia. Endomyocardial biopsy was performed when clinically indicated. All patients underwent complete transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with speckle tracking strain imaging. Left ventricular (LV) strain, LA reservoir strain (LASr) and LA volume index (LAVI) were measured. LA stiffness index was estimated by the ratio (E/e’)/LASr. ATTR-CA patients were compared to patient with non- CA LVH (interventricular septal thickness &amp;gt; 1.2 cm). Atrial fibrillation (AF) during the TTE was noted. Logistic regression and Cox-regression analyses were performed to find the independent determinant of ATTR-CA and outcome predictors, respectively. Results We studied 98 patients with ATTR-CA (44 with AF) and 62 patients with non-CA LVH (35 with AF). ATTR-CA patients had a higher prevalence of relative apical sparing (RAS) (79% vs 20%, p&amp;lt;0.0001), reduced LASr (9.8±4.8% vs 14.0±7.2%; p&amp;lt;0.001) and high LA stiffness (2.5±0.2 vs 1.4±0.9; p&amp;lt;0.001) irrespective of AF. Surprisingly, LAVI of ATTR-CA patients was significantly lower than non- CA LVH patients (44±15 ml/m2 vs 51±24 ml/m2; p=0.046). Consequently, LAVI correlated strongly with LASr in non-amyloid LVH group (r= -0.52, p&amp;lt;0.001) whereas no correlation was observed in ATTR-CA (p&amp;lt;0.05) (Figure 1). Patients with ATTR-CA had the lowest LASr and highest LA stiffness regardless of AF (Figure 2). Importantly, LASr determined ATTR-CA among all study subjects independently of RAS (p&amp;lt;0.001) and emerged as a predictor of composite endpoint including all-cause mortality, hospitalization from heart failure and stroke in ATTR-CA patients (p=0.037). Conclusion ATTR-CA is characterized by severely reduced LASr and increased LA stiffness, yet LA dilatation is relatively less severe when compared to other causes of LVH. LASr seems promising to make the differential diagnosis of ATTR-CA and is of prognostic importance.Figure 1Figure 2

Left atrial strain and long-term risk of atrial fibrillation in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Background The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients is higher than in the general population, and it is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes, such as stroke, heart failure, and mortality. The left atrium (LA) plays an important role in maintaining normal cardiac function, and alterations in its structure and function can contribute to the development of AF. LA strain, a surrogate of LA remodeling, has been suggested a predictor of future AF. Purpose The aim of this study was to explore risk factors of new onset AF highlighting LA strain in patients with HCM. Methods Among a prospective cohort of 865 HCM patients collected at two large tertiary centers, 696 with adequate echocardiographic images to measure LA strain without a history of AF were included in the analysis. LA strain was measured on apical four-chamber view at initial evaluation using vendor-independent speckle-tracking software. The primary endpoint was new onset AF during 10 years after initial evaluation. Results The median age was 55.0 years and 74.3% were male. A median value of LA reservoir strain (LARS) was 26.2 % [interquartile range 20.4, 33.3]. Among the 696 patients, 66 had new onset AF 10 years, with a 10-year incidence of 15.8%. The unadjusted risk factors for new onset AF were previous stroke, non-apical HCM, family history of HCM, non-sustained ventricular tachycardia, obstructive HCM, extensive late gadolinium enhancement, larger LA diameter, larger LA volume, and lower LARS. LARS remained an independent predictor of new onset AF in multivariable analysis. The best cut-off value of LARS was 17.9% (hazard ratio 4.00, 95% confidence interval 2.44–6.55, p&amp;lt;0.001). Compared with LARS ≥17.9%, LARS &amp;lt;17.9% was significantly associated with a higher incidence of new onset AF, irrespective of presence of clinical risk factors (Figure 1) and LA enlargement (Figure 2). Conclusions In patients with HCM, low LA strain is an independent predictor of new onset AF.

