Mean Left Ventricular End-systolic Volume Research Articles

Leadless Ultrasound-Based Cardiac Resynchronization System in Heart Failure

Approximately 40% of patients with heart failure (HF) who are eligible for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) either fail to respond or are untreatable due to anatomical constraints. To assess the safety and efficacy of a novel, leadless, left ventricular (LV) endocardial pacing system for patients at high risk for a CRT upgrade or whose coronary sinus (CS) lead placement/pacing with a conventional CRT system failed. The SOLVE-CRT study was a prospective multicenter trial enrolling January 2018 through July 2022, with follow-up at 6 months. Data were analyzed from January 17, 2018, through February 15, 2023. The trial combined data from an initial randomized, double-blind study (n = 108) and a subsequent single-arm part (n = 75). It took place at 36 centers across Australia, Europe, and the US. Participants were nonresponders, previously untreatable (PU), or high-risk upgrades (HRU). All participants contributed to the safety analysis. The primary efficacy analysis (n = 100) included 75 PU-HRU patients from the single-arm part and 25 PU-HRU patients from the randomized treatment arm. Patients were implanted with the WiSE CRT System (EBR Systems) consisting of a leadless LV endocardial pacing electrode stimulated with ultrasound energy delivered by a subcutaneously implanted transmitter and battery. The primary safety end point was freedom from type I complications. The primary efficacy end point was a reduction in mean LV end systolic volume (LVESV). The study included 183 participants; mean age was 68.1 (SD, 10.3) years and 141 were male (77%). The trial was terminated at an interim analysis for meeting prespecified stopping criteria. In the safety population, patients were either New York Heart Association Class II (34.6%) or III (65.4%). The primary efficacy end point was met with a 16.4% (95% CI, -21.0% to -11.7%) reduction in mean LVESV (P = .003). The primary safety end point was met with an 80.9% rate of freedom from type I complications (P < .001), which included 12 study device system events (6.6%), 5 vascular events (2.7%), 3 strokes (1.6%), and 7 cardiac perforations which mostly occurred early in the study (3.8%). The SOLVE-CRT study has demonstrated that leadless LV endocardial pacing with the WiSE CRT system is associated with a reduction in LVESV in patients with HF. This novel system may represent an alternative to conventional CRT implants in some HF patient populations. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT0292203.

Towards standardization of positron emission testing with computed tomography myocardial perfusion volumes and left ventricular ejection fraction: comparison with cardiac MRI.

Gated positron emission testing with computed tomography (PET-CT) yields left ventricular (LV) volume analysis along with perfusion analysis. The correlation between PET-CT volumes and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) volumes remains unknown. Understanding of the accuracy of these volumes and ejection fractions (EF) by PET is clinically relevant, particularly in the sarcoid population where patients receive initial diagnostic CMR and then are followed by PET for inflammation. 89 patients undergoing cardiac sarcoidosis evaluation with both rest PET-CT and CMR within approximately 1 year were identified at Cleveland Clinic from 2011 to 2021. LV volumes and EF were collected. Linear regression and Bland-Altman analyses were performed. Mean PET-CT derived left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 46 ± 16% with mean LV end diastolic volume (LVEDV) of 127 ± 60 mL and mean LV end systolic volume (LVESV) of 75 ± 54 mL. Mean CMR-derived LVEF was 47 ± 15% with mean LVEDV of 189 ± 61 mL and mean LVESV of 106 ± 60 mL. Pearson correlation coefficient with standard measurements was 0.85 for EF, 0.80 for LVEDV, and 0.86 for LVESV. In our cohort, there is an excellent correlation of LVEF between PET-CT and CMR with a mean difference of 1.1% and a good correlation of volumes between these two imaging modalities. This has potential clinical implications when judging LVEF qualifications for medical and device therapies although future larger validation cohorts are warranted.

On-screen image-guided lead placement in cardiac resynchronization therapy: Feasibility and outcome in a multicenter setting.

