Left Atrial Phasic Function Research Articles

Association of arterial stiffness with left atrial structure and phasic function: a community-based cohort study.

Increased arterial stiffness is currently recognized as an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation, although the pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association of arterial stiffness with left atrial (LA) volume and phasic function in a community-based cohort. We included 1156 participants without overt cardiovascular disease who underwent extensive cardiovascular examination. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI). Speckle-tracking echocardiography was employed to evaluate LA phasic function including reservoir, conduit, and pump strain as well as left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS). CAVI was negatively correlated with reservoir and conduit strain (r = -0.37 and -0.45, both P < 0.001), whereas weakly, but positively correlated with LA volume index and pump strain (r = 0.12 and 0.09, both P < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, CAVI was significantly associated with reservoir and conduit strain independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and LV morphology and function including LVGLS (standardized β = -0.22 and -0.27, respectively, both P < 0.001), whereas there was no independent association with LA volume index and pump strain. In the categorical analysis, the abnormal CAVI (≥9.0) carried the significant risk of impaired reservoir and conduit strain (adjusted odds ratio = 2.61 and 3.73 vs. normal CAVI, both P < 0.01) in a fully adjusted model including laboratory and echocardiographic parameters. Arterial stiffness was independently associated with LA phasic function, even in the absence of overt cardiovascular disease, which may explain the higher incidence of atrial fibrillation in individuals with increased arterial stiffness.

Left Atrial Phasic Function in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Assessed by Feature Tracking CMR Imaging

Purposes: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients are associated with left atrial (LA) function abnormalities. This study aimed to assess LA phasic function in T2DM patients using FT-CMR imaging. Materials and methods: One hundred consecutive Chinese T2DM patients and 20 controls underwent CMR imaging were prospectively enrolled. LA phasic function was determined by volumetric and strain analysis. Total strain (εs) and peak positive strain rate (SRs), passive strain (εe) and peak early negative strain rate (SRe), active strain (εa) and peak late negative strain rate (SRa) were measured reflecting LA reservoir, conduit, and pump function, respectively. Results: LA reservoir, conduit function were decreased in T2DM, while LA pump function were only numerically higher than controls regardless of LA size. The ROC analysis showed superiority of strain parameters (AUC of εs: 0.852, εe: 0.802, p < 0.001 for both) than traditional LAEF parameters (AUC of total LAEF: 0.671, p = 0.014; passive LAEF: 0.642, p = 0.042) to differentiate T2DM from controls. Multivariate regression analysis showed age was independent determinant of εs and εe, DM duration and LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) were independent determinants of εe and εa. Conclusions: Aside from LA pump function, LA reservoir and conduit function determined on FT-CMR are impaired in T2DM patients compared with controls regardless of LA size. Strain parameters are superior in differentiating T2DM from controls. LA phasic function evaluated using FT-CMR may add important information in clinical decisions.

Incremental value of three-dimensional echocardiography for evaluating left atrial function in patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon: a case control study

BackgroundCoronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP) involves the delayed opacification of the coronary distal vessel, in the absence of an obstructive lesion in the epicardial coronary artery during angiography. Since the link between left atrial (LA) function and decreased left ventricular function is still unclear, we evaluated LA function using real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) in patients with CSFP, and subsequently determined the incremental value of RT3DE.MethodsThis study enrolled 60 patients with CSFP and 45 control subjects. CSFP was diagnosed based on thrombolysis in myocardial infarction frame count (TFC). The LA phasic volume and function was evaluated by both two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) and RT3DE.ResultsThe LA maximal volume (Volmax), pre-systolic volume (Volp), and minimal volume (Volmin) increased, but LA total and active ejection fraction decreased in patients with CSFP. Based on our results, Volmax, Volp, Volmin, and LA total and active ejection fraction correlated with TFC, and with the number of arteries involved. The LA total ejection fraction by RT3DE was the only independent predictor for CSFP (odds ratio, 0.64 [95% confidence interval, 0.49–0.83]; P = 0.001). Also, the LA total ejection fraction by RT3DE demonstrated good predictive power for CSFP, with a cut-off value of 54.15% (area under curve, 0.85; sensitivity, 84%; specificity, 83%).ConclusionsThe LA reservoir and contractile function decreased in the patients with CSFP and correlated with coronary flow rate and with the number of arteries involved. The LA total ejection fraction by RT3DE can independently predict CSFP, and RT3DE demonstrated incremental value for evaluating LA phasic function in the patients with CSFP compared to 2DE.