Association of GDF15, NTpoBNP and PLGF with subclinical cardiac dysfunction in type 2 diabetes: effects of novel antidiabetic treatment

Abstract Background In type 2 diabetics, we investigated the effects of insulin, GLP-1Ra, SGLT-2i and their combination on blood biomarkers of cardiac function and their association with left ventricular and atrial function. Patients and methods A total of 200 diabetics (60.3±10.3-year-old) treated with metformin were randomized to insulin (n= 50), liraglutide (n=50), empagliflozin (n=50) or their combination (GLP-1RA+SGLT-2i) (n= 50) . We measured at baseline and 6 months post-treatment: (a) perfused boundary region of the sublingual arterial microvessels (marker of endothelial glycocalyx thickness), (b) pulse wave velocity (PWV), (c) Left Ventricular (LV) Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) and Torsion, (d) LV Global Work Index (GWI), Global Constructive Work (GCW), Global Wasted Work (GWW), Global Work Efficiency (GWE), (e) Left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) and (f) Growth/Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF-15), NTproBNP, Placental Growth Factor (PLGF) as markers of cardiac dysfunction. Results Increasing GGDF-15 levels at baseline were related with increasing PWV (r=0.357, p&amp;lt;0.001). Moreover, increasing GDF-15 was related with reduced absolute GLS values (r=-0.425, p=0.005), increased LV Torsion (r=0.309, p=0.035), Twisting Velocity (r=0.345, p=0.018) and E/E’ (r=0.307, p=0.041) as well as reduced Untwisting velocity (r=-0.383, p=0.008) and LASr (r=-0,388, p=0.005). Increasing NTproBNP concentration at baseline was related with increasing PWV (r=0.445, p=0.001 and PBR5-25 (r=0.222, p=0.04) . Also, increasing NTroBNP was related with reduced absolute GLS (r=-0.454, p=0.002), LV GL strain rate (r=-0.360, p=0.008) , increased LV Torsion (r=0.329, p=0.029) and E/E’ (r=0.365, p=0.021). Increasing NTproBNP was also related with decreasing GWI (r=-0.471, p&amp;lt;0.001), GWE (r=-0.555, p&amp;lt;0.001), Untwisting velocity (r=-0.383, p=0.008) and LASr (r=-0,424, p=0.002). PLGF concentration at baseline was related with reduced absolute GLS (r=-0.341, p=0.012), LV GL strain rate (r=-0.302, p=0.008) and LASr (r=-0.321, p=0.036). At 6 months, the reduction of GDF-15 and NTproBNP levels was related with the respective reduction of PWV (p=0.022 and p=0.34) Furthermore, the reduction of NTproBNP at 6 months was related with an increase of GWI and GWE (r=0.455, p=0.006/ r=0.631, p=0.001,respectively). In patients treated with GLP-1RA, SGLT-2i and their combination, there was greater improvement of GLS, Torsion, Myocardial Work, LASr, NTproBNP, GDF-15 PLGF compared to patients treated with insulin (p&amp;lt;0.05) post-treatment. In patients treated with insulin, NTproBNP, GDF-15 and PLGF changes post-treatment were not related with the respective changes of the examined cardiac and vascular markers. Conclusion Elevated levels of GDF15, PLGF and NTproBNP are associated with cardiac and vascular dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetics and their improvement after 6 months of treatment with GLP-1RA and /or SGLT2i is associated with improved cardiovascular function.

Atrial cardiomyopathy by strain predicts atrial fibrillation in young Lamin A/C patients

Abstract Introduction Cardiac laminopathy is a malignant and highly arrhythmogenic form of dilated cardiomyopathy caused by variants in the lamin A/C (LMNA) gene. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common during disease progression and often occurs at a young age, before evident structural cardiac changes and therefore, decision making on anticoagulation for AF is challenging. Whether atrial cardiomyopathy is present at this early stage of LMNA disease has not yet been explored. Purpose We aimed to evaluate for atrial cardiomyopathy in LMNA genotype positive subjects without prior atrial arrhythmias and assess whether atrial cardiomyopathy would be associated with the occurrence of AF during follow-up. Methods We prospectively recruited LMNA genotype-positive patients in a cohort study. Patients without prior documented atrial arrhythmias were evaluated for atrial cardiomyopathy by echocardiography. Atrial cardiomyopathy was evaluated by left atrial (LA) volume index (LAVI) and LA strain (peak reservoir strain and peak conduit strain). LA strain was assessed by 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography, averaged from apical four- and two-chamber views using a LA strain dedicated software with R-wave at end diastole as zero-reference point. Results We evaluated 129 LMNA genotype positive patients (51% women, age 40±15 years), of whom 57 patients (44%) had previous AF. Hence, we included 72 patients (32±14 years old, 49% female, left ventricular ejection fraction 53±11%) for assessment of atrial cardiomyopathy. The mean LA reservoir strain was 35±14%, conduit strain 25±13% and LAVI 38±23 ml/m2. During 7.7±5.0 years of follow-up, 28 (39%) patients developed AF after a median of 2.2 years. Patients with AF during follow-up had larger LAVI (47±30 vs. 32±10ml/m2, p=0.01) and worse LA reservoir strain (29±12% vs. 38±14%, p=0.02) at baseline than those who did not develop AF. LA reservoir strain and LAVI at baseline were both predictors of AF during short-term follow-up (HR 0.95 [CI 0.90-0.99], p=0.025 and HR 1.02 [CI 1.01-1.03], p=0.009, respectively), whereas LA conduit strain was not (HR 0.98 [CI 0.94-1.03], p=0.45). ROC analysis identified LA reservoir strain better than 32.5% as the best discriminating value for survival free of AF (log rank p=0.05) (Figure). Conclusion Atrial cardiomyopathy was common in LMNA genotype positive patients without previous atrial arrhythmias. LA volume and and LA reservoir strain predicted new onset AF during follow-up and may be used as markers for detecting short term risk of AF and potentially guide anticoagulation treatment in LMNA disease.LA reservoir strain and AF in LaminA/C

