Decrease In Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Research Articles

Long-term changes in cardiac remodelling in prevalent kidney graft recipients

BackgroundApproximately 15% of kidney transplant (KT) recipients develop de novo heart failure after KT. There are scarce data reporting the long-term changes in cardiac structure and function among KT recipients. Despite the improvement in renal function, transplant-related complications as well as immunosuppressive therapy could have an impact on cardiac remodelling during follow-up. We aimed to describe the long-term changes in echocardiographic parameters in prevalent KT recipients and identify the clinical and laboratory factors associated with these changes. MethodsA centralised blinded review of two echocardiographic examinations after KT (on average after 17 and 39 months post-KT respectively) was performed among 80 patients (age 50.4 ± 16.2, diabetes 13.8% pre-KT), followed by linear regression to identify clinico-biological factors related to echocardiographic changes. ResultsLeft atrial volume index (LAVI) increased significantly (34.2 ± 10.8 mL/m2vs. 37.6 ± 15.0 mL/m2, annualised delta 3.1 ± 11.4 mL/m2/year; p = 0.034) while left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) decreased (62.1 ± 9.0% vs. 59.7 ± 9.9%, annualised delta −2.7 ± 13.6%/year; p = 0.04). Male sex (β = 8.112 ± 2.747; p < 0.01), pre-KT hypertension (β = 9.725 ± 4.156; p < 0.05), graft from expanded criteria donor (β = 3.791 ± 3.587; p < 0.05), and induction by anti-thymocyte globulin (β = 7.920 ± 2.974; p = 0.01) were associated with an increase in LAVI during follow-up. Higher haemoglobin (>12.9 g/dL) at the time of the first echocardiography (β = 6.029 ± 2.967; p < 0.05) and ACEi/ARB therapy (β = 8.306 ± 3.161; p < 0.05) were associated with an increase in LVEF during follow-up. ConclusionThis study confirms the existence of long-term cardiac remodelling after KT despite dialysis cessation, characterised by an increase in LAVI and a decrease in LVEF. A better management of anaemia and using ACEi/ARB therapy may prevent such remodelling.

Effects of Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, and Liposomal Doxorubicin (Anthracycline) on cardiac function in patients with osteosarcoma and their influencing factors.

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, and Liposomal Doxorubicin (Anthracycline) on cardiac function in osteosarcoma patients and analyze the factors influencing this effect. A retrospective study was conducted on 165 osteosarcoma patients admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to December 2022. Based on the chemotherapy regimen, the patients were divided into two groups: the control group (n = 62) treated with Cisplatin and cyclophosphamide, and the observation group (n = 103) treated with Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, and Liposomal Doxorubicin (Anthracycline). The general records of both groups were analyzed, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was evaluated through echocardiography before and after chemotherapy. Blood cTnT and CK-MB levels were measured using immunoluminescence. The incidence of adverse reactions during chemotherapy was also analyzed. Univariate analysis was performed to identify patients with cardiotoxic events, and multiple logistic regression analysis was done to study the effects of Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, Liposomal Doxorubicin, and their dosages on cardiotoxicity in patients. The general records between the two groups showed no significant differences (P > 0.05). However, at the fourth cycle of chemotherapy, the observation group exhibited a lower LVEF (P < 0.05), and a higher percentage of LVEF decrease compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the observation group had higher levels of blood cTnT and CK-MB (P < 0.05). The incidence of cardiotoxicity in the observation group was also higher (P < 0.05), but no significant differences were seen in other adverse reaction rates (P > 0.05). The occurrence of cardiotoxicity was found to be related to the choice and dosage of chemotherapy drugs (P < 0.05), but not significantly correlated with age, sex, and mediastinal irradiation in patients (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the use of Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, and Liposomal Doxorubicin in chemotherapy, as well as an increase in their dosages, was found to elevate the risk of cardiotoxicity in osteosarcoma patients (P < 0.05). However, age, sex, and mediastinal radiation were not significantly associated with cardiotoxicity in osteosarcoma patients (P > 0.05). We demonstrated that Doxorubicin, Epirubicin, Liposomal Doxorubicin (Anthracycline), and other drugs adversely affected cardiac function in osteosarcoma patients, increasing the risk of cardiac toxicity. Therefore, close monitoring of cardiac function during chemotherapy is crucial, and timely adjustments to the chemotherapy regimen are necessary. In addition, rational control of drug selection and dosage is essential to minimize the occurrence of cardiac toxicity.