P1772 Assesment of total atrial conduction time in patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia with and without drug-induced type 1 Brugada pattern and control subjects

Abstract Background Most forms of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) are created by reentry between 2 (or more) atrial connections to the AV node. There is a high prevalence of drug-induced type 1 Brugada ECG pattern (DI-Type1-BrP) among patients with AVNRT. Atrial vulnerability and structural remodeling that leads to reentrant circuits in AVNRT is largely unknown. PA-TDI interval assessed by tissue Doppler imaging is a useful technique to determine total atrial conduction time (TACT) which reflects atrial remodeling and arrhythmic substrate. Purpose In this prospective study, we aimed to assess TACT in patients with AVNRT with and without DI-Type1-BrP and control subjects. Methods Study population consisted of 62 consecutive patients (age 44 ± 12 years; 74% women) undergoing electrophysiological study and ablation for symptomatic, drug-resistant AVNRT and 42 age and sex matched control subjects. All patients and control subjects underwent ajmaline challenge test and tissue Doppler imaging. Results A DI-Type1-BrP was uncovered in 24 of 62 patients with AVNRT (38.7%). PA-TDI interval was longer in patients with AVNRT with or without DI-Type1-BrP compared to control subjects (124 ± 12 ms vs 119 ± 14 ms vs 105 ± 11 ms; P &amp;lt; 0.001, respectively). PA-TDI interval was similar in patients with AVNRT with or without DI-Type1-BrP (124 ± 12 ms vs 119 ± 14 ms; P = NS, respectively). PA-TDI interval was significantly correlated with P-wave duration on the surface ECG (r = 0.23; P = 0.02). Left atrial volume index and left atrial phasic functions were similar in patients with AVNRT with or without DI-Type1-BrP and control subjects. Conclusion TACT is prolonged in patients with AVNRT. Further studies are needed to determine the underlying factor(s) such as DI-Type1-BrP that leads to prolonged atrial conduction time.

335 Effects of Healthy Aging on Left Atrial Phasic Function Using Strain Analysis

Left atrial size and function are increasingly recognised as functional and prognostic biomarkers. Age related changes in phasic LA volumes and function are associated with age related diastolic dysfunction. We hypothesised that there is an age-related decline in diastolic function with compensatory changes in LA strain, with alterations in phasic LA function. 102 healthy volunteers had a TTE and phasic LA volumes and 2D LA strain measurements performed. LAmax volumes were similar across all ages (p=1.0). LAmin volume was significantly higher in group ‘c’ vs groups ‘a’ and ‘b’ (p<0.001 and p=0.042, respectively). LAPreP volume was significantly increased between each age bracket (p<0.01 for all). LA reservoir strain was significantly reduced in group ‘c’ vs groups ‘a’ and ‘b’ (p=0.003 and p=0.018, respectively). LA conduit strain progressively declined between each age bracket (p<0.015), with LA contractile strain increasing in groups ‘b’ and ‘c’ vs group ‘a’ (p=0.006 and p<0.001, respectively). LA conduit strain is altered early with a compensatory increase in LA contractile strain, whilst LA reservoir strain shows progressive reduction with increasing age. These phasic functional changes are reflected by an early increase in LAPreP volume and subsequent increase in LAmin.Tabled 1Age (yrs)LAmax (ml/m2)LAmin (ml/m2)LAPreP (ml/m2)LA reservoir strain (%)LA conduit strain (%)LA contractile strain (%)18-30(a)25.2±7.310.3±3.2113.5±3.61,236.8±5.8123.4±5.71,213.4±2.71,231-50(b)26.9±4.711.7±2.6316.6±3.7335.5±6.2319.4±5.5316.1±3.751+(c)27.3±6.513.6±419.3±4.631.7±6.614.6±5.116.9±3.41(a) vs (c) p<0.05; 2(a) vs (b) p<0.05; 3(b) vs (c) p<0.05 Open table in a new tab

P374 Prediction of an adverse cardiovascular response to physical exercise from resting echocardiography imaging in young adults with suboptimal blood pressure