Left atrial strain measured by three-dimensional echocardiography predicts atrial fibrillation in the general population

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA) strain is prognostic of adverse cardiovascular events. LA strain by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) has been proposed as a more accurate measure of LA function and provide incremental prognostic benefits than traditional two-dimensional approaches. Our aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of LA strain by 3DE in predicting incident atrial fibrillation (AF) in the general population. Methods The study included 4,466 participants from a prospective longitudinal cohort study in the general population, among these 2,082 participants underwent 3DE of the LA. After excluding participants with poor image quality (n=70), low volume rate (n=8) and AF at baseline (n=51) 1,956 participants were included in the final study. The endpoint was incident AF. Results Mean age was 54±17 years, 44% were male. During a median follow-up time of 4.8 years (interquartile range 4.3-5.5 years) 59 participants (3.0%) developed AF. At baseline, mean left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) was 29.3±6.7%, mean left atrial conduit strain (LAScd) was 16.5±6.7%, and mean left atrial contractile strain (LASct) was 12.8±4.8. The incidence of AF increased significantly with decreasing LA strain measures (p&amp;lt;0.001) (figure 1). In univariable analysis, all three parameters were associated with incident AF (p value for all &amp;lt;0.01). After multivariable adjustment for CHARGE-AF risk score (age, height, weight, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, smoking, antihypertensive medication, diabetes, congestive heart failure and myocardial infarction), only LASr and LASct were associated with incident AF (LASr: HR 1.11 (1.07-1.17), p&amp;lt;0.001, per 1% decrease; LASct: HR 1.16 (1.09-1.24), p&amp;lt;0.001, per 1% decrease), whereas LAScd was not (HR 1.04 (0.98-1.10), p=0.17, per 1% decrease). Conclusion LA reservoir and contraction strain by 3DE are independently associated incident AF in the general population.

Effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and their combination on markers of neurohumoral activation and left atrial strain

Abstract Background We investigated the effects of insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and their combination on neurohumoral biomarkers, left ventricular and left atrial function in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients and methods A total of 200 patients (60.3±10.3 years old, 138 male) with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with metformin were randomized to insulin (n= 50 served as controls), liraglutide (n=50), empagliflozin (n=50) or their combination (GLP-1RA+SGLT-2i) (n= 50) as add-on. We measured at baseline and 6 months posttreatment: (a) Left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) (b) serum biomarkers of cardiac function as Growth/Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF-15), NTproBNP, Placental Growth Factor (PLGF). Results In all patients, increasing GDF-15 levels at baseline were positively related with NTproBNP (r=0.230, p=0.017), PWV (r=0.357, p&amp;lt;0.001), GLS (r=0.425, p=0.005) and negatively related with LASr (r=-0,388, p=0.005). Increasing NTproBNP concentration at baseline was positively related with GLS (r=0.454, p=0.002) and negatively related with LASr (r=-0,424, p=0.002). Treatment with SGLT-2i improved GDF-15 and NTproBNP (2032±187 vs 1803±178 pg/mL, p=0.016, 215±67 vs 124±52 pg/mL, p=0.005, respectively), while treatment with GLP-1RA had a neutral effect on these biomarkers (p&amp;gt;0.05). However, the combined treatment of SGLT-2i with GLP-1RA also improved the examined biomarkers (p&amp;lt;0.05). Compared to baseline, no significant change in GDF-15 and NTproBNP levels was observed in patients treated with insulin (1815±234 vs 1730±192 pg/mL, p=0.235, 245±43 vs 232±32 pg/mL, p=0.583, respectively). After intervention, all patients treated with GLP1RA, SGLT2i and their combination improved left atrial reservoir strain (GLP1RA: 30.7±9.3 vs 33.9±9.7%, p=0,011, SGLT2i 30±8.3 vs 32.3±7.3%, p=0.04/ GLP1&amp;SGLT2i :29.1±8,7 vs 31.3±8.2, p=0.007) in comparison with insulin (33±8.3% vs 32.8±7,4, p=0.829). Conclusions Treatment with GLP-1RA, SGLT-2i and their combination for 6 months showed a greater improvement of markers of neurohumoral activation and left atrial function compared to insulin, suggesting a role in heart failure prevention.

