Left Atrial Performance Research Articles

The impact of diabetes mellitus on cardiac function assessed by magnetic resonance imaging in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BackgroundThe adverse prognostic impact of diabetes on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is poorly understood. We sought to explore the underlying mechanisms in terms of structural and functional remodelling in HCM patients with coexisting diabetes (HCM-DM).MethodsA total of 45 HCM-DM patients were retrospectively included. Isolated HCM controls (HCM patients without diabetes) were matched to HCM-DM patients in terms of maximal wall thickness, age, and gender distribution. Left ventricular (LV) and atrial (LA) performance were evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking strain analyses. The associations between diabetes and LV/LA impairment were investigated by univariable and multivariable linear regression.ResultsCompared with the isolated HCM controls, the HCM-DM patients had smaller end-diastolic volume and stroke volume, lower ejection fraction, larger mass/volume ratio and impaired strains in all three directions (all P < 0.05). In terms of the LA parameters, HCM-DM patients presented impaired LA reservoir and conduit strain/strain rate (all P < 0.05). Among all HCM patients, comorbidity with diabetes was independently associated with a low LV ejection fraction (β = − 6.05, P < 0.001) and impaired global longitudinal strain (β = 1.40, P = 0.007). Moreover, compared with the isolated HCM controls, HCM-DM patients presented with more myocardial fibrosis according to late gadolinium enhancement, which was an independent predictor of impaired LV global radial strain (β = − 45.81, P = 0.008), LV global circumferential strain (β = 18.25, P = 0.003), LA reservoir strain (β = − 59.20, P < 0.001) and strain rate (β = − 2.90, P = 0.002).ConclusionsDiabetes has adverse effects on LV and LA function in HCM patients, which may be important contributors to severe manifestations and outcomes in those patients. The present study strengthened the evidence of the prevention and management of diabetes in HCM patients.

IMPACT OF ENDOVASCULAR ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM REPAIR ON VENTRICULO-ARTERIAL PERFORMANCE AND LEFT ATRIAL FUNCTION: COMPARATIVE PILOT STUDY

Objective: Ventriculo-arterial (VA) coupling characterizes the interaction between myocardial contractile function and the load opposed by the arterial circulation. Clinically, measurable indicators allowing for non-invasive cardiovascular performance assessment include pulse wave velocity (PWV), left ventricular (GLS) and left atrial strain (LA strain). Endovascular repair of the aortic aneurysm is related with changes in arterial properties, yet the impact of these changes on left ventricular and atrial function remains unclear. Aim: This study aimed to compare selected parameters of cardiovascular performance between individuals post-endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and age- and sex-matched group of hypertensive individuals without aortic aneurysm. Design and method: The study group comprised 36 patients who underwent endovascular stent grafting of the abdominal aorta (mean time from surgery 21,8±8,9 months). Control group included 43 hypertensives matched for age, sex and BMI. In all subjects structured echocardiographic examination was performed, including evaluation of LA strain, left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and GLS. Carotid-femoral PWV using SphygmoCor device was measured in all participants. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS statistics software. Results: The study and control groups did not differ in age (68,9±8,7 vs 67,6±6,6 years; p &gt;0.05), sex (M/F: 32/4 vs 38/5; p&gt;0.05) or BMI (28,9±4,9 vs 29,7 kg/m2; p&gt;;0.05). The study group exhibited significantly higher PWV compared to controls (10,02±1,98 vs 8.99±1,08 m/s; p&lt;0.05). Furthermore, in the study group lower left ventricular ejection fraction (54,7±9,2 vs 59,0± 5,72%; p&lt;0,01), lower absolute values of LV GLS (16,3±2,5 vs 19,0±3,2%, p=0,05) and lower LA strain (23,5±6,2 vs 29,5±10,8%; p&lt;0.01) were observed. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that changes in arterial stiffness related to endovascular aortic aneurysm repair are associated with worse left ventricular systolic function and left atrial performance. Elucidating their etiology and dynamics necessitates further investigation through prospective studies that account for confounding factors, such as other risk factors that may influence the outcomes of the assessed parameters.