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements British Heart Foundation (BHF) grants (PG/13/58/30397) Background Young adults with mildly elevated blood pressure are less likely to engage with physical activity. This may be because early hypertension alters myocardial response to moderate exercise, leading to greater perceived exertion and lower levels of enjoyment. As atrial and ventricular function are closely coupled we investigated whether subclinical atrial changes at rest may identify this myocardial response. Purpose To identify whether subclinical changes in left atrial function at rest predict response to exercise by performing left atrial deep-phenotyping in a cohort of young adults with a range of blood pressures. Methods Seventy-one full-term born young adults (25.25 ± 5.13 years) were enrolled in the Young Adult Cardiovascular Health sTudy (YACHT) to undergo baseline clinical and cardiovascular phenotyping including detailed blood pressure measurement. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing combined with echocardiography imaging was performed to assess the myocardial response to physical exercise at 40%, 60% and 80% of peak exercise load for all participants. Left ventricular ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain were measured from an apical four chamber view at each exercise load, and resting left atrial phasic function was assessed by conventional and speckle tracking echocardiography from apical four and two chamber views (figure 1). Results In this young cohort with a range of blood pressure (120.9 ± 12.96/70.85 ± 9.78 mmHg), resting left atrial reservoir and conduit function, but not left atrial structural measures, showed good correlation with left ventricular ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain during 40%, 60% and 80% of peak exercise. The association between resting left atrial conduit with left ventricular deformation at 60% of peak exercise intensity remained significant when adjusted for age, sex and mean arterial pressure (P = 0.007). Conclusion Left atrial phasic function at rest predicts left ventricular responses to physical exercise in this cohort of young adults, which may relate to early subclinical left atrial remodelling in early hypertension. These findings require validation in other cohorts and investigation of whether this exercise limitation can be overcome in young hypertensives. Abstract P374 Figure 1

P1358 New insights into cardiac dysfunction assessed by left atrial function in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus

Abstract BACKGROUND There have been many reports of heart failure due to diabetic cardiomyopathy and decreased left ventricular (LV) function with increasing age in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Recently, although left atrial (LA) function has been occasionally reported to be a more useful prognostic indicator than LV function in acquired heart diseases, LA function in patients with T1DM has not yet been studied. PURPOSE To investigate LA dysfunction in patients with T1DM. METHODS Fifty patients with T1DM were recruited (age, 5–41 years). We excluded patients who had a history of heart disease, hypertension, and those taking cardioprotective agents. The patients and 50 age-matched controls were classified into 3 age groups (D1, C1, 5–14 years; D2, C2, 15–29 years; D3, C3, 30–41 years). The LA phasic function serving as the reservoir, conduit, and pump strains; the LA strain rate (SR) in the systole, early diastole, and late diastole; and the LV global longitudinal strain (LV-LS) as determined via 2-dimensional speckle tracking imaging were measured from the apical four- and two-chamber views. We also calculated the LA stiffness index as the ratio of E/e’ to the LA reservoir strain. RESULTS There was no significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction in each age group. The LA reservoir strains in D2 and D3 were significantly lower than those in C2 (40.8 ± 5.7% vs. 47.2 ± 5.5%, p = 0.005) and C3 (39.2 ± 5.5% vs. 47.3 ± 5.7%, p = 0.004), respectively. The LA conduit strain in D2 was significantly lower than that in C2 (28.9 ± 5.8% vs. 35.0 ± 5.0%, p = 0.006). The LA pump strain and the three phases of LA SR were not significantly different among the age groups. The LA stiffness index in D3 increased significantly compared to that in N3 (0.18 ± 0.05 vs. 0.13 ± 0.01, p &amp;lt;0.001). The LV-LS in D2 and D3 was significantly lower than that in C2 (-15.7 ± 1.7% vs. -18.7 ± 2.1%, p &amp;lt;0.001) and C3 (-15.3 ± 1.8% vs. -19.3 ± 2.0%, p &amp;lt;0.001), respectively. The LA reservoir strain significantly correlated with LV-LS (r = -0.468, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Both the LA reservoir strain and LV-LS in patients with T1DM decreased significantly (p = 0.028, p &amp;lt; 0.042, respectively) and correlated with increasing age (r = -0.323, r = 0.286, respectively). The LV stiffness index did not correlate with age or LV-LS. CONCLUSIONS The LA reservoir strain might be as useful as LV-LS as an early marker of cardiac dysfunction in patients with T1DM. The correlation coefficient between the LA reservoir strain and LV-LS was not strong. Therefore, although LV-LS might affect the LA reservoir strain, it might represent other aspects of cardiac dysfunction. The increase of LA stiffness might represent the changes in LA wall properties and could be another useful indicator of cardiac dysfunction during long-term follow-ups, which is independent of LV-LS. Overall, these findings provide new insights into cardiac dysfunction in patients with T1DM.

