Left Atrial Systolic Function Research Articles

Abstract P534: Sex Differences in Left Ventricular Diastolic Function and Cognitive Performance in Midlife: Evidence From the Bogalusa Heart Study

Background: Despite the growing interest in the role of isolated left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in cardiac remodeling, little is known about its association with cognitive performance in midlife, prior to the onset of dementia. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that LV diastolic dysfunction and cardiac remodeling will be associated with cognitive performance in middle-aged adults. These associations might differ by sex and race. Aim: To investigate the impact of left atrial (LA) size, LV mass, volume, systolic and diastolic function on cognition in middle-aged Black and White, men and women from a rural, community-based cohort, the Bogalusa Heart Study (BHS), in Louisiana. Methods: A total of 1,107 participants from the BHS (48.1±5.4 years, 56.7% female, 34.3% black) with echocardiography and cognitive testing were included. Cognitive performance was quantified in a global cognitive score (GCS) comprised of the z standardized sum of 7 neuropsychiatric tests. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used for the association of E/e’, LA volume index (LAVi), LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), mass index (LVMi) as well as ejection fraction (LVEF) with GCS adjusted for age, sex, race, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total and HDL cholesterol, history of smoking, diabetes, and hypertension as well as education. Interactions by sex and race were tested. Results: Even after adjusting for age, sex and race, larger LAVi, LVEDV, LVMi, higher E/e’ and lower e’ were associated with poorer cognitive function (all p <0.05), but not LVEF. These associations remained significant for E/e’, e’, and LVMi after adjusting for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total and HDL cholesterol, history of smoking, diabetes, hypertension, as well as education. There was no significant race interaction. In contrast, the association of E/e’ with GCS was significantly stronger (standardized β coefficient =-0.20; p <0.01) in middle-aged women, but not in middle-aged men (standardized β coefficient =-0.04; p <0.36; p interaction=0.02). Conclusion: LV diastolic function is more closely associated with mid-life cognition than systolic function, and the association is present among middle aged women but not men.

Effect of cryothermic and radiofrequency Cox-Maze IV ablation on atrial size and function assessed by 2D and 3D echocardiography, a randomized trial. To freeze or to burn.

Atrial linear scars in Cox-Maze IV procedures are achieved using Cryothermy (Cryo) or radiofrequency (RF) techniques. The subsequent postoperative left atrial (LA) reverse remodelling is unclear. We used 2- and 3-dimensional echocardiography (2-3DE) to compare the impact of Cryo and RF procedures on LA size and function 1 year after Cox-maze IV ablation concomitant with Mitral valve (MV) surgery. Seventy-two patients with MV disease and AF were randomized to Cryo (n = 35) or RF (n = 37) ablation. Another 33 patients were enroled without ablation (NoMaze). All patients underwent an echocardiogram the day before and 1 year after surgery. The LA function was assessed on 2D strain by speckle tracking and 3DE. Forty-two ablated patients recovered sinus rhythm (SR) 1 year after surgery. They had comparable left and right systolic ventricular function, LA volume index (LAVI), and 2D reservoir strain before surgery. At follow-up, the 3DE extracted reservoir and booster function were higher after RF (37 ± 10% vs. 26 ± 6%; p < 0.001) than Cryo ablation (18 ± 9 vs. 7 ± 4%; p < 0.001), while passive conduit function was comparable between groups (24 ± 11 vs. 20 ± 8%; p = 0.17). The extent of LAVI reduction depended on the duration of AF preoperatively. SR restoration after MV surgery and maze results in LA size reduction irrespective of the energy source used. Compared to RF, the extension of ablation area produced by Cryo implies a structural LA remodelling affecting LA systolic function.

Correlation between frailty and cardiac structure and function in echocardiography in elderly patients with normal ejection fraction.