The impact of BMI on myocardial work and left atrial strain in young overweight patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Overweight and obesity are a health problem of growing significance all over the world with increasing prevalence in both developed and developing countries. Numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the need to early treat this pathological condition. Overweight and obesity cause structural and functional changes on left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) performance, which lead to heart failure. Purpose to evaluate the impact of BMI on myocardial work parameters and left atrial strain and to early detect LV and LA performance changes in overweight patients. Methods 80 young individuals were prospectively enrolled, distinguishing between overweight patients with BMI greater than or equal to 25 to 29.9 kg/m^2 (n= 36; 45 ±11 years) and normal weight patients with BMI greater than or equal to 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m^2 (n=44; 43±9 years). All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiogram to calculate global longitudinal strain (GLS), global work index (GWI), global work efficiency (GWE), global wasted work (GWW), global constructive work (GCW) and left atrial strain. Results Overweight patients have higher BSA (1,9±0,16 vs 1,6±0,17 mq; p&amp;lt;0,0001), Diastolic Blood pressure (81±12 vs 74±10 mmHg; p = 0,01) mean arterial pressure (98±15 vs 91±11 mmHg; p = 0,01), Heart Rate (71±13 vs 70±12 bpm; p = 0,02) and Global Longitudinal Strain (−19,3% ±1,7 vs −20,3% ±1,8; p = 0,02). With respect to myocardial work parameters, in overweight patients GWE (93% vs 95%; p = 0,01) is significantly reduced, whereas GWW (132 vs 102 mmHg%; p = 0,03) is significantly increased. Left atrial reservoir (LAres) (36% vs 40%; p = 0,04) and conduit (19% vs 24%; p = 0,005) function are significantly reduced in overweight patients. BMI inversely correlates with GWE (r=-0,36; p = 0,005) and LAres (r=-0,33; p = 0,007), whereas it directly correlates with GWW (r=0,31; p = 0,006). Conclusions Overweight induces early LV and LA performance changes that can be precociously detected by myocardial work and left atrial strain, in order to better characterize individual cardiovascular risk profile.

Association of peak atrial longitudinal strain with right ventricular performance and short-term prognosis in patients with first acute coronary syndrome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Myocardial infarction remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. The abrupt elevation of left ventricular filling pressures can be backwards transmitted to the left atrium and pulmonary vascular bed leading to pulmonary oedema. Peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) is a sensitive surrogate marker of left atrial performance. Its association with right ventricular (RV) impairment and its prognostic role in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) has not been comprehensively explored. Purpose This study sought to identify the impact of PALS in RV contractile function and pulmonary artery pressures in patients presenting with first ACS and investigate its association with in-hospital mortality. Methods Three-hundred consecutive patients (N=300, STEMI=194, Non-STEMI=106) with first ACS were prospectively enrolled (mean age 61.2±11.8 years, 26% females). All patients underwent a transthoracic echocardiographic assessment within 24 hours after revascularization. The association between PALS and conventional indices of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction with RV indices was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Study outcome was in-hospital mortality. Univariable and multivariable Cox Regression analysis was performed to identify outcome predictors. To construct a multivariable model, univariately significant variables (P&amp;lt;0.005) were selected from 3 different categories (clinical variables, laboratory indices, echocardiographic indices). Due to the limited number of events, a maximum of 4 variables were introduced in the multivariable model. To further assess the incremental advantage of PALS and Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion/Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure (TAPSE/PASP) over Global Registry of Acute Coronary Event (GRACE) risk score the change in χ2 was assessed using the likelihood ratio test. Results PALS demonstrated a stronger correlation with RV contractile function and pulmonary artery pressure indices compared to mean E/e’ and E/A ratio (Table). A total of 23 (7.7%) patients died in-hospital after revascularization. In univariable Cox Regression analysis PALS was significantly associated with the outcome (HR=0.880, 95% CI=0.839–0.925, P&amp;lt;0.001). In the multivariable model after adjustment for GRACE risk score, LVEF, and white blood cells PALS retained independent association with the outcome (HR=0.828, 95% CI=0.698–0.983, P=0.031). A stepwise addition of PALS and RV/Pulmonary Artery coupling index (TAPSE/PASP) to GRACE risk score significantly improved the predictive value of the model (Figure). Conclusion PALS measured by transthoracic echocardiography within 24 hours of admission in patients with first ACS was a powerful predictor of in-hospital mortality. Progression of left ventricular damage to the left atrial and RV mechanics significantly worsens the risk of in-hospital mortality.

Sevoflurane effects on left atrial performance: a transesophageal echocardiographic study on patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting

BackgroundPatients presenting for coronary artery bypass grafting often have left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. These patients are in need for a well contracting left atrium (LA) to generate the required cardiac output. Sevoflurane affects the overall cardiac contractility. This study aimed at evaluating sevoflurane effects on left atrial performance and left ventricular diastolic function for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).ResultsOut of 40 enrolled patients, analysis was made for 31 patients. Results after exposure to one MAC sevoflurane revealed a decrease of left atrial functional area change (P = 0.001), left atrial active emptying fraction (P = 0.038), and A wave velocity by transmitral pulsed wave Doppler (P = 0.019) while left ventricular diastolic function was unaffected despite a significant decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (P = 0.008).ConclusionsSevoflurane at one MAC affected the left atrial performance without affecting left ventricular diastolic function in patients with grade I and II diastolic dysfunction undergoing CABG.Trial registrationNCT03999463.

