Left Ventricular Sphericity Index Research Articles

Left Ventricular Geometry and Replacement Fibrosis Detected by cMRI Are Associated with Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

To investigate the relationship between left ventricular (LV) long-axis strain (LAS) and LV sphericity index (LVSI) and outcomes in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) and myocardial replacement fibrosis confirmed by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI), we conducted a prospective study on 178 patients (48 ± 14.4 years; 25.2% women) with first NIDCM diagnosis. The evaluation protocol included ECG monitoring, echocardiography and cMRI. LAS and LVSI were cMRI-determined. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) were defined as a composite outcome including heart failure (HF), ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). After a median follow-up of 17 months, patients with LGE+ had increased risk of MACEs. Kaplan-Meier curves showed significantly higher rate of MACEs in patients with LGE+ (p < 0.001), increased LVSI (p < 0.01) and decreased LAS (p < 0.001). In Cox analysis, LAS (HR = 1.32, 95%CI (1.54–9.14), p = 0.001), LVSI [HR = 1.17, 95%CI (1.45–7.19), p < 0.01] and LGE+ (HR = 1.77, 95%CI (2.79–12.51), p < 0.0001) were independent predictors for MACEs. In a 4-point risk scoring system based on LV ejection fraction (LVEF) < 30%, LGE+, LAS > −7.8% and LVSI > 0.48%, patients with 3 and 4 points had a significantly higher risk for MACEs. LAS and LVSI are independent predictors of MACEs and provide incremental value beyond LVEF and LGE+ in patients with NIDCM and myocardial fibrosis.

Left Ventricular Sphericity Index is a reproducible bedside echocardiographic measure of geometric change between acute phase Takotsubo's syndrome and acute anterior myocardial infarction.

•TS and AMI are separate cardiac conditions with similar clinical presentations.•TS have a higher LVSI than AMI, indicating a more spherical left ventricle.•LVSI may be utilised acutely to assist differentiation of acute phase TS and AMI.

372 Left Ventricular Sphericity Index is a Predictor of Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Anterior Transmural Myocardial Infarction but not in Takotsubo Syndrome

Left ventricular sphericity index (LVSI) is a simple measure to evaluate changes in left ventricular (LV) geometry. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prognostic role of LVSI in patients with Takotsubo Syndrome (TS) and Anterior Myocardial Infarction (AMI). Consecutive patients with TS admitted to our institution in the period of Jan 2013 to Dec 2018 were evaluated (n=66). Patients with complete two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiograms were included in analysis (n=49) and matched with a cohort of AMI (n=50). Appraisal of demographic, clinical and echocardiographic parameters of patients was undertaken, and patients were followed for the composite outcome of cardiovascular death, heart failure and arrhythmia. Biplane SI was calculated as an average of the short- and long-axis length in the 4- and 2-chamber apical views. TS patients (64.3±13.7 years, 92% female) were followed for a median of 25.6 months, with a total of 9 patients reaching a primary outcome. LVSI was not predictive of cardiovascular outcomes for patients with TS (p=0.34). Patients with anterior STEMI (62.10±12.84 years, 73% male) were followed up for a median of 29.06 months with 9 patients reaching a primary outcome. In the AMI group, there was a significant association between LVSI and composite primary outcomes (p=0.04). LVSI is reflective of geometric changes in the left ventricle and is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes in patients with AMI but not TS (likely secondary to the reversible nature of TS). LVSI may be an important prognostication tool for patients with AMI.

P1477 Features of structural and functional parameters of the right and left heart and their relationship with the spirometry parameters in patients with CHF of ischemic genesis with COPD