Radionuclide Imaging Findings in Iatrogenic Stress in Cases with Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

Objective: This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by assisting in the selection of stress protocols for patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). We also aim to provide insights into patient follow-up based on changes in post-stress LVEF determined by echocardiography. Methods: Our retrospective study encompassed 487 patients initially diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Left ventricular function was assessed using echocardiography and myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. Among them, 250 patients with LVEF values within normal limits constituted Group-1, while 237 patients with LVEF values below 50% formed Group-2. Exercise stress testing was performed using a treadmill according to the Bruce protocol. For vasodilator stress testing, intravenous adenosine infusion at a rate of 140 μg/kg/min was administered for 6 minutes. Tc-99m-sestamibi was intravenously administered (8-12 mCi) for stress imaging and (24-36 mCi) for rest imaging. Results: The median age of all patients in the study was 64 (52-79) years, with 283 (58.1%) being male. Myocardial perfusion, assessed by myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, revealed a fixed perfusion defect in all patients. Reversible perfusion defects were observed in 172 (35.3%) patients. Among patients with reduced echo-LVEF values, those who underwent exercise stress testing showed significantly lower post-stress EF values compared to those who underwent vasodilator stress testing (35 (25-42) vs. 36 (30-47), p: 0.0005). Post-stress LVEF was notably lower in patients with reversible perfusion defects, indicating a higher rate of LVEF decrease due to stress (p: 0.0005). Conclusion: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) serves as a valuable metric for assessing left ventricular function. The findings from this study support its utility in guiding the selection of a suitable stress protocol and monitoring patients during iatrogenic cardiac stress applications.

THE POSSIBILITY OF PREDICTING LEFT VENTRICULAR DYSFUNCTION IN THE EARLY POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD IN CHILDREN WITH VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT

Highlights The article reflects data of an original study on the diagnosis of early postoperative dysfunction in children under 1 year of age after correction of a ventricular septal defect. The relationship between troponin I and conventional echocardiographic parameters, left ventricular longitudinal strain (S, % LV), and parameters reflecting central hemodynamics was assessed. The predictive ability of S, % LV in predicting a decrease in cardiac index after surgery was revealed. AbstractAim. To evaluate the possibility of predicting left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in the early postoperative period in children with ventricular septal defect (VSD).Methods. The study included 204 children under 1 year of age with non-restrictive perimembranous VSD. All parameters were evaluated before surgery, 6 hours, 24 hours and 10 days after surgery. 125 healthy children were enrolled as the control group.Results. 6 hours after surgery, there was a statistically significant decrease in LV ejection fraction (EF) (Me 55 [K3 60–K1 45] %, p = 0.0001), stroke index (SI) of LV outflow tract (LVOT) (12, 07 [16.38–8.24] mL/m2, p = 0.0001), and cardiac index (CI) (1.52 [2.08–1.07] L/min/m2, p = 0.0001). Arterial elasticity (AE) increased (21.4 [32.4–15.79] mm Hg/mL, p = 0.002), indicating a significant increase in afterload. Arterial compliance (AC) decreased (0.058 [0.081-0.038] mL/mm Hg, p = 0.0001), whereas ventricular-arterial coupling (VAC) value significantly increased (2 [2.54–1.67], p = 0.009). There was a dependence between LVOT SI and age (Rs = 0.45, p = 0.03), a moderate relationship between LVOT SI and VAC (Rs = –0.59, p = 0.001), a pronounced relationship between LVOT SI and AC (Rs = 0, 93, p = 0.02), pronounced relationship between LVOT SI and AE (Rs = –0.94, p = 0.03), moderate correlation between VAC and SI (Rs = –0.44, p = 0.04), weak relationship between VAC and patient age (Rs = –0.28, p = 0.03). Longitudinal deformity before surgery (b = 0.028; F = 3.9; p = 0.006) and VSD size (b = -0.08; F = 3.4; p = 0.029) were significantly associated with LV SI dynamics 6 hours after surgery. Dependence equation was as follows: 2.8 – 0.08 * VSD + 0.028 * S. A predictive ability to reduce CI 6 hours after surgery was revealed: longitudinal strain (S), % with a threshold “–” 14.3% (sensitivity 96.2%, specificity 81.6%, AUC 0.92, p&lt;0, 00001) and VSD diameter with a threshold of 8 mm (sensitivity 75%, specificity 52%, AUC 0.69, p&lt;0.0001).Conclusion. In the early postoperative period, there is a decrease in systolic and LV pump function. High AE rates are associated with a decrease in AC and an increase in VAC. Preoperative predictors of SI decrease are as follows: S, %&gt; “–” 14.3 and VSD size &gt; 8 mm.

A Systematic Review on Cardioprotection Strategies to Prevent Breast Cancer Therapy Cardiotoxicity

Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women on a global scale, affecting an average of 2.1 million individuals annually. In addition, several studies have shown that it is often treated using chemotherapy drugs and targeted therapy, but these treatment methods have been reported to have side effects on the cardiovascular system. This indicates that there is a need to develop new and effective strategies to prevent the associated side effects. Therefore, this systematic review aims to obtain cardioprotection strategies to prevent cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy or targeted therapy. Methods: Data collection was carried out using the online database PubMed with keywords ((cardioprotection) AND (breast cancer therapy) AND (cardiotoxic) OR (Cardiac dysfunction.)) From the initial search, a total of 150 studies were obtained, while articles that did not meet the eligibility criteria were excluded. Furthermore, the articles were reviewed using full-text reading, leading to the inclusion of nineteen in this systematic review. Results: A total of eleven studies evaluated the effect of cardio-protective drugs on Anthracycline (ANT), and nine assessed Trastuzumab. The results showed that eight studies used Beta-blocker (BB) as cardio-protective strategies, while one, one, three, two, one, one, and one utilized Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), ARB + Beta-blocker, ACE-inhibitor (ACE-I) + Beta-blocker, ACE-I/ARB/BB, spironolactone, statin, and Dexrazoxane (DZR), respectively. In large reports, the risk of CTRCD was reduced by the use of a combination of RAAS inhibitors and Beta-blockers. Furthermore, spironolactone, statins, and DZR mitigated the decrease in LVEF compared to the control group in small studies. Conclusions: Based on the results, chemotherapy decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and induced heart failure. Furthermore, the review showed that a combination of reninangiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors and Beta-blockers reduced CTRCD. Future studies in larger settings were needed to investigate the efficacy of other strategies, such as statins, Spironolactone, exercise, and DZR.