This study aims to accurately evaluate the cardiac structure and function of the frail population in elderlypatients with normal ejection fraction (EF) using the 3D volume quantification and speckle tracking of echocardiography, to explore the correlation between frailty and cardiac structure and function. A total of 350 elderly aged 65 and above in-patients, excluding those with congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and severe valvular heart disease, were included in the study. Patients were divided into non-frail, pre-frail, and frail group. Echocardiography techniques including speckle tracking and 3D volume quantification, were used to analyze the cardiac structure and function of the study subjects. Comparative analysis was statistically significant if P < 0.05. The cardiac structure of the frail group was different compared with non-frail patients, the frail group demonstrated increased left ventricular myocardial mass index (LVMI), but decreased stroke volume. Cardiac function was also impaired in the frail group: reservoir strain and conduit strain of left atrium, strain of right ventricular (RV) free wall, strain of RV septum, 3D EF of RV, and global longitudinal strain of LV were significantly decreased. Frailty was significantly and independently associated with LV hypertrophy (OR 1.889; 95% CI 1.240,2.880; P = 0.003), LV diastolic dysfunction (OR 1.496; 95% CI 1.016,2.203; P = 0.041), left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) reduction (OR 1.697; 95% CI 1.192, 2.416; P = 0.003), and reduced RV systolic function (OR 2.200; 95% CI 1.017, 4.759; P = 0.045). Frailty is closely associated with several heart structural and functional alterations, which not only manifested as LV hypertrophy and reduced LV systolic function, but also decreased LV diastolic function, RV systolic function, and left atrial systolic function. Frailty is an independent risk factor for LV hypertrophy, LV diastolic dysfunction, LVGLS reduction, and reduced RV systolic function. ChiCTR2000033419. Date of registration: May 31, 2020.

623 PERCUTANEOUS LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE CLOSURE AND TRANSCATHETER CEREBRAL EMBOLIC PROTECTION: TWO CASES REPORT

Abstract Introduction Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) in AF patients is not inferior to oral anticoagulation (OAC) in terms of systemic embolism. LAA Closure is usually contraindicated in presence of intracardiac thrombus, a condition far from uncommon. The feasibility and safety of transcatheter cerebral embolic protection (TCEP) has been reported in literature as a successful off – label option in retrieving embolic debris during percutaneous LAAC. We present two cases of Watchman Flex insertion in the setting of LAA thrombus and prophylactic use of TCEP. Cases report The first patient was an 88-year-old male with history of symptomatic AF and post – traumatic cerebral bleeding, who was referred to LAAC because of high risk of bleeding in using OAC. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) documented a severely dilatated left atrial and preserved left ventricular systolic function. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) revealed a “chicken wing” shaped LAA with spontaneous echo-contrast and sludge effect confirmed with echo-contrast medium “SonoVue”. ECG – gated cardiac CT (CCT) showed a LAA filling defect and confirmed the diagnosis of LAA thrombus. The second patient was a 75-year-old man with valvular permanent AF and history of multiple ischemic strokes despite of OAC therapy with Warfarin. TTE documented a dilated left ventricle with severely depressed ejection fraction; TEE revealed a “windstock” shaped LAA with incompletely distal opacification with echo-contrast medium “SonoVue”. Both patients were candidate to LAAC with concomitant use of CEPDs in the event of neurological complication. TriGUARD 3 cerebral protection (TG3, Keystone Heart) was deployed in the aortic arch through right femoral artery access before LAAC procedure. Following transseptal puncture Watchman Flex device (Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA) was deployed without complications or residual peri-device leaks. At the end the TriGurad 3 device was retracted and no debris were noted at the post operatory inspection. The first patient was discharged afterward with daily acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg and Clopidogrel 75 mg and the second patient with daily acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg and Warfarin. Both patients underwent follow-up TEE at four weeks. Neither device – related complications nor thrombotic/hemorrhagic adverse events have been not reported so far. Discussion Both patients were at very high risk for stroke and bleeding. They were not theoretically candidate to LAAC because of intracardiac thrombus. The prophylactic use of TCEP (including TG3) has been reported in a small retrospective study by Tarantini et al. and in some case series. Procedures were always successful and uneventful. Moreover, small captured debris on the device on visual examination proved its efficacy. The use of TCEP has been mentioned even by Beneduce et al. as a safer and more feasible strategy in AF patients. Conclusion Prophylactic use of TCEP during The Watchman Flex device implantation is safe and feasible.

Natural history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats from rehoming centers: The CatScan II study.