Abstract Purpose Сomparative analysis of structural and functional parameters of the heart, the state of external respiration in patients with CHF II-III FC of ischemic genesis in the absence and in combination with moderate to severe COPD. Material and methods The study included patients aged 65.6 ± 3.9 years with LVEF ≤ 45% (according to Simpson). The first group consisted of 87 patients with CHF of ischemic genesis, and the second group - 385 patients with CHF of ischemic genesis and coexisted COPD. All patients were evaluated for clinical condition, TTE, the study of respiratory function with bronchodilation test. Results Patients of both groups were comparable by sex, age, FC CHF (NYHA). In patients with COPD, linear and volumetric LV parameters exceeded the normal values and were significantly higher than in CHF patients without COPD. LVIMM, LV sphericity index were significantly higher in the group of patients with COPD, which is associated with more pronounced remodeling of the left heart. Correlation analysis showed direct moderate and reliable relationships between the RVIDd (internal end-diastolic diameter) and MPAP (r = 0.68, p &amp;lt; 0.01), RVIDd and LVSV (stroke volume) and FEV1 (r = 0.38, p &amp;lt; 0.05), FEV1 and LVMMI (r = 0.33, p &amp;lt; 0.05), FVC and LVMMI (r = 0.34, p &amp;lt; 0.05), LVEF and FEV1 (r = 0.44, p &amp;lt; 0.05) and VC (lung vital capacity) (r = 0.36, p &amp;lt; 0.05). Negative correlations were found between low-level FEV1 and RVIDd (r=-0.29, p &amp;lt; 0.05), FEV1 and SatO2 (r = 0.28, p &amp;lt; 0.05), and a strong degree between MPAP and FEV1 (r=-0.55, p &amp;lt; 0.05), moderate between MPAP and FEF75 (r=-0.57, p &amp;lt; 0.05). In patients with COPD more pronounced significant increases in RVIDd, MPAP, RA dimension were noted. In patients of this group (n = 385), the IVRT and time of deceleration during the early diastolic filling (DTE) of RV increased more significantly. RV diastolic dysfunction in patients with CHF with COPD may be due to slower relaxation of the right ventricular hypertrophy and an increase in afterload (evidenced by the relationship between the velocity of early diastolic filling (E) of the RV and the thickness of the anterior wall of the RV; the velocity of late filling (A) of the RV and MPAP (r= 0.3, p &amp;lt; 0.05)). Conclusion In patients with CHF of ischemic genesis with COPD, a more pronounced remodeling of the left and right parts of the heart was noted, reliable interrelationships of respiratory function indicators and structural and functional parameters of both the left and right ventricles of the heart were revealed.

P1439 Familial dilated cardiomyopathy: assessment of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function by echocardiogram in asymptomatic patients

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Alfonso X El Sabio University Introduction Familial dilated cardiomyopathy (fDCM) represents 20% to 30% of idiopathic DCM (iDCM) ethiology. The assessment of cardiac function of these patients is awfully complex. Usually, myocardial fiber damages can not be detected in the early DCM stages. In this sense echocardiogram could be useful to detect incipient changes. Purpose The aim of this study was to characterize the systolic function of asymptomatic fDCM, compared within iDCM and control patients. Material and methods This study was carried out in 33 fDCM patients. A total of 4 fDCM families with LMNA gene mutation and 3 fDCM families with BLC2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) mutation were recruited. Moreover, a total of 30 iDCM and 66 healthy matched controls were enrolled in the study. Results 58.14% were male. The average age was 45.3 ± 17 years. 72% showed sinus rhythm. Left bundle branch block (LBBB) was observed in 7.8% of patients. The LV ejection fraction (LVEF), sphericity index and mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE), were significantly improved in the fDCM patients compared to iDCM subjects. However, these parameters were aggravated compared with healthy controls. LVEF was enhanced in fDCM in contrast to iDCM (56% versus 35%; P &amp;lt; 0.001). Nevertheless, LVEF value was deteriorated in fDCM compared to healthy controls (56% versus 65%; P &amp;lt; 0.001). The values of septal and lateral annulus early diastolic velocity measured by DTI, were also diminished. All results are presented in Table 1. Conclusions Asymptomatic fDCM shown an intermediate value of LVEF between the iDCM and the control group. This ventricular remodeling process could be the consequence of a slight increase in the end-systolic diameter. Patients Characteristics Patients Characteristics iDCM 30 patients fDCM 33 patients Control Group 66 Healthy P LVEF 32 (29.78-40) 56.0 (39.7-64.2) 65 (62-69.5) 0.001 EDD 62.5 (59.2-65.7) 53.7 (45.7-57.6) 45.50 (43-48.8) 0.001 ESD 53 (47-58.75) 36 (30.9-54.2) 27.9 (24-31) 0.001 MAPSE 11 (10-12.50) 14 (14-18) 19 (17-20) 0.001 Sphericity index 0.70 (0.66–0.79) 0.69 (0.66-0.79) 0.53 (0.48-58) 0.001 LA volume 61.5 (57-75.1) 32 (23-46.5) 17 (14.2-20) NS Septal annulus Early diastolic Velocity (cm/s) DTI 3.5 (3-4.2) 7.5 (1.6-8.8) 9 (7.9-11) 0.001 Lateral annulus Early diastolic Velocity (cm/s) DT 7.2 (5-8.9) 9.5 (1.8-11.8) 13 (10.37-15) 0.001 Table1. Echocardiografic findings in patients. LVEF: left ventricular ejection fraction; EDD: end-diastolic diameter; ESD: end systolic diameter; MAPSE:mitral annular plane systoluc excursion; LA: left atrium; TDI: Tissue Doppler imagin. Abstract P1439 Figure. Familial dilated cardiomyopathy

P5581In patients with aortic valve regurgitation, left ventricular geometry and strain, more than pulmonary artery systolic pressure, affect right ventricular function

