Normal Left Ventricular Function Research Articles

Heart rate is an important predictor of pacing induced cardiomyopathy in a machine learning analysis

Abstract Background 10-20% of patients who have right ventricular pacing develop pacing induced cardiomyopathy (PICM). Home monitoring (HM) could identify patients developing PICM in real-time and facilitate echocardiographic confirmation, medication optimisation and if necessary cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT). Purpose To identify predictors of PICM using machine learning models. Methods Consecutive cases of patients who developed PICM (12) after dual chamber pacing were identified from our implant database and matched 4:1 with propensity matched controls who underwent pacing but did not develop PICM (48) (Table 1.) HM data from the 6 months prior to echocardiographic diagnosis of PICM was analysed. PICM was defined as (1) a deterioration in left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) of >10%, (2) to an EF of <45%, (3) with right ventricular (RV) pacing >20% and (4) the exclusion of alternative causes. Three types of ML models were generated (1) random forest, (2) extreme gradient boosted (XGBoost) (3) K-nearest neighbours algorithm (KNN), with 10-fold cross-validation. Results HM data were available for 12 PICM cases (75 ± 8 years, 72% male). PICM occurred at 2.0 ± 1.2 years. There was no difference between cases and controls in atrial pacing (8±15% vs 18±22% p=0.14), ventricular pacing (81±29% vs 85±24% p=0.62) or base rate (53±5bpm vs 53±5bpm p=0.80). Of the 34 RM features analysed, mean ventricular heart rate was identified as the most important predictor of PICM; area under curve with XG Boost 0.95, KNN 0.95, and random forest 0.86. Other RM features failed to add any more predictive power to the models. Mean ventricular rate was significantly higher in cases than controls (80±6 bpm vs 69±9 bpm p<0.001). Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess whether episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF) were responsible for the higher ventricular rates. After days of AF days were excluded, mean ventricular rate was still significantly higher in cases than controls (79± 6vs 69±9bpm p<0.001) (Figure 1). 10/12 patients had a subsequent CRT upgrade. No consistent pattern emerged in heart rate changes in the first 3 months after CRT upgrade. Conclusion In a group of patients with normal left ventricular function at implant, remotely monitored heart rate can predict early-onset PICM. Further work is required to understand when these heart rate differences emerge, and whether they improve with positive LV remodelling.Table 1.Figure 1.

Staged hybrid convergent procedure versus pulsed field ablation for pulmonary veins and posterior wall isolation in the treatment of atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background There are limited effective treatment options for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, with pulmonary veins (PV) isolation alone being considered suboptimal for many patients. Hybrid convergent ablation has been shown to improve clinical outcomes when compared to an endocardial-only radiofrequency (RF) strategy. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has recently gained growing interest for its efficacy and safety profile in PV and posterior wall (PW) ablation. Objectives To compare clinical outcomes of hybrid convergent RF ablation versus endocardial PFA for PV and PW isolation in patients with persistent AF. Methods From July 2022, 86 persistent AF consecutive patients, receiving endocardial PFA of PV and PW (PFA group, N = 44) or receiving hybrid convergent RF ablation (Hybrid group, N = 42) at our institution were enrolled. Recurrence was defined as any atrial tachyarrhythmia following the 3-month blanking period. Results No differences were found between PFA and Hybrid groups regarding age (PFA 66.0±7.4 years vs Hybrid 63.9±10.6 years; p=0.193) and left atrial volume index (PFA 45.5 [36.7-57.2] ml/m² vs Hybrid 45.0 [39.2-59.7] ml/m²; p=0.920). Differences regarding left ventricular ejection fraction were borderline significant among groups (PFA 55.0 [49.5-62.0]% vs Hybrid 60.5 [52.3-65.0]%; p=0.048), both showing an overall normal LV function. There were no significant differences regarding AF duration (PFA 38.0 months [IQR: 19.2 to 99.0 months] vs Hybrid 70.0 months [IQR: 46.0 to 118.0 months]; p = 0.063). Redo ablation patients’ rate was higher in the hybrid group (PFA n=16, 36.4% vs Hybrid n=28, 66.6%; p<0.001). Procedure duration was Ionger in the hybrid group (179.9±60.1 minutes) compared to PFA endocardial ablation (PFA 106.2±30.7 minute; p<0.01). After a median follow-up of 233.0 [179.0–331.8] days, there was no difference in atrial tachyarrhythmias recurrence rate (PFA n=11, 25.0% vs Hybrid n=10, 23.8%; p=0.897); no difference in the antiarrhythmic drug use rate was found (PFA n=24, 54.5% vs Hybrid n=19, 45.2%; p=0.388). Conclusions PFA of PV and PW, compared with the hybrid convergent ablation strategy, is an endocardial-only, less invasive, and faster procedure. 6-month rhythm outcomes were similar in both groups.