631 THE IMPACT OF BMI ON MYOCARDIAL WORK AND LEFT ATRIAL STRAIN IN YOUNG OVERWEIGHT PATIENTS WITH PRESERVED LEFT VENTRICULAR EJECTION FRACTION

Abstract Introduction Overweight and obesity are a health problem of growing significance all over the world with increasing prevalence in both developed and developing countries. Numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the need to early treat this pathological condition. Overweight and obesity cause structural and functional changes on left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) performance, which lead to heart failure. In this context we aimed to evaluate the impact of BMI on myocardial work parameters and left atrial strain to early detect LV and LA performance changes in overweight patients. Methods 80 young individuals were prospectively enrolled, distinguishing between overweight patients with BMI greater than or equal to 25 to 29.9 kg/m^2 (n= 36; 45±11 years) and normal weight patients with BMI greater than or equal to 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m^2 (n=44; 43±9 years). All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiogram to calculate global longitudinal strain (GLS), global work index (GWI), global work efficiency (GWE), global wasted work (GWW), global constructive work (GCW) and left atrial strain. Results Overweight patients have higher BSA (1,9±0,16 vs 1,6±0,17 mq; p&amp;lt;0,0001), Diastolic Blood pressure (81±12 vs 74±10 mmHg; p= 0,01) mean arterial pressure (98±15 vs 91±11 mmHg; p = 0,01), Heart Rate (71±13 vs 70±12 bpm; p= 0,02) and Global Longitudinal Strain (-19,3% ±1,7 vs -20,3% ±1,8; p = 0,02). With respect to myocardial work parameters, in overweight patients GWE (93% vs 95%; p=0,01) is significantly reduced, whereas GWW (132 vs 102 mmHg%; p=0,03) is significantly increased. Left atrial reservoir (LAres) (36% vs 40%; p=0,04) and conduit (-19% vs -24%; p=0,005) function are significantly reduced in overweight patients. BMI inversely correlates with GWE (r=-0,36; p=0,005) and LAres (r=-0,33; p=0,007), whereas it directly correlates with GWW (r=0,31; p = 0,006). Conclusions Overweight induces early LV and LA performance changes that can be precociously detected by myocardial work and left atrial strain, in order to better characterize individual cardiovascular risk profile.

Effect of mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair on indices of left atrial performance in chronic mitral regurgitation.

Effect of transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) using MitraClip in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR) on left atrial (LA) kinetic energy (LAKE), an index of LA work, and LA strain, a measure of LA performance, have not been well defined. Patients with chronic primary or secondary 3+ or 4+ MR were analyzed pre- and post-TEER using MitraClip. LAKE was determined by echocardiography using LA stroke volume and A-wave velocity. Peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), peak atrial strain in early diastole, and peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) were obtained by speckle tracking echocardiography. Thirty-nine patients undergoing TEER with MitraClip were screened, 12 met criteria for analysis (9 primary and 3 secondary MR). Compared to pre-TEER, there was a significant increase post-TEER in LAKE (71.0±64.1vs. 177.5±167.9 dyne·cm·103 , respectively; p=.008) and Doppler transmitral A-wave velocity (87.8±41.4vs. 138.5±43.7cm/s, respectively; p<.001); LA stroke volume did not change significantly. Mitral valve mean gradient significantly increased post-TEER compared to pre-TEER (5.7±2.1vs. 3.3±2.1mmHg, respectively; p=.01). There was a trend toward decrease in PALS post-TEER compared to pre-TEER (16.2±4.8vs. 20.7±9.9%, respectively; p=.05). Peak atrial strain in early diastole significantly decreased post-TEER compared to pre-TEER (7.2±3.0vs. 14.1±7.2%; respectively, p<.001), while PACS did not significantly change (9.1±3.5vs. 6.7±5.2%, respectively; p=.07). In patients with chronic MR, LAKE increases after TEER with MitraClip driven by an increase in LA emptying velocities. Changes were also seen in LA strain with MitraClip. These procedurally induced changes due to mild mitral stenosis may have clinical implications.