Abstract Background Left ventricular (LV) overload due to aortic valve (AR) regurgitation may affect right ventricular (RV) function. Elevation of pulmonary artery pressures secondary to isolated AR is not common. Thus, the effects of chronic LV overload due to AR on RV function remains to be clarified. Purpose To assess the determinants of RV dysfunction in chronic AR. Methods We studied 36 patients with moderate or severe AR (53±18 years, 81% were men). We used 3D echocardiography to acquire multi-beat, full-volume data sets of LV and RV and to measure volumes and EF. RV fractional area change (FAC) was calculated. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and RV peak longitudinal strain (RVLS) were assessed by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography. Results RV EF and RV FAC were 40±6% and 34±9%. LV GLS and peak RVLS were reduced (Table). LV EDVi showed negative correlations with RV function (RV EF: r=−0.545, p&lt;0.001; RV FAC: r=−0.816, p&lt;0.001). LV sphericity index showed negative correlations with RV function (RVFAC: r=−0.608, P=0.001; RV EF: r=−0.469, P=0.004). Moreover, LV GLS and RVLS correlated positively with RV function (FAC: for GLS: r=0.475, p=0.003 and for RVLS: r=0.389, p=0.019) (RV EF: for GLS: r=0.526, p=0.001 and for RVLS: r=0.475, p=0.003). On multivariable linear regression analysis, LV EDVi, LV sphericity index, LV GLS and peak RVLS were found to be the only independent predictors of RV EF and FAC. Left and right ventricular volumes and function in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation AR (n=36) Control (n=25) p value LV end-diastolic volume (ml/m2) 106±36 56±8 &lt;0.001 LV end-systolic volume (ml/m2) 50±28 22±4 &lt;0.001 LV ejection fraction (%) 54±10 60±4 &lt;0.001 LV sphericity index 0.53±0.11 0.38±0.08 &lt;0.001 Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (mm Hg) 27±8 RV end-diastolic volume (ml/m2) 59±12 35±7 &lt;0.001 RV end-systolic volume (ml/m2) 31±9 17±3 &lt;0.001 RV ejection fraction (%) 40±6 50±4 &lt;0.001 RV fractional area change (%) 34±9 44±6 &lt;0.001 LV GLS (%) −18±3 21±1 &lt;0.001 Peak RVLS (%) −26±5 −31±3 &lt;0.001 Conclusions RV remodeling in chronic LV overload due to AR occurs independent on PASP values. LV size, shape and strain are the only independent predictors of RV function.

Hemodynamic factors associated with fetal cardiac remodeling in late fetal growth restriction: a prospective study.

Background Altered cardiac geometry affects a proportion of fetuses with growth restriction (FGR). The aim of this study was to explore the hemodynamic factors associated with cardiac remodeling in late FGR. Methods This was a prospective study of singleton pregnancies complicated by late-onset FGR undergoing assessment of left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular sphericity-index (SI). The study population was divided in two groups according to the presence of cardiac remodelling, defined as LVSI <5th centile. The following outcomes were explored: gestational age at birth, birthweight, caesarean section (CS) for fetal distress, umbilical artery (UA) pH and neonatal admission to special care unit. The differences between the 2 groups in UA pulsatility index (PI), middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI, uterine artery PI, cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) and umbilical vein (UV) flow corrected for fetal abdominal circumference (UVBF/AC) were tested. Results In total, 212 pregnancies with late FGR were enrolled in the study. An abnormal LV SI was detected in 119 fetuses (56.1%). Late FGR fetuses with cardiac remodeling had a lower birthweight (2390 g vs. 2490; P = 0.04) and umbilical artery pH (7.21 vs. 7.24; P = 0.04) and were more likely to have emergency CS (42.8% vs. 26.9%; P = 0.023) and admission to special care unit (13.4% vs. 4.3%; P = 0.03) compared to those with normal LVSI. No difference in either UA PI (p = 0.904), MCA PI (P = 0.575), CPR (P = 0.607) and mean uterine artery PI (P = 0.756) were present between fetuses with or without an abnormal LV SI. Conversely, UVBF/AC z-score was lower (-1.84 vs. -0.99; P ≤ 0.001) in fetuses with cardiac remodeling and correlated with LV (P ≤ 0.01) and RV SI (P ≤ 0.02). Conclusion Fetal cardiac remodelling occurs in a significant proportion of pregnancies complicated by late FGR and is affected by a high burden of short-term perinatal compromise. The occurrence of LV SI is independent from fetal arterial Dopplers while it is positively associated with umbilical vein blood flow.