Image guidance to assist left ventricular (LV) lead placement may improve outcome after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), but previous approaches and results varied greatly, and multicenter feasibility is lacking altogether. We sought to investigate the multicenter feasibility of image guidance for periprocedural assistance of LV lead placement for CRT. In 30 patients from 3 hospitals, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed within 3 months prior to CRT to identify myocardial scar and late mechanical activation (LMA). LMA was determined using radial strain, plotted over time. Segments without scar but clear LMA were classified as optimal for LV lead placement, according to an accurate 36-segment model of the whole heart. LV leads were navigated using image overlay with periprocedural fluoroscopy. After 6 months, volumetric response and super-response were defined as ≥15% or ≥30% reduction in LV end-systolic volume, respectively. Periprocedural image guidance was successfully performed in all CRT patients (age 66 ± 10 years; 59% men, 62% with nonischemic cardiomyopathy, 69% with left bundle branch block). LV leads were placed as follows: within (14%), adjacent (62%), or remote (24%) from the predefined target. According to the conventional 18-segment model, a remote position occurred only once (3%). On average, 86% of patients demonstrated a volumetric response (mean LV end-systolic volume reduction 36 ± 29%), and 66% of all patients were super-responders. On-screen image guidance for LV lead placement in CRT was feasible in a multicenter setting. Efficacy will be further investigated in the randomized controlled ADVISE (Advanced Image Supported Lead Placement in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) trial (NCT05053568).

The effect of immediate coronary angiography after cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation on left ventricular function. A sub-study of the COACT randomised trial

Abstract Background The effect of immediate coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients who are successfully resuscitated after cardiac arrest in the absence of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) on left ventricular function is currently unknown. Purpose To evaluate whether immediate coronary angiography and PCI improves left ventricular function in patients who are successfully resuscitated from cardiac arrest without STEMI. Methods This prespecified sub-study of the multicentre COACT trial evaluated 552 patients, successfully resuscitated from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without signs of STEMI. Patients were randomized to either undergo immediate coronary angiography or delayed coronary angiography, after neurologic recovery. All patients underwent PCI if indicated. The main outcomes of this analysis were left ventricular ejection fraction and end-diastolic and systolic volumes assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or echocardiography. Results Data on left ventricular function was available for 397 patients. The mean (± standard deviation) left ventricular ejection fraction was 45.2% (±12.8) in the immediate angiography group and 48.4% (±13.2) in the delayed angiography group (mean difference: −3.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], −6.75 to 0.37). Median left ventricular end-diastolic volume was 177 ml in the immediate angiography group compared to 169 ml in the delayed angiography group (ratio of geometric means: 1.06; 95% CI, 0.95 to 1.19). In addition, mean left ventricular end-systolic volume was 90 ml in the immediate angiography group compared to 78 ml in the delayed angiography group (ratio of geometric means: 1.13; 95% CI 0.97 to 1.32). Conclusion In patients successfully resuscitated after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and without signs of STEMI, immediate coronary angiography was not found to improve left ventricular dimensions or function compared with a delayed angiography strategy. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Netherlands Heart InstituteBiotronikAstraZeneca

The effect of immediate coronary angiography after cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation on left ventricular function. A sub-study of the COACT randomised trial

BackgroundThe effect of immediate coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients who are successfully resuscitated after cardiac arrest in the absence of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) on left ventricular function is currently unknown. MethodsThis prespecified sub-study of a multicentre trial evaluated 552 patients, successfully resuscitated from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without signs of STEMI. Patients were randomized to either undergo immediate coronary angiography or delayed coronary angiography, after neurologic recovery. All patients underwent PCI if indicated. The main outcomes of this analysis were left ventricular ejection fraction and end-diastolic and systolic volumes assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or echocardiography. ResultsData on left ventricular function was available for 397 patients. The mean (± standard deviation) left ventricular ejection fraction was 45.2% (±12.8) in the immediate angiography group and 48.4% (±13.2) in the delayed angiography group (mean difference: −3.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], −6.75 to 0.37). Median left ventricular end-diastolic volume was 177 ml in the immediate angiography group compared to 169 ml in the delayed angiography group (ratio of geometric means: 1.06; 95% CI, 0.95–1.19). In addition, mean left ventricular end-systolic volume was 90 ml in the immediate angiography group compared to 78 ml in the delayed angiography group (ratio of geometric means: 1.13; 95% CI 0.97–1.32). ConclusionIn patients successfully resuscitated after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and without signs of STEMI, immediate coronary angiography was not found to improve left ventricular dimensions or function compared with a delayed angiography strategy.Clinical Trial Registration: Netherlands Trial Register number, NTR4973

Correlation of global longitudinal strain with disease severity in liver cirrhosis