The natural history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats has been mainly studied in cats referred for suspected heart disease, which can skew the results towards cats with clinical signs. Few data are available on factors associated with development of HCM in cats. (1) Clinical variables can predict which cats will develop HCM; (2) HCM in cats not referred for suspected heart disease is associated with a low rate of cardiovascular events. One hundred seven cats from rehoming centers without a history of clinical signs of cardiac or systemic disease at the time of adoption. Prospective longitudinal study. After rehoming, shelter cats were reexamined for serial echocardiograms. Cox regression analysis was used to identify predictors of development of HCM in cats that were normal at baseline. Adverse cardiovascular events including heart failure, thromboembolism, or sudden death were recorded. Cats were monitored for a median of 5.6 [1.2-9.2] years. At baseline, 68/107 cats were normal, 18/107 were equivocal and 21/107 had HCM. Nineteen cats developed HCM during the study period. The factors at baseline associated with increased hazard of developing HCM were lower left atrial fractional shortening, higher left ventricular fractional shortening, and higher body weight. Cardiovascular events were observed in 21% of cats with HCM. Cardiovascular events were common in cats with HCM from a rehoming center study sample. Lower left atrial systolic function appears to precede overt HCM.

Metabolic improvement during short-term treatment with a GLP-1 receptor agonist does not improve cardiac diastolic function in patients type 2 diabetes: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Abstract Background/Introduction The cardioprotective effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in patients with type 2 diabetes is still not well explained. In these patients, diastolic dysfunction is significant and linked to outcome, and the cardioprotective effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists may be by improving diastolic function. Purpose To investigate if short-term treatment of liraglutide a GLP-1 receptor agonist improves left ventricular diastolic function. Methods In an investigator-initiated double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial the effect of 18 weeks of treatment with liraglutide on diastolic function was assessed in type 2 diabetes patients and echocardiographic signs of diastolic dysfunction (echo-Doppler determined E/e'≥9 or/and lateral e'≤10 cm/sec). Primary outcomes were improved left ventricle filling (the early peak filling rate, ePFR) and left atrium ease of emptying (the passive emptying fraction, LAPEF), assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at rest and during chronotropic stress (glycopyrrolate 4 mg/kg; a cholinergic receptor antagonist increasing heart rate, and thereby inducing chronotropic stress without also affecting contractility). Secondary outcomes included left ventricular and left atrial volumes and systolic function, measures of aortic stiffness, and echocardiographic diastolic parameters. Results Forty patients were randomized to liraglutide s.c. 1.8 mg/day (n=20) or placebo (n=20). Liraglutide reduced HbA1c (−0.47% 95% CI (−0.88 to −0.06)) and weight (−2.9kg 95% CI (−4.6 to −1.2)), both p&amp;lt;0.03). Liraglutide did not change ePFR at rest −24±60 vs. −6±46 ml/sec, during stress 2±58 vs. −2±38 ml/sec, or the changes from rest and stress 12.9±72.5 vs. 4.7±104.0, all p&amp;gt;0.05. LAPEF decreased with liraglutide during stress (median (Q1, Q3)) −3.1 (−9.0, 1.1) vs. 1.0 (−2.9, 6.1) %, p=0.049, but no changes were evident at rest −4.3 (−7.9, 1.9) vs. −0.6 (−3.1, 2.2) %, p=0.19, or for the changes from rest to stress −1.7±8.4 vs. 0.8±8.2, p=0.4. All secondary outcomes were unchanged by liraglutide. Conclusions Short-term treatment with liraglutide did not improve diastolic function in patients with type 2 diabetes and echocardiographic signs of diastolic dysfunction. This suggests that the cardioprotective effect seen in long-term studies of liraglutide is not related to the improvement of left ventricular diastolic function. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): ASB has received funding from the Danish Heart Association [16-R107-A6790-22002, and 18-R125-A8444-22110]. Novo Nordisk supported the study by an unrestricted grant covering the costs of CMR scans and blood analyses. Novo Nordisk provided free study medication and matching placebo pens. None of the funding sources played any role in the process of conduction, interpretation of results or publishing the study Primary OutcomesSecondary Outcomes

Metabolic improvement with short-term, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist treatment does not improve cardiac diastolic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