Echocardiographic assessment of Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony in Hypertensive Patients with Normal Systolic Function

Background: Normal Left Ventricular systolic function is present in nearly 50% of patients with congestive heart failure, the majority of such patients have systemic hypertension. Recent studies have demonstrated Left Ventricular dyssynchrony among patients with heart failure and normal systolic function. The co-existence between Left Ventricular dyssynchrony and hypertension with normal systolic function (with no clinical evidence of heart failure) is less well understood.&#x0D; Objective:&#x0D; To assess the Left Ventricular dyssynchrony among hypertensive patients with normal systolic function by using Tissue doppler imaging.To find out the associations between the LV dyssynchrony and other global echocardiographic findings like (LA volume index, LVmassindex , LV sephericity and LV filling pressure E/E`)&#x0D; Type of the study: Prospective case- control study&#x0D; Methods: The study conducted in Baghdad Teaching Hospital from 1st of June 2015 to 30th of May 2016 .Study included two groups of people, 40 patients, age_ matched healthy (control) group (group1) and 60 patients with established hypertension (group 2). A Complete 2-D and TDI echocardiography studies with simultaneous ECG were performed for all patients. Examination involved LV septal and posterior wall thicknesses, internal dimensions, left atrial size, ejection fraction and tissue doppler derived waves velocities E', E/E.' Dyssynchrony was determined by measuring T-P max ( the maximal time difference from the onset of QRS to peak systolic velocity on TDI between any opposing LV wall in 3 apical views) .&#x0D; Results: The study included 40 age –matched control people, 27males (67.5%) and 13 females (32.5%) with a male to female ratio was 1.8 :1, ranging from (42.4-58y) with mean age was (50.2 ±7.8y ) (group 1) and 60 hypertensive patients, 38 males (63.3%) and 22 females (36.7%) with a male to female ratio was 1.7 :1, ranging from (48.5- 66.5y) with mean age of (57.5± 9.0 y) (group 2) . Left Ventricular dyssynchrony was identified in 20 of 60 patients (33.3%) .Dyssynchrony had no significant association with age and BSA. But it was significantly associated with LA volume index (r = 0.61, p=0.001), LV mass index(r=0.52 ,p=0.001) , LV sphericity index (r= 0.5, p = 0.003) ) and LV filling pressure(r=0.6 , p value=0.001) . Dyssynchrony had significant negative correlation with ( E`) velocity (r= - 0.7 ,P =0.001) .&#x0D; Conclusion: Left Ventricular dyssynchrony is frequent among hypertensive patients with normal LV systolic function .The Left Ventricular dyssynchrony is significantly related to LA volume, LV mass, LV sphericity and LV filling pressure.

Left ventricular sphericity index analysis for the prediction of appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is the most effective therapy currently available to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Although LV ejection fraction (LVEF) is an excellent marker of SCD in these patients, determining other predictors might help to identify patients who will be benefit more from device implantation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether abnormal LV sphericity index (SI) in transthoracic echocardiography is associated with appropriate ICD therapy in these patients. A total of 140 patients with primary ICD implantation (mean age 62.59±11.36years; 98 [70%] male) were included. The patients were classified into "no ICD therapy" or "ICD therapy" group according to the information of their devices for a maximum of 2 previous years. In four-chamber view image of transthoracic echocardiography, SI was calculated by dividing the major-axis dimension to minor-axis dimension of LV in both groups. Compared with patients with no ICD therapy, patients in ICD therapy group had lower LVEF (31.36±9.58vs 23.24±6.03, P=0.0001) and lower SI (1.79±0.29vs 1.57±0.32, P=0.0001). In multivariant logistic regression analysis, the SI of ≤1.58 was associated with fourfold increase of appropriate ICD therapy, even after adjusting for LVEF (odds ratio, 4.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.71-9.75; P=0.02). Simple echocardiographic sphericity dimension index as a marker of cardiac remodeling may be an important predictor of appropriate ICD therapy in patients with primary prevention ICDs and may provide additive risk stratification in patients with LV systolic dysfunction.

Influence of vagal control on sex-related differences in left ventricular mechanics and hemodynamics.