Clinical implication of disturbed left atrial phasic functions in the heterogeneous population associated with hypertension or atrial fibrillation

BackgroundTo evaluate left atrial (LA) phasic functions in patients with hypertension and/or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and its clinical significance.MethodsLA strain was studied in 77 patients (25 hypertension, 24 lone AF, and 28 with both hypertension and PAF) and 28 controls using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D STE). The following indexes during atrial reservoir, conduit and pump phase were analyzed respectively: (1) peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and strain rate (PALSR), (2) the standard deviation of time to PALS and PALSR of all LA segments (TpS-SD% and TpSR-SD%).ResultsCompared with controls, PALSres, PALScond and PALSRcond were significantly reduced in patients with isolated hypertension (all P < 0.01) but no significant differences were observed in PALSpump, PALSRpump and TpSpump-SD% between them (all P > 0.05). PALSpump, PALSRpump and PALSRres were significantly lower in patients with both hypertension and PAF than in those with isolated hypertension (all P < 0.05). PALS and PALSR were significantly decreased, and TpS-SD% was significantly increased during each phase in lone AF patients than in controls (all P < 0.05), and PALSRpump was further depressed in patients with both hypertension and PAF (P = 0.029). PALSRcond ≤ 1.475 s− 1 combined with TpSpump-SD% ≥ 3.25% (sensitivity, 85%; specificity, 71%; AUC = 0.845, P < 0.001) could distinguish lone AF from healthy subjects effectively, while in hypertensive patients, PALSpump ≤ 14.2% was found to be an independent differentiator for occurrence of AF or not with sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 84% (AUC = 0.838, P < 0.001). LAVI≥29.3 mL/m2 was an independent characteristic for reflecting different LA remodeling in lone AF or hypertension with AF.ConclusionsThe impairment of LA phasic functions was varied in patients with hypertension and/or AF. The disturbed LA phasic functions were proved to have independent abilities of differential diagnosis in this heterogeneous population associated with hypertension or AF.

Left Atrial Phasic Function in Patients with Hypertension and Recurrent Atrial Fibrillation: Gender Differences of the Relationship with Diastolic Dysfunction and Central Aortic Pressure

Aim. To evaluate gender-related differences of left atrial (LA) phasic function and structural remodeling in conjunction with the parameters of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction and central aortic pressure in patients with hypertension and recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF).Material and methods. The comparative study included 30 men and 37 women with non-valvular AF, hypertension and LV hypertrophy. Conventional echocardiographic measures were extended with LA measures, including its volume in three phases, LAemptying fraction (LAEF), passive and active ejection fraction. The parameters of central aortic pressure were estimated by applanation tonometry method.Results. No difference was observed between LA and LV structural parameters in men and women. However, in women LAEF (39 [28;50] vs 50 [42;55]%; p=0.02) and E/E’(9.7 [7.8;12] vs 7.1 [5.6;8.6]; p=0.001) were worse than in men. Active LA ejection fraction was higher in women (31 [21;42] vs 24 [19;31]%; p=0.04), whereas passive one – in men (12 [10;14] vs 33 [23;38]%; p&lt;0.001), respectively. Men and women had comparable heart rate (HR), central and peripheral systolic and diastolic pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV), but women had higher augmentation index (AI) values [33 [28;39] vs 23 [21;28]%; p&lt;0.001], even adjusted by HR (AI 75) (34 [27;39] vs 26 [20;29]%; p&lt;0.001). Only in men PWV weakly correlated with AI 75 (r=0.44; p=0.02 versus r=-0.11; p=0.51, respectively for men and women; intergroup differences: z=2.26; p=0.012). In a multivariate regression analysis in men LAEF was significantly associated with height, weight, E’, E/E’ and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), whereas in women – with E’ and AI 75.Conclusion. Patients of different genders with recurrent AF and hypertension have comparable LA structuralremodeling. However, women characterized by a more pronounced decrease in LAEF and impaired LV diastolic function than men. In women as distinct from men LV filling is predominantly due to LA systole. In a multivariate regression analysis in men LAEF was significantly associated with height, weight, E’, E/E’ and GFR, whereas in women – with E’ and AI 75.

2140Association of arterial stiffness with left atrial structure and phasic function: a community-based cohort study

Abstract Background Increased arterial stiffness is recognized as an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation, although the pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. Cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is emerging as an important tool to assess arterial stiffness noninvasively which is derived from the concept of stiffness β index and is less dependent on blood pressure at the time of measurement than pulse wave velocity. Purpose This study aimed to investigate the association of arterial stiffness with left atrial (LA) volume and phasic function in a community-based cohort. Methods We included 1,156 participants without overt cardiovascular disease who underwent extensive cardiovascular examination. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by CAVI. Speckle-tracking echocardiography was employed to evaluate LA phasic function including reservoir, conduit and pump strain as well as left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS). Results CAVI was negatively correlated with reservoir and conduit strain (r=−0.37 and −0.45, both p&lt;0.001; Figure), whereas weakly, but positively correlated with LA volume index and pump strain (r=0.12 and 0.09, both p&lt;0.01). In multivariable analysis, CAVI was significantly associated with reservoir and conduit strain independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, pertinent laboratory parameters and LV morphology and function including LVGLS (standardized β=−0.22 and −0.26, respectively, both p&lt;0.001), whereas there was no independent association with LA volume index and pump strain. In the categorical analysis, the abnormal CAVI (≥9.0) carried the significant risk of impaired reservoir (&lt;31.4%) and conduit (&lt;12.4%) strain (adjusted odds ratio = 2.63 and 3.71 vs. normal CAVI, both p&lt;0.01) in a fully-adjusted model including laboratory and echocardiographic parameters. Figure 1 Conclusion Arterial stiffness was independently associated with LA reservoir and conduit function, even in the absence of overt cardiovascular disease. This association may explain the higher incidence of atrial fibrillation in individuals with increased arterial stiffness.