To investigate if short-term treatment with liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, improves left ventricular diastolic function. An investigator-initiated, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of 18 weeks of treatment with liraglutide on diastolic function was assessed in patients with type 2 diabetes with signs of diastolic dysfunction (echo-Doppler determined E/e' ≥ 9 and/or lateral e' ≤ 10cm/s). Primary outcomes were improved left ventricle filling (the early peak filling rate [ePFR]) and left atrium ease of emptying (the passive emptying fraction [LAPEF ]), assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at rest and during chronotropic stress. Secondary outcomes included left ventricular and left atrial volumes and systolic function, measures of aortic stiffness and echocardiographic diastolic variables. Forty patients were randomized to liraglutide subcutaneously 1.8 mg/day (n=20) or placebo (n=20). Liraglutide reduced HbA1c (-0.47%, 95% CI [-0.88% to -0.06%] [-5.1, 95% CI {-9.7 to -0.62} mmol/mol]) and weight (-2.9, 95% CI [-4.6 to -1.2] kg); both P < .03. Liraglutide did not change ePFR at rest (-24 ± 60 vs. -6 ± 46 mL/s), during stress (2 ± 58 vs. -2 ± 38 mL/s), or the changes from rest to stress (12.9 ± 72.5 vs. 4.7 ± 104.0; all P > .05). LAPEF decreased with liraglutide during stress (-3.1% [-9.0%, 1.1%] vs. 1.0% [-2.9%, 6.1%]; P=.049), but no changes were evident at rest (-4.3% [-7.9%, 1.9%] vs. -0.6% [-3.1%, 2.2%]; P=.19), or for the changes from rest to stress (-1.7 ± 8.4 vs. 0.8 ± 8.2; P=.4). Secondary outcomes were unchanged by liraglutide. Short-term treatment with liraglutide did not improve left ventricular diastolic function, suggesting the cardioprotective effect is not exerted through the improvement in diastolic dysfunction.

Left Atrial Ejection Force as a Marker for the Diagnosis of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction.

Introduction:Several echocardiographic techniques are used to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF). Left atrial ejection force (LAEF) is a measure of left atrial (LA) systolic function. The aim of this study was to examine the use of LAEF as a measure for the diagnosis of HFPEF.Methods:A prospective study including 100 patients with HFPEF and 100 healthy controls. Heart failure association algorithm score for the diagnosis of HFPEF (HFA–PEFF score) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP) were assessed. Transthoracic echocardiography measured indexed left ventricular mass index (LVMI), left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, LA volume index (LAVI), global longitudinal strain (GLS), trans-mitral Doppler velocities, E/A ratio, E/e' ratio, and estimation of LAEF.Results:Patients in the HFPEF group were more frequently hypertensive, diabetic, and had a history of ischemic heart disease. NT-pro-BNP was higher in the HFPEF group (P < 0.0001). LVMI, relative wall thickness, and LAVI were all significantly higher in the HFpEF group (P < 0.0001 for all). LV-GLS was significantly lower in the HFPEF (P < 0.0001). LAEF was significantly higher in the study group 142.14 ± 24.27 versus 92.18% ±13.99% (P < 0.0001). A sub-group of 18 patients in the study group with a borderline HFA-PEF score of 4 had a LAEF that was significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.0001) but did not differ from the rest of the HFPEFF group patients.Conclusion:LAEF was significantly higher in patients with HFPEF compared to healthy controls. Patients with a borderline HFA-PEFF score of 4 had a significantly higher LAEF as compared to controls.

Abstract 14245: Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 and Long-term Cardiac Function: The Multi- Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

Background: While fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is associated with incident heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF), the mechanisms driving these associations are unclear. FGF23 elevation leads to cardiomyocyte calcium handling abnormalities, suggesting that FGF23 may directly reduce myocardial function. Methods: In the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, a cohort free of cardiovascular disease at recruitment, we evaluated the associations of serum FGF23 (2000-2002) with measures of left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) mechanical function on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) at 10-year follow up (2010-2012). Results: Of 2,276 participants with baseline FGF23 and CMR at 10-year follow up, participants with higher FGF23 levels were more likely white race, taking anti-hypertensive medications, and had lower baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR). After covariate adjustment, baseline FGF23 levels were independently associated with worse LV global circumferential strain, worse LV mid-wall circumferential strain, and lower LA total emptying fraction in later life ( Table ). The association of FGF23 and LV global circumferential strain was consistent across the spectrum of GFR ( Figure ). While higher FGF23 was associated with higher LV mass (β coefficient per SD higher: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.16, 2.12, P= 0.02), it was not associated with the presence of macroscopic myocardial scar (OR per SD higher: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.86-1.45, P= 0.42). Conclusions: Baseline FGF23 is independently associated with lower LV and LA systolic function in later life. These findings provide mechanistic insight driving the associations of FGF23 with development of both HF and AF.