The effect of bachmann bundle pacing on diastolic function in patients with non-obstructive HCM

Abstract Background and Objective Patients with non-obstructive HCM (nHCM) have advanced diastolic dysfunction and atrial remodeling, leading to increased heart failure hospitalisations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of Bachmann bundle pacing (BBP) in diastolic filling compared to right atrial appendage pacing (RAAP). Methods Forty patients with symptomatic nHCM and normal LV function were prospectively enrolled from January 2021 to June 2023. Inclusion criteria included electrocardiographic evidence of inter-atrial delay, E/e’ > 15, and an indication for ICD implantation. BBP was attempted in twenty patients, others underwent RAAP. A Biotronik Selectra 3D 40-S sheath was used for BBP in patients in whom initial lead implantation was unsuccessful. BBP was defined based on P-wave morphology and fluoroscopic lead position. The RV lead was implanted in the RV apex in all patients and the AV delay was optimized based on diastolic filling period and E/e’. Devices were programmed in DDD mode. During follow up, diastolic function, functional capacity, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure hospitalisations were assessed in both groups. Results Among the forty patients (age 48.2+7.8 yrs, males 75%, ESC-SCD Risk 4.3+0.6%), the baseline P wave duration, E/A, E/e’ were 138.4+16.4 ms, 2.5+0.5, and 17.5+2.4, respectively. Six patients (15%) had a history of paroxysmal AF (3 each in BBP and RAAP groups). Of the 16 patients (80%) who underwent successful BBP, the Selectra 3D 40-S sheath was used in 8 patients (Figure 1, Panel A). During BBP, a bachmann bundle potential was recorded in 7 of 16 patients (43.8%) (Figure 1, Panel C). The pacing threshold (1.5+0.5@0.4ms vs. 0.9+0.3@0.4ms, p=0.026) was higher and the atrial sensing (1.8+0.4 vs. 3.3+0.6, p=0.002) was lower in the BBP group compared to the RAAP group at 4 weeks and 6 months of follow up. There was an acute rise in threshold (2.1@0.4 ms) in 1 BBP patient at 4 weeks of follow up. Patients in the BBP group had a reduction in P wave duration compared to the patients in the RAAP group (-22.5 + 5.4 vs. +5.6 + 3.2 ms, p<0.001). During follow up (11.4 + 3.4 months), there was a significant improvement in diastolic function (E/e’), functional capacity (NYHA Class) and reduction in NT-proBNP in the BBB group compared to the RAAP group (Figure 1). The percentage of atrial pacing was similar in both groups (BBP 73.2 + 7.8 vs. RAAP 78.5 + 9.1 %, p=0.219). The risk of atrial fibrillation/tachycardia (12.5% vs. 35.0%, p=0.022) and heart failure hospitalisations (6.3% vs. 20%, p=0.042) was lower in the BBP group compared with RAAP during follow up. Conclusions BBP is safe and effective in improving diastolic function, functional capacity and heart failure hospitalizations in patients with nHCM.BBP Pacing using Selectra 3D 40-S SheathChange in E/e', NYHA, and NT-pro BNP

Acute clinical outcomes of patients with HFpEF undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation

Abstract Aim Robust data show that atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation can improve left ventricular function and prevent cardiovascular complications in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. The effectiveness and safety of AF ablation in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is less well characterized. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 785 consecutive patients with normal left ventricular function undergoing AF ablation in a high-volume center including 251 with AF and HFpEF. We compared baseline parameters, procedural details and procedural complications by heart failure status. Results Patients with HFpEF (n=251/785) were older (median age 70 years vs. 64 years; p < 0.05) and more frequently female (48.2% vs. 32.2%; p < 0.05) compared to patients without HF. Symptom severity was comparable with a median European Heart Rhythm Association score of 2 in both groups (p > 0.05). Arterial (71.7% vs. 59.7%, p < 0.05), diabetes (16.7% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.05) and dyslipidemia (41.4% vs. 27.2%, p < 0.05) were more common in patients with AF and HFpEF. Acute pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was achieved in all patients using cryoballoon or radiofrequency energy with similar frequency in both groups (cryoballoon ablation: 37.8% vs. 41.6%; p > 0.05). A subgroup of patients in both groups additionally underwent cavotricuspid isthmus ablation for coexistent atrial flutter (26% vs. 20.7%; p > 0.05). Procedure times (119.4 ± 47.7 min vs. 120.2 ± 48.3 min; p > 0.05) and fluoroscopy times (15.8 ± 10.4 min vs. 15.5 ± 7.1 min; p > 0.05) were comparable. Overall complication rates did not differ (12.7% vs. 10.3%; p > 0.05). While the incidence of pericardial tamponades was slightly higher (2% vs. 0%), other severe and minor complications showed no significant differences, including stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA; 0.4% vs. 0.6%), major life-threatening bleeding (0% vs. 0.2%), vascular complications (1.6% vs. 2.1%), phrenic nerve palsy (0.8% vs. 1.5%), and pulmonary vein stenosis (0.4 vs. 0%). The mean in-hospital stay for the procedure was 2 days in both groups (p > 0.05). In-hospital recurrence rates were similar (12.4% vs. 17%; p > 0.05), as was the need for electrical cardioversion before discharge (5.6% vs. 6.6%; p > 0.05). Conclusion Patients with HFpEF undergoing AF ablation were older, more frequently female, and have more comorbidities than patients without heart failure. Acute procedural success and acute complication rates appear low. These data encourage randomized evaluations of the safety and efficacy of ablation-based rhythm control therapy in patients with AF and HFpEF.

MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION DUE TO LEFT CIRCUMFLEX ARTERY OCCLUSION: A SUBTLE TROJAN HORSE

Abstract A 47–year–old man presented to the emergency department complaining of recurrent chest pain (CP) since the previous day. His medical history included active smoking and dyslipidemia. The ECG revealed sinus bradycardia (56 bpm) with widespread ST elevation, consistent with benign early repolarization, and hyperacute and broad–based T waves in V2–V3 (Fig. A). The echocardiography showed normal left and right ventricular systolic function and no valvular abnormalities. A low but abnormal initial high–sensitivity cardiac troponin I value (40 pg/mL, normal range: 1.7– 34,2 pg/mL) and a slightly and early increase after two hours (52 pg/ml) were seen. Therefore, the patient was admitted to our intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU) with a working diagnosis of non–ST–segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). No sign or symptoms of heart failure on physical examination were recorded. GraceScore 2.0 was calculated as 68 points and coronary angiography was organized within 24h. Two hours after admission to the ICCU, the patient experienced a new episode of CP. Consequently, ECG and echo were repeated. Compared to the previous results, ECG showed dynamic changes in V2–V3, with the resolution of hyperacute T waves (Fig B); bedside echo remained unchanged. Considering the unresponsiveness to nitrate therapy, the cath lab was activated for a time–dependent coronary angiography. The exam showed an acute total thrombotic occlusion of the mid–segment of the circumflex branch (LCx) in the setting left–sided dominant circulation. A drug eluting stent was deployed into the culprit lesion (Fig. C), and the coronary flow was restored completely (TIMI Flow 3). The subsequent hospital stay proceeded without complications. The peak troponin level was 60’000 pg/ml. The patient was discharged on the fifth day, asymptomatic and hemodynamically stable, with instructions to continue dual antiplatelet therapy. The case report focuses on the electrocardiographic and angiographic expression of LCx total occlusion. Despite acute myocardial infarction (AMI) size was large, as confirmed by the abnormal troponin I values and the angiographic total occlusion, the first and the repeated ECGs showed only vague repolarization changes without clear ST–segment modifications. LCx occlusion is often characterized by the absence of significant ST–elevation, therefore categorized as NSTEMI. Greater awareness of the presentation of LCx–related AMI can be crucial to avoid delays in reperfusion.

LEFT BUNDLE BRANCH BLOCK AND ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME: WHAT IS THE ROLE OF MODIFIED SGARBOSSA–SMITH CRITERIA AND THE WELLENS‘ PATTERN?