P605Correlation of left atrial phasic transport function and arrhythmogenic substrate in patients with atrial fibrillation: cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking and bipolar voltage mapping

Abstract Background Bipolar voltage mapping is a widely accepted approach to identify areas of arrhythmogenic substrate in patients presenting for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. However, until now little is known about the correlation of left atrial (LA) bipolar voltage distribution and LA transport function. Purpose To study the impact of LA low voltage zones (LVZ) on LA transport function. Methods 107 consecutive patients presenting for ablation of symptomatic AF (34 paroxysmal AF, 73 persistent AF) were prospectively enrolled. Each patient underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) within 24 hours prior to the ablation procedure. 59 patients were in sinus rhythm (SR) and 48 in AF. LA phasic indexed volumes (LAVi) and ejection fractions were calculated using biplane area length formula. In addition LA phasic strains and strain rates were analyzed using dedicated software (Figure 1A &amp; B). LA bipolar voltage mapping was performed prior to beginning of ablation in sinus rhythm using a 3-dimensional mapping system and LVZ were defined as areas of bipolar voltage &lt;0.5mV. Results LVZ were present in 47 patients (23 in SR). The area of LVZ was 14.6cm2 (5.3–34.0). For patients in AF at the time of CMR only elevated minimal and maximal LAVi (p=0.001 and p=0.002 respectively) but no LA functional parameter was predictive for the occurrence of LVZ. In contrast for patients in SR all LA phasic volumes (endsystolic, pre atrial contraction and enddiastolic LAVi) and LA function parameters (passive, active and total ejection fraction (EF), reservoir, conduit and booster pump strains and strain rates) were predictive for the occurrence of LVZ. After clustered and pooled multivariate logistic regression only impaired booster pump strain rate was still predictive for occurrence of LVZ (OR 0.974, 95% CI 0.950–0.998, p=0.036). In addition Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong link between LA booster pump functional parameters and cm2 expansion of LVZ areas: LA active EF, LA booster pump strain and SR (r=−0.42, p=0.044; r=−0.47, p=0.024; r=−0.65, p=0.001 [Figure 1C] respectively). Conclusion For patients in SR LA transport function is closely linked to the occurrence of LA LVZ and outperforms LA volumetric measurements for the prediction of LA LVZ. Furthermore LA booster pump function parameters show robust correlation to the extension of LA LVZ.

P2457Left atrial strain parameters predict clinical outcomes in patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF

Abstract Background Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) are conditions sharing similar diagnostic criteria and symptoms. Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction has often been considered central to the pathophysiology of both, as determined by current conventional echocardiographic measures of elevated filling pressure and/or an increased in left atrial (LA) volume. However, the independent prognostic importance of LA function, beyond clinical predictors and LV features, in those groups remains unclear. Aims To evaluate the prognostic value of LA function measured by speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with new diagnosis of HFpEF and HFmrEF. Methods A total of 171 consecutive patients diagnosed with HFpEF with an Ejection Fraction (EF) ≥50%, or HFmrEF with an EF of 40–49% were prospectively enrolled and followed up. Follow-up was completed in 134 patients with HFpEF (n=100) and HFmrEF (n=34) for a median period of 57 months. Baseline characteristic and comorbidities were recorded, as well as conventional resting echocardiographic parameters of systolic and diastolic function. Left atrial phasic function was analysed using 2D-Specle Tracking. Peak-atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and peak-atrial contraction strain (PACS) were measured, reflecting LA reservoir and pump function respectively. We looked at the relationship of traditional parameters of systolic and diastolic function and LA strain, with the following cardiovascular (CV) events: acute coronary syndromes, new atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular events, HF-related admissions and cardiac deaths. Results During a median follow up period of 57 months (range 11.10), of 134 patients, 42 (31%) had at least one CV event, 10 (8%) out of whom had at least one HF-related hospitalization and 5 (4%) had cardiac death. 92 patients (69%) remained event-free. In univariate analysis, lower PALS and PACS were associated with increased risk for the composite endpoint of all CV-events (PALS OR=0.92 p&lt;0.01 and PACS OR=0.92 p&lt;0.05), but only PALS predicted HF admissions (PALS OR=0.86 p&lt;0.05). In multivariate analysis after adjusting for LV EF, E/e' and LAVi, PALS remained significant at predicting CV-events (OR=0.91 p&lt;0.05) and HF admissions (OR=0.85 p&lt;0.05), but PACS did not. Amongst all echocardiographic parameters measured, PALS had the greatest Area Under the Curve at Receiver Operating Characteristics analysis (AUC=0.78 p&lt;0.05) and a PALS value of &lt;23% best predicted future HF-related admissions (sensitivity 0.9, specificity 0.6). Conclusion LA dysfunction in HFpEF and HFmrEF is associated with a higher risk of CV events and HF hospitalizations. The association of LA strain with HF hospitalization remained significant after adjustment for systolic and diastolic parameters.