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction/purpose Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy is characterized by high cardiac output, reduced peripheral resistance and diastolic dysfunction and has been correlated with cirrhosis severity and prognosis. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive marker of cardiac dysfunction which is considered relatively independent of preload and afterload conditions and thus may be of high diagnostic significance in this special population. We sought to investigate alterations of GLS relating to disease severity in cirrhotic patients. Methods Echocardiographic analysis of 51 consecutive cirrhotic patients was performed. Images were acquired and analyzed off-line. GLS was calculated with a semi-automatic way using dedicated software. Clinical and biochemical examination were used to assess severity of liver disease by calculating Child-Pugh class (class C patients have more severe disease than class B and A patients) and MELD-Na score (increased score as the disease progresses). Results Mean age was 58.4 ± 8.7 years, 38 (74.5%) were males. Among patients, 22 (43.1%) were Child-Pugh class A, 17 (33.3%) Child-Pugh B and 12 (23.5%) Child-Pugh C and mean MELD-Na score was 15.3 ± 7.5. Mean left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVEDV) was 117 ± 29ml, mean stroke volume (SV) 72.5 ± 19.9ml , mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 61.0 ± 5.0%, mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) 128 ± 13mmHg, mean ratio of peak transmitral to peak annular (septal) velocity during early diastole (E/e’ ratio) 10.4 ± 4.5, mean left atrial volume index (LAVI) 37.4 ± 11.8 ml/cm2 and mean GLS -21.6 ± 2.6%. GLS of Child-Pugh class A patients (-20.3 ± 2.4) was higher (less negative) than GLS of Child-Pugh class B (-22.2 ± 2.2) and class C (-23.0 ± 2.8) patients. Difference between groups B and C was non-significant (figure). Severity of cirrhosis as determined by higher MELD-Na score correlated with LAVI (r = 0.592, p &amp;lt; 0.001), SV (r = 0.554, p &amp;lt; 0.001), GLS (r=-0.441, p = 0.001) and LVEDV (r = 0.428, p = 0.002). GLS correlated with SV (r=-0.369, p = 0.008) but not with preload (LVEDV), or afterload (SBP). In a linear regression model, GLS was independently associated with Meld-Na score when adjusting for age, SBP, LVEDV and NASH etiology [B=-0.139 (-0.252; -0.025), p = 0.018]. Conclusions GLS is lower (more negative) in patients with liver cirrhosis as disease progresses a relation not affected by preload and afterload conditions. Further research works are required to explain the underlying pathophysiology and to assess prognostic significance of reduced GLS values in patients with advanced cirrhosis. Abstract Figure. GLS stratified by Child-Pugh score

First in human experience with an epicardial beating heart device for secondary mitral regurgitation

ObjectiveWe describe a novel, off-pump, epicardial implant that is intended to reshape both the mitral valve annulus and the left ventricle (LV) in those with secondary mitral regurgitation (MR). MethodsFive patients underwent an epicardial implant with the Mitral Touch device (Mitre Medical Corp, Morgan Hill, Calif), during concomitant off-pump coronary artery bypass for secondary MR. The median age was 71.2 years; 4 patients had severe MR and 1 moderate. Patients were followed for 1 year with transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography. Safety, cardiac remodeling, and MR were assessed by an independent core laboratory. ResultsOne patient died within 30 days from nondevice-related organ failure and the remaining 4 survived through 1-year follow-up. Implant technical success was 100% and took an average of 52 minutes. Paired computed tomography showed mean left ventricular end-systolic volume remodeling at 1 and 12 months of −35% and −31%, respectively. They averaged left atrial end-systolic volume remodeling of −12% and −15% at 1 and 12 months. Right ventricular end-systolic volume changes of −19% and −8% and right atrial end-systolic volume remodeling of −5% and 1%, at the 1- and 12-month time points were noted. Regurgitant volume by transthoracic echocardiography decreased by 46% and 44% and the ejection fraction from 34.6% to 32.1% and 39.5%, at 1 and 12 months, respectively. There were no device-related complications reported to 1 year. ConclusionsThe Epicardial Mitral Touch System for Mitral Regurgitation (ENRAPT-MR) study demonstrates a first-in-man, off-pump, epicardial repair of secondary MR. Procedural safety and geometric correction of the mitral valve apparatus and LV was achieved. Further studies in the United States are underway.

Association of ECG characteristics with clinical and echocardiographic outcome to CRT in a non-LBBB patient population.