Echocardiographic assessment of left atrial morphology and function to predict maintenance of sinus rhythm after electrical cardioversion in patients with non-valvular persistent atrial fibrillation and normal function or mild dysfunction of left ventricle.

The aim of this study was to assess whether echocardiographic measurements of left atrial (LA) morphology and function could predict sinus rhythm maintenance after electrical cardioversion among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and normal function or mild dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV). One hundred seventeen patients with persistent AF who underwent successful electrical cardioversion were prospectively enrolled. Echocardiography was performed one day subsequent to successful cardioversion. Patients were followed up clinically and electrocardiographically at 1, 6, and 12 months. At 12 months, 61 (52%) patients had maintained sinus rhythm (SR). Compared to patients who maintained SR, those with AF recurrence had larger LAs, worse LA systolic function, and increased LV filling pressure. On multivariate stepwise logistic regression, E/A ratios (odds ratio [OR] 0.550, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.341-0.886; p = 0.014) and E/e' ratios (OR 0.871, 95% CI 0.771-0.985; p = 0.027) were significant predictors of AF recurrence. On receiver operator characteristic curve analysis of AF recurrence at 12 months, the area under curve for both E/A and E/e' ratios were 0.726. With an E/A cutoff of 2.2, the sensitivity for predicting AF recur-rence at 12 months was 72%, and specificity was 73%. With an E/e' cutoff of 9.17, the sensitivity for predicting AF recurrence at 12 months was 72%, and specificity was 74%. Left ventricular filling pressure assessed with E/A and E/e' ratios predict AF recurrence after electrical cardioversions among patients with AF and normal function of LV.

The Effect of Transcatheter Atrial Septal Defect Closure on Left Heart Function in Pediatric Patients.

The aim of this study was to use tissue Doppler imaging to evaluate the left atrial systolic and the left ventricular (LV) diastolic function as well as the left atrial ejection force in children who underwent transcatheter closure of a secundum atrial septal defect (ASD). Tissue Doppler measurements of the left atrial ejection force, the mitral valve, and left atrial volume were performed before the ASD closure procedure, and on the 1st day, 10th day, and 1st and 3rd months after the procedure in 56 patients and in 28 healthy controls. There was a significant decrease in the septal and lateral a' velocities on the first day (p<0.05). There was a statistically significant increase in the septal e'/a' parameters at the third month compared with the initial measurements. The left atrial ejection force was lower in patients with an ASD than in the healthy group (10.69±4.94 kdyn, 12.31±4.05 kdyn, respectively), but there was no significant difference (p=0.053). The left atrial ejection force was significantly greater in the patient group 3 months after the procedure, and there was no significant difference compared with the control group. Improvement in the LV diastolic and left atrial systolic functions was observed in children who underwent transcatheter closure of an ASD. There was no negative effect related to the devices used.

The Relationship between Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and Left Ventricular Diastolic Function.

Introduction:Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is a common condition. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha is an inflammatory cytokine that plays a role in the development of cardiac structural changes leading to LV diastolic dysfunction. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between serum levels of TNF alpha levels and LV diastolic function.Methods:A case–control study that included 40 patients with echocardiographic evidence of LV diastolic dysfunction and 40 healthy controls. Standard transthoracic echocardiography was performed to assess LV and left atrial volumes, systolic and diastolic function according to the current recommendations. Serum TNF alpha levels were assessed using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.Results:Mean serum TNF alpha level was significantly higher in the study group 3.48 ± 1.06 versus 1.22 ± 0.36 pg/ml in the control group, P < 0.001. It was also higher in patients with Grade 2 diastolic dysfunction (n = 16) 3.91 ± 1.21 versus 3.18 ± 0.86 pg/ml in those with Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction (n = 24), P = 0.03. TNF alpha showed a strong correlation with indexed left atrial volume (LAVI) in the study group but not in controls. Mean serum TNF showed a trend toward increase with worsening heart failure symptoms in the form of increased the New York Heart Association functional class.Conclusion:Serum TNF alpha level is elevated in patients with LV diastolic dysfunction and is correlated to LAVI in such patients. Patients with Grade 2 diastolic dysfunction have higher serum levels of TNF alpha compared to those with Grade 1 diastolic dysfunction. TNF alpha levels increase with worsening heart failure symptoms.