Changes in Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Clinical Trajectories of Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis with Systolic Dysfunction

Background: Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CM) is classically thought of as a progressive disease with preserved systolic function. The longitudinal clinical trajectories of ATTR-CM with impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) remain unclear. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with ATTR-CM who underwent two or more echocardiograms with baseline LVEF &lt; 50%. Patients were stratified according to the presence of ≥5% change in LVEF. A Cox proportional hazard model examined hazard of a composite outcome of death, transplant, or LVAD insertion over the two years following diagnosis. Results: In our study cohort of 179 patients, 62 patients (34.6%) experienced an increase in LVEF while 33 (18.4%) experienced a decrease in LVEF. After adjusting for covariates, patients with a decrease in EF experienced increased hazard of death (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.05–4.40, p = 0.038) compared to those with stable or an increase in LVEF. Changes in LVEF corresponded with significant differences in NT proBNP trajectories, but initial biomarker levels or clinical staging were not predictive of LVEF trajectory. Conclusions: in ATTR-CM patients with impaired LVEF, over a third demonstrated improved LVEF over time, while those with a decrease in LVEF had worse long-term outcomes.

Effects of diabetes mellitus on left ventricular function and deformation in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathies: a 3.0T CMR feature tracking study

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common metabolic disease worldwide and a major risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events, while the additive effects of DM on left ventricular (LV) deformation in the restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) cohort remain unclear. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate the additive effects of DM on LV deformation in patients with RCM.Materials and methodsOne hundred thirty-six RCM patients without DM [RCM(DM−)], 46 with DM [RCM (DM+)], and 66 age- and sex-matched control subjects who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) scanning were included. LV function, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) type, and LV global peak strains (including radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions) were measured. The determinant of reduced LV global myocardial strain for all RCM patients was assessed using multivariable linear regression analyses. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was performed to illustrate the relationship between DM and decreased LV deformation.ResultsCompared with the control group, RCM (DM−) and RCM(DM+) patients presented increased LV end-diastolic index and end-systolic volume index and decreased LV ejection fraction. LV GPS in all three directions and longitudinal PDSR progressively declined from the control group to the RCM(DM−) group to the RCM(DM+) group (all p < 0.05). DM was an independent determinant of impaired LV GPS in the radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions and longitudinal PDSR (β = − 0.217, 0.176, 0.253, and − 0.263, all p < 0.05) in RCM patients. The multiparameter combination, including DM, showed an AUC of 0.81(95% CI 0.75–0.87) to predict decreased LV GLPS and an AUC of 0.69 (95% CI 0.62–0.76) to predict decreased LV longitudinal PDSR.ConclusionsDM may have an additive deleterious effect on LV dysfunction in patients with RCM, especially diastolic dysfunction in RCM patients, indicating the importance of early identification and initiation of treatment of DM in patients with RCM.

Prevalence and prognostic value of significant mitral regurgitation development after pacemaker implantation

Abstract Background Mitral regurgitation (MR) is one of the complications after pacemaker (PM) implantation. However, the underlying mechanism leading to MR progression after PM implantation is not yet fully understood. There is also a lack of information on the clinical impact of the development of MR after PM implantation. Purpose This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and mechanism of MR progression after PM implantation and to determine its prognostic value. Methods Patients who underwent de novo PM implantation at our university medical centre between 2010 and 2020 were included. Patients with previous mitral valve surgery, transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, or MR severity ≥ moderate before device implantation were excluded. The development of significant MR was defined as a worsening of MR severity ≥ moderate within five years after PM implantation. Clinical endpoints were defined as a composite of all-cause mortality or heart failure hospitalization. Results A total of 451 patients (mean age 69 ± 15 years, 61% male) were included. High-degree atrioventricular block (76%) was the main indication for PM implantation. Dual-chamber PM was implanted in 370 (82%) patients. The development of significant MR occurred in 131 (29%) patients at a median of 2.4 years [interquartile range (IQR): 1.0-3.8 years] after PM implantation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that implanted single-chamber PM, LV end-systolic volume index (LVESVI), and mild MR (vs no MR) at baseline were independently associated with the development of significant MR. Prespecified endpoints occurred in 143 patients (31.7%) during median follow-up of 5.4 years [IQR: 3.0-8.1 years] after PM implantation. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with significant MR after PM implantation had a significantly higher incidence of endpoints than those without. (Figure) Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the development of significant MR, age, male gender, and diabetes mellitus were independently associated with the occurrence of the combined endpoints. The development of significant MR had significant incremental prognostic value for the composite endpoints over the multivariate models including a decrease in LV ejection fraction of ≥ 10% (p = 0.008) or an increase in LVESVI of ≥ 20% (p = 0.016) after PM implantation. Conclusions The development of significant MR occurred in 131 patients after PM implantation. The development of significant MR was independently associated with cardiac events, and its prognostic value was also significant even when included in models including a decrease in LV ejection fraction or an increase in LVESVI after PM implantation.Figure:Kaplan-Meier Curve