Contribution of the left atrial speckle tracking in the evaluation of left ventricule filling pressure in acute coronary syndromes

Abstract Introduction A non invasive estimation of diastolic function with echocardiography according to consensual methods, ie American society of Echocardiography (ASE) / European association of cardiovascular imaging (EACVI) algorithm 2018, is considered an integral essential part of the clinical evaluation of patients presenting with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Left atrial (LA) longitudinal strain in the frame of speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) was reported recently to have additive diagnostic value to assess left ventricle (LV) filling pressures (LVFP) in a large spectrum of cardiovascular diseases. Our study aim is to assess the accuracy of LA strain in evaluating LVFP in patients with ACS, as a single parameter. Methods Our study was monocentric in our cardiology department led prospectively between April 20, 2022, and June 30, 2022. We included all patients admitted to our department for evolving ST elevation (STEMI) or non-ST elevation (NSTEMI) myocardial infarction (&amp;lt;48 hours from onset of symptoms). Echocardiographic measurements were performed according to ASE/EACVI in less than 24 hours. They were divided into two groups according to the elevation of LVFP group 1 with non-elevated LVFP vs group with elevated LVF. LA-GS was assessed using images obtained in apical 4- and 2-chamber views , with attention to optimal visualization of the LA. The endocardial border of the LA was traced manually. Left atrial reservoir strain (LARS) was calculated from LV-end diastole, and pump strain (LAPS) after the onset of the p-wave in the electrocardiogram. Results Fifty patients were included in our study. The mean age was 59 ± 12 years. 72%(36) of our population was men. 34%(17) of the population had elevated LVFP (Group2) with a male predominance of 82% (14). They were active smokers in 64% (11), 52%(9) had hypertension, 70% (12) had diabetes mellitus, 47%(8) had dyslipidemia and 35% (6) were hospitalized for NSTEMI. The mean LARS and LAPS were 26.9%, and 15.2% in group 1 vs 15.1%, and 7.1% respectively in group 2 with a difference statically significative p = 0.001, and p = 0.002 respectively. The area under the curve was 0.910 (LARS) and 0.850 (LAPS). The best cut-off for the LAPS was 11.5% with 100% of sensibility and 63% of specificity, for the LARS the best cut-off was 18% with 95% of sensibility and 66% of specificity. Conclusion LA-GS includes a reproducible and simple method for LVFP assessment in ACS. it provides an additional variable that can contribute when one of the other parameters is missing.