Abstract A 55–year–old man presented to the emergency room with intermittent chest pain that started the day before. His medical history included hypertension, and dyslipidemia. The initial electrocardiogram (ECG) showed sinus rhythm (75 bpm) with pre–existing left bundle branch block (LBBB), without modified Sgarbossa–Smith criteria, despite the hyperacute appearance of T waves in V2–V4 (Fig. 1). Additionally, there were alterations in ventricular repolarization in the lateral region, morphologically not fully justifiable by the mentioned conduction delay. Echocardiography revealed normal left and right ventricular systolic function and no valvular abnormalities. Laboratory tests showed a pathological release of myocardial necrosis enzymes, with a typical rise–and–fall curve (10 pg/mL, 100 pg/mL, 200 pg/mL; normal range: 1.7–34.2 pg/mL). Therefore, the patient was admitted to the intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU) with a working diagnosis of non–ST–segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). There were no recurrent angina episodes or signs/symptoms of heart failure on physical examination. During hospitalization, ECG and echocardiography were repeated. The follow–up ECG (12 hours after admission) showed persistent LBBB with biphasic T waves in leads V2–V5 with slight negative deflection at the end. This T wave abnormality can be interpreted as Wellens’ ECG Type A (Fig. 3A). The echocardiogram remained unchanged. Consequently, the catheterization lab was activated for urgent coronary angiography. The examination revealed subocclusion of the mid–segment of the left anterior descending artery (LAD). A drug–eluting stent was deployed in the culprit lesion (Fig. 2), restoring coronary flow completely (TIMI Flow 3). The subsequent hospital stay proceeded without complications. The ECG performed before discharge showed a typical LBBB, with normalization of T waves in precordial leads (Fig 3B). The presented case is about ECGs containing a pre–existing LBBB pattern in a patient with chest pain. The modified Sgarbossa–Smith criteria were not met in either the first recorded ECG or the second, whereas Wellens’ signs were detectable. Wellens’ syndrome can be diagnosed in a case of LBBB and help detect a high–grade LAD stenosis even if modified Sgarbossa–Smith criteria are not met.

Significance of QRS scoring system in left ventricular function recovery after acute myocardial infarction.

The Selvester scoring system has been derived from ECG parameters for estimating infarct size. However, there is still a lack of evidence for Selvester score as an alternative to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) myocardial injury makers for risk stratification and prediction of left ventricular function (LVF) recovery among patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This multicentre observational study enrolled 328 STEMI patients (88.4% men, 57.3±10.6years of age) undergoing CMR examination 1week post-reperfusion therapy. Patients with baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)<50% underwent a follow-up CMR 6months later, categorized into baseline normal LVF (ejection fraction [EF]≥50% at baseline, n=155); recovered LVF (EF<50% at baseline and ≥50% after 6months, n=69); and reduced LVF (EF<50% at baseline and after 6months, n=104). The median follow-up was 4 (3-4) years for all patients, with 61 patients experiencing major adverse cardiovascular event (MACEs). Patients with reduced LVF had a higher risk of MACEs than those with baseline normal LVF (P=0.01), while the recovered LVF group had no significant difference (P>0.05). A Selvester score >10 doubled the risk of MACEs in patients with systolic dysfunction (1.91 [1.02 to 3.58], P=0.04). Additionally, Selvester score, baseline LVEF, transmural infarction, and peak CK-MB were independent predictors of recovered LVF, with Selvester score providing incremental predictive value to peak CK-MB in predicting recovered LVF (∆AUC=0.07, P<0.05). The Selvester score improves risk stratification among STEMI patients beyond LVEF and provide independent and incremental information to clinical parameters in predicting recovered LVF.

Characteristics of Disease Profile of Hospitalized adult patients Referred to the Cardiology Department in a Tertiary Care Orthopedics Hospital

Objectives: For patients admitted to a tertiary care orthopedic hospital, cardiac consultation is a common practice and almost essential in every country. This is because of the increased morbidity and mortality of cardiac cases, especially during the perioperative period. The study was conducted to understand and evaluate the common causes of referral and to discover the disease profile pattern of referred cases to the cardiology department in this hospital.Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the cardiology department, NITOR hospital, (National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics Rehabilitation) in Sher-E-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, from July 2022 to December 2022. After data collection, data analysis was done using the SPSS-22 version, and findings were expressed in frequency and percentage. Results: This study revealed that the majority of referred cases were routine and non-cardiac (75%), with normal LV function on echo.Non cardiac cases were referred for the fitness of general anesthesia. Among cardiac cases, hypertension (9%) got the highest referral; followed by OMI (4%), ICM (2.4%), congenital heart disease (2.2%), ventricular heart disease (2.4%), arrhythmia (1.8%), ACS (2.4%), pulmonary embolism (0.3%), and others (0.4%).Conclusion:Cardiac problems, morbidity, and mortality are increasing day by day. So every different tertiary care hospital should have an enriched cardiology department with an efficient team and proper instrumental support. Bangladesh J Medicine 2024; 35: 93-95

The role of rhythm control in patients with first diagnosed atrial fibrillation in a real world collective