First month global longtudinal strain for predicting early pacemaker-induced left ventricular dysfunction (PIVD) six month after pacemaker implantation

Abstract Background Pacemaker-induced ventricular dysfunction (PIVD) and pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) emerged as a complication following right ventricular permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation, showing a great occurrence in the first year. Finding an early predictor of PIVD and PICM is crucial in order to alleviate mortality, morbidity, and increase health-care cost efficiency. Purposes to find new predictor by analyzing effect of first month GLS using 2D-speckle tracking echocardiography and reduction of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), known as PIVD, in the first 6 month after PPM implantation. Methods A single center, prospective cohort study was conducted to all patients with normal LVEF, indicated for PPM implantation. Data of GLS was measured before and after one month of PPM implantation. Data of LVEF was measured before and six month after PPM implantation. The change of GLS in one month after PPM implantation was measured as delta GLS, and the change of LVEF in six month was measured as delta EF. Results Fifty-three patients from May 2018 until October 2020 was enrolled for this study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patient’s baseline characteristics show 62±14 years of age, most of them had hypertension (54.7%) and had single chamber pacemaker implantation (81.1%). Study analysis reveals that ejection fraction (EF) reduce significantly after six months pacemaker implantation (66,5±5,6% become 60,7±10.7%; p= &amp;lt;0,00001). There were 6 patients (11.3 % ) suffering PICM. Correlation analysis between the change of GLS in the first month and the change of LVEF in the first six months after PPM implantation was statistically significant with moderate correlation (p&amp;lt;0.00001; r= -0.486). Linear regression analysis shows that every 1 point decrease of first month GLS, affecting 1.83 point decrease of sixth month LVEF (b= -0.1837, p=&amp;lt;0.00001). Conclusion There is significant moderate correlation between the change of GLS in the first month and early reduction of LVEF in the first 6 months after PPM implantation.The Scheme of Research Sampling Method

Abstract 13856: Echocardiographic Findings in Women With Ischemic Sudden Cardiac Death

Background: Majority of sudden cardiac deaths (SCD) are caused by coronary artery disease (CAD). Many women who experience SCD do not exhibit the traditional risk factors associated with SCD, which poses challenges in terms of SCD prevention and prediction. The data of SCD in women are limited as women are often underrepresented in SCD studies. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate sex-specific echocardiographic findings in subjects with ischemic SCD. Methods: The study group consisted of 4392 subjects with ischemic SCD (20.2 % women) derived from the FinGesture study. The cause of death was determined at medicolegal autopsy. Pre-SCD echocardiography (ECHO) reports were collected from medical records. Ventricular and atrial dimensions as well as left ventricular mass (LVM) were categorized by using widely accepted thresholds. LVM was calculated using the LVM formula (LV Mass = (0.8 * [1.04 * ((LVEDD + IVSd + PWd) 3 - LVEDD 3 )]) + 0.6)). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was classified into four categories: normal (&gt;55 %), mildly reduced (45-55 %), moderately reduced (35-45 %) and severely reduced (&lt;35 %). ECHO reports were available for 325 SCD victims (20.3 % women). Results: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was prevalent in 84.6 % of women and 76.4 % of men (p = 0.440). A thickened interventricular septum was observed in the majority of subjects in both sexes (84.8 % in women vs. 85.9 % in men, p = 1.000). Similarly, an enlarged left atrium was commonly found in both women (70.2 %) and men (72.3 %) (p = 0.856). The prevalence of dilated left ventricular end-diastolic diameter was 27.3 % in women and 30.1 % in men (p = 0.651). Overall, no significant differences were observed between the sexes in sex-adjusted ventricular or atrial dimensions. However, women with ischemic SCD were more likely to have a normal LVEF compared to men (63.4 % in women vs. 45.5 % in men, p &lt;0.001). Additionally, the prevalence of severely reduced LVEF was significantly lower in women than in men (5.4 % in women vs. 15.9 % in men, p = 0.005). Conclusions: LVH is a common finding in subjects with ischemic SCD. Women with ischemic SCD are less likely than men to have severely reduced LVEF prior to SCD. Additionally, in women, ischemic SCD tends to occur more often without a decrease in LVEF.