P1748 Left atrial diastolic and systolic functions modulate the response to the standardised Valsalva maneuver in normal subjects

Abstract Background Although the Valsalva maneuver (VM) is being advocated by current guidelines to identify with echocardiography patients with increased left ventricular (LV) filling pressures using a decrease in mitral E/A velocity &amp;gt; 0.5 as cutoff, there are limited published data for both patients and the normal response to the maneuver in healthy subjects. Purpose To assess LV and left atrial (LA) physiology during a standardized VM (VMs) in normal subjects. Methods The VMs was performed in 50 healthy subjects (M:F 38:12; age 40 ± 12 y.; HR 70 ± 11 bpm; BSA 1.81 ± 11 m2), instructed to forcefully exhale for 20 seconds without an initial deep breath into a tube connected to a sphygmomanometer, maintaining a 25-35 mmHg pressure. The VM was repeated 2 times at 5 minute intervals to record sequentially in the apical 4-chamber view: 1. LV and LA volumes; 2. Transmitral flow velocities. LA diastolic reservoir function (LAres) was calculated as: (maximum – minimum volume) / minimum volume x 100. Results. During the VMs, in all subjects LV indexed end-diastolic (-14 ± 7 ml/m2, -31 ± 15 %) and end-systolic (-6 ± 4 ml/m2, -31 ± 18 %) volumes, and stroke volume index (-9 ± 5 ml/m2, -30 ± 15 %) decreased similarly with unchanged LV ejection fraction %, and LA maximum and minimum volume indices both decreased (respectively -8 ± 6 ml/m2, -3 ± 3 ml/m2;-32 ± 25 %) with high variability. Mitral peak E velocity also decreased (-22 ± 13 cm/s, -27 ± 14 %) in all subjects, whereas peak A velocity change varied, such that a "pseudo-abnormal" decrease of E/A &amp;gt; 0.5 was seen in 18 subjects (37 %). At baseline, this subgroup had lower heart rate (66 ± 11 vs 73 ± 10 bpm, p= .026), higher LAres (193 ± 67 vs 145 ± 47 %, p= .006), lower peak A velocity (50 ± 12 vs 58 ± 12 cm/s, p= .04) and higher E/A (1.8±.6 vs 1.4±.3, p= .004). During VMs, LV and LA volumes decreased similarly in all subjects, but increase in heart rate was higher (12 ± 8 vs 6 ± 5 bpm, p= .023), and peak A wave increased instead of decreasing (20 ± 20 % vs -8 ± 18 %, p&amp;lt; .001) in the subjects with "pseudo-abnormal" decrease of E/A. During VMs, decrease in E/A was mainly determined (regression analysis, r: .76, p= .029) by baseline LAres (B= -.71) and change in LAres during VMs (B= -.47), whereas an increase in peak A velocity (r: .46, p= .031) was mainly determined by degree of HR increase (B= .41) and baseline LV EF (B= .3). Conclusions During VMs, a "pseudo-abnormal" decrease of the E/A velocity ratio is present in almost 40 % of normal subjects, and is determined by the interplay of the baseline diastolic compliance and the increase in systolic function of the LA during VM. These results may influence the accuracy of the VMs in the detection of increased LV filling pressures in patients.

Risk in atrial fibrillation: left atrial function matters

Risk in atrial fibrillation: left atrial function matters

Increased atrial contraction contribution to left ventricular filling during early septic shock

PurposeTo assess the atrial systolic function and the contribution of atrial contraction to left ventricular (LV) filling in septic shock patients as compared with healthy volunteers. MethodsTwenty-seven septic patients evaluated during first 48 h of ICU admission and compared with 27 healthy volunteers. Left atrial (LA) contraction contribution to LV filling was calculated as the active emptying atrial volume/LV end-diastolic volume. Atrial systolic function was evaluated with the atrial kinetic force [LAKE = 0.5 × blood density × LVVactive × (peak A velocity)2] and atrial ejection force [LASF = 0.5 × blood density × mitral annulus area × (peak A velocity)2]. ResultsLV ejection fraction was lower in septic patients than in control group: 51 ± 14%vs 60 ± 6% (p < 0.01). Contribution of LA contraction to LV preload was greater in septic patients than in normal subjects (26.7 ± 11.3% vs 15.9 ± 5.9%, p < 0.001), even if adjusted for age (0.49 ± 0.19 vs 0.35 ± 0.13, p = 0.004). LAKE and LASF were also significantly larger in septic patients than in normal subjects (21.8 ± 9.1 vs 7.3 ± 3 kdynes·cm, p < 0.001; 16.1 ± 11.7 vs 9.8 ± 4.3 kdynes, p = 0.048, respectively), and remained unchanged during the next 48 h. ConclusionIn septic shock patients, LA systolic function increased and greatly contributed to support LV filling. These results highlight the role of preserving atrial contraction on the hemodynamic resuscitation in early septic shock.