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Daiichi Sankyo Bayer. Background There has been conflicting evidence regarding the importance of rhythm control as opposed to rate control in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Thus, no clear recommendation on early rhythm control for risk reduction is given in the current guidelines. However, some evidence suggests that rhythm control is superior to rate control in patients with a recent diagnosis of AF. Purpose We aim to characterize patients with first diagnosed AF and evaluate the effect of a rhythm control strategy at the time of diagnosis on long term cardiovascular outcomes. Methods This is a single center, retrospective observational sub study based as a part of the HERA-FIB project. HERA-FIB included 10.222 patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) of the department of cardiology of a university hospital from June 2009 to March 2020. We consecutively included all patients with a history AF or current AF upon presentation, regardless of the reason for presentation. A structured follow-up regarding survival and major cardiovascular events was performed. Mean follow up was 23 months (IQR 12-35). Patient care was not influenced. The project was performed according to the declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the local ethics committee and registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05995561). Results. After adjudication we included 10.222 patients in this study. Of those 2758 (27%) had no previous history of AF and were first diagnosed with AF upon presentation. There were major differences in baseline characteristics as patients with first diagnosed AF were younger (73 years vs 76 years, p&amp;lt;0.0001), showed a normal left ventricular function more often (47.9% vs 40.2%, p&amp;lt;0.0001) and had fewer histories of coronary artery disease (CAD) (30.2% vs 48.0%, p&amp;lt;0.0001) and fewer histories of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) (9.0% vs 14.0%, p&amp;lt;0.0001). In contrast they had higher heart rates (113 bpm vs 84 bpm, p&amp;lt;0.0001) on admission. Among the patients with first diagnosed AF 24.6% received a cardioversion (either pharmacological of electrical). Patients with first diagnosed AF undergoing rhythm control treatment showed lower rates for all-cause mortality (10.4% vs 18.2%, p&amp;lt;0.0001) and myocardial infarction (2.4% vs. 5.2%, p=0.0045) as compared to patients first diagnosed with AF not recieving a cardioversion. However, no differences for strokes (2.7% vs 3.3%, p=0.6158) or severe bleeding according to ISTH major bleeding criteria (4.0% vs. 5.3%, p=0.2252) could be detected. Conclusions Patients presenting to an ED with first diagnosed AF are younger and show fewer comorbidities compared to patients with pre-existing AF. Patients with first diagnosed AF seem to profit from early rhythm control strategies showing a reduction for the rates of all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction. However, no difference for stroke or major bleeding events could be detected. Additional, prospective studies are required to verify this hypothesis.

Association of Cumulative Systolic Blood Pressure with Left Atrial Function in the Setting of Normal Left Atrial Size: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

Lower left atrial (LA) function is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events; data on risk factors for impaired LA function are limited. We evaluated the effect of cumulative systolic blood pressure (cSBP) from midlife to older age on LA strain in adults with normal LA size. We included participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study with LA strain measured on the Visit 5 echocardiogram (2011-2013), excluding those with atrial fibrillation and LA volume index >34ml/m2. cSBP was calculated from Visit 1 (1987-1989) through Visit 5. Linear regression models were used to evaluate associations between cSBP and LA strain measures. 3,859 participants with mean (SD) age of 75.2 (5.0) years were included in the analysis; 725 (18.8%) Black and 2342 (60.7%) women. After adjusting for demographics, CVD risk factors, heart failure, and coronary heart disease, each 10mmHg higher cSBP was associated with 0.32% (95% CI -0.52%, -0.13%) and 0.37% (95% CI -0.51%, -0.22%) absolute reduction in LA reservoir and conduit strain, respectively. Associations were attenuated after adjustment for left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function and mass (-0.12%; 95% CI, -0.31, 0.06 for reservoir strain and -0.24%; 95% CI -0.38%, -0.10% for conduit strain). In subgroup analyses, the association of cSBP with conduit strain was statistically significant among those with normal LV systolic and diastolic function. Cumulative exposure to elevated blood pressure from midlife to late life was modestly associated with lower LA reservoir and conduit strain in older adults with normal LA size, mostly related to the effect of blood pressure on LV function and mass. However, the association of cSBP and LA conduit strain in subgroups with normal LV function suggests that LA remodeling in response to hypertension occurs before LV dysfunction is detected on echocardiography.

Noninvasive measurement of tracer extraction efficiency in tissue, illustrated with Tc-99m-MAG3.