Left ventricular (LV) twist mechanics differ between men and women during acute physiological stress, which may be partly mediated by sex differences in autonomic control. While men appear to have greater adrenergic control of LV twist, the potential contribution of vagal modulation to sex differences in LV twist remains unknown. Therefore, the present study examined the role of vagal control on sex differences in LV twist during graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) and supine cycling. On two separate visits, LV mechanics were assessed using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in 18 men (22 ± 2 yr) and 17 women (21 ± 4 yr) during -40- and -60-mmHg LBNP and 25% and 50% of peak supine cycling workload with and without glycopyrrolate (vagal blockade). LV twist was not different at baseline but was greater in women during -60 mmHg in both control (women: 16.0 ± 3.4° and men: 12.9 ± 2.3°, P = 0.004) and glycopyrrolate trials (women: 17.7 ± 5.9° and men: 13.9 ± 3.3°, P < 0.001) due to greater apical rotation during control (women: 11.9 ± 3.6° and men: 7.8 ± 1.5°, P < 0.001) and glycopyrrolate (women: 11.6 ± 4.9° and men: 7.1 ± 3.6°, P = 0.009). These sex differences in LV twist consistently coincided with a greater LV sphericity index (i.e., ellipsoid geometry) in women compared with men. In contrast, LV twist did not differ between the sexes during exercise with or without glycopyrrolate. In conclusion, women have augmented LV twist compared with men during large reductions to preload, even during vagal blockade. As such, differences in vagal control do not appear to contribute to sex differences in the LV twist responses to physiological stress, but they may be related to differences in ventricular geometry. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to specifically examine the role of vagal autonomic control on sex-related differences in left ventricular (LV) mechanics. Contrary to our hypothesis, vagal control does not appear to primarily determine sex differences in LV mechanical or hemodynamic responses to acute physiological stress. Instead, differences in LV geometry may be a more important contributor to sex differences in LV mechanics.

Papillary muscles contribute significantly more to left ventricular work in dilated hearts.

Left ventricular (LV) dilatation results in increased sphericity and affects position and orientation of papillary muscles (PMs), which may influence their performed work. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of PM to LV function and its changes with dilatation. Fifteen sheep were investigated. Ten animals were subjected to 8 weeks of rapid (180 bpm) pacing, inducing LV dilatation. Five animals served as controls. High-resolution gated computed tomography was performed to assess LV volumes, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), sphericity index, and PM angle, width and fractional shortening. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) was used to measure glucose metabolism as surrogate of regional myocardial work. Spatial resolution of PET images was maximized by electrocardiogram- and respiratory-gating. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake was measured in PM and compared with remaining left ventricular myocardium (MYO) to obtain a PM/MYO ratio. Animals with dilated heart had a more spherical left ventricle, with reduced LVEF (P < 0.0001) and GLS (P < 0.0001). In dilated hearts, PET analysis revealed a higher contribution of both PM to LV myocardial work (P < 0.0001); and PM angle towards LV wall correlated with PM work, together with PM width and the LV sphericity index. Sphericity index and posterior PM angle were strongest determinants of posterior PM/MYO ratio (R2 = 0.754; P < 0.0001), while anterior PM/MYO was mostly determined by sphericity index and the PM width (R2 = 0.805; P < 0.0001). In dilated hearts, PM contribute relatively more to LV myocardial work. We hypothesize that this is caused by the more cross-sectional orientation of the subvalvular apparatus, which leads to a higher stress on the PM compared with the spherical LV walls. The reduced cross-sectional area of the PM may further explain their increased stress.

Usefulness of three-dimensional spherical index to assess different types of left ventricular remodeling: A meta-analysis.

Background:Left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial injury, volume or pressure overload is characterized by a change in LV shape from an ellipse to more of a sphere. The usefulness of 3-dimensional (3D) sphericity index (SpI) for accurate evaluation of LV remodeling remains uncertain despite extensive research.Methods:We searched Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases to identify relevant studies from January 1, 1990 to August 1, 2016. The quality of each study was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta regression and sensitivity and subgroup analyses based on patterns of LV remodeling were performed.Results:Thirteen studies with a total of 1064 patients were included in this meta-analysis. There was evidence of obvious heterogeneity (I2 = 82.4%; P < .001), which was mainly accounted for by the pattern of remodeling according to meta-regression. The result of subgroup meta-analyses suggested that SpI in patients with eccentric remodeling was significantly higher compared with control group (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.78–1.10). No statistic difference was found in LV SpI between healthy controls and patients with concentric hypertrophy (95% CI, −0.89 to 0.16) or myocardial injury (95% CI, −0.13 to 0.41).Conclusion:3D SpI can be widely used to assess LV remodeling in patients with eccentric remodeling, but has limitations in predicting concentric hypertrophy and regional or chronic myocardial injury.

Descriptive analysis of different phenotypes of cardiac remodeling in fetal growth restriction.