The prognostic value of left atrial strain in patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA) function is known to be an independent prognostic parameter in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, the impact of LA function on postinterventional outcomes in patients with severe low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis (LFLG AS) is unknown. Objectives We aimed to evaluate postinterventional changes and prognostic value of LA strain in patients with LFLG AS who underwent TAVR. Methods We retrospectively included 88 patients (79.66 ± 6.33, 37.5% female) with symptomatic LFLG AS who underwent TAVR at the Heart Center Bonn. LA global function and strain were comprehensively assessed by the postprocessing left atrial phasic strain analysis – LA reservoir strain, LA conduit strain, and LA contractile strain ­– using a commercially available postprocessing software at baseline and three years after the procedure. The apical four-, two-, and three-chamber views with sufficient image quality were used for strain analysis. Results Baseline LA strain was found to be impaired in all patients (reservoir: 13.17 ± 7.62 %; conduit: 6.7 ± 6.4 %; contractile: -1.7 ±1.5 %). All-cause mortality was 41 % three years after the procedure. In the overall collective, LA reservoir strain was increased at follow-up (13.17 ± 7.62 % to 15.21 ± 10.13 %, p= 0.049), whereas conduit and contractile strain remained unchanged (p &amp;gt; 0.05). According to the survival at follow-up, we divided the cohort into survivors and non-survivors. Baseline reservoir (14.55 ± 8.14 % vs 9.59 ± 5.23 %, p= 0.002) and conduit (7.66 ± 7.14 % vs 4.44 ± 4.1 %, p= 0.017) strain were significantly higher in survivors. All LA strain parameters were significantly improved in survivors at follow-up. In contrast, non-survivors showed no relevant changes in LA strain parameters. In comparison of ROC curves, reservoir strain was found to be the best predictor for postinterventional survival after TAVR (reservoir AUC: 0.677, cutoff: 10 %, p = 0.007; conduit AUC: 0.642, cutoff: 3.7 %, p = 0.037; contractile AUC: 0.672, cutoff: -1,3 %, p = 0.008). Concordantly, we found that all LA strain parameters are independent predictors for three-year all-cause mortality after TAVR in cox regression analysis (reservoir OR: 0.89, p=0.005; conduit OR: 0.90, p=0.03, contractile OR: 0.71, p=0.029) in cox regression analysis. According to multivariate analysis, reservoir strain (OR: 0.91, p=0.05) and conduit strain (OR: 0.94, p=0.04) were found to be independent predictors for postinterventional survival. According to log-rank analysis, patients with a baseline reservoir strain &amp;lt; 10 % and a baseline conduit strain &amp;lt; 4 %) showed significantly higher mortality (p = 0.048). Conclusion Using LA strain parameters might optimize risk stratification and better decision-making with sufficient patient selection in this vulnerable cohort.

Association between left atrial strain and peri-operative stroke in catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background It has been reported that left atrial (LA) phasic function, evaluated by LA strain, is associated with cardiogenic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). There are no well-established echocardiographic findings to predict peri-operative stroke in AF ablation. Purpose The aim is to evaluate between LA strain and peri-operative stroke in AF ablation. Methods This study included 103 consecutive AF patients (90 paroxysmal and 13 non-paroxysmal AF cases) who underwent initial cryo-ablation without interruption of peri-operative anticoagulation from January 2019 to August 2022. Pre-operative echocardiography was used to measure the LA strain items: LA reservoir strain, contractile strain, and conduit strain in sinus rhythm. Twenty-three patients were excluded due to AF rhythm and atrial septal defect. Peri-operative stroke was detected by using magnetic resonance imaging on the day after ablation. Results Peri-operative stroke occurred in 9 patients (11.3%), and there was no symptomatic stroke. In univariate analysis, age (69.6 ± 4.8 years vs. 64.2 ± 10.9 years, p&amp;lt;0.05) and log brain natriuretic peptide (1.61 ± 0.26 vs. 1.32 ± 0.42 p&amp;lt;0.05) were significantly higher in the stroke group. On the other hand, LA reservoir strain (20.9 ± 5.6% vs. 29.8 ± 8.3%, p&amp;lt;0.01) and LA conduit strain (10.9 ± 2.3% vs. 15.9 ± 7.0%, p&amp;lt;0.01) in the stroke group was significantly lower compared with the non-stroke group. There were no significant differences in the rate of intra-operative electrical cardioversion and other clinical parameters between both groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that LA reservoir strain cut-off value of 22.7% provided a c-statistic of 0.82 for predicting peri-operative stroke in AF ablation. Conclusions LA reservoir strain is closely associated with peri-operative stroke in AF ablation.ROC curve analysis

Contribution of reduced skeletal muscle perfusion reserve to exercise intolerance in HFpEF

Abstract Methods Transthoracic echocardiography and skeletal muscle microvascular perfusion by contrast-enhanced ultrasound were performed at rest and immediately post exercise test in 77 HFpEF patients in NYHA class II and III, and in 20 age- and sex-matched individuals with a similar profile of comorbidities, but normal exercise tolerance. Exercise reserve of cardiac function parameters and skeletal muscle perfusion was calculated by subtracting resting value from exercise value. Results HFpEF patients demonstrated impairment of left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) function reserve as reflected by lower exercise-induced increases in LV global longitudinal strain, LA reservoir strain, cardiac output and e’ mitral annular velocity, and higher increase in E/e’ ratio (Table). Similarly, skeletal muscle microvascular blood flow (MBF) reserve was lower in HFpEF patients than in the referents. There was no significant difference between the study group and the control group in resting MBF. MBF reserve was significantly associated with exercise capacity (r = 0.34; p = 0.004) and cardiac output reserve (r = 0.24; p = 0.04). In multivariable analysis including clinical and demographic variables, LV and LA components of cardiac functional reserve (LV global longitudinal strain, LA reservoir strain, cardiac output, e’ and E/e’) and MBF reserve, change from rest to exercise in MBF (beta 0.32, SE 0.10, p = 0.003) was in addition to patient age, sex and LV strain reserve among the independent correlates of exercise capacity. Conclusions Skeletal muscle perfusion reserve is impaired in HFpEF, and is associated with reduced exercise capacity independent of clinical, demographic and "central" cardiac factors. Accordingly, our results provide a rationale for extending the spectrum of pathophysiological milieu to be considered when planning patient management strategies in HFpEF over skeletal muscle-associated contributors to exercise intolerance.