The aim of this study is to develop a noninvasive technique for measuring tissue tracer extraction efficiency ( E ) and illustrate it for Tc-99m-mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) and kidney. E was measured in 10 patients with normal MAG3 renography. E is the ratio of tissue clearance-to-blood flow ( Ki/F ). For single-photon tracers, attenuation constants are unknown, so Ki and F cannot be separately measured. However, by deriving attenuation-uncorrected Ki' and F' from the same regions of interests (ROIs), these constants cancel out, giving E . Using a lung ROI for blood activity, F was measured from first-pass and Ki' from Gjedde-Patlak-Rutland (GPR) analysis up to 130 s. Because of interference from right ventricle, a left ventricular ROI (LV) is unsuitable for F' but was used in GPR analysis, making an adjustment for the ratio of respective blood pool signals arising from lung and LV ROIs in early frames (60-90 s). A lung ROI underestimates F' by 4% at normal LV function. Chest wall interstitial activity ( I ), which does not affect F' , amounted to 53 and 30% of the lung and LV signals at 20 min, and 12 and 6% at 130 s, resulting in underestimations of Ki of 4 and 2%, respectively. Ignoring these opposing errors, E based on lung ROI for left and right kidneys was 43.5 (SD 8)% and 47.3 (9)%, and based on LV ROI for GPR analysis was 44.5 (10.9)% and 48.3 (10.6)%. E can be measured by combining blood flow from first-pass with clearance from GPR analysis, and has potential value both clinically and in clinical research.

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Patients with Left Heart Hypoplasia and Left Ventricular Dysfunction Have Highest Odds of Mortality

To describe the scope of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and left heart hypoplasia (LHH) in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), to determine associations with CDH severity, and to evaluate the odds of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and death with categories of left heart disease. Demographic and clinical variables were collected from a single-center, retrospective cohort of CDH patients from January 2017 through May 2022. Quantitative measures of LV function and LHH were prospectively performed on initial echocardiograms. LHH was defined as ≥2 of the following: Z-score ≤ -2 of any left heart structure or LV end-diastolic volume <3 mL. LV dysfunction was defined as shortening fraction <28%, ejection fraction <60%, or global longitudinal strain <20%. The exposure was operationalized as a four-group categorical variable (LV dysfunction +/-, LHH +/-). Logistic regression models evaluated associations with ECMO and death, adjusting for CDH severity. One-hundred and eight-two patients (80.8% left CDH, 63.2% liver herniation, 23.6% ECMO, 12.1% mortality) were included. Twenty percent demonstrated normal LV function and no LHH (LV dysfunction-/LHH-), 37% normal LV function with LHH (LV dysfunction-/LHH+), 14% LV dysfunction without LHH (LV dysfunction+/LHH-), and 28% both LV dysfunction and LHH (LV dysfunction+/LHH+). There was a dose-response effect between increasing severity of left heart disease, ECMO use, and mortality. LV dysfunction+/LHH+ infants had the highest odds of ECMO use and death, after adjustment for CDH severity [OR (95% CI); 1.76 (1.20,2.62) for ECMO, 2.76 (1.63, 5.17) for death]. In our large single-center cohort, CDH patients with LV dysfunction+/LHH+ had the highest risk of ECMO use and death.

Mortality in patients with normal left ventricular function requiring emergency VA-ECMO for postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock due to coronary malperfusion.

To analyze outcomes in patients with normal preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) undergoing venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) therapy due to postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS) related to coronary malperfusion. Retrospective single-center analysis in patients with normal preoperative LVEF treated with VA-ECMO for coronary malperfusion-related PCCS between May 1998 and May 2018. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality, which was compared using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of mortality. During the study period, a total of 62,125 patients underwent cardiac surgery at our institution. Amongst them, 59 patients (0.1%) with normal preoperative LVEF required VA-ECMO support due to coronary malperfusion-related PCCS. The mean duration of VA-ECMO support was 6 days (interquartile range 4-7 days). The 30-day mortality was 50.8%. Under VA-ECMO therapy, a complication composite outcome of bleeding, re-exploration for bleeding, acute renal failure, acute liver failure, and sepsis occurred in 51 (86.4%) patients. Independent predictors of 30-day mortality were lactate levels > 9.9 mmol/l before VA-ECMO implantation (odds ratio [OR]: 3.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5-7.0; p = 0.002), delay until revascularization > 278 minutes (OR: 2.9; 95% CI 1.3-6.4; p = 0.008) and peripheral arterial artery disease (OR: 3.3; 95% 1.6-7.5; p = 0.001). Mortality rates are high in patients with normal preoperative LVEF who develop PCCS due to coronary malperfusion. The early implantation of VA-ECMO before the development of profound tissue hypoxia and early coronary revascularization increases the likelihood of survival. Lactate levels are useful to define optimal timing for the VA-ECMO initiation.