To identify different cardiac phenotypes among cases of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Echocardiography was performed in 126 cases with FGR (birth weight < 10th centile) and 64 appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) fetuses. Principal component and cluster analyses were performed to identify different cardiac phenotypes among FGR cases. Three different cardiac phenotypes were identified among the FGR group: globular in 54% of cases, elongated in 29% of cases and hypertrophic in 17% of cases. Those with a globular heart had the lowest median left-ventricular sphericity index (controls, 1.78 (interquartile range (IQR), 1.62-1.97); FGR elongated, 1.92 (IQR, 1.78-2.09); FGR globular, 1.44 (IQR, 1.36-1.52); FGR hypertrophic, 1.65 (IQR, 1.42-1.77); P = 0.001). FGR cases with an elongated left ventricle had nearly normal cardiac dimensions. FGR cases with a hypertrophic phenotype had the highest median left-ventricular wall thickness (controls, 1.22 (IQR, 1.10-1.67) mm/kg; FGR elongated, 1.52 (IQR, 1.28-1.86) mm/kg; FGR globular, 1.65 (IQR, 1.39-1.99) mm/kg; FGR hypertrophic, 3.68 (IQR, 3.45-4.71) mm/kg; P = 0.001) and cardiac dimensions. Globular and elongated phenotypes showed a fetoplacental profile of late-onset FGR, while the hypertrophic phenotype showed signs of early-onset FGR. The hypertrophic group also had the poorest perinatal results, having the lowest birth-weight centile, gestational age at delivery and Apgar score and the highest postnatal blood pressure and aorta intima-media thickness. FGR induces at least three different cardiac phenotypes, with early-onset FGR cases being associated with a hypertrophic response and worse perinatal outcomes. This cardiac phenotypic classification may improve identification of FGR cases with the highest perinatal and long-term cardiovascular risks. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Differential effect of assisted reproductive technology and small‐for‐gestational age on fetal cardiac remodeling

Fetuses conceived by assisted reproductive technology (ART) and those that are small-for-gestational age (SGA) show cardiovascular remodeling in utero; however, these two conditions are often associated. We aimed to evaluate the differential effect of ART and SGA on fetal cardiac remodeling. This was a prospective cohort study of term singleton pregnancies seen at our department between April 2011 and September 2013. The cohort was divided according to fetal growth and mode of conception into the following four groups: 102 appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) fetuses conceived spontaneously (controls), 72 AGA fetuses conceived by ART (ART-AGA), 31 SGA fetuses conceived by ART (ART-SGA) and 28 SGA fetuses conceived naturally (Spont-SGA). SGA was defined as birth weight < 10th centile. Fetal echocardiography was performed at 28-32 weeks to assess cardiac dimensions, geometry and function. ART fetuses had dilated atria (mean left atrium-to-heart area ratio: controls, 15 ± 2.7%; ART-AGA, 18 ± 4.1%; Spont-SGA, 14 ± 3.7%) and more globular ventricles (left ventricular sphericity index: controls, 1.77 ± 0.2; ART-AGA, 1.68 ± 0.2; Spont-SGA, 1.72 ± 0.2), with normally sized hearts. In contrast, SGA fetuses had enlarged hearts (cardiothoracic ratio: controls, 24 ± 3%; ART-AGA, 24 ± 4%; Spont-SGA, 29 ± 6%), preserved atrial size, more globular and concentric hypertrophic ventricles (left ventricle relative wall thickness: controls, 0.48 ± 0.17; ART-AGA, 0.54 ± 0.13; Spont-SGA, 0.63 ± 0.23). Both ART and SGA fetuses had decreased longitudinal motion (tricuspid annular ring displacement: controls, 6.5 ± 0.8 mm; ART-AGA, 5.5 ± 0.7 mm; Spont-SGA, 5.9 ± 0.6 mm) and impaired relaxation (left isovolumetric relaxation time: controls, 47.0 ± 7.3 ms; ART-AGA, 50.0 ± 7.9 ms; Spont-SGA, 49.5 ± 9.3 ms). ART-SGA fetuses presented a combination of features from both ART and SGA groups. SGA and conception with ART were associated with distinct patterns of fetal cardiac remodeling, supporting the concept that they are independent causes of cardiac programming. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The influence of adrenergic stimulation on sex differences in left ventricular twist mechanics.