Effectiveness of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients without left bundle branch block (non-LBBB) QRS morphology is limited. Additional selection criteria are needed to identify these patients. Seven hundred ninety consecutive patients with non-LBBB morphology, who received a CRT-device in 3 university centers in the Netherlands, were selected. Pre-implantation 12-lead ECGs were evaluated on morphology, duration, and area of the QRS complex, as well as on PR interval, left ventricular activation time (LVAT), and the presence of fragmented QRS (fQRS). Association of these ECG features with the primary endpoint: a combination of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, cardiac transplantation and all-cause mortality, and secondary endpoint-echocardiographic reduction of left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV)-were evaluated. The primary endpoint occurred more often in non-LBBB patients with with PR interval ≥ 230ms, QRS area < 109μVs, and with fQRS. Multivariable regression analysis showed independent associations of QRS area (HR 2.33 [1.44, 3.77], p = 0.001) and PR interval (HR 2.03 [1.51, 2.74], p < 0.001) only. Mean LVESV reduction was significantly lower in patients with baseline RBBB, QRS duration < 150 ms, PR interval ≥ 230 ms, and in QRS area < 109 μVs. Multivariable regression analyses only showed significant associations between QRS area ≥ 109 μVs (OR 2.00 [1.09, 3.66] p = 0.025) and probability of echocardiographic response to CRT. In the heterogeneous non-LBBB patient population, QRS area and PR prolongation rather than traditional QRS duration and morphology are associated to both clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of CRT.

Optimization of Chronic Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Using Fusion Pacing Algorithm Improves Echocardiographic Response

BackgroundWhether reprogramming of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) to increase electrical synchrony translates into echocardiographic improvement remains unclear. SyncAV is an algorithm that allows fusion of intrinsic conduction with biventricular pacing. We aimed to assess whether reprogramming chronically implanted CRT devices with SyncAV is associated with improved echocardiographic parameters. MethodsPatients at a quaternary center with previously implanted CRT devices with a programmable SyncAV algorithm underwent routine electrocardiography-based SyncAV optimization during regular device clinic visits. This analysis included only patients who could be programmed to the SyncAV algorithm (i.e., in sinus rhythm with intrinsic atrioventricular conduction). Echocardiography was performed before and 6 months after CRT optimization. ResultsOf 64 consecutive, potentially eligible patients who underwent assessment, 34 who were able to undergo SyncAV programming were included. Their mean age was 74 ± 9 years, 41% were female, and 59% had ischemic cardiomyopathy. The mean time from CRT implant to SyncAV optimization was 17.8 ± 8.5 months. At 6-month follow-up, SyncAV optimization was associated with a significant increase in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (mean LVEF 36.5% ± 13.3% vs 30.9% ± 13.3%; P < 0.001) and a reduction in left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) (mean LVESV 110.5 ± 57.5 mL vs 89.6 ± 52.4 mL; P < 0.001) compared with baseline existing CRT programming. ConclusionCRT reprogramming to maximize biventricular fusion pacing significantly increased LVEF and reduced LVESV in patients with chronic CRT devices. Further studies are needed to assess if a continuous fusion pacing algorithm improves long-term clinical outcomes and to identify which patients are most likely to derive benefit.

Echo Changes in Hypertensive Disorder of Pregnancy.

Aim:Acute preeclampsia is associated with significantly higher prevalence of asymptomatic global left ventricular (LV) abnormal function and myocardial injury than uneventful pregnancy. Hence, this study was undertaken to evaluate the LV changes in preeclamptic women and to compare with normotensive women.Materials and Methods:This study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, M. S. Ramaiah Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Bengaluru. Two-hundred women were in each group: 200 patients with preeclampsia as cases and 200 normotensive patients as controls.Results:The mean LV end-systolic volume (LV ESV) in preeclamptic women was 33.45 ± 2.8, LV end-diastolic volume (LV EDV) was 106 ± 3.01, and LV systolic mass (LV Ms) was 87.1 ± 1.65 when compared to normotensive women LV ESV - 27 ± 0.74, (P < 0.0001) LV EDV - 106.2 ± 0.43, (P - 0.3528), and LV Ms - 84 ± 0.56 (P < 0.0001).Conclusion:This study emphasizes the importance of identifying this subset of preeclamptic patients with echo changes who are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular complications later in life by undergoing echocardiography.

Cardiac index, left ventricular longitudinal systolic function and atrialised right ventricle size affect exercise capacity in adults with Ebsteins anomaly