Effects of different ablation strategies on long-term left atrial function in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: a single-blind randomized controlled trial

Restoration of sinus rhythm in atrial fibrillation (AF) by radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is associated with a transient stunning of left atrial (LA) function. However, the long-term effects of different ablation strategies on LA function remain undetermined. We performed randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of RFCA, cryoablation, and 3D mapping-guided cryoablation on LA function of proximal AF patients within 1 year. The 3D mapping-guided cryoablation was defined as a maximum of two cryoablation procedures for each pulmonary vein accompanied by RFCA for additional points until complete pulmonary vein isolation was achieved. Conventional and speckle tracking echocardiographic analyses were performed to evaluate LA function. Among the 210 patients (70 in each group) included, a trend of decreasing LA systolic and diastolic function was observed in all groups, as evidenced by decreases in peak A-wave velocity, the global LA peak systolic strain, the peak strain rate, the peak early diastolic strain rate, and the peak late diastolic strain rate within 7 days to 3 months after ablation followed by gradual recovery thereafter. However, the temporal changes in the above four strain parameters among the three groups did not differ significantly within 1 year after ablation (all p > 0.05). Parameters of the LA emptying fraction and LA dimensions were not significantly affected. These results suggested that stunning of LA function occurred within 7 days to 3 months after ablation, and different strategies of AF ablation did not differentially affect the temporal changes in LA function up to 1 year after ablation.

Effect of catheter ablation on pre-existing abnormalities of left atrial systolic, diastolic, and neurohormonal functions in patients with chronic heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

The critical role of the left atrium (LA) in cardiovascular homoeostasis is mediated by its reservoir, conduit, systolic, and neurohormonal functions. Atrial fibrillation is generally a reflection of underlying disease of the LA, especially in patients with heart failure. Disease-related LA remodelling leads to a decline in both atrial contractility and distensibility along with an impairment in the control of neurohormonal systems that regulate intravascular volume. Catheter ablation can lead to further injury to the atrial myocardium, as evidenced by post-procedural troponin release and tissue oedema. The cardiomyocyte loss leads to replacement fibrosis, which may affect up to 30–35% of the LA wall. These alterations further impair atrial force generation and neurohormonal functions; the additional loss of atrial distensibility can lead to a ‘stiff LA syndrome’, and the fibrotic response predisposes to recurrence of the atrial arrhythmia. Although it intends to restore LA systole, catheter ablation often decreases the chamber’s transport functions. This is particularly likely in patients with long-standing atrial fibrillation and pre-existing LA fibrosis, especially those with increased epicardial adipose tissue (e.g. patients with obesity, diabetes and/or heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction). Although the fibrotic LA in these individuals is an ideal substrate for the development of atrial fibrillation, it may be a suboptimal substrate for catheter ablation. Such patients are not likely to experience long-term restoration of sinus rhythm, and catheter ablation has the potential to worsen their haemodynamic and clinical status. Further studies in this vulnerable group of patients are needed.

Noninvasive assessment of left atrial fibrosis. Correlation between echocardiography, biomarkers, and electroanatomical mapping.

Left atrial (LA) fibrosis promotes atrial fibrillation (AF), may predict poor radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) outcome, and may be assessed invasively using electroanatomical mapping (EAM). Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) enables quantitative assessment of LA function. The aim was to assess the relationship between LA fibrosis derived from EAM and LA echocardiographic parameters as well as biomarkers of fibrosis in patients with AF. Sixty-six patients (64% males, mean age 56±10) with nonvalvular AF treated with first RFCA were prospectively studied. Seventy-three percent of patients were in sinus rhythm at the time of examination. LA geometry, systolic, and diastolic function were assessed. In STE global, peak atrial longitudinal (PALS) and contractile (PACS) strain were calculated. LA stiffness index (LAs) - the ratio of E/e' to PALS - was assessed. The EAM of LA was build using Carto System before RFCA. Low amplitude potentials area (LAPA) was quantitatively analyzed and expressed as a percentage of LA surface using the cut-off <0.5mV to detect potential sites of fibrosis. The serum concentrations of MMP-9, PIIINP, and TGFβ1were estimated before RFCA. Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between LA diastolic function parameters: PALS (-0.54, P<.001), LAs (0.65, P<.001), and LAPA in patients who were in sinus rhythm. Also LA volume significantly correlated with LAPA (0.44, P<.002). None of biomarkers correlated with LAPA. Left atrial diastolic parameters derived from STE correlate well with the extent of LA fibrosis. Thus, STE may be useful in the noninvasive assessment of LA fibrosis and selection of candidates for RFCA.