Sex differences in left ventricular (LV) mechanics occur during acute physiological challenges; however, it is unknown whether sex differences in LV mechanics are fundamentally regulated by differences in adrenergic control. Using two-dimensional echocardiography and speckle tracking analysis, this study compared LV mechanics in males and females matched for LV length during post-exercise ischaemia (PEI) and β1 -adrenergic receptor blockade. Our data demonstrate that while basal rotation was increased in males, LV twist was not significantly different between the sexes during PEI. In contrast, during β1 -adrenergic receptor blockade, LV apical rotation, twist and untwisting velocity were reduced in males compared to females. Significant relationships were observed between LV twist and LV internal diameter and sphericity index in females, but not males. These findings suggest that LV twist mechanics may be more sensitive to alterations in adrenergic stimulation in males, but more highly influenced by ventricular structure and geometry in females. Sex differences in left ventricular (LV) mechanics exist at rest and during acute physiological stress. Differences in cardiac autonomic and adrenergic control may contribute to sex differences in LV mechanics and LV haemodynamics. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate sex differences in LV mechanics with altered adrenergic stimulation achieved through post-handgrip-exercise ischaemia (PEI) and β1 -adrenergic receptor (AR) blockade. Twenty males (23±5years) and 20 females (22±3years) were specifically matched for LV length (males: 8.5±0.5cm, females: 8.2±0.6cm, P=0.163), and two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography was used to assess LV structure and function at baseline, during PEI and following administration of 5mg bisoprolol (β1 -AR antagonist). During PEI, LV end-diastolic volume and stroke volume were increased in both groups (P<0.001), as was end-systolic wall stress (P<0.001). LV twist and apical rotation were not altered from baseline or different between the sexes; however, basal rotation increased in males (P=0.035). During β1 -AR blockade, LV volumes were unchanged but blood pressure and heart rate were reduced in both groups (P<0.001). LV apical rotation (P=0.036) and twist (P=0.029) were reduced in males with β1 -AR blockade but not females, resulting in lower apical rotation (males: 6.8±2.1deg, females: 8.8±2.3deg, P=0.007) and twist (males: 8.6±1.9deg, females: 10.7±2.8deg, P=0.008), and slower untwisting velocity (males: 68.2±22.1degs-1 , females: 82.0±18.7degs-1 , P=0.046) compared to females. LV twist mechanics are reduced in males compared to females during reductions to adrenergic stimulation, providing preliminary evidence that LV twist mechanics may be more sensitive to adrenergic control in males than in females.

Perinatal Changes in Fetal Ventricular Geometry, Myocardial Performance, and Cardiac Function in Normal Term Pregnancies

The fetal heart at term is exposed to an increase in hemodynamic work as a consequence of fetal growth, increased circulating volume, and alteration in loading patterns due to maturational changesin fetoplacental circulation. The extent to which these cardiovascular changes influence human fetal and neonatal cardiac adaptation has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate perinatal cardiovascular changes in ventricular geometry and myocardial performance in normal term fetuses. Prospective study of 108 uncomplicated pregnancies delivering at term. M-mode, two-dimensional or B-mode, pulsed wave Doppler, pulsed wave tissue Doppler, and two-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging were performed a few days before and within 24hours of birth. Analysis of paired fetal and neonatal echoes demonstrated significant perinatal changes (P<.0001 for all) in right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) geometry (RV/LV end-diastolic dimension ratio, 1.2 vs 0.8; RV sphericity index, 0.53 vs 0.40; LV sphericity index, 0.46 vs 0.49). There were corresponding significant (P<.001 for all) perinatal changes in global myocardial performance: LV myocardial performance index, 0.60 versus 0.47; RV myocardial performance index, 0.61 versus 0.42; systolic function: LV longitudinal systolic strain rate, -1.4/sec versus -1.0/sec; RV longitudinal systolic strain rate, -1.5/sec versus -1.0/sec; RV S', 5.3cm/sec versus 6.5cm/sec; and diastolic function: LV E'/A', 0.8 versus 1.1. The findings support the concept that the perinatal period is associated with major changes infetal ventricular geometry and cardiac function in response to significant alterations in loading conditions. Improved knowledge of perinatal cardiac changes in normal fetuses could facilitate better understanding of cardiac adaptation in normal and pathological pregnancies.

Depleted Leukocyte Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number Correlates With Unfavorable Left Ventricular Volumetric and Spherical Shape Remodeling in Acute Myocardial Infarction After Primary Angioplasty.

Left ventricular (LV) shape influences LV systolic function. It is possible to assess LV shape using 3-D echocardiography sphericity index (SI). Maintaining mitochondrial DNA copy number (MCN) is important for preserving mitochondrial function and LV systolic function after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Information is limited, however, regarding the relationship between leukocyte MCN and the subsequent change in LV shape after AMI.Methods and Results:Fifty-five AMI patients undergoing primary angioplasty were recruited. Plasma MCN was measured before primary angioplasty using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. 3-D echocardiography measurement of SI was performed at baseline, and at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up. AMI subjects with MCN lower than the median had a higher 6-month SI and LV volume compared with those with higher MCN. Baseline echocardiographic parameters were similar between the 2 groups. MCN was negatively correlated with 3- and 6-month SI, and 3- and 6-month LV volume. On multiple linear regression analysis, baseline plasma MCN could predict LV SI and LV volume at 6 months after primary angioplasty for AMI, even after adjusting for traditional prognostic factors. In AMI patients, higher plasma leukocyte MCN at baseline was associated with favorable LV shape and remodeling at 6-month follow-up. Plasma leukocyte MCN may provide a novel prognostic biomarker for LV remodeling after AMI.

Intra-left ventricular flow dynamics in patients with preserved and impaired left ventricular function: Analysis with 3D cine phase contrast MRI (4D-Flow).