Left atrial functional changes and its predictive value in the early period after cryoballoon ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Abstract Introduction/Purpose In patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), functional changes are observed in the left atrium (LA) after the pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) procedure. Although previous studies have investigated the altered mechanical functions of the LA with radiofrequency (RF) ablation, changes in the LA functions in the early period after cryoablation (CB-2) and the relationship between early period serial echocardiographic follow-ups after cryoablation and recurrence of atrial fibrillation/atrial tachycardia (AF/AT) have not been clearly demonstrated. This study aims to determine changes in the mechanical functions of LA in patients with PAF during the early period after cryoablation and whether these changes are effective in predicting the risk of recurrence by using echocardiographic parameters including Doppler and strain parameters. Methods Consecutive seventy-seven patients (mean age: 57.5±11.2 years; 57% men) with PAF underwent CB-2 and were prospectively analyzed. All patients were in sinus rhythm before and after the procedure. The LA dimensions, the LA reservoir strain (LASr), the LA atrial contractile strain (LASct), the LA conduit strain (LAScd) and left ventricular diastolic function parameters were evaluated by Doppler echocardiography before and 3 months after the procedure. Patients were monitored with 48-hour Holter at 1-3-6-12th months after the procedure to evaluate for recurrence. Results Acute procedural success was achieved in all cases. No major complications were observed. LASr and LASct showed significant recovery after the procedure (28.3±12.8% vs 34.6±13.8%, p&amp;lt;0.001 and -10.8±7.9% vs -13.9±9.3%, p=0.014 respectively). No significant change was demonstrated in other echocardiographic parameters. During the one-year follow-up after the procedure late recurrence (&amp;gt;3 months) of AF/AT was observed in 9 (11.7%) patients. Although the power of echocardiographic parameters in predicting recurrence was found to be not statistically significant, a downward trend especially in the values of LASr (p=0.068) and LASct (p=0.058) was observed at the 3rd month control echocardiographic results in patients with recurrence. Conclusion Significant improvement in mechanical functions may occur even in the early period after cryoballoon ablation in patients with PAF. In addition, as our study points out strain parameters, indicators of mechanical function tend to decline in patients with late term recurrence.

Normal values for left atrial strain, volume and function derived from three-dimensional echocardiography in the general population

Abstract Background Three-dimensional echocardiographic (3DE) assessment of the left atrium (LA) is a new modality of potential clinical value. Age- and sex-based normative values are needed to benchmark these parameters for clinical use. Methods The study included 4,466 participants from a prospective longitudinal cohort study in the general population, among these 2,082 participants underwent 3DE of the LA. Exclusion criteria were hypertension, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, history of stroke, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, use of heart medication, chronic kidney disease, use of pacemaker, significant valve regurgitation or valve stenosis. Healthy participants were included to establish normative values for LA strain, volume, and function by 3DE. The effects of age and sex on 3DE parameters were also evaluated. Mean volumes per second for included participants was 62.4±5.7. Results After excluding participants with comorbidities, the final study population constituted of 979 healthy participants, median age was 44 years (interquartile range 32-56 years), 40% men. The median and limits of normality (2.5th and 97.5th percentiles) for functional and volumetric measures were: LA reservoir strain (LASr) 30.8% (18.4-44.2%), LA conduit strain (LAScd) 19.1% (6.8-32.0%), LA contractile strain (LASct) 11.7% (4.3-22.2%) (Figure 1) total LA emptying fraction (LAEF) 61.4% (47.8-71.0%), passive LAEF 37.7% (17.4-53.9%), active LAEF 37.4% (22.2-52.5%), LA minimum volume index (LAVimin) 10.2 (5.9-18.5) ml/m2, and LA maximum volume index (LAVimax) 26.8 (16.5-40.1) ml/m2 (Figure 2). All parameters changed significantly with increasing age (p value for all &amp;lt;0.001). Significant sex-specific differences were observed for all parameters except for active LAEF. Sex significantly modified the association between age and LASr (p for interaction&amp;lt;0.001), LAScd (p for interaction&amp;lt;0.001), LAVimin (p for interaction=0.037), and total LAEF (p for interaction=0.034). Conclusion We present age- and sex specific reference material including limits of normality for LA strain, volume, and function by 3DE.