Evaluation of atrial electromechanical functions in dipper and nondipper hypertension patients using left atrial strain P-wave dispersion and P terminal force.

Nondippers are known to carry a high risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dipper and nondipper status of hypertension on left atrial (LA) systolic and diastolic functions using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE), P-wave dispersion (PWD), and P terminal force (PTF) in hypertensive patients. A total of 72 patients and 39 healthy individuals were included in the study. The patients were classified as nondippers if their daytime ambulatory systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not decrease by at least 10% during the night. Atrial electromechanical delay times, LA strain values were obtained by 2D-STE with automated software and compared between the groups. PWD and PTF data were calculated on the electrocardiography. Inter-atrial (dippers: 25.5±3.9, nondippers: 32.2±7.4, P<.001), left-atrial (dippers: 14.9±3.7, nondippers: 18.2±6.0, P=.016), and right atrial (dippers: 10.5±2.1, nondippers: 14.2±5.2, P<.001) electromechanical delay times were significantly longer in nondippers. LA strain S (dippers: 34.2 [29.7-38.7], nondippers: 27.7 [22.7-32.2], P<.001), LA strain E (dippers: 18.2 [16.6-20.1], nondippers: 14.4 [11.6-16.8], P<.001), and LA strain A (dippers: 15.8 [13.5-17.9], nondippers: 12.7 [9.9-14.5], P<.001) were significantly lower in nondippers. Nondippers also had an increased values of maximum P-wave duration (dippers: 0.117 [0.10-0.12], nondippers: 0.126 [0.12-0.14], P<.001), PWD (dippers: 0.062 [0.06-0.07], nondippers: 0.069 [0.06-0.08], P=.004), and PTF (dippers: 0.055±0.02, nondippers: 0.066±0.02, P=.02). Nondipping pattern in hypertensive patients had a worse cardiac remodeling, and impaired mechanical LA function compared with dipping pattern. The PWD and PTF findings support these changes.

Impaired left atrial systolic function and inter-atrial dyssynchrony may contribute to symptoms of heart failure with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction: A comprehensive assessment by echocardiography

AimsTo assess LA diastolic and systolic function and atrial dyssynchrony in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and to examine whether LA dysfunction and dyssynchrony account for the patients' symptoms of HFpEF. MethodsFifty-five patients with HFpEF, 31 asymptomatic patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and 33 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. The LA active ejection fraction (LAAEF) was calculated. The peak atrial longitudinal systolic strain (PALS) and peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) were measured using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). Atrial dyssynchrony including inter-atrial dyssynchrony, LA dyssynchrony and right atrial dyssynchrony were calculated by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). ResultsThe PALS and PACS were deteriorated, whereas inter-atrial dyssynchrony was prolonged in patients with HFpEF (20.41±7.41%, 10.83±4.19%, 31±15ms, respectively) compared with the values obtained in asymptomatic LVDD patients (26.61±6.30%, 13.23±4.52%, 19±12ms, respectively) and those found in normal individuals (33.51±6.74%, 14.17±2.88%, 17±12ms, respectively) (P<0.05). However, PACS and inter-atrial dyssynchrony did not reach statistical significance between asymptomatic LVDD and normal individuals (P>0.05). Moreover, patients with deteriorated clinical symptoms (NYHA>II) presented worse LA systolic function and prolonged dyssynchrony compared with those with NYHA=II. Inter-atrial dyssynchrony and LAAEF are independently associated with worse NYHA functional classes in patients with HFpEF. ConclusionsLA diastolic and systolic function were significantly impaired, and inter-atrial dyssynchrony was prolonged in patients with HFpEF. Decreased LA systolic function and prolonged inter-atrial dyssynchrony were possibly associated with deteriorated clinical symptoms.