To examine how left ventricular (LV) volume and function affect flow dynamics by analyzing 3D intra-LV vortex features using 4D-Flow. Twenty-one patients with preserved (LVEF > 60%) and 14 with impaired LV function (LVEF < 40%) underwent 4D-Flow (at 3T). In patients with preserved LV function, the intra-LV vortices developed in both the early and late diastolic phases. The shift of inflow vectors at the basal LV toward the posterior-lateral side of the LV and the mid-ventricular turn of inflow vectors toward the LV outflow could explain clearer vortex formation in the late diastolic phase. In patients with impaired LV function, the intra-LV vortices during the diastolic phase located at the more apical LV were larger and more spherically shaped. Both the distance to the vortex core and the vortex area correlated significantly with LV end-diastolic volume (r = 0.66 and 0.73), LVEF (r = -0.74 and -0.68), LV sphericity index (r = -0.60 and -0.65), and peak filling rate (r = -0.61 and -0.64), respectively (P < 0.01). The intra-LV vortices developed during the systolic phase in 10 cases. In those, some of the particles at the apical LV rotated within the LV, whereas in patients with preserved LV function, all of the particles were directed straight to the ascending aorta with accelerated flow velocity (256.8 ± 120.2 cm/s vs. 414.3 ± 88.2 cm/s, P < 0.01). Vortex formation during the diastolic phase may be critical for both LV filling and ejection. 4D-Flow showed the 3D alterations of intra-LV flow dynamics by LV dilatation and dysfunction in a noninvasive and comprehensive manner. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1493-1503.

Clinical implications of mitral valve geometric alterations in children with dilated cardiomyopathy.

We aimed to elucidate the relationship between severity of secondary mitral regurgitation and mitral valve geometry in children with dilated cardiomyopathy. The medical records of 16 children with dilated cardiomyopathy (median age, 1.2 years; range, 0.4-12.3 years) were reviewed. Mitral valve geometry was evaluated by measuring coaptation depth using echocardiographic apical four-chamber views at the initial presentation. Patients were dichotomised according to the mitral regurgitation severity: patients with moderate or severe secondary mitral regurgitation (n=6) and those with mild secondary mitral regurgitation (n=10). A total of 58 healthy children were considered as normal controls, and a regression equation to predict coaptation depth by body surface area was derived: coaptation depth [mm]=4.37+1.34×ln (body surface area [m2]) (residual standard error, 0.49; adjusted R2, 0.68; p<0.0001). Compared with patients with mild secondary mitral regurgitation, those with moderate or severe secondary mitral regurgitation had significantly larger coaptation depth z-scores (6.4±2.3 versus 1.9±1.4, p<0.005), larger mitral annulus diameter z-scores (3.6±2.6 versus 0.9±1.8, p<0.05), higher left ventricular sphericity index (0.89±0.07 versus 0.79±0.06, p<0.005), and greater left ventricular fraction shortening (0.15±0.05 versus 0.09±0.05, p<0.05). In conclusion, geometric alteration in the mitral valve and the left ventricle is associated with the severity of secondary mitral regurgitation in paediatric dilated cardiomyopathy, which would provide a theoretical background to surgical intervention for secondary mitral regurgitation in paediatric populations.

Influence of breastfeeding and postnatal nutrition on cardiovascular remodeling induced by fetal growth restriction

Our aim was to determine the influence of breastfeeding and postnatal nutrition on cardiovascular remodeling induced by fetal growth restriction (FGR). A cohort study including 81 children with birthweight <10th centile (FGR) and 121 with adequate fetal growth for gestational age (AGA) was conducted. Cardiovascular endpoints were left ventricular sphericity index (LVSI), carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), and blood pressure (BP) at 4-5 y of age. The combined effect of FGR and postnatal variables-including breastfeeding, fat dietary intake, and BMI-on cardiovascular endpoints was assessed by linear and robust regressions. FGR was the strongest predictor of cardiovascular remodeling in childhood, leading to lower LVSI and increased cIMT and BP as compared with AGA. Breastfeeding >6 mo (coefficient: 0.0982) and healthy-fat dietary intake (coefficient: -0.0128) showed an independent beneficial effect on LVSI and cIMT, respectively. Overweight/obesity induced an additional increment of 1 SD on cIMT in FGR children (interaction coefficient: 0.0307) when compared with its effect in AGA. BMI increased systolic BP (coefficient: 0.7830) while weight catch-up increased diastolic BP (coefficient: 4.8929). Postnatal nutrition ameliorates cardiovascular remodeling induced by FGR. Breastfeeding and healthy-fat dietary intake improved while increased BMI worsened cardiovascular endpoints, which opens opportunities for targeted postnatal interventions from early life.