Background: Small and squashed left ventricular (LV) compressed by markedly enlarged atrialised RV may have some influence on exercise capacity; however, there is no detailed study of the LV in a large cohort of adults with Ebstein's anomaly. Left heart haemodynamic changes including cardiac output and longitudinal LV function may be sensitive in detecting early myocardial damage or ventricular interaction in adults with Ebstein's anomaly. Methods: We enrolled 71 consecutive adults (age 37.0±13.6 years, range 18 – 82 years, 36 males) with Ebstein's anomaly who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) between Jan 2004 and Dec 2011. All of them did not undergo any surgery. Bi-atrial and -ventricular size and longitudinal function, and cardiac output were analysed using CMR and two dimensional echocardiogram. We also assessed brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and exercise capacity using cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). Results: Thirteen patients (18.3%) fulfilled the criteria of LV non-compaction. Mean cardiac index (CI) was 2.82±0.70 L/min/m2; mean LV end-diastolic volume index (EDVi) of 79.8±21.8 ml/m2; mean LV end-systolic volume index (ESVi) of 37.2±14.3 ml/m2; mean LV ejection fraction (EF) of 54.7±6.6%; mean LV global longitudinal strain of 15.1±3.5%. The median of mean peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2) of the predicted value in CPET was 64%. We defined peak VO2 of the predicted value<64% as significantly reduced exercise capacity (32 patients, 45.1%). On univariate logistic regression analysis, CI (Odds ratio 0.41 per 1L/min/m2, P=0.045), maximum atrialised right ventricular (RV) volume index in 4 chamber view (Odds ratio per 1cm2/m2, P=0.046), LV global longitudinal strain (Odds ratio 1.25 per 1%unit, P=0.01) were related to exercise capacity. On multivariate analysis, CI and LV global longitudinal strain were significantly related to exercise intolerance. Furthermore, there was significant correlation with LVEF and RVEF (P<0.0001, R=0.60), suggesting ventricular interaction. Conclusions: Cardiac index and LV longitudinal dysfunction are associated with exercise intolerance as well as atrialised RV volumes in adults with Ebstein's anomaly. Furthermore, there is obvious ventricular interaction which has great influence on exercise capacity. Considering the potential prognostic value of LV dysfunction and exercise intolerance in Ebstein's anomaly, left sided meticulous assessments should be regarded as a useful adjunct to potential outcome information in this challenging population.

Core Lab Analysis of Baseline Echocardiographic Studies in the STICH Trial and Recommendation for Use of Echocardiography in Future Clinical Trials

The Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure (STICH) randomized trial was designed to identify an optimal management strategy for patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Baseline echocardiographic examinations were required for all patients. The primary aim of this report is to describe the baseline STICH Echocardiography Core Laboratory data. The secondary aim is to provide recommendations regarding how echocardiography should be used in clinical practice and research on the basis of the experience gained from echocardiography in STICH. Between September 2002 and January 2006, 2,136 patients with ejection fractions (EFs) ≤ 35% and coronary artery disease amenable to coronary artery bypass grafting were enrolled. Echocardiography was acquired by 122 clinical enrolling sites, and measurements were performed by the Echocardiography Core Laboratory after a certification process for all clinical sites. Echocardiography was available for analysis in 2,006 patients (93.9%); 1,734 (86.4%) were men, and the mean age was 60.9 ± 9.5 years. The mean left ventricular end-systolic volume index, measureable in 72.8%, was 84.0 ± 30.9 mL/m(2), and the mean EF was 28.9 ± 8.3%, with 18.5% of patients having EFs > 35%. Single-plane measurements of left ventricular and left atrial volumes were similar to their volumes by biplane measurement (r= 0.97 and r= 0.92, respectively). Mitral regurgitation severity by visual assessment was associated with a wide range of effective regurgitant orifice area, while effective regurgitant orifice area ≥ 0.2 cm(2) indicated at least moderate mitral regurgitation by visual assessment. Deceleration time of mitral inflow velocity had a weak correlation with EF (r= 0.25) but was inversely related to estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure (r= -0.49). In STICH patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, Echocardiography Core Laboratory analysis of baseline echocardiographic findings demonstrated a wide spectrum of left ventricular shape, function, and hemodynamics, as well as the feasibility and limitations of obtaining essential echocardiographic measurements. It is critical that the use of echocardiographic parameters in clinical practice and research balance the strengths and weaknesses of the technique.

Predicting Heart Failure Hospitalization and Mortality by Quantitative Echocardiography: Is Body Surface Area the Indexing Method of Choice? The Heart and Soul Study

Echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular (LV) mass, left atrial (LA) volume, and LV end-systolic volume (ESV) predict heart failure (HF) hospitalization and mortality. Indexing measurements by body size is thought to establish limits of normality among individuals varying in body habitus. The American Society of Echocardiography recommends dividing measurements by body surface area (BSA), but others have advocated alternative indexing methods. Echocardiographic measurements were collected in 1024 ambulatory adults with coronary artery disease. LV mass, LA volume, and LV ESV were calculated using truncated ellipse method and biplane method of disk formulae. Comparison between raw measurements and measurements divided by indexing parameters was made by hazard ratios per standard deviation increase in variable and c-statistics for BSA, BSA(0.43), BSA(1.5), height, height(0.25), height(2), height(2.7), body weight (BW), BW(0.26), body mass index (BMI), and BMI(0.27). Mean LV mass was 192 +/- 57 g, mean LA volume was 65 +/- 24 mL, and mean LV ESV was 41 +/- 26 mL. Average height was 171 +/- 9 cm, average BSA was 1.94 +/- 0.22 m(2), and average BMI was 28.4 +/- 5.3 kg/m(2). At an average follow-up of 5.6 +/- 1.8 years, there were 148 HF hospitalizations, 71 cardiovascular (CV) deaths, and 269 all-cause deaths. There was excellent correlation between raw measurements and those indexed by height (r = 0.98-0.99), and moderate correlation between raw measurements and those indexed by BW (r = 0.73-0.94). C-statistics and hazard ratios per standard deviation increase in indexed variables were similar for HF hospitalization, CV mortality, and all-cause mortality. There were no significant differences among indexing methods in ability to predict outcomes. The choice of indexing method by parameters of BSA, height, BW, and BMI does not affect the clinical usefulness of LV mass, LA volume, and LV ESV in predicting HF hospitalization, CV mortality, or all-cause mortality among ambulatory adults with coronary artery disease. Continued use of BSA to index measurements of LV mass, LA volume, and LV ESV is acceptable.

144 Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography assessment of left ventricular function: left ventricular volumes underestimation increase with the dilatation degree

Accurate quantification of left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF) is important, especially in heart failure patients. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered as the reference and then we sought to compare three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) for LV volumes and EF estimation, relative to MRI in heart failure patients. We studied 24 patients (17 men, age 58 ± 15 years) with history of heart failure who underwent 3DE (Full volume real-time 3DE – iE33 (Philips Medical system) QLAB workstation) and MRI in a 48-hour delay. No patient was excluded from the study due to poor image quality. The heart failure etiology was: 41,7% (n=10) ischemic cardiomyopathy, 50% (n=12) dilated idiopathic cardiomyopathy and 8,3% (n=2) of patients suffered from heart failure with preserved EF. Mean LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) evaluated by MRI was 208 ± 108mL (121 ± 64 mL/m2), mean EF 31 ± 13% and mean LV end-systolic volume (LVESV) was 149 ± 97 mL. 3DE data sets highly correlated with MRI, especially concerning EF (r : 0.86, 0.88, and 0.96 for LVEDV, LVESV, and EF, respectively) with small biases (-55 mL, -44 mL, 1,1%) and acceptable limits of agreement, but LV volumes are significantly underestimated by 3DE particularly in our patients with severe LV dysfunction, and 3DE data sets do not correlate as well as expected. We then determined that with a LVEDV below 120 mL/m2, 3D was more accurate for volumes and EF evaluation. The degree of underestimation of LV volumes is significatively correlated with the LV dilatation degree (r = 0,60 p=0,01). Compared with MRI, 3DE is a good method to evaluate LVEF, but 3DE appears to underestimate significantly LV volumes, with the problem of foreshortened apical views in heart failure patients. As the LVEDV increase, 3D accuracy simultaneously decrease.

Acute Elevation of Serum Triglycerides Increases Left Ventricular Contractility Measured by 2D Strain and Strain Rate

Purpose: Elevated serum triglycerides are associated with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and LV hypertrophy (LVH) in addition to increased aortic stiffness, independent of brachial blood pressure (BP). We sought to establish whether an acute rise in serum triglyceride affects cardiac and vascular function. Methods:On two separate days, 12 healthy males (aged 50± 8 yrs) underwent blinded, randomised infusion of saline or a high-fat supplement solution (Intralipid) to induceanacuteelevationof circulating lipids.Standard2D echocardiography was used to assess LV function (strain, strain rate) and tonometrywas used to record arterial stiffness (aortic pulse wave velocity; PWV) and central BP at baseline and after 1 h infusion of saline or Intralipid. Results: Triglycerides were significantly increased in response to Intralipid, but decreased after saline (Table). Intralipid significantly decreased mean LV end-systolic volume, but did not significantly change aortic stiffness, brachial or central BP. In contrast, both global 2D strain and strain rate decreased significantly (improved) after Intralipid. The lipid-induced change in global 2D strain was significantly correlated with changes in; total cholesterol (r= 0.604), haemoglobin (r= 0.679) and lymphocytes (r= 0.631, P< 0.05 for all). Both age and the change in lymphocyteswere independent predictors of the change in 2D strain (adjusted R2 = 0.69; model P= 0.004). Conclusions: Acute elevation of serum triglycerides increases LV contractility and improves myocardial deformation. Chronic exposure to high circulating lipids may mediate the progression of LVH through augmented cardiac workload resulting from increased blood viscosity or substrate delivery.

Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction as Criterion for Implantation of an Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator in Heart Failure Patients Undergoing Surgical Left Ventricular Reconstruction

Besides implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), a proportion of patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction due to ischemic cardiomyopathy are potential candidates for surgical LV reconstruction (Dor procedure), which changes LV ejection fraction (LVEF) considerably. In these patients, LVEF as selection criterium for ICD implantation may be difficult. This study aimed to determine the value of LVEF as criterium for ICD implantation in heart failure patients undergoing surgical LV reconstruction. Consecutive patients with end-stage heart failure who underwent ICD implantation and LV reconstruction were evaluated. During admission, two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography (LV volumes and LVEF) was performed before surgery and was repeated at 3 months after surgery. Over a median follow-up of 18 months, the incidence of ICD therapy was evaluated. The study population consisted of 37 patients (59 +/- 11 years). At baseline, mean LVEF was 23 +/- 5%. Mean left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) were 175 +/- 73 mL and 225 +/- 88 mL, respectively. At 3-month follow-up, mean LVEF was 41 +/- 9% (P < 0.0001 vs. baseline), and mean LVESV and LVEDV were 108 +/- 65 mL and 176 +/- 73 mL, respectively (P < 0.0001 vs. baseline). During 18-month follow-up, 12 (32%) patients had ventricular arrhythmias, resulting in appropriate ICD therapy. No significant relations existed between baseline LVEF (P = 0.77), LVEF at 3-month follow-up (P = 0.34), change in LVEF from baseline to 3-month follow-up (P = 0.28), and the occurrence of ICD therapy during 18-month follow-up. LVEF before and after surgical LV reconstruction is of limited use as criterium for ICD implantation in patients with end-stage heart failure.

Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With a Narrow QRS Complex

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in heart failure patients with narrow QRS complex (<120 ms) and evidence of left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony on tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Cardiac resynchronization therapy is beneficial in selected heart failure patients with wide QRS complex (> or =120 ms). Patients with narrow QRS complex are currently not eligible for CRT, and the potential effects of CRT are not well studied. Thirty-three consecutive patients with narrow QRS complex and 33 consecutive patients with wide QRS complex (control group) were prospectively included. All patients needed to have LV dyssynchrony > or =65 ms on TDI, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class III/IV heart failure, and LV ejection fraction < or =35%. Baseline characteristics, particularly LV dyssynchrony, were comparable between patients with narrow and wide QRS complex (110 +/- 8 ms vs. 175 +/- 22 ms; p = NS). No significant relationship was observed between baseline QRS duration and LV dyssynchrony (r = 0.21; p = NS). The improvement in clinical symptoms and LV reverse remodeling was comparable between patients with narrow and wide QRS complex (mean NYHA functional class reduction 0.9 +/- 0.6 vs. 1.1 +/- 0.6 [p = NS] and mean LV end-systolic volume reduction 39 +/- 34 ml vs. 44 +/- 46 ml [p = NS]). Cardiac resynchronization therapy appears to be beneficial in patients with narrow QRS complex and severe LV dyssynchrony on TDI, with similar improvement in symptoms and comparable LV reverse remodeling to patients with wide QRS complex. The current results need confirmation in larger patient cohorts.

Outcomes of surgical ventricular restoration following recent myocardial infarction

Background Recent myocardial infarction (≤90 days) is generally considered a contraindication to performing surgical ventricular restoration (SVR). Most surgeons prefer myocardial healing and scar formation to occur before undertaking SVR, although no data exist to support this practice. We analyzed outcomes of patients undergoing SVR following recent myocardial infarction (MI) to determine the utility of SVR in these patients. Methods Retrospective review analyzed 69 consecutive SVR patients between January 2002 and June 2005 to determine clinical characteristics, operative data, and postoperative outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and echocardiography were used to assess cardiac function. Results Twenty-two patients (32%) sustained a recent MI in our series. Mean age at operation was 63.5 years, with a M:F of 20:2. Preoperatively all patients carried a diagnosis of congestive heart failure and were classified as New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III or IV. Six patients (27%) required perioperative intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) support. There was only one operative mortality. Following SVR, mean ejection fraction improved from 26% to 35% (p = 0.02), with a reduction in mean left ventricular end-systolic volume index from 93 mL/m2 to 68 mL/m2 (p = 0.04). Seventy-three percent (16/22) of patients in preoperative NYHA class III/IV improved to class I/II at follow-up (p < 0.0001). Actuarial survival was 74% at 30 months. Recent MI was not an independent predictor of adverse outcomes following SVR in our series. Conclusion Recent MI patients demonstrate significant improvement in ventricular function and NYHA class with acceptable morbidity and mortality following SVR. These findings prompt consideration of expanding the inclusion criteria for SVR to include patients who have sustained a recent MI.