P660The effect of hypertension and metabolic syndrome on left atrial function in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation

Abstract Background Hypertension and metabolic risk factors are associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure. Previous studies assessing the efficacy of catheter ablation in patients with metabolic syndrome have shown conflicting data. Purpose We thought to assess the impact of hypertension and other metabolic risk factors on left atrial (LA) phasic function in patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing the first catheter ablation. Methods We prospectively enrolled 112 consecutive patients (age: 63±21 years; 32% female) with symptomatic paroxysmal AF and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (≥50%) undergoing the first catheter ablation during sinus rhythm, and 23 healthy controls. Patients with valvular AF or in AF at the time of ablation were excluded. All patients underwent comprehensive echocardiography at one day pre and at one day post ablation, and after three months. The LA reservoir, conduit and contractile strain and strain rate (SR) were assessed using the two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography as average of segmental values in apical views. Results A total of 51 (45.5%) patients had history of treated hypertension while 61 (54.5%) patients had normal arterial blood pressure, and 27 (24.1%) patients of hypertensive group and 17 (15.1%) patients of normotensive group have dyslipidemia and/or diabetes. All groups of patients had been adjusted by age and sex. Pre-ablation, hypertensive patients with metabolic risk factors showed significantly lower magnitude of reservoir and contractile strain and SR compared with other groups of patients (all p&lt;0.05). Hypertensive patients compared with normotensive patients had significantly increase in LA volume index (39±1% vs. 34±7%, p: 0.01) and decrease in LA emptying fraction (49.5±11% vs. 54.8±9.8%, p: 0.02). Post-ablation, LA strain and SR significantly decreased in all patients regardless of the history of hypertension or other metabolic risk factors (all p&lt;0.05). At three-month follow-up, LA strain and SR showed almost complete recovery to pre-ablation values in both groups of patients. Yet, LA function in groups of patients with metabolic risk factors remained lower compared with individuals without risk factors. Of note, hypertensive individuals showed similar improvement of LA contractile function to normotensive patients (p: 0.4) but LA reservoir function remained to be lower (p&lt;0.05) (figure 1,2). The intra- and the inter-observer variability for the LAS and LASR assessment were below 5% and significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) than that of the conventional LA indices. Conclusion Both reservoir and contractile LA strain are simultaneously affected by dyslipidemia and/or diabetes. LA reservoir function is affected earlier in hypertensive patients than contractile function. Reservoir LA strain appears to be the most useful parameter to monitor LA function in hypertensive patients with/without metabolic risk factors.

P4507Left atrial conduit function modulates functional capacity in heart failure patients acting through the pulsatile component of right ventricular afterload