Novel SPECT/CT biomarker in transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis: correlation with myocardial amyloid load and cardiac structure and function

Abstract Background Single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) with determination of standardized uptake value (SUV) allows quantification of cardiac amyloid deposition. Purpose We aimed to investigate the relationship between quantitative cardiac tracer uptake determined by SPECT/CT and myocardial amyloid load, as well as cardiac structure and function in patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM), and to identify nuclear imaging biomarkers for monitoring disease progression. Methods ATTR-CM patients underwent [99mTc]-radiolabeled diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid ([99mTc]-DPD) scintigraphy and SPECT/CT imaging (n=40) with determination of SUV, as well as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR, n=25) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE, n=40). Results We observed significant correlations (r, Pearson's correlation coefficient) between SUV retention index and myocardial amyloid load [CMR extracellular volume (ECV): r=0.565, p=0.004, Figure 1A], cardiac structure [CMR interventricular septum: r=0.409, p=0.042, Figure 1B; CMR left ventricular mass index: r=0.508, p=0.010, Figure 1C], longitudinal cardiac function [TTE left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS): r=0.531, p=0.003, Figure 1D; TTE right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain: r=0.470, p=0.024, Figure 1E; TTE left atrial reservoir strain (LASr): r=-0.434, p=0.038, Figure 1F] and cardiac biomarkers [N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP): r=0.475, p=0.004; high-sensitive troponin T (hs-TnT): r=0.358, p=0.027]. ATTR-CM patients were divided into two cohorts based on the median (4.32 mg/dL) of SUV retention index (low SUV uptake cohort: ≤4.32 mg/dL, n=20; high SUV uptake cohort: &amp;gt;4.32 mg/dL, n=20). We observed significant between-cohort differences with respect to LV ejection fraction (low SUV uptake: 51.8% vs. high SUV uptake: 46.2%, p=0.045), LV GLS (-14.5% vs. -11.1%, p=0.001), LASr (11.6% vs. 7.1%, p=0.023), NT-proBNP (1300 pg/mL vs. 2786 pg/mL, p&amp;lt;0.001), hs-TnT (42.9 ng/L vs. 62.2 ng/L, p=0.016) and 6-min walk distance (440.1 m vs. 330.1 m, p=0.022). Conclusions Using quantitative SPECT/CT imaging, we demonstrated that SUV retention index correlates with myocardial amyloid load, cardiac structure and function, and cardiac biomarkers. Our data suggest that quantitative SPECT/CT imaging with determination of SUV retention index may be a valid tool to monitor disease progression in ATTR-CM patients.Figure 1

Left atrial mechanical dysfunction and the risk for ischemic stroke in HCM patients without prior atrial fibrillation or stroke

Abstract Background Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are at high risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) and ischemic stroke. Left atrial enlargement and dysfunction that characterize atrial myopathy may precede and promote AF and cardiac thromboembolism. In HCM patients without prior AF or stroke, whether left atrial mechanical dysfunction can improve ischemic stroke prediction is unknown. Method Patients with prior AF or stroke (n = 121) were excluded and 653 consecutive patients with HCM (mean age 47.3 ± 12.3 years, 71% male) who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) at Fuwai Hospital between January 2012 and December 2013 were finally enrolled. LA ejection fraction, strain and strain rate indices on reservoir, conduit and booster-pump phases that represent LA mechanical function were analyzed. The primary endpoint was ischemic stroke. The secondary endpoint was new-onset AF. Result At 7.6 ± 2.4 years of follow-up, 24 (3.7%) had ischemic stroke and 73 (11.2%) had new-onset AF. Patients with stroke had an older age (p = 0.014), higher incidence of hypertension (p &amp;lt; 0.001), more LGE presence (p = 0.006) and LGE extent (p = 0.007). For LA size and function, patients with stroke showed significantly higher LA volume index and lower LA ejection fraction and LA strain (all p &amp;lt; 0.01). Age, hypertension, LGE presence, LGE extent and all LA mechanical indices were univariably associated with stroke. On multivariate model, LA reservoir strain was associated with stroke (Hazard Ratio = 0.91. 95%CI 0.85-0.97, p = 0.005) independent of Age (p = 0.292), hypertension (p = 0.002), LGE extent (p = 0.003) and LA volume (p = 0.737). In addition, LA reservoir strain was also associated with new-onset AF (Hazard Ratio = 0.93. 95%CI 0.89-0.96, p &amp;lt; 0.001) independent of Age (p &amp;lt; 0.001), hypertension (p = 0.607), LGE extent (p = 0.882) and LA volume (p = 0.002). Conclusion In HCM patients without prior AF or stroke, LA mechanical dysfunction was a strong predictor for stroke and new-onset AF independent of LA enlargement, age, hypertension and LGE extent.