Abstract 16432: Screening for Cardiovascular Complications in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients

Introduction: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) carries a risk of cardiovascular morbidity, with reported incidences of pericardial effusion, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Screening for cardiovascular complications in children undergoing HSCT may be essential, but its utility remains unexplored. Hypothesis: Screening HSCT children using echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) can detect cardiovascular complications associated with adverse outcomes in this population. Methods: This prospective single-center cohort study analyzed children undergoing HSCT over a 2-year period. Baseline, 7-day, and 30-day echocardiograms and BNP levels were obtained. Multilevel linear regression assessed changes in echocardiograms and BNP. Logistic regression determined associations between cardiac complications and outcomes. Results: The study included 43 patients, with a median age of 8.6 years (IQR 3.7, 14.6). Echocardiograms were obtained at baseline (n=43), day+7 (n=34), and day+30 (n=25). BNP levels were obtained at baseline (n=41), day+7 (n=34), and day+30 (n=12). Adverse outcomes included TMA (n=7), endothelial dysfunction (n=36), mechanical ventilation (n=8), and death (n=8). Pericardial effusion was the most common finding (n=2(6%) at day+7, n=4(16%) at day+30). Pericardial effusion at either day+7 or day+30 predicted death (OR 15.7, 95% CI 1.8-137, p=0.013) and TMA (OR 13.1, 95% CI 1.7-103, p=0.014). A 10% decrease in LVEF was observed in 6 (17%) of patients at day+7 and 2 (8%) at day+30, and was associated with reduced mortality (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0-0.6, p=0.009). The change in BNP level at day+7 was 7pg/mL (IQR 6, 66) and 5pg/mL (IQR 3, 20) at day+30. A 10 point increase in BNP carried an increased risk of endothelial dysfunction (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.3-263, p&lt;0.001). No patients developed PH. Conclusions: Cardiovascular complications are common after HSCT in children and carry diagnostic and prognostic significance. Further refinement of the screening protocol is necessary to determine the optimal timing of testing and assess its clinical utility.

Diagnostic and Prognostic Role of Left Ventricular Strain Imaging in Adults with Coarctation of aorta

The relative diagnostic and prognostic performance of left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) compared with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and the role of LVGLS for detecting the early stages of LV systolic dysfunction in adults with repaired coarctation of the aorta are unknown. This study aimed to address these knowledge gaps. We used a retrospective cohort study of adults with repaired coarctation of the aorta who underwent transthoracic echocardiogram (2003 to 2020). LV systolic function was assessed using LVEF (derived from volumetric analysis) and LVGLS (derived from speckle-tracking echocardiography). Of the 795 patients (age 36 ± 14years), the mean LVEF and LVGLS were 62 ± 11% and 21 ± 4%, respectively. The prevalence of LV systolic dysfunction was higher when assessed using LVGLS than using LVEF (20% vs 6%, p <0.001). Of 795 patients, 94 (12%) patients died, of which 75 (9%) died from cardiovascular causes. LVGLS provided more robust prognostic power in predicting the all-cause mortality than LVEF, as evidenced by a higher C-statistic (0.743, 95% confidence interval 0.730 to 0.755 vs 0.782, 95% confidence interval 0.771 to 0.792, p <0.001). Furthermore, patients with normal LVEF in the setting of reduced LVGLS had a higher risk of all-cause mortality (than patients with normal LVGLS and LVEF) and were at risk for a temporal decrease in LVEF during follow-up. These findings suggest that the use of LVGLS for risk stratification can help identify high-risk patients and provide opportunities for interventions, which would, in turn, improve clinical outcomes. Further studies are required to empirically test these postulates.

Abstract 17102: Establishing Outcome-Based Severity Partitions for LV Dilation

Background: The 2015 American Society of Echocardiography chamber quantification guideline 1 included healthy population-based normal controls for left ventricular (LV) size, but not severity partitions due to the lack of data to support mild, moderate, and severe categories. In this study, we propose using adverse outcomes to define “severe” in non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Methods: 778 adults with DCM were enrolled prospectively and underwent CMR from June 2012 to August 2020 at West China Hospital and followed for a median of 49 months 2 . 72 healthy Chinese adults served as controls. We evaluated “severe” increase in LV end-diastolic volume indexed to body surface area (EDVi), LVEDV/right ventricular (RV) EDV, and “severe” decrease in LV ejection fraction (EF) using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC) analysis based on cardiovascular outcome. We defined “moderate” as control mean +½ the standard deviation (SD) distance between control mean and “severe” and “mild” as between control mean +2 SD and “moderate”. Results: Of 778 participants, 190 experienced heart failure death, sudden cardiac death, or heart transplant. For LVEDVi, the “severe” dilation cut point was 184 mL/m 2 , 10.9 SD from control mean (71 ml/m 2 ). Thus, “moderate” dilation starts at 128 ml/m 2 (control mean +5.4 SD) and “mild” starts at 92 ml/m 2 (control mean +2 SD). The LVEDV/RVEDV ratio partitions are similar to RVEDV/LVEDV partitions for pulmonary arterial hypertension 3 . It is well known that LVEDVi and LVEF have sex-based differences with females having smaller hearts and higher EF 4 . the volume ratio is slightly lower in females as compared to the males (Table 1). Conclusion: Severity of LV dilation and dysfunction based on LVEDVi, LVEF, and LVEDV/RVEDV can be determined by finding upper limits of normal, using outcomes to determine “severe” category, and using the SD distance between severe and control mean to determine mild and moderate categories.