Abstract Background It has been suggested that left atrial (LA) characteristics modulate the functional capacity in heart failure (HF) patients through the impact that LA cavity exerts on the pulmonary circulation and the pulsatile component of right ventricular (RV) afterload, as represented by pulmonary arterial compliance (PAC). Purpose Thus, we hypothesized that, in a HF patients' population, a larger relative contribution of LA phasic conduit function (PCF) to the left ventricular (LV) stroke volume would be associated with a heavier right ventricular hemodynamic burden and a reduced functional capacity. Methods 60 sinus rhythm HF subjects (42 males, 67±11 years, ejection fraction [EF] 39±11%, range 20% - 62%) underwent 6 minute walking test (6MWT) and routine transthoracic echocardiography, plus real time 3D acquisitions analyzed with a dedicated echo software package. LV ejection fraction (EF) was obtained from 3D echo acquisitions. LV diastolic dysfunction (DD) was assessed according to current guidelines. Computation of PCF was made by simultaneous gathering real time 3D multibeats (6 cycles) LA and LV volumes, using the formula: PCF(time) = [LV(time) − LV minimum] − [LA maximum − LA(time)] as proposed by Bowman &amp; Kovacs (2004), with PCF expressed as % of LV stroke volume. Atrioventricular compliance (Cn) was also assessed, as proposed by Flachskampf et al. (1992): 1270*(mitral valve area/E wave downslope) and expressed in ml/mmHg. Finally, PAC was obtained as the ratio between RV stroke volume (pulmonary velocity time integral*pulmonary valve annulus area measured from the RV outflow tract diameter) and pulse pressure (obtained from pulmonary and tricuspid regurgitant envelopes) and expressed in ml/mmHg. Results Maximal LA and LV volumes averaged 69±21 ml and 147±47 ml, respectively. The mean value of PCF was 33±12% (range 7% - 58%). Mean 6MWT was 397±162 m. Mean PAC was (3.1±1.1 ml/mmHg). DD grade I, II and III were detected in 38 (63%), 18 (30%) and 4 (7%) of the patients' population, respectively. PCF was independent of LA or LV volumes and EF, but showed a strong direct relation with DD (r=0.62; p&lt;0.0001) and a relevant inverse dependence on Cn (r=−0.48; p=0.0001). For a comparable Cn, dividing patients into tertiles according to 6MWT, it was clear that highest PCF was significantly associated with lowest functional capacity (ANCOVA, figure left). Similarly, dividing patients into tertiles according to PAC, it emerges that highest PCF is significantly associated with most deranged PAC (ANCOVA, figure right), suggesting outmost RV hemodynamic burden. Conclusion PCF is an important parameter to be quantified in HF patients that is dependent on global left heart compliance, being affected by DD, but not LV EF. Furthermore, at a given Cn, PCF is increased in HF patients with lowest functional capacity, likely because RV pulsatile afterload is highest in these subjects.

Is there association between left atrial function and functional capacity in patients with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes?

We sought to investigate the relationship between phasic left atrial function (LA) and functional capacity in the patients with type 2 diabetes (DM). This cross-sectional investigation included 72 controls and 64 uncomplicated DM subjects. All participants underwent echocardiographic examination and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Total and passive LA emptying fractions (EF), demonstrating LA reservoir and conduit function, were significantly lower in DM patients than in controls. Active LA EF, the parameter of LA booster pump function, was similar between DM and controls. Total and positive LA strains, corresponding with reservoir and conduit function, were also significantly reduced in DM subjects comparing with controls. However, negative LA strain-parameter of LA booster pump function, was significantly increased in DM patients in comparison with controls. Peak oxygen consumption was significantly reduced and ventilation/carbon dioxide slope was elevated in DM patients. In the whole study population LA global longitudinal strain was associated with heart rate recovery in the first minute, peak oxygen consumption and ventilation/carbon dioxide slope independently of other clinical parameters and LV hypertrophy and LV diastolic function. In conclusion, LA phasic function and functional capacity were significantly impaired in the patients with DM. LA longitudinal strain, but not LA volume index, was independently related with functional capacity in the whole study population. Our results suggest that evaluation of LA function and functional capacity could detect subclinical target organ damage and prevent development of further complications in uncomplicated DM patients.

Association between elevated plasma aldosterone concentration and left atrial conduit function in hypertension

Aldosterone affects myocardial fibrosis and remodeling. The aim was to investigate the relationship between plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and left atrial (LA) function in hypertension. 148 hypertensive patients were studied. LA phasic function was evaluated by strain and strain rate imaging. Patients were divided into two groups based on PAC. LA early diastolic strain and strain rate (LAS-E and LASR-E) were lower in group II compared with group I (P ​< ​0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that LAS-E was independently related to PAC (β ​= ​−0.581, P ​< ​0.001). In conclusion, PAC is associated with LA conduit function in hypertension.

LEFT ATRIAL PHASIC FUNCTION-IDENTIFYING NEW PREDICTORS OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN HYPERTENSIVES

Objective:We evaluated left atrial phasic function by echocardiography, trying to find new echocardiographic markers of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation(AF) in hypertensive patients.Design and method:We prospectively enrolled two groups of hypertensives: 67 patients with hypertension without any arrhy

Left Atrial Volumes and Phasic Function in Healthy Children: Reference Values Using Real-Time Three-Dimensional Echocardiography