Left atrial dysfunction during stress in patients with atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA) myopathy with paroxysmal and permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequent in chronic coronary syndromes (CCS). Objective This study sought to assess LA function at rest and during stress across the spectrum of AF. Methods In a prospective, multicentric, observational study design, we studied a cohort of 2391 patients (age=67±12 years; 1459, 61% male): 2142 (89.6%) were in sinus rhythm (SR, Group 1), 165 (6.9%) had a history of paroxysmal AF (Group 2) and 84 (3.5%) were in permanent AF (Group 3). All patients were referred for CCS and underwent stress echocardiography (SE) with exercise (n=1092, 45.3%), dobutamine (n=320, 13.4%) or vasodilators (n= 989, 40.3%: dipyridamole n=963 and adenosine n=26). Left atrial volume index (LAVI) and LA reservoir strain (LASr) were assessed at rest and peak stress. Analysis with different vendors was performed offline on anonymized cine-loops by observers unaware of the study hypothesis. Results The progressive increase in LA dysfunction from Group 1 to 3 was accompanied by greater signs of pulmonary congestion and LV dysfunction (see Table 1). In particular, LASr progressively decreased from Group 1 to 3, both at rest and during stress, regardless of the stress employed (see Figure 1). Conclusions LA reservoir function can be easily assessed with deformation imaging at rest and during exercise or pharmacological stress echocardiography. LA dysfunction progressively increases from SR to paroxysmal to permanent AF and is associated with more important LV systolic dysfunction, LV filling pressure, and pulmonary congestion in CCS.Table 1.Echocardiographic parametersFigure 1.LAVI and LASr at rest and peak

Left atrial strain and risk of systemic embolic event in rheumatic mitral stenosis with sinus rhythm

Abstract Backgrounds Stroke and systemic embolism might be an important complication of rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) even though patients are in sinus rhythm (SR), but the risk of embolic events in this population are not well studied. Purpose We aimed to evaluate the risk factors of embolic events in patients with rheumatic MS and SR. Methods From the multi-center retrospective registry of 2426 patients with rheumatic MS, we included patients with rheumatic MS and SR (n=583) between January 2000 and December 2021. After exclusion of patients who had history of systemic embolic events, taking the anticoagulants, combined significant aortic valve dysfunction, and a history of valve surgery. We finally analyzed 443 patients. The primary outcome was defined as composite of stroke, transient ischemic attack, noncentral nervous system embolism. Results Among 448 patients (77.1% female; mean age, 52.3 ± 10.1 years), systemic embolic events developed in 38 (8.4 %) patients with annual incidence rate of 4.6/100 person-year during mean follow-up period of 96.4 ± 61.1 months (median 94.2 months). Patients who had systemic embolic events were significantly older and had higher the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes than those who did not, without significant differences in left atrial (LA) dimensions, volumes, pulmonary artery systolic pressure. Instead, LA strain was significantly impaired in patients with systemic embolic events (19.1 ± 9.3 vs. 15.5 ± 8.07, p= 0.034). In the multivariate analysis, LA strain was independent predictors of systemic embolic events [HR 0.96, 95 % CI: 0.93-0.99; P = 0.021], after adjustment for confounding factors. The impaired LA strain (LA reservoir strain &amp;lt; 16.6 %) also had incremental prognostic value for development of systemic embolic events over clinical factors and traditional echocardiographic parameters (Figure). Conclusions Impaired LA strain is a predictor of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with rheumatic MS in SR. Considering the risk for embolism, oral anticoagulation might be considered in patients with rheumatic MS in SR and impaired LA strain.Figure