Echocardiographic evaluation of left atrial performance by using left atrial appendage flow velocity

Echocardiographic evaluation of left atrial performance by using left atrial appendage flow velocity

Age and impaired left atrial performance are associated with increased atrial fibrosis in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Atrial performance assessed by strain imaging is used as a surrogate for left atrial (LA) structural remodelling. Presence of low voltage zones (LVZs) detected by three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) denotes more expressed extrapulmonary substrate potentially leading to worse outcomes following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for the treatment of AF. Purpose The current study aims to investigate the association between strain imaging parameters from echocardiography and the presence and extent of LVZs derived from LA electroanatomical mapping in patients undergoing AF ablation. Methods Seventy-eight patients (58 males, 74%) aged 59±9.48 years undergoing PVI for paroxysmal (35 patients, 49%) or persistent AF were prospectively studied. Preprocedural echocardiography included LA strain imaging assessing global LA strain (LAS) and regional strain of the basolateral region (RSLB). During the procedure, LA electroanatomical mapping during paced atrial rhythm was performed in all patients obtaining a LA voltage map. All LA maps were analysed offline using a custom-made software calculating the zone of low bipolar voltage &amp;lt;0.5 mV (LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV) and the total LA endocardial area excluding pulmonary veins antra. LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mv was expressed as an absolute value and as percentage of the whole LA area. Results Patients aged more than 65 years (N=21, 27%) demonstrated a larger area of LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV: 25.5±17.8 cm2 vs. 9.4±10.6 cm2 in those younger than 65 years, P=0.001. This corresponded to a higher proportion of the LA area demonstrating LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV in patients older than 65 years: 22.6±14.6% vs. 8.9±11.8% in those younger than 65 years, P&amp;lt;0.0001. Twenty-nine of 78 patients (37.1%) had preprocedural LAS&amp;lt;20% and 23 (29.5%) demonstrated RSLB of &amp;lt;21%. Patients with LAS &amp;lt;20% had a higher total LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV: 20.3±16.6 cm2 vs. 9.8±12.1 cm2 in patients with LAS≥20% at baseline, P=0.004. This equaled to 17.7±15.6% vs. 9.5±11.9% of total LA area, respectively (P=0.011). Patients with RSLB&amp;lt;21% also demonstrated larger areas of LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV in the LA: 21.6±17.9 cm2 vs. 10.39±11.83 cm2 in the patients with RSLB ≥21%, P=0.012. Expressed as a proportion of the whole LA area the difference remained significant: 18.8±17.1% vs. 9.9±11.6%, respectively P=0.01. Conclusion Older age and impaired LA performance assessed by LA strain imaging are associated with larger areas of LVZ&amp;lt;0.5mV possibly reflecting more expressed LA fibrotic changes in patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF. These findings might serve in the preprocedural selection of the patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): Bulgarian Society of Cardiology

Significant Association Between Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction, Left Atrial Performance and Liver Stiffness in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

PurposeThe constitutive elements of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) are linked with both non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease. Controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and vibration controlled transient elastography (VCTE), are able to detect and quantify NAFLD, while conventional and two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) is capable to identify subclinical changes in cardiac function. We wanted to evaluate whether there is any correspondence between left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction and different degrees of liver steatosis and fibrosis in MetS subjects with NAFLD.Patients and MethodsA total of 150 adult subjects having MetS and a normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function were recorded in the study, while 150 age- and sex- matched adults without MetS were enrolled as controls. NAFLD was established by VCTE and CAP. The left heart systolic and diastolic function was evaluated by conventional and 2D-ST echocardiography. Left atrial (LA) stiffness was calculated as the ratio between the E/A ratio and the LA reservoir-strain.ResultsIn univariate regression analysis, the variables associated with LV diastolic dysfunction in MetS patients were: liver steatosis grade ≥2, liver fibrosis grade ≥2, the longitudinal LA peak strain during the reservoir phase, the LA strain rate during ventricular contraction and the LA stiffness. In multivariate logistic regression, two variables were selected as independent predictors of LV diastolic dysfunction, namely the liver stiffness (P=0.0003) and the LA stiffness (P<0.0001). LA stiffness predicted subclinical LV diastolic dysfunction in MetS patients with a sensitivity of 45% and a specificity of 96% when using a cut-off value >0.38, and was significantly correlated with liver steatosis stage ≥2 and liver fibrosis stage ≥2.ConclusionThe present study confirms the association between liver stiffness, LA stiffness and LV diastolic dysfunction in MetS patients. Our study suggests that liver elastography and 2D-STE should become habitual assessments in MetS patients.