Evaluation of left atrial (LA) size and function is important in congenital and acquired pediatric cardiac disease. Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) offers noninvasive assessment of cardiac volumes and phasic function independent of geometric assumptions. The aim of this prospective multicenter study was to establish pediatric reference values for LA 3DE volumes and phasic function based on a large cohort of healthy children. LA data sets of 432 subjects (0 days-222months) were analyzed prospectively using a vendor-independent software. LA volumes (maximal [Vmax], minimal [Vmin], and before atrial contraction) as well as phasic function (active and passive emptying fraction [EF]) were assessed. For volumes, sex-specific reference values, percentiles, and z-scores were calculated by theLMS method of Cole and Green. Absolute volumes increased with age and body surface area. Active EF and relative duration of atrial emptying tended to increase with increasing R-R intervals, while passive EF decreased. Reproducibility of volumes was very good (intra- and interobserver variability for Vmax and Vmin (mean bias±SD, 0.1±0.9mL and 0.7±2.8mL). Volumes were well correlated with cardiac magnetic resonance measurements showing known underestimation of volumes by 3DE (mean bias±SD, Vmax -14.2±14mL; Vmin -11.5±10mL). Pediatric LA volumes and phasic function indices were reproducibly measured by 3DE. The provided pediatric reference values can be the basis for evaluation of the LA by 3DE and contribute to detection of LA dysfunction and follow-up of patients with congenital heart diseases.

Left Atrial Mechanical Function and Incident Ischemic Cerebrovascular Events Independent of AF: Insights From the MESA Study

ObjectivesThis study sought to assess the association of baseline left atrial (LA) phasic function measured with cardia magnetic resonance (CMR) and incident ischemic cerebrovascular events (CVE). BackgroundLA remodeling is a known predictor of atrial fibrillation (AF), which is a risk factor for ischemic CVE. Despite studies showing an association between LA remodeling and ischemic CVE, the association of LA mechanical function with ischemic CVE in a population free of known cardiovascular disease is not fully studied. MethodsPhasic LA volumes; total, passive, and active LA emptying fractions (LAEF); and peak longitudinal LA strain were measured using feature-tracking CMR in 4,261 MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) participants (61 ± 10 years of age; 48% male). All individuals were free of clinical cardiovascular disease at baseline. Participants were followed for 11.6 ± 3.5 years for the diagnosis of incident ischemic CVE, defined as ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack adjudicated by vascular neurologists. ResultsDuring the follow-up, 193 (1.26 per 1,000 person-years) ischemic CVE (134 ischemic strokes and 59 TIAs) occurred. Individuals with incident ischemic CVE had larger LA volumes and lower passive, active, and total LAEFs at baseline. In multivariate analysis adjusted for known CVE risk factors, left ventricular mass and interim AF, total LAEF was associated with incident ischemic CVE (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.85 per SD; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.74 to 0.98; p = 0.027). The unadjusted HR for the lowest tertile of total LAEF compared to the highest tertile was 2.0 (95% CI: 1.43 to 2.79; p < 0.001), and the adjusted HR was 1.47 (95% CI: 1.04 to 2.05; p = 0.031). Addition of total LAEF to known clinical risk factors of CVE and left ventricular mass resulted in an improved predictive accuracy (C statistic of 0.76 vs. 0.73, respectively; p = 0.039). ConclusionsReduced total LAEF was associated with incident ischemic CVE independent of known cerebrovascular risk factors and incident AF. Assessment of LA function may add further information in stratifying asymptomatic individuals at risk for ischemic stroke.

Left atrial phasic function in hypertensive patients with significant aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction.

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of hypertension on left atrial (LA) function in patients with moderate and severe AS. This cross-sectional study included 121 patients with moderate and severe AS and preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction ( > 50%) and 79 age-matched controls who underwent a comprehensive echocardiographic examination. LA phasic function was determined by both volumetric and strain methods. Our findings showed that the LV ejection fraction was similar between hypertensive and normotensive AS patients. Maximal, minimal, and pre-A LA volume indexes gradually increased from controls to moderate-to-severe AS patients. The total, passive and active LA emptying fraction (EF) gradually decreased in the same direction. LA phasic function estimated with strain analysis showed that reservoir, conduit, and pump LA phasic functions were lower in all AS patients than in normotensive controls. However, there was no significant difference between moderate and severe AS except in LA pump function, which was lower in severe AS. Differences in LA phasic function were more prominent in volumetric than in strain analyses. Blood pressure, LV mass index, and AS severity were independent of other clinical and echocardiographic parameters associated with LA phasic function in patients with AS. In conclusion, hypertension has an additive impact on LA phasic function in patients with moderate and severe AS. Blood pressure and AS severity were independently associated with LA phasic function parameters in AS patients. Volumetric assessment of LA phasic function should not be completely replaced with strain analysis.