Cardiac biopsies reveal differences in transcriptomics between left and right ventricle in patients with or without diagnostic signs of heart failure

New or mild heart failure (HF) is mainly caused by left ventricular dysfunction. We hypothesised that gene expression differ between the left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) and secondly by type of LV dysfunction. We compared gene expression through myocardial biopsies from LV and RV of patients undergoing elective coronary bypass surgery (CABG). Patients were categorised based on LV ejection fraction (EF), diastolic function and NT-proBNP into pEF (preserved; LVEF ≥ 45%), rEF (reduced; LVEF < 45%) or normal LV function. Principal component analysis of gene expression displayed two clusters corresponding to LV and RV. Up-regulated genes in LV included natriuretic peptides NPPA and NPPB, transcription factors/coactivators STAT4 and VGLL2, ion channel related HCN2 and LRRC38 associated with cardiac muscle contraction, cytoskeleton, and cellular component movement. Patients with pEF phenotype versus normal differed in gene expression predominantly in LV, supporting that diastolic dysfunction and structural changes reflect early LV disease in pEF. DKK2 was overexpressed in LV of HFpEF phenotype, potentially leading to lower expression levels of β-catenin, α-SMA (smooth muscle actin), and enhanced apoptosis, and could be a possible factor in the development of HFpEF. CXCL14 was down-regulated in both pEF and rEF, and may play a role to promote development of HF.

Atrial secondary tricuspid regurgitation: pathophysiology, definition, diagnosis, and treatment.

Atrial secondary tricuspid regurgitation (A-STR) is a distinct phenotype of secondary tricuspid regurgitation with predominant dilation of the right atrium and normal right and left ventricular function. Atrial secondary tricuspid regurgitation occurs most commonly in elderly women with atrial fibrillation and in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in sinus rhythm. In A-STR, the main mechanism of leaflet malcoaptation is related to the presence of a significant dilation of the tricuspid annulus secondary to right atrial enlargement. In addition, there is an insufficient adaptive growth of tricuspid valve leaflets that become unable to cover the enlarged annular area. As opposed to the ventricular phenotype, in A-STR, the tricuspid valve leaflet tethering is typically trivial. The A-STR phenotype accounts for 10%-15% of clinically relevant tricuspid regurgitation and has better outcomes compared with the more prevalent ventricular phenotype. Recent data suggest that patients with A-STR may benefit from more aggressive rhythm control and timely valve interventions. However, little is mentioned in current guidelines on how to identify, evaluate, and manage these patients due to the lack of consistent evidence and variable definitions of this entity in recent investigations. This interdisciplinary expert opinion document focusing on A-STR is intended to help physicians understand this complex and rapidly evolving topic by reviewing its distinct pathophysiology, diagnosis, and multi-modality imaging characteristics. It first defines A-STR by proposing specific quantitative criteria for defining the atrial phenotype and for discriminating it from the ventricular phenotype, in order to facilitate standardization and consistency in research.

Prognostic value of visual and quantitative CMR regional myocardial function in patients with suspected myocarditis

According to updated Lake-Louise Criteria, impaired regional myocardial function serves as a supportive criterion in diagnosing myocarditis. This study aimed to assess visual regional wall motional abnormalities (RWMA) and novel quantitative regional longitudinal peak strain (RLS) for risk stratification in the clinical setting of myocarditis. In patients undergoing CMR and meeting clinical criteria for suspected myocarditis global longitudinal strain (GLS), late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), RWMA and RLS were assessed in the anterior, septal, inferior, and lateral regions and correlated to the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including heart failure hospitalization, sustained ventricular tachycardia, recurrent myocarditis, and all-cause death. In 690 consecutive patients (age: 48.0 ± 16.0 years; 37.7% female) with suspected myocarditis impaired RLS was correlated with RWMA and LV-GLS but not with the presence of LGE. At median follow up of 3.8 years, MACE occurred in 116 (16.8%) patients. Both, RWMA and RLS in anterior-, septal-, inferior-, and lateral- locations were univariately associated with outcomes (all p < 0.001), but not after adjusting for clinical characteristics and LV-GLS. In the subgroup of patients with normal LV function, RWMA were not predictive of outcomes, whereas septal RLS had incremental and independent prognostic value over clinical characteristics (HRadjusted = 1.132, 95% CI 1.020–1.256; p = 0.020). RWMA and RLS can be used to assess regional impairment of myocardial function in myocarditis but are of limited prognostic value in the overall population. However, in the subgroup of patients with normal LV function, septal RLS represents a distinctive marker of regional LV dysfunction, offering potential for risk-stratification.Graphical abstractCI: confidence interval, CMR: cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, HR: hazard ratio, MACE major adverse cardiovascular events

Results of the Double Switch Operation in Patients Who Previously Underwent Left Ventricular Retraining.

Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (CC-TGA) is a complex form of congenital heart disease that has numerous subtypes. While most patients with CC-TGA have a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) and pulmonary stenosis, there are some patients who have either no VSD or a highly restrictive VSD. These patients will require left ventricular (LV) retraining prior to double switch. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had previously undergone LV retraining. This was a retrospective review of a single institution experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had undergone LV retraining (2002-present). Forty-five patients underwent double switch following LV retraining. Of these, 39 had an arterial switch with hemi-Mustard/bidirectional Glenn and six had a Senning. The median cross-clamp time was 135 min (range 71-272) and median bypass time was 202 min (range 140-430 min). Median hospital length of stay was eight days (range 4-108). There were no in-hospital deaths. Median duration of follow-up was 30 months (range 0-175). One patient subsequently underwent heart transplantation and died 65 months following double switch. At follow-up, 41 of the 44 survivors (93%) have normal or low normal LV function and 40 of the 44 survivors (91%) have no or trace mitral regurgitation. The data demonstrate early and mid-term survival of 100% and 97%. Ninety-three percent had preserved LV function. These results suggest that patients with CC-TGA who undergo LV retraining and double switch can have excellent clinical outcomes.

Diverse Cardiac Phenotype of Becker Muscular Dystrophy: Under-Recognized Subclinical Cardiomyopathy Due to Partial Dystrophin Deficiency in a Contemporary Era.

Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is an X-linked recessive disorder responsible for mild skeletal muscle involvement and variable degree of cardiomyopathy. The characteristics of cardiac phenotype of BMD in childhood remain elusive. Clinical manifestations, genotype, serum biomarkers, and echocardiogram were retrospectively reviewed in BMD patients. Cardiac phenotype was classified into acute progressive (AP), chronic persistent (CP), and latent (L) groups based upon symptoms and echocardiographic findings. Twenty-five BMD patients were studied over 9.5 ± 2.5years. Sixteen patients presented initially with variable degree of muscle weakness whereas 9 were asymptomatic. Three patients developed medically refractory heart failure by age 18 with progressive dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) (AP). Six patients developed mild to moderate left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction with LV dilatation but remained asymptomatic (CP). Although 16 patients continued to show normal LV function (L), they demonstrated variable degrees of skeletal muscle involvement. The AP groups presented with significantly larger LV size and LV mass index (LVMI) at the initial encounter than groups CP or L, suggesting early myocardial remodeling predicts rapid disease progression. None presented with atrophic myocardial phenotype commonly observed in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Wide availability of genetic testing has changed the scope of clinical presentation of BMD. Cardiomyopathy in BMD presents with a diverse clinical spectrum with variable progression of DCM where larger LV dimension and mass at the time of diagnosis may predict the progressiveness of cardiomyopathy.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of early aortic valve replacement versus conservative therapy in patients with asymptomatic aortic valve stenosis with preserved left ventricle systolic function

BackgroundA quarter of patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) were asymptomatic, and only a third of them survived at the end of 4 years. Only a select subset of these...

Association between Time to Thrombolysis and Left Ventricular Systolic Function in Patients with St-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Unraveling the Relationship

OBJECTIVES To determine the association between time to thrombolysis and left ventricular (LV) systolic function in patients with ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). METHODOLOGY T This descriptive case series study compared the time to thrombolysis and LV systolic function of 149 STEMI patients. LV systolic function was evaluated following thrombolysis, and data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 software. This study was conducted at the Ayub Teaching Hospital Cardiology Department in Abbottabad from August 2022 to January 2023. RESULTSThe study examined how LV systolic function and symptoms in STEMI patients related to when thrombolysis was administered. The 149 patients analyzed included 28 with normal LV function, 86 with mildly impaired function, 26 with moderately impaired function, and 9 with severely impaired function. In contrast to delayed thrombolysis, which was linked to higher levels of impairment, immediate thrombolysis was correlated with a higher percentage of normal LV function. The prevalence of patients with severely compromised LV function was also higher in those who received thrombolysis within 3 to 6 hours and 9 to 12 hours. LV function was correlated with the type of myocardial infarction, with varying degrees of impairment seen in AWMI and IWMI patients. Gender had no discernible effect on LV function. CONCLUSION Improved LV function is associated with early thrombolysis within hours of STEMI symptoms, highlighting the significance of prompt intervention and minimizing wait times for better patient outcomes.