Abstract 13656: Effects of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and NYHA CHF Class on Baroreceptor Function in Congestive Heart Failure

Background: Autonomic dysfunction is an important component in congestive heart failure (CHF) pathophysiology. The combined effects of reduced ejection fraction and advanced CHF Class on baroreceptor function in CHF have not been well investigated. Methods: A single center prospective study included 118 consenting patients, 68.3 ± 14.2 years old, 50 females (42.3%), BMI of 30.1 ± 8.5 kg/m 2 , with histories of HTN in 97 (82.2%), CAD in 64 (54.2%), diabetes in 49 (41.5%), and COPD or asthma in 39 (33.1%). Class I or II CHF were documented in 32 (27.1%), class III in 53 (44.9%), and class IV in 33 (28%) patients. Mean LV EF was 44.5+/-13.9%, HFrEF was present in 41 (34.7%) patients. Baroreceptor function was assessed by measuring resting and lowest heart rates (HR) during voluntary breath holding. Results: Despite treatment with beta-adrenergic blockers in 92 (78%) and non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers in 7 (5.9%) patients, increased CHF class was associated with significantly increased resting (71.7 ± 14.4 bpm in Class I-II, 73.1 ± 13.6 bpm in Class III, and 80.8 ± 16.9 bpm in Class IV, p=0.027) and breath holding HR (68.9 ± 15.3 bpm in Class I-II, 69.9 ± 12.2 bpm in Class III, and 80 ± 16.1 bpm in Class IV, p=0.002). In addition, when compared to the rest of the cohort, HFrEF patients manifested with increased resting (80.9 ± 14.5 vs. 71.6 ± 14.6 bpm, p=0.001) and breath holding HR (77.6 ± 13.9 vs. 69.7 ± 14.7 bpm, p=0.006). In multivariate analysis, both increased CHF NYHA class and reduced LVEF retained statistically significant independent effects on resting (p=0.037 and p=0.001, respectively) and breath holding HR (p=0.005, each). Conclusion: Decreased LV ejection fraction and increased CHF class independently and significantly contribute to autonomic dysfunction in CHF patients. Heart rate changes indicating abnormal baroreceptor function in CHF patients are apparent despite treatment with medications affecting chronotropic response.

Effect of increase in heart rate after anthracycline chemotherapy on subsequent left ventricular dysfunction

BackgroundAnthracycline chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction is believed to be refractory to conventional pharmacological therapy and is associated with a poor prognosis. Increased heart rate (HR) is a known marker of cardiovascular outcomes for various categories of heart failure (HF). However, little interest has been expressed regarding increased HR after anthracycline chemotherapy. Aim of this study was to investigate the effect of increased HR soon after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy on subsequent left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) in cancer patients. MethodsWe studied 172 patients with breast cancer and malignant lymphoma with preserved LVEF (≥ 50 %) and sinus rhythm treated with anthracyclines. Electrocardiography was performed before and soon after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy (2.3 months), and echocardiography before and late after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy (10.5 months). ResultsHR significantly increased from 74.2 ± 14.2 bpm to 75.9 ± 13.2 bpm (P = 0.05) soon after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy, while LVEF subsequently significantly decreased from 65.3 ± 5.5 % to 62.4 ± 6.1 % (P < 0.01) late after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy. Patients whose HR increased ≥10 bpm subsequently showed a significantly greater decrease in LVEF than those whose HR increased <10 bpm [−4.9 % (−32.7 % - 10.8 %) vs. -2.2 % (−21.2 % - 12.9 %), p = 0.04]. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that an increase in HR soon after completion of anthracycline chemotherapy was independently associated with a subsequent decrease in LVEF (odds ratio: 1.022, 95 % confidential interval; 1.008–1.037, P = 0.002). ConclusionsOur findings may have a novel effect on the management of cancer patients scheduled for anthracycline chemotherapy.

Predicted Cardiac Toxicity in Daily Cone-Beam CT-Based Online Adaptive Stereotactic Partial Breast Irradiation with Decreased PTV Margins