Acute change in left atrial performance in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation using AutoStrain

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): International PhD Program in Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Therapeutics CardioPaTh Background Radio-frequency catheter ablation (CA) is associated with changes of left atrial (LA) structure and function. However, the data on the accuracy of automated analysis of LA strain (LAS) are unavailable. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare automated with manual LAS analysis in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing CA during sinus rhythm. Methods We prospectively enrolled 36 consecutive patients (age: 62 ± 22 years, 33% female) with symptomatic AF and preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (≥50%) undergoing the CA during sinus rhythm. All patients underwent comprehensive echocardiography at 1-day pre-CA and at 1-day post-CA. Reservoir and contractile LAS were assessed using both the automated and the manual technique as average of segmental values in apical four-chamber (4CH) view using the onset of QRS as a reference point. Results Radio-frequency CA was associated with significant decrease in magnitude of reservoir and contractile LAS in all patients, and increase in LA end-systolic (max) and end-diastolic (min) volume index (all p &amp;lt; 0.001) (figure 1). The correlation between (semi-) automated and manual LAS assessment was excellent in all measurements (figure 2). The manual correction was needed in 7 out of 36 patients (19%). Despite this, the time needed to perform AutoStrain-derived analysis was significantly lower than the time needed for the manual LAS analysis (12 ± 3 ms vs. 40 ± 5 ms, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Moreover, in 10 randomly selected patients, the AutoStrain showed significantly lower interobserver variability than the manual LAS analysis (3.1% vs. 6.7%, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Conclusion The AutoStrain-derived LAS analysis showed a high correlation with manual LAS analysis. Moreover, the AutoStrain technique was associated with significantly shorter analysis time and lower interobserver variability compared with the manual technique. Abstract Figure.

Impaired Left Atrial Performance Resulting From Age-Related Arial Fibrillation Is Associated With Increased Fibrosis Burden: Insights From a Clinical Study Combining With an in vivo Experiment.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasingly considered an age-related degenerative disease, whose process is associated with the development of impaired left atrial (LA) performance. However, the subtle dynamic changes of LA performance in AF during aging have yet to be fully elucidated. Atrial fibrosis is a key substrate for the development of AF, but the progression of fibrosis during aging and its relationship with LA dysfunction need to be further explored.Methods: A total of 132 control individuals and 117 persistent AF patients were prospectively studied. Subjects were further stratified into three age groups (age group 1: younger than 65 years, age group 2: between 65 and 79 years old, and age group 3: older than 80 years). The two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging was carried out for analyzing the alterations in LA function underlying LA remodeling, whereas electroanatomic mapping was performed to investigate LA fibrosis burden. In animal study, aged mice and young mice served as research subjects. Echocardiography and histological staining were used to assess LA performance and fibrosis burden, respectively.Results: Echocardiography showed progressive increases in LA dimension and LA stiffness index, and progressive decreases in LA global longitudinal strain and LA strain rates with advancing age in both AF and control cohorts, which was more prominent in AF cohort. Electroanatomic mapping showed progressive decrease in mean LA voltage and progressive increases in LA surface area, low-voltage area %, and LA volume with advancing age, whereas more significant alterations were observed in AF patients. Moreover, left atrial global longitudinal strain was positively correlated with mean LA voltage, whereas LA stiffness index was negatively related to mean LA voltage. In animal experiment, increased LA size and pulmonary artery dimension as well as longer P-wave duration and more prominent LA fibrosis were found in aged mice.Conclusions: This study provides new evidence of subtle changes in structure and performance of left atrium and their association with atrial fibrosis in both AF and non-AF subjects during physiological aging. In addition, our study also provides normal values for LA structure and performance in both AF and non-AF conditions during aging. These measurements may provide an early marker for onset of AF and LA adverse remodeling.

Quantitative Differentiation of Left Atrial Performance in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Comparison Between Nonobstruction and Occult Obstruction With 4-dimensional Volume-strain.

Objective:The objective of this study was to describe the different components of left atrial (LA) dysfunction predictors in nonobstructive and occult obstructive hypertrophy cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients especially with preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, particularly using LA 4-dimensional (D) longitudinal and circumferential strains.Methods:Twenty-eight nonobstructive HCM patients and 30 occult obstructive HCM patients according to LV outflow tract gradient at rest and after exercise were prospectively enrolled. 4D echocardiographic evaluation was performed in 58 HCM patients, both nonobstructive and occult obstructive, and 38 control subjects. LA reservoir, conduit, contractile functions were performed by 4D volume-strain with volumes and longitudinal, circumferential strains.Results:Optimal correlation coefficients obtained between LV 4D mass (index) and LA 4D longitudinal/circumferential strain (r=−0.860 to 0.518, all P<0.001). Both nonobstructive and occult obstructive HCM patients had increased volumes and significantly decreased longitudinal, circumferential strain values with lower reservoir, conduit, contractile functions than the controls (all P<0.001). Occult obstructive HCM patients presented incremented volumes compared with nonobstructive ones (P<0.001 to 0.003). Lower conduit function and higher contractile function indicated with lower reservoir function revealed by circumferential strain in occult obstructive HCM patients than nonobstructive ones (P<0.001 to 0.017). Interclass correlation coefficients of intraobserver and interobserver in the LV and LA 4D value evaluations were >0.75 and >0.85, respectively.Conclusions:LA volumes were significantly increased and LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile functions were significantly impaired in HCM patients. Furthermore, different performances of LA functional analyses in nonobstruction and occult obstruction patients with 4D volume-strain echocardiography may facilitate the recognition of subtle LA dysfunctional differentiation in HCM patients.