Gated blood pool SPECT for measurement of left ventricular volumes and left ventricular ejection fraction: comparison of 8 and 16 frame gated blood pool SPECT

Gated blood pool SPECT (GBPS) is an alternative to planar radionuclide ventriculography (PRNV) and offers potential advantages. The aim of this study was to compare 8 and 16 frame GBPS for the determination of left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF) and left ventricular volumes (LV) in subjects underwent two consecutive GBPS. About 66 consecutive patients (30 men, 36 women; mean age 62.3 +/- 10.4 years) referred for PRNV for evaluation of preoperative cardiac risk stratification (n = 40), prechemotherapy cardiac function evaluation (n = 18, breast cancer), and congestive heart failure patients (n = 8). All patients underwent PRNV of 16 frame and GBPS with both of 8 and 16 frame. The mean LVEF calculated with PRNV (58.3 +/- 16.8), showed statistically lower than 8-GBPS (70.6 +/- 17.7), and 16-GBPS (69.9 +/- 16.8) (PRNV vs. 8-GBPS, p < 0.01; PRNV vs 16-GBPS, p < 0.01; 8-GBPS vs 16-GBPS, p > 0.05). The correlation of LVEFS between 8-GBPS and 16-GBPS showed a correlation coefficient of 0.9194 (p < 0.01, 95% CI = 0.8712-0.9500). The mean left ventricular end-diastolic volumes (EDV) calculated with 8-GBPS (83.2 +/- 33.5 ml), and 16-GBPS (88.4 +/- 36.8 ml) showed no statistical differences (p > 0.05). The mean left ventricular end-systolic volumes (ESV) calculated with 8-GBPS (28.1 +/- 31.4 ml), and 16-GBPS (30.5 +/- 33 ml) showed also no statistical differences (p > 0.05). Comparison of EDV from 8 and 16-GBPS yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.7430 (p < 0.01, 95% CI = 0.6108-0.8349). The correlation between ESV of 8-GBPS and 16-GBPS showed a correlation coefficient of 0.9522 (p < 0.01, 95% CI = 0.9228-0.9705). This study demonstrated that the LVEFs of 8-GBPS correlated well with that of 16-GBPS. The LVEF of PRNV was significantly lower than those of 8 and 16-GBPS. Also, left ventricular EDV and ESV of 8-GBPS correlated well with those of 16-GBPS. Also, further studies, involving large lumber patients, should be performed to validate the usefulness of GBPS for the evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function.

Value of radionuclide ventriculography in the immediate characterization of patients with acute myocardial infarction

The ability of admission radionuclide ventriculography to discriminate among various clinical subsets was evaluated in patients with acute myocardial infarction. One hundred patients with acute myocardial infarction were evaluated within 8 ± 3.1 hours (mean ± standard deviation) after the onset of chest pain. Forty-one patients were in Killip functional class I, 52 in class II and 7 in class III. The mean radionuclide left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly lower in patients with higher Killip classification because of significant elevation of mean left ventricular end-systolic volume rather than significantly altered mean end-diastolic volume. Killip classification frequently failed to correlate with ejection fraction in individual cases. Admission chest X-ray findings were categorized according to the presence of findings suggestive of impaired left ventricular function. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly lower in patients with abnormal than in patients with normal chest X-ray findings because of significant elevations in both mean end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes. The chest X-ray findings frequently failed to correlate with ejection fraction in individual cases. Stepwise linear regression analysis was employed to analyze the ability of historical, physical, electrocardiographic and chest X-ray findings to predict radionuclide left ventricular ejection fraction. The most predictive variables in order of decreasing significance were anterior myocardial infarction, abnormal chest X-ray findings, rales to two thirds of the posterior thorax, previous myocardial infarction, transmural myocardial infarction and heart rate greater than 100 beats/min. However, even these six optimal predictive variables could explain only 42 percent of the observed variability in left ventricular ejection fraction. Thus, early radionuclide ventriculography adds significantly to the discriminant power of clinical and radiographic characterization of ventricular function in patients with acute myocardial infarction.