Partial breast irradiation (PBI) targets a smaller volume over less time compared to whole breast radiation, but the organ-at-risk (OAR) sparing allowed by its large (up to 1 cm) PTV can be improved. The heart is sensitive to low doses with conventional fractionation and NTCP models have been created for heart substructures. We hypothesized that daily online adaptive stereotactic PBI (A-SPBI) IMRT with 3-mm PTV improves dosimetry and predicted cardiac toxicity risk. Patients treated with daily CBCT-based online A-SPBI IMRT were excluded if the minimum heart dose was <1 Gy. IMRT radiation plans with 3-mm PTV margins were recreated with 1-cm margins per the Florence APBI IMRT trial planning guideline. Dose statistics were converted to the equivalent doses in 2-Gy fractions (EQD2) using α/β = 3 for use in NTCP models and for comparison using paired t tests, with differences considered significant if p≤0.05. The table details heart, left anterior descending artery (LAD), and left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) EQD2 statistics for 4 left-sided and 4 right-sided 3-mm PTV plans and their 1-cm PTV replans. For 2 patients with non-zero LV V5, 9-year excess cumulative risk of acute coronary event was <0.001% for both margin sizes. No plan reached thresholds for increased risk of non-cardiac death, major adverse cardiac event, or >10% decrease in LV ejection fraction. Given the established relationship between low MHD and cardiac events, the significant decrease in MHD revealed in comparisons of 3-mm and 1-cm PTV A-SPBI plans of our first 8 patients is promising; we expect the forthcoming larger sample size to show significant differences in substructure doses. NTCP models created for non-IMRT breast plans and targets with higher heart exposure did not predict clinically-relevant differences in cardiac risk. NTCP model development for the low heart dose achieved with A-SPBI would define expected benefit in these patients; in their absence, daily adaptation should be considered in patients with unfavorable anatomy or cardiac risk factors.

Assessment of disturbed functions in patients with chronic heart failure using International classification of functioning ICF categories

BACKGROUND: The evaluation of impaired functions in patients with cardiac diseases is traditionally based on the clinical signs of the disease and instrumental hemodynamic parameters, without affecting all other disorders that occur with this pathology. The International classification of functioning is based on the functioning of the patient in his/her environment; therefore, a consistent assessment of the entire complex of impaired functions of the patient is appropriate, allowing for a more accurate formulation of the goals of rehabilitation and controlling the main stages of rehabilitation.&#x0D; AIM: To evaluate the International classification of functioning for assessing all impaired functions in patients with chronic heart failure.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 68 patients with decompensated chronic heart failure. The analyzed sample included patients with chronic heart failure stages 2B and 3 (NYHA classes IIIIV). The average patient age was 63.9 years, and the average disease duration was approximately 7 years. The sample was predominantly men (66.5%). The etiology of chronic heart failure was represented by uncontrolled arterial hypertension (92%), post-infarction cardiosclerosis (74%), ischemic cardiomyopathy (25%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (12%). Radiation diagnostic methods were used to confirm the severity of cardiac decompensation. The study assessed impaired functions in accordance with the domains of the International classification of functioning, mainly in functions of the cardiovascular system.&#x0D; RESULTS: In this study, 68 patients had decompensated chronic heart failure stages 2B and 3 (NYHA classes IIIIV). Group 1 included 40 patients, and group 2 included 28 patients. The instrumental examination revealed a more pronounced decrease in left-ventricular ejection fraction in group 1 compared with group 2 (42.84.4 and 49.25.6, respectively), showing a significant difference (p 0.05). Other hemodynamic parameters did not differ significantly in the groups. In the analysis of a basic set of the International classification of functioning domains for patients with chronic heart failure, the following domains turned out to be the most significant: heart function (b410), forced myocardial contraction (b4102); heart rate (b4100); blood supply to the heart (b4103); blood pressure functions (b420): increase (b4200), decrease (b4201), maintenance (b4202); functions of the respiratory system (b440) including the respiratory rate (b4400); additional functions and sensations from the cardiovascular and respiratory systems (b450-469); exercise tolerance functions (b455); water balance (b5450), including water retention (b45500), characterizing the presence of edematous syndrome; and muscle strength functions (b730). The indicated domains were also supplemented with Section d (activity and participation) walking long distances (d4501) and doing housework (d640); and Domain e (environmental factors), i.e., help from the next of kin (e310).&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: A set of domains of the International classification of functioning for patients with decompensated heart failure has been developed and proposed, which makes it possible to more effectively identify the key problems of people with disability and more objectively form a plan for complex rehabilitation, which largely determines the prognosis in these patients.

Pacing-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with permanent right ventricular pacing and preserved left ventricle systolic function: characteristics, methods of treatment and prevention

The aim – to determine the frequency of occurrence and describe the characteristics of pacing-induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) in patients with permanent right ventricular pacing (at least 90 %) and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (≥ 50 %).Materials and methods. The study included 34 patients with indications for permanent ventricular pacing who had pacemaker implantation from 2012 to 2022 (mean follow-up period was 44.97±28.45 months). PICM was defined as a decrease in LVEF &lt; 45 % during follow-up.Results and discussion. The incidence of PICM in this study was 26 %. The average value of LVEF and EDI at the time of the control follow-up was significantly different in the PICM group and non-PICM group: 38.6±5.9 vs. 53.5±5.7 % (p&lt;0.001) and 97.90±20.75 vs. 60.90±19.32 ml/m2 (p&lt;0.001). All patients from the study group during follow-up went through protocol echocardiography, at which intraventricular and interventricular asynchrony were examined, the number of left ventricular segments with reduced deformation were fixed, and the global longitudinal deformation of the left ventricle (GLS) was calculated. The values of these parameters differed significantly in the PICM group and non-PICM group: intraventricular asynchrony was 261.1±61.0 vs. 146.1±62.8 ms (p&lt;0.001), interventricular asynchrony 91.0±36.4 vs. 54.2±22.2 ms (p=0.014), the number of segments with reduced deformation 8.1±2.6 vs. 3.91±2.30 (p&lt;0.001), GLS -9.7±2.6 vs. -14.9±3.4 (p&lt;0.001). At the time of the follow-up examination, sensitivity on ventricular lead in the PICM group was significantly reduced compared to patients with preserved LVEF (6.26±4.02 vs. 11.56±3.86 mV; p=0.045). The paced QRS width in the PICM group was significantly greater (163.0±22.7 vs. 150.8±14.5; p=0.046) and there were more patients with rate-adapted cardiac pacing in the PICM group (4 (40 %) vs. 2 (8 %)), p=0.0305).Conclusions. According to the obtained data, cardiomyopathy due to right ventricular pacing develops rather instantaneously in the first years after PM implantation, rather than slowly progressing over time, although a multivariate regression analysis of risk factors for the development of PICM has yet to be performed on the obtained clinical data. Biventri­­­cular paicng effectively eliminates the consequences of non-physiological right ventricular myocardial paicng, improves LV systolic function. Conduction system pacing may potentially reduce the risk of right ventricular pacing-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with preserved LVEF.