Abstract 15160: Atrioventricular and Ventricular Functional Interdependence in the Community

Introduction: Left atrial (LA) and right ventricular (RV) performance play an integral role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of heart failure (HF). However, the alteration of atrioventricular and ventricular functional interdependence in a preclinical setting is unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between LA/RV functional remodeling and subclinical left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Methods: LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVLS) and LA reservoir strain were assessed by speckle-tracking echocardiography in 1,080 participants (600 men; 62±12 years) without cardiac disease. Results: A hundred and forty-three participants (13.2%) had an abnormal LVGLS (&gt;-18.6%). LA reservoir strain and RVLS were significantly decreased in abnormal LVGLS group compared with normal LVGLS group (both p&lt;0.001). LA and RV dysfunction (LA reservoir strain &lt; 31.4% and RVLS &gt; -19.2%) were present in 18.9% and 19.6% of participants with abnormal LVGLS, respectively (Figure). Decreased LVGLS was significantly associated with worse LA reservoir strain and RVLS (standardized β=-0.20 and 0.11 respectively, both p&lt;0.01) independent of cardiovascular risk factors, pertinent biomarkers and LV geometry and diastolic dysfunction. Conclusions: In the general population without overt cardiac disease, approximately 20% subjects with impaired LVGLS exhibited LA/RV dysfunction, and LVGLS was independently associated with both LA and RV strain. Our findings may provide valuable insights for a better understanding of HF pathophysiology and possibly preventive strategies.

Left atrial performance during exercise in endurance athletes: the impact of gender

Abstract Background High-intensity endurance training is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in male athletes while it seems to have a protective effect for the development of atrial arrhythmias in female athletes. Mechanisms underlying this fact are unknown but a differential atrial adaptation to exercise may be involved. Aim To evaluate left atrial (LA) performance during exercise in endurance athletes (EAs) of both sexes. Methods Highly-trained (&amp;gt;10 hours training/week) EAs performed a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test. LA evaluation was performed at rest and immediately after exercise. LA analysis consisted of standard and speckle-tracking assessment: atrial contractile, reservoir and conduction strain. Results 80 EAs (55% women, 34.8±5.8 years) were enrolled. Baseline LA size and functional parameters were similar in both sexes (Table 1). Compared to men, women achieved a higher predicted VO2max (Δchange+11.9%, p&amp;lt;0.01) but a similar increase of systolic blood pressure (Δ+63 vs +66%, p=0.58). Exercise induced a mild decrease in LA size but of similar amplitude for both sexes. LA strain parameters of EAs improved with exercise, but a significantly greater improvement in LA reservoir and conduit function was noted in women compared to men. In EAs with marked atrial remodelling (LA ≥35ml/m2), the same trend of greater improvement of LA reservoir and conduit function in women persisted. Conclusion In highly-trained EAs, premenopausal women have better LA function profile during exercise compared to men, even when the LA is significantly dilated. This discriminatory LA adaptation in female EAs could at least partly explain the dichotomous relationship between AF and exercise regarding sexes and warrants further studies to clarify the underlying mechanism. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Government of Spain - Plan Nacional I+D, Ministerio de Economia y Competitividad

Effects of catheter ablation on left atrial performance in different types of atrial fibrillation: a strain study