Medication guide for dose adjustment and management of cardiotoxicity and lipid metabolic adverse events of oral antineoplastic therapy.

The management of cardiotoxicity concerning the use of oral antineoplastic agents (OAAs) is a challenge for healthcare professionals. Our objective was to create a comprehensive medication management guide with dose adjustment recommendations on OAAs concerning cardiotoxic and lipid metabolic adverse events (AEs) to assist healthcare professionals when prescribing OAAs. A review of the available information on all dose adjustments necessary to safely prescribe and dispense OAAs concerning cardiotoxicity was conducted. In January 2023, we identified all OAAs authorized by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). For each drug, the latest summary of product characteristics (SPC) approved by the EMA and the tertiary data source Lexicomp® were reviewed. Cardiotoxic AEs were recorded, namely, QT interval prolongation, decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), imbalances in blood pressure (hypertension and hypotension), alterations in heart rate (tachycardia and bradycardia), and thrombosis. Any available dose adjustment recommendations in case of an occurrence of these adverse events were collected. In all, 93 different OAAs had been approved by the EMA and were reviewed. Among them, 51.6% have recognized cardiotoxic AEs and 10.8% can cause alterations in lipid metabolism. A total of 27 (29.0%) OAAs had specific recommendations regarding QT prolongation; 88.9% were listed in the SPC and 59.3% in Lexicomp®. Eight OAAs (9.68%) have reported a decrease in LVEF, and four of these drugs, namely, encorafenib, lorlatinib, ripretinib, and sunitinib, have specific management recommendations. Almost half (49.5%) of currently approved OAAs can potentially alter blood pressure; 34 (36.6%) of them have been reported to cause hypertension and 12 (12.9%) are related to hypotension. Tachycardia and/or bradycardia are associated with 22.6% and 8.6% of the evaluated drugs, respectively. Regarding thrombosis, 30 (32.3%) of the drugs analyzed included the appearance of a thrombus as a possible AE. More than half of the OAAs can produce cardiotoxic effects, with the most frequent being blood pressure alteration and QT interval prolongation with a non-depreciable incidence of LV dysfunction or thrombosis. Before starting the treatment, it is necessary to stratify baseline cardiovascular risk, plan a surveillance schedule, and consider referral to cardio-oncology units.

The impact of COVID-19 infection on heart transplant function

BackgroundHeart transplant recipients are a subset of immunocompromised patients at particularly high risk of morbidity and mortality from COVID-19. Acute effects of the viral infection have been well-described in the literature but the chronic effects persisting after recovery from infection have not. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of COVID-19 on heart transplant function both during and after recovery from acute infection.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the data of 32 heart transplant recipients at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). Echocardiograms of patients with documented COVID-19 infection were analyzed at three time points including pre-infection, peri-infection, and post-infection. Echocardiograms of patients without history of infection were analyzed as control. Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) and presence or absence of valvular insufficiency were collected from echocardiograms to assess systolic and valvular function.Results2 out of 10 COVID-19 positive heart transplant recipients had decreases in LVEF below 20% during the peri-infection period, and one of these patients passed away from complications of infection. Despite this, mean LVEF was not significantly different at peri-infection (p = .3, 95% CI − 11.5 to 27.6) or post-infection (p = .6, 95% CI − 3.6 to 5.8) time points when compared to pre-infection. A statistically significant increase in valvular dysfunction was found among COVID-19 positive patients without documented history of valvular dysfunction on pre-infection echocardiograms (p = .01, 95% CI 19.3% to 96.4%). COVID-19 negative heart transplant recipients did not experience statistically significant changes in LVEF 1, 2, or 3 years after baseline echocardiogram.ConclusionCOVID-19 may induce myocardial dysfunction resulting in decreased systolic function and valvular dysfunction among heart transplant recipients. Severity of systolic dysfunction may be a useful prognostic indicator among this patient population. More research must be conducted to fully elucidate the effects of COVID-19 infection on heart transplant recipients.