Abstract Background Atrial structural and functional changes may develop as a result of catheter ablation (CA) in patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the relation between AF recurrence and atrial performance following CA is still under debate. Our aim is to describe the long-term effects of CA on LA remodeling and its correlates to the maintenance of sinus rhythm (SR). Methods We prospectively enrolled 178 consecutive patients (age: 63±9 years, 35% females) with paroxysmal AF undergoing first-CA (67%) or redo-CA (22%), and 20 individuals (11%) with long-standing persistent AF (PAF) undergoing first CA. All patients underwent comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography at baseline and at 12-month follow-up, including the assessment of reservoir and contractile strain (LAS) using two dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in all three apical views. The study population was divided in two sub-groups according to AF recurrence during follow-up. Results During one-year follow-up, 144 (81%) patients maintained SR whereas 34 (19%) patients had AF recurrence [first-CA group 16 (13%), redo-CA group 8 (20%) and PAF group 10 (50%)]. Improvement of LAS was observed only in patients with paroxysmal and long-standing persistent AF who underwent the first CA and who remained in SR (Figure 1A, 1C). In contrast, recurrent AF was associated with absence of LAS improvement (Figure 1A, 1C). Different time course of LA performance was observed in the redo-CA group, i.e. LAS remained unchanged from baseline regardless of long-term maintenance of SR (Figure 1B). Moreover, at follow-up, no significant differences in LAS between redo-CA patients with SR versus AF were observed. Of note, in patients with long-standing persistent AF and SR, follow-up LAS increased to values observed in the redo-CA group. Conclusion LA performance following CA is strongly affected by complex interplay between extent of atrial electro-structural remodeling and CA procedure. Repeated wide CA might affects negatively LA compliance and contractility despite SR restoration. Figure 1. Reservoir and contractile LAS at Baseline and 12-month follow-up in the First-CA (1A), the Redo-CA (1B) and the long-standing persistent AF (1C) groups in patients who maintained SR versus patients who had AF recurrence. *p value &amp;lt;0.05 (baseline vs. follow-up). Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): International PhD programme in Cardiovascular Pathophysiology and Therapeutics (CardioPaTh).

1039 Time course of left atrial performance in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing radio-frequency catheter isolation of pulmonary veins

Abstract Background Radio-frequency catheter isolation of pulmonary veins (RF-PVI) is associated with changes of left atrial (LA) structure and function. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the long-term impact of successful RF-PVI on the LA mechanics. The aim of the current study was to assess the time course of LA performance in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (pAF) undergoing RF-PVI. Methods The study population included 24 consecutive patients (age:62 ± 21 years; 66% male) with symptomatic pAF and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (≥50%) undergoing the first RF-PVI and 23 healthy controls. A comprehensive echocardiographic examination was performed one day before and 1 day, 3- and 12- months after RF-PVI. The reservoir, conduit and contractile LA strain (LAS), strain rate (LASR) and mechanical dispersion (LAMD) were assessed using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in apical views. Results At baseline, patients with pAF showed a significant reduction of all three components of LAS and LASR compared with controls (all p &amp;lt; 0.01). At 1 day after RF-PVI, LAS and LASR showed significant decrease compared with baseline (all p &amp;lt; 0.05) (figure). At 3-month follow up, LAS and LASR recovered to baseline values while LAMD showed a significant improvement (77ms vs 58ms, p = 0.003). At 12-month follow up, both reservoir and contractile LAS showed further improvement compared to 3-month values (31% vs 27%, and 15% vs 13%, both p &amp;lt; 0.05). Yet, even after 12 months, LAS values remained significantly lower compared with healthy controls (p &amp;lt; 0.05). LA emptying fraction was restored and LA end-systolic (max) and end-diastolic (min) volume index showed a significant decrease compared to baseline and 3-month values (all p &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusion Successful RF-PVI is associated with acute decrease in LAS, followed by recovery to baseline values within 3 months and further improvement during one year. Reservoir and contractile LAS appears to be the most clinically useful indices to monitor LA performance in patients with pAF undergoing RF-PVI. Figure Time course of LA reservoir and contractile strain, LA max and min volume index, and LA mechanical dispersion (Baseline, 1-day FUP, 3- and 12-month FUP). Abstract 1039 Figure.

P3731The improvement in left atrial strain among patients undergoing percutaneous left atrial appendage closure

Abstract Background Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is being established as an alternative option for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with high bleeding risk. Few studies reported the influence of percutaneous LAAC on left atrial (LA) performance, but most of the studies demonstrated no remarkable changes in their parameters after the procedure. Method The study included 95 patients (age: 75±6.7 years, 67% male) whom underwent percutaneous LAAC in a single center between September 2012 and November 2018. LA strain was evaluated at three different time intervals by transesophageal echocardiography (baseline, 45 days and 180 days after procedure). All data were analyzed using a dedicated. 70 patients had atrial fibrillation whereas 25 were in sinus rhythm. Analysis was performed for peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) from segment of lateral wall in mid-esophageal 4 chamber view. The validity of lateral wall left atrial analysis was recently shown by our group. PACS was obtained in patients with sinus rhythm during exams. Results Compared to baseline, PALS was significantly increased after 45 days (12.4±8.4% vs 16.0±10.7%, p=0.001) and remained stable after 180 days (13.8±9.0% vs 17.0±12.4%, p=0.098). Even in only patients with atrial fibrillation during exams, it was increased (10.8±7.7% vs 13.4±7.1%, p=0.012 and 8.5±5.1% vs 13.9±8.1%, p=0.014). Similarly, compared with the baseline, PACS was significantly increased after 45 days and 180 days (5.8±3.9% vs 10.6±7.6%, p=0.001 and 4.5±2.6% vs 7.9±3.1%, p=0.036). The Changes in PALS and PACS Conclusion Our study has demonstrated for the first time the improvement in LA strain following LAAC within 45 days of implantation by transesophageal echocardiography and these values were maintained at least for 6 months. Further appraisal is warranted for confirmation of these preliminary findings.

Alteration of Cardiac Performance and Serum B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Level in Healthy Aging

BackgroundThe impact of aging on cardiac function is not fully elucidated. Speckle-tracking echocardiography can unmask subclinical cardiac dysfunction. ObjectivesThis study investigated the impact of healthy aging on left ventricular (LV), right ventricular (RV), and left atrial (LA) performance and their relationship with serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels in a sample of the general population without prevalent cardiovascular risk factors and structural heart disease. MethodsSpeckle-tracking echocardiography was performed to assess LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), RV free wall strain, and LA phasic strain in 481 normal weight healthy participants who underwent extensive cardiovascular examination. Elevated BNP was defined as BNP >37.82 pg/ml for men and >50.86 pg/ml for women, which was the 90th percentile of BNP value distribution in the study population. ResultsMean age was 60 ± 12 years (range: 24 to 86 years), and 46% of the participants were men. The earliest alteration of age-related cardiac performance was observed in LA reservoir and conduit strain starting from decade 5, followed by elevated E/e′ from decade 6. LVGLS decreased starting from decade 7, whereas there were no significant differences in RV strain, LV ejection fraction, or LV mass index across the decades. In the multivariable linear regression analyses, age was an independent predictor of decreased LVGLS (standardized β = 0.21; p < 0.001) and decreased LA phasic strain (standardized β = −0.40 and −0.61 for reservoir and conduit strain; both p < 0.001). Age and LA strain were significantly associated with elevated BNP values (adjusted odds ratios: 1.10 and 0.93; both p < 0.05, respectively), independent of ventricular morphology and function. ConclusionsDecreases in LA reservoir and conduit strain are the earliest markers of age-related cardiac remodeling, and LA reservoir strain is an independent predictor of elevated serum BNP level, with both possibly being markers of increased risk of heart failure in older adults.

Left Atrial Function with MRI Enables Prediction of Cardiovascular Events after Myocardial Infarction: Insights from the AIDA STEMI and TATORT NSTEMI Trials.

Background The role of left atrial (LA) performance in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains controversial. Cardiac MRI myocardial feature tracking (hereafter, MRI-FT) is a method used to quantify myocardial function that enables reliable assessment of atrial function. Purpose To assess the relationship between LA function assessed with MRI-FT and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) after AMI. Materials and Methods This secondary analysis of two prospective multicenter cardiac MRI studies (AIDA STEMI [NCT00712101] and TATORT NSTEMI [NCT01612312]) included 1235 study participants with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (n = 795) or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (n = 440) between July 2008 and June 2013. All study participants underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. MRI-FT analyses were performed in a core laboratory by researchers blinded to clinical status to determine LA performance using LA reservoir function peak systolic strain (εs), LA conduit strain (εe), and LA booster pump function active strain (εa). The relationship of LA performance to a MACE within 12 months after AMI was evaluated by using Cox proportional hazards models and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results Study participants with MACE had worse LA performance parameters compared with study participants without MACE (εs = 21.2% vs 16.2%, εe = 8.8% vs 6.9%, εa = 11.8% vs 10%; P < .001 for all). All atrial parameters were strongly associated with MACE (hazard ratio [HR], εs = 0.9, εe = 0.88, εa = 0.89; P < .001 for all). For εs, a cutoff of 18.8% was identified as the only independent atrial parameter with which to predict MACE after accounting for confounders and established prognostic markers in adjusted analysis (HR, 0.95; P = .02). The εs yielded incremental prognostic value above left ventricular ejection fraction, global longitudinal strain, microvascular obstruction, and infarct size (AUC comparisons, P < .04 for all). Conclusion Feature tracking of cardiac MRI to derive left atrial peak reservoir strain provided incremental prognostic value for major adverse cardiovascular events prediction versus established cardiac risk factors after acute myocardial infarction. © RSNA, 2019 Online supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Almeida in this issue.